top tourist attractions 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.

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

1620 Winery

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

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)

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

W. Russell Blake Planetarium

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

Plymouth planetarium provides perfect evening for star-gazers

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

Southwick’s Zoo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts

Destination Berkshires: Create Your Summer Itinerary

The Steamship Authority

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

Boston from the Sidewalk

Old Italy Flavors at Caffe Vittoria

Beautiful Marsh Welcomes Walkers

History of Boston on Display Along This Walk to the Sea

Find Contemporary Art and Advice from an Expert

Antiques Are Plentiful at This Cambridge Market

Artist Colony Is Vibrant in Gloucester

Here Lies Hawthorne

A Garden Shop Like a Roman Piazza

Kids Love to Explore ‘the Olden Days’

Enjoy a 20th-Century Diplomat’s House & Gardens

Stroll Charming Downtown Gloucester

Prowl for Fashionable Objects of the Past

Fruitlands Is Home to four Fascinating Museums

Books, Soft Chairs, and a River View

Johnny Appleseed Trail Through Picturesque Towns

Bridge of Flowers Is Like Nothing You’ve Ever Seen

A Little Walk; a Little Chocolate; and Repeat

Riverwalk Is an Urban Treat

Tuck in to Truro for Wine and Spirits Tastings

Come Aboard Old Ironsides

Out in the Woods, in Sight of Boston

Walking Trails Criss-Cross This Beautiful Island

In the Footsteps of Pilgrims

Pittsfield Hops with Shopping and Browsing Fun

Broadmoor Offers Broad Variety

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Must-see attractions in Massachusetts

Museum of Science

The educational playground that is the Museum of Science has more than 600 interactive exhibits. Favorites include the world’s largest lightning-bolt…

Plimoth Plantation

South Shore

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Punto Urban Art Museum

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If you walk south on Lafayette from Derby St, you'll find yourself on the other side of the tracks (or river, in this case). Welcome to El Punto, or ‘The…

Cape Cod National Seashore

Cape Cod National Seashore extends some 40 miles around the curve of the Outer Cape and encompasses the Atlantic shoreline from Orleans all the way to…

Institute of Contemporary Art

Boston has become a focal point for contemporary art in the 21st century, with the Institute of Contemporary Art leading the way. The building is a work…

Campgrounds & Tabernacle

Martha's Vineyard

Oak Bluffs started out in the mid-19th century as a summer retreat by a revivalist church, whose members enjoyed a day at the beach as much as a gospel…

Peabody Essex Museum

All of the art, artifacts and curiosities that Salem merchants brought back from the Far East were the foundation for this museum. Founded in 1799, it is…

Nantucket Whaling Museum

One of the island's highlights, this evocative museum occupies an 1847 spermaceti (whale oil) candle factory and the excellent exhibits relive Nantucket's…

Salt Pond Visitor Center

The Salt Pond Visitor Center is the place to start exploring the National Seashore – and it has a great view to boot. Here you'll find exhibits and short…

Mayflower II

If Plymouth Rock tells us little about the Pilgrims, Mayflower II speaks volumes. Climb aboard this replica of the small ship in which the Pilgrims made…

Old State House

Dating from 1713, the Old State House is Boston’s oldest surviving public building, where the Massachusetts Assembly used to debate the issues of the day…

Underground at Ink Block

South End & Chinatown

What used to be an abandoned parking lot beneath the interstate is now an 8-acre playground and art space. The main draw is the fantastic mural project,…

Pilgrim Hall Museum

Claiming to be the oldest continually operating public museum in the country, Pilgrim Hall Museum was founded in 1824. Its exhibits are not reproductions…

Menemsha Harbor & Beach

Virtually unchanged since it appeared in the movie Jaws 40 years ago, Menemsha is a relaxing outpost to explore. Basin Rd borders a harbor of fishing…

New England Aquarium

Teeming with sea creatures of all sizes, shapes and colors, this giant fishbowl is the centerpiece of downtown Boston's waterfront. There are countless…

Old North Church

Longfellow’s poem 'Paul Revere’s Ride' has immortalized this graceful church. It was here, on the night of April 18, 1775, that the sexton hung two…

Heritage Museums & Gardens

Fun for kids and adults alike, the 100-acre Heritage Museums & Gardens sports a superb vintage automobile collection in a Shaker-style round barn, an…

Captains' Mile

Nearly 50 historic sea captains' homes are lined up along MA 6A (the Old King's Hwy) in Yarmouth Port, on a 1.5-mile stretch known as the Captains' Mile…

John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum

Hyannis has been the summer home of the Kennedy clan for generations. Back in the day, JFK spent the warmer months here – times that are beautifully…

Nantucket Atheneum

More than just the public library, this stately Greek Revival edifice is a sight in itself. The 2nd-floor Great Hall has hosted such notables as Ralph…

Brant Point Light

Welcoming ferries into Nantucket Harbor, this lighthouse was established in 1746 and is still in operation. It's quite tiny (only 26ft), but impossibly…

First Congregational Church

Everyone comes to this church, which traces its roots to the early 1700s, for the eagle-eye view from the top of the steeple. It's well worth the 94-step…

Franklin Park Zoo

Tucked into Franklin Park, the zoo features a half-dozen different habitats, as well as special exhibits devoted to birds and butterflies. The highlight…

Stellwagen Bank

Stellwagen Bank is 842 sq miles of open ocean rich in marine life. The area was declared a National Marine Sanctuary in 1992 to conserve the area's…

Witch Trials Memorial

The most poignant site in Salem is the Witch Trials Memorial, a quiet park behind the Peabody Essex Museum, where simple stones are inscribed with the…

Yin Yu Tang

Contained within the Peabody Essex Museum, this 16-room Chinese house was shipped to the museum from China's southeastern Huizhou region.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

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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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55+ Things to Do in Massachusetts: Your MA Travel Guide

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You might be thinking to yourself, what is Massachusetts known for? What is there to do in Massachusetts? Well, the Bay State is well-known for all kinds of very Massachusetts things to do, attracting as many as 31 million visitors each year! From the big city of Boston to the quaint towns of the Berkshires , there is no shortage of fun things to do in MA!

In this post, we hope to provide a Massachusetts bucket list for you: a list of the essential activities, sites, and fun places to visit in Massachusetts. While this is certainly not a comprehensive list of all the best things to do in MA, this Massachusetts travel guide has been designed to cover as much as possible. If you want to dive deeper into a destination or activity, each item has links to lead you to further information.

Ready to get inspired for your next trip to Massachusetts? Let’s go!

Table of Contents

55+ Fun Things to Do in Massachusetts

Walk boston’s freedom trail.

Boston is at the top of the list for cool places to go in Massachusetts, for sure. There are tons of things to do in Boston for visitors of all kinds. Whatever your interest, there are plenty of activities in Boston MA that will call to you, but it may be especially intriguing to history buffs.

Boston is home to a tremendous depth of American History. One of the key activities for a visitor to the city is to walk the Freedom Trail .

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile path that takes you around Boston on a route passing 16 important historical sites, including the Paul Revere House, Old State House, and Granary Burying Ground.

Also check out:  18 of the Best Free Things to Do in Boston | Weekend in Boston: A Perfect 2 Day Itinerary

Experience a classic New England Christmas

As the year comes to an end, the magic of the holiday season holds Massachusetts in its grasp. There are countless things to do for the Christmas season in Massachusetts , especially if you want to experience a classic Christmas. From cutting down your own Christmas tree to Christmas events in Boston , the Norman Rockwell classic Main Street Christmas in Stockbridge at Christmas , you truly can’t pick a better region in which to celebrate the holidays.

Sip some Sam Adams

Sampling craft beer is a longtime staple of Massachusetts fun. While we recommend making time to tour a variety of breweries, one of the most essential is the Sam Adams brewery. If you can visit this Boston brewery, do so, as it’s a good time. If not, just grab a Sam at a local restaurant or pub. Cheers!

Explore the witchy history of Salem

Salem is one of the most fascinating places to visit, and if you’re looking for things to do in Massachusetts in October, this should be at the top of your list!

We recommend visiting Salem in October for the iconic fall/Halloween experience, but Salem is a great destination at any time of year (and is likely to be far less crowded in the other months)! Scope out the sites where Hocus Pocus was filmed , sample the goods of the local restaurant scene , and enjoy all the free things to do in Salem that make it one of the most popular Massachusetts tourist attractions!

Salem was home to the infamous Witch Trials of the 1690s. There’s lots to discover about that time during your visit, but Salem has plenty more to explore, including literary legends, maritime history, and more.

Brush Up on Your Boston Slang

Visiting Boston MA? Wicked cool, but you’d bettah brush up on your Boston slang first! Don’t want to get Southie and South End confused, and if you’re a coffee drinker, you’re going to want to know what you’re in for if you ask for a regular coffee!

Visit the literary legends in Concord

Speaking of literary legends, Massachusetts may have some kind of record for them; so many well-known authors and poets have been born or lived here, so if you’re a lover of literature and looking for what to do in Massachusetts, a visit to Concord needs to be at the top of your list!

Concord, MA is one of the best MA destinations for those in search of literary sites. Among the authors who lived here are Louisa May Alcott, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Henry David Thoreau.

Read Next: Exploring Concord’s Literary History |  25 Must-Read Books Set in New England

Cheer on the Red Sox

Taking in a Red Sox game at Fenway is a rite of passage for a New Englander, and an absolute must do in Massachusetts for any self-respecting baseball fan! If you’re unable to attend a game, consider taking a guided tour of historic Fenway Park . You can squeeze one in during this guided 24 hour itinerary of a fun day in Boston !

Frolic in the daffodils

You can’t pick the flowers at Parsons Reserve Daffodil Field in Dartmouth, but you can most certainly walk amongst the sunny daffodil fields and take in these gorgeous bursts of color as they bloom mid-April to early May. If you’re looking for spring things to do in Massachusetts, this is perfect!

See some incredible lighthouses

Home to nearly 50 lighthouses, it’s no wonder that basically every Massachusetts vacation guide you’ll come across is going to include a visit to a lighthouse! Those traveling from outside of New England are likely to want to see (and photograph ) some of these incredible structures. After all, when it comes to things to do in Massachusetts, seeing lighthouses are some of the most essential items on any MA bucket list!

Take a duck tour in Boston

Boston’s Duck Tours are a classic Boston activity for any visitor. These amphibious boats bring you on a tour of the city by river and by land; the perfect way to travel!

Click here to book a duck tour.

Stroll down Rockport’s Bearskin Neck

Just an hour or so north of Boston is the quaint town of Rockport . This spot has been known as an artist’s colony for years, and it’s easy to see why. Rockport is one of the most beautiful places in Massachusetts. In fact, the old fishing shack pictured below, Motif #1, has been called the most painted structure in the US, as it is the subject of countless paintings and works of art.

A visit to Rockport is a great addition to any Massachusetts things to do list.

Eat a fresh lobster roll

In Rockport, Boston, or pretty much anywhere along the coast of MA, you will want to try some lobster during your vacation. If you’re not a fan of a full boiled or steamed lobster, you may like the variation of a cold lobster roll sandwich; a lobster roll is definitely the best of Massachusetts!

“Summer” on the Cape

Cape Cod is one of America’s summer playgrounds, and you will fall in love with it as have countless before you. Beaches, vineyards, horseback riding, sailing, biking. Don’t miss this top MA destination, because when it comes to Massachusetts in summer, it doesn’t get much better than Cape Cod !

Attend New England’s best renaissance festival

I love a Renaissance festival, and Massachusetts has a fantastic one in Carver: King Richard’s Faire . This annual event is one of the best things to do in Massachusetts in the fall, bringing with it live entertainment, performers and guests in costume, themed weekends, amazing food, music, and even a jousting tournament; how’s that sound for fun in Massachusetts?

Stand in line for one of the North End’s famous cannolis

The question of where to find the best cannoli in Boston has been the subject of heated debate. You’ll have to answer the question for yourself. But that sounds like a particularly delicious project, doesn’t it? It might even take you to some of the best restaurants in Boston MA !

You could also sample more of Boston’s culinary favorites on a food tour .

Go to a concert at Tanglewood

Tanglewood is a summer music venue in Lenox, MA. It is the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, as well as hosting many contemporary acts in their venues, including open air concerts that can be attended from the lawn. James Taylor is a frequent performer at Tanglewood; this is definitely one of the top summer activities in Massachusetts!

Go whale watching

One of the best things about Massachusetts is that from April through October, it’s whale watching season on the MA coast. Hop aboard a whale watching tour to go and catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

I have personally sailed twice with 7 Seas Whale Watch out of Gloucester, and I have greatly enjoyed my experience both times! Spotting the whales is an exhilarating experience, and you learn a lot about them on the ride out to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, where the whales are seen.

Catch amazing theatre at Shakespeare & Company

This professional theatre company in the Berkshires presents stellar performances in a lovely setting; this is definitely one of those Mass things to do that is very New England!

Party in Provincetown

Provincetown , also known as P-Town, has a rich history and a modern vibe. Today, it’s known for its vibrant community that is extremely LGBTQ+ welcoming. The calendar is stocked with constant activities and events, and there are lots of great restaurants and places to stay to choose from, too!

Discover Revolutionary History in Concord, Lexington, and beyond

Looking for history-heavy attractions in Massachusetts? Head to Concord. The first rumblings, protests, and finally the battles of the Revolutionary War were all fought in Massachusetts. You can delve deep into history of MA, and especially in the Concord and Lexington areas. Don’t miss Minute Man National Historical Park, where the opening battle of the Revolution is brought to life.

