Massachusetts, one of the original 13 colonies, has over 600 years of New England and American history and over 12,000 years of Native American history. The state protrudes into the North Atlantic Ocean and sits within the Appalachian Mountains.
Additionally, many of Massachusetts’ major cities like Boston, offer a vibrant music scene, night life, and art culture. Needless to say, Massachusetts is a place offering attractions for everyone whether you are a history buff, explorer, artist, or music lover.
Keep reading to immerse yourself in Massachusetts and learn where to go and what to do.
Historical Sites
Salem Maritime National Historic Site
On March 17th, 1938, the Salem Maritime National Historic Site was established as one of the first National Historic sites in America. The site is nine acres of land, consisting of twelve historic structures.
Visit the Custom house, which symbolized the Federal Government’s presence in Salem. You can also visit the Derby Light Station which has aided in navigation to the Salem harbor since 1871. The site also features the Friendship of Salem, a tall ship replica of the original 342-ton Friendship built in 1796.
Old State House
The Old State House was built in 1713 and served as the seat of Massachusetts general court until 1798. It is currently one of the oldest public buildings in the United States and has been the grounds of many prevalent American events.
The Old State House is where the Boston Massacre took place in 1770 and the Declaration of Independence was heard for the first time in 1776 Today, anybody can take a tour of the house and learn about these historical events.
Lexington Green
Lexington Green is the grounds used during the Battle of Lexington on April 19th, 1775 and is now a historic park. The Battle of Lexington was the first major engagement of the American Revolutionary war and the beginning of America’s victory.
At Lexington Green, visitors can learn about the battle of Lexington, view a statue of the Minutemen lost during the battle, and explore historic buildings including the Battle Green Meetinghouse and the Jonas Parker House.
These are just a few examples of historical sites in Massachusetts, some additional sites include, Concord, Plymouth Rock, the Freedom Trail, and Harvard University
Sports
TD Garden
TD Garden is a multi-purpose stadium used for the home games of the Boston Celtics and Boston Bruins.
The stadium has a seating capacity of 19,580 during a basketball game and 17,850 for ice hockey games. Additionally, 90 suite seats and 1,100 club seats are available.
TD Garden’s multi-million dollar high definition video scoreboard creates memorable games that attract sports fans from all over the nation.
Fenway Park
Fenway Park is one of the most famous major league baseball stadiums in America and is the oldest ballpark in MLB.
The Park is home to the Boston Red Sox, one of the most popular franchises in the industry of baseball. The park is also known for the Green Monster, a 37-foot high-left field wall that is a challenging obstacle for hitters. Fenway Park’s manual scoreboard is another interesting feature since digital scoring is the standard among other parks. This provides a nostalgic feeling of classic baseball that is admired by even the most amateur baseball goers.
Gillette Stadium
Gillette Stadium in Foxborough is another multi-purpose stadium and is used for the home games of New England Patriots of National Football and New England Revolution of Major League Soccer. Additionally, the stadium is used for concerts and events when football and soccer are not occupying the space.
Music Venues
Symphony Hall
Symphony Hall is a world renowned concert hall that hosts a variety of jazz, classical, and contemporary performances. Located in Boston and built in 1900, this hall has a Beaux- art style and is famous for its acoustics.
Symphony hall has seen many historic performances including the debut of Leonard Bernstein as a conductor in 1943 and the premier of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.2.
House of Blues
House of the Blues is a live music venue located near Fenway Park and the Boston Garden.
This venue features various performances from the best pop, rock, blues and hip hop artists in the country and locally.
The House of Blues has been the stage of many notable performers such as B.B. King, John Mayer, and the Black Keys. Visitors can stop by for a tour, live show, or a drink and meal at one of its many bars and restaurants.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking and Biking
Massachusetts has a vast network of hiking and biking trails open to the public year round.
Popular destinations include the Blue Hills Reservation, The Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, and the Minuteman Bikeway.
At these parks, you find trails fit for amateur and experienced hikers and bikers.
Fishing and Boating
Since Massachusetts is located on the Atlantic Ocean, the opportunity for fishing and boating is plentiful. Freshwater and saltwater rivers, lakes and harbors are open and filled with various fish species like Landlocked Atlantic Salmon, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, and Trout.
Annual Events
Salem Haunted Happenings
Throughout October each year, Salem turns spooky, offering ghost tours, haunted houses, and halloween themed events.
The Boston Marathon
On Patriots day each year, runners from around the world take place in the world’s most prestigious races- The Boston Marathon.
Boston Cannabis Week
For one week each year in September, Boston celebrates cannabis and aims to normalize the plant’s use. The week is kicked off with a golf tournament, and is followed by various live music performances, educational events, and shopping opportunities (here you can apply for a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts).
Cape Cod Cranberry Festival
Each fall Cape Cod’s cranberry industry is given the spotlight in festival form. Live entertainment, a parade, and cranberry themed activities offer visitors a fun and delicious experience.
