popular places to visit in massachusetts

52 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Massachusetts

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: October 16, 2023

Massachusetts has a long and storied history.

It is one of the original colonies of America, making it among 13 states to have that honor, and was the landing grounds of the Pilgrims and the Mayflower.

Named after the Massachuset tribe, a name that literally translates to “large hill”, it would go on to be one of the sparks of the American Industrial Revolution thanks to its textile mills.

Known by the nickname “The Bay State”, Massachusetts is relatively small but packs a punch with its many historical, natural, coast, and art-related attractions.

As a commonwealth, it has played a huge role in the culture, commercial development, and scientific advancement of America.

It’s a many-faceted location, famous for everything from its roles in the temperance, abolitionist, and transcendentalist movements to its invention of sports like volleyball and basketball.

With all the Massachusetts attractions available, it’ll be hard to narrow them down to a few for your vacation!

To help you out, here are our picks for 52 fun things to do and places to visit in Massachusetts.

Table of Contents

1. Minute Man National Historical Park

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The Minute Man National Historical Park is one of the most interesting places to see in the state of Massachusetts, especially for those interested in history.

Its designation is to mark the route that the British marched that would initiate the beginning of the American Revolutionary War.

Spanning 970 acres, it was established in 1959 and is cared for by the National Park Service.

Aside from just the 5 miles of Battle Road Trail, the Minute Man National Historical Park provides plenty of fascinating locations.

This includes Hartwell Tavern, which is an 18th-century restored tavern that occasionally showcases programs in living history.

There is also a monument at the site of Paul Revere’s capture, a restored colonial landscape, North Bridge where the British and the Colonies battled, and a set of ranger programs that provide education on the war through reenactments, demonstrations, and tours.

Address: 250 N Great Rd, Lincoln, MA 01773, United States

2. Museum of Fine Arts

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The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the very best and most extensive art museums on the planet.

It first opened in Copley Square in Boston, Massachusetts in 1876.

At the time, it only housed about 5,600 works.

Then, in 1909, it moved to a new location in the city, Huntington Avenue, and it has since grown to contain close to 500,000 individual pieces on display!

A popular location, more than one million people visit it every year.

At the Museum of Fine Arts, you’ll find works from all sorts of eras, locations, and genres, ranging from modern contemporary art all the way back to ancient Egyptian works.

Notable masterpieces by the likes of John Singleton Copley, Money, Picasso, and Rembrandt are on display.

The Museum of Fine Arts is always growing.

In 2010, a new wing called the Art of the Americas wing was opened to showcase the country’s art from ancient and modern times alike.

In 2013, galleries specifically for African, European, and Asian art opened, too.

If you’re an art-lover wondering what to do in Massachusetts, you’ll find your haven of fun in this museum!

Address: 465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States

3. Boston Common

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The Boston Common was created in 1634 and has enjoyed a storied history.

In 1768, it became a site for an encampment of the British Redcoats, who remained for eight years, and following that, the likes of George Washington, General Lafayette, and John Adams came here to celebrate the independence of America.

In the 1860s, it was the site of anti-slavery meetings and recruitment for the Civil War.

In World War I, victory gardens were planted, and in World War II, its iron fences were used as metal scraps.

Throughout the 20th century, it was used to promote commercial aviation by Charles Lindbergh, and civil rights and anti-Vietnam War rallies were held here, too.

With all of that history, the Boston Common was deemed important to be enhanced and preserved in 1970 by the Friends of the Public Garden.

It is now one of Massachusetts’ fun and free things to do.

Address: 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111, United States

4. The Freedom Trail

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The Freedom Trail of Boston, Massachusetts is a winding, three-mile trail that contains several of the country’s most crucial historical locations and sites ranging from cultural icons to churches and from museums to ships.

It is for this reason that it is widely considered one of the key places to visit in Massachusetts not to be missed.

A total of 16 monuments can be seen throughout the trail, which is easy to navigate thanks to its large marks of medallions and clear red bricks.

The Freedom Trail spans from the Navy Yard in Charlestown all the way to the Boston Common and showcases much of the city, state, and country’s wealth of history.

Address: Boston, MA, United States

5. Fenway Park

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Fenway Park is the home of the famous Boston Red Sox and has been an iconic location since its opening date in 1912.

For fun-loving sports and baseball fans, a trip to the renowned stadium is one of the main things to do in Massachusetts.

It is an important part of Boston city and has changed very little since it first welcomed spectators, adding even more to its historic value.

Fenway Park is the oldest major league baseball stadium in the world and is almost a legend at this point.

On a tour of the grounds, you’ll get to see Pesky’s Pole, the 37-foot-tall Green Monster over leftfield, and its huge seating area with a capacity of approximately 38,000.

Even if you’re not big into baseball, the old-fashioned charm of this Massachusetts icon and the fascinating historical knowledge bestowed on its tours makes it well worth a visit.

Address: 4 Jersey St, Boston, MA 02215, United States

6. Martha’s Vineyard

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Martha’s Vineyard may be one of the most renowned and beautiful places to go in Massachusetts, so it’s no wonder that it’s also considered among the best.

It is an island in the Cape Cod area and is often simply called The Vineyard.

It is only accessible by ferry, but the trip is very much worth it.

It is also the 57th biggest island in America and is often given the nickname Hollywood East.

There are many different spots to explore and check out at Martha’s Vineyard, and almost all of them offer gorgeous views of the sunset.

Unspoiled wild areas are stunning, lighthouses are breathtaking, and the dining and shopping options will keep you occupied.

There are even weekly entertainment options!

One part of Martha’s Vineyard that you shouldn’t miss are its gingerbread houses in Oak Bluffs.

They are Victorian-style cottages carefully arranged together in a style that feels like they’re made from candy ala Hansel and Gretel.

There are a total of 300 houses of this kind in the area as well as a fascinating Cottage Museum to peruse.

Address: MA, United States

7. Norman Rockwell Museum

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The Norman Rockwell Museum , as its name suggests, is a museum attraction dedicated to showcasing a collection of art by Norman Rockwell.

It is one of the top locations to view these masterpieces, boasting the world’s most iconic and biggest collection of its kind.

With a whopping 998 original paintings and drawings by the artist, all of which are authentic, it’s a fantastic option among Massachusetts attractions for fans of his work.

The museum was opened in 1969 and has grown to showcase art from similar artists to Rockwell and his contemporaries.

It also provides information on his contributions to pop culture and the wider society, as well as his impact on social commentary.

You’ll also get to view Rockwell’s studio, which moved from its original location in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, where he worked for 25 years until he passed away.

If you’re lucky, you may get to catch one of the special events that the Norman Rockwell Museum hosts every now and then!

Address: 9 Glendale Rd, Stockbridge, MA 01262, United States

8. Cape Cod National Seashore

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Cape Cod National Seashore is an absolute must see and is famous as one of the most romantic things to do in all of America.

Each summer, visitors flock to Massachusetts to enjoy the glory and beauty of the 43,607-acre National Park, which hosts more than 500 miles of stunning beaches throughout the coast of Cape Cod.

The Cape Cod National Seashore has ensured the protection of the coast over the years, so you can explore it in its unspoiled, natural form.

Going further into the area, you’ll find numerous ways to spend your time, including dining options, conservation spots, fun nightlife options, and peaceful quiet areas.

It’s a great getaway to check out this weekend!

Address: 99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667, United States

9. The House of the Seven Gables

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The House of the Seven Gables is one whose name you may recognize from the similarly titled 1851 novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne.

That’s because that book is based on the actual house in question, which is known as the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion.

It sits at Salem Harbor in Massachusetts, right on the water, and was built in 1668.

The House of the Seven Gables has a unique construction that includes a dark and atmospheric facade, numerous pointed gables that may have contributed to its name, and several chimneys.

Tours of the house showcase the history of the mansion while providing information on the life and work of Hawthorne, the background of the town of Salem, and the chance to go through a secret passage.

There’s also a softer, kinder story to The House of the Seven Gables and how it became one of the most well-known local tourist attractions.

It was founded as a museum by preservationist and philanthropist Caroline Emmerton who purchased the mansion in 1908 and fully restored it to preserve it for generations to come and provide funding for immigrant settlement programs.

Address: 115 Derby St, Salem, MA 01970, United States

10. Faneuil Hall

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Faneuil Hall , built in 1742, was once a teeming marketplace on the waterfront for 18th-century traders.

It was a common meeting point, a site of many revolutionary protests and speeches, and an icon of Massachusetts history.

Now, it has been renovated and changed many times over, providing a modern glimpse into the past!

As it once was, Faneuil Hall continues to host a market on its lower floor that is perfect for exploration and shopping.

The highest floor of Faneuil Hall is also home to the Ancient and Honourable Artillery Museum, where you’ll get to learn about military history via exhibits of armor, weapons, and artifacts.

The hall also boasts an assembly area, which spans two stories in height and is full of murals of Boston historical moments and political figures’ busts.

As a recreational location, Faneuil Hall is one of the best free things to do in Massachusetts, and it’s a central hub for relaxing.

The fact that it’s steeped in history makes it even more interesting.

Don’t forget to get a good look at the Faneuil Hall weathervane, built when the building was first made in 1742.

It is a huge 38-pound grasshopper of copper that also doubles as a time capsule!

Address: 4 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109, United States

11. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

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The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum of Massachusetts began as a location to house the art of Isabella Steward Gardner herself.

A three-floor space, it is home to over 2,500 different artifacts of all kinds, ranging from paintings to textiles and from manuscripts to sculptures, all collected from across the planet.

It is the story of Isabella that has intrigued so many.

After losing her one child to pneumonia and discovering she could no longer have children, Isabella secluded herself in her room and refused to leave, traumatized and depressed by the news.

When her husband finally coaxed her out and took on a trip through Europe, Isabella’s zest for life returned, and she fell in love with beautiful and strange works of art from all the fun locations she visited.

Eventually, Isabella had filled warehouses with all sorts of objects from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, and she built Fenway Court in order to house them.

In 1903, she opened the home to the public, where it would eventually take the name of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Her life and times, however, remained very much a mystery, and she burned many private journals and letters before passing away.

Today, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is also famous for a different reason, too.

In 1990, two men pretending to be police officers successfully stole collectibles and art totaling over $500 million in value.

The theft is yet unsolved, remaining the biggest of its kind in history to go unanswered.

Address: 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115, United States

12. Plimoth Plantation

Plimoth Plantation , or Plimoth Patuxet Museum, is a living museum that offers fascinating insight into Colonial life, making it one of the best vacation spots to visit .

It was established in 1947 by Henry Hornblower II, who grew up in Boston but had been interested in the history of Plymouth thanks to his summer vacations in the area.

The living museum is a recreation of 1627 Massachusetts and showcases the everyday lives of 17th-century Wampanoag and English peoples.

Hornblower performed many excavations in the area where the original colonies lived in Plymouth, and he decided to share his findings through the museum.

At first, Plimoth Plantation’s only things to see were a part of English cottages, but this has since grown.

Now, the living museum includes a replica of a Wampanoag village, a replica of the Mayflower, barns, a water-powered mill, and a whole colonial village!

As you walk through Plimoth Plantation, you’ll meet an array of period-dressed actors interacting with the museum’s buildings and living their daily lives as part of a 17th-century maritime and farming community.

Houses are surprisingly realistic with heritage livestock, kitchen gardens, and old-fashioned objects.

Address: 137 Warren Ave, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

13. Old Sturbridge Village

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Old Sturbridge Village is one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts if you want to truly step back in history.

Here, you’ll get to set foot in a land that recreates the rural life of New Englanders from the 1790s to the 1830s.

It is the biggest outdoor history museum not just in Massachusetts, but in the entire Northeast.

At Old Sturbridge Village, you’ll get to view, enter, and explore more than 40 genuine buildings from the era across 200 acres of land.

This includes homes, trade shops, meetinghouses, a country store, a district school, a working farm, three water-powered mills, and a bank.

Actors in period costumes participate in the daily activities of people living in that era, performing acts like farming, blacksmithing, and working with real livestock.

Address: 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA 01566, United States

14. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

Arturo de Frias Marques , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is a marine sanctuary in Massachusetts Bay famous as a location for fun whale-watching.

Spanning 842 square miles, it was once a fishing ground and is now a protected area offering whale-watching tours in a highly diverse environment.

There are many other marine animals that you’ll spot at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

More than 50 of them are recognized and known humpbacks, but you’ll also see dolphins, seals, and more.

As far as things to do in Massachusetts go, a trip here is a wonderful way to experience wildlife in its truest form in a safe and mindful manner.

Address: 175 Edward Foster Rd, Scituate, MA 02066, United States

15. Peabody Essex Museum

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The Peabody Essex Museum was created in 1799 as a means of promoting art and culture on an international scale.

It celebrates the creativity of artists and cultures by stewarding, interpreting, collecting, and displaying a wide range of different artifacts and objects.

Without a doubt, it’s one of the best points of interest for art aficionados visiting Massachusetts.

The Peabody Essex Museum was also one of America’s first-ever museums to collect international cultural and artistic artifacts and items.

Its collections change now and then, hosting historic and contemporary works alike.

Genres and cultures range from Maritime to Oceanic, from Native American to Asian, and from American to African.

It also boasts historic American and Chinese houses and an archival library.

Address: 161 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States

16. Hammond Castle Museum

The Hammond Castle Museum was once the home of the resourceful John Hayes Hammond Jr.

As a young boy, his wealthy father brought him to visit the laboratory of Thomas Edison himself, and Hammond was fascinated by him and hounded him with questions.

That would lead to Hammond being taken under Edison’s wing, and he would go on to become an inventor with the second most patents for inventions filed, right behind Edison.

Hammond, who would earn the title (that should technically belong to Nikola Tesla) “the father of remote control”, was passionate about history, European culture, and travel.

In 1926, he would begin construction on a home in New England, Massachusetts, a medieval-type castle with a drawbridge, War room, indoor pool, renaissance dining room, round library, and secret passages.

He named it Abbadia Mare and it looked out over the Atlantic Ocean, with a facade inspired by French chateaus and Gothic cathedrals.

Hammond would bring home parts of buildings (or ideas of their designs) from his travels, and they would form unique parts of his home, such as his courtyard garden room.

A wine merchant’s home, a meat market, and more would be collected.

He also filled the home with fun and eccentric items, like a church archway made from Mt. Vesusvius’ carved lava, a skull of a sailor who worked with Christopher Columbus, a nude statue of himself, and an eight-story-tall pipe organ in the Great Hall.

Today, the Hammond Castle Museum is a celebration of the man’s life and times, the unique architecture of the home, and the laboratory where he worked.

It is one of the most fascinating Massachusetts attractions to visit, with stunning artifacts, lovely views of the ocean, and picturesque gardens to explore.

Address: 80 Hesperus Ave, Gloucester, MA 01930, United States

17. Tanglewood

Tanglewood is a key destination for entertainment in Massachusetts.

Located in Lenox, it was once the Tappan family estate, given as a gift to the Boston Symphony and Serge Koussevitzky as thanks for their agreement to holding outdoor concerts for locals.

The festival’s largest audience was collected the following year in 1937, leading to what is now considered the first-ever Tanglewood concert.

Tanglewood remains a site for musical festivities annually, bringing in over 350,000 visitors each time it is hosted.

With many genres and performers putting on incredible shows and numerous events held throughout the year, it’s an absolute must do!

Address: 297 West St, Lenox, MA 01240, United States

18. Nantucket Whaling Museum

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The Nantucket Whaling Museum of Massachusetts is housed in a building that was once a candle factory in the 19th century, but the museum dates all the way back to 1929.

It was restored to glory in 2005 and serves as a center for education on the history of local whaling endeavors.

It has been an American Association of Museums-accredited institute since 2008 and has become one of the top local tourist attractions.

There are many fascinating attractions at the Nantucket Whaling Museum, including a sperm whale skeleton spanning 46 feet in length that hangs from the museum’s ceiling, a showing of Ric Burns’ film Nantucket, an 1881 restored tower clock, baskets from lightships, scrimshaw, paintings, portraits of seafarers, and decorative arts.

There is also a unique 1849 Fresnel lens taken from Sankaty Head Lighthouse, some twine that was made out at sea, a chest salvaged from a shipwreck, and a range of documents from the infamous whaleship Essex.

Address: 13 Broad St, Nantucket, MA 02554, United States

19. The Mapparium

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The Mapparium is a three-story feature of the Mary Baker Eddy Library, which is a Blue Star Museum.

In the early 1930s, it was the new headquarters of the Christian Science Publishing Society.

The society of the Christian Science Monitor commissioned Massachusetts architect Chester Lindsay Churchill to create the grand building, aiming to rival and one-up the similarly grand building of the New York Daily News.

The result was nothing short of magnificent, and the Mapparium was a part of it.

The globe is an inside-out creation of stained glass, bisected with a glass walkway.

It provides a way of looking at the Earth’s surface without the distortion you usually see on globes due to the spherical shape that shifts perspective.

The Mapparium does away with this, providing a completely accurate and very fun way of seeing the world!

At the time of its creation, the Mapparium was lit up with hundreds upon hundreds of lamps.

Today, those have been swapped with LEDs.

With the relative size of the continents and their positions being correct, you’ll get to truly see the huge expanse of Africa and the close proximity of Asia , Europe , and North America to the North Pole.

Do note that the political boundaries are a little out of date, though, as the Mapparium was finished in 1935!

Another fascinating feature of the Mapparium is its acoustics, created due to the perfect sphere that it is.

When you stand in the middle, your voice can be amplified and reflected back to you in 360-degree surround sound.

You can also clearly hear even the quietest whispers from the other end of the bridge in a whispering gallery effect!

Address: 200 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States

20. The Witch House of Salem

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The Witch House of Salem wasn’t always known by that name.

It was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, one of the judges who convicted “witches” during the 1692 and 1693 witchcraft trials of Salem.

His decisions were based on visions and dreams.

As a civic leader and local magistrate, he had been called to investigate the surging accusations of witchcraft in Salem and communities near it.

He served the Court of Oyer and Terminer.

The macabre, unfair history of the Salem witch trials is very much a part of Massachusetts’ cultural backdrop.

Corwin lived in the home that is now the Witch House of Salem for four decades, and the family would keep the house until the middle of the 19th century.

Eventually, the house was turned into the museum that it is now, focusing on the 17th century and the history of the horrific witchcraft trials.

Address: 310 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States

21. Lizzie Borden House

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The Lizzie Borden House is one of the key things to see for ghost-hunters and fans of the strange and macabre.

Located in Massachusetts’ Fall River, it was once the home of Andrew and Abby Borden and their children and stepchildren, including Lizzie, their youngest.

When the couple was found dead, killed by a hatchet, Lizzie was the main suspect, though she was acquitted in the subsequent trials.

Now, the Lizzie Borden House is exactly what it says it is: a bed and breakfast and a publicly open museum.

Inside, you’ll find a recreation of the crime scene, some dismal and bizarre memorabilia recreated from the night, and the rooms of Lizzie and her parents.

The aforementioned rooms are available to lodge in, too, though you must beware – reports say the building, especially those rooms, is extremely haunted!

Address: 230 2nd St, Fall River, MA 02721, United States

22. Forest Hills Cemetery

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Forest Hills Cemetery is a Victorian-era graveyard located in Jamaica Plain, Boston, Massachusetts.

It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Spanning 275 acres, it is arranged to surround a lovely lake and is a calming mix of natural and man-made features.

Graves are often decorated with sculptures and mausoleums tend to have interesting architectural designs.

Contemporary sculptures dot the grounds, adding more whimsical and fun elements to a normally somber environment.

One of the more interesting features of Forest Hills Cemetery is its miniature village, which was created in 2006 by Christopher Frost.

Each building is designed as a replica of a home of an individual buried in the cemetery.

This creates a very diverse set of mini buildings that is, itself, one of the fascinating places to visit in Massachusetts.

The cemetery is also the final resting ground of many interesting historical figures like Eugene O’Neill, Anne Sexton, and E.E. Cummings.

Address: 95 Forest Hills Ave, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130, United States

23. The Clark Art Institute

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The Clark Art Institute is both an art museum and a research location for higher education, and it is one of the only of its kind in the world.

It was created from a founding gift of art collected by Francine and Sterling Clark.

The Clark Art Institute contains a large collection of works from European and American sources.

Drawings, sculptures, photographs, paintings, decorative arts, prints, oil sketches, and even silver are on display, with Renaissance, Academic, French Impressionist, and many more genres.

For those interested in art, this is one of the most engaging things to do in Massachusetts.

Address: 225 South St, Williamstown, MA 01267, United States

24. Bridge of Flowers

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The Bridge of Flowers is one of the most unique and one-of-a-kind places to go in Massachusetts.

It was once owned by the Shelburne Falls & Colrain Street Railway, which closed in 1927.

After it closed, members of the community decided to change the trolley bridge into a lovely landmark for all to enjoy.

The railway’s remnants were then largely moved to what would become the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum, which you can also visit near the bridge.

The Bridge of Flowers boasts a length of 400 feet and is covered in carefully planted flowers that bloom beautifully and constantly from April to October.

Over 500 kinds of flora, including flowers, shrubs, and vines, hug the walkway’s sides.

They are labeled with their names and make for a romantic walk!

Address: 22 Water St, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, United States

25. Danvers State Hospital

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Danvers State Hospital was used as the inspiration for Batman’s Arkham Asylum and for the horror tales of H.P Lovecraft – which makes it especially fun to know that it is now a complex of condominiums!

Despite its current iteration, the hospital is still one of the chief Massachusetts attractions for fans of the unusual and obscure.

In 1878, Danvers State Hospital was opened as a hospital for mental health.

It was originally a kind place, providing care to more than 600 patients with a compassionate and caring view of mental health.

Unfortunately, by the 1930s, the hospital had become overcrowded, and its intimidating gothic appearance became more and more a reflection of the cruelty, inhumanity, and disrepair occurring within.

Even with expansions, the Danvers State Hospital was only ever meant to hold 1,500 people, but by the 1940s it had more than 2,000 of them.

Inhumane treatments began being used here.

Thankfully, the 1960s saw the introduction of community mental healthcare and alternative treatments that allowed the hospital to see less use.

By 1992, the hospital was shut down.

Though the condominium in its place today barely references this morbid part of Massachusetts’ history, the hospital cemetery remains onsite.

Address: 1101 Kirkbride Dr, Danvers, MA 01923, United States

26. Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery

Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery

Looking for some must-see cool places in Massachusetts?

Head on down to Salem and check out Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery , a movie monster museum!

Inside, you’ll find a spooky gallery that houses pieces of James Lurgio’s private collection of monstrous memorabilia and artifacts.

Throughout the creepy halls of Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery, you’ll see numerous creations of the figures of movie monsters, full-sized and made with materials like silicone, resin, and latex.

Approximately 50 characters, arranged chronologically, can be viewed, from Nosferatu to the monsters of Fright Night and from The Exorcist’s Linda Bliar to Alfred Hitchcock’s creations.

Address: 217 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970, United States

27. Ruins of Schoolmaster Hill

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Schoolmaster Hill was first the home of Ralph Waldo Emerson, then a public park created by Frederick Law Olmstead.

Its initial design included a terrace leading to a shelter, which then connected to vine-covered steps and a multi-use building.

The park structure eventually was redesigned again in order to provide a home for park facilities, and then it was turned into a golf clubhouse.

No matter its iteration, though, it always offered lovely views.

In the 1930s, the building was destroyed by a fire and left in ruins.

Approximately 60 years later, it was partially restored by the Boston Parks Department and the Franklin Park Coalition, and that is how it looks till now.

If you love exploring ruins and are wondering where to visit, the ruins of Schoolmaster Hill are among the best you’ll find in Massachusetts, complete with beautiful panoramas of the surrounding area.

Address: 1 Circuit Dr, Boston, MA, United States

28. The Museum of Russian Icons

The Museum of Russian Icons

Did you know that the world’s biggest collection of Russian icons outside of Russia is right in Massachusetts, right near the Central Park of Clinton?

It is here that the Museum of Russian Icons lives, containing over a thousand icons spanning six centuries of the Russian tradition of sacred paintings, as commonly used in their Orthodox religion.

The Museum of Russian Icons houses the collection of a local businessman and engineer named Gordon B. Lankton, who started the collection in the 1980s.

Houses within a mill building and a former police station building, both dating back centuries, it is the only American facility dedicated to the display of these unique icons.

The icons in question are paintings of religious images, often of scenes from the lives of the saints or of the Mother of God.

Some are covered with silver or gold, most are painted on wood, some have gold leaf decorations, and some use narrative panels to tell a story.

Almost all of them are anonymously painted and a fair few date back to the 10th century.

It’s a unique spot that you must add to your list of what to do!

Don’t forget to check out the Tea Room to sample Russian snacks, drinks, and chocolates.

Address: 203 Union St, Clinton, MA 01510, United States

29. New England Aquarium

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The New England Aquarium is situated on the waterfront of Boston, Massachusetts.

Spanning a whopping 75,000 square feet, it is a fun location boasting over 550 species of marine fauna totaling 20,000 individual animals.

It is also the biggest aquarium in the New England region, welcoming around 1.3 million guests annually.

At the New England Aquarium, you’ll find small crabs, sharks, turtles, seadragons, stingrays, eels, barracudas, and more.

Exhibits include the Caribbean reef, the Edge of the Sea touch tank, and the huge coral reef-filled Giant Ocean Tank that reaches four stories in height.

There is also an IMAX theater that features all sorts of nature-themed short films!

Address: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, United States

30. Adams National Historical Park

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The Adams National Historical Park was the home location of two American presidents and their descendants, continuing to serve this purpose until 1927.

The park was created in order to preserve the iconic homes of President John Adams and four generations of his family, with additional goals of fostering patriotism, representing the history of the family and the country, and educating the public.

President John Adams had always dreamed of living a simple life as a farmer, and after his stint as president, he created Peace Field, which was his farmstead.

You can view the farmstead here at Adams National Historical Park, as well as his childhood home.

Both of these sites do an amazing job displaying the complex life and mental struggles of the late president.

The park is undoubtedly one of the best things to see in the city of Massachusetts, especially for lovers of history.

Address: 133 Franklin St, Quincy, MA 02169, United States

31. Mount Greylock

Mount Greylock in Adams is one of the top places to visit in Massachusetts – mostly because it’s the highest point in the whole state at 3,491 feet!

Offering gorgeous views of the surrounding area, including five states that flank this one, you’ll have your breath taken away by the panoramic scenery.

Mount Greylock is also famously crowned by the Massachusetts War Memorial Tower, which hosts a beacon that is lit up every night and can be seen from a whopping 70 miles away.

A hotel also waits at the summit of Mount Greylock, made by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Looking for some high-end fashion fun in Massachusetts?

Seek out Bodega , a carefully hidden location behind a secret door of an unassuming corner store.

From the outside, that corner store just looks like a generic convenience shop filled with non-perishables, household basics, and snacks.

But when you journey to the back, you’ll find an old Snapple machine that you’ll never guess hides one of the coolest things to do in Massachusetts.

Slide the machine and you’ll find out that it’s actually a secret door concealing the true nature of Bodega.

Bodega is filled with shelves that hold skate fashion and street fashion from high-end brands, and it’s a well-kept secret that is advertised by word of mouth!

Address: 6 Clearway St, Boston, MA 02115, United States

33. Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

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The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area is a selection of varying islands and a part of the Massachusetts mainland that is preserved by the National Park Service.

The harbor itself has a lengthy history, used as a shipping port in the Colonial era.

Renovation in the 20th century turned it into an ideal getaway, which is what it can be for you and your family this weekend!

Among the points of interest at the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area are Harborwalk, an interactive walkway that brings you through numerous beaches, parks, and cafes, and a number of hiking trails that offer fishing and picnicking spots.

There is also Boston Light, America’s oldest lighthouse, within the recreational area’s space on Little Brewster Island.

Address: 191w Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109, United States

34. Aquinnah Cliffs

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The Aquinnah Cliffs of Massachusetts, also known as the Gay Head Cliffs , are situated within Martha’s Vineyard on the island’s western side, in a Wampanoag reservation.

The cliffs of clay are millions of years old, created by glaciers.

The result is a mix of orange and red clay merging with sand that produces a stunning rainbow effect.

It’s pretty easy to get up-close to the Aquinnah Cliffs.

Following trails on Moshup Beach will get you right to them, and you can climb to their peak to view panoramas of the Elizabeth Islands and the Gay Head Light.

As one of the protected Massachusetts attractions, you’re advised to abide by any rules in place at the Aquinnah Cliffs!

The Wampanoag tribe that owns the land believes that the red clay of the cliffs is the result of legendary Wampanoag founder Moshup, who is said to have bashed whales against the cliffs to feed his people.

Address: 31 Aquinnah Cir, Aquinnah, MA 02535, United States

35. Bash Bish Falls

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Bash Bish Falls , located in the southwestern region of Massachusetts, is easily one of the most beautiful places to see in the US .

A gorgeous waterfall with a backdrop of legends and eerie tales of danger, it falls 80 feet into a shallow creek and pool.

The spot from the peak of the waterfall is one of the state’s most beautiful places, providing a stunning view that stretches all the way into Taconic State Park in New York.

Where does the name “Bash Bish Falls” come from?

Well, a macabre legend states that a Mohican woman named Bash-Bish was tied to a canoe and sent falling down the falls after she was accused of adultery, despite insisting on her innocence.

The legend also says that her daughter, White Swan, threw herself from the falls when she was unable to conceive a child.

Though many consider Bash Bish Falls a must-do, it’s also a location that should be approached with caution.

25 individuals have passed away due to jumping or falling from the peak of the falls to the shallow pool below.

Walkways are fitted with steel cables to try to keep that danger at bay, and many consider the beauty of the natural land to be worth the mild risk.

And it is, as long as you’re careful!

36. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Museum

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Museum , located in Cambridge, is one of the state’s chief tourist attractions for those interested in technology.

It collects, preserves, and showcases many different items that are related to its titular university, providing education and historical tales of MIT and its role in modern development.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Museum is also home to a permanent collection of all sorts of machines made by Arthur Fanson.

Ganson was a former artist in residence at MIT and created several playful, whimsical, and personality-filled machines that perform all sorts of engaging, adorable, and intriguing tasks.

This includes machines that oil themselves, bounce non-stop, drag items, or perform strange and unusual tasks.

Address: 265 Massachusetts Ave, Building N51, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States

37. Brattle Book Shop

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The Brattle Book Shop is a fun location for bibliophiles who are visiting Massachusetts!

Situated in downtown Boston close to the Boston Common, it is tucked away between buildings of red brick and is an antiquarian bookshop.

Opened in 1825, it has been selling used books ever since and offers over 250,000 books, prints, postcards, and maps from different eras and genres.

The lowest two floors of the Brattle Book Shop are packed tightly with shelves of general use books.

The passageways between them are narrow, with step stools littered around for easy access to tall shelves.

The third floor boasts collectible and first-edition books that make for fascinating perusal.

And, of course, right outside the shop, you’ll find an open-air sale area filled with cheap books haphazardly filling bookshelves and racks!

Address: 9 West St, Boston, MA 02111, United States

38. Lexington Common National Historic Site

The Lexington Common National Historic Site , also known as the Battle Green, is a National Historic Landmark that is considered consecrated ground.

It is also one of America’s only locations where the US Flag can fly for 24 hours a day, as authorized by Congress.

It is here that, according to George Washington’s diary, the very first blood was shed in a 1775 battle against the British Regulars by the Minutemen, or 77 members of the Lexington militia.