Read More: Top 13 Historic Sites in Massachusetts

Pick apples in September

One of the best things to do in Massachusetts in September, the apple orchards are filled with ripe fruit ready to be picked! Heading with your family to a local farm or orchard is an autumn tradition. Definitely something to add to your MA travel itinerary, especially if you’re looking for family fun Massachusetts style!

Read Next :  7 Great Places to Go Apple Picking in Massachusetts

Step back in time at Plimoth Plantation

You’ll be diving into early American history at Plimoth Plantation , located in Plymouth, MA . Yes, this is THAT Plymouth, where the pilgrims landed in the Mayflower .

This living history museum doesn’t just cover the Colonial history, however, but also focuses on the Wampanoag Tribe, the people native to the region. You will learn a lot during your visit here and will likely feel you’ve stepped back in time.

Don’t miss touring the Mayflower II , a full-scale reproduction of the original 1600s ship that sits in the harbor. Honestly, the whole town is one of the best tourist attractions in Massachusetts!

Daffodil festival in Nantucket

Every April in Nantucket, you can find the Nantucket Daffodil Festival, a joyful celebration of this bright yellow beacon of springtime.

Tour Harvard’s hallowed halls

This iconic Ivy League campus deserves a visit when you’re traveling in Boston.

Take a hike

It might sound like a basic item to cross off your MA bucket list, but it’s an essential one because Massachusetts is home to some great hikes ! Though you won’t find the high peaks of New Hampshire here, there is plenty of diverse terrain and altitude variation to keep things interesting.

And of course, there is gorgeous scenery all around as you get to play in some of the most beautiful places in Massachusetts !

Visit some haunted spots

Being as old as it is, the region of New England has grown up with some tall tales, legends, and mysteries surrounding it. Massachusetts is one of the most mythical of the states, boasting lots of potentially haunted spots. Places like the Danvers State Hospital and the Lizzie Borden House are among MA’s most infamous, so if you’re looking for entertainment in Massachusetts that’s on the spooky side, this might be it!

Whether it’s abandoned spots or ghost towns you’re interested in, there are some pretty spooky things to do in Massachusetts!

Eat clam chowder

New England clam chowder is one of the most traditional foods of Massachusetts, and it was created here. Enjoy a hot, steaming bowl of the creamy good stuff while you’re here.

Peer at The Bulb River

Do you enjoy flowers? What about flowers that look like a cascading river or waterfall? The Bulb River, a carefully cultivated flow of rich purple hyacinths, can be found each year at Heritage Museums & Gardens in Sandwich, Massachusetts.

You’ll have to time your visit well to catch the Bulb River; it generally blooms in early May and lasts for approximately one week, so if you’re planning a trip to Massachusetts in May, you might just catch it, but the gardens offer other beautiful displays throughout the year.

Pay a visit to Boston’s many museums

Boston has dozens of awesome museums. Personally, my favorite is the Boston Science Museum , a thrilling place that kids and adults alike can enjoy for hours on end. Other worthwhile choices include Boston Museum of Fine Arts, the Boston Children’s Museum, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, and the Harvard Museum of Natural History. This is definitely one of the top things to do in Massachusetts with kids!

If you’re planning to visit a few of Boston’s best museums, you will want to consider getting a Boston attractions pass. Read this to help you choose the best one to get: Go Boston Card vs Boston CityPASS: Which is Better?

Wander through old cemeteries

Morbid? Maybe. But cemeteries are a fascinating link between the present day and the past. I think New England’s historic graveyards are beautiful and interesting, and I’ve rarely seen older gravestones anywhere in the US; this is a beautiful way to explore Massachusetts’ history!

Marvel at Bash Bish Falls

Looking for things to do in Western MA ? This waterfall, the highest single-drop waterfall in the whole state, is very close to the border with New York. You can hike to the base of the falls in around 2/3 of a mile. More info here.

Read Next:  12 Must-See Waterfalls in Massachusetts 

Book a fall foliage getaway in a cozy cabin

Check into an idyllic cabin for the perfect weekend getaway from Boston, NYC, or wherever you’re coming from. Consider booking a stay in a cozy cabin during fall foliage season or as the snow starts to fall; when it comes to fun things to do in Massachusetts in winter, how fantastic does getting snowed in with your favorite people sound?

Learn about maritime history at the New Bedford Whaling Museum.

One of the must do things in Massachusetts for the history fan or lover of the sea is the  New Bedford Whaling Museum . Here you can further appreciate New England’s rich maritime past and learn all about the art of whaling, which played a massive role in New England’s economic history.

Walk along the Bridge of Flowers

What could be more charming than this 400-foot long bridge that is covered in flowers? You can walk this beautiful garden space found in Shelburne Falls, MA, definitely one of the best things to do in Massachusetts in the summer!

Visit Patriot Place

Massachusetts loves its sports. Gillette Stadium in Foxborough is home to the New England Patriots football team. It’s also home to Patriot Place , an attraction in its own right. There is so much to do here! Entertainment, food, shopping, a nature trail/cranberry bog, and more.

Take a walk through the House of the Seven Gables

Visiting Salem is already on this list, but I wanted to point you to this literary attraction in the town: the House of the Seven Gables. This is not only an incredible, historic old home, it’s also famous for its role in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s work of the same name, and certainly one of the must visit cool things to see in Massachusetts!

Tour historic homes

Speaking of historic mansions and houses, New England has them in spades. A few nice places to visit in Massachusetts that we haven’t mentioned yet include Naumkeag in Stockbridge , The Mount (Edith Wharton’s home) in Lenox, and Gore Place in Waltham.

Seek out magical small towns

Massachusetts may be known for the big city of Boston, but its essential charm is found in its rural, small towns . Most of these are found in the western and central portions of the state, but really, you can’t take many trips to Massachusetts without stumbling across some of these charming spots.

Sip the delights of the Nashoba Winery

There are an abundance of wineries producing exceptional wines in Massachusetts and in New England as a whole. One standout is Nashoba Valley Winery in Massachusetts, where you can enjoy a strawberry rhubarb wine.

Go kayaking at Plum Island

In addition to its coastal position, Massachusetts is home to myriad of lakes and rivers. That makes kayaking an excellent outdoor activity, wherever you’re visiting in the state. For some fun coastal kayaking, consider Plum Island , a barrier island just off of Newburyport . Plum Island Kayak offers tours and rentals so you can see some of the most beautiful spots in the area.

The Paul Revere House

Remember that guy who cried out “the British are coming”? That was Paul Revere on his famous midnight ride. In Boston, you can see his house and other historic buildings. (This is a stop along the Freedom Trail, if you are following that through the city). You should definitely make it a point to see this historic landmark, one of the best things to do when visiting MA!

Take the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket

Don’t just stay on the mainland when traveling to Massachusetts; make some time for the MA islands as well. Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard have so much to offer and they are both laid back and charming, with their own distinctive vibes; check out these gorgeous places to stay on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard !

There are multiple ferry options for both: Nantucket Ferry  | Martha’s Vineyard Ferry

Meet the animals at a working farm

This is an especially nice activity if you’re traveling to Massachusetts with kids. A working farm, such as Dalby Farm in Scituate, MA, gives visitors an opportunity to have close encounters with the farm animals.

Stay at the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast

Have a burning desire to stay in a haunted hotel or inn? Well, you’ve come to the right region. New England is bursting with possibly haunted hotels . One of these rumored to be haunted is a spot with a particularly grisly past: the Lizzie Borden House. Now it’s a Massachusetts B&B where you can stay in the infamous rooms where horrible things happened. You in? Go for it.

Help out at a cranberry bog

Did you know you can help out with the cranberry harvest at a local bog? Definitely one of the more unique experiences Massachusetts has to offer! Cranberries are grown in a very interesting way, and when the time comes to harvest them, the bogs are flooded to raise up the ripe berries. Check out the bogs you can visit here .

Go Cross Country Skiing

Looking for Massachusetts things to do in winter? Cross country skiing is a great choice if you’re looking to get out in the snow for a bit of a workout in some seriously scenic XC spots in MA.

Walk through Arnold Arboretum

Beautiful Arnold Arboretum in Boston is home to so many spectacular blooms like cherry trees, rhododendrons, and so much more, but if you visit on Lilac Sunday, you’ll get to experience a beloved spring event that is one of the coolest experiences in MA for nature lovers!

Spend a day at the beach

Massachusetts has many miles of coastline, so don’t neglect enjoying it! There are rocky parts of the coast as well as flat sandy beaches. While the water is a bit chillier than you might find at other beaches farther south, the coast here is so lovely, you will undoubtedly be drawn to it. Many of MA’s best beaches are found on Cape Cod.

Read This : 15 Best Beaches in Massachusetts

Luxuriate at Blantyre

You deserve to be pampered! Consider Blantyre , located in the Berkshires. This place is the epitome of luxury. Book a stay that will make you feel like royalty. Especially check out the Manor House, which has total Gilded Age vibes and is one of those magical places in Massachusetts that will have you wondering when you died and went to heaven!

See also: 10 Romantic Getaways in Massachusetts for the Perfect Couples Escape

Get cultured at Mass MoCA in North Adams

Contemporary art aficionados will enjoy Mass MoCA , the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art. With exhibitions, educational programs, and a full calendar of events (including concerts), there’s a lot going on in this little northwest corner of the state.

Stay at a charming Cape Cod Inn

When it comes to charm, Cape Cod has plenty of it, and Captain’s House Inn is no exception! If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Massachusetts, consider whisking your favorite person off to Cape Cod’s Captain’s House Inn! You can read about our experience here: Staying at the Captains House Inn, Cape Cod: A Review

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

Witness the running of the lambs at Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village is a worthwhile Massachusetts attraction in Sturbridge . This living history museum recreates daily life in the late 1700s and early 1800s. In spring, the newborn lambs make the village extra special, and at the end of the day you can watch “the running of the lambs” as both lambs and sheep run across the common to be fed at the barn. This is definitely one of those unique places to visit in Massachusetts!

Massachusetts Central Rail Trail

If you love biking, you should grab your wheels and take a ride on the longest rail trail in the Northeast. That is the Massachusetts Central Rail Trail , and it will eventually stretch 104 miles from Boston to Northampton . Additional miles are opening up all the time, although currently there are only 51 miles open.  Pass through 25 communities on this bike path that is an important part of MA transportation of the past, present, and future.

For details on currently open sections of the trail, check out this guide .

Yankee Candle Village

If you’re like me, you likely have dozens of candles burning around your home at any given time. Many of those incredible scented candles are Yankee Candles, which smell AMAZING. Why not see where they’re made? You can even make some candles yourself at the Yankee Candle Village in Deerfield.

It’s not just candles either; the village has an abundance of family-friendly activities and events throughout the year. There’s lots to see, sample, smell, taste, make, and buy here; it’s one of those very wholesome Massachusetts things to do!

Get lost in a corn maze

One of the quintessential MA fall activities is the corn maze. In Massachusetts, you can find some terrific options, including the enormous and complex Mike’s Maze . A new, themed maze with activities is created each and every year. Go get lost!

See also:  15 Best Pumpkin Patches in Massachusetts

Need more help planning your Massachusetts trip? Check out these guides:

• 11 Can’t-Miss Things to do in Brewster MA
• 11 Fun Things to Do in Great Barrington Massachusetts
• 11 Amazing Things to do in Hadley MA
• 13 Great Things to Do in Marblehead MA
• 8 Mouth-Watering Restaurants in Springfield MA
• 9 Best Things to Do in Pittsfield, Massachusetts
• 12 Things to Do in Wellfleet MA: A Cape Cod Getaway

You might also like:

• 101 Things to Do in New England: The Ultimate New England Bucket List
• 13 Incredible Antique Stores in Massachusetts: Antiquing MA

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55 Interesting Things to Do in Massachusetts | Top Activities & Attractions 

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

Massachusetts was one of the original 13 colonies that founded the United States. Known as the “Bay State,” there are loads of things to do in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts has a rich history, art, music, and a stunning, varied landscape. From some of the most beautiful cities in the US, like Boston, to idyllic beaches and picturesque villages, it has it all. 

55 Interesting Things to do in Massachusetts

Here are the top 55 things to do in Massachusetts. 

1. Cape Cod Beaches 

The Cape Cod National Seashore is a beautiful 64 km (40 miles) stretch of pristine sandy beaches and dunes along the east coast. Along with swimming and other watersports, you can partake in activities like bird-watching and exploring the many lighthouses dotted along the Cape Cod Seashore

The beaches along Cape Cod can often get crowded but you can opt for quieter beaches on the north shore along Route 6-A if that’s a concern. 

2. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary 

The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is one of the world’s best whale-watching sites. It’s also one of the most biologically diverse marine environments and is filled with a wealth of sea life. 

Located in Massachusetts Bay, it was once a fishing ground that has been turned into a protected area. It spans 1355km (842 miles) and is an oceanic plateau in the Atlantic Ocean. 

The Stellwagen Bank Sanctuary is known to have identified 50 different humpback whales, many of which are females who bring their new calves into these protected areas to teach them how to hunt. 

There are also dolphins, seals, and other marine life among the whales. As far as things to do in Massachusetts go, a whale-watching tour here is worth it.

3. The Echo Bridge 

This stunning masonry arch bridge spans the Charles River between the town of Needham right up to Newton Upper Falls and Ellis Street in Newton. The Echo Bridge is worth visiting because it offers stunning views of the surrounding area, incredible architecture, and amazing acoustics.

