Malden

Island Hill, Malden Neighborhood

Island Hill offers a variety of housing options including duplexes, small and large apartment buildings, as well as single detached homes, many built before 1960 during a key development period. This neighborhood provides convenient access to public transit options such as the Orange Line's Oak Grove station and multiple nearby bus routes. Bicyclists benefit from numerous dedicated bike lanes throughout the area. Residents will find a supermarket, several restaurants, and a selection of coffee shops nearby for daily needs. The community features peaceful surroundings with low traffic noise and easy access to green spaces like Spot Pond Brook, promoting relaxation and comfort.

Island Hill has a character that caters to a fairly diverse group of people. Even though the atmosphere is not the most lively in this part of the city, its main streets can still be quite dynamic, and with the bars in nearby neighborhoods, it is very easy to find a place to grab a drink as they are generally located around the corner. Island Hill is reasonably quiet overall, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor. Getting to green spaces, such as Pine Banks Park, is very easy from the majority of locations within the neighborhood since there are a few of them nearby for residents to unwind in.

Highlights of Island Hill

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Fellsmere Park

Located right on the edge of Island Hill, Fellsmere Park is a popular green space with a scenic pond, walking trails, and playgrounds, serving as a beloved outdoor retreat for neighborhood residents and a hub for local events.

🏫 Forestdale School

Situated on Sylvan Street, Forestdale School is the neighborhood's highly regarded public elementary school, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere and providing quality education to Island Hill families.

🍽️ Fellsmere Deli & Market

This local market and deli on Lebanon Street is a neighborhood staple for quick bites, fresh sandwiches, and grocery essentials, making it a convenient spot for Island Hill residents looking for a taste of home close by.

🛒 Cornerstone Shopping Plaza

Located just off the intersection of Lebanon and Highland Avenues, this compact shopping area includes a diverse array of local shops and services, providing Island Hill with practical, everyday conveniences and dining options within walking distance.

🚴 Highland Avenue Greenway

Running along the edge of Island Hill, this urban greenway features a serene walking and biking trail that connects the neighborhood to nearby parks and communities, offering scenic commutes and recreational opportunities for residents.

Island Hill

This September in Island Hill

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2026

Malden Farmers Market

Malden City Hall Plaza • 3:00 PM

A weekly Wednesday market just minutes from Island Hill—great for picking up fresh local produce and supporting community vendors.

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September 14, 2026

Malden Community Gathering

Chinese Culture Connection (CCC Office), 75 Pleasant Street, Suite 403 • 10:00 AM–12:00 PM

A welcoming weekly gathering to connect with neighbors, enjoy snacks, games like chess and learn about local resources—perfect for Island Hill residents seeking community.

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September 26, 2026

Bread of Life Annual Walk Fundraiser

Bread of Life, 54 Eastern Avenue • 12:00 PM

A 3-mile family-friendly walk supporting local food security programs—accessible and meaningful for Island Hill residents who want to give back while enjoying the outdoors.

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September 28, 2026

SeptemberFest

City Hall Plaza • 1:00 PM–5:00 PM

A new family-friendly festival celebrating Malden’s diversity with food and fun, just steps from Island Hill—great for community spirit and local culture.

September 11, 18, 25, 26, 2026

Live Music at FACES Brewing

FACES Brewing, Malden • 8:00 PM

Evening concerts featuring bands like Drag the River (Sept 11), The Lotts (Sept 18), Headstay/pay.phones/Warrens (Sept 25), and KCUF/The Bad Ups/Massive Nightmares (Sept 26)—a short ride away for music lovers in Island Hill.

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September 19, 2026 (indoors Sept 17 & outdoors Sept 19)

Intro to Birding Course

Idle Hands Brewery (indoors) and The Fells (outdoors)

A two-part—and affordable—beginner birding class with an indoor session at Idle Hands and outdoor experience at nearby Fells, ideal for nature enthusiasts living in Island Hill.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Island Hill

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Island Hill

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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