A total of 10 Minutemen here were wounded, and eight lost their lives.

A number of monuments located throughout the Lexington Common National Historic Site make it both one of Massachusetts’ most scenic places and one of the key things to do in Massachusetts for history-lovers.

There is a bronze plaque here that marks the Belfry’s original location, placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1910 as well as a relief of the Battle of Lexington.

The most famous monument at the Lexington Common National Historic Site is the Minuteman Statue Battle Relief, a huge obelisk that was placed in 1799.

It marks one end of the Minuteman line.

The other end is marked by a boulder that is inscribed with an inspiring and famous quote by Captain John Parker.

Address: 1625 Massachusetts Ave, Lexington, MA 02421, United States

39. Boston Museum of Science

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The Boston Museum of Science is one of the best institutions of its kind in Massachusetts, boasting more than 700 items in its permanent exhibits.

It is one of the world’s biggest centers of its kind and covers subjects such as mathematics, science, and technology through educational awareness programs, exhibits, and reports.

With an engaging hands-on and interactive approach, the Boston Museum of Science is a fantastic location for children but it’s also equally appealing to adults.

It has a planetarium that puts on daily shows, a butterfly garden to marvel at, and even a Dakota fossil which is dated at 65 million years old.

Address: 1 Museum Of Science Driveway, Boston, MA 02114, United States

40. Harvard Museum of Natural History

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The Harvard Museum of Natural History is a collection of three different institutions merged into one huge facility, namely the Mineralogical and Geological Museum, the Museum of Comparative Zoology, and the Harvard Herbaria.

If you’re a science and history buff looking for where to go in Massachusetts, this museum is a great bet.

Harvard University has more than 21 million different specimens under its research programs at any given time, and over 12,000 of those specimens can be viewed at the Harvard Museum of Natural History.

This includes a fully assembled skeleton of a dodo bird, more than 3,000 different glass flowers used in botany lessons in the 19th and 20th centuries, and even a collection of human skulls on mounts.

Address: 26 Oxford St, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States

41. Museum of Modern Renaissance

Museum of Modern Renaissance

The Museum of Modern Renaissance is situated in Massachusetts’ Somerville, on a humble residential street.

It was once a masonic lodge and has been turned into a “Temple of Art” as a labor of love by Russian artists Nicholas Shaplyko and Ekaterina Sorokina.

Since its 2002 makeover, the Museum of Modern Renaissance is a lovely and whimsical space designed to resemble an Incan ruin from the front.

The inside’s ceilings and walls are filled with paintings of mythological and fresco-like nature in a style that the artists refer to as Mystical Realism.

Tours of the Museum of Modern Renaissance are hard to come by and have to be booked in advance, so plan in advance if you want to add this to your list of places to visit in Massachusetts.

Address: 115 College Ave, Somerville, MA 02144, United States

42. Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

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Pretty much everyone has heard of the Boston Tea Party, so why not learn even more about it at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum ?

This huge event in Massachusetts changed the course of American history.

The museum is all about reenacting that event so you can get up-close and personal with it and some full-scale 18th-century ship replicas!

The multi-sensory experience at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum includes interactive displays, historical interpreters, interesting artifacts, and a proper reenactment of events.

You’ll start at the Meeting House, where you’ll get to meet your host, Samuel Adams, and travel back to 1773.

Then, you’ll join a Son of Liberty and storm an 18th-century sailing vessel to join the destruction and overthrowing of tea into the same waters that all that tea was thrown into almost 250 years prior.

You’ll also get to fully explore the ship!

After that, the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum will perform a reenactment and debate of the actions following the tea destruction.

You’ll then be able to see and learn about the Robinson Tea Chest, which is the only one that survived the original Boston Tea Party.

Next, you’ll watch an award-winning documentary about the famous Midnight Ride of Paul Revere that sparked the American Revolution.

Finally, you’ll head to Abigail’s Tea Room to try some of the teas thrown overboard and eat some treats!

For a fully immersive experience, this is one of the top things to do in Massachusetts for sure!

Address: 306 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210, United States

43. Boston Children’s Museum

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The Boston Children’s Museum is the world’s second-oldest children’s museum, so it’s naturally one of the places to go with your children in Massachusetts.

It’s also one of the world’s most influential museums of its kind.

It opened in 1913 and was founded by the Science Teacher’s Bureau in order to promote the teaching of science and the fun exchange of ideas.

As a museum for engagement, the Boston Children’s Museum focuses on offering hands-on interactivity that allows kids to learn through play, curiosity, and imagination.

Its many topics include health and fitness, science, the arts, culture, and even environmental awareness.

Multiple programs are also held to promote subjects and themes like visual arts, literacy, math, and health.

Among other things, the Boston Children’s Museum is also one of the very few in the world to have a special collection – and, in fact, it has multiple.

These collections include ones on Natural History, Dolls and Dollhouses, Americana, Native American, Global Culture, and Japanese themes.

More than 50,000 items are on display throughout this collection.

It’s no surprise that the museum is also one of the world’s biggest of its kind with all that it has to offer!

Address: 308 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210, United States

44. Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden

Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden

The Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden was created by Lark Grey Dimond-Cates, a sculptor who had been chosen to design a series of Dr. Seuss character sculptures and a likeness of the author himself.

The project, which began in 1996, soon grew into one of the most whimsical Massachusetts attractions!

But Dimond-Cates wasn’t just any sculptor.

She was the stepdaughter of Dr. Seuss, whose real name was Ted Geisel.

She made statues out of bronze and set them in a garden in the middle of a quadrangle of the Springfield Museums.

These sculptures include Yertle the Turtle, The Grinch, the Lorax, the Cat in the Hat, and Sam-I-Am, among others.

The garden opened in 2002 and the sculptures are scattered all around it, providing a lovely way to spend a day in Massachusetts.

The surrounding museums, which include a museum dedicated to Dr. Seuss, provide additional enjoyment for guests.

Address: 21 Edwards St, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

45. Boston’s Old Burying Grounds

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If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind, creepy, and morbid stuff to do, taking a trip through Boston’s Old Burying Grounds will certainly fill that desire.

The oldest cemeteries in the city use deathly imagery on their headstones, such as death’s heads, skulls, and hourglasses, to remind the living of how fleeting life can be.

The design choice behind these headstones in Boston’s Old Burying Grounds stems back to Puritan times when settlers of this nature arrived in Boston in the early 1600s.

In the early years of their settlement in the area in 1630, about 700 Puritans would call this Massachusetts region their home, but harsh living conditions would lead to many fatalities in those young times.

The Puritan community believed in mortally upright and ascetic worldviews and was focused on hard work, piety, and education.

They banned extravagant forms of religious expression and had harsh, strict views on who they believed would be able to get to heaven.

In order to work with these harsh rules, headstones would use simple messages and generic but morbid symbols.

Over time, these design details would become a little more festive, and eventually, this tradition of careful morbidity would be lost to more elaborate headstones and rhyming verses.

The oldest of Boston’s Old Burying Grounds maintains a lot of the initial morbidity.

You can explore the King’s Chapel Burying Ground , the Granary Burying Ground , and more locations to see the crypts and final resting places of famous figures and random individuals alike.

Address: Tremont St, Boston, MA 02108, United States

46. Singing Beach

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Singing Beach is an interesting option among tourist attractions in Massachusetts.

It is located on the North Shore and is a great spot for relaxation and novelty this weekend.

But why is it called “Singing Beach”?

Well, its sand creates squeaky, creaking noises akin to some form of mildly melodic singing as it is jostled and moved by visitors, especially when it’s dry.

The singing of the sand isn’t entirely understood, but experts believe that it is a result of shear.

Shear is a phenomenon when one sand grain rubs against a layer underneath it.

It’s an extremely delicate process, and any organic matter, dust, or other forms of pollution can reduce sand friction enough to completely kill that singing sound.

Singing sand must be round, be between a width of 0.1 mm and 0.5mm, exist at specific humidity, and contain silica – and Singing Beach has sand that checks those boxes!

Address: 119 Beach St, Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA 01944, United States

Looking for more thrill outside Massachusetts? Why not visit Boston and Salem? If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Boston and some cool things to do in Salem, MA !

47. Medfield State Hospital

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Opened in 1892, Medfield State Hospital was an asylum for mentally ill patients for more than a century.

It was a self-sustaining community and institution and remained open all the way until 2003.

It stands out among Massachusetts’ Kirkbride asylums designed and built during the 1800s as it willfully avoided the imposing and intimidating atmosphere and went instead for a welcoming “Cottage Plan”.

The Medfield State Hospital was made up of 58 buildings made from brick throughout a big campus.

Its longevity and layout made it one of the best options for asylum treatment in its time.

It is also one of the few that, in this modern time, has not faced demolition or abandonment.

Instead, it has been open to the public during the day, letting curious visitors explore its grounds with no charge.

35 of the Medfield State Hospital’s original buildings remain now, and though entry is prohibited, the paths and grounds are all available as one of the free things to do in the state.

You may recognize some spots from films like Knives Out, Shutter Island, and The Box.

Medfield’s town government purchased the hospital at the end of 2014, and as of now, it’s unknown what plans they have for the historic building’s future.

Address: 1 Stonegate Dr, Medfield, MA 02052, United States

48. Cape Cod Rail Trail

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The Cape Cod Rail Trail , as its name suggests, follows the path of what was once a railway.

It is carefully paved and travels 22 miles through multiple different towns in Massachusetts’s southeastern area, specifically in the mid-Cape region from Wellfleet to Dennis.

If you’re looking for what to do that offers exercise while being easy to walk, this trail is a great bet.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail is very popular with joggers, walkers, hikers, horse riders, and cyclists, and it boasts a paved and unpaved section.

When snow falls, cross-country skiers may take to the trail, too.

No matter when you travel the trail, though, you’ll find a nice surrounding view, lots of stops on beaches, facilities, and rest locations, and even bike rental areas!

49. James P. Kelleher Rose Garden

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The James P. Kelleher Rose Garden is one of the top hidden gem locations that you’ll find in Boston.

It is neatly tucked away behind and past several more popular parks in the city’s downtown area.

Dating back to 1932, the garden is situated in the Back Bay Fens and is carefully protected by a tall hedge of yew, close to Fenway Park.

The James P. Kelleher Rose Garden creates the feeling of a secret garden and boasts more than 1,500 roses.

It was commissioned in an English Style by the extremely infamous James Michael Curley, a former Mayor of Boston, and was designed by local landscape architect Arthur Shurcliff.

At the time of its opening, the James P. Kelleher Rose Garden actually won an award for excellence from the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, but that award didn’t reflect public opinion.

Many locals even considered it gaudy, especially against the more natural, wild, and understated design of the parks of Olmsted.

Eventually (and thankfully), however, people would come to like the garden, and it is now a proud part of the city of Boston!

It is open from the middle of April to the end of October.

Address: 73 Park Dr, Boston, MA 02215, United States

50. Edgar Allan Poe Square

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Great author and poet Edgar Allen Poe was born in 1809 in Massachusetts, but his home was sadly demolished along with its street several decades ago as part of an urban development project.

200 years after he was born, a small plaza right across the street from that was renamed Edgar Allan Poe Square.

Since its creation in 2009, Edgar Allan Poe Square has lived at Charles and Boylston streets’ intersection, been marked by a sign and a statue of Poe adorned with symbols from his poetry.

The square also houses a building twenty years older than it which is dedicated to the author.

If you’re a fan of the author, the square and its statue are among the things to see to add to your list.

Address: 176 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116, United States

51. Ponyhenge

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Ponyhenge is a small part of a large pasture located in the Massachusetts town of Lincoln.

It is a true hidden gem located on private property but open to the public for visits and consists of a strange collection of plastic and metal ponies, rocking horses that are broken and damaged, and all sorts of other horse toys and items.

But how did Ponyhenge come to be?

In 2010, these equine curiosities began to arrive randomly and anonymously.

It all began with one single horse 15 miles out of Boston along Old Sudbury Road, all rusted and strange.

No one really knows for sure where it came from, but it spawned the arrival of more and more horses of all kinds – figures and figurines, hobby horses, rocking horses, and more.

Ponyhenge has only continued to grow, and no one seems to take any of them away.

Occasionally, the horses are arranged in rows, in circles, or in amusing configurations.

Other times, they’re scattered haphazardly about.

However you happen to stumble upon them, there’s no denying that this is one of the most bizarrely fascinating places to visit in Massachusetts.

Address: 47 Old Sudbury Rd, Lincoln, MA 01773, United States

52. Echo Bridge

Echo Bridge is a rather unique option among the things to do in Massachusetts.

Its construction finished in 1877 and it rests across Hemlock Gorge in Charles River, and, back when it was made, it was the country’s second-longest arch of masonry.

At the time, it was also an important part of the aqueduct of Newton Upper Falls and Needham.

Now, Echo Bridge doesn’t exactly bear these same honors, but it offers stunning views, architectural magnificence, and a rather interesting sound effect in its echo.

The anomaly of sound is an echo that provides a large number of reverberations.

A human voice may be reverberated up to 15 times, but something as sharp and loud as the shot of a gun may lead to a whopping 25 reverberations.

These amazing acoustics at Echo Bridge are a result of the sound waves bouncing between the arch of the bridge and the water beneath.

Some believe, however, that the arch is at the perfect angle to repeatedly direct sound back and forth within itself.

Whatever the case, it provides a four echo per second return and there’s a special platform built just for guests to test out the aural phenomenon during their Massachusetts trip!

Address: Newton, MA 02464, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a beautiful commonwealth and state.

As one of six New England states and the most populous in that group, it is bustling with life, diversity, culture, and history.

No matter what sort of hotspots you’d like to visit during your vacation to Massachusetts, you’re sure to find many that tickle your fancy!

Happy travels.

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Massachusetts

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 30, 2022

Art, music, colonial history, patriotic landmarks, shopping, idyllic beaches, laid-back islands, succulent seafood — Massachusetts has something for everyone. Take your pick from tourist attractions that range from classical music concerts by a world-class symphony orchestra to perfecting your tan on a pristine beach.

As one of the original 13 colonies, Massachusetts has preserved more than its share of historic landmarks from as far back as pilgrim days. But it's not all history — in Boston's vibrant Faneuil Hall Marketplace, you'll find fashions as new as tomorrow.

Landscapes are just as varied, and as you explore these must-see sights, you'll find rolling mountains, waves crashing on rocky shores, green pastures and farmlands, deep forests, and beautiful little postcard-perfect villages that Norman Rockwell immortalized in his paintings. To be sure of finding the best places to visit, plan your trip using this handy list of the top attractions in Massachusetts.

Freedom Trail

Faneuil hall, cape cod beaches, boston common and public garden swan boats, fenway park, harvard square and museums, museum of fine arts and the isabella stewart gardner museum, mayflower ii and plimoth patuxet museums, salem's historic houses, whale watch at stellwagen bank national marine sanctuary, museum of science, boston, old sturbridge village, tanglewood concerts, norman rockwell museum, uss constitution and bunker hill monument, minute man national historical park and lexington green, island life on martha's vineyard, historic deerfield, more things to see and do in massachusetts.

Some of Colonial America's most iconic landmarks mark Boston's three-mile Freedom Trail as it winds through the old city's narrow streets to connect 16 historic monuments and attractions. Follow the red brick line and brass medallions in the pavement, from the Visitor Center in the Boston Common all the way to the 54-gun frigate USS Constitution , "Old Ironsides," at the Charlestown Navy Yard .

Along the way, wander through two old burying grounds to find the graves of Paul Revere, John Hancock, and the first female to step off the Mayflower . The Old State House , Boston's oldest public building, was the scene of the infamous Boston Massacre, when five colonists were killed by British soldiers. A few steps off the Freedom Trail, at 1 Milk Street, is the birthplace of Benjamin Franklin , a site marked by a bust of the patriot, who was born here in 1706.

The trail's best-known attraction is Faneuil Hall , called the "cradle of liberty" for its role as the meeting-place of revolutionaries and later, of abolitionists. Along with a museum, it houses the stalls of Faneuil Hall Marketplace , which also includes three more long halls filled by pushcarts, food stalls, and shops.

Two more iconic places for sightseeing are in the lively Italian neighborhood, the North End : the 17th-century Paul Revere House and Old North Church , Boston's oldest and the one from whose steeple two lanterns were hung to signal the start of Paul Revere's famous ride.

Official site: https://www.thefreedomtrail.org/

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Boston

Built in 1740-42, Faneuil Hall was given to the city as a market hall by merchant Peter Faneuil. Along with a market, it was a place for public meetings well-used by colonists protesting British taxes and other grievances.

In the mid-19th century, it was the scene of anti-slavery meetings, rallies, and speeches. The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Museum on its top floor preserves paintings of battles, along with arms and uniforms.

True to its origins, the ground floor is filled with market stalls, which flow out into the three nearby market halls - Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market - to make up Faneuil Hall Marketplace . This entire area is almost always lively, filled with shoppers, buskers, tourists, and workers from nearby offices enjoying their lunches on the benches that line the wide promenades between the market halls. The halls themselves are filled with food stalls, pushcarts, shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Official site: www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com

Cape Cod is a long, curving peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic, protecting Cape Cod Bay with its northward curve. Most of its 560 miles of shoreline is long white-sand beaches , often backed by dunes of waving sea grass. Many of them are crowded in mid-summer, but there is enough sand for everyone (although not always enough parking for their cars).

Look for the more uncrowded beaches on the quieter north shore, along Route 6-A, near Sandwich or Brewster. Chatham and Orleans both have especially scenic white beaches on the Atlantic-facing shore. Cape Cod's beaches are among the most beautiful places to visit in Massachusetts .

Cape Cod National Seashore protects nearly the whole eastern coast of the Cape, keeping a 40-mile stretch of sand and dunes almost unchanged since the 1800s. Walk its white sands, spot nesting shorebirds, and follow the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail through its beautiful cedar woodlands.

Stop at the Salt Pond or Provincetown Visitor Centers for maps, information, and passes. Lifeguards are on duty at beaches near parking areas from late June through August.

Address: 99 Marconi Station Site Road, Wellfleet, Massachusetts

The Boston Common — along with the adjacent Public Garden — paints a large swath of green in the very heart of the city. Downtown streets border one end, Commonwealth Avenue and Back Bay the other. To one side is stately Beacon Hill; the Freedom Trail begins in the Common, the state house overlooks it.

The Common spans Boston's history, with the Central Burying Ground of 1756 at one corner and the next generation of Bostonians splashing in the Frog Pond in the summer, and skating on it in the winter.

The Public Garden, America's first botanical garden, is more formal in its design, with beds of flowers and an 1869 suspension bridge over the pond, beloved by locals and tourists for the charming Swan Boats that have glided across its surface since the 1870s. Don't think these are there just for kids - most of the smiling passengers are adults.

Address: Public Garden, Boston, Massachusetts

Official site: http://swanboats.com

With all the nostalgic appeal of an old-fashioned ballpark, Fenway Park is beloved not just by New Englanders and Red Sox fans, but by baseball fans everywhere. Little changed in appearance from its opening in the spring of 1912, Fenway Park still has its hand-operated scoreboard and the legendary Green Monster, the 37-foot green wall in left field.

While most other cities have built new stadiums in the city outskirts, Bostonians have kept the old tradition of an inner-city venue for its home team, even though it has the lowest seating capacity of any major league ballpark.

Tickets for one of the only 33,871 seats are usually scarce, but you can see the park on a lively tour that's fun even for tourists who are not baseball fans.

Address: 4 Yawkey Way, Boston, Massachusetts

Harvard University , one of the world's leading academic centers, is an attraction in itself, filled with historic buildings and exceptional museums. But its surroundings are just as appealing to visit, as the shops, restaurants, cafés, and bookstores around Harvard Square throb with activity at any time of year.

The Harvard Art Museums now combine three major collections, each of which formerly ranked as major U.S. art museums. Fogg Art Museum specializes in Italian early-Renaissance art, and the Busch-Reisinger concentrates on German and northern European Expressionist art, with works by Kandinsky and Klee. The Museum's Chinese jade and bronzes, Japanese prints, Indian art, and Greco-Roman antiquities comprise some of the finest collections in the world.

Four more world-class museums sit two blocks away on Oxford Street, Harvard's research collections displayed in the Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology , the Mineralogical Museum , the Museum of Comparative Zoology, and the Botanical Museum . The exceptional Native American exhibits show art and artifacts in the context of a living culture that changed as contact with Europeans increased.

The best known exhibits here, however, are the more than 3,000 glass flowers and plants, so realistic that it's hard to believe they are man-made. The secret of how these were made died with their creators, and the process has never been replicated. You can take lively free walking tours of the Harvard campus led by students.

Address: 32 Quincy Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Official site: http://hmnh.harvard.edu/

Two neighboring museums, both overlooking the green expanse of Boston's Fenway, trace fine and applied art from the ancient world to modern masters. The Boston Museum of Fine Arts is renowned for its collections of Impressionist paintings; Asian and Persian fine arts; and works from ancient Greece, Egypt, and the Middle East.

An entire American Wing displays outstanding collections of American paintings, decorative arts, folk art, furniture, silver, and design from pre-Columbian to Modernist.

A few steps away is the somewhat eccentric collection of Isabella Stewart Gardner, bequeathed as a museum, along with her Venetian-style palace in which these treasures are displayed. The more than 2,500 works range from paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer to exquisite handmade lace and medieval furniture. Behind her palace is a glass-encased building designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, creating spaces for music and contemporary art.

Museum of Fine Arts

• Address: 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts
• www.mfa.org

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

• Address: 280 The Fenway, Boston, Massachusetts
• http://www.gardnermuseum.org

In December 1620, separatists from the Church of England, called Pilgrims, landed at Plymouth after failing to reach their original destination in Virginia, making Plymouth the first permanent European settlement in New England.

You can step back into their world at the living history villages at Plimoth Patuxet Museums (formerly known as Plimoth Plantation). In the 17th-Century English Village, costumed interpreters (who never leave their 17th-century persona) re-create the experience of living in early colonial America as they go about daily tasks of gardening, building, cooking, and military training. Craftsmen use authentic tools to make objects common in the 17th century.

Plimoth Patuxet Museums also explore the lives and culture of Native Americans at the Patuxet Homesite , a re-creation of a Wampanoag village, where you'll see dwellings, gardens, and artifacts. Here, descendants of the area's first inhabitants demonstrate how their ancestors lived before and after the colonists' arrival.

Be sure to visit the full-scale reproduction of the Mayflower , Mayflower II , fresh from a four-year restoration and birthed at Plymouth Pier, to learn about the historic voyage from costumed guides representing the passengers and crew.

You can visit Plimoth Plantation on a day trip from Boston .

Address: 137 Warren Avenue, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Official site: www.plimoth.org

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Plymouth, MA

While early homes full of period furnishings are thick on New England soil, few places can offer the number, quality, and variety of those you can tour in the former China Trade port of Salem. What's more, they represent a wide range of Salem's history and culture, beginning with the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 and including the House of Seven Gables , immortalized in the book by Nathaniel Hawthorne, whose 1804 birthplace is also open.

The 1642 Witch House was the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, who presided at the witchcraft trials, and it's the only remaining building that's directly connected with the trials.

As the hub of the China Trade, it's not surprising that Salem streets are lined with homes built by men who grew rich in that era as captains or merchants. Two homes, the Hawkes and Derby houses, are part of the Salem Maritime National Historic Site.

Several others are part of the exceptional Peabody Essex Museum complex: the 1727 Crowninshield-Bentley House ; the 1684 John Ward House ; and the 1804 brick Gardner-Pingree House , whose interior preserves work by master builder Samuel McIntire.

The Peabody Essex Museum explores the China Trade, its participants, and their homes in its extensive collections, which include an entire original 18th-century home from China's Huizhou region, reassembled here and open to visitors.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Salem & Cape Ann

Among the top 10 whale-watching sites in the world, the Stellwagen Bank has one of the world's most biologically productive ocean environments. At this underwater plateau in the Atlantic, at the mouth of Massachusetts Bay, you may spot several different species of whale, along with Atlantic white-sided dolphins, harbor porpoise, seals, and other marine life.

More than 50 individual humpback whales have been identified and named by researchers, all dependable returnees each summer. Many of them are females that bring their new calves to Stellwagen Bank to feed in the food-rich waters and teach their calves to hunt.

You can board a whale watching tour in Gloucester or Provincetown, the closest harbors to the Stellwagen Bank, or from Boston or several other towns on Cape Cod. For the best experience, look for a company that offers trained naturalists to provide commentary during the trips and help identify species and explain their behavior.

This constantly innovating museum invites kids and adults to jump right in, with more than 700 interactive exhibits and activities that explore all realms of science, from the human body and electricity to Arctic exploration and dinosaurs.

The dramatic Lightning Show is an all-time crowd-pleaser, as it explores electricity and its powers, using the world's largest air-insulated Van de Graaff generator and Tesla coils that produce about half a million volts.

Throughout the huge facility hands-on exhibits are designed for all ages. Newer exhibits include an engineering design workshop and Project Vaccine, which explores how vaccines are developed and tested. The newest is the virtual Arctic Adventure , a digitally created immersive experience using ground-penetrating radar technology and ice core drills to explore the Arctic, its ice fields, and its wildlife.

Address: Science Park, Boston, Massachusetts

Official site: www.mos.org

One of the state's most visited tourist attractions, Old Sturbridge Village re-creates life in New England as it was in the early 1800s, in more than 40 historic homes, craft shops, stores, mills, and farm buildings brought from various places to this 200-acre site. Costumed interpreters demonstrate daily tasks of farmers, blacksmiths, housewives, and craftspeople, and offer hands-on activities for children.

A working farm demonstrates early farming and gardening, complete with back-bred livestock and heirloom plant varieties. You can also see two operating mills using water power to process wool and saw timber for buildings.

Address: 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, Massachusetts

Official site: https://www.osv.org/

The Boston Symphony Orchestra decamps in the summer to Lenox, in the heart of the Berkshires , where Tanglewood becomes a magnet for musicians and music lovers from late June through August. In the Koussevitzky Music Shed, Ozawa Hall, and other venues throughout the campus, various resident and guest musicians rehearse, learn, and perform.

The concerts vary from the full symphony orchestra to chamber groups and soloists, and from student groups, such as the Boston University Tanglewood Institute, to top-name performers like popular singer Tony Bennett and operatic soprano Renée Fleming.

The music of the BSO is often enhanced by the 120 voices of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus, and throughout the summer, the programs may include jazz pianists, string or wind quartets, Medieval music, contemporary works, opera, classics, and other forms and styles.

Free Fun Fridays are designed to appeal to the whole family, and Saturday morning rehearsals are open to the public by reserved ticket. Along with concert-style seating, audiences enjoy some of Tanglewood's most popular concerts seated on the well-manicured lawns.

Address: 297 West Street, Lenox, Massachusetts

Official site: http://www.bso.org

One of America's most beloved artists, Norman Rockwell lived and painted in the Berkshires for the last 25 years of his life, and his legacy is preserved here in the museum containing the world's largest collection of his original artworks. Rockwell is best known for his characterization of American life, especially in small towns, and for his representation of the country's ideals.

His ability to portray ordinary people and to convey nostalgia, gentle humor, and his deeply held concerns, such as civil rights and America's war on poverty, give his paintings warmth and tremendous appeal. Highlights of the collection are favorites from his Saturday Evening Post covers, the Four Freedoms, and Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas .

The Berkshire region has attracted artists, writers, and other creative figures since the early 19th century, and several of their homes and studios are open as tourist attractions, including those of Herman Melville, Edith Wharton, and Daniel Chester French.

Address: 9 Route 183, Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Official site: http://www.nrm.org

Two icons of American Independence combine to form the Boston National Historic Park in Charlestown. The three-masted wooden frigate USS Constitution , nicknamed Old Ironsides, is the oldest commissioned ship in the US Navy, launched in 1797. Still afloat and crewed, the ship is open to tourists. You can explore its decks, learn about its naval exploits, and go below to experience the cramped quarters where 18 th -century seamen lived and worked.

The USS Constitution Museum, also at the Charlestown Navy Yard, tells more of the ship's history in interactive exhibits. A short walk away, the Bunker Hill Monument is another important feature of the park, marking the site of the fort built by militiamen before the Battle of Bunker Hill. This is the site of the first pitched battle of the American Revolution.

Address: Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, Massachusetts

Official site: https://ussconstitutionmuseum.org

You can follow the route taken by the British regulars as they marched from Boston in a move that would begin the American Revolution. Battle Road is now part of Minute Man National Historical Park, which also includes North Bridge in Concord, where the Colonials engaged the British in battle. North Bridge Visitor Center shows artifacts, uniforms, and a historical film, and at the end of the bridge is Daniel Chester French's famous Minuteman statue .

At Battle Green in Lexington, where the very first shots were fired on April 19, 1775, stands another statue commemorating a Minuteman (they were called Minutemen because they were ready for battle at a minute's notice). On a boulder are inscribed Captain Parker's words to his men: "Stand your ground. Don't fire unless fired upon but if they mean to have a war let it begin here."

Reenactments of the battles here and at North Bridge in Concord are held each year on the anniversary. Begin at Minute Man Visitor Center to learn about the battles and Paul Revere's Ride to warn the colonists of the British advance.

Address: 174 Liberty Street, Concord, Massachusetts

Nowhere in the state can you experience a more idyllic laid-back island life than on Martha's Vineyard, only five miles off the southern coast of Cape Cod . You'll feel the island's relaxed vibe almost from the moment you board the ferry from Woods Hole or New Bedford.

"The Vineyard" has six small towns, miles and miles of beaches, lighthouses, weathered shingle houses, sand bluffs, protected waters for kayaking, and a plenty of ocean for sailing. In its low, rolling landscape, you'll find working farms with farm stands selling everything from just-picked strawberries to fresh eggs.

In its villages, which have a real year-round life of their own, locals mix easily with summer people, some of whose families have been coming here for generations. You may get a glimpse of some of their "cottages," as they refer to the posh estates built by wealthy New York and Boston families.

Oak Bluffs still has rows of little 19th-century "gingerbread" cottages from its days as a Methodist Camp meeting site, along with one of the oldest merry-go-rounds, the Flying Horses Carousel . Edgartown is a bit more sedate, with white clapboard buildings lining tree-shaded streets. The oldest is Vincent House , built in 1672 and now a museum.

Board the Chappy On-Time Ferry to Chappaquiddick , an even smaller island with beautiful protected beaches and the outstanding Mytoi Japanese garden.

The remarkable history of the Pioneer Valley village of Deerfield is told in its impressive collection of well-preserved colonial and Federal period homes and at the 14 houses of Historic Deerfield and the Flynt Center of Early New England Life .

Especially outstanding are the collection of American quilts ; the 1824 Federal Wright House , with its collection of Chippendale furniture; and the Asa Stebbins House , which contains a unique arched doorway and notable collection of wall coverings.

Historic Deerfield's houses and galleries contain more than 27,000 objects made or used in America from 1650 to 1900, one of the largest collections anywhere. Helen Geier Flynt Textile Gallery alone holds one of the finest collections of early American textiles and costumes in any museum, and frequent programs explore their history and techniques. Throughout the season are demonstrations of early American skills, crafts, and cooking.

Address: 84B Old Main Street, Deerfield, Massachusetts

Official site: www.historic-deerfield.org

Where to Go near Boston: Many of the best places to visit in Massachusetts , including the active seaport of New Bedford with its maritime sites, are easy day trips from Boston. Other parts of the state, including the beautiful Berkshire hills to the west, are perfect destinations for weekend getaways . Closer to Boston, the lively and historic city of Portsmouth is just across the border in New Hampshire.