The bridge is located in the Hemlock Gorge Reservation and was completed in 1877. At the time of its completion, it was America’s second-longest masonry arch. In 1980 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. 

4. Museum of Fine Arts 

The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is one of the most well-known landmarks in the US . It has over 100 galleries, making it the 20th-largest art museum globally. 

It first opened in Copley Square back in 1870. At its time of opening, it only had 5,600 pieces of art. When it moved to Huntington Avenue in 1909, it had around 500 000 works on display. 

It holds over 8,181 paintings and over 450 000 other works of art. The museum is renowned for its vast collection of impressionist art pieces and Persian and Asian fine art pieces. It also holds artworks from ancient Egypt, the Middle East, and Greece. 

One of its most famous exhibits is the American Wing which was opened in 2010 and has a superb collection of decorative arts, folk art, and other pieces dating back to various eras of American history. 

5. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum 

Isabella Stewart Gardner is said to be one of the revolutionary art collectors in Boston. She was born in New York in 1840, and in 1860 she married Jack Gardner before moving to his home city of Boston. 

After losing their son to pneumonia and discovering that she would no longer be able to have any more children, she fell into a deep depression. Hoping to help her recover, her husband took her to Northern Europe and Russia in 1867. This trip inspired her to start collecting art from the various locations she’d visit later, including Egypt, Venice, and more.

In 1899 she started constructing her museum to showcase her collection and personally arranged the items across three floors before opening in 1901. Over the next 20 years, she continued filling the museum with intriguing art pieces and organised concerts, lectures, and exhibitions. In 1919 she suffered from a stroke and eventually passed away in 1924.

Today the museum holds over 2,500 pieces of art, including pieces from Rembrandt and Vermeer. In 1990, two men pretending to be police officers pulled off one of the biggest heists of the century by stealing 13 works of art valued at over $500 million. 

6. The Minute Man National Historical Park 

If you’re a history boffin, you’ll enjoy the Minute Man National Historical Park. It commemorates the opening battle of the American Revolutionary War.  

Established in 1959, the park runs across 392 hectares (970 acres) of land and marks the route that British Troops would have taken at the beginning of the war. The Battle Road Trail spans 8km (5 miles) through the park and follows a portion of the original Battle Road. 

While the trail is mainly known as a significant battlefield, it also offers scenic beauty and serenity. Along the way, you’ll come across the North Bridge in Concord, where colonials fighting for freedom battled with British soldiers. 

To start your visit off, head over to the Battle Green in Lexington, where the first shots of the war were fired in 1775. You’ll also find a statue depicting a “Minuteman,” as in soldiers who had to be prepared for battle at a minute’s notice. 

7. Fenway Park

Whether you love baseball or not, a visit to Fenway Park, the iconic home of the Boston Red Sox, is an absolute must. Fenway Park is often referred to as “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark,” and has welcomed fans to its grounds since 1912. 

It’s the oldest Major League Baseball stadium, and on its 100th anniversary in 2012, it was added to the U.S National Register of Historical Places. Despite mainly being a baseball stadium, it has played host to football matches, boxing bouts, and concerts.

On a tour of Fenway Park , you’ll get to hear about the wonderful history of this stadium and see some of its most notable features like the “Green Monster” field wall and Pesky’s Pole. 

8. Martha’s Vineyard 

Martha’s Vineyard is one of the most idyllic places you can visit in Massachusetts. It’s an island in the Cape Cod area and only accessible by ferry. It is the 57th largest island in the U.S and is a popular hangout for many celebrities.

The island comprises six small towns and has an endless list of activities. It’s famous for its gorgeous beaches, sand bluffs, watersports, and lighthouses. 

While here, be sure to check out Oak Bluffs, one of Martha’s Vineyards’ most intriguing attractions. They are a set of Victorian-style cottages that look like the gingerbread house from Hansel and Gretel.

9. Aquinnah Cliffs 

The stunning Aquinnah Cliffs is one of Martha’s Vineyard’s most visited attractions. While it might be quite the trek to get to, the awe-inspiring views of nearby Elizabeth Islands and the Gay Head Lighthouse waiting for you make it worthwhile. 

Glaciers formed the clay cliffs millions of years ago and hardened over time. The result is an intricate mix of red and orange clay mixed with sand, with the outcome being a wonderful rainbow effect. 

You can explore many of the beach paths to see the cliffs up close and personal along the loose sand of Moshup Beach. Alternatively, you can take one of the upper trails which will take you directly to the cliffs. 

10. New England Aquarium 

Whether you’re visiting Massachusetts with kids or not, the New England Aquarium is worth checking out. It is located right along the Boston Waterfront, offering spectacular city views. 

The aquarium spans 6,967 square meters (75 000 square feet) and boasts over 550 species of marine fauna and more than 20 000 marine animals. It’s the largest aquarium in New England and welcomes around 1.3 million visitors annually. 

It has several exhibitions, but its most famous exhibition is the Giant Ocean Tank which spans over four stories. Other exhibits include the 757 082-litre (200 000 gallon) Caribbean coral reef exhibit that teems with more than 1000 animals.  

11. Bash Bish Falls 

If you’re looking to escape busy city life, Bash Falls is the perfect place. Located in the Bash Bish Falls State Park in southwestern Massachusetts, it’s one of the most beautiful places to see in the U.S.

The Bish Bash Falls is the highest waterfall in Massachusetts and comprises a series of 200 cascades. It falls 24 meters (80 feet) into a shallow creek and pool where most visitors enjoy a refreshing swim after a long hike. It also offers incredible views of the nearby Taconic Mountains State Park.

12. Bridge of Flowers

The Bridge of Flowers is certainly one of the most unique places in Massachusetts. The former trolley bridge is a local attraction connecting Shelburne and Buckland. 

The Shelburne Falls and Colrain Street Railway initially opened the bridge, which closed in 1927. After the company closed, a few community members decided to turn it into a beautiful landmark that everyone could enjoy. 

The bridge crosses the beautiful Deerfield River and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Bridge of Flowers spans a length of 121 meters (400 feet) and a width of 5 meters (18 feet) and is covered with over 500 shrubs and flowers. 

13. Boston Harbour Islands National Recreation Area

The Boston Harbour Islands State Park is made up of 34 small islands located in the Boston Harbour. Each island has a unique history worth learning about. It’s the perfect place for a day trip without traveling too far. 

The islands are just a short ferry ride away and are an ideal getaway location. There are tons to do on the islands, including visiting various tidal pools, picnicking, fishing, and camping. 

One of the main points of interest in the park is the Harborwalk, an interactive walkway that connects visitors to beaches, cafes, hiking trails, and parks where you can sit back and relax. 

14. The Boston Common 

The Boston Common is a public park located in downtown Boston and it’s believed to be the oldest city park in the US. It is a stunning oasis in the middle of the city, created in 1634. 

Throughout the years, the Boston Common has been more than a park as it has acted as a place for many gatherings and protests. The earliest gathering was when the park served as an encampment for British soldiers in 1768. Other notable historical gatherings include anti-slavery meetings, civil rights marches, and anti-Vietnam War rallies. 

Today it’s one of the best places to visit in Boston for free. In summer, locals enjoy splashing about in the Frog Pond Spray Pool, while in winter, the frog pond turns into a massive ice-skating rink. 

15. Plimoth Plantation 

The Plimoth Plantation is a living history museum and provides insights into the lives of 16th and 17th-century pilgrims who settled in Massachusetts. In 1620, separatists from the Church of England landed in the area of Plymouth after failing to reach their destination of Virginia. 

They made Plymouth the first European settlement in New England. The Plimoth Plantation was established in 1947 by Henry Hornblower II, who was very interested in the history of Plymouth and the pilgrims.

Today the plantation showcases the lives of English settlers and the Wampanoag Native American people. The houses are incredibly realistic, complete with tools and other objects that you’d find in the area at that time. 

16. The Mapparium 

If you’re looking for one of the more quirky places to visit in Massachusetts, you must check out The Mapparium. It is the main exhibit at the Mary Baker Eddy Library in Boston. 

In the early 1930s, a portion of the library became the Christian Science Publishing Society headquarters. They commissioned architect Chester Lindsay Churchill to design a building that would compete with The New York Daily News building, famous for its spinning globe. 

The result of his efforts was the magnificent Mapparium, completed in 1935. The globe is completely made out of stained glass with a bisected glass walkway and offers a view of the world map without the . In the early days, it was lit up with thousands of lamps but today is lit up with LED lights. 

If you’d like to see a map of the world from a different perspective, then this is the place to be. The Mapparium provides a way of looking at the earth’s surface in completion and without the distortion that you would usually see on regular globes.

17. The Clark Art Institute 

If you’re an art lover, you’ll enjoy a trip to the Clark Art Institute. It is an art museum and a research institution for higher education and is the only institution in the world of its kind. 

The museum was created by founders Francine and Sterling Clark with collections of their personal art. They have a few exhibitions on show, including the American Decorative Art Galleries and the Manton Collection of British Art.

You’ll find all sorts of art from the Renaissance period to French Impressionists. You’ll also find drawings, sculptures, photographs, oil sketches, and much more on display. 

18. The Museum of Russian Icons

It may come as a surprise that the world’s biggest collection of Russian icons and artifacts outside of Russia is actually in the US. The Museum of Russian Icons is home to over 1,000 Russian pieces that date back to the 15th century. 

The museum opened in 2006 and is the private collection of Gordon B. Lankton, who first travelled to Russia in 1989 and started collecting various Russian icons. Enjoy some Russian snacks, chocolates, and drinks in the tea room between your exploration. 

19. Bodega 

When most people think of a bodega, they think of an ordinary convenience store where you’ll find snacks, non-perishable items, and other household basics. From the outside, Bodega looks like any other convenience store with nothing special to offer. 

However, Bodega is a high-end fashion store that is carefully hidden behind a secret door of a normal corner store. You’ll find an old Snapple machine where you can slide the door and be transported into one of Boston’s coolest shops. Here, you’ll find sneakers and cool streetwear from local and high-end brands. 

20. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Museum 

The MIT Museum, belonging to one of America’s most prestigious universities, is a state-of-the-art center dedicated to all things technology .

Its most popular exhibition is its Nautical Collection which has over 25 000 objects and records of nautical equipment used over various centuries. Some of its other exhibitions include an impressive holography collection. 

Amongst other things, there are also photography, science and architecture exhibitions. You’ll also get to learn about the wonderful history of MIT at this museum. 

21. Boston Museum of Science 

The Boston Museum of Science is one of the most innovative museums in America, with ever-changing exhibitions, IMAX films, planetarium shows, and over 700 interactive exhibits. 

The museum covers various subjects, including science, maths, and technology. Their exhibits range from the newly instituted Project Vaccine, which helps kids and adults learn about the purpose of vaccines.It also has information on the people behind the creation of vaccines, helping to break down any misinformation. 

The Boston Museum of Science also has a massive indoor zoo and butterfly garden. 

22. Singing Beach 

If you’re looking for a scenic place to hang out, check out the Singing Beach on the North Shore. As you walk on the sand you’ll hear it creating squeaky noises that eventually turns into a sort of melody with every step—hence the name. 

Scientists believe that this results from something called shear, when sand grains rub against each other to form different sounds. Even if you don’t enjoy going to the beach, Singing Beach is worth checking out while in Massachusetts. 

23. Historic Deerfield

One area worth visiting is the Historic Deerfield Area, home to the Deerfield town established in the early 1600s. Historic Deerfield is dedicated to preserving the heritage and preservation of Deerfield and the Connecticut River Valley. 

Deerfield has an expansive collection of carefully preserved colonial and federal homes. Along with various homes, you’ll also find museums and programs that give visitors a glimpse of some of New England’s historic villages and countryside. 

The museums, houses, and galleries have a collection of more than 27 000 objects made from the late 1600s to the early 1900s. You’ll find everything from quilts to crafts and cooking utensils.

24. The Freedom Trail

One of the main attractions in Boston is the Freedom Trail, which spans from the Navy Yard in Charlestown right into the Boston Common. It highlights key areas of Boston and Massachusetts’s rich and colorful history. 

The Freedom Trail is a 5km (3 miles) trail containing some of America’s most important historical locations. The trail features 16 monuments and other sites, including museums, ships, and churches. 

25. The Norman Rockwell Museum 

Norman Rockwell is an American painter and illustrator renowned for his characterization of American life. This museum was opened in 1969 and has the world’s largest collection of this famous artist’s pieces. Inside, you’ll find nearly 1,000 original paintings drawn by Norman himself.

Additionally, you’ll get to discover the life story of Norman, his contributions to pop culture, and his impact on social commentary. Some paintings here include the Saturday Evening Post covers and the Four Freedoms . 

26. Faneuil Hall 

Faneuil Hall is one of the most instantly recognisable landmarks in Boston. Built in 1742, it was given to the city as a gift by Peter Faneuil and served as a market hall. It was also used as a venue for public meetings, especially by colonists protesting British rule. 

During the 19th century, it was used for anti-slavery meetings, rallies, and speeches. Today it serves as a multipurpose space, with the top floor housing the Ancient and Honourable Artillery Museum. 

The lower floors of Faneuil Hall remain true to their roots and hosts the Faneuil Marketplace where you’ll find food stalls, pushcarts, shops, and more. 

27. The Peabody Essex Museum 

The Peabody Essex Museum was one of the first museums in America dedicated to collecting cultural and artistic artifacts from around the world. It was opened in 1799 and helped promote art and culture in America. 

