Boston

Massachusetts

United States

North America

Cape Cod

Martha's Vineyard

Salem

Destinations

Massachusetts is the most populous state in New England and is a vibrant state full of history. If you're looking for things to do in Massachusetts, you can take a trip to to the heart of Boston, and make a little history of your own in this 21st-century city.

Massachusetts is the most populous state in New England and is a vibrant state full of history. If you're looking for things to do in Massachusetts, you can see where the first pilgrim settlers arrived at Plymouth Rock. Visit the famous spots where the country fought and won its independence from the British. Then take a trip to to the heart of Boston, and make a little history of your own in this 21st-century city.
<h2>1. Freedom Trail</h2>
The Freedom Trail is a collection of museums, meeting houses, churches, burial grounds, historic markers, parks, and even a ship, which tell the story of the fight for American Independence.

It runs for 2.5 miles from Boston Common to Bunker Hill Monument and has 16 historical spots. These include the Old South Meeting House, where the Sons of Liberty met to organize the Boston Tea Party, and the USS Constitution which is the oldest warship afloat.

If you're considering taking a self-guided tour, you'll want to give yourself at least a full day to explore everything. Otherwise, you can purchase guided tour tickets at Boston Common or the Faneuil Hall Visitor Center.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023820" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_33536770.jpg" alt="Bunker Hill Monument in Boston, Massachusetts" width="1000" height="664" />


<h2>2. Minute Man National Park</h2>
Lexington was settled in 1641 and is the starting point for the American Revolution. The Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775, was the scene of the first shots fired in the name of the Revolutionary War.

Today you can follow the route from Lexington to Concord via the Minute Man National Historic Park. The park commemorates two hundred American minutemen who bravely held off 700 British soldiers.

Within the Minute Man National Historic Park, you can also see the 5-mile trail that Paul Revere rode, leading to his capture site. Stop off at the visitor center first to experience the multimedia presentation, then walk the route yourself for a more personal connection to the land.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1023821" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_306174506-1-1024x678.jpg" alt="Minute Man National Historical Park" width="1024" height="678" />


<h2>3. Plymouth</h2>
Southeast of Boston, the bayside town of Plymouth, which is a small town that has played a huge part in the building of America. In fact, it's even known as "America's Hometown."

One of the most famous attractions in Plymouth is Plymouth Rock, which is said to be where the Pilgrims first set foot in America. The rock is thought to be around 600 feet from where the original settlement was.

In 1947, Plimoth Plantation opened. It is a living history museum, which has a recreation of the 1627 Plymouth settlement, and a replica of a Wampanoag 17th-century homesite. The farm also houses several rare animals that would have been in Plymouth Colony such as Milking Kerry and Devon cattle.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023822" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_784968229.jpg" alt="White Horse Beach Plymouth Massachusetts" width="1000" height="492" />


<h2>4. Fenway Park</h2>
When it comes to baseball, you can't get more serious than a Red Sox fan. The Boston Red Sox have lived at Fenway Park since 1912. Today it is the oldest active running baseball park in the country.

Fenway Park has been the host for the World Series 11 times and has been home to a wide variety of other events.

There is a single red seat in the bleachers in right field, which denotes the longest home run ever hit in the Park. It was made by Ted Williams in 1946 and measured at 502 feet.

Whether you want to find out more about the national sport of baseball, or are hoping to catch an arena show, Fenway Park is a must-visit location.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023827" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_1276985191.jpg" alt="The press box at historic Fenway Park" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Harvard</h2>
Harvard University is the oldest college in America. It was founded in 1636 and has educated eight US presidents, Pulitzer Prize winners, and over a dozen Nobel Laureate winners.

The campus itself covers 209 acres and is known as Harvard Yard. This is home to most of the academic and administrative buildings, libraries, and freshman housing. Many of the buildings on Harvard Yard are also of historic note; there are eleven museums which are open to members of the general public.

You can enjoy a historical tour that leaves daily from the Smith Campus Center or download a map and enjoy a self-guided tour.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023828" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_544602331.jpg" alt="Harvard Memorial Hall, at Harvard University, in Cambridge, Massachusetts" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>6. Old Salem</h2>
Particularly around Halloween, Salem is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. Thanks to its reputation as Witch City, the town puts on over 500 events - from costume parties and parades to séances and ghost tours.

Salem still offers plenty to do the rest of the year, however. Chestnut Street is a beautiful walk and is famous for being the first planned street in America. Many of the houses have plaques which give you more information about the residents and people who built these Federal-style mansions.