Where to Go for Sea and Sand: New England's favorite seaside escape route begins south of Boston, where top-rated sandy beaches surround scenic Cape Cod . Or hop a ferry in Hyannis and spend time exploring the lovely island of Nantucket .

More on Massachusetts

Western Mass.

Cape Cod & The Islands

Central Mass.

North of Boston

South of Boston

Great things to do in massachusetts.

Find great, fun things to do and fresh places to explore in the Bay State for every age and taste, from antique shopping to rock climbing to slithering through a water park. Check attractions' websites for updates to scheduling and other details, especially for activities affected by weather. Every region, from the historic homes and gardens of the Berkshires to the beaches of Cape Cod offers memorable adventures for the whole family. Plan a getaway to the cultural and historic sites of Boston and spring for a luxury hotel or waterfront lodging in this “Athens of America.” Follow these links for : Sightseeing - Walking & Hiking - Family Activities

Island Queen

75 Falmouth Heights Road Falmouth, MA, 02540 Phone: 508-548-4800

An ocean of fun things to do when you ferry from Cape Cod to Martha’s Vineyard

Plimoth Patuxet Museums

137 Warren Avenue Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-746-1622

Museum featuring a variety of hands-on experiences to acquaint visitors with 17th-Century life

Southwick’s Zoo

2 Southwick Street Mendon, MA, 01756 Phone: 800-258-9182

Adventure Awaits at New England’s Largest Zoo, Southwick’s Zoo!

See Plymouth

4 North Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-747-0100 Toll-Free: 800-872-1620

Whatever you love to do on vacation, Plymouth can provide it — and so much more

The House of the Seven Gables

225 Derby Street Salem, MA, 01970 Phone: 978-774-0991

Get inspired about history, and literature, when you visit this beloved many-gabled home

Greater Merrimack Valley

61 Market Street, Unit 1C Lowell, MA, 01852 Phone: 978-459-6150

Wide variety of activities, from concerts and theater to unique shopping and dining, in this vibrant area

Worcester Art Museum

55 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA, 01609 Phone: 508-799-4406

In this museum, there’s more to do than admire paintings (tho the paintings are amazing)

Battleship Cove

5 Water Street Fall River, MA, 02721 Phone: 508-678-1100 Toll-Free: 800-533-3194

A day out you won’t forget

Seekonk Grand Prix

1098 Fall River Avenue Seekonk, MA, 02771 Phone: 508-336-8307

So many fun options when you spend the day at this raceway with a game room, bumper cars, mini golf

American Heritage Museum

568 Main Street Hudson, MA, 01749 Phone: 978-562-9182

Visitors will feel like they are part of history at this interactive, educational museum

Old Sturbridge Village

1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, off Route 20 Sturbridge, MA, 01566 Phone: 508-347-3362 Toll-Free: 800-733-1830

Re-created 19th-century village is more than a museum – it’s an interactive experience

W. Russell Blake Planetarium

117 Long Pond Road Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-830-4470

Plymouth planetarium provides perfect evening for star-gazers

Meet Boston

Information Centers on Boston Common and Prudential Towers (Center Court) Boston, MA, 02116 Phone: 888-733-2678

With so much history, and so many activities, vibrant Boston has something for every visitor

1620 Winery

55 Cordage Park Circle Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-746-3532

Discover Quincy

City of Quincy Welcome Center - 1259 Hancock Street Quincy, MA, 02169 Phone: 617-471-1700

From bikers and beach-lovers to shoppers and skiers, everyone has a great time in this welcoming city

Visit the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts

Destination Berkshires: Create Your Summer Itinerary

Salem Witch Museum

19 1/2 Washington Square North Salem, MA, 01970 Phone: 978-744-1692

Immersive exhibits at with trials museum shed light on a dark period of New England history

The Steamship Authority

Ferry voyage to the islands off Cape Cod is the just the beginning of your adventure

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Jun 27, 2022 • 8 min read

Occupying a sprawling former factory complex in the Berkshires town of North Adams, MASS MoCA is one of the world’s most exciting places to view contemporary art © Barry Winiker / Getty Images

Whether you want to gain a new perspective on American history, explore unusual art venues or eat your weight in cannolis, Massachusetts is ready for you. 

Native Bay Staters and visitors from afar have little trouble filling their days with unique and exciting things to do all year long. For history buffs, art lovers, outdoor-adventure seekers and everyone else, here are the very best things to do all over Massachusetts.

Dump tea into Boston Harbor

The renowned Boston Tea Party helped pave the way to the American Revolutionary War – and nothing showcases this history quite like the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum . This in-person, interactive experience allows visitors to adopt a historic persona, engage in heated debates and shout “Huzzah!” as they join the Sons of Liberty in storming ships and hoisting crates of tea overboard. 

See amazing contemporary art at MASS MoCA

Set in 26 buildings on 19 acres, this extraordinary contemporary-art museum occupies the former site of the Sprague Electric Company. The sprawling post-industrial campus comes complete with brick facades, football field-sized rooms, open-air courtyards, hidden passageways, covered viaducts and other nooks and crannies. 

And every one of them is filled with art – bold, bizarre, eyebrow-raising, head-scratching, mind-boggling art, all frequently refreshed via rotating exhibitions. For a brilliant immersive experience, walk through Sol LeWitt’s Wall Drawing Retrospective , which occupies nearly one acre of wall space all by itself.

Treat yourself to cannoli in Boston’s North End

The North End is a little slice of the old country in the heart of  Boston . Dining out in the North End is a delightful and delicious experience – only most restaurants don’t serve dessert. 

That’s because they can’t top the sweets on offer at local bakeries. Light and crispy on the outside, sweet and creamy on the inside, cannolis are sheer perfection in a pastry – and a North End specialty. 

Where’s the best place to go for cannoli in the North End? The famous Italian bakeries are on Hanover St, though  Bova’s Bakery on Salem St serves equally scrumptious cannolis without the mile-long lines.

The best time to visit Massachusetts

Watch for whales at Stellwagen Bank

There’s nothing like the thrill of seeing a majestic whale launch its massive body out of the water or flip its tail as if saying hello. These types of sightings are (almost) guaranteed on a cruise to the offshore Stellwagen Bank , one of the world’s richest feeding grounds for marine mammals and birds.

Cruises depart from Gloucester, Plymouth, Provincetown and Boston. Common sightings include humpback, minke and fin whales, as well as dolphins, sharks and seals.

Ogle old-master paintings at the Gardner Museum

Isabella Stewart Gardner was a 19th-century socialite, a patron of the arts and a lover of the Boston Red Sox. Today, the unrivaled collection of art she amazzed on display at  a Venetian-style palazzo just off the Back Bay Fens. 

From rare books to ancient Roman objects to Italian Renaissance paintings, over 7500 pieces of art dazzle visitors. Watching over it all is Gardner herself,  via a captivating portrait by John Singer Sargent  hanging in the Gothic Room. If you close your eyes, it’s easy to imagine the salons and soirées that took place here back in the day. 

The interior courtyard – bursting with seasonal blooms, ancient Roman sculptures and mosaics – is worth the price of admission ($20) in itself. The museum was also the site of one of the world’s most brazen – and still unsolved – art heists, in 1990 : look out for the empty frames that still hang in the missing paintings’ place.

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Summit the cliffs at Quincy Quarries

This former granite quarry is now a sort of unofficial, experiential outdoor art studio and rock-climbing center. Vibrant paintings cover every cliff – personal tags, political rants and murals wacky and whimsical, their colors exploding off the dull gray granite facades. 

The place has an offbeat, unkempt beauty that may not appeal to everyone. Rock climbers in particular have mixed feelings about the graffiti (which makes the granite extra slick), though the quarry is still a popular spot to rope up, with dozens of climbing routes around the grounds. An epic view of the Boston skyline awaits if you make it to the summit.

Catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park

The oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, Fenway has been the scene of countless triumphs and tragedies since 1912. It’s the home of the Boston Red Sox, a team that inspires unrivaled passion in their fan base. The scene isn’t always pretty – but it’s pure, unfiltered Boston. If you can’t get tickets to a game, the on-site Bleacher Bar (with a limited view onto center field) is the next best thing.

Eat fried clams on the North Shore

The fried clam is one of the state’s iconic foods, with crispy breading on the outside, tender bivalve on the inside – and tasty all around. 

The North Shore is the place to sample this delicacy: it was invented here, and the clams harvested in Essex and Ipswich are consistently sweet and succulent. Sample them at Woodman’s of Essex (the original), at JT Farnham’s overlooking the salt marsh, or at the Clam Box , a restaurant that actually looks like...a clam box. 

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Discover the street art in Salem

The Point (or El Punto) is a predominately Latinx neighborhood only a few blocks from Salem’s historic center. In recent years, the streets have transformed into a unique Salem attraction: the Punto Urban Museum , an open-air art exhibition with more than 75 murals on the neighborhood’s brick walls, painted by artists from around the world.

The paintings immortalize Latinx heroes, elevate cultural themes and comment on socioeconomic inequities. And they also enrich the neighborhood with their color, texture, detail and vibrancy.

Best things to do in Salem  

Learn about Indigenous culture at the Plimoth Patuxet Museums

The town of Plymouth on the South Shore is typically known as the site of an early English settlement – but the native Wampanoag people have inhabited the region for over 12,000 years, with the Patuxet resident in the 17th century. The Plimoth Patuxet Museums explore both these histories. 

At Historic Patuxet, you can visit a wetu (Wampanoag house), study the craftsmanship of a dugout canoe and observe how food was grown and cooked before the English colonists arrived.

Cycle through the dunes along Cape Cod National Seashore

Stretching along the outer edge of the Outer Cape,  Cape Cod National Seashore is 40 miles of utter paradise. Pristine beaches, sand dunes, pine forests and kettle ponds with a few lighthouses for effect make any trip here one you’ll remember forever. 

It’s impossible to see it all in one visit, but the Province Lands bike trail offers an excellent sampler along a surprisingly rigorous 5.45-mile loop – one of  Cape Cod ’s top activities. On a hot day, end your ride at wild and wonderful Race Point Beach to cool off in the waves.

Best free things to do in Massachusetts  

Spy on seals in Chatham

It’s not unusual to glimpse a sweet, whiskered face peeking out of the waters near Cape Cod, which is home to some 50,000 gray and harbor seals. If you want a guaranteed sighting, take a boat trip out to Monomoy Island , where you’ll see the creatures bobbing in the water or lounging on the beach. 

During mating season (especially September and October), the sheer number of bodies astounds, with the long, narrow beach packed with hundreds of seals piled on top of each other like anchovies in a tin.

Alternatively, you can usually spot seals from the observation deck at the Chatham Pier Fish Market (which is also a fantastic place for a lobster roll lunch).

Tip: no matter how cute you think these seals are, remember they are wild animals. Always maintain a safe distance. 

Get lost in the stacks at Montague Bookmill

On a wooded country road along the banks of the Sawmill River on the edge of the micro-town of Montague is a bibliophile’s bliss. The unexpectedly rich and locally beloved Montague Bookmill is a place to get lost for hours. 

The c 1842 building retains the rustic atmosphere the grist mill it was for nearly a century. Today, it contains tens of thousands of volumes in a maze of stacks and shelves, with plenty of comfy chairs and sunny corners to curl up with your treasures. 

With coffee available next door at the Lady Killigrew Café , this place is pretty much perfect.

Behold the dramatic colors of the Aquinnah Cliffs

It’s hard to outdo the red-clay cliffs at the western end of Martha’s Vineyard , both for their sheer natural splendor and their geology, which is unique in Massachusetts. 

Rising 150ft from the ocean , this dramatic glacial formation is a stunner, especially when it reflects rich jewel tones in the late-afternoon sun. Expect gorgeous views – and surprisingly few crowds – at Gay Head public beach.

Catch some of the world’s best artists at a Berkshire summer festival

Whether you’re into live music, theater or dance, you can get your cultural fix amid  the Berkshires ’ forest-covered hills and under star-filled skies. Massachusetts’ western mountain region has been an artistic hub ever since the Gilded Age elite came from New York and Boston to spend their summers amid the greenery. 

No longer as exclusive, it’s now a lovely region for packing a picnic, spreading a blanket and listening to live music at Tanglewood , or watching a dance performance at Jacob’s Pillow . This is Massachusetts summer at its best.

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Pick (and eat) your own apples amid the fall foliage

Apple picking is the perfect way to get your fix of eye-goggling fall foliage and crispy, local produce. In September and October, apple orchards around the state lure families with hay rides, hedge mazes and other farm animals. 

Others forgo these extras:  Bartlett’s Orchard in Richmond only has trees, yielding a dozen varieties of apples (the local favorite: tart, juicy McIntosh). But the surrounding Berkshire hills – dressed up in extravagant yellows, oranges and reds – make Bartlett’s one of the top places in Massachusetts to take in the splendor.

A word to the wise: no matter where you get your apples, do not pass on apple-cider donuts, an autumn rite of passage each year.

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22 Most Beautiful Places in Massachusetts  

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If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful spots in the US, look no further than Massachusetts . You’ll discover beautiful towns and natural landscapes that make this New England destination a favorite for all travelers.

There is a lot to see and do in Massachusetts that allows you to appreciate its beauty. From the scenic coastal destinations, historical harbors, and natural landmarks, the Bay State has something for everyone to enjoy.  Let’s take a look at the most beautiful places in Massachusetts that are a must-see when you visit.  

Table of Contents

When is the Best Time to Visit Massachusetts?

Well, there is beauty to be found year round in the Bay State, for sure! Winter getaways in Massachusetts are all that is cozy and warm, spring in places like Boston are a celebration of new growth and rejuvenation, but when it comes right down to it, summer and fall probably offer the best opportunity for viewing the most beautiful places in Massachusetts.

Most Beautiful Places in Massachusetts

1. boston harbor.

Boston is much too large to experience it all in one day, so I’ll let you in on a tip: the Boston Harbor is a must-see. You might’ve heard about the harbor as the famous site of the historic Boston Tea Party. Today, it offers many beautiful sights to enjoy while pondering the myth if the water still tastes like tea.

You can go for a leisure stroll on the Boston Harborwalk, where you’ll have scenic views of Massachusetts Bay and the endless ship masts docked in the harbor. Take a harbor cruise to view the magical skyline of Boston Harbour, undeniably one of the most beautiful places in MA. 

2. Boston Harbor Islands

Board one of the ferries from the Boston Harbor to visit the Boston Harbor Islands. It consists of 34 islands in total, with 13 of them designated as a state park. With more than a half-million visitors every year, there are many sights and activities to explore on each island.

Whether you’re checking out the historic Fort Warren on George’s Island, hiking the coastal trails on Moon Island, or checking out the iconic Grave’s Lighthouse, there’s something to do for everyone. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful Massachusetts scenery and have views of the Boston Skyline in the distance.

3. Boston Common

You will find lots of people enjoying Boston Common, an urban park in Downtown Boston, all year round. You’ll get to enjoy more than 50 acres of green space surrounded by towering office buildings and residences. The summertime is always a popular time to enjoy recreational activities, but the winter can be just as charming.

This beautiful Boston park was built in 1964, making it the oldest public park in the US  and one of the most beautiful places in MA. There are sporting facilities like a baseball field, tennis court, and ice-skating rink. It’s an excellent place for people-watching, picnics, or catching an event like Shakespeare in the Park. The park is the starting point of the Freedom Trail .

4. Cape Cod National Seashore

Cape Cod is a favorite vacation destination spot for New Englanders, thanks to its picturesque scenery. It’s a large peninsula extending into the Atlantic Ocean with several towns, but a national seashore area is a place you don’t want to miss.

Cape Cod National Seashore’s beauty will surely take your breath away. Of all the most beautiful places in MA, you will get to experience the best of its beaches, with 40 miles of shoreline. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, and more.

Go for a scenic Massachusetts hike along the sandy beach trails or boardwalk swamp trails. You’ll encounter landmarks like the Nauset Lighthouse and Highland Lighthouse. (Check out more of the best lighthouses in Massachusetts ).

5. Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is no longer Massachusetts’s best-kept secret because it’s now developed into a popular vacation spot. But even with the large summer crowds, the island’s beauty still captivates visitors to make it a go-to destination.

You can take a short ferry ride from Cape Cod to reach the island. It has everything from charming colonial-style towns like Oak Bluffs to some of the most picturesque MA beaches , making it truly one of the rarest and most beautiful places in MA.

One of the best ways to experience the island is by renting bikes and exploring the island. Be sure to stop by the local wineries for wine tasting while visiting this Massachusetts gem.

6. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Boston has several world-class museums, but none quite as beautiful as the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . The stunning courtyard is a trendy place for photography.

It’s hard to say which is more impressive – the Venetian mansion-style architecture or the famous paintings hanging inside it. The art collection includes works from Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Botticelli. You’ll see masterpieces from American, European, and Asian art.

You can spend a few hours wandering the multiple floors of this beautiful museum. The courtyard features decorative plants and perfect lighting that makes it appear like a work of art in itself. Historically and aesthetically, it is few among the most beautiful places in MA for art-lovers. 

7. Heritage Museum and Gardens

  With over 100 acres of manicured garden landscape, you won’t find another garden as big as the Heritage Museum and Gardens in the region. You’ll immediately feel the tranquil atmosphere as you wander around the beautiful gardens .

The Heritage Museum and Gardens, located in Sandwich, feature many exotic flowers, trees, bushes, and more. Every detail of the garden is designed, including decorative features like waterfalls, a lake, windmills, and more.

The most popular times to visit these scenic Massachusetts gardens are during the spring and winter. The spring features the flora at full bloom, where the entire space is filled with colors and a pleasant aroma. The Gardens Aglow event is during the winter, where the site features an incredible Christmas light display.

8. Plimoth Plantation

Take a walk through the past to see where the pilgrims first landed when arriving in the new land. Plimoth Plantation is an impressive attraction that recreates the Native and Pilgrim villages as they were during the 17th Century.

Plimoth Plantation is a living museum experience that immerses you into the pilgrims’ lifestyle. You’ll see colonists dressed in authentic costumes that talk about their lives in the new world. You can even peek inside the traditional homes to see how they lived. If you are excited to experience pilgrim villages, Plimoth Plantation is undoubtedly one the must-visit spots in Mass.

Don’t forget to check out the restored Mayflower ship located just a few minutes away, also in the town of Plymouth .

9. The Berkshires

Travel to scenic Western Massachusetts to appreciate the Bay State’s natural beauty. The Berkshires describe the region characterized by forest-covered mountains and is a favorite outdoor recreation area.  For nature-lovers, it is one of the most beautiful places in MA and in the USA.

Hiking is one of the favorite activities in the Berkshires . Step out into the scenic outdoors to discover the best viewpoints and trails. Hike to the Mount Greylock summit for the best view overlooking the landscape – it’s the highest point.

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit; the Berkshires is one of the best places in MA to see the colorful fall foliage . It’s also great for a scenic drive in between towns. 

10. Bridge of Flowers

Guaranteed, you’ve never seen a bridge as unique as the Bridge of Flowers . The name accurately describes this small yet beautiful attraction in Massachusetts. The bridge is decorated with a colorful array of flowers seasonally, so it’s worth a visit anytime of year. For plant lovers and gardeners, this nature’s paradise will definitely appeal to you as one of the most beautiful destinations in Massachusetts.

Bridge of Flowers is a former trolley bridge built-in 1908 that is now a pedestrian bridge extending between Shelburne and Buckland. It is decorated with various flowers, such as bulbs, perennials, and dahlias. 

You can visit the bridge to see the flower decorations from April to October. It’s a popular photography spot or great for simply enjoying views of Deerfield River.

11. Nantucket

Massachusetts has some of the wealthiest communities in New England. You’ll get a glimpse of it when you visit Nantucket. It’s an island about 30 miles south of Cape Cod that’s a beautiful place for a scenic day trip. It’s also a great spot for a serene, restful retreat in winter !

This beautiful Massachusetts island feels secluded since it’s only accessible by ferry, but it has lots of sights and things to do. Visit the quaint town of Nantucket and explore the boutique shops lining the cobblestone streets or visit Brant Point Lighthouse, one of the three lighthouses on the island.

Whaling has a long history in Nantucket. You can take a whale-watching cruise or visit the Whaling Museum.

12. Rockport

Chances are, you’ve probably already seen Rockport in one of your favorite movies. This beautiful Massachusetts town is a popular film shoot site, and now you can say you’ve visited it! 

The small town of Rockport is the perfect escape from nearby Boston. It’s a scenic coastal town that keeps visitors coming back. Not only is it situated right on the shore surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, but you’ll see many vintage fisherman shacks that now house restaurants and shops; lots of small town MA charm here!

Rockport is a popular art destination with many galleries and you can go on a gallery crawl to see works from local artists depicting the town’s beauty.

13. Harvard University Campus

Harvard University is perhaps the most prestigious university in the world, but it’s also absolute architectural eye candy. Located in Cambridge, the campus is one of the most iconic places you’ll see in Massachusetts. It’s full of historic buildings, and you’ll feel smarter just by walking around the campus.

Harvard University was established in 1636, making it the oldest university in the US. Although it is a private university, visitors are welcomed to walk the campus. Harvard Square is a central hub of the campus that features statues and historical landmarks. Some of the most notable sites include the John Harvard statue, Massachusetts Hall, Widener Library, and Memorial Church.

14. Provincetown Dunes

You’ll feel like you’re in a new world as you begin to hike the Provincetown Dunes. The dunes occupy a large area of the Cape Cod National Seashore, but the landscape change appears otherworldly.

The coastal Provincetown dunes offer one of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s easy to forget that you’re in Massachusetts, thanks to the ethereal scenery.

The entire region is covered with rolling dunes so prepare to get very sandy. There are hiking trails that wind around and above the dunes. Plus, you’re in Provincetown, which is full of fun things to do and yummy places to eat!

15. Aquinnah Cliffs

The Aquinnah Cliffs are a must-visit while on Martha’s Vineyard because the pictures don’t capture how beautiful it is. Formerly known as Gay Head Cliffs, it’s one of the most popular destinations and most beautiful places in MA.

The Aquinnah Cliffs are made from red clay, giving them a spectacular color. Visitors can climb to the top of the cliffs to enjoy one of the best views Massachusetts offers, with sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby landmarks like the Gay Head Lighthouse.

If you can, join the crowds to watch an incredible MA sunset from atop the cliffs.

16. Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Travel to Plum Island to discover the well-preserved landscape of the lovely Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. This nature area was designated for migratory birds, but the conservation efforts make it one of the most beautiful places in Massachusetts to check out.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge covers most of the small island. The scenic coastal landscape has the cleanest beaches and picturesque dunes. It’s an excellent destination for birdwatching, swimming, hiking, and fishing. 

There is a visitor center to learn more about the best places to see birds and hiking trails to scenic viewpoints.

17. Bartholomew’s Cobble

If you’re a fan of the outdoors, you’ll genuinely enjoy nature walks at Bartholomew’s Cobble, near Sheffield, MA. Designated as a natural landmark, you have a chance to see hundreds of species of plants and birds.

Bartholomew’s Cobble is known for its flora diversity. Several miles of hiking trails take you around this forested region of Massachusetts. It’s a scenic hike that you’ll surely enjoy as you trek alongside the Housatonic River.

Fall is one of the best times to visit this scenic area of Massachusetts, where the region showcases the vibrant colors of the fall foliage.

18. Bash Bish Falls

New England has plenty of beautiful waterfalls to check out, but Bash Bish Falls consistently ranks as one of the most stunning. It’s tucked away in the forest, so you get to hike the trails before stumbling upon this incredible sight.

Bash Bish Falls is located on the Massachusetts-New York border. It is the tallest waterfall in MA, with a nearly 60-ft drop. Although swimming isn’t permitted, the spectacular scenery at this Massachusetts waterfall is more than enough to appreciate.

During the warmer seasons, you can have a picnic near the waterfalls. Enjoy your meal amidst the soothing sounds of the falls trickling down the large rocks.

19. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

One of the most beautiful places in MA to see nature’s largest mammal is at the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary . It’s a popular whale-watching site that will leave you speechless once you get to see it in person.

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is a large preserved marine area of Massachusetts Bay. It’s a hotspot for spotting whales, dolphins, and other species.

Take a scenic boat tour into the bay and keep your camera ready to snap photos of these majestic marine creatures.

20. Halibut Point State Park

After you’ve explored the scenic town of Rockport, stop by the Halibut Point State Park located just outside of town. It has 67 acres worth of hiking trails and landmarks in the beautiful landscape.

Halibut Point State Park is unique for the massive rocks lining the shore. The hiking trails extend over the rocks. You’ll reach elevations for one of the most scenic overlooks as it definitely scores top among the most beautiful places in MA. You can see the nearby beaches, Isles of Shoals, and even Mount Agamenticus in Maine on clear days.

21. Wellfleet Kettle Ponds

 One of the most beautiful “hidden” places in Massachusetts is the Cape Cod open secret of the beautiful freshwater oases that have been left behind from melted glacial deposits thousands of years ago, known as the Wellfleet Kettle Ponds . While access for non residents can be tricky to these gorgeous deep blue ponds as they all do require a Wellfleet Residents sticker to park, you could probably find yourself a friend in Wellfleet to take you there for an in-person glimpse of this gorgeous natural scenery in Massachusetts.

22. Benson’s Pond Cranberry Bog

Of course, you can’t talk about the most beautiful places in Massachusetts without mentioning the vibrant, crimson-filled cranberry bogs that have been such a significant part of Massachusetts’ state agricultural history and culture for such a long time!

Not only can you visit cranberry bogs in Massachusetts , but you can even participate in the cranberry harvest at places like Benson’s Pond , where you can strap on a pair of chest waders and get right in the vivid red cranberry bog yourself. This would make for a very cool photo to add to your Insta!

You might also like:

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• 5 Best Places to Visit in Massachusetts
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• Hidden Gems in New England: 15 Secret Places to Visit
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• 15 Best VRBOs + Airbnbs in Massachusetts
• 9 Best Restaurants in Marthas Vineyard
• 13 Incredible Antique Stores in Massachusetts: Antiquing MA

20+ Best Places To Visit in Massachusetts

Planning a vacation or road trip in Massachusetts and need some destination inspiration? Here’s my guide to the best places to visit in the historic state of Massachusetts. It takes you to all the best towns to visit in Massachusetts.

With this guide, you can create your own Massachusetts bucket list or road trip itinerary.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is the most populous state New England. It welcomes nearly 31 million visitors each year. Massachusetts is so much more than just Boston, however much I love that city.

There are so many amazing things to do and see in Massachusetts. You can travel back in history in the tranquility of the state’s quaint Berkshire towns.

There, you’ll find remnants of early America, turn-of-the-century castle homes, and enjoy an artsy county escape.

You can also visit charming towns that played a critical role in America’s Revolution War history. Or indulge in a beach vacation and eat delicious seafood in world famous destinations like Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard.

Come to Massachusetts in the summer to visit the coastal regions and islands. Come in the shoulder season to leaf peep or step back in time at Massachusetts’ historic towns.

READ : Best Fall Foliage Road Trip in New England

Best Places To Visit In Massachusetts

Honestly, you’re spoiled for choice in Massachusetts. Massachusetts is amazing, and it’s not just the lobster.

I know, I’ve lived there and visited many times, taking day trips on each occasion. To my mind, these are the towns and places in Massachusetts that you shouldn’t miss.

Boston is the best city to visit in Massachusetts. The country’s oldest city, Boston is steeped in American history and beautifully situated on the Charles River and Boston Harbor. Boston played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War.

It’s sometimes called the “Athens of America” or the “cradle of liberty” because it was the source of key ideas that shaped America.

Boston is really a dream destination, especially for history buffs and culture vultures. It has a great foodie scene, wide open green spaces, quaint brick-clad neighborhoods, and first rate museums. Visiting Boston offers all the benefits of a big metropolis without the intensity and frenetic pace of New York City.

One of the best things to do in Boston is to walk the Freedom Trail , a 2.5 mile red brick path taking you to Boston’s historic landmarks. Along the way, you’ll see 16 sites and monuments relating to Boston’s founding and the Revolutionary War.

Before you start, stroll through the verdant Boston Public Garden and Boston Commons, the oldest park in the U.S.

Sports lovers can take in a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. Culture vultures can hit up Boston’s amazing museums. My two favorites are the Museum of Fine Art and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum .

Architecture enthusiasts should visit the breathtaking Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library at Copley Square. Or head to the stunning Boston Athenaeum .

Nothing beats a stroll in Boston’s beautiful neighborhoods — historic Beacon Hill , the stunning Back Bay, hipster South End, the Italian vibe in the North End, and the Back Bay Fens (where you can admire the Keller Rose Garden).

In Beacon Hill, you can walk down Acorn Street, one of the most Instagrammed streets in the United States.

READ : Guide To the Best Landmarks and Attractions in Boston

• Where to eat : SRV, Beehive, Barcelona Wine Bar, Toro, Mistral, Sonsie, Sweet Cheeks
• Where to stay : Kimpton Nine Zero ,  R itz Carlton , Four Seasons , Inn at St. Botolph , the  Lenox Hotel .
• Experiences : 2.5 hour walking tour  of the Freedom Trail, 2 hour guided walking tour  of the Back Bay, 3 hour tour by Secret Food in the North End

2. Cambridge

Historic Cambridge is a lively university enclave near Boston, with the Charles River as its playground and backyard. But the town has its own unique identity.

Cambridge is home to the renowned Harvard University (where you’ll be wrapped in red brick) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (where you can admire eclectic modern architecture by some of the US’ best architects).

Both campuses are full of significant architecture, landmarks, and outdoor art.

And it’s not just the universities that dazzle. In Cambridge, visitors can enjoy outstanding museums, a vibrant performing arts scene, and delicious haute cuisine restaurants.

The Harvard Art Museums are the best art spot, with a range of works from antiquity to the present, including a prized van Gogh.

Be sure to hang out in Harvard Square, the iconic center of Cambridge.

It’s a triangular plaza located at the intersection of Battle Street, John F. Kennedy Street, and Massachusetts Avenue. You’ll find all manner of humanity — students, tourists, political activists, buskers, chess players, and other street creatures.

You can also visit Longfellow House . It’s located on Brattle Street, the historic road connecting old Cambridge and Watertown.

It’s famous as the one time home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who wrote stirring tales that thrilled 19th century America, including the Midnight Ride of Paul Revere .

READ : 1 Day Itinerary for Cambridge

• Where to eat : Area Four, Giulia, Harvest, Oleana
• Where to stay : Charles Hotel , Kendall Hotel , Kimpton Marlow Hotel
• Experiences : Harvard University walking tour , MIT walking tour

Salem is definitely one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts. It’s a beautiful seaside town and an easy day trip from Boston at only 30 minutes away.

If you want to bask in the festive fall spirit in New England, there’s no better place than witchy Salem. You can learn about Salem’s creepy past as the “witch capital” of the United States.

Salem embraces rather than shies away from its notorious past, when the infamous 17th century Witch Trials defined the town. Salem is replete with whimsical magic shops, all things haunted horror, and ghostly tour options. Many of Salem’s must see destinations are devoted to its witchy history.

But Salem also boasts beautiful 17th century Colonial and Georgian architecture and delicious seafood. Salem is an eminently walkable town. You’ll be plunged back in time and history to bewitching effect.