This museum is known for many things, including having one of the largest collections of Asian art throughout different periods of history. Featuring 22 buildings, it houses over 1.3 million pieces of art including historical and cultural art from America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania and maritime artefacts.

28. Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum 

Many people are familiar with the events of the Boston Tea Party. It was a huge event in the city that shaped the course of American history in the fight for independence from Britain.

Step back in time and relive the event at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. The museum is a multi-sensory experience complete with replicas of full-scale 18th century ships, interactive displays, historical interpreters, and other artifacts. 

After watching the reenactment, you’ll see the Robinson Tea Chest, the only surviving item from the event. You’ll also get to throw tea overboard into the harbor, just like in 1773. After all this fun, you can enjoy some tea and treats that would have been transported back in the early 1700s at Abigail’s Tea Room. 

29. Boston Children’s Museum 

Boston is filled with a ton of great places to visit, but if you’re looking for a place that is specifically dedicated to children, then head over to the Boston Children’s Museum. 

It was founded in 1913 specifically for the education of children by the Science Teachers Bureau. It is the world’s second-oldest children’s museum and one of the most influential museums in the world. 

Kids and adults will not get bored easily here, as the museum has an engaging line-up of activities that allows kids to learn and explore through curiosity and play. The main themes of the museum focus on science, culture, art, health, fitness, and environmental awareness.

There are over 50 000 items on display, including a replica of a Japanese townhouse from Kyoto. 

30. Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden 

The Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden is a wonderful sculpture garden that honors the life and work of legendary author Theodore Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, in his hometown of Springfield.

The sculpture garden is certainly one of Massachusetts’ more whimsical attractions, and kids and big kids alike will enjoy it. It was created in 1996 by his stepdaughter and sculptor Lark Grey Dimond-Cates.

The garden features bronze statues of some of Dr. Seuss’ famous characters like The Cat in The Hat and The Lorax. 

31. The House of the Seven Gables 

The House of the Seven Gables is a Gothic novel written in 1851 by author Nathaniel Hawthorne. The book is based on an actual house located in Salem Harbour, Massachusetts, which is believed to have been built in 1668. 

The novel explores the themes of romance, guilt, atonement and witchcraft. It follows the journey of one New England family and their ancestral home. The house was later purchased by philanthropist Caroline Emmerton who purchased the mansion in 1908 and fully restored it. 

There are daily tours of the house that delve into the history of it, some history of Salem as well as the life story of Hawthorne. 

32. Old Sturbridge Village 

Stepping back in time again, a visit to the Old Sturbridge Village will transport you to the life of rural New Englanders from the late 1790s to the early 1830s. The Old Sturbridge Village is the biggest outdoor history museum in the northeast. 

There are more than 40 historic houses across 80 hectares (200 acres) of land waiting to be explored. There are also tradeshops, meeting houses, a store, a bank, water-powered mills, a farm and a school that give a glimpse of the lives of early New Englanders.

33. Tanglewood

Tanglewood is Massachusetts’ premier entertainment location. It’s the host venue of many music festivals, hosting up to 350 000 people with each activity. It is located in Lenox, and was once a family-run estate which was gifted to the Boston Symphony Orchestra. 

The Boston Symphony Orchestra is usually the main act here, accompanied by the angelic voices of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus. Throughout the summer, various concerts are held with genres ranging from jazz to classical. 

34. The Witch House of Salem

Salem is a coastal city with a somewhat troubled history. The city is synonymous with the Salem Witch Trials of the late 1690s and the Witch House of Salem. The Witch House of Salem wasn’t always known by this name. 

It used to be the home of Judge Jonathan Corwin, who convicted people accused of witchcraft in Salem and the surrounding communities. Tours of the house provide insight into the life of Judge Corwin, his family and the 20 people who were tried and executed. 

While this might be a bit spooky for some, it is an essential part of Salem’s history and gives visitors a great understanding of America’s colonial history. 

35. Adams National Historical Park 

The Adams National Historical Park in Quincy was the home of two of America’s earliest presidents, John Adams and John Quincy Adams. The park has eleven buildings and tells the story of five generations of the Adams family. 

The park served as a home for various presidents, first ladies, historians, writers and envoys of the Adams family until 1927. One of the most notable buildings is the Stone Library, which was built in 1870 to house the books of President John Quincy Adams, containing 14 000 books in 12 languages. 

36. Brattle Book Shop 

The cute antiquarian Brattle Bookshop sits in downtown Boston near the Boston Common and in-between red brick buildings. It opened in 1825 and has been selling used books, postcards and maps.

It has over 250 000 books of different genres, all spread out across three floors—which you can read from the cool outdoor area.

37. The Harvard Square and Art Museums

While Harvard University itself is quite a standout attraction, its surroundings and museums are slightly more impressive. 

There are a ton of cool and quirky cafés, restaurants, shops and bookstores all around the square. When you’re done hanging out there, you can check out the three Harvard Art Museums. 

The Fogg Art Museum focuses on Italian Renaissance art, while the Busch-Reisinger Museum specializes in European Impressionist Art. The Arthur M. Sackler Museum on the other hand focuses on antiquities from around the world.

38. Harvard Museum of Natural History

If art isn’t something you’re interested in, then check out the Harvard Museum of Natural History. It’s a compilation of three institutions, the Mineralogical and Geological Museum, the Museum of Comparative Zoology and Harvard Herbaria. 

Harvard has over 21 million different specimens in its research programmes and 12 000 of them can be viewed at its Museum of Natural History. These include 3000 types of flowers, and even the skeleton of a dodo bird. 

39. Museum of Modern Renaissance 

The Museum of Modern Renaissance is located in Somerville on an unassuming residential street. Once a masonic lodge, it was turned into what Russian artists Nicholas Shaplyko and Ekaterina Sorokina call a “Temple of Art.”

It was renovated in 2002 and is enchanting, filled with all kinds of art. One theme that you’ll find quite prevalent is something that resident artists refer to as “Mystical Realism.” 

40. Salem’s Historic Houses 

As mentioned before, Salem is a historic city formerly known as the China Port of Salem. It has a varied history, which makes it one of the more interesting places in Massachusetts. 

It is filled with a variety of homes ranging from different periods of New England’s history. It also includes the Salem Maritime Historic Site and Gardner-Pingree House. You’ll see a variety of building styles, and crafts carefully preserved over the centuries. 

41. Hammond Castle Museum 

Once the home of Thomas Edison’s protégé, John Hays Hammond Jr, the Hammond Castle Museum celebrates this resourceful inventor. He is widely credited for being a pioneer of FM radio. 

In total, he has over 437 inventions and more than 800 patents. In 1926 he began building his castle home for his family. The museum today celebrates his life and legacy. Some highlights include a war room, indoor pool, library and Renaissance dining room. 

42. Nantucket Whaling Museum 

The building that now makes up the Nantucket Whaling Museum played an essential role during the whaling era and also served as a candle factory that dates back to the early 1920s. 

It was fully restored in 2005 and now has 11 galleries and exhibits that feature a large number of artefacts and serves as a center of education for whaling endeavors in Nantucket. 

Its main attraction is the enormous skeleton of a sperm whale that spans 14 metres (46 feet) and hangs from the museum’s ceiling. 

43. Lizzie Borden House 

If you’re a fan of horrors, then you’ll enjoy the Lizzie Borden House. Situated in Massachusetts Fall River, it used to be the home of Abby and Andrew Borden, their children, and stepchildren including Lizzie. 

The couple were found dead, believed to have been murdered with a hatchet. The main suspect was Lizzie, but there was never enough to convict her. The house today is a recreation of the crime scene waiting to be solved. 

44. Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery 

Salem is not short of interesting things to do, and Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery is definitely one of them. Inside you’ll find a movie monster museum with more than 50 characters from horror flicks. 

The gallery is the private collection of James Lurgio’s memorabilia and artefacts. You’ll find life-size replicas of horror movie characters made from resin, latex and silicone. 

45. Danvers State Hospital 

Batman fans might recognise the Danvers State Hospital as the Arkham Asylum in the Batman movies. The hospital was originally opened in 1878 for patients suffering from mental health issues.

During the 1930s, it became overcrowded with deteriorating conditions, leading to it having a gothic appearance. It was eventually shut down in 1992 and now hosts visits and tours sharing information about its history. 

46. Mount Greylock 

Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts, standing at 1,064 meters (3491 feet) and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. At the top you’ll also find the Massachusetts War Memorial Tower which honors the soldiers who died in WWI. 

47. Lexington Common National Historic Site 

Also known as the Battle Green, the Lexington Common National Historic Site is a historic landmark. According to George Washington’s diary, this was where the first blood was shed in 1775 in a battle by the Lexington Militia against the British troops. 

The site honours and remembers all those who lost their lives. There are a number of monuments located inside the Lexington Common National Historic Site, and it is a rather scenic area. 

48. James P. Kelleher Rose Garden 

James P. Kelleher Rose Garden is one of the most idyllic and relaxing places you’ll find in Boston. It was created in 1932 and was commissioned by Boston Mayor James Michael Curley. 

The garden boasts over 1,500 roses and has even won an award for excellence from the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. It’s located near the iconic Fenway Park and is a great place to escape from busy city life. 

49. Time Out Market

The Time Out Market is one of Boston’s top food markets and it brings together people from all around the city to enjoy good food. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it here. 

From seafood classics like lobster rolls to pizza, this market has got you covered. You can sit inside the cool industrial indoor space or chill by the outside patio and lawn. 

50. Edgar Allan Poe Square

Edgar Allan Poe was a loved author and poet born in Boston in 1809. He is best known for his short stories, poems, and mystery novels. His original home was sadly demolished as part of an urban development project. 

In 2009, a square was built with his name, and features a statue of him along with signs and symbols of his poetry. There’s also a house in the square that is dedicated to him.

51. Ponyhenge 

Another attraction worth visiting if you’ve got kids is Ponyhenge in Lincoln. It is a hidden gem located a few minutes away from Boston. It’s a piece of land open to the public filled with toy horses. 

No one knows how they got there exactly, but family and children are delighted nonetheless. Located along the picturesque Old Sudbury Road, they’re a collection of rocking horses, hobby horses and other horse figurines. 

52. Cape Cod Rail Trail 

For a scenic view of the Cape Cod area, follow the Cape Cod Rail Trail. This 35km (22 mile) path was once a booming railway. Today it’s a popular hiking trail from Wellfleet to Dennis which also welcomes joggers, cyclers, and the like 

No matter which way you decide to travel up the trail, you’ll be surrounded by great views, and lots of beach stops. 

53. The Museum of African American History 

Located on the North Side of Beacon Hill, the Museum of African American History is a must visit to get a glimpse of how African Americans lived in the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum also highlights how African Americans helped shape the city into what it is today. 

From there you can take a self-guided walk or guided tour of the Black Heritage Trail where you’ll discover key highlights of the area like the first black church and public schools in Boston. 

54. Institute of Contemporary Art 

Opened in 2006 the ICA gives visitors a glimpse of the future of creativity. This cutting-edge state-of-the-art building is home to a series of thought-provoking exhibitions and galleries. 

Located near the Boston Harbour, the institute has exhibited the works of visionary artists like Virgil Abloh. Because the exhibits are temporary, there’s always something to look forward to. 

55. Copley Square 

Named after painter John Singleton Copley, Copley Square is a public square located in Boston’s Back Bay area. Before 1883 it was known as the Art Square as it is home to many cultural institutions. 

It has several interesting buildings like the Beaux-Arts Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel.

Final Thoughts on Top Activities and Attractions in Massachusetts 

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Massachusetts. There is something for everyone, from haunted houses in Salem to idyllic beaches and the iconic Fenway Park. The next time you’re in the Bay State why not add some of these attractions and activities to your bucket list?

I covered all of the costs involved in writing this post on things to do in Massachusetts. However, this article may contain affiliate links. This means if you click through on some of the links and end up making a purchase I may receive a small commission.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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The 17 Best Things to Do in Boston

Built on almost 400 years of history, Boston's character is as layered and distinct as a Kennedy accent. The city has reinvented itself countless times over, serving at different times and to different communities as the birthplace of the American Revolution, as an international academic capital, and as a biotech hub. Boston’s wharves whisper of tea parties, its libraries of literary greats, and its ballpark of curses broken. Each year, its famed universities keep this old city young with an ebb and flow of some 150,000 students from around the world—and these smarties keep the city lively round the clock.

All that, plus some of the finest  food and  drink make Boston one of America’s greatest and most enduring cities. Across its patchwork of squares, corners, and crossings, here are the best things to do in  Boston —including the occasional jaunt across the Charles River to neighboring  Cambridge —whether you're in town for Marathon Monday (better known as Patriot's Day around here), making a summer stop on your way to the Cape and islands , or on a fall foliage journey .

Read our complete Boston travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Arrow

This is one of  our favorite museums in Boston —and the country. At once intimate and unparalleled in its grandeur, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum draws on the vast art collection of its eponymous (and eccentric) founder, who had a thirst for travel, a bohemian lifestyle, and the fine luxuries of ancient cultures. Set within a Venetian-style palazzo, surrounding an elegant courtyard, masterpieces by the likes of Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, and John Singer Sargent share space with impressive architectural elements. Stewart Gardner herself delicately arranged the collection of more than 7,500 fine and decorative art objects, 2,700 books and manuscripts, and over 8,000 historic objects from around the world, including sculptures, furniture, textiles, metalworks, and ceramics, that she collected during her lifetime. A Renzo Piano–designed wing opened in 2012, and provides interdisciplinary, multipurpose space for contemporary artists, musicians and scholars.

