Get to know Massachusetts
Rich in history, proud traditions, sports teams,
beautiful architecture, and savory local flavors
Get To Know Massachusetts
Massachusetts attracts thousands of visitors every year, which makes sense because of the captivating cities, relaxing beaches, and all-around heavenly scenery. If you’ve never been to the East Coast, it can be a great starting point to get to know the northeast. Even if you’re a native to the state or a state nearby, Massachusetts has endless opportunities to explore. Commonly known as the Bay State, it’s also regarded as a state rich with history about how the United States became a country. Buy a bus ticket today to start your trip.
There's no shortage of things to do in Massachusetts.
A Brief History of Massachusetts
Many people are familiar with the iconic pilgrimage that the first settlers took when coming to the states. Massachusetts is one of the first colonies and has a rich history for everyone to enjoy. There are endless sights, many focusing on the Revolutionary War and how the United States became a country. Basically, it’s impossible not to get swept up in history.
For specific options, check out The Zion Union Heritage Museum near Hyannis, which offers African American history and artifacts. The Aptucxet Trading Post Museum in Bourne offers a replica of a trading post from the 17th century. Don’t miss the Salem Witch Museum in Salem, and when you visit Boston, there will be plenty of historical sites and museums from the Paul Revere House to the Freedom Trail to the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.
Must See List
- Springfield’s Titanic Historical Society
- Salem’s Maritime National Historic Site
- Cambridge’s Longfellow House
- Brookline’s John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site
- Stockbridge’s Mission House
- The Boston African American National Historic Site
- Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden
- Bunker Hill Monument
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
- Martha’s Vineyard
- Woods Hole Science Aquarium
- The Kennedy Compound
Top Cities To Visit in Massachusetts
Boston
Explore the rich history of Massachusetts’ capital and one of the oldest cities in the United States of America. Not only is it the pride of its state, but it is famed for its association with the American Revolution. Dive back into the days of the eighteenth century (1765 to be exact) with a walk along the Freedom Trail. This is a 2.5-mile tour that you can take on your own as you explore the national landmarks of that era, starting off with the Boston Common and ending at the Bunker Hill Monument.
Springfield
As the largest city in western New England, Springfield boats some beautiful sights that your little ones are guaranteed to love. It has plenty of options for a fun family day, whether they’re book lovers or sports fanatics. If they’re fans of green eggs and ham, take a stroll down memory lane as you surprise them with a tour of the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden. If they prefer hoops, take a moment to head over to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, which tells the history of the sport in the state it was born in.
Woods Hole
Take in the sea breeze of Woods Hole, located in the town of Falmouth, that lies at the southwest corner of Cape Cod. Nearby is Martha’s Vineyard, so if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on over for a visit with the Steamship Authority. However, if you prefer to lay low and take in the peace and quiet of Woods Hole, your family will love a day exploring Nobska Point Lighthouse and its stunning view of the ocean. If your kids are feeling restless, take a trip to Woods Hole Science Aquarium to learn more about the aquatic life of the area.
Hyannis
This village on the Cape Cod peninsula is a place where many families, including the Kennedys, have visited for a chance to unwind. In fact, the Kennedy Compound still sits there today, in Hyannis Port. While in Hyannis, enjoy an afternoon exploring Cape Cod Beer with a tour explaining how their ale is produced. Enjoy this brewery’s beer tasting and be sure to try the Blonde Ale. End the day with a walk along one of Hyannis’ most popular beaches, Kalmus Beach. It’s the perfect spot to go collect some shells and hear nothing but the waves of the Nantucket Sound.
Culture in Massachusetts
Activities abound in Massachusetts. Each city and town offer wide varieties of events in which to explore and participate. And during your stay, you’ll most likely notice an expansive set of cultural norms. For example, being the home of the first university in the states, residents take pride in Massachusetts’ commitment toward higher education and its breadth of colleges and universities.
If you’re interested in seafood, whaling, and classic northeast customs, visit Cape Cod, Nantucket, or Martha’s Vineyard. That said, treat your taste buds to some scallops, fish ‘n’ chips, and of course, clam chowder.
If you’re curious about the artwork, visit the Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield or the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst. Also, check out the Edward Gorey House near Barnstable, which has been converted into a museum for his artwork. If you’re visiting Boston, chart a day for its many cultural destinations, like SoWa Boston, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Boston Children’s Museum.
Attractions
From the New England Aquarium and Fenway Park in Boston to Battleship Cove in Fall River, the EcoTarium in Worcester and Six Flags New England near Springfield, there’s plenty of exciting, family-friendly attractions for kids of all ages. Looking for a more tranquil stay? Visit Nobska Beach in Woods Hole or the Travessia Winery in New Bedford. Other great attractions include: Boston’s Little Italy, Boston’s Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Cambridge’s Harvard Square, Springfield’s Zoo and Education Center at Forest Park.
Trust us, you’re bound to find something for everyone in the Bay State.
Where and When to Stay
A good time to visit Massachusetts is anytime between late April and early October when you’ll experience calm, warm weather during the day and cool, crisp temperatures at night. During March, make sure you don’t miss the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Boston. However, many people look forward to visiting in the fall and winter months, when the leaves change color and snow swirls from the sky.
The Bay State offers an abundance of hotels, B&Bs, and resorts to rest up and reenergize for your next day around town. From the Sea Crest Beach Hotel in Falmouth to The Hotel Northampton in Northampton to the Lamb and Lion Inn in Barnstable, there are plenty of choices to stay outside of Bean Town. If you are looking for a Boston-based hotel, however, try W Boston or Boston Park Plaza.