Charming Essex Street is a historic cobblestoned district, with the original brick Old Town Hall . Old Town Hall dates from 1816.

The second floor still stands as a public hall and the first floor is used as a public art space. The exterior of the building was featured in the popular Disney Halloween cult film, Hocus Pocus .

Are you a literary fan? If so, you should pay a visit to the House of the Seven Gables . Built in 1668, it’s one of the oldest mansions still standing in the United States.

Nathaniel Hawthorne immortalized the house in his 1851 novel of the same name. Inside, you’ll find a recreation of the secret staircase from the novel.

The mansion is the perfect destination for fans of early Colonial architecture and Georgian interiors.

It’s a prime example of the prosperity of early Salem, with enviable waterfront views. The house where Nathaniel Hawthorne was born is also on the property.

READ : Top Attractions in Sale m

• Where to eat : The Lobster Shanty, Turner’s Seafood, Opus, Firenze Trattoria, Bella Verona
• Where to stay : Hawthorne Hotel , The Merchant , Daniels House Bed and Breakfast
• Experiences : History and hauntings 2+ hour walking tour , Witchcraft trials walk , Ghosts of Salem walking tour

4. Stockbridge

Settled in 1734 by British missionaries, Stockbridge may be my favorite adorable small town in the Berkshires. It’s blessed with simple charm and a fabulous line up of cultural attractions.

Three of the greatest American artists and authors called Stockbridge their home — Edna St. Vincent Millay, Herman Melville, and Norman Rockwell. James Taylor sang about the town in Sweet Baby James .

One of America’s greatest treasures is the Norman Rockwell Museum . Rockwell was one of the greatest artists and illustrators in American history. Stockbridge was Rockwell’s long time residence and what he called his “best studio yet.”

His titular museum is home to a year round series of rotating exhibitions of Rockwell’s art and Saturday Evening Post magazine covers. There are 570 Rockwell illustrations, including the famous Triple Self Portrait and Going and Coming .

You can also visit Chesterwood , the home of Daniel Chester. It’s a 1920s Colonial Revival house, complete with the soaring studio of the legendary sculptor and landscape architect.

Chester created the statue of President Lincoln seated in the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C . , and you’ll see plaster models in the museum.

Apart from visual arts and historic, the Berkshire Theater Group provides performing arts entertainment. The IS 183 Gallery has a stash of regional and national art works.

Every summer, Stockbridge (along with the town of Lenox) hosts the Tanglewood Music Festival, a series of concerts across all musical disciplines.

Stockbridge is also home to one of the Berkshires Gilded Age “cottages,” Naumkeag .

You can tour this quirky 44 room mansion designed by Stanford White, famed starchitect of the time. It boasts original furnishings, rooms full of angles and curves, and captivating gardens.

• Where to eat : Once Upon a Table, Truc Orient Express
• Where to stay : Red Lion Inn , The Inn at Stockbridge

Lenox is a pretty town of art galleries and upscale boutiques housed in historic buildings. You’ll find the classic Berkshires experience and some of the region’s most iconic properties — Blantyre, Wheatleigh, Canyon Ranch, and The Mount.

At one point, there were so many lavish summer homes that Lenox was known as “the inland Newport.”

In 1902, Edith Wharton, the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in Literature, built The Mount in Lenox. It’s an incredible throwback. It was a stately country retreat for the literary lioness and her then-husband, modeled after European manses but lacking their excesses.

No gaudy entries or vulgar grand staircases for the “Lady of Lenox,” who happily lived a corset free life and wrote Ethan Frome and The House of Mirth there. She did most of her writing in her third floor bedroom — in bed!

The Mount has been beautifully restored to its appearance during Wharton’s tenure. The exterior is a striking white stucco, with clusters of gables and white chimneys and a roof capped with a balustrade and cupola.

The Mount is home to a summer lecture series, weekly bird walks, concerts, theater performances, and outdoor sculpture exhibits. Edith Wharton’s library has been returned to the house, with 22 first editions of her work.

Lenox is also home to Tanglewood , the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Tanglewood is a must visit destination for music lovers, especially in the summer months.

Tanglewood’s venues attract a wide variety of musicians in the summer months. You can hear symphony orchestras, solo performances, and world class musicians.

All this makes Lenox one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts.

• Where to eat : Nudel, Wheatleigh, Bistro Zinc, Alpamayo, Cafe Lucia
• Where to stay : Wheatleigh , Hampton Terrace Inn

6. Williamstown

Williamstown is a cool college town, home to Williams College. Williams College is one of the “Little Ivies,” known for its ivy covered buildings, Gothic chapel, and beautiful architecture.

Williamstown is also home to the vaunted Clark Art Institute . It’s one of the United State’s best museums, focusing on historic European and American art.

The museum has been fully renovated and expanded in a mix of architectural styles. The museum is home to some beautiful works by John Singer Sargent and Winslow Homer and a world class collection of French Impressionist paintings (30 Renoir paintings!).

The Clark Institute is located on a 140 acre compound. It has well marked (and free) hiking trails for year round exploration.

The well manicured paths wind through woods, cresting at the top of Stone Hill. From there, you’ll have a beautiful panoramic views of Williamstown and Vermont’s Green Mountains.

At the Williams College Museum of Art you’ll find modern and contemporary art to admire. If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can attend the Williamstown Theatre Festival, a 2002 Tony award winner for outstanding regional theater. Williams College offers concerts, recitals, and theatrical productions.

If you didn’t hike at the Clark Institute, try Pine Cobble Trail. The 3.2 mile trail is a steadily ascending climb to the 1,894 foot summit. From the top, you’ll have beautiful views of Williamstown and North Adams.

• Where to stay : Williams Inn , Fairfield Inn
• Where to eat : A Frame Bakery, Coyote Flaco, Mezze Bistro & Bar, ‘6 House Pub

7. Chatham Massachusetts

The Cape is a no-brainer. But where to stake your claim? Try the inimitable charms of Chatham, a tony New England town where the homes induce jaw drops, the historic center is walkable, and the seafood is hauled in just offshore.

Chatham’s curving Main Street conjures up low key elegance and old world charm. Chatham is the only Cape Code town bounded on three sides by water. It’s consistently ranked as one of the US’ best beach towns.

Chatham Lighthouse Beach is considered the most scenic public beach. It’s set beneath Chatham’s iconic lighthouse. This wild stretch of the Atlantic is the place for long walks and sunbathing (the surf is rough).

If you need a dose of culture with your beach retreat, head to the Orpheum. It’s a restored vintage theater showing first run movies and classics.

Or take in a play or musical at the Monomoy Theater, after browsing the casual to high end shops.

• Where to eat: Impudent Oyster, Del Mar Bar and Bistro, Twenty Eight Atlantic
• Where to stay: Chatham Bars Inn , Queen Anne Inn , The Hawthorne

8. Nantucket Town

Just 30 miles off the New England coast lies the idyllic small town of Nantucket. Nantucket is a place where you can simultaneously hit the beach and be visually stimulated.

In summer months, Nantucket can be a pricey paradise. Of course, the beaches (Jetties, Surfside) are stunning. But the historic center is also adorable with cobbled streets, historic residences, quaint shops, and innovative eateries.

More than a dozen art galleries are sprinkled around the downtown. On Union Street, an international roster of artists have contemporary works on display at the Art Cabinet.

Perhaps the top notch gallery is the Artists’ Association of Nantucket. It features rotating art exhibitions by local, regional, and national artists.

If you’d like to attend a poetry reading or lecture, hit up the Nantucket Atheneum. You can listen to authors, historians, and university professors.

In June, there’s the Nantucket Film Festival, where 30 independent films are screened at different venues.

• Where to stay : White Elephant , Nantucket Hotel & Resort , Greyson House
• Where to eat : The Proprietors Bar & Table, Oran Mor, Greyson House, Dun, Brotherhood of Thieves, Straight Wharf

9. Siasconset

This tiny Nantucket town delivers classic New England style looks — sweeping panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean, rose-covered saltbox houses, and the Sankaty Head Light. The town is nicknamed ‘Sconset. Nowadays, the former fishing houses give way to swanky mansions.

Sconset Beach is the best sandy beach on the north side of Nantucket. It’s an easy walk from town.

Made of white seashells, the Sconset Bluff Walk is the most scenic walk in Nantucket. The public cliff walk leads from Siasconset to the cute Sankaty Head Lighthouse. It takes you by the most beautiful properties on the island.

• Where to stay in Siasconset : Hotel Pippa, The Nantucket Hotel & Resort,
• Where to eat in Siasconset : Sconset Cafe, The Chanticleer, Claudette’s Sandwich Shop, Keeper’s Restaurant

10. Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard

Just across the waters from Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard is one of the best places in Massachusetts to visit that’s known the world over.

Martha’s Vineyard fills up with vacationers in the summer from Boston and New York. They come for the island’s breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and savvy foodie venues.

But the crowds are centered in the northern edge of the island. Take some time to stroll the streets of Oak Bluffs, Edgartown and Tisbury before heading down southwest, or “up island” as the locals call it, locals and island veterans head to the small town of Aquinnah.

Located below the clay colored Aquinnah Cliffs (a national landmark), the white sand Moshup Beach is a sanctuary from the horde. There’s a cleared path that takes you downhill to the beach, which is strewn with enormous boulders. It’s one of the best beaches in the US.

• Where to eat : Larsen’s Fish Market, Menemsha Gallery
• Where to stay : Outermost Inn

11. Newburyport

First settled in 1635, Newburyport is an immaculate seaside town. It has a classic New England feel, with red brick streets, lobster shacks, and cobbled lanes. Plus “the Port” is only 35 miles from Boston, making it the perfect weekend getaway.

State Street is the heart of Newburyport. You’ll find an eclectic treasure trove of shops — clothing boutiques, bookstores, cafes, and vintage shops.

The Firehouse Center for the Arts is Newburyport’s cultural hotspot, offering concerts, musicals, and plays.

When you tire of shopping, surf and sand lovers can hit the beach. Plum Island is only a 20 minute drive from Newburyport.

Plum Island has beautiful and beloved sandy beaches and dunes. And it’s home to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, a hidden gem sanctuary with prime bird watching opportunities.

• Where to stay : Compass Rose Inn , Blue Inn on the Beach , Clark Currier Inn , GarrisonInn Boutique Hotel
• Where to eat : Agave, Black Cow, Brine Oyster Bar, Giuseppe’s Italian Restaurant, Revitalive Cafe & Juice Bar, Brown Sugar Cafe, Ceia Kitchen and Bar

12. Northampton Massachusetts

Just 2 hours from Boston, the rural town of Northampton is a cultural nerve center in New England.

It’s a pretty town, ringed by 5 colleges and college museums. Grand mansions line tree-shaded streets. The beautiful Main Street is filled with with shops, art galleries, bookshops, etc.

In downtown Northampton, there are more than a dozen visual arts venues. The Northampton Center for the Arts offers poetry readings, film screenings, and concerts. The Calvin Theater is the premiere concert venue, hosing major touring music and comedy acts.

Four of the five colleges near Northampton offer theater and visual arts. Smack in the middle of Northampton is Smith College.

Its beautiful Smith College Museum of Art just received a $35 million makeover. The museum offers a year round series of art lectures, contemporary art exhibitions, and films.

Just down the road is Mount Holyoke College Art Museum . It offers contemporary and traditional exhibitions year round. You can also admire contemporary work at Amherst’s Mead Art Museum or check out national and international exhibits at Amherst’s University Gallery.

Northampton has a good foodie scene too, with both great pizzerias and haute cuisine. There are two dairies nearby, so the town’s cheese and ice cream options are among the best in New England.

Hikers can head to the popular Norwottuck Rail Trail Line or Look Park.

• Where to stay : Hotel Northampton , The Ellery , Fairfield Inn
• Where to eat : Bela, Mulino’s Trattoria, Paul and Elizabeth’s, Spoleto, Green Bean

13. Worcester

Right in the heart of the state, Worcester is one of the best places in Massachusetts to explore. It’s the second largest city in Massachusetts after Boston and just an hour away from Beantown.

Once in Worcester, take a gander through the huge exhibitions at the Worcester Art Museum . You can easily spend a good few hours inside.

The museum has works of Impressionism, Roman mosaics on the Renaissance Court floor, medieval armor, and Paul Revere’s silver collection.

Be sure to visit the Bancroft Tower . On the National Register of Historical Places, it’s been around in Worcester since 1900. This fantasy medieval castle was built on a whim to honor a US Navy pioneer. It’s a miniaturized castle in the middle of a park.

At night, you can take in a theater or music performance at the elegant Hanover Inn, Mechanics Hall, or Tuckerman Hall.

• Where to eat : Mezcal Tequila Cantina, Suzette Creoperie & Cafe, Birch Tree Bread Company, Bocado Tapas Bar
• Where to stay : Beechwood Hotel , Courtyard Worcester

14. Plymouth

Situated at the mouth of Cape Cod Bay, Plymouth is a historical haven. The town was the very first permanent settlement by Europeans north of Virginia. Today, it’s a thriving small town with a lovely historic district, perfect for history buffs.

After parking up, head to the Mayflower II , which is a full scale replica of the original 17th century Mayflower. The Mayflower is famous as the ship that brought pilgrims to the US in 1620. You can even take a tour of the ship itself, which is docked in Plymouth Harbor

Also, to learn the pilgrims’ tale, stop in the state’s oldest museum, Pilgrim Hall . There, you’ll find an unmatched collection of ancient artifacts and possessions of the pilgrims.

Afterwards, you’ll get to wander around historic Howland House and visit the 18th century Court House.

If you want to really step back in time, head to Plimoth Plantation . It’s a living museum that aims to explore the daily lives of the Colonial Americans.

The village has been carefully recreated, with thatched roofs and giant open fireplaces. Click here to pre-book a ticket.

The actors in the museum are in period costume and never step out of character. You can watch them performing 17th century tasks including building, gardening, and military exercises.

• Where to eat : KKatie’s Burger Bar, Blue Eyed Crab Grille & Raw Bar, Mamma Mia’s
• Where to stay : Mirbeau Inn & Spa , Hilton Garden Inn

15. Bash Bish Falls, Great Barrington

Near Great Barrington you’ll find the beautiful Bash Bish Falls. Bash Bish is the largest single drop waterfall in Massachusetts. Water is sliced in two by a massive boulder creating a picture perfect double waterfall.

At 80 foot high, it’s not Niagara size. But it’s still pretty. A steep 20 minute trail leads from the parking lot. Bish Bash is on the Massachusetts-New York border. If you want a less challenging hike, drive 1 mile west to the New York side parking lot.

Picturesque Bash Bish Falls has been a popular Berkshires tourist stop since the mid 19th century. When you come upon the falls, you’ll feel as though you’ve discovered a secret, woodland spot. But, be forewarned, there will be many other waterfall pilgrims at this uber popular hiking spot.

• Where to stay in Great Barrington : Fairfield Inn , Thornewood Inn , Granville House
• Where to eat in Great Barrington : Prairie Whale, Rubi’s Cafe, Cheesemongers & Grocers, Meat Market, Bizen, John Andrews

16. Pontoosuc Lake & Berkshires Museum

Around 10 miles from the New York state border is pristine Pontoosuc Lake. It’s is a gem to visit for a stroll or boat ride. Not only that, with nearby Lake Onata, you have two pretty lakes to choose from.

After enjoying the lakes, pop over to the Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield. It’s just undergone a major renovation. The museum showcases everything from a stegosaurus to Alexander Calder mobiles.

If you’re a Henry Melville fan, stop visit his small yellow house, Arrowhead . The author lived in this converted warehouse during his most productive writing years. He wrote Moby Dick in the second floor study. Melville built his porch on the “wrong” side of the house for the best view of Mt. Greylock.

Be sure to indulge in some delicious ice cream at Krispy Cones.

• Where to stay near Pittsfield : Overnight at the excellent choices in Lenox instead.
• Where to eat in Pittsfield : Elizabeth’s, Enso Asian Bistro, Mission Bar and Tapas

17. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Park

Want to view some of the most massive animals on the planet? The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Park is one of the best whale watching spots in the entire world. It’s a wild ocean destination not far from Boston, just 37 miles away.

The sancturay has an extremely productive and diverse environment, which encourages a wide mix of marine wildlife.

Each summer, around 50 recognized humpbacks return. You can also spot dolphins and seals. There are plenty of whale spotting tours available in the area departing from Gloucester or Provincetown. Click here for a list of boat tour operators.

Address : 175 Edward Foster Road, Scituate MA

18. Mt. Greylock Park, Adams

Located near the town of Adams in the Berkshires, and inspiring Herman Melville and Henry David Thoreau, lies Mount Greylock . It’s the highest point in the state at 3,491 feet above sea level. You can drive up to the summit for Massachusetts’ highest viewing point, which features views of five states if visibility is good.

There are plenty of marked hiking trails at Mt. Greylock as well, many starting from the parking lot at the mountain’s base. Click here for the online trail map.

At the top, there’s a War Tower Memorial for WWII veterans, a panoramic view, and Bascom Lodge where you can eat lunch.

According to J.K. Rowling, Mt. Greylock is the location of the North American wizarding school, Ilvermorny. In 2016, J.K. Rowling revealed the name of the school to fans on her Pottermore site.

In Adams, you can also visit the Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum .

This museum is dedicated to a woman who played a pivotal role in the suffragette movement. There’s a beautiful collection of postcards commemorating the suffrage, abolition, and temperance movements.

• Where to eat : Bascom Lodge, Coyote Flaco, Mezze Bistro Bar, Grazie, Poweder Hounds Restaurant
• Where to stay : Bascom Lodge, The Williams Inn, The Porches Inn

19. Hancock Shaker Village, Pittsfield

Located near the town of Pittsfield is Hancock Shaker Village . It’s a living slice of American history. The village is a restoration of a small religious community that flourished in the 19th century.

The Shakers migrated from Manchester England. They were an extremely religious sect that believed in the second coming of Christ.

The sect was dubbed the Shakers because the adherents exhibited shaking motions while listening to sermons. The Shakers were also noted pacifists. The group didn’t last forever because they eschewed sex and marriage, resulting in no heirs.

You can tour the Shaker buildings, including a group dwelling house and stone barn, and watch craftsman at work. There are thousands of Shaker artifacts on display.

• Address : 18432 West Housatonic St. Pittsfield
• Where to stay in Pittsfield : Overnight in nearly Lenox instead

20. North Adams

North Adams is a former manufacturing hub reinvented as a cutting edge art town. North Adams is known as “The Town of Steeples and Peaks,” for the spires of its many churches. Come for the art, and stay for the scenery.

North Adams’ downtown is filled with art galleries, artists studios, and cute shops. Its pride and joy is Porches Inn, an eye catching row of distinctive multi-colored Victorians.

What makes North Adams one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts is that’s it’s home to the utterly fabulous Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (“MASS MoCA”). Opened in 1999, MoCA is one of the region’s foremost cultural institutions, with an emphasis on international contemporary art.

MoCA is home to exciting works by Louise Bourgeois and Robert Rauschenberg. Entire walls are decorated by Sol LeWitt. The museum also has a permanent collection with works by the likes of Manet, Constable, Bonnard, Delacroix, Ingres, and Sargent.

In nearby Natural Bridge State Park, you can view the only natural white marble arch in North America. It was carved as a result of glacial melt over 13,000 years ago. A bridge spans Hudson Brook and twists through a 60 foot gorge.

You can also hike the Cascade Trail . The 1.2 mile trail follows Notch Brook up to a cascading waterfall (photo above). It’s an easy one hour or so trail, with one riverbank crossing.

• Where to stay in North Adams : Porches Inn , Tourists
• Where to eat in North Adams : Gramercy Bistro, Grazie, Public Eat and Drink

21. Concord: Literary Legends

Just 15 miles north of Boston is the town of Concord, a steeple-studded town home to pretty Walden Pond . Walden Pond is a nature preserve home to countless local flora and fauna. Walden Pond is both beautiful and has a unique history.

Walden Pond is forever linked to novelist Henry David Thoreau. From 1845 to 1847, he while lived in a one room cabin, the property of his friend and mentor Ralph Waldo Emerson. (A replica of the original cabin is about half a mile away.)

There, he wrote one of America’s most famous novels, Walden or Life in the Woods. Walden explored simplistic living, solitude, and harmony with nature.

In Concord, you can also visit Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House. The novelist based Little Women on her experiences growing up in this house with her sisters.

Today, the historic home is a museum. It has 80% of its original period furniture.

You can tour the kitchen, dining room, parlor, art studio, and the bedrooms. Louisa’s bedroom has the small white desk where she penned Little Women and other books.

For an overview of Concord’s Revolutionary history and literary legacy visit the excellent Concord Museum . On display, you’ll find Native American artifacts, Thoreau’s snowshoes and furniture, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s study, Paul Revere’s original signaling lantern, and period collections of decorative arts and furniture.

Concord’s Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is filled with graves of famous authors, if you want to pay them homage. You’ll find the final resting places of Thoreau, Emerson, Alcott, and William Ellery Channing.

• Where to eat : Main Streets Market & Cafe, 80 Thoreau, Woods Hill Table, Bondir
• Where to stay : Colonial Inn , Residence Inn Marriott

22. Lexington

If your’e a history buff, just northwest of Boston is historic Lexington. On April 18, 1775, patriot leader Paul Revere alerted the town that the British were coming. The next day, the first shots in the War of Independence were fired.

A renowned statue by sculptor Henry Hudson Kitson marks Battle Green , where colonial Minutemen clashed with British troops. In Minuteman National Historical Park, you can see a multimedia exhibit on the Road to Revolution.

While waiting for the British, the Minutemen and their commander, Captain Parker, gathered in the Buckman Tavern .

The interior is preserved exactly as it appeared in the 18th century, complete with the original seven foot wide open fireplace. The old front door still contains British musket-ball holes.

Built in the early 1690s, Munroe Tavern became a field hospital for the wounded. You can take a 30 mixture tour and examine period artifacts and furniture.

The Hancock-Clarke House contains period furniture of the Clarke family and Reverend John Hancock, grandfather of the signer of the Declaration of Independence.

• Where to eat : La Dolda, Il Casale, Town Meeting Bistro
• Where to stay : Inn at Hastings Park , Element Lexington

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best and most beautiful places to visit in Massachusetts. You may enjoy these other United States travel guides and resources:

• 45 amazing destinations in the United States
• Fall foliage around Washington D.C.
• 10 day itinerary for New Hampshire
• 10 day itinerary for coastal Maine
• 7-10 day itinerary for Vermont
• Hidden Gems on the East Coast
• 2 week itinerary for the American Southwest
• 10 day itinerary for southern California

​If you’d like to explore the best destinations in Massachusetts, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on March 11, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Boston   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in Boston

As Massachusetts' capital and the birthplace of the American Revolution, there's no shortage of historical sites for travelers to explore within Boston's city limits (and beyond). There's even a Boston Tea Party Museum on the harbor

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

Stretching 2½ miles, the Freedom Trail weaves past 16 of the city's most historic sites, including Faneuil Hall Marketplace , the Paul Revere House and Old North Church . Taking in all of the trail's attractions requires at least half a day (and some comfortable walking shoes), but you can easily plot points of interest before you begin your jaunt from Boston Common .

Though most visitors agree the trail is easy to navigate on your own, some recommend a guided tour or downloading an app to tell you about the sites. (You'll find a handful of apps available for Apple and Android devices.) If you have a Go Boston Card, standard guided tours given by the Freedom Trail Foundation are covered by your pass.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every Friday and Saturday, Haymarket (one America's oldest open-air markets) pops up adjacent to Faneuil Hall. In order to navigate this often-chaotic scene successfully make sure to bring small bills, leave bulky bags at the hotel and keep it moving on the sidewalk. - Jill LeGrow

Four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market – constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the oldest being Faneuil Hall. Built in 1742 and now a stop on the Freedom Trail , Faneuil Hall has had a long and important history in Massachusetts politics. Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British, and abolitionists and suffragists have stood on their soapboxes here. In fact, this is where colonists famously challenged the Stamp Act of 1764 by proclaiming, "no taxation without representation." From those illustrious days, the marketplace has expanded to include more than 100 shops and restaurants.

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

Though the Boston Public Garden sits right next to Boston Common , the two are quite different. The public garden is newer (established in 1837) and holds the distinction of being America's first public botanical garden. Flowers and trees are beautifully organized and kept in quality condition throughout. You can see the colorful arrangements and exotic trees from the 6-acre pond as you glide along the water in a Swan Boat. Additionally, the park houses two of Boston's most iconic statues: Make Way for Ducklings (a bronze sculpture of a duck and her eight ducklings) and a sculpture of George Washington (which shows America's first president riding on a horse).

Visitors looking to relax after sightseeing will enjoy the Boston Public Garden. Parkgoers say you'll find plenty of shade beneath the park's trees, which comes in handy on hot summer days. Plus, you'll likely spot some ducks and geese swimming around the lagoon. And if you have a few dollars, visitors recommend taking a 15-minute ride on a Swan Boat. The large paddle boats cost $4.50 to ride (or $3 for kids ages 2 to 15 and $4 for seniors); travelers with Go Boston Cards ride for free. Swan Boats are usually available between mid-April and Labor Day.

North End North End free

Chances are you'll end up in the North End at least once during your visit to Boston. It's steeped in the city's rich history as it holds the title of Boston's oldest neighborhood and houses three attractions on the Freedom Trail . What makes this neighborhood a top point of interest, however, is its Italian culture: The North End is considered Boston's Little Italy.

While Italians weren't the first to settle in this area (English settlers arrived first then European Jews, African Americans and Irish immigrants), their cultural influence on the North End withstood the test of time. Today, you'll find all kinds of Italian food from classic pizza pies served at the popular Regina Pizzeria to Sicilian-style seafood, such as black linguine (made with squid ink) and calamari meatballs at The Daily Catch . For dinner, try Mamma Maria for fine dining, Giacomo's for its affordable, made-in-house pasta or Bricco , which sources its meats and bread from its own meat and bread shop, located right next door. If you’re only interested in pizza, hit up Galleria Umberto for delectable solo slices or Antico Forno for its full-size, wood-fired pies. Prezza is known for its extensive wine list, boasting hundreds of wine labels to choose from. For dessert, make sure to pick up a cannoli at Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry , or tiramisu at the 24-hour Bova's Bakery .

Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Fine Arts

If you want to make the most out of the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most comprehensive art institutions in the country, then you'll need to spend a good chunk of your day here. The museum is home to one of the best art collections in the world, including the celebrated Art of the Americas wing. Inside this sprawling collection, you'll encounter galleries showcasing iconic pieces from indigenous cultures in North, South and Central America to works by contemporary artists like Edward Hopper.

You'll also find an impressive collection of Asian art here, plus works from Monet, Renoir, Manet and Rembrandt on display. And in special temporary exhibits, you can admire masterpieces from Black artists like Diedrick Brackens and Picasso, among others.

Boston Common Boston Common free

The grounds of Boston Common started as a cow pasture in the mid-1600s. It was also used for Puritan punishments, like whipping, and even for hangings. In 1768, the area was transformed into a British camp. After the Revolutionary War, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies. Now, the Common is best known because of its status as the oldest public park in the country. You'll also find a variety of activities and events – including theater and musical performances and free fitness classes – hosted here throughout the year. If you plan to traverse the Freedom Trail , you'll start the walk here at Boston Common.

Though some visitors say you won't find much to do in this park, Boston Common is great for picnics or a leisurely stroll. Travelers also mention that this site is a wonderful spot to take young children. In addition to ample running room on the park's green space, kids can play at the Tadpole Playground or Frog Pond. Frog Pond offers a spray pool during the warmer months and an ice skating rink in the winter. Some visitors do note that the park tends to draw Boston's homeless population, particularly at night.

Best Boston Tours

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March 14, 2024

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June 26, 2023

Fenway Park Fenway Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to watch a Sox game without a ticket, head to the Bleacher Bar on Lansdowne Street. Located beneath the bleachers of Fenway, the best tables are positioned directly in front of the huge garage window that overlook centerfield. – Jill LeGrow

Fans of America's favorite pastime won't want to miss a game at Fenway Park. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this stadium has been the site of home runs, stolen bases and grounders since 1912. Regardless of whether or not you're a diehard Red Sox fan, you should try to catch a game and admire the ballpark's original architecture. Must-see features of the park include Pesky's Pole – the right field foul pole named after former Red Sox player Johnny Pesky – and the 37-foot-tall "Green Monster" wall in left field.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

After Isabella Stewart Gardner's husband died in 1898, the art enthusiast carried out their plan to buy land in Boston's Fenway area and open a museum to display her impressive collection of Italian art. The museum, which was fashioned after the Palazzo Barbaro in Venice , was completed in 1901, at which point Gardner moved in to the fourth floor and began installing her collection. Today, you can visit this Boston museum to get your fill of the Italian masters, such as Raphael and Titian. The building also showcases a cache of beautiful furniture, photographs, sculpture and rare books straight from Europe. The museum's New Wing, designed by Renzo Piano, includes a glass atrium, greenhouses and landscaped gardens.

The art isn't the only interesting thing here: the museum is also the site of the single largest property theft on Earth. In the wee hours of March 18, 1990, two thieves made their way into the museum disguised as police. The duo stole 13 works, including pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Degas and Manet. Today, the museum has empty frames on the walls as placeholders until the art returns to the museum. As you may have guessed, the crime has not been solved and the works haven't been recovered. The museum is even offering a sizable reward ($10 million) for information leading to the art. 

Boston Public Library Boston Public Library free

A library isn't always all about books. The main branch of the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, which opened in 1895, is so much more, according to recent visitors who call the architecture "beautiful" and a “must-see.” Walking into the Renaissance Revival building is akin to visiting a museum. On Dartmouth Street, two immense stone lions sculpted by Louis Saint-Gaudens stand guard by the main entrance. Inside, Bates Hall, the library's main reference reading room, is a 218-foot-long room with a barrel-arch ceiling soaring 50 feet high.

Visitors can take a free tour and learn all about the murals found throughout the library, including John Singer Sargent's series on the "Triumph of Religion." Other murals include works by French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, who depicted eight library-centric disciplines in "The Muses of Inspiration," and Edwin Austin Abbey's "The Quest and Achievement of the Holy Grail."

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

A must for any history buffs or fans of our nation's 35th president, this excellent library and museum details the life of President John F. Kennedy. Exhibits include his presidential papers; masses of Kennedy memorabilia, including re-creations of his desk in the Oval Office and of the television studio in which he debated Richard M. Nixon in the 1960 election; and artifacts from the U.S. space program. There's permanent display on the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis plus plenty of other artifacts and information about Kennedy's life and presidency. The building itself is quite striking and was designed by architect I. M. Pei.

Museumgoers say that while the museum is off the beaten path (it sits about 5 miles south of downtown on Columbia Point), it is well worth the trek thanks to the exhibits and staff. However, some wish the exhibits had a more detailed explanation of Kennedy and events during his life. The views from the museum are amazing, add some visitors.

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

If you want to get outdoors in the greater Boston area, consider hopping a ferry (which operates from mid-May through mid-October) to the Boston Harbor Islands. This collection of 34 islands located in the Massachusetts Bay boasts plenty of things to do and see including historic sites, hiking trails, beaches, wildlife and much more. Popular islands include Spectacle, Georges and Peddocks, though ferries also go to Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin and Thompson.