New England Aquarium Arrow

It all starts with the penguins—when you first enter, you're greeted by African Penguin and Rockhopper colonies that are by any measure an absolute delight to watch. Just past, the main attraction is the 40-foot wide, floor-to-ceiling, 200,000 gallon salt water Ocean Tank, home to about 1000 marine animals, including turtles, eels, and tropical fish. A cylindrical walkway makes it possible for guests to experience the tank from every depth and angle, and a number of smaller satellite rooms contain informational displays and touch tanks that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This is a popular field trip spot, so you're likely to be surrounded by schools of rambunctious kids on any given day, especially from the lunch hour onwards. The museum implemented timed ticketing during the pandemic and is likely to keep it moving forward, which acts as a good form of crowd control, but the quietest times to visit are still weekdays first thing in the morning.

High Street Place Arrow

Food halls are complicated. Make them too pedestrian and they quickly fall into the “food court” category, recalling the sad shopping mall eateries of our youth. But throw in a James Beard finalist, and an eclectic mix of some of Boston’s most discerning foodie favorites from across the city, and you’ve got a worthwhile detour for locals and visitors alike. Highlights include: bagels and pastrami from Brookline favorite Mamaleh’s; artisanal doughnuts from Blackbird; and Bubble Bath, a Champagne bar complete with Moët & Chandon vending machine. There’s tons of seating, a sleek LED entertainment system playing multiple sports games at once, and an airy, atrium-type feel that never feels overly crowded or cramped. There are a number of excellent food halls serving downtown Boston’s office-dwelling population, but this one feels less like a corporate convenience stop and more like a proper microcosm of the city’s food scene.

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Bostonians may breeze through the Public Garden to get from one side of town to the other, but there's plenty to linger over in this city-center oasis. The lagoon, which wanders almost the entire length of the garden, is where the famed Swan Boats have been peddled for over a century; and the flowers are beyond vivid. The Commonwealth Avenue entrance serves as the park’s most enchanting introduction, where a statue of George Washington comes flanked by flowers at the gate. In this pleasurable moment, remember that Victorian Bostonians found this park to be offensively bright. My, how times have changed.

Boston Public Library Arrow

There’s a lot to love about the Boston Public Library: It’s the oldest municipally-funded lending library in the country, its McKim Building is considered the masterwork of iconic Gilded Age architect Charles Follen McKim, and an ongoing calendar of free events all year-round means there is quite literally always a tour to go on, lecture to attend, or exhibit to peruse. Architecture nuts should reserve a spot on one of the thrice-weekly Art & Architecture Tours, which unlocks some of the premises’ lesser-known gems, including tile arches by famed Spanish builder Rafael Guastavino, and the first mural commission from John Singer Sargeant. The museum is home to all sorts of treasures beyond just books–including the lesser-known but entirely worthwhile Norman B. Leventhal Map Center, which houses over 250,000 geographic objects.

Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University Arrow

A gorgeous 281-acre green space within Boston, Arnold Arboretum of  Harvard University is the oldest public arboretum in North America (c. 1872) and the highlight of Frederick Law Olmsted's famed  Emerald Necklace series of green space in the city. Prolific biking and walking trails zigzag past more than 16,000 accessioned plants, many meticulously marked with signs. The natural splendor is a feast for the eyes, which are able to spot the sheer diversity of trees and plants at every turn. QR-coded signs and the arboretum’s easy-to-use  Expeditions app make it possible to dig deep into the environment.

The Freedom Trail Arrow

The Freedom Trail starts at the  Boston Common , the oldest public park in the United States, following a red brick path lined with 16 historic landmarks, which paint a picture of Boston’s revolutionary history. Although tourists flock to the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, this pedestrian path also coincides with day-to-day rush of downtown Boston. You’ll see revolutionary sites in a modern setting and walk alongside commuters and after-school kids. If you’re short on time, prioritize the North End section of the trail, home to landmarks like the  Paul Revere House , Old North Church, and Copp’s Hill Burial Ground, in a historic neighborhood that’s known as Boston’s Little Italy. If you want to go deeper, find all the hidden Freedom Trail spots locals love to visit here.

Charles Street Arrow

Beacon Hill, one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, is home to some of the finest examples of Federal-style brick row houses in the country, and Charles Street is the perfect launching point from which to explore it all. Tiny sidewalks, gaslit corners, and Instagrammable charm await on this busy thoroughfare, which starts by the Massachusetts General Hospital campus and concludes on the Boston Common. Charles Street has an independent bent that locals love to support. Come here for contemporary accessories at December Thieves, mouthwatering truffles at Beacon Hill Chocolates, custom stationery at Gus + Ruby Letterpress, and “this might have belonged to a Kennedy” antiques at Upstairs Downstairs Home. And if you’re a book lover (or bookstore lover), don’t leave town without visiting Beacon Hill Books & Cafe , a stunning townhome-turned-bookshop that’s restoring this city’s faith in the importance of independent booksellers.

Lookout Rooftop Arrow

With a deserved reputation as Boston's premiere rooftop bar, Lookout often reaches capacity with the city's work-hard, play-hard young professional crowd (Reservations are required these days; no walk-ins). For most, Lookout isn't a novelty—it's a mainstay—though you may find the occasional bridge-and-tunnel-type folks later on weekends. The crowd definitely likes a solid cocktail but they're here for the views and highly social atmosphere. In a city that skews historic and can feel sometimes like a  college town, The Lookout Rooftop provides big-city appeal with a cool crowd, awesome skyline views, and strong drinks. It's a place to hang out with friends and just have some boozy fun.

Fenway Park Arrow

What’s Boston without Fenway Park? America’s “Most Beloved Ballpark” isn’t just a stadium–it’s a piece of living history. It’s the home of the Red Sox, who play there each year from late March through October, but it’s also known for its popular summer concert series, and its fascinating behind-the-scenes tours offered in the off-season. Sure, there are parts of Fenway’s history that aren’t exactly worth celebrating–the Red Sox remained segregated longer than any other MLB team, and it wasn’t until Lady Gaga’s Joanne World Tour came in 2017 that a woman headlined a concert there–but at the end of the day, it’s one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Boston. When you’re in the cheap seats, having paid way too much for a beer and a hot dog and the crowd starts singing “Sweet Caroline,” it’s clear there’s a sense of history here that even non-sports lovers can get excited about.

Charles River Esplanade Arrow

If you’re exploring Boston for the day, take a walk up through Back Bay from Massachusetts Avenue and loop back down along the Esplanade or head over the Harvard Bridge to Cambridge (Ironically, the Harvard Bridge ends at M.I.T.). It's a narrow paradise along both sides of the Charles River, stretching for several miles between the Longfellow Bridge to the west and the Boston University bridge to the east. More than 1,500 trees line the walkway (or runway, if it's marathon-training season), while playgrounds, ponds, and gardens bring a lyrical quality to this meandering landscape. It's best viewed in autumn, when the Esplanade shows its true colors. The Hatch Shell is a performance space that serves as home base for all things at the Esplanade including the famous performance by the  Boston Pops on the Fourth of July.

South End Arrow

This neighborhood has the kind of charm that'll make you move to Boston. There are so many historic plaques that show off the neighborhood's rich past and an abundance of hidden art galleries and boutiques that will keep you searching for more. Design aficionados should definitely come here on Sundays, when you can visit SoWa Open Market (short for South of Washington Street) for food trucks and entertainment as well as SoWa Vintage Market and the SoWa Farmer's Market, and a number of one-of-a-kind boutiques and design showrooms. Plus, a foodie's trip to Boston isn't complete without a stop here casual bistros and oyster-slinging wine bars: Don't miss Black Lamb , an elevated American brasserie that impresses with a sensational raw options and sublime lobster rolls. Late night, stop by Beehive or Wally's Cafe for lively local jazz sets in casual bar settings. And for one of Boston's best dive bars (and best burgers) where everybody knows your name, hit cozy wood-paneled DeLux Cafe on cobblestoned Chandler Street.

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Arrow

The MFA’s vast collection of art and artifacts is exceptional by any standard. The museum houses one of the best collections of Korean art outside the Korean peninsula, the only permanent exhibition space for ancient coins in the United States, one of the world’s largest holdings of ancient Egyptian treasures, and a comprehensive collection of work by John Singer Sargent. The museum’s claims to fame are so varied, in fact, you could spend weeks documenting its exceptionality. Whatever you take in during your visit, don’t miss the Claude Monet gallery in the European Wing, with one of the greatest caches of the Impressionist’s work outside of France, or the impressive Arts of Islamic Cultures Gallery, whose 2019 reinstallation was developed in collaboration with local Muslim groups. All said and done, the MFA is the crown jewel of  Boston's art scene .

Seaport District Arrow

Boston Seaport is one of the city's most talked-about neighborhoods—and for good reason. The former no-man's land, just over the bridge from Downtown, has quickly evolved into a center of innovation, mixed-use development, and modern culture, attracting prominent companies like Amazon, big names in biotech, and major developers competing to erect Boston’s priciest, sky-scraping condos. A young, ambitious work force has followed, as have some great businesses—including the  Institute of Contemporary Art ,  Legal Harborside 's rooftop bar, Wood Hills Pier 4 for farm-to-table cuisine, darts bar Flight Club, the Lookout Rooftop, and Mediterranean hotspot  Committee.

The Barking Crab Arrow

The last vestige of the old Seaport—a once rough-around-the edges neighborhood that’s now filled with glass skyscrapers, corporate types, and Lululemon stores—this indoor-outdoor seafood institution fills with diners and happy hour revelers of all stripes, from construction workers to management consultants. The waterfront destination feels like a coastal summer clam shack with its tented roof and picnic tables, and, indeed, it got its start as a seasonal restaurant back in 1994. Now, it includes a more permanent wing with an old time-y tavern feel, but the seaside, atmosphere persists throughout. That vibe pairs perfectly with the menu of seafood platters; raw bar favorites; fried scallops, shrimp, and clams; fish sandwiches; entrees; and lobster in all forms, including boiled, grilled, roasted, and rolled.

Brattle Book Shop Arrow

In the heart of Boston’s downtown, carts and shelves of $1, $3, and $5 books fill an alley off of West Street. The seller: Brattle Bookshop, a store that encompasses three floors of used books, the top one filled with rare collectibles. Its purveyor, Ken Gloss, is a regular appraiser on the PBS’ Antiques Roadshow and has gained modest fame among antiquers and public-television addicts.  Independent bookshops attract an eclectic mix of characters, and that’s as much a part of the experience as the books themselves. Curmudgeonly regulars, bespectacled students, and travelers who value a good read all make Brattle Bookshop an institution. Even the famously reclusive J.D. Salinger stopped here once.

Harvard Square Arrow

Take an afternoon and evening to sink into this corner of Cambridge, and you’ll have discovered a city unto itself. You certainly don’t have to be a student to savor this neighborhood. There are  art and  natural history museums on Harvard’s campus, quirky boutiques for souvenirs like Black Ink, Grolier Poetry Book Shop (the oldest in the country, c. 1927), and local-loved, world-class restaurants like  Alden & Harlow . Tourists turn out in droves to walk the famous Harvard Yard, and despite the crowds it's worth taking a genuine wander.

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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

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Massachusetts (MA) » 25 Best Things to Do in Massachusetts

25 Best Things to Do in Massachusetts

As one of the original 13 colonies, it is not hard to figure out why the state of Massachusetts has so much history to offer visitors. Important battles and political rallies have taken place in the state during its history and evidence of these remains today in National Historic Parks and monuments.

The state is not stuck in the past however and Boston is a pioneering city with trendy and modern shopping, gastronomy and art on offer. The great outdoors is also a reason to visit the state with varied terrain of beaches, farmland and forests to explore. Here are the best things to do in Massachusetts :

1. The Freedom Trail

This winding three-mile trail in Boston is home to some of the most important historical sights in the United States.

Traversing the old colonial streets, the trail takes in 16 iconic monuments along the way including graveyards and the well-known Faneuil Hall, also known as “The Cradle of Liberty”, which was where abolitionists and revolutionaries gathered in the past.

The trail is easy to stick and is marked by red bricks and large medallions in the ground leading all the way from Boston Common to the Navy Yard in Charlestown.

2. Cape Cod

Massachusetts meets the Atlantic at Cape Cod and offers around 500 miles of beautiful white sandy beaches.

The beaches can get busy in the summer months but there are always quieter spots available for those willing to explore a little.

The Cape Cod coast is protected by the Cape Cod National Seashore, which ensures that the coast here has remained largely unchanged since the early 19th Century.

The Visitors Centres nearby in Provincetown or Salt Pond offer all the information needed for a happy visit.

3. Minute Man National Historic Park

The Minute Man National Historic Park marks the route marched by British and in turn initiated the American Revolution.

Other points of interest in the park are Concord’s North Bridge which was the site for battle between the Colonies and British and the Visitor Centre which is essentially a museum showing various objects and artifacts from the areas abundant history.

4. Battle Green

Battle Green in Lexington, also known as Lexington Green, is believed to be where the first shots of the American Revolution were fired in 1775.

Re-enactments of the belt are held here once a year on the anniversary of the event.

Also found here is a Minuteman statue which immortalizes the words of Captain Parker before the battle “if they mean to have war, let it begin here”.

