Massachusetts’ starring role in American history was cemented when the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock in 1620. But ever the over-achiever, the Bay State was also where the Salem Witch Trials, Boston Tea Party, and part of the Revolutionary War went down. This wealth of history is evident as soon as you set foot on Boston’s Freedom Trail—but don’t just stay stuck in the past. The best things to do in Massachusetts range from catching Red Sox games at Fenway Park and getting scholarly at Harvard to leaf-peeping in the Berkshires and summering on Cape Cod.
Massachusetts may be a year-round destination, but fall is the best time to visit the New England state. Leaf-peepers come from far and wide to admire its vibrant foliage as the seasons turn; students flock to Boston’s many universities; and Salem gets extra spooky as Halloween rolls around. But if warm weather is more your style, summertime delights include hitting the beach on Martha’s Vineyard, festive Fourth of July fireworks, and lobster rolls galore.
Boston is Massachusetts’ capital and largest city, so it’s a major transit hub. Served by Boston Logan International Airport and South Station (the state’s largest train station), the city is also crisscrossed by "T" and local buses. Ferries and water taxis offer a pretty way to explore Boston Harbor (and take you to the coastal state’s most popular island destinations), while various bus companies serve other parts of the state.
Massachusetts is home to some of the country’s most celebrated craft breweries—and can be credited in part with kicking off the New England-style IPA trend. Hit up Trillium Brewing’s Boston locations for high-octane stouts and double IPAs, or head to Salem for Czech-style lagers at Notch Brewery. And if it’s hype-chasing you’re after, Tree House Brewing Company draws huge crowds for its can releases.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EDT (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 102 | Tours 543 | Reviews 81,846 |
Yes, Massachusetts has a wide range of fun things to do. Sports fans can watch Red Sox games, nature lovers can hike in the Berkshires, and cultural types can visit the storied Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. From whale-watching boat rides to ski trips and brewery tours, there’s something for everyone.
...MoreMassachusetts is famous for its history, which spans Plymouth Rock, Boston’s Freedom Trail, and the battlefields of Lexington and Concord. It’s known for its thriving capital, Boston, a major destination for culture lovers, sports fans, and scholarly types. And it’s celebrated for its beachside attractions, including Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket.
...MoreBoston is one of the United States’ oldest cities, New England’s largest city, and a major East Coast hub. It serves up world-class museums, and historical landmarks such as Boston Common, the Paul Revere House, and Faneuil Hall. There’s also a dynamic dining and shopping scene; the country’s oldest ballpark, Fenway Park; and internationally renowned universities.
...MoreCape Cod is famous for being one of the East Coast’s most in-demand and exclusive beach destinations. Celebrated for its miles of attractive coastline and charming small towns, it’s one of New England’s top summertime seaside resorts. It’s also known for its walking trails, whale-watching opportunities, and art galleries.
...MoreYes, Massachusetts is famous for its beauty. The Berkshires—a mountainous area of western Massachusetts, known for idyllic small towns and rich forests—are exceptionally beautiful, as are the beaches of Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. And for beautiful urban vistas, head out on a boat tour to admire Boston Harbor.
...MoreMassachusetts has several famous culinary staples. This coastal state is renowned for its ocean-fresh seafood, exemplified by New England clam chowder and summer-ready lobster rolls. Boston also has several famous dishes, including Boston cream pie and Boston baked beans.
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