The 114-acre Spectacle Island is a great option for those looking to hike. Here, you'll find 5 miles of trails, including one which leads to the harbor's highest hill, offering incredible views of Boston's skyline. If you’re looking for a place where you can sink your toes into the sand, head to Lovells Island. Here, you’ll find secluded shorelines as well as tide pools (when it's low tide, a whopping 71 acres are added to the island's land mass). Meanwhile, history lovers will enjoy a trip to Georges Island. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren, which the U.S. government used for patrolling and training Union troops as well as housing Confederate prisoners during Civil War times. Peddocks Island, one of the largest of the Boston Harbor Islands, offers a little bit of everything. This island is considered a prime camping spot and features scenic hiking trails that pass through coastal forests, headlands connected by tombolos and the biggest beach of any island. You'll also find a little bit of history thanks to Fort Andrews and a restored chapel from World War II.

Newbury Street Newbury Street free

Located in the Back Bay along eight blocks between Massachusetts Avenue and Arlington Street, Newbury Street is home to gorgeous 19th century brownstones. It's also Boston's premiere destination for dining and shopping. Newbury Street has been called one of the most expensive streets in the world, thanks in large part to the significant cluster of expensive shops on the lower end (by numbered address) nearest Arlington Street.

Starting at the higher end, by Massachusetts Avenue, you'll find more budget-friendly retailers like TJ Maxx and Forever 21, as well longtime local favorites Newbury Comics and Trident Booksellers. In fact, Newbury Comics' opening in 1978 was the catalyst that began the transformation of Newbury Street from a heavily upper-class retail destination to a hipper, trendier spot for everyone.

Samuel Adams Brewery Samuel Adams Brewery

Despite its location outside of city center, visiting the Samuel Adams Brewery is a popular stop for beer lovers. This brewery location acts as Samuel Adams' testing facility for new and specialty brews, which patrons can try. You can also take a guided tour of the facility to learn more about the brewing process.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, odds are you'll enjoy a visit to this brewery. Visitors say the staff is knowledgeable, but note there can be long entry lines.

Cambridge Cambridge free

Cambridge, which sits about 3 miles northwest of Boston's city center, is home to both Harvard University and MIT , but there's more to see in Cambridge than just the schools themselves. The city features an impressive array of cultural institutions that feature collections and exhibitions ranging from fine art to technological innovations.

The Harvard Art Museums , which include the Fogg Museum, Busch-Reisinger Museum and Arthur M. Sackler Museum, house a wide range of periods, styles and mediums within its walls. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern photography, 13th century sculpture, paintings from legends like Georgia O’Keeffe, Picasso and Jackson Pollock, and much more. If you prefer history, head to the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology , which boasts exhibits exploring everything from ancient Latin American cultures to the evolution of American eating habits and tableware to the lives of Native Americans. If science is more your speed, head to the Harvard Museum of Natural History to view dinosaur fossils, rare minerals and animal specimens from New England to Asia.

Beacon Hill Beacon Hill free

Beacon Hill is arguably Boston's most beautiful neighborhood. Located north of Boston Common , Beacon Hill is awash with quaint, cobblestone-lined alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses affixed with bay view windows and vibrant, flower-filled window boxes. It's Beacon Hill's incredible style, a stunning mix of Federal and Greek revival architecture, that make this neighborhood an attraction in and of itself. And recent visitors couldn't agree more.

Travelers who venture to Beacon Hill are charmed by its beauty and say that it's the perfect place to take a long stroll and wander around. While here, make sure to make your way to noteworthy spots including the picturesque Louisburg Square and Acorn Street, the latter of which is one of the most photographed places in Boston. After, head down Charles Street, where you'll find restaurants, shops and bars. Fans of the TV show "Cheers" will want to walk down Beacon Street to find the bar that inspired the program.

Old North Church Old North Church

Most people who know anything about American history have heard of Paul Revere's famous midnight ride, when he rode through town to warn people about the arrival of British troops. Before heading off to Lexington, Revere gave orders at Old North Church. Robert Newman – the church's sexton – and Captain John Pulling Jr. – the church's vestryman – then climbed the steeple and held two lanterns as a signal that the British were indeed coming, but by sea.

The church itself, which is officially named Christ Church, is filled with beautiful relics from the past, including North America's oldest set of change ringing bells and chandeliers brought in from England in the early 1700s. The pews have a long history as well; Pew No. 54 was reserved for Paul Revere's son.

Boston Children's Museum Boston Children's Museum

With a giant milk bottle structure at the front of the building, it's hard to miss the Boston Children's Museum. Here, hands-on exhibits present a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about various sciences, culture, art and health and wellness, among other subjects. Among the museum's standout exhibits are "Construction Zone," where little ones can learn about and play with kid-sized construction equipment, "The Common," where kids play with color, games and music, and "Japanese House" – a 100-year-old authentic Japanese house reconstructed in Boston by Japanese carpenters.

Museumgoers praise the variety of engaging exhibits tailored to kids within different age groups and can't recommend it enough. Others warn the museum gets crowded, especially in the summer.

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway free

Boston is packed with cool outdoor spaces, but this nearly 1½-mile-long series of parks and gardens offers more than most. The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway was established to link Boston's diverse neighborhoods through a series of lawns, parks and walkways that occupy a former highway tunnel. Since opening in 2008, visitors have flocked to this sprawling green space to enjoy temporary public art displays, bubbling fountains, numerous food vendors and a carousel. Plus, the park offers free weekly events, including food and art festivals, summer concert performances and seasonal fitness classes.

Many previous visitors said the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway not only offers a much-needed respite from the city, but also an easy way to explore Boston with kids during the warmer months. And, in many sections of the Greenway, you're never more than a few steps away from the Freedom Trail .

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

This hands-on museum offers an entertaining look at one of Boston's pivotal moments. You can toss (fake) tea overboard, climb around replica ships and converse with period actors about Colonial issues. Exhibits at the museum, which is located on Griffin's Wharf (close to where the actual Tea Party occurred on Dec. 16, 1773) include 3D holograms, talking portraits and the Robinson Tea Chest, an authentic tea chest from the Boston Tea Party. Two of the three ships have been recreated, the Beaver and the Eleanor, which are fun to explore. The film "Let It Begin Here" depicts the events that immediately preceded the American Revolution. You can also grab a cup of tea or a snack in Abigail's Tea Room, which has one of the best views of the harbor around.

Visitors love the interactive nature of the museum and tossing tea overboard, saying their time there was entertaining for all ages. They also add that the guides are informative and stay in character.

Museum of Science Museum of Science

If you're traveling with young ones in tow, be sure to swing by the Museum of Science. Here, kids can learn about astronomy, earth sciences and anatomy, not to mention participate in some fun interactive exhibits. Budding scientists can examine the Arctic in "Arctic Adventure: Exploring with Technology" exhibit or play on swings to learn about physics in "Science in the Park." The museum also features the Charles Hayden Planetarium, where you can indulge your inner astronaut during shows. Meanwhile, at the Mugar Omni Theater, you'll feel like you're actually in the IMAX film thanks to its cutting-edge sound technology and five-story-high projection screen.

Although the museum is very kid-focused, past visitors said that young-at-heart adults and even teens will get a kick out of the museum's engaging displays and shows. Though most travelers spend about half a day exploring the museum, you could easily allocate an entire day to this attraction. Also, remember that separate tickets (which cost extra) are needed for some museum features, such as IMAX films, planetarium shows and the Garden Walk and Insect Zoo.

Boston Duck Tours Boston Duck Tours

Wander Boston for a couple of hours and you're sure to see a Duck Tour quacking its way through the streets (and waterways). These "Truck Duck" vehicles recreate the look of a DUKW truck used by the U.S. military during World War II and transport tourists all over the city by land and water. The tours drive past a number of landmark sites including the Old State House, Newbury Street , Prudential Tower, Public Garden and the Swan Boats, and Copley Square (home to the Boston Public Library ). Once launched into the water, you'll cruise down the Charles River checking out MIT, the Longfellow Bridge, as well as the Esplanade and the Hatch Shell. 

Besides giving tours around the city, Boston Duck Tour boats have been used in all of the victory parades since 2002 for the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins (the city's major teams for football, baseball, basketball and hockey, respectively). What started off simply as a way to roll the Patriots through downtown Boston for a Superbowl celebration has turned into a much-loved tradition that continues today.

Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Symphony Orchestra

Even if you're not a classical music aficionado, you can't miss attending one of the Boston Symphony Orchestra's world-renowned performances at Symphony Hall. The BSO began performing in 1881. Today, the symphony performs everything from family shows to traditional concerts and Boston Pops – a lively performance filled with singing and a variety of music. The BSO performs at Symphony Hall from September through April, then heads to Tanglewood (which is about 130 miles west of Boston) in the summer.

Past spectators not only praised the world-class talent, but also noted the impressive acoustics of Symphony Hall as a main selling point for attending future concerts. If you can't score tickets to an orchestra performance, consider taking a free tour of Symphony Hall. Tours, which are offered in the fall, winter and spring, provide information about the property, as well as insight into the orchestra's musicians and conductors.

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

Gaze up at the six 54-foot glass towers that comprise the New England Holocaust Memorial, and you're bound to be awestruck. Dedicated in 1995, each haunting tower is etched with numbers. The 6 million numbers represent the Holocaust's victims, while the towers represent the six major death camps. There is also a granite path covered in quotes from survivors that leads visitors inside the towers.

Recent visitors described walking through the columns as an emotionally charged and unforgettable experience. The monument's location next to Faneuil Hall Marketplace makes it very accessible while walking the Freedom Trail .

Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

For a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1700s, head to Paul Revere's former residence in the North End . The house, which is situated on the Freedom Trail , offers insight into how homes looked in Revere's time (it's even filled with period pieces, including fine silver). Inside, history fans can admire the building's sweeping beams, spacious fireplaces and some original furnishings owned by the Revere family.

If you like American history, travelers say you'll enjoy seeing the Paul Revere House. This house is small, though, so don't allot more than an hour to tour the property. Docents are friendly and knowledgeable.

Massachusetts State House Massachusetts State House free

The golden-domed Massachusetts State House is an important building for many reasons and is one of the stops on the Freedom Trail . The land it sits on was originally used as John Hancock’s cow pasture. It was designed by Charles Bulfinch and completed in 1798 and the cornerstone was laid by Samuel Adams in 1795. A copper dome was installed by Paul Revere in 1802 (later covered in gold). Nowadays, senators, state representatives and the governor conduct the Commonwealth's business here.

Free tours are offered by docents who explain the building's history and discuss the important art and architecture within. Make sure to look for the Sacred Cod in the House of Representatives Chamber. The almost 5-foot wooden cod symbolizes the importance of the salt cod industry to the area.

New England Aquarium New England Aquarium

Your kids will find plenty to love at the New England Aquarium, starting with the Atlantic harbor seals that hang out just beyond the ticket booth. Inside, you'll find thousands of marine critters to study, and at the center: the Giant Ocean Tank. This four-story tank includes a coral reef habitat that houses more than 1,000 underwater creatures including green sea turtles, eels and barracuda. In other parts of the aquarium, you'll find exhibits dedicated to penguins, sea jellies and seadragons, plus a six-story high projection movie screen with digital surround sound, where you can watch films about sea creatures and more. And don't forget to check out the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, which allows visitors to graze sharks and rays as they swim by.

While some visitors bemoan the aquarium's compact size (which, in turn, made for thick crowds), many appreciate the attraction's variety of animals. Several travelers also recommend watching a penguin or seal feeding.

USS Constitution USS Constitution free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every July 4th, the USS Constitution takes her annual "turnaround" sail in Boston Harbor. The particular sail is the only one open to the public and the US Navy holds a lottery with the lucky winners getting to board "Old Ironsides." – Jill LeGrow

History lovers, boat enthusiasts and military aficionados alike can't miss the chance to board the USS Constitution. Docked at the Boston National Historical Park in Charlestown, this historic vessel is the world's oldest commissioned warship still operational today. It is helmed by United States Navy sailors, who also serve as the ship's guides. The ship's accompanying museums displays nearly 2,000 artifacts related to the ship's history.

Bunker Hill Monument Bunker Hill Monument free

Bunker Hill Monument is part of the Boston National Historical Park and a stop on the Freedom Trail . The first major battle of the American Revolution took place on Breed's Hill in June 1775, though originally it was supposed to take place on nearby Bunker Hill. Names aside, the British won the battle but fared worse than their American foes. The British sacrificed about nearly half of their 2,400 men; American casualties were between 300 and 500 out of an army of 1,400 to 1,800 soldiers. Construction of the monument started in 1827 and was completed in 1842. The 221-foot granite obelisk offers fabulous views from its observatory, though you have to work for it by climbing 294 steps to the top.

Start your visit at the Bunker Hill Museum, located across the street. Exhibits explain the Battle of Bunker Hill, the construction of the monument, and the history of Charlestown. Free tickets are required to climb the monument and you can also pick them up at the museum. Visitors enjoy the museum and say the monument is awe-inspiring and the grounds beautiful.

View Boston View Boston

U.S. News Insider Tip: To save some cash on your sightseeing, pick up a Boston CityPass which allows you to visit up to four attractions (such as the Museum of Science , New England Aquarium , Boston Harbor City Cruise and View Boston) for one discounted price. – Jill LeGrow

Replacing the iconic Top of the Hub restaurant and Skywalk Observatory that closed in 2020, View Boston opened in June 2023 to offer 360 panoramic views of Boston from atop the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Taking over the top three floors of the Prudential Center, View Boston includes an observatory, a wraparound roof deck and indoor/outdoor cocktail bar called Stratus, and a floor with interactive exhibits such as a projection-mapped 3D model of Boston. There's also Beacon, a bistro offering seasonal beverages and food.

The Mapparium The Mapparium

Located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story, stained glass globe never fails to elicit wonder. Designed by the architect of the Christian Science Publishing Society building, Chester Lindsay Churchill, the globe depicts the world as it was in 1935.

The "How Do You See the World" experience includes the globe; the "Our World: Mapping Progress," which highlights humanity's achievements since 1935; and "Points of Progress," where you can learn about significant events in human rights, scientific advances, exploration, and other fields. A 10-minute audio narration features clips from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jane Goodall, Wangari Maathai (a Kenyan Nobel laureate) and others. One of the coolest features of the globe is that it is a "whispering gallery." Stand at one end of the gallery while a friend stands at the other. Whisper something to them and they will be the only one to hear it.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Massachusetts (MA) » 17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Massachusetts

17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Massachusetts

Massachusetts , also known as The Bay State, The Old Colony State, The Puritan State and The Baked Bean State, has a lot to see and explore. Have a look of these awesome pictures of places to visit!

1. Rockport

Rockport is one of the most beautifully charming towns in the state of Massachusetts. Located right at the tip of the Cape Ann peninsula, north-east of Boston , Rockport is a popular tourist spot. Many miles of soft sand beaches attract people to the town, which also has some of the best hikes in this part of the United States. Rockport’s coastal locale means it is ideal for kayaking and scuba diving, but many visitors will just want to kick back and relax in this stunning place.

2. Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail

Hiking down the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail is an ideal leisure activity on a hot Massachusetts day. Based around the site of a former US Army base, Cape Wellfleet, the trail is home to a wide range of forest birds. At the end of the walk is the Marconi Station Site, which provides a fantastic place to look out across the Atlantic Ocean, with unforgettable views and a perfect photo opportunity. The trail is flat, making it easy for beginners, and just over a mile long.

3. Sturbridge

Sturbridge is one of the most historic towns in Massachusetts and visiting it is like stepping back in time. Unique boutiques and antique shops are easy to spend hours exploring, while the living museum at Old Sturbridge Village is a must-visit too, where costumed guides give tourists a taste of life in the 19th century. Just outside Sturbridge itself is Wells State Park, which boasts a gorgeous pond where canoeing and swimming is permitted. Sturbridge is one of the best spots in Massachusetts to experience old-fashioned New England charm.

4. North Point Park

Cambridge itself is one of the most beautiful places in Massachusetts, but visitors who want to experience the best the city has to offer should head to North Point Park. Located on the Charles River, the park has only been open for a few years but has already become a very popular spot. The Zakim Bridge and the Museum of Science are among the sights that can be seen from the vantage point within the park’s grounds. A beautiful place to while away a quiet afternoon.

5. Cohasset

Cohasset might just the quintessential New England town, with its picture perfect sights drawing many tourists every year. But Cohasset is probably best known for its numerous superb beaches, many of which have been kept private to be enjoyed by local residents. Sandy Beach, known as the Jewel in the Crown in Cohasset, is open to the public – although visitors need to be accompanied by a resident. The vintage carousel and arcades at Nantasket Beach are well worth a visit too, while Cohasset’s other attractions include the white clock tower at the beautiful First Parish Meeting House.

6. Cape Cod

Cape Cod is one of the romantic places in the United States, drawing countless tourists to Massachusetts every summer. Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are among the most picturesque locations in the world, with Cape Cod’s mix of superb cuisine, gorgeous beaches and conservation spots making it an ideal holiday location. Cape Cod Bay is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, while Falmouth and Provincetown tend to be busier, with lively nightlife options.

7. Hammond Castle

Hammond Castle, found in Gloucester , was the home of one of the great American inventors, John Hays Hammond Jr, who was at the forefront of developing remote control technology. Today, the castle is home to a museum that displays Roman, medieval, and Renaissance artifacts collected by Hammond himself, while every October to mark Halloween the castle hosts a haunted house tour. Self-guided tours allow visitors to explore the castle themselves.

8. Bartholomew’s Cobble

A National Natural Landmark, Bartholomew’s Cobble is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places to visit in Massachusetts. The highest point of the Cobble – which was created by geological upheavals – provides amazing views across the Housatonic River Valley. There are five miles of trails to try out and the most challenging of them is up to the Hurlburt’s Hill summit. The interpretive center and museum at Bartholomew’s Cobble are also well worth checking out.

9. Townsend, Massachusetts

• Townsend, Massachusetts

10. Palmer Island Light Station

Palmer Island is home to one of the most historic lighthouses in America. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Palmer Island Light Station can be found at the northern point of Palmer’s Island in New Bedford Harbor. After undergoing an extensive refurbishment project, the Palmer Island Light Station is being used once more, now as a private aid to navigation.

11. Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is probably the most famous tourist location in the state and it is the jewel of the improbably gorgeous Cape Cod region. Typically referred to simply as The Vineyard, it takes a bit of an effort to reach but it is well worth the trip. The ferry to Martha’s Vineyard can be a rough ride, but the difficult journey is all part of the charm of the tiny island. Sunsets on The Vineyard are particularly beautiful, with the East Chop Lighthouse in Oak Bluffs one of the best places on the island to watch the sun go down. The beautiful small towns of Chilmark and Aquinnah are also worth visiting for anyone who wants to see Martha’s Vineyard at its most authentic and unspoiled.

12. Fall in Massachusetts

Fall is perhaps the best time of the year to explore Massachusetts as this is when the Bay State looks at its finest. The beautiful river valleys that are dotted all over the state are ideal places to watch the leaves steadily change colour and drop from the trees. The Central region of Massachusetts and the Berkshire Mountains are the best places to experience fall in Massachusetts, while Route 2, otherwise known as the Mohawk Trail, is a must-visit.

13. Provincetown

Provincetown has a tiny population in the off-season, but in the summer months as many as 60,000 people live in this gorgeous New England town. Sometimes referred to as P-town or P’town, the LGBTQ community particularly adore Provincetown because of its laid-back, accepting, relaxed feel. The Atlantic House in Provincetown is regarded as the oldest gay bar in the whole of the States, while many of Cape Cod’s best beaches are also located here, with Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach particularly highly recommended.

14. Plimoth Plantation

Anyone interested in history should make time to spend a day at the Plimoth Plantation living museum, which gives visitors the chance to experience what life was like in the 17th century. Among the most interesting of the attractions at the museum is a re-creation of a Wampanoag home site, where Native People explain all about how the Wampanoag’s ancestors lived. The museum is also home to the Mayflower II, which is docked near the purported Plymouth Rock. The incredible ship is among the world’s oldest wooden vessels that still sails.

15. Old State House, Boston

Boston’s Old State House is one of the oldest surviving public buildings in the United States. Dating back more than 400 years, the building – sometimes known as Boston’s Towne House – is now run as a Boston history museum by the Bostonian Society. The Old State House is among the landmarks on Boston’s Freedom Trail and visiting is a must for anyone who wants to learn more about the colonial history of the country. Most famously, The Declaration of Independence was made from the balcony of Boston’s Old State House.

16. Longfellow’s Wayside Inn

The Wayside Inn claims to be the oldest operating inn in the country, with the building featuring a mix of British colonial and Greek Revivalist architecture. The inn dates back 400 years and one of its key features is the ancient grist mill outside. The last private owner of the Wayside Inn was Henry Ford, who wanted to develop the site into a historically oriented village and museum. The inn remains open as a restaurant and guests can even stay over in historically accurate rooms.

Farm, Carlisle, MA

17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Massachusetts:

• Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail
• North Point Park
• Hammond Castle
• Bartholomew's Cobble
• Palmer Island Light Station
• Martha's Vineyard
• Fall in Massachusetts
• Provincetown
• Plimoth Plantation
• Old State House, Boston
• Longfellow's Wayside Inn

New England Wanderlust

Fall , Massachusetts  ·  June 16, 2023

Fall In Massachusetts Ultimate Guide: 35 Things To Do & Places To Visit! (2024)

What I love about fall in Massachusetts is the amazing variety of things to do, and whether you’re looking for epic fall foliage, an off-season trip to the coast, breathtaking mountain views, or a cozy getaway in the woods – you can find it all in Massachusetts. Not to mention, it’s home to the most exciting Halloween destination in New England – Salem!

This post is my round-up of all the best places for fall foliage in Massachusetts, as well as the best things to do in autumn to celebrate this wonderful season. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s start planning your perfect fall getaway to the Bay State!

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Best Time To See Fall Foliage In Massachusetts

First thing’s first, if you’re looking for the best fall foliage in Massachusetts, you’ll need to know when to plan your visit. The short answer is – it depends, but generally the first two weeks of October is a safe bet for most places in Massachusetts.

For places like The Berkshires, you’ll want to plan your trip around the second week of October to try and see peak foliage, and for places around the central part of the state, the second to third week of October is ideal.

For places like Boston, and the North Shore region, including Salem, mid to late October is typically prime foliage season, and it can sometimes last through the beginning of November in these areas.

As always in all my fall posts, I like to mention that peak foliage times are never guaranteed from year to year. It’s all based on weather and temperatures throughout the year, and it can vary a bit. So these timelines are general suggestions.

Where To Go For Fall Foliage In Massachusetts

While there are more places all over the state to see amazing fall foliage, this list is my narrowed down, best-of-the-best when it comes to the most bang for your buck in terms of seeing fall color. In no particular order, here’s where I suggest you go while leaf-peeping in Massachusetts:

1. The Berkshires

An iconic mountain region in the northwestern part of the state, The Berkshires is home to absolutely incredible fall foliage, and makes my list of the best places to visit in New England . But on top of that, it’s also a great destination for charming towns, quiet getaways, hiking, nature, and impressive restaurants. If you’re looking for a fall getaway in nature, this is the place to go.

The Berkshires also has some absolutely wonderful places to stay to make your getaway even more memorable. You can either book a cozy cabin in the woods, or stay at a variety of inns and B&B’s, ranging from traditional and homey, to modern and Instagram-worthy.

Some notable things to check out in The Berkshires in the fall season are:

→ The Mount Greylock summit, which you can drive to, or hike up

→ The Mohawk Trail scenic drive (more on both of these later, though!)

→ Drive Route 7 from Williamstown to Sheffield

→ Hilltop Orchards for cider

→ Field Farm and Sheep Hill scenic walks in Williamstown

→ The Ashuwillticook Rail Trail

Check out the “Where To Stay” section at the end for my recommendations on the best places to stay in The Berkshires!

2. Sturbridge

One of the coziest places to visit in Massachusetts during foliage season is Old Sturbridge Village, which is a recreation of a New England town in the early 1800s, and spans over 200 acres. You’ll find a covered bridge here, historic homes, and plenty of fall color to go around. For a peek at what New England life was like back in the day, this is such a wonderful experience to have (even if you’re not a history buff!).

During the fall season, they also have fun events to check starting in September, including their Harvest Fest, and their very cool Phantoms by Firelight event, which takes place on Friday and Saturday nights in October.

During Fall Fest, you’ll find all things apple at Old Sturbridge, including cider samples, apple-infused treats at their café, live music, and more. Fall Fest is just one weekend in September, so be sure to mark your calendars!

Phantoms by Firelight is the best event at OSV, however, because you can time your visit with peak foliage season. I loved my experience here in 2023, and found the ghost stories by firelight, carnival games, fire-breathing acts, and the Clues and Candy Hunt to be filled with fall spirit.

Just outside of Old Sturbridge Village, you’ll also find Sawdust Coffee & Dessert Bar, which also has fun fall drink special and delicious baked goods, as well as tree House Brewing just down the road in Charlton (spoiler alert, I talk about it later, but it’s the best brewery in New England 😉).

Sturbridge makes for a day trip, and can be reached in just over an hour from The Berkshires, and just under two hours from Boston.

3. Deerfield

Deerfield is a quaint town exploding with fall color in autumn. You can also step back in time here and visit the Historic Deerfield museum, which is home to historic buildings, and feels especially charming in the fall. Some of the houses are decorated with giant pumpkins and gourds, which is really fun to see (and also makes for the quintessential New England photo!).

Just 10 minutes outside of Deerfield, you can also visit Poet’s Seat Tower in Greenfield , which is spectacular in the fall season. You can hike or drive up, and once you arrive at the top, you’re greeted with an awesome bird’s eye view of the area dripping in fall color.

You’re also only about 25 minutes from charming Shelburne Falls, which has lovely foliage mountain views.

Famous for Louisa May Alcott, Walden Pond, and ties to the Revolutionary War, Concord is such a quaint little place that’s filled with serene things to do, and you guessed it … fall foliage. You’ll find lots of historic homes here as well, which just always makes you feel like you’re in the heart of New England.

Of course, Walden Pond should be at the top of your list for a fall visit. Not only will you find bright fall color surrounding the pond, it’s such a peaceful way to spend a lovely fall afternoon.

Just a few mins away from Concord in the nearby town of Lexington, you’ll also find some very festive fall things to do. The Battle Trail at the Minute Man National Historical Park is wonderful during fall foliage season. And a few minutes from that path, you can head over to Wilson Farms, which is an incredible farm store that’s especially exciting in the fall season.

Fall in Boston is really quite spectacular, especially if it’s a city vibe you’re after. And even though it’s an urban environment, there’s plenty of fall foliage to be had, including at the Public Gardens, Boston Common, and the Charles River Esplanade.

And what I love about autumn in Boston is that it still can feel very homey. The Beacon Hill neighborhood, especially, is filled with picturesque streets worthy of postcards, and stoops decorated with beautiful pumpkin displays.

Since Boston is also in a great location, it’s accessible to most of the places on this list, making it a great starting point for an epic New England fall road trip, or a vacation around Massachusetts in the fall.

6. Newburyport

One destination I don’t think gets enough credit in the fall season (or any season, really!) is Newburyport. I say this every time I mention this great little city, but it’s a place that feels more like a quaint town, and definitely gives you all the Hallmark movie set vibes.

Newburyport has gorgeous fall foliage, especially in its waterfront park, and Maudslay State Park . It’s also home to amazing shopping, dining, and beautiful scenery. During the fall season, they have fun events in town, and also host an awesome Oyster Fest (which I get more into later in the post!).

While exploring the North Shore, an honorable mention goes to Manchester-By-The-Sea for fall foliage , too. While small, the downtown area is very cozy, and the waterfront and harbor is bursting with stunning fall color.

Between Springfield and The Berkshires, you’ll find the cute little city of Amherst, which is most famous for being the home of poet Emily Dickinson. While you can (and should!) tour her family’s homestead, there are also some really fun fall things to do around the city.

One of the best ways to enjoy fall foliage in Amherst is to bike one of the rail trails, and I especially love the Norwottuck Rail Trail. This 11-mile paved trail is pretty flat, making it great for all skill levels, and takes you over a beautiful bridge offering river views backdropped by foliage, and through other scenic areas.

Another great rail trail nearby is the Manhan Rail Trail, which is in Easthampton. This one is also great for foliage color along the path.

Mount Holyoke Range State Park, is another wonderful foliage place to check out in Amherst, and offers plenty of trails to explore for a day out in nature.

You’ll also be able to find all kinds apple orchards nearby in this area, and explore the cute little downtown area for shops and restaurants.

I think Ipswich is another underrated destination in New England, and it also boasts amazing fall color this time of the year. Ipswich is often regarded as a coastal town, but it has such beautiful farm lands and parks to explore, making this a great place to visit in the fall, too. It’s also only about 30 minutes from Salem, if you’re looking for a day trip to take from there.

Two of my favorite places to visit in the fall in Ipswich are Russell Orchards and Appleton Farms, and they’re only 10 minutes apart from one another. Appleton Farms is owned by the Trustees, and is one of the oldest continually-operating farms in the entire country. Here, you’ll find picturesque rural scenery that’s worthy of a postcard, and miles of walking trails that are ablaze with fall color. They also have a cute little farm store to shop from before you leave.

Russell Orchards is part winery and part farm store, and 100% worth a stop! In the fall season, you can pick your own apples, and get some cider doughnuts from their bakery. They also have all kinds of fall treats and decorations available, like pumpkins, gourds, mums, ice cream and local products. Be sure to swing by their winery for a tasting, too!

Also in Ipswich, you can tour the gorgeous Crane Estate, visit the Wolf Hollow sanctuary, and sip on seasonal crafts brews at True North Ale Company.

9. Quabbin Reservoir – A Hidden Gem!

One foliage spot in Massachusetts that not as many people know about is the Quabbin Reservoir. And man, the fall color here is amazing! This reservoir is the largest body of water in Massachusetts (besides the coastline, of course), and is one of the biggest suppliers of unfiltered water in the entire country.

During your visit, you have access to over 100 miles of scenic trails here that are perfect for walking and biking, as well as awesome overlooks to enjoy the scenery from different perspectives.

Quabbin Reservoir is located pretty much smack dab in the middle of state, so it’s easy to make a day trip here from most places mentioned in this post, or to incorporate into your fall itinerary while touring Massachusetts.

Best Things To Do In The Fall In Massachusetts

Okay, now that we have my favorite fall foliage destinations out of the way, let’s get into all the most fun things to do in Massachusetts in the fall season!

10. Visit Salem In October

I mean, this is a given, right?

Not that it needs an introduction, but I do think that experiencing Salem in October is something everyone in New England should do at least once. I’m not especially big into Halloween (I love fall, but I’m mostly into Halloween for the candy 😉), but even I kind of love Salem during the month of October.

Between spooky ghost tours, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Hocus Pocus filming locations, Halloween events during Haunted Happenings, wonderful restaurants, tons more history, and New England charm everywhere, Salem is really the perfect October experience to have in Massachusetts.

Pro Tips For Visiting Salem in October:

→ It’s going to be crowded. This was a shock to me the first time I went in October (not sure why, exactly!). But book well in advance, make dining reservations ASAP, and anticipate lots and lots of people everywhere.

→ If you’re in Boston, or staying in Boston, I love to recommend this Boston to Salem ferry . It takes less than an hour, and it saves you the hassle of finding parking in Salem. This is especially handy on the weekends.

→ Salem fall foliage is usually and its best closer to mid-late October, which perfectly coincides with Halloween festivities!

Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip , and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information 😉

11. Drive The Mohawk Trail

The Mohawk Trail is one of the most, if not the most, scenic drives in all of Massachusetts during the fall season. Located in The Berkshires region, this drive begins in Williamstown, ends in Greenfield, and spans over 60 miles of gorgeous views.

The drive also stops by some of the best towns to visit in The Berkshires area, including Shelburne Falls and North Adams. And what I love about this drive is that there are so many things to do along the way, including awesome breweries, cideries, coffee places, restaurants, and plenty of scenic overlooks where you’ll want to have your camera ready.

One of the best places for incredible views is the Whitcomb Summit, which is the highest point along the route. Be sure to stop here to take in all the gorgeous fall color!

12. Have A Cozy Cabin Getaway

The Berkshires is also the best destination in Massachusetts for a cozy cabin getaway, which just feels especially perfect once the chilly fall weather sets in. And this region has so many wonderful cabins and places to rent that you’re sure to find the perfect one for you.

Whether you’re hoping for small place that’s a romantic hideaway for two, or a bigger retreat for a family gathering, there’s definitely a little something for everyone.

And with The Berkshires, you’re never too far away from a cute town with great farm-to-table dining, or a relaxing, scenic hike. So, pick whichever house calls to you, and then take things from there.

🍁 Click here to browse the best places for a fall foliage Berkshires escape

13. Enjoy The Foliage Views From A Mountain Peak

There are some awesome mountain peaks in Massachusetts that offer incredible views year-round, but are especially epic in the fall season with foliage colors.

The Mount Greylock summit in The Berkshires is one of the best to check out, as it’s the highest point in the entire state. You can choose to either hike to the top, or drive the auto-road up, and from the summit, you can see 90 miles in the distance on a clear day. It’s been a minute since I’ve done this hike, but man, I do remember it as being incredible !

Mount Holyoke is another great summit to experience in the fall, and also offers both an auto road, and hiking trails to get to the top.

14. Stock Up At A Fall Market Or Stand🍁🍎

One of my personal favorite things to do in the fall in New England is visit all the amazing fall markets and stands, and Massachusetts is home to some of the best. Well, every New England state has some pretty great ones, so let’s instead say that Massachusetts is no exception 😉

My two favorites in Massachusetts are Wilson Farms in Lexington, and Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury.

Wilson Farms is easy to visit if you’re planning a trip to Concord or Lexington. This market is open year-round, but in the fall, they place hundreds of pumpkins in crates in front of their main entrance, and just that alone gives you all the fall vibes you’re hoping for. But inside, the market is impressive, and you can spend a lot of time here filling your basket with all kinds of local produce, specialty foods, and goodies.

In Amesbury, Cider Hill Farm is perfect if you’re visiting Newburyport, as it’s only about 15 minutes away. This is a true fall destination, and they have pick your own apples and pumpkins, hard cider, regular cider, cider donuts, an incredible farm store, animals, ice cream and so much more. It’ll be heard to leave!

15. Attend A Farmhouse Wood-Fired Pizza Picnic At Appleton Farms

Remember earlier in the post when I raved about Ipswich being a fun fall destination? Well, their wood-fired pizza picnic events are one of the reasons why! These events actually take place all summer, too, but they continue through all of October, making this something to check out this fall season.

Pack up some lawn chairs and a picnic blanket, throw on your coziest sweater, and head to the farm for some amazing wood-fired pizza. They also offer more yummy foods prepared by the farm’s kitchen. Then, enjoy your hand-crafted pizza overlooking all the beautiful fall colors, and savoring the perfect fall day!

These events take place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the season, and don’t require any special advanced ticket purchase. Just show up hungry!

16. Experience The Big E

One of the most beloved fairs in the Northeast is The Big E, which takes place mid-September through early October. In fact, it’s the world’s only multi-state fair, so it’s definitely something to experience once in your life.

The Big E has all the fair favorites you can hope for including carnival rides, parades, live music and tons of vendors. This is the perfect way to say goodbye to summer, and hello to the fall season in New England.

17. Take A Haunted Tour

Massachusetts is home to some of the best spooky tours, haunted houses, and famous ghost sightings in the country, so doing some kind of spooky tour should be high on your list when visiting Massachusetts in the fall.

One of the most haunted places in the state that offers tours is the famous Lizzie Borden house in Fall River . You can even book an overnight stay here if you’re brave enough (spoiler alert, I am not 😂). Fall River is also home to the very scary Factory of Terror haunted house, so you can easily visit both for a full night of thrills.

And of course, Boston is home to some of the best haunted tours in the state! Here are a few of the best ones to look into:

→ Ghosts & Gravestones Haunted Trolley Tour

→ Haunted Ghosts & Pub Walking Tour

→ Death & Dying Night Walking Tour

Some super scary haunted houses to check out around Massachusetts are DementedFX, Fear Town, and 13th World Fright Park . But I actually have an entire post that rounds up the scariest haunted houses and places in Massachusetts, so be sure to check out that post at the end of this section.

18. Head To An Apple Orchard, Of Course!

It’s not fall in New England until you’ve visited an apple orchard, and there are tons of them all over Massachusetts that provide the quintessential fall experience!

If you’re visiting The Berkshires region, some great ones to check out are:

→ Hilltop Orchards → Bartlett’s Orchard → Meadowbrook Orchards

If you’re visiting the central and eastern parts of the state, these are some fun ones to visit:

→ Carlson Orchards → Red Apple Farm → Brookfield Orchards

19. Enjoy The Foliage Views From The Bridge Of Flowers

In the cute little town of Shelburne Falls in The Berkshires, the Bridge of Flowers is a famous attraction in the spring and summer. And while there isn’t as much in bloom in the fall season, it offers some pretty amazing views of the foliage-covered mountains right from the bridge. In fact, the entire town is another destination for a fun fall day trip or getaway.

And even in the fall, if you time your visit before a big frost, the bridge will still be blooming with some beautiful flowers, including dahlias, rudbeckia, daisies, and even some roses. October is the last month to enjoy blooms on this famous spot, so that’s just another reason to swing by in the fall.

20. Walk Through The Incredible Naumkeag Pumpkin Show

The gorgeous Naumkeag estate in Stockbridge puts on their Incredible Pumpkin Show in the fall season, and it’s most definitely worth checking it out!

Walk through the scenic grounds of the estate, glowing with festive fall displays and illuminated pumpkins. When you first arrive, you’ll see a food and beverage stand selling fun fall drinks (they had spiked apple cider, a fall mimosa, cider donuts, local beer, and non-alcoholic drinks when I was there – plus more!). I recommend grabbing something when you first arrive to enjoy during your walk. There is another beverage stand halfway through the way, too.

Since Stockbridge is such a charming town in The Berkshires, it’s easy to plan an afternoon enjoying Main Street, grab dinner at the famous Red Lion Inn before heading to Naumkeag for the perfect night of fall fun!

Pro Tip : The best time to get your tickets for the show, since it’s timed entry, is about 15-30 minutes before sunset. That way, you can enjoy part of the walk at sunset, and then the rest of it afterward, and enjoy the illuminated displays after dark.

21. Find Your Way Through A Corn Maze

Massachusetts has some pretty amazing corn mazes to check out, and since this is such a time-honored tradition in the fall season, this is one activity that should be on everyone’s radar.

One of the best to check out in the state is the Davis Mega Maze in Sterling . The maze itself is an experience on its own, and spans over 3 miles of trails to get through. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes if your sense of direction is on point, or up to 3 hours!

On top of that, the entire farm is the perfect fall destination, and you’ll find all kinds of activities in the fall season for their Davis Farm Festival including zip lines, awesome food, local beer, live music, and so much more.

Here are some of the best corn mazes in Massachusetts to check out this season:

→ Mike’s Maze → Flint Farm → Marini Farm Stand → Crescent Farms

22. Make Your Own Fall Candle In Rockport

One of the more unique things to do this fall is to make your own candle at Rockport Candle Company. Rockport is one of the most charming coastal towns in New England , and while it’s not a super popular fall destination, it’s special to visit year-round.

And Rockport Candle Company has a very fun DIY Candle Bar experience, where you’re guided through the process of creating your own custom scent, and pouring your own candle. Since so many of us just love a cozy night in with the perfect fall candle, this is one of the coolest things to do this fall.

23. Enjoy The Quiet Coastline

While most people flock to all the best foliage spots around the state in the fall, the Massachusetts shore garners the nickname “the quiet coastline.” Since the coast’s big season is the summer, it mellows out quite a bit after mid-September, and this is a wonderful time to experience the most beautiful parts of the waterfront.

Places like Cape Cod and the Islands are wonderful this time of the year, and you’ll be able to find deals on hotels, and far fewer crowds. While the water will likely be too chilly for a swim, the beaches and coastline are just as beautiful in the fall season as they are in the summer.

For that reason, booking a coastal Massachusetts stay in the fall is a great way to celebrate the season! Order some comforting clam chowder, take a brisk stroll on the beach, enjoy sales at the shops, and hit up the gorgeous nature trails!

24. Tour A Cranberry Bog

Also on Cape Cod, one of the most iconic fall events is cranberry harvest season, and if you time your visit just right, you can watch a cranberry bog harvest.

Cranberry harvest season in this area is late-September through November, and there are a few places that offer bog tours in the fall, including a cranberry farm in Harwich (one of my favorite Cape Cod towns!), and Cape Cod Cranberry Bog Tours in Orleans.

You don’t have to be on Cape Cod to tour a bog, though, and you can also check out A.D. Makepeace Company in Wareham, and Stone Bridge Farm in Acushnet.

25. Take A Scenic Fall Walk Or Hike

Between mountain peaks in The Berkshires, and cool waterfalls to check out, there are so many great hikes in Massachusetts with awesome fall color.

As mentioned earlier, Mount Greylock in The Berkshires is an epic hike if you’re up for climbing the state’s highest peak! The fall color at the summit is truly amazing this time of the year.

But if you’re looking for more, here are some other great hikes to take in the fall:

→ Wachusett Mountain State Reservation → The famous Walden Pond for a relaxing nature walk → Great Blue Hill (perfect for those near Boston) → The Cascades Trail in The Berkshires → Mount Tom State Reservation → Monument Mountain Reservation → Bish Bash Falls (the tallest in Massachusetts)

And as mentioned, the Sheep Hill and Field Farm walks in The Berkshires are wonderful during foliage season!

26. Sample All The Pumpkin Brews

Massachusetts is home to some of my all-time favorite breweries, and the fall season is especially wonderful to visit because you can taste what they’re brewing with all the flavors of this cozy season.

My No. 1 favorite brewery in Massachusetts that I just love to visit is Treehouse Brewing, which has locations in Sandwich on Cape Cod, Charlton, and Deerfield. During this time of the year, they’ll often release their “Autumn” Double IPA, which is just 👌🏻

Some other great breweries in Massachusetts to check out this fall are:

→ Trillium Brewing in Boston → Brick and Feather Brewery in Turners Falls → Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company in Worcester → Berkshire Brewing Company in South Deerfield → Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers in Framingham

27. Try The Hard Cider, Too!

I do love a good fall beer, but I’ve recently become more of a hard cider person, especially in the fall season. Massachusetts has some of the coolest cideries in New England to check out.

One of my all-time favorites is Far From The Tree in Salem, MA (perfect place to stop if you’re visiting this fall!). I’m so in love with their Bog cider , which has notes of cranberry, sage, and thyme. It’s honestly just fall in a can, and they only release it in the autumn months.

Some other great cideries in Massachusetts to visit this fall are:

→ Hilltop Orchards in The Berkshires → West County Cider in Shelburne Falls → Carr’s Ciderhouse – an awesome little hidden gem! → Ragged Hill Cider Company in West Brookfield → Common Ground Ciderworks in North Brookfield → Downeast Cider House in East Boston

28. Watch The Head of the Charles Regatta

One of the most famous events that takes place in the fall season in the Greater Boston region is the Head of the Charles Regatta in Cambridge. Even if you’re not super into rowing, this is still a really fun event to witness because the scenery is beautiful, and anyone can have an appreciation for how tough this sport is. I’m not much of a sports person, but it’s still pretty fun to cheer these guys on!

This event takes place in October each year over the course of 2 days, and it almost always coincides with peak foliage in the area.

29. Squeeze In Your Last Whale Watch Of The Year

October in New England brings the end of whale watching season, and this is the time to squeeze one in before the whales migrate too far south for the rest of the season. And Massachusetts is the best state for whale watching in New England!

Most tours in Massachusetts head out to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is a world-renowned whale watching destination. Some great tours to check out before the end of October are:

→ Gloucester Whale Watch → Boston Whale Watch → Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch From Provincetown → Newburyport Whale Watch

30. Get Coastal At An Oyster Or Chowder Fest

While the Quiet Coast is a great place for a fall trip for so many reason, I’m going to throw one more out there to further entice you: Seafood Fests!

There are so really awesome seafood fests that take place along the coast this time of the year, and while it’s not necessarily the most “fall” thing to do, it’s definitely a very New England thing to do that often coincides with beautiful, fall weather. And if you love good seafood, this is something you’ll want to have on your radar.

Wellfleet on Cape Cod hosts its annual OysterFest every October, and you’ll find raw bars, craft vendors, and more delicious food during this very fun event. Plus, you’re on Cape Cod – what more could you want? 😉

Newburyport also hosts a wonderful seafood event called Oysterfest in the Port , typically taking place at the end of September each year. During the event, you can sip on local beer and wine, local oysters (of course!), and enjoy live music, and tons more delicious food.

Lastly, be sure to check out the Seaport Chowderfest in New Bedford! Usually taking place in early October, you’ll be able to sample tons of amazing chowders from all over the state, and you can vote on your favorites!

Here are some posts on the destinations mentioned above to help you plan:

• Boston In The Fall: The Best Things To Do!
• Best Things To Do In Newburyport, MA
• The Ultimate Salem, MA Day Trip Guide + Best Things To Do
• The Best Haunted Houses & Spooky Tours In Massachusetts
• Best Things To Do In Rockport, MA

Fun Fall Festivals In Massachusetts

31. berkshire botanical gardens harvest festival.

If you’re spending any time in The Berkshires this fall, you’ll want to plan a visit to the Berkshire Botanical Gardens Harvest Festival. Featuring over 100 artisan and food vendors, there’s so much fun to be had here. They go all out with fall-themed fun, and offer a haunted house, a hay maze, cider pressing, and and endless list of children’s entertainment like face painting and more.

During the event, you can also shop at their farmer’s market, pick up some plants, and enjoy the tag sale!

32. AppleFest At Cook’s Farm In Brimfield

This super fun family festival in Brimfield takes a perfect day of apple picking up a notch. In addition to PYO apples during the festival, you can also enjoy free wagon rides, pumpkin painting, live music, great food, and lots of activities for the kids.

This festival typically takes place at the end of September each year, and they do a great job advertising the dates and activities on their Facebook page.

33. Johnny Appleseed Arts & Culture Festival In Leominster

As of writing this post, the Johnny Appleseed Arts & Cultural Festivals has been a Leominster tradition for 30 years! This festival is completely free, and there are over 200 vendors to enjoy. They also claim to have the “world’s best apple crisp.” Not sure if you agree? Guess you’ll have to check it out for yourself to find out!

You’ll also find lots of activities for the kids at this event, and live music to enjoy while you dig into all the amazing food available.

34. Oktoberfest In Douglas

This fall street fair is one of the best in the state to check out, and many of the proceeds from the event go to local charities, so you can feel extra good about participating.

Vendors line the downtown streets with delicious food, unique crafts, and fun games. Kids will love the giant slide and obstacle course, and adults will have a blast in the prize cash cube. And of course, you can expect fan favorites like live music, and a cool atmosphere.

35. Thanksgiving In Plymouth

Last but not least, a great way to celebrate the end of the fall season is by visiting Plymouth for all their fun Thanksgiving festivities. As the site of the original Thanksgiving feast, the town goes all out throughout the month of November to celebrate the holiday.

There’s a parade the Saturday before Thanksgiving, special concerts, a waterfront festival, harvest market, and of course, an authentic Thanksgiving dinner held at the Plimoth Patuxet Museum. This special dining event serves a full Thanksgiving dinner, and includes actors portraying Pilgrims, so this is the ultimate way to experience the holiday.

Psst! I have an entire post on things to do that make Plymouth, MA worth visiting , if you’d like more ideas for your visit 😉

Best Places To Stay In Massachusetts In The Fall Season

Planning a fall getaway in Massachusetts and not sure where to stay? Here are my suggestions:

Boston : A great home base, especially if you’ve never been. It’s easy to take day trips from Boston to places like Salem, Newburyport and Ipswich, and it has the biggest International airport for the cheapest flight options.

Where To Stay In Boston : 🍁 Boston Harbor Hotel : Perfect, 5-star hotel on the waterfront. 🍁 The Revere Boston Common : Amazing location walkable to most of the top foliage sites in the city.

The Berkshires : Obviously, this is an amazing region to stay in the fall season in Massachusetts! And there are so many wonderful towns to pick from, so you can really tailor it to your preferences. I personally love Williamstown, Stockbridge and Lenox. You can also easily take day trips to places like Deerfield and Sturbridge from The Berkshires.

Where To Stay In The Berkshires : 🍁 The Williams Inn in Williamstown : Incredible inn with cozy, but modern rooms, and an upscale feel. 🍁 The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge : Historic inn with cozy rooms and a great location on Main Street. 🍁 The Brook Farm Inn in Lenox : Charming inn with a traditional New England style and a great location.

Newburyport : If you’re looking to explore Boston & Salem on your fall trip, but want to stay in a place that’s less crowded and more like a small town, Newburyport is perfect. As mentioned, it’s a short drive from Salem for an easy day trip, and you can easily explore Ipswich, and Cider Hill Farm from here. And since you’re on the North Shore, you can make this a fall/coastal getaway by also seeing Rockport and more towns along the coast.

Since Newburyport is almost to the New Hampshire border, it will be easy to take some day trip there as well, including the charming city of Portsmouth!

Where To Stay In Newburyport : 🍁 Compass Rose Inn : A very cozy, traditional New England style inn where every room in a suite, and you always get an incredible breakfast each morning. 🍁 Essex Street Inn : A more budget-friendly option that’s still an awesome location, and very quaint and cozy!

You may also find these posts helpful:

• The PERFECT New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Fall In New England: The Absolute Best Things To Do & See!
• Things To Do On Cape Cod In The Fall
• Is New England In November Worth Visiting?
• Thanksgiving In New England: Cozy Getaway Ideas & Things To Do!
• Best Stops To Make When Driving From Boston To New York City

That’s A Wrap On Celebrating Fall In Massachusetts

And there you have it! All my tips and suggestions on the best ways to enjoy fall in Massachusetts. In fact, with so many fun and festive things to do, it’ll be hard to squeeze it all in before the snow begins to fall. But one thing’s for sure – every moment of autumn in the Bay State is simply glorious.

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10 Best Things to Do in Massachusetts

From fried clams to the ultimate scenic drive, these Bay State experiences are some of the best things to do in Massachusetts.

By Yankee Editors

Nov 09 2021

One of the vintage dune shacks that have been preserved as part of the Cape Cod National Seashore.

10 Best Things to Do in Massachusetts: Essential Massachusetts Experiences

1. explore the other  cape cod at the cape cod national seashore.

2. Lean Into History

3. cruise the mohawk trail.

4. Wander Around the Gingerbread Cottages on Martha’s Vineyard

5. Stroll the ’Sconset Bluff Walk

6. unpack the ultimate berkshires picnic experience at tanglewood.

7. Have the Perfect Day in Boston

8. eat fried clams at woodman’s and j.t. farnham’s, 9. visit a candlepin bowling alley.

10. See the Sunset at Race Point Beach

Best of massachusetts | hall of fame, massachusetts fall foliage guide, 75 classic new england foods.

Yankee Editors

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

33 Best Things to Do in Massachusetts

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

As one of the original Thirteen Colonies and birthplace of the American Revolution, it is no wonder Massachusetts is renowned for its rich history and heritage. While countless impressive monuments and important historic sites litter the Bay State, it also has scenic spots such as Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket for holidaymakers to enjoy.

Tucked away in the northeast of the United States in New England, its long Atlantic Ocean coastline is dominated by the three ginormous bays that shape it. It was here in the early seventeenth-century that the first colonists arrived and set up settlements like Salem and Boston. Along with the Plimoth Patuxet Museums and Old Sturbridge Village, they now offer a captivating look into the state’s past.

With old battlefields and atmospheric whaling towns to see alongside pristine beaches and Boston’s exciting nightlife scene, there are enough things to do in Massachusetts that will appeal to everyone.

33. Peabody Essex Museum, Salem

Lying right in the historic heart of Salem is one of the charming coastal city’s top cultural institutes: the outstanding Peabody Essex Museum. As well as boasting an extensive collection of Asian art, it has artifacts and exhibits covering the area’s maritime history.

One of the oldest continuously operating museums in the States, its roots date to 1799 when the East India Marine Society was founded. Nowadays over a million works of art and culture pack its grand galleries. While some sections focus on Native American art or Salem’s connection to the sea, others transport you as far away as Africa, Asia and Oceania.

In addition to phenomenal paintings and photos, the museum campus has two dozen historic houses and gardens to explore with the Yin Yu Tang House being a particular highlight.

32. Bash Bish Falls

Now protected as part of a state park, the beautiful Bash Bish Falls can be found in the southwest of the state, not far from Mount Washington. Besides making for some fantastic photos and viewing, it has numerous hikes and campsites to enjoy in the surrounding area.

Tucked away amidst the Taconic Mountains, it towers almost 200 feet in height with its bright white waters standing out delightfully against the jagged rocks and lush foliage. After coursing their way through a series of gorges, the cascades plunge into a serene pool overlooked by a scenic viewpoint.

The largest and arguably loveliest waterfall in the Bay State, its final falls are divided in two by a dramatic-looking boulder perched on the mountainside. After snapping some pics, take time to hike the mountains and forests around it.

31. John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum

Offering up a fascinating look into the life and legacy of the former president is the John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum. Due to his connection with Cape Cod, JFK frequently visited with photos, videos and oral testimonies all highlighting how he holidayed here with family and friends.

As Hyannis Port was considered the ‘heart and home’ of the Kennedys, it is no wonder the museum is located in what was formerly its town hall. Its exhibits show how John, Jackie and the kids spent their summers swimming and sailing, away from the endless demands of the Oval Office.

Asides from seeing joyful photos of the family laughing and relaxing, there is also a fabulous video to watch on the president’s powerful and poignant ‘Ripple of Hope’ speech.

30. Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich

A very peaceful and picturesque place, the Heritage Museums & Gardens lie just twenty minutes to the northwest of Hyannis. Alongside gorgeous grounds displaying rhododendrons and hydrangeas, there are three gallery buildings containing antique cars and American folk art to explore.

Sprawling across a huge area just outside of Sandwich, its gardens now protect the former estate of Charles Dexter. Between 1921 and 1943, the renowned rhododendron hybridizer planted thousands of species of trees, shrubs and flowers with it still being noted for its colorful collections of plants.

After having ambled amidst its delightful daylilies and seen its 1800s Old East Mill, it is well worth checking out its classic cars and Native American carvings. One of the museums’ main attractions, however, remains its lovely Looff Carousel hand-crafted in 1908.

29. Hammond Castle Museum

Exhibiting an exquisite mix of architectural styles, Hammond Castle overlooks the state’s attractive Atlantic Ocean coastline. Now open to the public as a museum, it displays lots of Roman, Medieval and Renaissance artifacts along with exhibits on the inventor’s many amazing inventions.

Built between 1926 and 1929, John Hays Hammond Jr’s dream residence looks like a cross between a castle and cathedral. As such, towers and turrets both feature alongside the detailed facades of old medieval shops and fetching flying buttresses. Its grand chambers and elegant art-decked hallways only make his former home and laboratory even more interesting to explore.

The museum also presents an extensive list of the pioneer’s patents that remarkably numbered more than 400 in total. As well as old organs and religious icons, visitors can also enjoy sweeping views over Gloucester Harbour from its clifftop setting.

28. Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield

As the popular sport was actually invented in the city, it is only appropriate that the Basketball Hall of Fame is one of Springfield’s main sights. Set just south of the center, its three vast floors have all kinds of unique old memorabilia and interactive exhibits to wander around.

Instantly recognizable from the building’s silver, ball-shaped sphere, the museum was established in 1959 to promote and preserve the history of basketball. Unlike other halls of fame in the country, it honors both international and American professionals and amateurs with 400 coaches, referees and A-list stars having been inducted to date.

Besides learning about legends Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan, you can see their signed shoes and uniforms, plus watch clips of them in action. As its displays are centered around a full-sized court, you can even shoot some hoops at the museum.

27. New Bedford Whaling Museum

Yet another excellent institute to visit in Massachusetts is the New Bedford Whaling Museum which looks at the history, art and culture of the international industry. As whaling was once so important to the town, its complex of historical buildings and galleries now sprawls across a whole city block.

Since being founded in 1903, the museum has grown and grown with its collection now numbering around 750,000 objects in total. As well as weathered old captains’ logbooks and intricately-carved ivory engravings, you can see the full skeletons of five absolutely enormous whales and the Lagoda – the world’s largest model ship.

Other enthralling exhibits document the evolution of the industry over the ages in countries like the US and Japan among others.

26. Commercial Street, Provincetown

Due to its beautiful beaches and captivating art scene, Provincetown at the very tip of Cape Cod has long been a popular holiday destination. Most of its bustling businesses and eclectic art galleries can be found along Commercial Street which acts as the heart and soul of life in town.

Lined by lots of attractive houses and cosy cottages, the long street runs right through the center of P-town, parallel to the bay. Clustered at its Eastern End are around forty lovely little galleries where you can pick up paintings and prints or meet artists and sip wine at their Friday evening opening.

Countless cool shops and cute cafes are also scattered along the lively yet laidback street where you often encounter men in drag and other revelers enjoying the town’s vibrant nightlife.

25. Adams National Historical Park

For those interested in learning more about the history of the country, the Adams National Historical Park is definitely not to be missed. This is because it preserves the homes of two former presidents whose ideas and actions helped transform the thirteen colonies into one united nation.

Located just fifteen minutes’ drive south of Boston outside Quincy, the large complex encompasses eleven historic buildings with the oldest dating to 1731. Inside, artifacts and exhibits tell the story of five generations of the Adams family and recount the profound impact they had on the early United States and its formation.

In addition to seeing the birthplaces of both John Adams and John Quincy Adams, visitors can stroll around landscaped gardens and the Stone Library, full of old tomes belonging to the family.

24. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Just up the road in nearby Boston is another of the state’s must-see sights: the awe-inspiring Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Modeled on a fifteenth-century Venetian palace, the building houses an impressive collection of American, European and Asian artworks.

Named for the philanthropist Isabella Stewart Gardner, the extraordinary museum was first opened to the public in 1903. While its exquisite architecture and idyllic courtyard garden are already works of art in their own right, its grand galleries are just as exciting to explore.

Alongside masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael and Rembrandt, you can see ceramics and sculptures. Fine furniture and textiles also feature. Its extensive and eccentric collection covers countless centuries and cultures with amazing Medieval treasures and elaborate Islamic art on show wherever you look.

23. Six Flags New England

A firm favorite with families, Six Flags New England is full of hair-raising rides and rollercoasters for you to enjoy. One of the largest theme parks on the Eastern Seaboard, its innumerable attractions lie just south of Springfield, alongside the Connecticut River.

What started out life in 1870 as a picnic spot with several mechanical rides and a carousel has since slowly morphed into a massive amusement park. In total, Six Flags now boasts more than a hundred thrilling rides and attractions with a large water park and loads of world-class shows also on offer.

Particularly popular are the old wooden Thunderbolt rollercoaster which opened in 1941 and scary Superman The Ride which plummets 221 feet at one point. With food stalls and child-friendly rides dotted about, the park makes for a memorable day out for all the family.

22. Harvard Museum of Natural History

Home to an incredible collection of specimens, the Harvard Museum of Natural History is one of the prestigious university’s most-visited attractions. Situated on its campus in Cambridge, its gigantic red brick building has endless exhibits on the natural world for guests to peruse.

Formed out of three research museums in 1998, its large galleries display everything from dinosaur fossils and meteorites to stuffed animals and tiny invertebrates. While the world’s only mounted 42-foot-long Kronosaurus certainly makes for a striking sight, for many, the thousands of breathtaking Blaschka glass flowers are the museum’s main highlight.

After having seen Triceratops skulls and whale skeletons, you can always walk to the historic Harvard Yard that lies nearby.

21. Historic Deerfield

A fascinating place to visit, Historic Deerfield shines a light on what life was like in New England’s historic villages and countryside. Alongside several galleries and museums, there are about a dozen eighteenth and nineteenth-century houses to explore.

Very well-preserved, its collection of atmospheric old structures lies along a 330-year-old street, just to the north of Northampton. They showcase some fine colonial and Federal-style architecture with fabulous furnishings and period pieces decorating their interiors.

These and the interesting artifacts and exhibits in its visitor center present a comprehensive picture of how people in frontier villages used to live in the past. The historical complex is also noted for its pretty American quilts and the numerous crafts and cooking classes it puts on throughout the year.

20. New England Aquarium

If you’re after some cool sea creatures, then the New England Aquarium is definitely the place to go. A global leader in both ocean exploration and marine conservation, its ginormous tanks and exhibition spaces lie alongside Boston Harbor.

Established in 1969, it now occupies a huge waterfront complex that includes Simons Theater and a whale-watching wharf. While some sections of the aquarium cover temperate and tropical climates, other parts are home to cute African penguins, lazy sea turtles and dozens of species of sharks.

Its main feature however is the Giant Ocean Tank which simulates a colorful Caribbean coral reef. Here visitors can see shimmering shoals of fish and stingrays swirling about with touch tanks full of starfish and horseshoe crabs also scattered about.

19. Chatham Lighthouse

One of Cape Cod’s most famous historical landmarks, the charming Chatham Lighthouse overlooks both the ‘elbow’s’ largest beach and endless Atlantic Ocean. Aside from learning all about its history, you can also enjoy sweeping views over the sea and shore from atop its tall tower.

Watching out over both the nearby North Beach Island and Nantucket Sound, it was erected in 1877 to warn sailors about its perilous shallows and sandbars. While an earlier wooden light on moveable skids was built in the early 1800s, the current one was set further inland to protect it against erosion.

On top of snapping some photos of its bright white exterior and accompanying coast guard station, you can take tours around its interior and hear all about the lives of its lightkeepers.

18. Fenway Park, Boston

As it is known as the ‘Cathedral of Baseball’, the hallowed Fenway Park is well worth a visit even if you aren’t into the sport. Now the home of the Red Sox for well over a century, the iconic, old-style sports stadium is an unforgettable place to catch an action-packed game.

The oldest active ballpark in the MLB, it was completed in 1912 with numerous extensions and renovations also having taken place. Besides ‘The Triangle’ at center field and towering ‘Pesky’s Pole’, its most distinctive feature is the 37-foot-tall left field wall known as the ‘Green Monster’.

Watching the Red Sox play is an intoxicating experience as just under 40,000 fervent fans roar their team to success. As it is one of the state capital’s standout symbols and sights, visiting Fenway Park is a must when in Boston.

17. Shining Sea Bikeway

A wonderful way to see even more of Cape Cod in peace and quiet is to walk, run or cycle along the Shining Sea Bikeway. It takes you right from the ferry terminal in Woods Hole to North Falmouth, passing quaint villages and picturesque nature spots on the way.