5. Historic Houses of Salem

There are many historic homes in Massachusetts and the New England area but Salem offers a variety of homes and insight into history and culture, which is hard to match.

The name Salem is widely associated with witch trails and the house belonging to Jonathan Corwin, Judge at the witchcraft trails, can be found here.

The area was also once a thriving China trade port and the Peabody Essex Museum provides an in depth look at this trade as well as housing an impressive 18th Century Chinese building from Huizhou.

6. Plimoth Plantation

Plimoth Plantation is a living museum that aims to explore the lives of the Colonial Americans and there daily lives in what was the first New England settlement by Pilgrims in 1620.

The actors in the museum are costumed accordingly and never step out of character whilst undergoing a series of 17th Century tasks including building, gardening and military exercises.

The museum also explores the lives of Native Americans in the area at the time through the Hobbamock Homesite exhibit.

7. Faneuil Hall

Although briefly mentioned as being part of the Freedom Trail, the Faneuil Hall is a must visit spot and deserves its own place on this list.

The hall was built in 1740 and was home to a market and was used as a meeting point.

Over the years it has been the site of a number of revolutionary speeches including protests over taxes in the colonies and anti-slavery meetings.

On the top floor of the building the Ancient and Honourable Artillery Museum which explores military history via weapons, armor and other exhibits.

The building also still serves its original purpose with a lively market on its ground floor, which is well worth exploring.

8. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Park

The Stellwagen Bank is ranked as one of the best whale-watching spots in the whole world.

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

Around 50 recognized humpbacks return each summer routinely and, as well as whales, there is also a chance to spot other marine animals including dolphins and seals.

There are plenty of whale spotting tours available in the area departing from Gloucester or Provincetown.

9. Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge is another chance to witness what life was like in the past centuries in New England.

The Old Sturbridge Village covers the early 19th Century and includes homes, mills, farms and shops from the time period.

As with Pilmoth, the costumed actors and actresses at the museum are convincing and entertaining as they undergo routine life from the 1800s.

10. Tanglewood

Tanglewood is a must visit destination for music lovers, especially in the summer months.

Found in Lenox, Tanglewood’s various venues attract a wide variety of musicians in the summer months and range from symphony orchestras to soloist performances and from world-class musicians to student groups.

Tanglewood is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year.

11. Martha’s Vineyard

If you need some rest and relaxation whilst in Massachusetts, Martha’s Vineyard is the place to visit.

Simply board a ferry from New Bedford and explore the six towns and beautiful beaches of The Vineyard.

There are a number of farms on the island which are happy to sell their fresh produce to tourists and many outdoor activities can be undertaken on here including sailing and kayaking.

12. Norman Rockwell Museum

The Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge pays tribute to one of the most well-known and loved artists from the United States.

The museum houses the largest collection of Rockwell’s work in the world and is a great chance to see art focusing on life in the United States and the issues facing ordinary people such as poverty and civil rights.

If the museum leaves you craving more knowledge of American art, the Berkshire area has also attracted a number of other artists over the years and some of their homes and studios can be explored in the area.

13. Historic Deerfield

The remarkably preserved homes of Deerfield tell the story of its history in the Federal and Colonial periods.

There are 14 historic homes here and several galleries and museums housing over 27,000 artifacts from the area, some dating as far back as the early 17th Century.

The Helen Geier Textile Gallery is a great place to see what early settlers wore and has an impressive collection.

There are also demonstrations of crafts and cookery in the area throughout the year.

14. Boston Common

Boston Common is the oldest park in the United States and marks the beginning of the aforementioned Freedom Trail.

It can be found at the epicenter of the city of Boston. The park is home to green spaces as well as a historical burying ground and various other monuments.

Ice-skating is available here in the winter months but spring is a particularly beautiful time to do nothing but enjoy the park itself.

The public garden that connects with the park is the oldest botanical garden in the States.

15. Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is a stunning little neighborhood in Boston located very close to the city center.

Throughout the past, the neighborhood has been home to the powerful families in Boston.

The houses found in Beacon Hill are a mix of architectural styles ranging from Greek revival to Federal American.

The Nichols museum here shows how the residents of this area lived with its collections of furnishings and art pieces from the era.

16. Harvard

Harvard University in Cambridge has an impressive reputation around the world for its academic research and study facilities.

It is the oldest University in America and can be toured for free while guided by a current student of the university.

There is also an insightful guide on the website which can be downloaded and used for self guided tours of the campus.

The Harvard Square is a great place to experience student life with its many shops, ice cream vendors and bookshops.

Also on the Harvard campus are a number of top class museums.

17. Copley Square

Copley Square, in Back Bay, is home to the striking Trinity Church: a building designed in a Romanesque architectural style by Henry Richardson.

The church is undeniably impressive from the outside but the many murals and other decorative features inside the building make it well worth admiring its interior.

Also in Copley Square is Boston Public Library, which has been around since 1848. As with the Trinity Church, the interior and exterior of the Boston Public Library are both equally worth seeing.

18. Fenway Park

Fenway Park is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic sports grounds in the United States. It is home to the Boston Red Sox and was built in 1912.

Fenway Park still retains much of its charm from its early days with the old-fashioned scoreboard and (relatively) small stadium capacity, which makes tickets very hard to come by.

A tour of the stadium is highly recommended even for none sports fans.

19. Boston Museum of Fine Arts

The Boston Museum of Fine Arts has a reputation of being one of the top fine art museums in the United States.

It has a vast and impressive collection ranging from ancient Egyptian pieces to Impressionist works.

The new American Wing houses a huge collection of art from the United States and includes everything from paintings to furniture.

20. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Whilst we are on the subject of impressive art collections, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum certainly deserves a mention.

Within the walls of this unusual building styled on a Venetian Palace, is a collection of over 2500 pieces of art taking the form of paintings, decorative objects, sculptures and even books.

The collection was selected Mrs Gardner herself, who was known for being slightly eccentric but also an expert in the field of art.

21. Boston Harbor

Boston Harbor has had a long history and can trace its roots back to the Colonial period when it was used as a shipping port.

During the 20th Century, a large amount of renovation took place at the harbor and the area is well worth a visit when in Massachusetts.

The interactive walkway HarborWalk takes in and connects the many parks, beaches and cafes along the waterfront.

The most notable section of the walk stretches from South Boston to Charlestown and includes Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park.

22. New England Aquarium

Another attraction on the Boston waterfront is the popular New England Aquarium.

The Aquarium is home to over 20,000 marine animals from 550 different species.

The impressive Caribbean reef hosts sharks and turtles while smaller creatures such as small crabs can be touched in the “Edge of the Sea” tank.

Whale watching tours are also available from the aquarium and there is an on site Imax theatre showing short films on the natural world.

23. Boston Museum of Science

As with many great science museums, the Museum of Science in Boston is hands on in its approach to teaching about science.

The museum explores all areas of science and has over 700 permanent exhibitions.

Notable features in the museum are the Dakota fossil, which is around 65 million years old, the butterfly garden and the planetarium with its fascinating daily shows.

Despite its hands on approach, the museum is not just for kids and is a great day out for all ages.

24. John F Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

This museum in Boston is the official memorial of John F Kennedy and was opened in 1979.

There are a large number of photos, exhibits and artifacts from JFK’s life here as well as three theaters.

The museum covers both JFK’s personal family life and his political campaigns.

25. Boston Children’s Museum

Three floors of entertaining exhibits can be found at the Boston Children’s Museum, which is aimed at kids up to the age of ten.

The fun exhibits on offer include exploring a traditional Japanese home and a room solely dedicated to different ways of making bubbles.

25 Best Things to Do in Massachusetts:

• The Freedom Trail
• Minute Man National Historic Park
• Battle Green
• Historic Houses of Salem
• Plimoth Plantation
• Faneuil Hall
• Stellwagen Bank National Marine Park
• Old Sturbridge Village
• Martha’s Vineyard
• Norman Rockwell Museum
• Historic Deerfield
• Boston Common
• Beacon Hill
• Copley Square
• Fenway Park
• Boston Museum of Fine Arts
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
• Boston Harbor
• New England Aquarium
• Boston Museum of Science
• John F Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
• Boston Children’s Museum

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cape Cod & the Islands

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Southeast of Boston, the Cape Cod peninsula reaches out into the Atlantic, curving northward to form Cape Cod Bay. With its beautiful sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere, Cape Cod is a popular summer vacation destination for nearby Boston and New York .

The Cape's beaches are the main attraction for many, but Cape Cod promises a lot more. Whale watching, bicycling, fishing, dune buggy rides, and bird-watching are all popular things to do, while beautiful gardens, historic homes, and fascinating museums offer more places to visit.

Come to Cape Cod for a getaway in the sun and join the photographers and artists in capturing its lighthouses, windmills, sea captains' homes, dunes, surf, and weathered shingle cottages. Hop on a ferry for sightseeing on the idyllic islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard .

Although beaches and tourist attractions may be crowded in July and August, you'll find peaceful corners, especially on the north shore and the long beaches of Cape Cod Bay. At any season, you'll find plenty of places to go and things to see.

Plan your family's vacation with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Cape Cod and the islands.

Explore the Cape Cod National Seashore

Ride the ferry to nantucket, provincetown, relax on martha's vineyard, whale watching and cruises, walk to the lighthouse at race point beach, spend time in sandwich, visit chatham and the marconi maritime center, ride the cape cod rail trail, meet pirates in yarmouth, see the sun rise and set from orleans, where to stay on cape cod for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to cape cod & the islands, map of tourist attractions & things to do in cape cod & the islands.

Almost the whole East coast of Cape Cod, a stretch of about 40 miles, is protected as Cape Cod National Seashore , a wild area that has remained almost unchanged since Henry David Thoreau walked its sands. Its marvelous beaches, beautiful woodlands of Atlantic white cedar and other conifers, bird nesting grounds, and miles of attractive hiking trails draw thousands of visitors year-round, but especially in the summer.

One of the most unusual environments in the park is the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp in Wellfleet, which you can explore via a boardwalk. Information about the area can be obtained at the Salt Pond and Provincetown visitor centers, where you can also sign up for one of the park ranger programs; these include hiking, canoeing, snorkeling, and visiting the park's historic buildings.

For an up-close look at the massive dunes in the park and a glimpse into their history and nature, Art's Dune Tours from Provincetown are a highlight of any trip to the Cape.

Address: 99 Marconi Station Site Road, Wellfleet, Massachusetts

Founded by colonists in 1659, the town of Nantucket is the main settlement of Nantucket, a 15-mile-long island 30 miles south of Cape Cod. Quaker missionaries settled here in the 18th century, and from 1740 to 1830, Nantucket was the center of the world's whaling industry, with more than 125 whaling ships.

Today, the island has a well-established and well-heeled summer population and is popular with tourists for its beaches and miles of cycling paths, as well as its sea captains' mansions and other historic attractions. In April, the roadsides are bright with daffodils, which local residents have been planting for several decades, and celebrate with a colorful festival.

Don't bother to bring a car here; hotels will meet the ferry, and you can rent a bicycle or walk to Nantucket's main attractions . Among these are sites relating to America's first female professional astronomer, Maria Mitchell , including her home, an observatory, and an aquarium of local marine life.

The Nantucket Life Saving Museum houses a collection of marine artifacts, and the Hinchman House Natural History Museum concentrates on Nantucket's flora and fauna with bird, wildflower, and marine ecology walks. The historic district is lined with shops and boutiques, many of them selling high-end women's clothing.

Nantucket Whaling Museum

The Nantucket Whaling Museum features ship models, scrimshaw, whaling equipment, portraits, logbooks, and the skeleton of a 43-foot sperm whale, all housed in a restored 1847 candle factory with a rooftop observation deck.

Nantucket Historical Association

Along with offering guided walking tours from late May through October, the Nantucket Historical Association maintains a number of attractions that are open to visitors, including a 19th-century firehouse; the 1845 Hadwen House ; the 1745 Macy Christian House ; the Old Gaol from 1806; the oldest working windmill in the country; and the 1686 saltbox, Jethro Coffin House , the island's oldest residence and only surviving structure from the original English settlement.

At the very tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is known for its thriving art and music scene. With plenty of beaches, miles of walking and cycling paths, kayaking, and boat excursions, Provincetown is a lively and popular resort.

In 1620, the Pilgrims landed here on the Mayflower, before moving on to found Plymouth, an event commemorated by the 252-foot Pilgrim Monument — the tallest all-granite structure in the US, completed in 1910. You climb to the top for spectacular views. A museum at its base explores the town's rich history with informative displays, ship models, whaling equipment, arrowheads, and tools of the local Wampanoag people, and maritime artifacts.

To see the works of artists who have lived and worked in the area, visit the Provincetown Art Association and Museum , first established to support the many artists who were refugees from Europe after World War I. The arts are still an important part of Provincetown life, as you can tell from the number of galleries that line the busy shopping area along Commercial Street.

Commercial Street is the place to go shopping in Provincetown, known as a shoppers' paradise. Along with the art and crafts galleries, you'll find designer and vintage clothing, maritime antiques, folk art, Fair Trade imports, beachwear, home décor, seashells, fudge, fashionable menswear, cosmetics, and Cape Cod souvenirs of every sort. You'll quickly understand why shopping is the favorite thing to do in P'town .

The island of Martha's Vineyard lies only five miles south of Cape Cod, and you can get here by car and passenger ferries from Woods Hole on Cape Cod or from New Bedford. A bit more laid-back than Nantucket, "The Vineyard" has six small towns, each with its own distinct character and miles of beaches, some of which lie beneath high bluffs.

