Massachusetts
New England's most populous state, Massachusetts packs in appealing variety, from the sandy beaches of Cape Cod to college towns of the Pioneer Valley to the woodsy hills of the Berkshires. The state's rich history oozes from almost every quarter: discover the shoreline in Plymouth, where the Pilgrims first settled in the New World; explore the battlefields in Lexington and Concord, where the first shots of the American Revolution rang out; and wander the cobbled streets and old ports of Salem, Nantucket and New Bedford, where whaling and merchant boats once docked.
Attractions
Must-see attractions
Boston
The educational playground that is the Museum of Science has more than 600 interactive exhibits. Favorites include the world’s largest lightning-bolt…
Boston
Teeming with sea creatures of all sizes, shapes and colors, this giant fishbowl is the centerpiece of downtown Boston's waterfront. There are countless…
South Shore
Three miles south of Plymouth center, Plimoth Plantation authentically re-creates the Pilgrims’ settlement in its primary exhibit, entitled 1627 English…
Boston
Tucked into Franklin Park, the zoo features a half-dozen different habitats, as well as special exhibits devoted to birds and butterflies. The highlight…
Cape Cod
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…
Boston
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…
Boston
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…
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…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
There's more to historic Salem than witch trials. Plan your visit with this guide to the best things to do in this New England town.
Read articleThings to Know
A local's guide to everything you need to know before visiting Massachusetts.
Read articleMoney and Costs
Traveling on a budget? Here are practical tips on how to save money on your trip to Massachusetts.
Read articleBest Road Trips
The best road trips in Massachusetts offer history, scenery, and some sublime cultural attractions.
Read articleArticles
Latest stories from Massachusetts
Filter by interest:
- MuseumsA reason to travel to Amherst, MA in December: the reopened Emily Dickinson Museum
Dec 8, 2022 • 3 min read
Destination Practicalities13 things to know before traveling to Massachusetts - and why not trashing the Red Sox is the most importantAug 20, 2022 • 7 min read
- BeachesThe best places to visit in Massachusetts for history, beaches and witches
Jul 31, 2022 • 7 min read
State ParksThe 14 best state parks in Massachusetts you really shouldn't missMay 17, 2022 • 7 min read
- Festivals & EventsThe best time to visit Massachusetts for a dose of New England magic
May 14, 2022 • 6 min read
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