The city aims to educate visitors on the troubled past, particularly the events of 1692 and 1693. The Salem Witch Trials led to the execution of 14 women and five men, on the suspicion they were witches.

[caption id="attachment_1023829" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1023829" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/GettyImages-477843265-1-1024x657.jpg" alt="Fort Pickering Light, Salem Massachusetts" width="1024" height="657" /> nayuco / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Cape Cod</h2>
The Cape Cod National Seashore stretches out over 40 miles and is famous for its white sandy beaches and unspoiled oceans. The summer White House of John F Kennedy; Cape Cod has long had a reputation for its small-town charm and delightful weather.

Fans of active travel can enjoy paddleboards, biking, hiking, kayaks, boats, and surfboards. There are over 50 golf courses which are available to visitors. Tourists can also enjoy visiting the world-renowned lighthouses and learning more about the history of the area. Or take in a spot of whale watching in Provincetown, one of the only places you can catch a glimpse of the endangered North Atlantic right whale.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023830" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_10579702.jpg" alt="Barnstable County, Massachusetts" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>8. Boston</h2>
Boston has a little bit of something for everyone. There's over 60 museums, 35 colleges, and a wealth of American history. Stroll Boston Common and take in part of the Freedom Trail. Or head to Faneuil Hall and see what makes it the fourth most visited tourist destination in America.

Art lovers will find that Boston has a truly outstanding collection. From the 450 000 works of art on display at the MFA to the beautiful house which makes up the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Boston is easy to navigate and walk around, from the waterfront to downtown. The city prides itself on being a big city with a small town feel. Boston is as famous for its breweries and distilleries as it is its art galleries, and welcome visitors to tour the sites.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023831" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_647137690.jpg" alt="Boston, Massachusetts, USA skyline" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Bish Bash Falls</h2>
Bish Bash Falls is the highest waterfall in the Taconic Mountains of southwestern Massachusetts. This cascade waterfall is 60 feet long, on the side of the Bish Bash Mountain. A popular hiking destination, it's a steady day trip to the summit. Once you get there, however, enjoy a clear view across the whole of Massachusetts. From Bish Bash Mountain you can explore nearby parks of Mt. Washington State Park, or even cross the border into New York, and visit Taconic State Park.

[caption id="attachment_1022345" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1094034550-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1094034550-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1094034550-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1094034550-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1094034550.jpg 1200w" alt="Bish Bash Falls MA" width="1024" height="683" /> JasonOndreicka / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Norman Rockwell Museum</h2>
In the town of Stockbridge, the Norman Rockwell Museum is a great way to find out more about one of Massachusett's native sons. The museum is home to the largest collection of Rockwell's work in the world.

Also in the museum, you will find the artist's studio, and the supplies he used to make his iconic art. There is also a huge amount of archival material that shows Norman Rockwell as he appeared to his friends and throughout his life.

Stockbridge itself has also been home to many other artists throughout the years. It's possible to walk the city and compare and contrast the artist experience.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1023832" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_657122269-1-1024x685.jpg" alt="Norman Rockwell's Studio is nestled in the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts" width="1024" height="685" />

Unmissable Places to Visit In Massachusetts

Sat beneath Boston, you'll find Cape Cod. With glorious lighthouses and 40 miles of coast, it should come as no surprise that it’s a tourist hotspot. Many American families have spent their summers there, including one of the most historically infamous: the Kennedy’s.

Sat beneath Boston, you'll find Cape Cod. With glorious lighthouses and 40 miles of coast, it should come as no surprise that it’s a tourist hotspot. Many American families have spent their summers there, including one of the most historically infamous: the Kennedy’s. In fact, JFK’s influence is still poignant all around Cape Cod. It’s also buzzing during the summer with activities that carefully hit our nostalgia buttons. But the glory of this New England gem is not its past, but rather the present. After all, there are many memories to make and things to do in Cape Cod.
<h2>1. Go Candlepin Bowling</h2>
Although you might not know it, there’s more than one type of bowling. The one we’re used to with the ten pins and the strikes isn’t the only one. Another is candlepin bowling, and it’s a New England specialty. As well as being fun for all the family, it makes for great entertainment for groups of adult friends, too. The differences between it and regular bowling are also vast. The ball is tiny, you only get three tries, and the pins don’t come back. It’s a challenge, but it’s a fun one. Bonus? You can drink while you play. Cheers to that.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1023620" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/181151012-1024x681.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="681" />