More varied and rolling in its landscapes than either Nantucket or Cape Cod, the island has a relaxed, casual air despite its high-end antiques and art galleries and its trendy boutiques.

Originally a Methodist church camp meeting place, Oak Bluffs is an unabashed beach holiday town, but still retains the rows of cute "gingerbread" cottages built by the 19th-century campers to replace the former tents.

This is one of the rare places where you can see such a collection of Carpenter Gothic-style buildings , and their candy colors seem a good fit for the ice-cream parlors and saltwater taffy shops. Be sure to stop for a ride on the Flying Horses Carousel , one of the country's oldest. You can visit one of the cottages, which is furnished from the late 1800s.

An important whaling center, this is the site of the oldest European settlement on Martha's Vineyard. It is now a pretty town of tree-shaded streets lined by white clapboard homes, among them Vincent House , the oldest and now a museum. Vincent House was built in 1672 and has been restored and furnished in period style to offer a glimpse of life in Martha's Vineyard over the past 400 years.

Read More: From Boston to Martha's Vineyard: Best Ways to Get There

It would be a shame to leave Cape Cod without taking a boat trip to spot whales and other sea life — or just to get a view from the sea. Various boat tours depart from different harbors. Boats leave frequently from the MacMillan Wharf in Provincetown for whale watching excursions to the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary , from mid-April through October.

Trained naturalists are on board to help passengers observe finback, humpback, and minke whales on tours lasting two-and-a-half to four hours. Similar whale watching cruises leave from Hyannis and Barnstable harbors.

Cruises from Chatham can take you to watch seals in their natural habitat, as well as get a sea view of Chatham's famed beaches and picturesque harbor. From Harwich Port , you can board a high-speed catamaran for a narrated seal cruise around the island of Monomoy.

Narrated tours from Orleans are family oriented with stories of Pilgrims, pirates, and shipwrecks. In Woods Hole , you can learn about oceanographic science on a cruise aboard a research vessel . As boat excursions vary, be sure to ask what the theme of each trip is before signing up.

One of the most beloved tourist attractions on Cape Cod is Race Point Beach, with its iconic lighthouse surrounded by dunes and seagrass. Race Point Lighthouse , a stone structure 25 feet tall, was first lighted in 1816, with one of the earliest revolving lights. In 1876, the original stone tower was replaced with a 45-foot cast-iron lighthouse that's now on the National Register of Historic Places.

Still an active navigation aid, the lighthouse is sometimes open for tours in the summer, and it is possible to book overnight stays in the keeper's cottage. You can also visit the adjacent Old Harbor Life-Saving Station.

Race Point Beach is a wide sand beach at the mouth of Cape Cod Bay on the northernmost point of Cape Cod. The beach gets full sun all day due to its northern exposure, and although it faces the open sea, there are shallow areas that are good for children, without heavy surf. The beach has changing facilities and a paid parking area, or you can park free at the Province Lands Visitor Center and bike or walk half a mile to the beach.

The lighthouse stands at the far end of Race Point, a walk of about 45 minutes along the path through the spectacular dunes.

Address: Race Point Road, Provincetown, Massachusetts

Sandwich is an attractive little town at the west end of Cape Cod and was a major glass-making center in the 19th century. Sandwich glass is still highly prized by collectors, but don't expect to find much of it for sale in the town's many antique shops. The long beaches of Sandwich on Cape Cod Bay are often less crowded than others, but equally beautiful.

You can watch as Dexter Grist Mill, built between 1640 and 1646, grinds corn flour using authentic grindstones powered by a water wheel, and you can buy the cornmeal with authentic recipes. Glimpse into the past at the 1678 Benjamin Nye Homestead, furnished in period style with hand-woven sheets, spinning wheels, and cooking utensils, all well interpreted by volunteers.

Sandwich Glass Museum

Of particular interest to collectors and those interested in the history and techniques of glassmaking, this museum features more than 5,000 pieces of glassware produced here in the 19th century, as well as a furnace for glass-blowing demonstrations, a multi-media theater, and a gallery of contemporary glassworks. The museum shop sells fine glassware and reproductions of Sandwich glass.

Heritage Museums & Gardens

Allow at least two hours to tour the Heritage Museums & Gardens , a complex of Americana museums set in a 100-acre garden. The automobile museum, inside a reproduction Shaker Round Stone Barn, contains about 35 antique cars, including a 1930 Duesenberg Tourister, once owned by movie star Gary Cooper, and an original 1913 Ford Model T.

An art museum with American folk art; collections of antique weapons; miniature soldiers; Native American artifacts; and gardens filled with shrubs, trees, and flowers could easily fill an afternoon. An original carousel sits inside an enclosed pavilion, so you can enjoy riding it even on a rainy day.

The gardens are especially known for the rhododendron and hydrangeas. Children delight in Hidden Hollow, an outdoor learning and discovery center, where they can climb, balance, splash, build, dig, and experiment.

Green Briar Nature Center

In East Sandwich, Green Briar Nature Center & Jam Kitchen honors local author Thornton Burgess, whose stories of Peter Rabbit and his friends have charmed generations of children. The famous briar patch that features often in Peter Rabbit's adventures is preserved in the Green Briar Conservation Area, a 60-acre reserve of wildflower gardens and walking trails through the forest. The Jam Kitchen, a living museum at the Nature Center, has made fruit jams the old-fashioned way since 1903.

One of Cape Cod's most appealing beach towns, Chatham has a gracious air, as well as a scenic white-sand beach, a lighthouse, superb beaches, summer band concerts, and even its own baseball team. For a look at old Cape Cod, tour the Atwood House , built in 1752 and occupied by the same family until 1926. The house is furnished with collections of 18th- and 19th-century furniture, paintings, glassware, china, and tools.

Chatham Marconi Maritime Center is the site of the former Marconi/RCA Wireless Receiving Station, a major World War II military installation and once the East Coast's busiest ship-to-shore station. In the museum are interactive exhibits that tell the story of wireless communication here, from its beginning with Marconi through the 20th century.

The station was a vital military listening station during World War II and an entire section is devoted to code interception and the Enigma machine. The museum engages young people with demonstrations of telegraph equipment and Morse code and exhibits on how cell phones and other contemporary electronics work.

Address: Chatham Marconi Maritime Center, 847 Orleans Road, North Chatham, Massachusetts

The ferry port of Hyannis, on the south coast, is the busy hub of Cape Cod life, and the town is a favorite with sailors who anchor their yachts in Lewis Bay. Yachts and boats are blessed during the annual Harbor Festival in early June, when there are boat races, live performances, and children's activities.

The Cape Cod Maritime Museum features the marine traditions of the Cape and Islands, with marine artifacts, exhibits on boat building, shipwrecks, and other maritime subjects. A highlight is the Cape's largest collection of scrimshaw that's open to the public.

A monument near Lewis Bay commemorates President John F. Kennedy, whose family has a retreat in Hyannis Port, and at the John F. Kennedy Museum , you can enjoy photos, oral histories, and multi-media exhibits about JFK's time here with his friends and family. A Kennedy Legacy Trail leads to sites of significance to the family, including St. Francis Xavier, the Kennedys' church.

Hyannis is where you can board the Cape Cod Central Railroad for excursions past cranberry bogs, woodlands, the Great Salt Marsh, and picturesque villages.

A paved recreation path, the Cape Cod Rail Trail extends 25 miles from South Dennis to Wellfleet, through the towns of Yarmouth, Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet. The mostly flat terrain has only a few minor grades around Orleans and Wellfleet and provides a wide variety of scenery and natural landscapes.

Although heavily used by cyclists, the paved trail has a wide unpaved shoulder on one side for horseback riders, as well as walkers and runners who prefer a natural surface. There are plenty of places to get off the trail for a beach stop or for food and water, and bike rentals are available at bike shops directly on the trail in Yarmouth, Dennis, Brewster, Orleans, and Wellfleet.

The trail follows much of the route used by the Old Colony Railroad Company, which opened in 1848, connecting Boston and Sandwich. By 1873, Old Colony extended the route all the way to Cape Cod's outermost point in Provincetown. Rail service ended about 1960, and the tracks were torn up, but you can still see some relics of the former rail line alongside the trail.

Popular as a beach resort and for water sports, Falmouth also has a lively music, art, and theater scene, with its own opera company. Rent a kayak to explore Great Salt Marsh or a bicycle to ride along the shore on the 10-mile Shining Sea Bike Path .

The Falmouth Museums on the Green include two 18th-century houses displaying period furniture, fine art, textiles, and temporary exhibits, as well as a colonial-style flower garden and a herb garden. You can picnic in the gazebo here.

The magnificently restored 1878 Highfield Hall & Gardens opened in 2006 after nearly falling to the wrecking ball a decade earlier. The house and two restored gardens host indoor and outdoor art exhibitions that have covered a wide range of mediums and styles, including fiber arts, ceramics, prints, quilts, sculpture, watercolors, photographs, and fairy houses.

Address: 56 Highfield Drive, Falmouth, Massachusetts

Yarmouth sits mid-Cape, northeast of Hyannis, and has several beaches, the largest of which is Seagull Beach. Two of the Cape's more unusual attractions are here.

The Edward Gorey House was the home of the 20 th -century artist, known for his often macabre pen-and-ink illustrations and stories, and reflects not only his art but his own distinctive personality. Devotees of PBS Masterpiece Mysteries can see the original plates for the introductory sequence created by Gorey for the series.

Whydah Pirate Museum offers Cape Cod's only chance to see and touch real pirate treasure. The fully rigged galley ship Whydah had been captured by pirate Samuel "Black Sam" Bellamy and used to pirate 53 vessels of their treasures before sinking in a storm in 1717. The interactive museum tells the story of the ship and its recovery in 1984 off the coast of Wellfleet, and displays the treasure found with it.

The Judah Baker Windmill was built in 1791 at Grand Cove in North Dennis, and moved repeatedly before being authentically restored at South Yarmouth. In the summer, you can go inside and see the original mechanisms.

You'll find more than a dozen beaches off Route 6A and Lower County Road in Dennis. The most popular is West Dennis Beach , on Davis Beach Road, more than a mile of beach and shoreline with parking for 100 cars; it's good for windsurfing and kite flying, as well as collecting shells brought up by the surf. There's also a children's playground.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail offers 22 miles of former railroad line between Dennis and Wellfleet.

When culture beckons, enjoy a performance at the Cape Playhouse , the oldest professional summer theater in the United States. Or visit the Cape Cod Museum of Art , dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the works of Cape artists, to see works by Thomas Hart Benton, Childe Hassam, Hans Hofmann, and others who have worked here.

With beaches facing both the Atlantic and Cape Cod Bay, Orleans offers something for everyone-warm or cold ocean beaches and picture-perfect beach views of both the sunrise and sunset . The Meeting House and Museum , housed in a Greek-Revival-style building, displays historic photographs, paintings, china, clothing, and toys.

The French Cable Station Museum houses some of the original equipment used to lay the transatlantic cable, which allowed for telegraph communication between North America and Europe. During World War I, General Pershing communicated from France through this cable station, and in 1927, the message that Charles Lindbergh had landed in Paris came to the US through this station.

Although it has nine beaches on Cape Cod Bay and two freshwater beaches, Brewster is among the quieter cape towns, with art and antiques galleries. Built in 1751 and still working today, Stony Brook Grist Mill uses the adjacent stream to grind grains into flour and corn into cornmeal.

The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History sits on an 80-acre tract with three nature trails that pass a saltwater marsh, woods, and a major herring run. In its exhibits and aquarium, you can learn about whales, birds, fish, shellfish, frogs, and turtles, as well as the Cape's archaeology.

Cape Cod has a wide variety of lodging for every taste and budget, so you'll find one close to all the best places to visit and things to do. These are some of the most highly rated.

Where to Stay Mid-Cape :

• A century-old landmark, Chatham Bars Inn sits on 25 landscaped acres overlooking the sea. Along with the beautifully restored main inn, the resort encompasses cottages, a spa, an award-winning dining room, and an eight-acre farm.
• The unfussy, minimalist décor and fine-art photography sets the Sea Street Inn , in Hyannis, apart from other Cape B&Bs, but it's the food that guests remember longest. The owner, a highly skilled chef, welcomes arriving guests with a fresh-made seafood roll, then wows them at breakfast with substantial and beautifully presented dishes, such as smoked trout, Croque Madame, or a seafood BLT.
• At Brewster's award-winning Candleberry Inn on Cape Cod , a multi-course gourmet breakfast awaits guests each morning. Also included are afternoon refreshments, beach towels, chairs, and umbrellas to use on the beach, which is a short walk away. Also in Brewster, The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club sits right on the ocean with a private beach, luxury spa, and Nicklaus-designed golf course.
• Within walking distance of the Sandwich Glass Museum, Belfry Inn & Bistro occupies a brilliantly converted former church and an adjacent high Victorian home. Guest rooms and public areas retain beautiful architectural details, including oak paneling and magnificent stained-glass windows.

Where to Stay in Provincetown :

• Set high atop a hill with panoramic ocean views, Lands End Inn offers luxurious and lavishly decorated rooms with private decks and patios. Individual rooms have distinctive architectural details-cedar-beamed ceilings, spiral iron staircases, carved pillars, and stained-glass windows-and are furnished with antiques, fine art, and an outstanding collection of Art Nouveau glassware. The sunset views are spectacular.
• The luxury Crowne Pointe Historic Inn & Spa is only a few steps away from shops, restaurants, and galleries. Also close are the beach and the pier for whale-watching cruises, but the inn's beautiful pool and courtyard, and the rooms with private decks and views, will tempt you to stay right there. Made-to-order breakfast is included.
• Close to Commercial Street, Brass Key Guesthouse is made up of several historic buildings enclosing a courtyard with a heated infinity pool and an English garden.

