Travel Massachusetts - Local's Favorite Must See Sites
Everyone knows about Cape Cod and Boston as great travel
destinations. But, there are lesser traveled gems like Cape Ann
and Western Mass. Below, I have suggested some of my favorite
holiday trips. Explore Massachusetts and keep coming back for
more!
Gloucester / Rockport - Gloucester and Rockport are the
gems of Cape Ann. Both towns offer art communities, real fishing
communities, great beaches, whale watches, and more. Gloucester
has recently become famous as the real life and hollywood home
of the Perfect Storm. If you are looking for history (these
towns were founded shortly after the Pilgrims landed), great
seafood, art, beaches (try Good Harbor Beach or Wingaersheek
Beach), festivals such as St. Peter's Fiesta, the Folklife
Festival, or the Fish Festival.... visit Cape Ann and be amazed!
Salem - Travel to Salem and learn a little bit about
America's sad and scary past. Due to the hysterics of two young
girls, the town of Salem (which at that time was actually
located in what is now Danvers) began the Salem witch trials in
1692. Sadly, at that time, persecution of witches was not
uncommon, but these trials are among the most famous. 24 people
eventually died as a direct result of the Salem witch trials.
Today, you can visit several museums dedicated to this piece of
history. Among them are, the Peabody Essex Museum, the Salem
Witch Museum, and the Witch Dungeon Museum. Salem is now a
popular destination for present day witches.
National Seashore - Travel to see the dunes at Cape Cod's
National Seashore, and you will see a federally protected sea
shore. There are over 40,000 acres of dunes sprawling across 40
miles running the length of Cape Cod. To truly enjoy the views,
the salt air, and the crashing waves.... rent a bicycle and ride
along an old Indian trail. The ride will also give you a glimpse
of old new England wealth and summer spirit as you pass by
historic mansions and towns.
Martha's Vineyard - Martha's Vineyard as long been a
popular holiday destination for travelers around the world and
across the continent. Charm is overflowing on this island. Take
a ferry from Wood's Hole and explore the cranberry bogs, sand
dunes, and New England architecture of Martha's Vineyard. For an
alternate trip, check out Nantucket.
Pop Goes the Fourth - Nowhere in the United States is the
Fourth of July as big a holiday as in Boston. Every year the
Boston Symphony Pops Orchestra plays outdoors, synchronized with
the fireworks display along the Esplanade. Travel to Boston for
the 4th of July and you will not be disappointed.
The Freedom Trail - No Boston holiday is complete without
a trip down the Freedom Trail. A red line known as the Freedom
trail circles around the city of Boston, leading you to some of
the most important historical sites pertaining to the United
States' Independence. Highlights of the walk include, Old
Ironsides, Boston Common, the Paul Revere house, and the Old
State House. You can pick up the Freedom Trail at any point and
walk a part or walk the whole thing. Travel the Freedom trail
and realize why Boston is a great city for history and walking.
Foliage Tour - Mohawk Trail, otherwise known as Rte. 2,
is by far the most popular foliage tour in Massachusetts. Fall
is an unbelievably beautiful time in New England, and
Massachusetts is certainly no exception. No matter where you
travel during the fall foliage season, you are sure to seem some
amazing colors. Apple picking goes hand in hand with leaf
peeping, so feel free to get off the beaten trail and wander
around some of the more rural areas. If you have time, join in a
hayride and drink some great hot apple cider!
Mount Greylock / Appalachian Trail - Mount Greylock has
long been the inspiration for American writers. Today the
protected lands cover 12,000 acres including the highest point
in Massachusetts. Features include the Bascom Lodge, over 70
hiking trails, and amazing views. If you are interested in
hiking a portion of the Appalachian trail, there is access
through this park.
You can explore the nature and history of Massachusetts for
years and never see at all. The beach will continue to call you,
the foliage with amaze you year after year, and the museums and
history will keep you thinking and learning. Enjoy the state and
realize why the locals never need to leave!
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