<h2>2. Visit the Marvellous Seashore</h2>
The National Seashore is arguably Cape Cod’s most excellent feature. It’s a nationally protected coastline that spans the 40-mile circumference. Cape Cod has so many beautiful beaches that the hardest part of your vacation might just be choosing where to go. However, there's a way to make the choice simpler. On Cape Cod, there's a “beach” side and an “ocean” side. The ocean side provides a cooler spot and the bay side, the more traditional, warmer beach. Whichever beach you choose is the right choice.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023789" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_549500356.jpg" alt="An early morning sunrise over the ocean in Cape Cod." width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>3. See a Movie at a Retro Drive-In</h2>
Once upon a time, in ye olde Americana, drive-in movie theaters were everywhere. With less than 300 left in the country, the drive-in theater institution is, unfortunately, all but extinct. Still, some drive-ins have held up, and one of these belongs to Cape Cod. The Wellfleet Drive-In has been a Cape Cod fixture since 1957. Maybe it's time to join the ranks of those who have enjoyed their favorite movies under the New England stars?

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023639" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_1101427568.jpg" alt="Blank drive-in movie screen;" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>4. Indulge in Delicious Ice Cream</h2>
Being a kid and taking vacations always meant one thing: Ice cream. Cape Cod has a wide selection of old school ice cream parlors and stands. There’s nothing like the smell of freshly made waffle cones, melting sugar or the feel of melting ice cream dripping down to your wrists. On top of that, there are hundreds of flavors to try. After all, Ben and Jerry even opened their first shop a 5-hour drive away in Vermont. New England might as well be the ice cream capital of the world.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023640" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_1016627935.jpg" alt="riendly's family restaurant, ice cream dessert - Saugus, Massachusetts" width="1000" height="725" />


<h2>5. Take a Day Trip to Martha’s Vineyard</h2>
Martha's Vineyard is an island just south of Cape Cod. It's so close that a lot of people staying in Cape Cod choose to have a day trip there. Martha's Vineyard is a great place for cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers. Full of lighthouses, beaches, and greenery, Martha's Vineyard is full of surprises. Including an antique Coney Island carousel.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023641" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_624858491.jpg" alt="Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>6. Hop on a Boat and Go Whale-Watching</h2>
Did you know you can go whale watching in Cape Cod? For many, it's even the ultimate US destination from which to do it. Cape Cod has a high population of all kinds of whales including humpback whales, that are still on the endangered species list. On a whale watching tour you'll have a chance to see orcas, seals, turtles, dolphins, and if you're lucky, the Gloucester sea serpent. See? Even whales like Cape Cod.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1023788" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/shutterstock_561255781.jpg" alt="A group a whale watchers catches sight of a humpback whale descending into the depths off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. Stroll Around the Heritage Museum &amp; Gardens</h2>
Cape Cod has several museums, but its gem is the Heritage Museum and its surrounding gardens. Set in what used to be the Heritage Plantation of Sandwich, the stunning grounds are the largest public gardens in New England. This is a must-see for all nature and history lovers, with acres of trails and galleries to explore. You might even want to carve out a whole day for it, as there's almost too much to do there.

[caption id="attachment_1023626" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/156762378-1024x680.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/156762378-1024x680.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/156762378-300x199.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/156762378-768x510.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/156762378.jpg 1200w" alt="windmill in cape cod" width="1024" height="680" /> KenWiedemann / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Tour a Historical Lighthouse</h2>
Cape Cod ought to be synonymous with lighthouses. As well as its massive stretch of sandy beaches, there are also more than 20 lighthouses. Visiting them can mean so much more than just seeing what they look like, too. There are miles of peaceful walks and the view from those you can get to the top of is guaranteed to steal your heart. There are also lighthouses you don't want to miss. At the very least, visit the iconic Nauset Light in Eastham or the Race Point Light at the northernmost tip of the Cape.

[caption id="attachment_1023627" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/611880116-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/611880116-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/611880116-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/611880116-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/611880116.jpg 1200w" alt="nauset lighthouse sunset" width="1024" height="683" /> mirceax / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Catch the View from the Pilgrim Monument</h2>
The Pilgrim Monument is the first recognizable thing most people see when arriving at Cape Cod. Standing 252 feet, the monument is the tallest granite structure in the United States. It marks the site on which the pilgrims first landed in, way back in the 1600s. The monument itself was built in 1907 and since then, has seen thousands of visitors. There's also a museum inside of the monument which focuses on the story of the Mayflower and the maritime history of Cape Cod.

[caption id="attachment_1023628" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/473498338-1024x681.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/473498338-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/473498338-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/473498338-768x511.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/473498338.jpg 1200w" alt="pilgrim monument provincetown" width="1024" height="681" /> haveseen / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. See JFK’s Cape Cod</h2>
Late President John F. Kennedy and his family are Cape Cod’s most infamous residents. JFK loved Cape Cod, and he and his family spent many summers on its beaches. We recommend putting aside a day to explore the Kennedy Cape Cod, centered in Hyannis, where the Kennedy Family Compound also stands. Hyannis has a museum dedicated to the late president, the church that the family attended, and the streets that they walked. JFK also quoted something that Cape Cod locals say: "a rising tide lifts all the boats." We'd say he did the same for us.

[caption id="attachment_1023629" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/517199159-1024x680.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/517199159-1024x680.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/517199159-300x199.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/517199159-768x510.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/517199159.jpg 1200w" alt="Hyannis Harborside Homes" width="1024" height="680" /> KenWiedemann / Getty Images[/caption]

Exciting Things to Do in Cape Cod

Boston truly is a walking city. This might be due to the sparsity of parking spots, but once you understand this, Boston and its vast trove of historical sites will be your oyster. These tourist attractions in Boston and Cambridge highlight just some of the many excellent spots to visit in Beantown.

tourist attractions in Boston and Cambridge

Boston truly is a walking city. This might be due to the sparsity of parking spots, but once you understand this, Boston and its vast trove of historical sites will be your oyster. These tourist attractions in Boston and Cambridge highlight just some of the many excellent spots to visit in Beantown.
<h2>1. Take in Some Shakespeare</h2>
Come summertime, the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company puts on a two-week production of selected works from the great bard. It's free, it's fun, and it's popular -- bring a chair and get there early, as all of Boston is on its way.

[caption id="attachment_3023" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-3023" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/GettyImages-1133017-1.jpg" alt="William B. Plowman / Getty Images" width="1000" height="652" /> William B. Plowman / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Visit Fenway</h2>
Boston is brilliant, and baseball is America's national past time. Catching a game at Fenway Park is a pricey affair, but the grounds are largely open to the public, and it's worth the tour. Your guide will detail the stories of Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, The Green Monster, and more as you explore this building that is the heart of Boston. Did you know it opened the year the Titanic sank (1912)?

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3024" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_370318571-1.jpg" alt="shutterstock_370318571 (1)" width="1000" height="667" />

<h2>3. Stroll Harvard</h2>
If you have kids, this is a must-do. The grounds of America's oldest university are stunning, and Harvard Yard is home to the popular Memorial Church, the Peabody and Sackler Art museums, or ensure you see all there is to see by taking a Crimson Key tour.

[caption id="attachment_3025" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-3025" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/GettyImages-131543883-1.jpg" alt="jorgeantonio / Getty Images" width="1000" height="688" /> jorgeantonio / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. The Gardner Museum</h2>
The Gardner Museum has an absolute wealth of Italian art, old books, and more on display. Its real charm, however, lies in the fact that you're sharing floor space with the thieves who pulled off the two biggest unsolved art heists in modern history.

[caption id="attachment_3026" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-3026" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/GettyImages-164356147-1.jpg" alt="Paul Marotta / Getty Images" width="1000" height="665" /> Paul Marotta / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. The Freedom Trail</h2>
Few cities exhibit their history in the manner that Boston does. From the death of Crispus Attucks at the Boston Massacre to the Boston Tea Party, the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail will take you on a tour of the birth of the United States like no other.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3027" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_554353942.jpg" alt="shutterstock_554353942" width="1000" height="667" />

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<h2>6. Observation Deck at Independence Wharf</h2>
Boston's rooftops and observation sites are a dying breed. That said, this semi-hidden observation deck lets you gaze down upon this fine city and its residents. This is the city that launched a revolution, and much of it is on display from this 14-floor vantage point that puts a few things in perspective.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3028" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_1029787930-1.jpg" alt="shutterstock_1029787930 (1)" width="1000" height="667" />

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<h2>7. Take a Free Tour of Boston Public Library</h2>
Boston Public Library is one of the oldest, opening in 1895, and is home to more than 21 million manuscripts and more. The free tour that runs every Monday to Saturday is worth every minute. The history surrounding this phenomenal building makes it well worth the trip.

[caption id="attachment_3029" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-3029" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/GettyImages-519457497-1.jpg" alt="gregobagel / Getty Images" width="1000" height="666" /> gregobagel / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Don't Forget the Oysters</h2>
One-dollar oysters abound in Boston around happy hour. Whether you pop into The Red House, Bastille Kitchen, the Boston Public Market, La Brasa, or another great establishment, you won't want to miss a big plate of this succulent sealife.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3030" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_1159039084-1.jpg" alt="shutterstock_1159039084 (1)" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Grab a Slice</h2>
Boston has its own version of the classic pie, featuring a cornmeal crust and a combination of cheeses. The city has many notable pizzerias, including Armando's, Ernesto's, and Posto.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3032" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_736222348-1.jpg" alt="shutterstock_736222348 (1)" width="1000" height="666" />


<h2>10. Check Out the Arnold Arboretum</h2>
The Arnold Arboretum takes visitors on a truly majestic tour of the city's natural offerings. In the springtime, the Arboretum hosts the largest blooming lilac garden in the world -- an absolute treat to the olfactory senses. The rest of the year, the space remains a lovely break from the quick pace of the rest of the city.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3033" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_405319834-1.jpg" alt="shutterstock_405319834 (1)" width="1000" height="645" />

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston and Cambridge

A short ferry ride from Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard is a special kind of island. Home to celebrities living alongside die-hard island folk, this area is preserved for its stunning natural beauty.

A short ferry ride from Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard is a special kind of island. Dotted with charming small towns like Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, and Aquinnah, the island is famous for its gourmet farm-to-table cuisine, natural beauty, and beach culture. It's a great weekend getaway for relaxing and chilling by the sea. And for those days when just reading a paperback on the beach makes you antsy, you'll never want for more active things to do in Martha's Vineyard.
<h2>1. Follow Jaws to Menemsha</h2>
A small fishing village within the town of Chilmark, Menemsha is best known as the principal location for Steven Spielberg's iconic film <em>Jaws</em>. Movie buffs can soak up the atmosphere while re-living scenes of the shark thriller. Everyone else can chow down on fresh-caught seafood at a choice of wharf-side restaurants. As you head out of town, be sure to climb the bluffs at Menemsha Hills for spectacular views across Vineyard Sound. The area is part of a protected nature reserve most suitable for sunset picnics.

[caption id="attachment_34634" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/144342112.jpg" alt="Fishing shacks near the pier in Menemsha village." width="1200" height="900" /> Sarahskennedy / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Catch a flick at the Capawock Theater</h2>
Vineyard Haven is home to the oldest working cinema in Massachusetts. The Capawock Theater was built in 1913 and restored extensively in 2015. The cinema regularly runs limited arthouse films and rep classics programmed by the Martha Vineyard's Film Society. Every summer they host a week-long, Jaws-inspired shark-themed film festival as well as weekly screenings of the Spielberg classic.

[caption id="attachment_34635" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/638174236.jpg" alt="Ferry pulling into Vineyard Haven, Martha's Vineyard." width="1200" height="900" /> Jeremy_Driesen / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Ride the carousel</h2>
The Flying Horses Carousel in the town of Oak Bluffs is the oldest working merry-go-round in the US. It became an attraction at Coney Island in 1876 but moved to its current position in 1884, where it has been delighting visitors and hosting children's birthday parties ever since. The workmanship on the painted horses and the carousel's historic hand-painted background panels make them a fine frame for your Instagram photos.

[caption id="attachment_34636" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/157679055.jpg" alt="Antique carousel in Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard." width="1200" height="800" /> whitemay / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Sunset at Aquinnah</h2>
Located on the western tip of the island, the multi-colored cliffs of Aquinnah overlook the ocean and a public beach far below. The elevation creates grand vistas over the water, which is particularly entrancing as the sun goes down. A protected National Historic Landmark, the area is the ancestral home of the Wampanoag first nation. During the summer, check for bike and bus tours leaving from towns on the eastern side of the island.

[caption id="attachment_34645" align="alignnone" width="2122"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34645" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/GettyImages-166281906.jpg" alt="Gay Head Light and Aquinnah Cliffs at Martha's Vineyard " width="2122" height="1412" /> <br />Rolf_52 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Grab a drink in Edgartown</h2>
Many of the towns in Martha's Vineyard are "dry" and have been since Prohibition times. Not Edgartown, which picks up the slack with a vigorous restaurant and bar scene. The town itself is also worth exploring as it features galleries, museums, and some interesting architecture, including the island's oldest home, Vincent House on Main Street.

[caption id="attachment_34646" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34646" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/GettyImages-524647159.jpg" alt="View of Edgartown" width="2121" height="1414" /> <br />Maremagnum / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Ride a bike on Chappaquiddick Island</h2>
Notorious for its connection to the ill-starred Kennedy dynasty, Chappaquiddick is a small island that sometimes turns into a peninsula. When there's water the two-minute Chappy Ferry brooks the distance, and periodic low tides allow for biking across the flats from Edgartown. Once there, beaches, pine forests, and enclaves of expensive cottages beg for exploration. Don't miss the exquisitely groomed Mytoi Japanese Garden.

[caption id="attachment_34639" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/116438328.jpg" alt="Riding a bike on Chappaquiddick Island, Martha's Vineyard." width="1200" height="800" /> 1Photodiva / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Visit The Campground at Oak Bluff</h2>
One of the quirkiest and most photogenic sites in Martha's Vineyard is a collection of Victorian gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs. Built by the island's Methodist community, The Campground—as it's known locally—is now privately occupied. You can get a sense of the interiors at the Cottage Museum, or simply enjoy the charming candy-colored exteriors. Watch for The Grand Illumination in August, when each porch is hung with Japanese lanterns.

[caption id="attachment_34640" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/636593286.jpg" alt="Victorian era gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard." width="1200" height="797" /> lightningboldt / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Go on an edible adventure with Farm.Field.Sea</h2>
The farm to table culinary ethos is big all over Martha's Vineyard. One way to enjoy excellent cuisine made with island-grown products is by booking a tour with Farm.Field.Sea, based in Vineyard Haven. The company hosts seasonal pop-up dinners with local farmers, chefs, and fisherfolk. Many of the dinners are huge alfresco affairs, with everyone sitting communally around harvest tables and soaking up the fresh sea breezes.

[caption id="attachment_34641" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/1056171928.jpg" alt="Farm to table dining with Farm.Field.Sea in Martha's Vineyard." width="1200" height="800" /> LumiNola / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Bird-watch at Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary</h2>
Martha's Vineyard has a huge amount of protected natural landscape. Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary near Edgartown is 194 acres of marshes, beaches, and woodlands that are home to many native species of plant and animal. Four miles of groomed trails make it easy to hike this birdwatcher's paradise. For those who worry about rough seas, there are also kayaking facilities on idyllic and calm Sengekontacket Pond.

[caption id="attachment_34642" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/1080216210.jpg" alt="Bird-watching at Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary near Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard." width="1200" height="625" /> Cecilie_Arcurs / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Visit Morning Glory Farm</h2>
Once upon a time, Martha's Vineyard was largely rural and agricultural. There are still surprisingly numerous farmsteads and small-batch fisheries in operation on the island. One of the most charming is Morning Glory Farm, just outside of Edgartown. The 50-year old organic farm produces fruits, vegetables, flowers, and livestock in accordance with traditional agricultural values. Stock up at their on-site market and bakery, or sign up for one of their educational Field Trip tours.

[caption id="attachment_34647" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34647" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/GettyImages-539114014.jpg" alt=" Senior adult, male farmer harvests organic vegetables." width="2121" height="1414" /> <br />fstop123 / Getty Images[/caption]

Plan Your Getaway to Martha's Vineyard

Salem is a city rich with history, otherworldly entertainment, spectacular shopping, and enviable dining and nightlife options.

The Salem Witch Trials might still haunt the old seaside town of Salem, Massachusetts, but the so-called “Witch City” is so much more than just witches. It’s a city rich with history, otherworldly entertainment, spectacular shopping, and excellent dining and nightlife options. With quaint cobblestone streets bumping against quirky old buildings, Salem casts a spell on its visitors with a surprise around every corner. Best of all, it’s walkable. No matter what you squeeze into your visit, the opportunities to have a wicked good time are truly endless.
<h2>1. Get spooked at the Salem Witch Museum</h2>
Most locals would agree that no first-timer’s visit to The Witch City is complete without a spell in the Salem Witch Museum. From stage sets to tours exploring the 1692 Salem Witch Trials that put Salem on the map worldwide, you will learn a lot about the city, including a bit about witchcraft in the modern era. Sure, the special effects might be a little dated—the booming voiceover during the presentation is Vincent Price’s voice on tape—but that’s all part of its enduring allure.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34539" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/shutterstock_1630222612.jpg" alt="Salem witch museum, the most popular witches American city famous by its history, Salem, Mass, USA" width="1000" height="750" />


<h2>2. Snap a selfie with Samantha</h2>
Even if you aren’t a fan of the iconic 1960s TV series <i>Bewitched</i>, you’re probably familiar with the star of the show: a blonde witch named Samantha, played by Elizabeth Montgomery. The bronze statue erected in her honor sits smack dab in the middle of downtown Salem, surrounded by the cities’ cafes, bars, quirky shops, and restaurants.

[caption id="attachment_34540" align="alignnone" width="2848"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34540" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/Bewitched_Statue_Salem_USA.jpg" alt="" width="2848" height="2136" /> CivArmy / Wikipedia Commons[/caption]


<h2>3. The Satanic Temple</h2>
From the outside, this tourist attraction is a modest little house with a hanging shingle for a sign. Can't it be too scary, right? Well, looks can be deceiving, especially when the little hanging sign says "The Satanic Temple." Part of the Salem Art Gallery, visitors can step inside the Satanic Temple for a look at a dark underworld of art that few every day people have ever seen. Visit the Satanic Temple and prepare to be impressed, moved, and maybe just a little bit uncomfortable.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDG72Ynh-UV/" caption="thesatanictemple" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/thesatanictemple/"]


<h2>3. Find "The Friendship" at Pickering Wharf</h2>
If you make your way to the picturesque harbor off Congress Street, you’ll come upon an imposing 171-foot replica of the type of merchant ship that made Salem a global leader in the spice trade of the 18th century. Although it usually operates as a permanent museum, the boat is a fully functioning US Coast Guard-certified vessel that makes special sailings at various times of the year. After you’ve marveled at this maritime wonder, walk down the rocky causeway to the historic Derby Wharf lighthouse, which has been sending off signals since 1871.

[caption id="attachment_34535" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/187162910.jpg" alt="Pickering Wharf" width="1200" height="800" /> DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Peabody Essex Museum (PEM)</h2>
Hailing as the longest continuously running museum in the country, the Peabody Essex Museum combined two of Salem's institutions (East India Marine Society and Essex Institute) to create a high caliber museum with small-town accessibility. But don't let the location of this museum be misleading. PEM is far more than another witch museum. Whether popping in for an hour or meandering through exhibits for an entire day, PEM has something for witch and non-witch enthusiasts alike.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-93Op8A5Cs/" caption="destsalem" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/destsalem/"]


<h2>4. Tour The House of the Seven Gables</h2>
This historic homestead from 1668 was made famous by Salem-born author Nathaniel Hawthorne in his 1851 novel, <i>The House of the Seven Gables</i>. The house got its name from—you guessed it—its seven gables. Now a museum and a designated National Historic Landmark District, The House of the Seven Gables has long been one of Salem’s essential stops.

[caption id="attachment_34541" align="alignnone" width="799"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34541" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/3031428608_eecb419104_c.jpg" alt="The House of the Seven Gables in Salem, MA." width="799" height="571" /> Mr.TinDC / Flickr[/caption]


<h2>5. Beat the high scores at Salem Willows Arcade</h2>
Nicknamed “The Willows” by residents, this picturesque harborside park is a sharp contrast to its famous old-school amusement park. The arcade is packed with vintage games that have been plugged into their respective wall sockets since the 1980s and 1990s, giving it a nostalgic vibe with just the right amount of creepiness. There’s also a mini-golf course, a few rides, and yes, all the greasy food you can gorge yourself on. Be sure to try the world-famous chop suey sandwich, which is exactly what it sounds like.

[caption id="attachment_34542" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34542" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/GettyImages-1125654609.jpg" alt="Young couple are walking to the dodgems at a funfair with their arms round each other." width="2121" height="1414" /> SolStock / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Misery Islands</h2>
Don't let the name fool you. Although a visit by Captain Robert Moulton in the 1620s was less than enjoyable, this destination is anything but depressing. The island, only accessible by boat, has 2 1/2 miles of trails and limitless land to explore. Guided tours, concerts, and even yoga are offered all year. Or for those not following a clock, just pack a picnic, paddle on over, and take a nap in a field. Sorry, Captain Moulton, life isn't so miserable on the Misery Islands anymore!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-40335" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/11/shutterstock_352900124.jpg" alt="Decayed Pier, West Beach Beverly, Massachusetts, USA" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>6. Ride a bike to Winter Island</h2>
Avoid Salem’s traffic and confusing one-way streets by renting a bike instead of driving. Pedal your way out to Winter Island, which is not actually an island but a peninsula that juts into Salem Harbor. There, you can walk out to the lighthouse, relax on one of the three beaches, have a picnic, rent a boat, and even go camping. Be sure to check out the spooky abandoned airport hangar and dilapidated army barracks while you’re there.