Reaching just over ten miles in length, the multipurpose path was opened in 1975 atop what was once an old dilapidated railway line. Its name is a reference to a line from the patriotic song America the Beautiful which was written by Katherine Lee Bates, a Cape Cod native.

As you cycle slowly along the scenic and serene route, you’ll pass salt marshes, cranberry bogs and beaches and enjoy some epic views over Buzzards Bay.

16. Tanglewood Concerts, Lenox

Each summer, the Boston Symphony Orchestra decamps to the tiny town of Lenox where it puts on a series of world-class performances known as the Tanglewood Concerts. As renowned conductors, soloists and musicians perform, music lovers flock here from late June through to early September.

Since 1937, the excellent orchestra and all its top talents have descended on western Massachusetts to play amidst the rolling Berkshire Hills. Numerous venues now accommodate them, including the fan-shaped Koussevitzky Music Shed and elegant, wood-decked Seiji Ozawa Hall. Guests can also sit outside on the lawn and listen to the lovely music while taking in the scenery around them.

In addition to its classical concerts, jazz pianists, string quartets and chorus groups all also perform throughout the sunny summer months.

15. Nantucket

As it is lined by dramatic cliffs, quiet coves and sandy beaches, Nantucket is a picture-perfect place to visit. Both an island and town, it lies thirty miles off Cape Cod’s southern coast, with ferries and planes whisking you to its windswept dunes and lonely lighthouses.

Once an important whaling center, its isolated setting saw it become a popular summer destination as early as the 1870s. Although CEOs and celebrities will now find lots of exclusive resorts and golf clubs, plenty of waterfront restaurants and beachside condos cater to families with young ones too.

Aside from basking on the beach and exploring its untouched wild spaces, there are fun watersports such as kayaking and sailing to try. With a charming historic center and some vibrant nightlife also on offer, Nantucket really does have something for everyone to enjoy.

14. Mount Greylock

The highest point in the state, Mount Greylock lies right in its northwest corner, not far from Adams and the borders with both Vermont and New York . Now protected as part of a state park, it has some spellbinding scenery and views for you to enjoy with hiking trails weaving their way here and there.

Towering 3,489 feet in total, the mighty mount looms over the surrounding area with the Bay State’s only sub-alpine forest coating its slopes. Over seventy miles of trails take you through its gorgeous old-growth woods while both the Veterans War Memorial Tower and a broadcast tower protrude up from its peak.

From its lofty summit, you can see into five states and even ski back down the Thunderbolt Trail during the snowy winter months.

13. Old Sturbridge Village

Another brilliant place to visit if you want to learn about life in Massachusetts in the early 1800s is Old Sturbridge Village in the south-center of the state. The largest living history museum in all of New England, its costumed interpreters and live arts demonstrations certainly transport you back in time.

Set just outside of the small town of the same name, its sprawling site encompasses everything, from small houses and shops to water-powered mills and a working blacksmith. These are divided into the Center Village, Countryside and Mill Neighborhood with each of its forty structures providing a fresh look into a particular part of the past.

As you stroll about town, you can enter old farmhouses and outbuildings and see antique tools and artisan techniques used in centuries gone by.

12. Whale Watching from Gloucester

As Gloucester is regularly listed among the best places in the world to go whale watching, it would be amiss to visit and not take a trip out to see the majestic creatures. From the coastal city of Cape Ann, you can visit both Stellwagen Bank and Jeffrey’s Ledge; two of their main feeding grounds.

Numerous tour companies run excursions out to see the whales who migrate here each year to feast on the area’s abundant natural resources. Between May and October, visitors can expect to spot not just giant humpbacks and massive blue whales but smaller pilot whales, porpoises and dolphins too.

As sightings are almost guaranteed, the mouth of Massachusetts Bay is one of the best places to see them other than the far-flung reaches of the globe such as Antarctica, Alaska and Patagonia.

11. Cape Cod National Seashore

Protecting almost the entirety of the Outer Cape’s Atlantic Ocean coastline is the Cape Cod National Seashore. Sure to delight nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, it boasts beautiful beaches and dunes with scenic woods, ponds and seaside villages tucked here and there.

Lying between Provincetown and Eastham, it was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to preserve its pristine landscapes, scenery and nature. As well as high coastal cliffs and heathlands, there are expansive swamps and salt marshes to explore alongside six historic lighthouses and some smallish museums.

Besides hiking and cycling along its paths, you can lounge on the beach and swim and splash about in its shallows. You can also learn more about its interesting history and ecosystems at the national seashore’s two visitor centers.

10. Minute Man National Historical Park

Commemorating the opening battle in the American Revolutionary War is the Minute Man National Historical Park just outside Concord. Here you can see the exact route marched by the British from Boston and where the Colonials first engaged them in battle on April 19, 1775.

At the historic park, visitors can cross over North Bridge – the site of the skirmish – and walk along the ‘Battle Road Trail’. Restored colonial buildings, such as Barrett’s Farm and Hartwell Tavern, help highlight key figures and events while uniforms and artifacts are shown in its visitor center.

Park rangers are on-hand to teach you about the start of the American Revolution and reenactments take place every now and again. Don’t forget to stop by the Wayside house too as it was home to the noted authors Nathaniel Hawthorne, Louisa May Alcott and Margaret Sidney.

9. Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Home to a staggering array of artworks from all around the world, the much-loved Museum of Fine Arts can be found in Boston’s Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood. Long one of Boston’s major tourist attractions , its galleries occupy a fabulous neoclassical building overlooking Back Bay Fens park.

Founded in 1870, its collection now consists of over 450,000 artifacts and art pieces with Asian and Persian fine arts displayed next to ancient Egyptian mummies and masterpieces by European artists. The museum is particularly known for its awesome Art of the Americas wing which showcases both pre-Columbian and colonial-era art.

As works by big names like Goya, Monet and Rembrandt feature alongside impressionist paintings and contemporary pieces, it is no wonder it is one of the most-visited museums on the planet.

8. Crane Beach, Ipswich

Lying alongside the enormous Ipswich Bay is one of the most spectacular stretches of sand in the state. Backed by delightful dunes and maritime forests, Crane Beach makes for quite the sight with divine views over the ocean also being on offer.

Protected as part of a conservation site, its sparkling shores stretch more than four miles with a quiet boardwalk taking you through the idyllic area’s untouched sand dunes and salt marshes. Bathrooms and showers are scattered about while a snack stand operates in the summer.

Other than hiking amidst its sublime scenery, you can paddle about in its clean, calm waters and top up your tan on the beach. Afterwards, you can check out the adjacent Crane Estate which contains landscaped gardens and a marvelous English-style mansion.

7. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

For those interested in learning more about the history of the States, the brilliantly done Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum are an absolute must. Through thrilling re-enactments and other immersive experiences, you’ll hear all about the important 1773 protest that so shaped the future of the nation.

Situated just south of the city center, its bright red buildings lie on Congress Street Bridge with two replicas of eighteenth-century ships bobbing about Griffin’s Wharf. Along with interactive exhibits and multimedia installations, they present a comprehensive view of the exciting events surrounding the Boston Tea Party and what the Sons of Liberty achieved that day.

In addition to touring around the Eleanor and Beaver and meeting some colonists onboard, you can toss tea into the harbor yourself and watch life-like holograms discuss the impactful protests.

6. Martha’s Vineyard

Long a popular holiday hotspot for the rich and famous, the magnificent Martha’s Vineyard lies just to the south of Cape Cod. Although artists, celebrities and even presidents have all vacationed here over the years, New England’s largest island still has a laidback feel and lots of picturesque scenery.

Nicknamed ‘Hollywood East’ due to its often affluent clientele, the peaceful isle has six small towns and miles and miles of beaches for you to explore. Plenty of boutique hotels and fine restaurants are also dotted about while a pretty patchwork of farms and fields coats its countryside.

Aside from relaxing at its upscale resorts and retreats, holidaymakers can enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities. As you hike or kayak about, you’ll see scenic sights such as Oak Bluffs’ cosy cottages and the Gay Head Cliffs, all while basking in the Vineyard’s epic views over the ocean.

5. Norman Rockwell Museum, Stockbridge

For the last 25 years of his life, the esteemed American artist Norman Rockwell lived and painted in the Berkshires. Since 1969, an outstanding museum just outside of Stockbridge has shone a light on his considerable talents with a thousand of his paintings, drawings and personal items now on show.

Overlooking the Housatonic River Valley, the museum’s bright white building now hosts the largest and most significant collection of original Norman Rockwell works in the world. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of everyday American life in small towns and for his various artworks that represent the United States’ ideals.

Highlights include his countless iconic covers for the Saturday Evening Post and a moving series of paintings known as the Four Freedoms. Based on Franklin D. Roosevelt’s famous 1941 State of the Union speech, these depict essential human rights that should be protected.

4. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Right in the historic heart of Boston is one of the capital’s standout sights: the fantastic Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Most known for the role it played during the American Revolution, the huge historical brick building now acts as a shopping center and is synonymous with world-class street performers.

Now part of a large complex encompassing scores of shops and the lively Quincy Market food hall, it is often referred to as the ‘Cradle of Liberty’. This is because it is here that the lawyer James Otis coined the rallying cry ‘no taxation without representation’ in 1764 while encouraging independence from Great Britain.

As you stroll amidst its unique boutiques and restaurants, you can take in the area’s attractive old architecture and enjoy some of the marketplace’s superb musicians and street performers.

3. Plimoth Patuxet Museums

If you want to delve even deeper into the country’s captivating past, make sure to schedule time for a visit to the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. Its costumed interpreters and recreated buildings transport you back in time to a seventeenth-century English Village and Native American Patuxet Homesite.

Located just down the coast from Plymouth, the large living history museum was previously known as Plimouth Plantation as it replicated the Pilgrims’ original 1627 settlement. In recent years, it was renamed and expanded with a Wampanoag Village now also depicting how Native Americans lived both before and after the colonists’ arrival.

While wandering around the expansive site, you’ll learn about the lives and cultures of the Pilgrims and Patuxet and watch them go about their daily tasks. There is also a full-scale reproduction of the Mayflower II to explore that covers the colonists’ historic voyage across the Atlantic.

2. Salem’s Historic Houses

While the whole state is awash with interesting historic sights, not many places in New England can rival those of Salem. One of the most important ports in early American history, it boasts hundreds of beautiful old buildings that shine a light on various parts of its centuries-old history and culture.

Most famed for the Salem Witch Trials that shook the seaside community in 1692, it was founded in 1626 along the sheltered Salem Harbor. The town later played a prominent role during the American Revolutionary War and thrived thanks to the hugely profitable Old China Trade. Its many museums, well-preserved buildings and historic districts now help reveal these different parts of its past.

The House of Seven Gables, for instance, is immortalized in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel while the Witch House is the only remaining building connected to the trials. Other popular places to visit are the Peabody Essex Museum houses and Salem Maritime National Historic Site which preserves the city’s waterfront.

1. Freedom Trail

Meandering its way through the center of Boston, the Freedom Trail takes you past many of its most important Revolutionary War sites. Its churches, graveyards and colonial buildings recount the story of the critical events and crucial figures that paved the way for American independence.

Marked by both red bricks and paint, the historic walking tour stretches 2.5 miles in total and begins at Boston Common; the oldest park in the country. Divided into sections, it first looks at revolution and revolt before culminating at the battle of Bunker Hill and the USS Constitution which was built to protect the fledgling nation.

On the way, you’ll see the Old State House which was the site of the infamous Boston Massacre and Faneuil Hall where people protested against the imposition of taxes on the colonies. As it passes so many renowned landmarks, the Freedom Trail is certainly not to be skipped when traveling around the state.

Map of Things to Do in Massachusetts

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15 Best Places to Visit in Massachusetts — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

By: Author Stefan Meyer

Posted on Published: June 20, 2021  - Last updated: May 30, 2023

Massachusetts may be one of the smallest states in the U.S., but it holds an endless array of fun possibilities.

Nicknamed the Bay State, it rests on the banks of the North Atlantic Ocean and is the ideal place for you to go on a long-awaited getaway.

Here, you can do things like roam through charming streets, spend time at the beach, go shopping for antiques, explore historic sites, discover the various galleries at a museum, have a blast doing countless water sports, visit nearby islands, and so much more.

So, gather your travel buddies and have a fantastic vacation by exploring some of the best places to visit in Massachusetts, as shown on the list I made just for your convenience.

1. Plum Island — Newburyport

Plum Island Newburyport, MA 01950

Plum Island is an island barrier running for roughly 18 kilometers long.

It is a premier beach spot for its miles of pristine shoreline.

Why You Should Visit This Place

Are you searching for what to do in Massachusetts to jet-start your unforgettable vacation?

If you are, pack your swimsuit and sunblock and make your way to Plum Island.

At this picture-perfect destination, you can spend a laid-back and relaxing day trip sprawled on a sandy beach or do fun activities.

Like swimming, hiking through nature trails, eating fresh seafood at a local restaurant , taking in the glorious sunset views, and dine at a beachfront cafe.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

If you are looking for a place to buy alcoholic beverages, souvenir items, groceries, or withdraw cash, stop by the Cottage Island Market and Spirits.

2. The Berkshires — Sandisfield

The Berkshires Sandisfield, MA 01245

You can find the Berkshires in the western region of Massachusetts, perched on its breathtaking mountaintops.

Go on a magnificent nature escape by exploring beautiful places to visit near you, like the Berkshires.

It is the ideal destination for you to get away from crowded cities and colossal skyscrapers and enjoy the bliss and serenity of the great outdoors.

Take in the beautiful scenery of this rural mountain region as you enjoy a boat-load of activities.

For example, kayaking, canoeing, golfing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, swimming in a pristine lake, camping, hiking, and the like.

In cold winter months, you and your companions can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other fun options.

A must-visit attraction on your getaway is the Berkshire HorseWorks.

It is a renowned equestrian facility.

It allows for the ultimate horseback riding experience alongside well-trained, friendly horses.

It also offers lessons if you want to learn how.

Related: Best Things to Do in Massachusetts

3. Northampton

Northampton, MA 01060 (413) 587- 4900

Northampton, nicknamed the Paradise City, is a well-loved tourist destination, offering the perfect blend of culture, nature, delicious cuisine, history, and art.

There are many beautiful and terrific places to travel in Massachusetts, such as the picturesque Northampton.

It’s lovely streets feature a myriad of shops, art galleries, museums, scenic parks, and restaurants, backed by stunning mountain views.

Some of the attractions you can visit are the Smith College Museum of Art, featuring more than 25,000 pieces of artwork, Thornes Marketplace, where you can enjoy the ultimate shopping spree, and the Academy of Music Theatre, offering enthralling local productions.

The Botanic Garden of Smith College is one of the top places of interest that Northampton has to offer.

Don’t leave the city without exploring this botanical garden and its many awe-striking features, like a conservatory and a greenhouse containing at least 2,500 plant species.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Springfield Northampton/Amherst

4. Martha’s Vineyard — Vineyard Haven

Martha’s Vineyard Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

Martha’s Vineyard is a breathtakingly gorgeous island just a few miles offshore.

It is a popular summer destination, beckoning visitors from all over the country.

If you are in search of places to go in Massachusetts for an amazing vacation that you and your friends or family will never forget, Martha’s Vineyard is the ideal choice.

On this island, you can do things like shopping for antiques, viewing masterpieces at an art gallery, lazing on a sandy beach, chartering a boat to go on a peaceful cruise, fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, booking a guided tour of the area, and exploring historic lighthouses.

You can find a plethora of coastlines on this island.

Choose Oak Bluffs Town Beach if you want a more family-friendly option and Katama Beach if you prefer to spend the day out in the water, riding the waves on your surfboard.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Charles and Charles MV

Related: Best Places to Eat in Martha’s Vineyard

Related: Best Beaches in Massachusetts

Boston, MA 02201 (617) 973-8500

Boston is the capital city of Massachusetts, famous for its delicious food , thrilling sports games, and historical attractions.

Boston is one of the best cities to visit in Massachusetts, offering you an endless range of recreational possibilities for you and your loved ones, significant others, or friends.

It has many fun-filled tourist hotspots catering to your every desire.

Like Fenway Park, a world-famous sports complex, the New England Aquarium, which is home to more than 20,000 animals representing over 550 species, the Symphony Hall, where you can watch a symphony orchestra, and so much more.

Whether you are traveling with your family and looking for something fun to do or want to share a romantic moment with your beloved, a top activity you should do is riding the Swan Boats at the Boston Common.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Encore Boston Harbor

Related: Weekend Getaways in Massachusetts

6. Nantucket

Nantucket, MA 02554

Nantucket is a small island about 300 miles off the shores of Cape Cod.

It is a renowned summer colony and tourist attraction.

Experience the best of Massachusetts by bonding with your friends on a fantastic vacation together at Nantucket.

Prepare to have a grand time as you do activities like spending the day sprawled on a sandy shoreline, sipping a pint of beer at a brewery, exploring the historic lighthouses, going on a fishing excursion, whale watching, sailing, watching a ballet at a theater, and so on.

Nantucket welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists during the summer season.

If you want to avoid excessively large crowds, opt for other months.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: White Elephant Hotel

Related: Good Places to Eat in Nantucket

Salem, MA 01970 (978) 740-1650

Salem is an internationally-famed coastal city because of the witch trials that occurred here in 1692.

Take your friends, family, or partner on a vacation they will remember for years to come by having a terrific time exploring Salem.

It is one of the top Massachusetts tourist attractions, offering you a boat-load of fascinating and enjoyable places to visit.

Destinations you visit are the House of the Seven Gables, a historic house museum constructed in 1668, the Peabody Essex Museum, exhibiting more than 840,000 art pieces, and Salem Willows Park, featuring kid-friendly rides, sports courts, beaches, an arcade, and more.

Bewitched After Dark Walking Tours is an award-winning tour experience you have to try before leaving.

You can go on a tour alongside a knowledgeable historian and learn how it became the Witch City as you explore the city.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites

Related: Best Places to Eat in Salem

Related: Best Waterpark Hotels in Massachusetts

8. Cape Cod — Hyannis

Hyannis, MA 02601 (508) 362-3225

Cape Cod is a picture-perfect, hook-shaped cape lined with seafood shacks, charming beaches, waterfront attractions, top-rated resorts, and more.

Are you searching for spectacular vacation spots to unwind and take a break from your busy city life? If you are, make your way to this magnificent cape.

Discover at least 83 different museums, over 559 miles of stunning shoreline, wildlife sanctuaries ideal for birdwatching, more than 50 golf courses catering to every skill level, scenic trails for different purposes, kid-friendly places for your little ones, and tons more.

For a more relaxing time, sign up for an excursion with the Bay Spirit Tours.

Depending on the tour you book, it includes sailing on the water as you go wine tasting, listening to live music, watching an awe-inspiring sunset, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Anchor In Distinctive Waterfront Lodging

Related: Best Things to Do in Hyannis, MA

Related: Best Places to Eat in Cape Cod

Related: Best Restaurants in Hyannis

9. New Bedford

New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 979-1400

New Bedford , nicknamed the Whaling City, rests on the shores of Buzzards Bay.

It served as the primary setting for the internationally acclaimed novel Moby Dick.

Haven’t made up your mind on what to do and where to go in Massachusetts?

Then drive on over to New Bedford.

Some of the activities you can do here are chartering boats, learning about whaling history at a museum, observing animals at a zoo, enjoying a glass of fine wine, appreciating masterful pieces at an art gallery, exploring antique shops, and tons more.

A must-visit location you should tour on your visit to this city is the New Bedford Whaling Museum, founded in 1903.

It boasts an impressive collection of more than 750,000 items for you to view with your travel buddies.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott New Bedford

Related: Best Places to Eat in New Bedford

10. Wingaersheek Beach — Gloucester

Wingaersheek Beach Gloucester, MA 01930

Wingaersheek Beach, featuring 0.6 miles of breathtaking shoreline, is one of the most popular sites for beachgoers.

When searching for cheap and fun places to visit to enjoy an epic beach trip with your family and friends, this jaw-droppingly beautiful coastline is a superb choice.

It is the ideal beach for you to create long-lasting memories as you spend quality time together.

Like, helping your kids make sandcastles, taking plenty of photos together, relaxing on the shore while sunbathing, swimming in the gentle water, having a beachfront picnic, and many others.

If you are planning to take your furry friends along for the ride, visit on odd-numbered days from October 1 to June 30.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Beauport Hotel Gloucester

Related: Best Things to Do in Gloucester, MA

Related: Where to Eat in Gloucester

11. Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area — Ashburnham

Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area Ashburnham, MA 01430

The Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area is a rugged mountain top tourist hotspot offering miles of rugged hiking trails.

Enjoy a fantastic retreat in the great outdoors by going to one of the top places to visit in Massachusetts, the Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area.

At this haven for nature lovers, you can hike through different trails of varying difficulties through breathtaking landscapes, like towering trees, fields of wildflowers, and more.

The Mount Watatic Trail, about 3.5 kilometers long, is the best option if you are a beginner hiker or hiking with your children.

The ideal time to hike this trail is from April to September.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Colonial Hotel

12. Cambridge

Cambridge, MA 02139 (617) 349-4000

Cambridge , founded in 1630, is a renowned city and often ranks as one of the best places to live in the state.

It is home to some of the best schools in the U.S., like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University.

One of the top places to see in Massachusetts on your exploration of the state is this postcard-perfect city.

It is a mecca for tourists, offering you a multitude of attractions, like a wide range of eateries serving local and international cuisine , many boutique shops, enthralling theaters, awe-inspiring historical sites, family-friendly parks, countless art, science, and history museums, and more.

Before heading home, make sure to explore Harvard Square.

It is a triangular plaza offering various retail shops, cafes, benches where you can rest your feet, nearby hotels, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Boston/Cambridge

13. Museum of Fine Arts — Boston

465 Huntington Ave Boston, MA 02115 (617) 267-9300

The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the largest art museums on the planet.

It features a whopping collection of more than 450,000 pieces of artwork that draws in millions of visitors each year.

Do you have an art appreciation?

Do you love looking through artful masterpieces?

If you do, make a stop at this magnificent museum.

Here, you can view things like paintings from medieval Europe, artwork by world-famous artists, such as Claude Monet, Japanese pieces, Chinese calligraphy, Ancient Egyptian artifacts, like sarcophagi and jewelry, and so much more.

You can also do activities like listening to a fascinating lecture, attending a class or workshop to learn something new, watching an art film, and the like.

The Museum of Fine Arts is the perfect destination to visit if you are vacationing with someone who has a physical disability.

It offers wheelchairs for rent and special tour programs for those with sight and hearing impairments.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: InterContinental Boston, an IHG Hotel

14. Old Sturbridge Village — Sturbridge

1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd Sturbridge, MA 01566 (800) 733-1830

The Old Sturbridge Village is a living museum recreating life in New England from the late 18th century to the early 19th century.

The Old Sturbridge Village is a must-visit for history buffs, offering you a memorable experience where you can travel back in time to the 1790s.

Go on a tour alongside a guide in period-appropriate clothing as you explore its many features.

Some of the activities you can enjoy are watching costumed interpreters do agricultural work, make arts and crafts, and so on.

It also features various exhibits where you can learn all about rural New England and how the people then lived their day-to-day lives.

The best time to visit this historical attraction when traveling with your children is during the summertime.

During this season, it offers a myriad of activities for kids aged 6 to 14.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Sturbridge, an IHG Hotel

15. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum — Boston

25 Evans Way Boston, MA 02115 (617) 566-1401

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, established in 1903, is one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts.

It features a collection of artwork from all over the globe, like Asia and Europe.

There are many cool and unique places to visit in Massachusetts, such as this spectacular art museum.

It is home to many dazzling pieces of varying forms, like tapestries, paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, ceramics, artifacts, musical instruments, and many other options.

To enjoy a more educational experience and to get the chance to learn more about its stunning galleries, you can opt to sign up for a tour with a charismatic guide.

If you want to enjoy a more personal and private experience, explore the museum with the help of an audio guide.

It comes in five different languages and offers an immersive time as you listen to museum stories.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairmont Copley Plaza

Massachusetts Places to Visit: The 15 Best Places to Go for [currentyear]

• Plum Island — Newburyport
• The Berkshires — Sandisfield
• Northampton
• Martha’s Vineyard — Vineyard Haven
• Cape Cod — Hyannis
• New Bedford
• Wingaersheek Beach — Gloucester
• Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area — Ashburnham
• Museum of Fine Arts — Boston
• Old Sturbridge Village — Sturbridge
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum — Boston

20 Best Places to Visit in Massachusetts (By a Local)

Posted on January 10, 2024 Written by Claudia Pena Updated on July 22, 2024

Written by Claudia Pena for Travel Lemming January 1, 2024

There are so many exciting places to visit in Massachusetts. As a  Massachusetts  local, I can attest to the Bay State’s interesting and unique destinations.

Massachusetts is a place where history and culture meet. From major cities to seashore towns, and everywhere in between, there is something for everyone. I’ve created this list to help you explore the best of Massachusetts while enjoying all the  top attractions .

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10 Of The Most Beautiful Downtowns To Visit In Massachusetts

• Massachusetts offers charming New England towns with historic architecture, unique shops, and beautiful natural scenery, perfect for a charming getaway.
• From the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge to the art galleries in Rockport, these downtown areas offer visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.
• Whether it's strolling the brick sidewalks of Newburyport or enjoying the lively downtown of Provincetown, there are plenty of things to do and explore in these beautiful downtowns in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts offers lots of awesome things to do , one of which is visiting its many charming New England towns with quaint downtown areas. From bustling harbors to quiet village greens, the downtown areas offer visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

Travelers will find historic architecture, unique shops and restaurants, and beautiful natural scenery, typically within proximity of some of the most scenic fall hikes in Massachusetts . Many of these classic New England main streets are best discovered on foot, allowing people to appreciate the sights and ambiance truly. If one is looking for a fun yet enchanting urban experience in this state, here are some of the most beautiful downtowns in Massachusetts to visit for a charming getaway.

RELATED: 10 Free Things To Do This Fall In Massachusetts

Stockbridge

The charming town of Stockbridge is home to one the most beautiful downtown areas in Massachusetts; it looks like a scene straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Travelers will find elegant historical buildings, art galleries, and boutique shops lining the main street.

Be sure to stop into the Normal Rockwell Museum to see the largest collection of the famous artist's works. Just steps from downtown, one can also visit the grounds of the Naumkeag mansion for gorgeous gardens.

• Top Attractions: Norman Rockwell Museum, Naumkeag Mansion
• Things to Do: Shopping, Art Gallery Visits

The seaside downtown of Rockport is one of the most beautiful places for a coastal road trip in New England . Visitors will find rocky harbors, historic sea captain's houses, and wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean. Art galleries also abound, as Rockport has been an artists' colony since the 19th century.

Be sure to walk Bearskin Neck for shops, restaurants, and stunning harbor views. Visitors can also go for a sail on a schooner to fully experience the sights of the town from offshore.

• Top Attractions: Bearskin Neck, Rockport Art Galleries
• Things to Do : Schooner Tours, Shopping, Art Gallery Visits

Newburyport

On the banks of the Merrimack River, Newburyport's downtown exudes historic maritime charm. Stroll along the brick sidewalks past 18th and 19th-century buildings and visit the Custom House Maritime Museum. The downtown has an array of cafés, breweries, and shops to explore.

From downtown, visitors can also walk across a bridge to Maudslay State Park or take a short drive to Plum Island for beaches and wildlife refuge trails.

• Top Attractions: Custom House Maritime Museum
• Things to Do: Shopping, Café Hopping

Provincetown

Located at the tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown has a lively downtown full of art galleries, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It's one of the most walkable cities on Cape Cod , perfect for an urban retreat.

Walk down Commercial Street to take in the sights, stopping to see historic maritime buildings like the Pilgrim Monument and the Rose Dorothea ship. Make sure to sample some seafood while in town, and go for a sunset stroll down the harbor front MacMillan Pier. Provincetown's downtown offers an eclectic, fun-loving, and quintessentially Cape Cod experience.

• Top Attractions: Pilgrim Monument, MacMillan Pier
• Things to Do : Whale Watching, Beach Time, Shopping

History lovers will adore downtown Concord, which was pivotal in the Revolutionary War and early American literature. Travelers can visit sites like the North Bridge, the Old Manse literary landmark, and Authors Ridge. The downtown area also has a wonderful selection of cafes, shops, and restaurants to choose from. Overall, there are lots of things to do in Concord that travelers of all ages will enjoy.

Be sure to browse the unique stores and eateries housed in historic buildings along Main Street. The scenic Concord River also offers opportunities for canoe and kayak rentals in town. There is something for every traveler in what is perhaps one of the best downtowns in Massachusetts.

• Top Attractions: The Old Manse, Authors Ridge
• Things to Do : Literary Site Tours, Shopping Tour

RELATED: 12 Things To Do In Worcester: Complete Guide To Exploring A Coastal Massachusetts Gem

The upscale downtown area of Wellesley offers visitors a sophisticated shopping and dining experience. The tree-lined main street has high-end boutiques, art galleries, gourmet food stores and top-rated restaurants. Local favorite eateries include Blue Ginger, a niche by local celebrity chef Ming Tsai.

Wellesley College's beautiful grounds are also open to visitors and just a short walk from downtown. Strolling the town green surrounded by historic buildings is a quintessential New England small-town experience.

• Top Attractions: Blue Ginger Restaurant, Wellesley College Campus
• Things to Do : High-end Shopping, Fine Dining

Northampton

Northampton has an energetic, artistic downtown full of unique shops, cafés and cultural attractions. Travelers will find well-preserved Victorian architecture on Main Street and funky new establishments. Art galleries, craft breweries, and bakeries abound for visitors to try.

On Saturdays from May to November, a bustling farmer's market is held on the town green. Music venues like the Iron Horse and the Parlor Room offer nightly live performances. The downtown area caters to foodies, artists, students, and families.

• Top Attractions: Main Street, Town Green Farmer's Market
• Things to Do : Café Hopping, Shopping, Farmers Market

Williamstown

Surrounded by the rolling Berkshire Mountains (which offer superb places to stay) , Williamstown is a lovely small town in New England downtown. The area has shops, restaurants, and historic architecture, oriented around the appealing Williams Green. Food options range from the upscale Mezze Bistro to the lively brewpub Tunnel City Coffee.

The world-class Clark Art Museum is just a short walk away, housing an impressive collection of paintings and special exhibits. Outdoor lovers can also easily access hiking trails in the nearby Mount Greylock range from downtown.

• Top Attractions: Clark Art Museum, Williams College Campus
• Things to Do: Art Museum Visit, Shopping, Dining

On the island of Martha's Vineyard, Oak Bluffs has a vibrant downtown and harbor area. Colorful gingerbread cottages surround Ocean Park, a green space in the center of town. Be sure to admire the decorative Carpenter Gothic architecture on display throughout downtown.

Visitors can also browse the downtown shops and art galleries, ride the Flying Horses historic carousel, and stroll out along the harborfront. At night, the downtown area comes alive with dining and entertainment options for travelers.

• Top Attractions: Flying Horses Carousel, Gingerbread Cottages
• Things to Do: Beach Time, Shopping, Harborfront Stroll

RELATED: Step Back In Time: These 10 Hotels Are the Oldest In America

Great Barrington

Great Barrington's small downtown offers a mix of cafes, shops, and cultural attractions. Stroll along Railroad Street to see historic buildings like the Triplex Cinema and the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center. Quaint alleyways, galleries, chic restaurants, and antique shops make this downtown fun to explore.

