If you’re searching for an uncommon destination idea that offers a vast array of things to see and do, consider the entire state of Massachusetts.
Whether it’s getting out on the water for a whale watching tour, enjoying an outdoor concert in the mountains, or catching a baseball game in Boston, Massachusetts has something for everyone. One of the best ways to experience all that this destination has to offer is a road trip. And, now it’s even easier to plan your adventure thanks to the free Visit MA app which allows you to create bespoke itineraries or follow along popular routes including the Massachusetts Whale Trail and Masterpiece Trail.
Here’s a sampling of what to see and do in the state.
Greater Boston
Greater Boston
Who doesn’t enjoy walking around the city, visiting parks, stopping by small boutiques, and enjoying a meal on a patio during a beautiful summer’s day?
With the historic Freedom Trail alongside modern museums and a thriving food and drink scene, Boston is well worth exploring. The city is a quintessential blend of colonial history and cutting-edge innovation. From the charming cobblestones of Beacon Hill to the civic landmarks along the Black Heritage Trail and Freedom Trail, to the iconic grounds of Harvard University and Fenway Park, Boston is a treasure trove of Americana.
Consider visiting The Time Out Market, which is a food-hall style emporium coming soon to Boston’s Landmark Center. A short walk from Fenway Park and several area college campuses, the market is part of a revitalization of the vast Landmark Center.
North of Boston
Whale Watching Tours
The North of Boston region is comprised of two unique areas, North of Boston and The Greater Merrimack Valley. On the North Shore, explore gorgeous coastline filled with stunning beaches and cultural stops as varied as the Salem Witch Museum, Shalin Liu Performance Center, and more. In the Greater Merrimack Valley, you can relive the revolution in Lexington and Concord.
Launching this spring are the all-new Lobster and Liberty trip itineraries. These visitor guides will take travelers on journeys that highlight the best that the region has to offer; incredible seafood paired with fascinating historical stops including day trips from Boston and more.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy Salem’s first rooftop bar. Located at the top of The Hotel Salem, this seasonal dining space features an outdoor kitchen and expansive views of Salem’s cobblestone streets and bustling harbor. The hotel is a 44-room boutique hotel located on Salem’s bustling Essex Street and housed in a former department store space, this ultra-stylish property just opened in 2017. The hotel is outfitted in mid-century modern decor with vintage retail-inspired touches that are inspired by the New England department stores of yesteryear.
Cape and The Islands
Cape Cod
Summer is arguably one of the best seasons to visit Cape Cod and the iconic islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Swimming, spending time at the beach, staying at a quaint inn on the sea, or simply walking around and enjoying the magical view and sunny skies are just some of the many activities to enjoy in this classic holiday spot.
Discover a perfect balance of modern amenities and European antiques throughout The Inn at Yarmouth Port, a historic ship captain’s home. From century-old wide plank pine floors and beautiful moldings to fireplaces evoking times past, each guest room at this historic Yarmouth Port inn welcomes visitors to enjoy a piece of Cape Cod’s history.
This summer, The Cultural Center of Cape Cod will be filled with an extraordinary exhibit of Harley-Davidson motorcycles and motorcycle art from the collection of David McGraw, who has worked for decades to acquire and restore iconic Harleys and other fine machines, including some so rare that even Harley-Davidson does not own them. The exhibit will be celebrated with “Leather and Lace,” a special event on Friday, September 20, before opening to the public on Saturday, September 21.
South of Boston
Plymouth
The eclectic South of Boston region is filled with the likes of nearly 400 years of history, charming fishing villages, beaches, and unexpected art to explore.
This summer is a great time to check out all that Plymouth has to offer ahead of 2020 when it is sure to be in the spotlight for its 400th Anniversary commemorations. Plymouth 400 is an anniversary of the national and international significance of the Mayflower voyage and the founding of Plymouth Colony.
Plymouth 400, Inc. is planning Signature Events and Programs throughout 2020 which will include historical and cultural exhibitions, multi-day festivals, original arts, and entertainment collaborations, and educational programming.
North Central Massachusetts
North Central
Visit North Central Massachusetts and explore Johnny Appleseed Country!
This scenic region is quickly becoming one to watch with its exciting outdoor adventure activities and booming craft beer scene.
Within the last year, North Central Massachusetts saw the grand opening of one of the region’s most beautiful boutique hotels, The Groton Inn. Just 35 miles from Boston, this was once America’s oldest inn. The original structure (circa 1678) was destroyed by fire in 2011 and has been meticulously reimagined as a new 60-room boutique hotel.
Western Massachusetts
The Clark Institute
If you prefer mountains over the ocean, then Western Massachusetts is the region for you! This rural area is famous for its summer concerts at Tanglewood, an outdoor music venue nestled in the mountains of the Berkshires, world-class spas, and outdoor adventure activities. It’s also home to art institutions including the MASS MOCA, the largest center for contemporary visual and performing arts in the country, and The Clark with its impressive collection of classic masterpieces.
The Clark Art Institute, located in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts, is one of a small number of institutions globally that is both an art museum and a center for research, critical discussion, and higher education in the visual arts. The Clark always has something new to discover with exhibitions and events highlighting art, nature, and culture.
Source: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism