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If you’re looking for things to do in Massachusetts to add to your bucket list, then you’ve come to the right place. Massachusetts is a state in the New England region that offer’s a wealth of history, serene nature, and vibrant city’s.
As one of the oldest states in America (the sixth to be admitted to the Union), it is a state that has so many stories to tell; from witch hunts to Civil War history, there are no shortage of historic sites to explore.
The Bay State also has beautiful beaches, quirky attractions, cool cities and charming small towns, plus access to some unique outdoor adventures.
If you need help putting your Massachusetts bucket list together, here are some unmissable attractions and landmarks!
Things To Do In Massachusetts
1. Fall in Love with Boston
Visiting Boston is like stepping back in time. Everywhere you look there is some history and culture to explore.
Walk where the echoes of the American Revolution resonate throughout the city by strolling along The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail full of iconic historic landmarks you cannot miss.
Walking through the historic neighborhoods of Beacons Hill and North End, you will be amazed by the stunning historic architecture and the quaint vibes.
Some of the must-see attractions in Boston include the iconic Old State House, which stands as a testament to the city’s pivotal role in American history.
I also love visiting Faneuil Hall Marketplace which always buzzes with energy, and features lots of cute shops, bakeries, restaurants, and eateries.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate Boston’s vibrant arts scene. Head to the Museum of Fine Arts to see an impressive collection spanning centuries!
Architecture lovers should check out the Boston Public Library, which is a masterpiece of design and features beautiful and grand halls, as well as Trinity Church, which is an 18th century, Richardsonian Romanesque church with intricate detailing.
2. Watch the Boston Red Sox Play
Watching the Boston Red Sox play at Fenway Park is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re a fan of baseball or not.
The atmosphere is electric! The stands are filled with the cheers of passionate fans clad in Red Sox gear, and the game is always exciting.
Fenway Park is an iconic ballpark, famous for its Green Monster looming in left field.
Every game feels like a celebration of tradition, from the singing of “Sweet Caroline” in the middle of the eighth inning to the collective anticipation of a home run.
For sports fans looking for a special activity to do in Massachusetts, a Red Sox game shouldn’t be skipped. It’s one of the best things to do in Boston!
3. See the Fall colors of New England
Massachusetts is one of the six states that make up New England, and is surrounded by New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island and Connecticut.
Being in the center of New England, it’s the place to be in the Fall, as the Autumnal colors of the foliage in this region are legendary!
Some of the best places to see fall foliage in Massachusetts are:
- The Berkshires, a mountainous region is known for its breathtaking forest landscape, which are best seen during the vibrant autumn period. The combination of rolling hills and forests make it a perfect destination for leaf-peepers. You can take scenic drives, such as the Mohawk Trail, to see panoramic views of the colorful landscape.
- Mount Greylock State Reservation, which is the highest peak in Massachusetts, and offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding areas and where you can see a multitude of shades of orange, yellow and red. The reservation features numerous hiking trails that lead through forests of maple, oak, and birch.
- Walden Pond, which was made famous by Henry David Thoreau, is not only a historical site but also a beautiful spot for enjoying fall foliage. The changing leaves around the pond create a picturesque reflection in the water.
- Cape Cod, which is often associated with summer, brings a different charm in Autumn. The coastal landscapes backed by the changing colors of the trees create a unique backdrop. It also has a quieter atmosphere in the fall.
- The North Shore towns like Rockport and Gloucester are known for their forested landscapes behind the beaches, which has a cool juxtaposition of colorful fall foliage against the backdrop of the ocean.
- Quabbin Reservoir is surrounded by forests and hills, making it an excellent spot for viewing fall colors.
- Boston’s Emerald Necklace, which is a chain of parks designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, are the best place to see fall colors without leaving the city of Boston. Our favorite parks are Franklin Park and the Arnold Arboretum.
Don’t miss our tips for taking a New England road trip in the Fall.
4. Relax at Cape Cod National Seashore
Cape Cod National Seashore is a protected area that spans over 40 miles, and is made up of pristine coastline, showcasing stunning sandy beaches, marshes, and picturesque dunes.
The seashore is not only a haven for nature lovers but also holds historical significance, as it preserves the cultural heritage of the region, including remnants of early Native American settlements and the iconic lighthouses that dot the coast.
Some popular things to do in Cape Cod include biking on the Cape Cod Rail Trail, swimming from the beaches, and birdwatching.
It’s a quaint and quiet place to relax in Massachusetts (outside of the summer months) and really captures the authentic essence of New England coastal charm.
5. Explore Martha’s Vineyard
We loved exploring Martha’s Vineyard, picturesque island off the southern coast of Massachusetts, because of its laid-back atmosphere and small-town community.
It has long been a favored retreat for artists, writers, and celebrities, though it was historically a whaling hub in the 19th century.
It’s made up of small, quaint towns, the most famous being Edgartown and Oak Bluffs, which feature beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. Some of these historic buildings are now inns and guesthouses, allowing you to stay in the history of the region.
You can walk along the scenic beaches or enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, the island beckons you to slow down the pace and just enjoy being in nature.
Be sure to visit the famous Aquinnah Cliffs, or take a ferry to nearby Chappaquiddick Island.
6. Visit the Salem Witch Museum
If you prefer discovering the infamous side of Massachusetts, then head to the witchy town of Salem. At the Salem Witch Museum, you can learn about the infamous witch trials of 1692, which is one of Salem’s most popular attractions.
The museum is a great place to learn about the hysteria that led to the wrongful persecution of accused witches, as well as the stories of some of the most famous acusees, and its lasting impact on American history.
Nestled in the heart of Salem’s historic districts, the museum is not the only reason to visit Salem. It was also the birth town of the author Nathaniel Hawthorne, who wrote the world-famous novel, The Scarlet Letter, and you can visit his birth home as well as House of the Seven Gables, the home that inspired his novel of the same name, in Salem.
7. Visit the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord
Another place of literary importance in Massachusetts is the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord, which is a beautiful resting ground that is the final resting place of many notable figures, including authors like Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Ralph Waldo Emerson.
The cemetery is set within a picturesque forest with a river and quiet places for reflection, and is made up of winding paths, green vegetation and striking granite monuments.
You can take a self-guided tour to discover the graves of these literary greats and learn about their contributions to American literature and philosophy.
8. Watch Boston Symphony Orchestra Concert at Tanglewood
Music lovers mustn’t pass up a chance to watch the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood in the Berkshires.
Tanglewood, which was established in 1937, is a renowned venue known for hosting classical music concerts, set in the picturesque outdoors with rolling hills and lush gardens as the stands.
There is something so magical about enjoying the symphony under the stars!
9. Stay at the Beauport Hotel
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to stay for a weekend that’s a little bit special, then head to the Beauport Hotel in Gloucester, a stunning 4* hotel that has been designed to reflect the rich maritime history of the area.
It has breathtaking views of Gloucester Harbor, as well as a rooftop pool, spa services, and an on-site restaurant.
The hotel’s prime location overlooking one of the oldest harbors in America puts it close to historical attractions such as the Cape Ann Museum and the iconic Fishermen’s Memorial.
They also have their own cruise line, so you can enjoy sunset boat cruises or even a special candle-lit dinner on a boat. If you’re looking for romantic, bucket list moments in Massachusetts, this one is for special occasions. See rates and availability here.
10. Tour Harvard University
Perhaps the most famous landmark in Boston, if not all of Massachusetts, is Harvard University in Cambridge.
This is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher education in the United States, and while we can all dream about studying in the same school as the greats, we’re not all blessed with the chance of doing so.
Fortunately you can still go and tour the campus, iconic Harvard Yard, where many notable figures have walked, the Widener Library, the Harvard Art Museums, and pass by the John Harvard statue, which is dedicated to the founder of the university.
A highlight of visiting Harvard is the Harvard Museum of Natural History, which features the University’s vast collection of artifacts related to the natural world. Learn more about the Harvard University walking tour.
11. Visit Beautiful Beaches in Nantucket
If you’re looking for fun things to do in the summer, then catch one of the ferries from Hyannis to Nantucket, a small island in Southern Massachusetts.
Nantucket is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich maritime history, and has blissful sandy shores and crystal-clear waters – some of the most picturesque beaches in New England.
Head to famous beaches like Surfside Beach and Jetties Beach, for some sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
Like Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket was a former whaling hub in the 18th and 19th centuries and turned into a vacationers paradise, and is known for its charming cobblestone streets and well-preserved historic homes.
If you like quiet, beach escapes, this is a quintessential New England getaway.
12. Visit the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield
For sports fans, be sure to add the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield to your bucket list.
The Hall of Fame honors the legacy of Dr. James Naismith, who invented the game of basketball in Springfield in 1891, and showcases the history and evolution of the game.
As well as basketball history, it also has engaging exhibits, memorabilia, and multimedia presentations that celebrate the achievements of legendary players, coaches, and contributors to the sport.
13. Go Whale Watching from Gloucester
Another unique way to get out into the great outdoors is to go on a whale watching tour, which is best done from the town of Gloucester in Massachusetts, because it’s one of the oldest fishing ports in America.
Gloucester has a maritime history dating back to the early 1600s, and the waters off Cape Ann which connect to the Gulf of Maine are known to be a prime feeding ground for various whale species, including humpbacks, finbacks, and minke whales.
The best time to see whales is from May to October, and there are plenty of tour operators offering trips throughout the summer from the harbour.
14. Visit the Peabody Essex Museum, Salem
Another museum in Salem not to miss is the Peabody Essex Museum, which was founded in 1799, making it one of the oldest continuously operating museums in the United States.
It contains an impressive collection of over 1.8 million works of art, including American art, Asian art, maritime artifacts, and decorative arts.
15. Sunset Cruise from Boston Harbor
Lastly, a great way to end a trip to Massachusetts is to sail on a sunset boat cruise from Boston, where you can appreciate the beauty of the city’s skyline from a unique perspective.
Not only is it a peaceful way to admire the views, but Boston has a rich maritime history so it wouldn’t be right to visit without stepping on a boat at some point!
You can sail past historic landmarks such as the USS Constitution, the Boston Harbor Islands, and the see the domes of the State House and the John Hancock Tower in the distance.
Many sunset cruises have dining and live music as well, so if you are looking for something special to do while on your Massachusetts vacation, this is a great activity to add to the list.
More Massachusetts & New England Travel Tips
Need more inspiration for visiting Massachusetts? Here are some other helpful guides!
- The Best Small Towns In New England You Must Visit!
- The Ultimate Dallas to Boston Road Trip Itinerary
- 15 Things to do in Manchester VT for First Time Visitors
- 10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Vermont, New England
As you can see from the comments, we already have so many wonderful tips on places to visit in MA. Can you suggest other places to visit in Massachusetts? Please share your ideas in the comments as well!