Massachusetts
Overview
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…
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Massachusetts
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…
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 articleBest Places to Visit
From Cape Cod’s glorious dunes and Cambridge’s tasty food scene to the spooky witches of Salem, here are the best places to visit in Massachusetts.
Read articleBest Time to Visit
Massachusetts is a year-round destination that's worth a visit in any season. Here are the best times to come for fall colors, beaches, festivals and fun.
Read articleThings to Know
A local's guide to everything you need to know before visiting Massachusetts.
Read articleFree Things to Do
Massachusetts has countless free places to visit and things to do, including museums, historic sites, lighthouses and scenic natural areas.
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:
Beaches
Martha's Vineyard vs Nantucket: which dreamy Massachusetts island is better?Apr 26, 2025 • 7 min read
- 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 important
Aug 20, 2022 • 7 min read
BeachesThe best places to visit in Massachusetts for history, beaches and witchesJul 31, 2022 • 7 min read
- State ParksThe 14 best state parks in Massachusetts you really shouldn't miss
May 17, 2022 • 7 min read
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