[caption id="attachment_34543" align="alignnone" width="2117"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34543" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/GettyImages-505233011.jpg" alt="Fort Pickering Lighthouse Salem Massachusetts Sunrise" width="2117" height="1416" /> <br />JuliScalzi / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Hocus Pocus Tours</h2>
Wear comfortable shoes because this tour is ninety minutes of walking but will feel like it's over in a flash or the wave of a wand. The Hocus Pocus guide will delve into the fascinating, if not terrifying, history of Salem. Walk on the same ground where real people were tried, executed, and buried in the name of Puritanism. The best part of the 90 minutes is that even though the tour may be all true Salem history, it's also a haunted adventure. Only the brave need attend!

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/B47fbJzgbUP/" caption="smileychele" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/smileychele/"]


<h2>7. Wander through the Witch Trials Memorial</h2>
When you visit the Old Burying Point on Charter Street, you'll see some of the oldest graves in the country nestled amongst craggy old trees that look straight out of a horror movie. The Witch Trials Memorial is tucked in beside the cemetery, behind a low stone wall. It’s so understated you could easily overlook it if you didn’t know it was there. There, you can pay your respects to the victims of the witch trial victims, each of which has their name and cause of execution etched onto individual stone slabs.

[caption id="attachment_34536" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/498787765.jpg" alt="Witch Trials Memorial, Salem" width="1200" height="801" /> alohadave / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Satisfy your sweet tooth in America’s oldest candy shop</h2>
Open since 1806, Ye Olde Pepper Companie on Derby Street is the oldest commercial candy store in the country. Every piece of candy is still made fresh and in-house, using the shop’s original 19th-century recipes. Spoiled for choice and stuck on which sweet to savor first? Try some Salem Gibraltar, which was invented by the shop’s original owner, a shipwreck survivor named Mrs. Spencer.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34544" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/shutterstock_1392399512.jpg" alt="Salem, Massachusetts, USA. 10/27/2015. America's Oldest Candy Co. since 1806" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Have dinner and drinks at the historic Hawthorne Hotel</h2>
Just off Salem Common, you’ll find the century-old Hawthorne Hotel, named for Salem’s own Nathaniel Hawthorne. Within this elegantly restored landmark is a cozy dining room called Tavern on the Green, with wood walls and an enormous wood-burning fireplace that keeps the New England chill at bay. The menu offers fresh seafood and traditional pub food, and when you get thirsty you can enjoy draft beer and an award-winning cocktail or two at the bar.

[caption id="attachment_34545" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34545" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/GettyImages-554456229.jpg" alt="" width="2121" height="1414" /> <br />Jon Lovette / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Go on a ghost tour after dark</h2>
While there are plenty of daytime walking tours of The Witch City, it’s safe to say the most thrilling ones happen after dark. There are countless options for ghost tours of any imaginable variety, especially as the Halloween season draws near. All of them are ghoulishly entertaining, yet educational at the same time. Hey, it’s just Salem doing what Salem does best.

[caption id="attachment_34546" align="alignnone" width="2048"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34546" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/GettyImages-172191536.jpg" alt="Skull engraved on tombstone in Salem MA" width="2048" height="1536" /> <br />jsmith / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>15. Witch Dungeon Museum</h2>
Visitors to Salem are usually looking to be immersed in all things Witch Trials, and a visit to the Witch Dungeon Museum will not disappoint. Enter the museum and expect to be engulfed in the mayhem that ultimately resulted in the trials and executions of 20 people found guilty of doing the Devil's magic. This isn't an exhibit. This is a live re-enactment of real events based on actual historical manuscripts. After visitors live through the emotions of all involved, they can tour the dungeon itself. This is the most realistic portrayal of the events that made Salem famous.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/BwTEkctAQ9Z/" caption="mad_clockmaker" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/mad_clockmaker/"]

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