Seasonal events like the Farmers Market and Third Thursday Street Festival add to the local flavor. The Housatonic River and Lake Mansfield are just a short walk from downtown for scenic strolls.

• Top Attractions : Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, Housatonic River Walks
• Things to Do : Boutique Shopping, Farmers Market, Scenic Strolls

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations
• United States
• Massachusetts

30 Must Visit Places In Northampton

Published: August 24, 2024

by Kaja Wingard

Looking for an exciting getaway in the United States? Northampton might be just the place for you! This charming city in Massachusetts offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're into art, music, or outdoor adventures, Northampton has something for everyone. Stroll through its vibrant downtown filled with unique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries. Visit the historic Smith College campus, or take a hike in the nearby Holyoke Range. With its friendly atmosphere and diverse attractions, Northampton is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable experience for all ages.

Historical Landmarks

Northampton, Massachusetts, is a treasure trove of history. From colonial times to the modern era, this city has preserved its past beautifully. Here are some must-visit historical landmarks.

Smith College Museum of Art This museum, located on the Smith College campus, boasts an impressive collection of over 27,000 works. It features pieces from ancient times to contemporary art, offering a rich cultural experience.

Historic Northampton A museum and historical society, Historic Northampton showcases the city's history through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs. It's a great place to learn about the local heritage.

Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and Museum Dedicated to the 30th President of the United States , this museum offers a glimpse into Calvin Coolidge's life and presidency. It houses personal artifacts, documents, and photographs.

Natural Attractions

Nature lovers will find plenty to admire in Northampton. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, parks, and trails that offer a peaceful retreat from urban life.

Mount Tom State Reservation A popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and bird-watching, Mount Tom offers stunning views of the Connecticut River Valley. The reservation has numerous trails suitable for all skill levels.

Look Memorial Park This 150-acre park features a zoo, mini-golf, paddleboats, and picnic areas. It's a perfect destination for families looking to spend a day outdoors.

Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary Managed by Mass Audubon, this sanctuary offers 724 acres of diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Cultural Hotspots

Northampton is known for its vibrant arts scene. The city is home to numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues that showcase local talent and attract visitors from all over.

Academy of Music Theatre Built in 1891, this historic theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and films. Its beautiful architecture and rich history make it a cultural gem.

Northampton Center for the Arts This community arts center offers classes, workshops, and performances in various disciplines, including dance, theater, and visual arts. It's a hub for local artists and art lovers.

Iron Horse Music Hall A legendary venue in the heart of downtown, Iron Horse Music Hall features live music from both local and national acts. Its intimate setting makes for an unforgettable experience.

Unique Shops and Boutiques

Shopping in Northampton is a delightful experience, thanks to its array of unique shops and boutiques. Whether you're looking for handmade crafts, vintage clothing, or specialty foods, you'll find it here.

Thornes Marketplace A historic building housing a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Thornes Marketplace is a one-stop destination for shopping and dining in downtown Northampton.

Cedar Chest Located within Thornes Marketplace, Cedar Chest offers an eclectic mix of gifts, home decor, and accessories. It's the perfect place to find a unique souvenir.

Pinch A boutique featuring handmade jewelry, ceramics, and textiles from local and national artists. Pinch is a must-visit for anyone looking for one-of-a-kind items.

Food and Drink

Northampton's culinary scene is diverse and vibrant. From farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes, there's something to satisfy every palate.

The Dirty Truth A popular gastropub known for its extensive beer selection and delicious food . The Dirty Truth is a great spot for a casual meal with friends.

Haymarket Cafe A beloved local cafe offering organic coffee, vegetarian fare, and a relaxed atmosphere. Haymarket Cafe is perfect for a leisurely breakfast or lunch.

Northampton Brewery The oldest operating brewpub in New England , Northampton Brewery serves up craft beers and hearty pub fare. Its rooftop beer garden is a favorite spot in the warmer months.

Educational Institutions

Northampton is home to several prestigious educational institutions that contribute to the city's intellectual and cultural vibrancy.

Smith College An elite women's college known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus. Visitors can explore the college's gardens, art museum, and historic buildings.

Hampshire College A liberal arts college with a unique, student-driven curriculum. The campus features innovative architecture and beautiful natural surroundings.

University of Massachusetts Amherst Located just a short drive from Northampton, UMass Amherst is a major public research university. The campus offers a variety of cultural and educational events open to the public.

Festivals and Events

Northampton hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture.

Paradise City Arts Festival Held twice a year, this juried arts festival features works from over 250 artists. It's a great opportunity to see and purchase high-quality art.

Northampton Pride Parade An annual event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. The parade and festival draw thousands of participants and spectators each year.

Northampton Jazz Festival A week-long celebration of jazz music, featuring performances by local and national artists. The festival includes concerts, workshops, and jam sessions.

Outdoor Activities

For those who love the great outdoors, Northampton offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and recreation.

Norwottuck Rail Trail A 10-mile paved trail perfect for biking, walking, and rollerblading. The trail offers scenic views of the Connecticut River and surrounding countryside.

Mill River Greenway A network of trails along the Mill River, ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and fishing. The greenway provides a peaceful escape from the city.

Northampton Community Rowing Offering rowing programs for all ages and skill levels, this organization provides a unique way to enjoy the Connecticut River.

Family-Friendly Spots

Northampton is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep kids entertained.

The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art Located nearby in Amherst, this museum celebrates the art of picture books. It features exhibits, storytimes, and hands-on activities for children.

Northampton Ice Rink Open seasonally, the ice rink offers public skating sessions, lessons, and hockey programs. It's a fun way to stay active during the winter months.

Bounce! Trampoline Sports An indoor trampoline park offering a variety of activities, including open jump sessions, dodgeball, and fitness classes. It's a great place for kids to burn off energy.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known attractions, Northampton has some hidden gems that are worth seeking out.

Fitzwilly's A historic restaurant and bar located in a former 19th-century department store. Fitzwilly's offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu of classic American fare.

The Montague Bookmill A short drive from Northampton, this charming bookstore is housed in a 19th-century gristmill. It features a vast selection of used books and a cafe overlooking the river.

The Botanic Garden of Smith College A beautiful garden and conservatory located on the Smith College campus. The garden features a variety of plants from around the world and offers educational programs and tours.

Northampton's Unforgettable Charm

Northampton's got a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the vibrant arts scene to the peaceful parks, there's something for everyone. Stroll through downtown, and you'll find quirky shops, cozy cafes, and lively music venues. The Smith College campus adds a touch of academic charm with its stunning architecture and botanical gardens.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking trails and scenic views at Mount Tom and the Connecticut River. Don't miss the local festivals and farmers' markets that showcase the community's spirit. Whether you're an art lover, nature buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Northampton won't disappoint.

Plan your visit soon and experience the magic of this charming New England town. You'll leave with memories that last a lifetime and a longing to return. Northampton truly is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

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The Best Places to Travel in November

If you’re scrambling to use up your vacation days before the end of the year, look to the best places to travel in November for inspiration. Tucked between fall getaways and winter holidays , this shoulder season month offers plenty of opportunities for vacations both low-key and luxurious—in fact, you can bypass the crowded airports and dinner-table drama of Thanksgiving entirely if you so desire.

For those hoping to soak up the final glorious weeks of autumn’s aesthetic, the Berkshires have you covered. Places like Vienna and Oaxaca , meanwhile, have lively line-ups of cultural activities and festivals. And then there are the reliable, evergreen favorites that happen to shine a little brighter in November, from St. Barts to the Seychelles. Whether you want to shop, sunbathe, or eat Italian food for an entire week, these are the 10 best places to travel in November this year.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Mark Ellwood.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Every year, on the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar (November 15–16 this year), the skies of Chiang Mai become a true sight to behold. This is courtesy of the annual Yi Peng Lantern Festival , in which people release thousands of glowing orange paper lanterns into the air, to symbolize the release of any negativity from the past year and the invitation of positivity moving forward.

There are tons of other reasons to visit Thailand’s northern cultural capital, of course, from the thriving arts and design scene to steaming bowls of khao soi. When it comes to accommodations, you can’t do much better than Anantara Chiang Mai Resort . Although it’s just a short tuk-tuk ride away from Old Town, the property feels more like a country retreat, thanks to a bamboo wall encircling the entire resort, rooms with super-sized terraces, an infinity pool surrounded by lily ponds, and a decadent afternoon tea service.

Vienna, Austria

As one of the world’s cultural capitals, Vienna offers a constant string of concerts, operas, art fairs, and festivals. This November, visit the Austrian capital for the 20th anniversary of Vienna Art Week (November 8–15), where you can enjoy more than 100 events ranging from studio visits to live performances. The best part? All admission is free.

Keep the artistic vibes going by booking a stay at Almanac Palais Vienna , a boutique property that leans big into sensory experiences, including a revolving collection of works by up-and-coming talents. This season, the hotel will house two sculptures by the Viennese contemporary artist Erwin Wurm, leading up to his first solo exhibition at Galerie bei der Albertina in Vienna’s historic center. After the exhibition wraps, the Almanac will continue to host pieces from the gallery and unveil a dedicated Gustav Klimt suite.

Oaxaca, Mexico

Mexico City isn’t necessarily the best place in the country to dive deep into the Day of the Dead celebrations, one of Mexico’s most ancient festivals. Instead, head down to Oaxaca : Mesoamerican cultures once held sway here, so when the Spanish arrived they co-opted the ancestor-honoring event and folded it into All Saints’ Day. Today, families build ofrendas , or altars, at home and decorate the graves of lost loved ones—expect to see marigolds everywhere and be offered a snack of pan de muerto, the sweet, round bread that’s intended as sustenance for the returning souls.

Remember that it’s as much somber as celebratory—much of what defines Dia de Los Muertos emerges in quiet, late-night contemplation. And don’t forget that Oaxaca is the spiritual home of tequila’s earthier counterpart, mezcal. Most of the best is made here—take a tour of the Montelobos distillery to sample it in situ, or try one of the local bars in town.

November is shoulder season in Panama, as the wet weather of the winter disperses but the prices remain lower than in summer. It’s also when celebrations take place to mark the founding of the country—not once, but twice. On November 28, locals mark Independence Day, when this chunk of central America broke away from colonial Spain in 1821; November 3 is Separation Day, when Panama emerged as a self-governing country separate from Gran Colombia 82 years later. Traditionally, it’s an excuse for the entire month to feel like a party, with parades and fireworks held on a regular basis, all accompanied by thumping drum music.

Book a stay at the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo in Panama City, a 159-room grande dame in the colonial old town of the capital. Staying true to its history with French flair and uplifting design, this is a dazzling way to stay on the waterfront.

Berlin, Germany

It was 35 years ago—on November 9, to be precise—that Mr. Gorbachev tore down that wall. The fall of the Berlin Wall earned its place in the annals of global history, but you need to go straight to the source to truly appreciate and commemorate the momentous event. The German capital will be hosting a series of events and ceremonial acts on and around the 9th, including museum exhibitions and special guided walking and cycling tours.

For somewhere to rest up between tours, look no further than Château Royal . Steps away from the Brandenburg Gate, this Hot List 2023 winner boasts an address and style that are equally fabulous. Unwind in one of the hotel’s 93 guestrooms—adorned with vintage lamps and works by a local artist (each room is completely unique in that respect)—before venturing back out to explore more of Berlin.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

A trip to the Berkshires is like jumping into the pages of an Edith Wharton novel, with Gilded Age mansions and throes of New York City weekenders. (You can even visit Wharton’s own house and gardens.) You could easily spend a few days casually exploring the region’s antique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and luxury spas, but the main seasonal draw is, of course, the fall foliage—the trees are still colorful in mid-November here. Get the best views from the top of Mount Greylock , where you can see up to 90 miles away when the air is clear.

One of the best places to set up camp is Miraval Berkshires in the charming town of Lenox, where horse stables and cottage-style rooms will make you feel like you’re at an upscale sleepaway camp.

Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Though often overlooked for Tuscany’s bucolic hills and the Amalfi Coast’s glittering villages, Emilia-Romagna is well-deserving of the spotlight. The region especially shines in the autumn months, with temperatures hovering in the low 60s and festivals popping up to celebrate the area’s food and wine. Starting in October and stretching through the first weekend of November, the annual Tartufesta (White Truffle Festival) returns this year to the small village of Sasso Marconi surrounding Bologna, complete with markets, tasting menus, and truffle-hunting tours.

Another notable event is Baccanale in the town of Imola (October 19 to November 10), a multi-week festival focusing on a specific aspect of local gastronomy. This year’s theme is “Un filo d’olio” (which translates to “a thread of oil”), focusing on the prolific role oil—specifically olive oil—has played in Italian cuisine and culture.

Come hungry to St. Barts this November, when the island hosts its 11th annual Gourmet Festival from November 5–10. A collection of eight French chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants will cook and host a series of exclusive dinners, as well as wine tastings and amateur cooking competitions.

Another huge reason to visit the Caribbean island is the eternally chic Eden Rock , which continues to be a favorite hotel among our readers and editors . The property boasts suites with private plunge pools, views of the impossibly blue ocean, and some of the most spacious bathrooms you’ve ever seen. Just one night here will make you feel like the most glam, sun-kissed version of yourself.

Want to make Thanksgiving extra memorable this year? Head to Ireland, where your family can enjoy a holiday feast in an actual Irish castle. The 450-acre Dromoland Castle in County Clare is offering a special Thanksgiving package to guests from November 27–30, complete with the aforementioned feast, roaring fires, fine whiskeys, woodland walks, and a round of golf or two.

The castle dates back to the 16th century but recently underwent a $23 million renovation, meaning you can enjoy traditional decor and architectural details (arched windows, spiral staircases, and more) with modern touches like flatscreen TVs and outdoor hot tubs. The castle is also an easy drive away from the Cliffs of Moher, letting you experience one of the world’s most beautiful sites with ease.

The Seychelles

Off the coast of Kenya , the 115 coral and granite islands of the Seychelles are home to lush jungles, spectacular waterfalls, pristine beaches, and some of the most beautiful resorts on the planet. The country also just so happens to be one of the best places to travel in November, representing a break between the humid northwest trade winds and the cooler southeast trade winds. In other words? The weather is absolutely perfect. You’ll also dodge the December high season, allowing you to really enjoy your sunbathing and scuba diving uninterrupted.

For what may end up being the most luxurious experience of your life, stay in one of the 11 fantasy villas at North Island . Bookended by a lush forest and coral-rich water, the resort offers every paradisiacal amenity, from marble tubs and outdoor showers to chefs who prepare meals right in your suite. Good luck returning to your snowy hometown after that.

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7 Cheapest East Coast Cities To Travel To In September 2024

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• The East Coast offers endless budget-friendly trip options in September, including national parks, hidden beaches, and bustling cities.
• Traveling to East Coast cities in the off-peak season like September allows for scoring great deals.
• Some of the cheapest East Coast cities in September 2024 include, Augusta, Boston, Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and many more.

America’s East Coast is vast, and it would take a lifetime to cover all the beautiful places worth visiting. From mountain hikes in East Coast National Parks to hidden gem beaches on Florida’s islands , the region has endless options for fun, unforgettable adventures. However, when it comes to bustling experiences, the East Coast’s world-class cities, which are adorned with iconic attractions, make it stand out.

Whether interested in exploring the rich history of Boston, swimming in some of the nicest beaches in Miami , or taking a trip to NYC’s Statue of Liberty and Staten Island, you will be spoiled for choice. September is a great time to explore the East Coast, as it’s the off-season in many of the cities, and therefore, you can easily score great deals on flights, accommodations, and excursions. Here are some of the cheapest East Coast cities to travel to in September 2024.

The average travel costs have been sourced from BudgetYourTrip .

7 Best East Coast Towns To Visit For Epic Fall Colors This Year

Fall is a fantastic time on the East Coast, with towns dazzling in colorful displays of leaves, festivals, and fun.

7 Augusta, Maine

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $863.

One of the popular US vacation destinations where you can also retire , Augusta, the capital of Maine, was incorporated as a city in 1849 , but its history started in the 1600s when traders first came to the area.

Its rich history is evident in the many landmarks and museums that come with amazing exhibits. The city also boasts scenic hiking trails , vibrant markets, and a breathtaking art scene worth exploring.

It’s one of the cheapest East Coast cities to visit in September, which falls in the off-peak season, and hotels, which go on average for $193 per night per person, normally haven’t hiked their prices at this time of the year. This month is also one of the cheapest to fly to Augusta.

6 Orlando, Florida

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $830.

With more than 18 theme parks, each guaranteeing thrilling experiences for every age, it’s easy to see why the City Beautiful is the Theme Park Capital of the World. Walt Disney World is the most popular destination, but beyond Disney, there are better things to do in Orlando , including the Wheel, Harry P. Leu Gardens, and Pirate’s Cove.

A vacation in Orlando, especially with kids, can be pretty pricey. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to keep your costs down, including choosing the right time to visit Orlando, which is also known for being America’s least walkable city (something to bear in mind if you're not coming in a car). In September, the hotel rates and flight costs are at their lowest, which makes it the most affordable time to tour this amazing city.

Learn expert-approved tips for saving money when visiting Orlando .

5 Boston, Massachusetts

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $705.

Famous for its pioneering US history, Boston has a lot to offer, including a vibrant culture and culinary scene and access to multiple opportunities for outdoor recreation. It’s one of the most popular US cities, and you can discover more than a dozen historical landmarks along the Freedom Trail, one of Boston’s attractions that are very much worth the hype .

Normally, a one-week vacation in Boston costs $1,793 , which is lower than in other major cities like NYC and San Francisco. Besides, a budget traveler only needs around $705. You can reduce your travel costs to Boston by visiting in September, which is when it’s cheapest to fly and score an affordable room with great amenities.

4 Washington D.C.

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $635.

Washington D.C.’s central role in American history makes it a melting pot of incredible museums, historical landmarks, and unforgettable cultural experiences. However, the U.S. capital is not all about history; the city guarantees diverse travel experiences, and whether a food lover or a nature enthusiast, it offers something for everyone.

You can visit the beautiful beaches near Washington D.C. or explore the gorgeous national parks in and around D.C . The U.S. capital does have a reputation for being a pricey place to live, but it’s definitely affordable as a travel destination. The Smithsonian museums, which are some of the most iconic attractions in the city, are all free to explore, and you will find plenty of other free things to do in DC .

18 Small Towns Near Washington D.C. You'll Love Visiting

Washington D.C. is surrounded by beautiful small towns that vacationers can explore on day trips. Out of all the towns and cities near DC, visit these

3 Miami, Florida

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $602.

Miami is world-renowned for its beach scene, and you can never go wrong with the nicest beaches the locals prefer in the city . Extreme sports like jet skiing and flyboarding, as well as delicious food, are other incredible things Miami is known and famous for .

When it comes to travel costs, Miami can be quite expensive, but it can also be affordable. The city’s peak seasons are spring and fall when the weather is mild. With its off-season stretching from the beginning to the end of summer, September is a great time to enjoy some of the most affordable deals.

2 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $534.

Myrtle Beach is known for its breathtaking white-sand beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and an incredible selection of golf courses. It’s considered one of the perfect family beach destinations in the U.S. with a fun-filled boardwalk, impressive amusement parks, and top-rated restaurants serving delicious seafood.

Summer is the high season in this city, making September a cheaper time to enjoy its scenic adventures. With flight tickets averaging $136 in September , it’s the cheapest time to fly to Myrtle Beach. Hotel prices, which usually average $180 per night and $1,257 for a one-week trip , go down at the end of August.

Here Are The Quietest Beach Alternatives Near Myrtle Beach

Escape the crowds and unwind at the quietest beach spots just a stone's throw away from Myrtle Beach.

1 Charleston, South Carolina

The average cost of a one-week budget trip: $483.

Charleston, South Carolina’s oldest and largest city, is famous for many things, including its charming architecture, cobblestone streets, and delicious Southern food. Travelers keep voting this Southern city best in the U.S. , thanks to its historic charm, vibrant cultural scene, and miles of pristine beaches.

Although it’s a year-round vacation spot, spring and fall are when the temperature is most comfortable, and unfortunately, these are the peak seasons. However, if you visit in September, before peak autumn visitors arrive, you can enjoy the cheapest yet beautiful travel experiences.

Charleston is beautiful but can get crowded in the high season. Try a tranquil and authentic experience in one of the scenic small towns in South Carolina that are great Charleston alternatives .

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New personal electronics policy in effect for students in newton, massachusetts.

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Nearly 12,000 students are returning to class Tuesday in Newton, Massachusetts, with a new personal electronics policy in place.

Elementary and middle schoolers have to turn off and put away their cell phones for the entire school day.

For high school students, personal electronics will be placed in teacher-designated holding areas during class.

The district is also filtering social media at all middle and high schools. Sites like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram will be blocked on all school-issued devices.

Classes are resuming after a tumultuous school year. Teachers and staff went on strike for 11 days in January before a new four-year contract was finalized. It includes yearly pay increases and a new parental leave policy.

The new contract went into effect on Sept. 1.

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N.Y. Official Charged With Taking Money, Travel and Poultry to Aid China

Linda Sun, who worked for both Gov. Kathy Hochul and Gov. Andrew Cuomo, was accused of using her position to benefit the Chinese government.

New York Official Is Charged as Chinese Agent

Linda sun, a former aide to gov. kathy hochul, was charged with 10 criminal counts that included visa fraud, money laundering and other crimes..

“Linda, what do you have to say to the allegations?” “We have a lot of confidence in our case. A lot of the allegations in this indictment are, frankly, perplexing, overly inflammatory.”

By Hurubie Meko and William K. Rashbaum

In July 2021, six Nanjing-style salted ducks, prepared by a Chinese consulate official’s private chef, were delivered to the parents of an aide to New York’s then governor, Andrew M. Cuomo. About four months later, another six ducks arrived at their home. Another four months later, there were more salted ducks. Eight months after that: still more salted ducks.

Prosecutors say that the poultry shipments, described in a federal indictment unsealed Tuesday, were just a small part of a yearslong series of payoffs to the aide, Linda Sun , in exchange for actions that benefited the People’s Republic of China and its Communist Party. The 65-page indictment also described travel benefits, event tickets and the promotion of a close friend’s freight business with a headquarters in Queens.

Prosecutors say that Ms. Sun blocked Taiwanese officials from having access to the governor’s office, eliminated references to Taiwan from state communications and quashed meetings between Taiwanese officials and state leaders, including Gov. Kathy Hochul, who succeeded Mr. Cuomo and who promoted Ms. Sun to deputy chief of staff.

She also ensured that state officials did not publicly address the persecution of Uyghurs, a primarily Muslim ethnic group that for more than a thousand years has lived in a region of what is now China, prosecutors said.

Ms. Sun, 40, was charged on Tuesday with 10 criminal counts that included visa fraud, money laundering and other crimes. Her husband, Chris Hu, 41, a businessman, is charged in the indictment with money laundering.

Both pleaded not guilty in federal court, were released on bond and were required to surrender their passports.

Breon Peace, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, who oversaw the investigation with the F.B.I., said in a statement that Ms. Sun betrayed the public trust.

“While appearing to serve the people of New York as deputy chief of staff within the New York State Executive Chamber, the defendant and her husband actually worked to further the interests of the Chinese government and the CCP,” Mr. Peace said.

Linda Sun’s lawyer, Jarrod Schaeffer, said that Ms. Sun was looking forward to addressing the indictment in court. “Our client is understandably upset that these charges have been brought,” Mr. Schaeffer said.

The accusations, if true, would represent a brazen manipulation of New York State government at the highest level, covering several years of the administrations of Ms. Hochul and Mr. Cuomo, both Democrats.

Avi Small, the press secretary for Ms. Hochul, said that Ms. Sun “was hired by the executive chamber more than a decade ago,” adding that Hochul administration officials “immediately reported her actions to law enforcement and have assisted law enforcement throughout this process.”

He said that the administration “terminated her employment in March 2023 after discovering evidence of misconduct.”

The charges are the latest in the Justice Department’s initiative — driven especially in recent years by the U.S. attorney’s office in Brooklyn — to stop efforts by the Chinese government to wield its influence secretly across the United States.

Last month, Shujun Wang, 75, a Queens man who billed himself as a democracy activist and scholar , was convicted in Brooklyn federal court of acting as a spy for the Chinese Communist Party. Last summer, prosecutors won a case in the same court against three men who stalked a family in New Jersey on behalf of the Chinese government . In another case, two men were accused of running a secret police station for China in a Lower Manhattan building.

The push by prosecutors comes as escalating tensions between the United States and China over wars, trade and technology have damaged their diplomatic relationship. China’s claims over portions of the South China Sea and the island of Taiwan have been bitterly disputed and were at the center of the allegations against Ms. Sun on Tuesday.

A spokesman for the Chinese Embassy, Liu Pengyu, said in a statement that he was not aware of the specific details of the case. He added: “But in recent years, the U.S. government and media have frequently hyped up the so-called ‘Chinese agents’ narratives, many of which have later been proven untrue. China requires its citizens overseas to comply with the laws and regulations of the host country, and we firmly oppose the groundlessly slandering and smearing targeting China.”

Ms. Sun served as a deputy chief of staff to Ms. Hochul after holding a series of state government positions. In those jobs, according to the indictment, she used her sway to steer state officials away from actions that could have implied support for Taiwan. Nationalists established their own government on the island in 1949 after a civil war, and the People’s Republic of China has laid claim to it ever since.

“No meeting please,” she wrote to an Assembly member who had invited the governor to meet with the ambassador of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office. “Kindly decline. Do not want her to wade into this China/Taiwan sensitivity.”

Prosecutors also accused Ms. Sun of providing unauthorized invitation letters from the governor’s office to make it easier for Chinese government officials to travel to the United States and meet with state officials in New York.

She even arranged, without proper authorization, for Chinese government officials to receive official proclamations, formal framed documents that bear the state seal and the governor’s signature. While these declarations hold little real meaning, some foreign officials hold them in high esteem.

In 2019, Tsai Ing-wen, who was then president of Taiwan, stopped in New York City during a visit to the United States . The Chinese government was opposed to Ms. Tsai’s visit, even asking the United States government not to permit it.

Taiwanese officials invited Ms. Sun and Mr. Cuomo to a banquet, prosecutors said. However, Ms. Sun never forwarded the invitation and instead told the Taiwanese officials that Mr. Cuomo was hosting an activity day for staff members in the Catskills.

“I already blocked it,” Ms. Sun wrote to a Chinese government official, according to the indictment.

On the day of the banquet, Ms. Sun joined leaders of local Chinese associations in a protest in Manhattan against Ms. Tsai, according to prosecutors.

In 2021, federal prosecutors said, Ms. Sun allowed a Chinese government official to “shape the content” of public remarks by Ms. Hochul and ensured that she “did not publicly address the detention of Uyghurs in PRC state-run camps in Xinjiang Province.”

Among the benefits Ms. Sun received, according to the indictment, were the assistance with millions of dollars in transactions for China-based businesses tied to Mr. Hu; travel benefits; tickets to events such as a performance by the Chinese National Traditional Orchestra at Carnegie Hall; the promotion of the Queens freight business; and employment for Ms. Sun’s cousin in China.

Prosecutors say Ms. Sun and Mr. Hu laundered the money they received to buy, among other things, their $3.6 million, five-bedroom home on a cul-de-sac in Manhasset, on the North Shore of Long Island; a $1.9 million condominium in Honolulu; and luxury cars, including a 2024 Ferrari.

Six weeks ago, F.B.I. agents descended on the cul-de-sac in Manhasset and searched the couple’s house in an early-morning raid.

The indictment accuses Ms. Sun of failing to disclose benefits from the Chinese government or the Chinese Communist Party to the government in New York, as she was required to do under law.

Ms. Sun worked in state government for nearly 14 years, holding a variety of positions in the administrations of Mr. Cuomo and Ms. Hochul, according to her LinkedIn profile. She began in the legislative branch, working as chief of staff to an assemblywoman, Grace Meng, who is now a congresswoman.

Robert G. Ortt, the Senate Republican leader, said Tuesday that Ms. Sun’s employment had been “an alarming security failure” and asked for an investigation to establish who should be held accountable.

Richard Azzopardi, a spokesman for Mr. Cuomo, said Ms. Sun had held only minor positions when Mr. Cuomo was governor. “While Ms. Sun was promoted to deputy chief of staff in the subsequent administration, during our time she worked in a handful of agencies and was one of many community liaisons who had little to no interaction with the governor,” he said.

Ms. Sun held jobs focused on business development, Asian American affairs and diversity, equity and inclusion. She left Ms. Hochul’s executive chamber after roughly 15 months, moving on to a position at the New York Department of Labor in November 2022. Five months later, she left to serve as campaign manager for Austin Cheng, a Democrat who unsuccessfully ran for a congressional seat on Long Island.

Even after Ms. Sun was let go by the Labor Department in March 2023, she continued to attend public and professional Asian community events, falsely claiming to be the department’s deputy commissioner, according to the indictment. Ms. Sun apparently stopped doing so after receiving a cease-and-desist letter from the Labor Department that August.

Ms. Sun’s husband, Mr. Hu, operates a liquor store in Flushing, Queens, called Leivine Wine & Spirits. Over the past decade, he has incorporated several other businesses, including a company he created in 2020 during the early days of the pandemic called Medical Supplies USA. He also created two other businesses, Golden Capital Group in 2016 and LCA Holdings in 2023, the nature of which could not be determined.

Outside Brooklyn federal court on Tuesday, lawyers for Ms. Sun and Mr. Hu addressed a pool of reporters, saying that they had confidence in the strength of the defense case.

“A number of the allegations in the indictment are, frankly, inflammatory, perplexing,” said Seth DuCharme, who represents Mr. Hu.

During the hearing, prosecutors described what they said was a complex set of evidence, much of it in Mandarin. Alex Solomon, an assistant U.S. attorney, said the couple “operated a multitude of shell entities,” including “more than 80 different accounts.”

“This is no ordinary financial fraud,” Mr. Solomon said.

Benjamin Oreskes , Jay Root and Olivia Bensimon contributed reporting.

An earlier version of this article misspelled the name of Linda Sun’s lawyer. It is Jarrod Schaeffer, not Jerrod Schaeffer.

An earlier version of this article misstated who was New York governor when salted ducks were delivered to the parents of an aide to the governor. It was Andrew M. Cuomo, not Kathy Hochul; Ms. Hochul became governor the following month.

How we handle corrections

Hurubie Meko is a Times reporter covering the New York Police Department and criminal justice in the New York region. More about Hurubie Meko

William K. Rashbaum is a Times reporter covering municipal and political corruption, the courts and broader law enforcement topics in New York. More about William K. Rashbaum

Politics in the New York Region

State Official Charged: Linda Sun, who worked for both Gov. Kathy Hochul and Gov. Andrew Cuomo , was accused of using her position to benefit the Chinese government.

Long Island House Race: Kamala Harris’s candidacy is boosting the slim chances of John Avlon, a Democrat and former CNN commentator who is running against Nick Lalota , a Republican who has held the seat since 2022.

  George Santos Pleads Guilty: The disgraced former Republican congressman pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft . While his plea will allow him to avoid a trial, it all but ensures he will face prison time.

N.Y.C. Mayoral Race: The Israel-Hamas war has divided Democrats across the nation, particularly in New York City. Now the fissures threaten to roil next year’s Democratic primary for mayor .

Nassau County Mask Ban: The Republican-controlled Legislature in Nassau County passed a law that would ban masks in public , with exceptions for health and religious reasons.