Where to Stay on Nantucket :

• The Nantucket Hotel & Resort is within walking distance of beaches, and the shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions of downtown Nantucket. With a range of accommodations that include rooms, suites, and cottages, the resort has plenty to keep families and couples busy: two heated outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, and spa.
• The Wauwinet overlooks the sea, its 33 adults-only guest rooms furnished with antiques and with private sundecks. The landscaped grounds have access to two beaches-one on the Atlantic Ocean and one on Nantucket Bay.

Where to Stay on Martha's Vineyard :

• The Hob Knob is a 17-room luxury boutique hotel set on beautiful grounds in the heart of Edgartown. The farm-to-table breakfast is included, as is afternoon tea with fresh-baked scones.
• The 48 rooms at Mansion House bring back the aura of its 19 th -century origins, but with 21 st -century luxuries. Some have fireplaces and balconies with views of Vineyard Sound, and the wraparound porch is meant for relaxing and enjoying the views.

If you plan to visit Cape Cod by car, be aware that weekend and holiday traffic on both bridges over Cape Cod Canal can be backed up for miles. There are several other options, including flights on Cape Air to all three destinations. Various bus services connect Boston and Providence to the Cape, and in summer, you can go by rail from Boston's South Station on the Cape Flyer. The fastest way to get from Boston to Provincetown is on the Boston to Cape Cod High-Speed Ferry , a 90-minute ride in a comfortable catamaran, landing right in the heart of Provincetown. A bonus of the trip is the view of the Harbor Islands and Boston skyline from the water.

• Getting to Nantucket: Ferries to Nantucket depart regularly from Hyannis, Harwich Port, and New Bedford, and you can get to Hyannis by bus or train (seasonal) from Boston.
• Getting to Martha's Vineyard: You can reach Martha's Vineyard by year-round daily ferry service from Woods Hole on Cape Cod or from New Bedford, Massachusetts. Buses from Boston connect to the Steamship Authority ferry terminal in Woods Hole. Cape Air flies year-round, connecting Boston to both islands, and seasonally from New York JFK. On a Boston to Martha's Vineyard day trip with optional Island Tour you will have six hours to explore on your own, plenty of time to hop the transit bus and see the Victorian cottages in Oak Bluffs, take a ride on the Flying Horses Carousel, and visit the 1672 Vincent House in the former whaling port of Edgartown, using the island discount card that's included with the tour.

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Where to Go in Massachusetts: For more information on what to see and do in the state, read our articles on the Top Tourist Attractions in Massachusetts and Top Tourist Attractions in Boston and Cambridge . If you are traveling through the area in summer, don't miss our piece on the best beaches . For any time of year, use our guide to the best weekend getaways to plan a short break.

Exploring Nearby States : On the coast south of Cape Cod is Rhode Island , with the magnificent Gilded Age mansions of Newport .

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• 11 Picturesque Towns in Massachusetts for a Weekend Retreat

Massachusetts might be one of the smallest states in the United States, but it sure knows how to make up for its size through scenic pint-sized towns! Megalopolises like Boston and Lowell win the numbers game, but the state’s tiny enclaves are where it truly shines and shows its beauty.

With the serene seaside burgs of Nantucket and Rockport, the historical center of Concord, the hiking trails of Westford, and Salem’s witchy past, there is a long list of things to do and see in this New England region. Practice your camera skills because you will be capturing lots of scenery from these small and picturesque towns in Massachusetts!

Few coastal towns look as postcard-worthy as Rockport . In fact, not only is it a thriving fishing harbor, but it also became known as an artist colony for its beauty, attracting many painters, photographers, and art lovers over the years. So while you should make feasting on lobster rolls from Roy Moore Lobster Company a priority, do not skip out on witnessing the “most often-painted building in America”, the iconic and photogenic fishing shack Motif Number 1.

See more of what makes Rockport an art hub through its numerous galleries, like the Rockport Art Association and Museum, the Art Nook Gallery, or the art piece of The Paper House—a home made entirely of paper! Spots full of natural marvels are also aplenty, as shown by camping at Halibut Point State Park and lounging at Back Beach’s quarter-mile sandy shore. Cannot get enough of Rockport’s ocean-tastic charms? Reserve a room at the Bearskin Neck Motor Lodge to get premier waterfront views from its terrace.

Hailing from the Berkshires in Western Massachusetts, Lenox is as beautiful as it is culturally and artistically rich—in more ways than one. What once were luxurious mansions during the Gilded Age are now history, music, art, and garden spaces for locals and tourists to enjoy. Besides the writing lectures and art exhibits at The Mount—writer Edith Wharton’s lavish abode, Shakespeare & Company and Tanglewood (Boston Symphony Orchestra’s summer home) will enrich your theater and orchestra-loving heart.

For a peek at the opulent lives of past Lenox residents, the Ventfort Hall Gilded Age Mansion & Museum offers a mansion tour and even a ghost-themed one for the not-so-easily rattled. If all these mansions made you want a taste of the deluxe lifestyle, book a night or two at The Playhouse, where icons like President McKinley and Nikola Tesla once stayed, or try the soon-to-reopen Blantyre. Then, reserve a table at Alta Restaurant for fine Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Now that is a fancy, albeit educational, Massachusetts vacay!

A quick ferry ride off the coast of Cape Cod will take you to the adorable island escapade of Nantucket . Do not let its tiny size fool you, as it is jam-packed with stunning views and activities from its beaches, multiple lighthouses, museums, and festivals. No wonder National Geographic included it in their top 10 islands list!

Upon arrival, the jewel of Nantucket—Brant Point Lighthouse—will immediately welcome you, as are other harbor-centric spots like the Whaling Museum, the historic theater of Dreamland Film, and the galleries of East End, Pierce, and Pete's Fresh Fish Prints. Eager to dip your toes in the water? Try the gentle surf of Jetties Beach, or challenge yourself with the expert-level waves of Surfside. But if you would rather stay dry and just meander around, do a staycation at the luxe 4-star-hotel of White Elephant Nantucket or the quaint B&B of Brass Lantern Inn. There are plenty of boutique shops and eateries nearby to fill your time, like Lola 41’s seafood spread and Antiques Depot—one of the oldest antique emporiums on the island.

While Concord has no shortage of natural wonders, such as the inspiring Walden Pond that has struck the hearts of American authors Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, Concord’s true beauty lies in its historic legacy. As the site of the first battle during the Revolutionary War, history buffs should add the Minute Man National Historical Park to their itineraries. Its hiking trail will lead you to the North Bridge and its Minute Man statue overlooking the Concord River.

Continue your history crawl with a visit to the Concord Museum, the town’s cache of war artifacts, Thoreau’s works, and other bits and bobs related to American history. Other important historical sites in Concord include The Old Manse, author Emerson’s Georgian mansion; the 19th-century-era Robbins House; and the site of Captain David Brown’s house. To go with your history-themed vacation, stay at Concord’s Colonial Inn, a 300-year-old lodging with a colorful past—from being an arms storehouse during the Revolutionary War to housing Thoreau during his Harvard years.

Salem is best known for its witch hunts and trials back in 1692, and if your trip is focused on that, then you should not pass on visiting the Witch History Museum or doing the Bewitched Historical Tours. However, there is more to this coastal city than its spooky side, and you can get a good look at its bewitching natural panorama through sailing tours on vintage schooner yachts or hiking through Salem Woods (we promise it is not scary).

For downtown explorers, a Salem Trolley ride would do you good, as you will see the town’s cobblestone streets and eclectic shops (Harbor Sweets’ handmade chocolates and Emporium 32’s curiosities, anyone?). Staying in the heart of the town with The Merchant Hotel will let you be near all the action, but a weekend at Salem’s oldest inn—The Daniels House—might make for an immersive vacation.

There is something hauntingly beautiful about old things, which Sandwich has a wellspring of due to being the oldest town on the peninsula. Explore its well-preserved remnants from bygone times, like the Hoxie House Museum, a 1675 home considered to be the oldest saltbox house in the area. For a historical structure that truly encapsulates the meaning of picturesque, tour the lovely mid-17th century mill of Dexter Grist Mill. It still mills fresh bags of corn meal, which you can buy at its store.

Do not leave Sandwich without visiting the Heritage Museums and Gardens, where art, history, and nature merge in its exhibits. From vintage automobiles and pre-colonization huts to New England paintings and an old-timey carousel, you will need at least a full day to properly enjoy what this museum has to offer. After your trip down Sandwich’s memory lane, pamper yourself at the Dan’l Webster Inn and Spa. Your feet will definitely need a massage!

Thought of as the most idyllic town in Martha’s Vineyard, Oak Bluffs will impress you with its row of adorable gingerbread cottage houses, a vintage carousel, and cinema-worthy beaches. The dollhouse-like abodes are not just eye candy—you can rent them via the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association and even tour the Cottage Museum to learn about their 1800s origins.

As pretty as the houses are, Oak Bluffs’ beaches rival it in the scenic department. The nearby Joseph Sylvia State Beach is a two-mile stretch of sandy shores and sparkly water that got its time in the spotlight in the movie Jaws. Meanwhile, Oak Bluffs Town Beach, otherwise known as Inkwell Beach, is preferred by families and beginner swimmers for its calm waters. After a splash and a swim, relive your childhood at the country’s oldest platform merry-go-round—the Flying Horses Carousel. Other nearby places of interest are the galleries of Michael Blanchard and Alison Shaw, the antique store of Second Treasures MV, and the alpaca farm of Island Alpaca Company.

Provincetown

Located at the very tip of Cape Cod, this tiny shoreside town of around 3,000 people is one of the most popular summer hangouts in the region. Not only does it rake in as many as 60,000 tourists at the height of vacation season for its gorgeous beaches, but its progressiveness is also an attractive point for the LGBTQ+ community.

Provincetown is home to the oldest gay bar, the A-House, and has been the beating heart of the town’s nightlife for its dance club, jukebox sessions, and exciting Macho Bar. Stay in the Provincetown Historic District to be near the party and its history. The Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum which honors the Mayflower pilgrims, Provincetown Town Hall’s live performance venue, Gabriel’s pet-friendly hotel, and the seafood eats of JD’s Woodfire Grill, are a stone’s throw away from each other. Beach-wise, Race Point Beach has unique activities other than swimming, such as whale watching and touring its old lighthouse.

Northampton

Go on a road trip to the artsy, funky, and free haven of Northampton. A hub for artists, academics, and activists, most of its attractions and activities come from Smith College, with Smith College Museum of Art and The Botanic Garden of Smith College as its top two tourist spectacles.

Downtown Northampton is a picture-perfect gem itself, with lots of excellent architecture and local businesses to admire. The bookstore nook of Thornes Marketplace, the Academy of Music’s grand concert hall, the 1927 Hotel Northampton, and the Historic Northampton Museum are just some of the must-see interesting places worthy of mention. Outside of town, spend some time with Mother Nature at Norwottuck Rail Trail to make your Northampton vacation more holistic.

Williamstown

Williamstown is undeniably one of the prettiest small towns in Massachusetts thanks to its 18th and 19th-century architecture, as seen by Williams College’s blend of Georgian Revival, Gothic Revival, and Collegiate Gothic styles. Some areas on the campus are open for visitors, such as the Williams College Museum of Art showcasing its American modernist collection, and the somber Gothic church of Thompson Memorial Chapel.

For a mix of man-made and Mother Nature-made art, stop by the Clark Art Institute and its 19th-century American and European paintings. The exhibit house is set in acres of lush forest, so you can go outside for a refreshing stroll after your gallery tour. Although it is a little ways off town, it is along a few Williamstown vacation spots, like the Tim Duncan Pottery (adult evening classes available), trek-worthy Fitch Trail in Fitch Memorial Woodlands, and the milking barn-turned-lodging of the 1896 House Inn.

Not many might know this, but Massachusetts actually hides a beautiful ski wonderland in one of its hills. Hit the slopes at the Nashoba Valley Ski Area, which has been in operation since 1964. Skiing, ski lessons, and tubing are the focus during winter, while off-season in the summer turns the place into the Tiki Trail 5K marathon venue. The Residence Inn and the Westford Regency Inn are great accommodation options for their modern amenities and proximity to the ski place, so you can get right back into ski action.

Outside winter, you can still enjoy Westford’s panoramic landscapes and sights through its year-round outdoorsy enticements. Love hiking? Tom Paul Trail, one of the longest trails in town, and the Stone Arch Trail, both end at the Stone Arch Bridge—an old 1872 bridge built along the nearby railroad. Into biking? The Bruce Freeman Rail Trail route that spans multiple Middlesex County towns might be a worthy challenge for you. Want to see the tiny flying charms of the outdoors indoors? The Butterfly Place has hundreds of butterflies in its indoor garden!

Final Thoughts

As seen from this list, Massachusetts is small but mighty. It might not have the landmass of its neighbors New York and Vermont, but it can pack a wallop when it comes to vacation destinations of the pretty kind!

More importantly, its beauty is not just superficial. Concord and Salem both show its historical relevance, Northampton has the allure of education, and Provincetown proves that an inclusive heart is a beaut in and of itself. Will you open your heart to these picturesque towns in Massachusetts on your next travel?

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