Attractions
Massachusetts attractions cover a huge range of activities
From the Berkshire Hills to Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts’ attractions are second to none. Cities, towns, and villages have historic pedigrees. America started here with the landing of the Pilgrims in Plymouth, and burst forward with the “shot heard ‘round the world” in Concord, MA. Championship sports teams, outdoor recreation, fairs and festivals, zoos, and parks abound. Lodgings cover every preference, from the causal to the luxurious. Some of the world’s finest art, music, and theater are here, along with ships and ship museums and the homes of three American presidents. There are islands and great marketplaces to explore and the Basketball Hall of Fame to dribble by.
Follow these links for : Sightseeing - Amusement Parks - Great Things To Do
18 places to visit
Southwick’s Zoo
Animals – and rides – make for a great combination at Southwick’s Zoo
2 Southwick Street Mendon, MA 01756 800-258-9182 Combine the thrill of attractions and the excitement of adventure at New England’s Largest Zoo…Southwick’s Zoo! Soar above the African Plains and Deer Forest in the Skyfari Sky Ride or take the Woodland Express Train through the North American Exhibit to get a closer look at elk and trumpeter swans. Work your way through the Rainforest Adventure Maze and zip through the air on the Soaring Eagle Zip Line.
Whether observing the majestic African Lions, exploring the North American Exhibit on a trip aboard the Woodland Express Train, or learning about conservation efforts for endangered species at the EARTH Discovery Center, a trip to Southwick’s Zoo is an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Whether observing the majestic African Lions, exploring the North American Exhibit on a trip aboard the Woodland Express Train, or learning about conservation efforts for endangered species at the EARTH Discovery Center, a trip to Southwick’s Zoo is an unforgettable experience for everyone.
See Plymouth
In walkable Plymouth, you can enjoy several activities, fun attractions, every day
4 North Street Plymouth, MA 02360 508-747-0100 Check out some more great things to do while visiting Plymouth County, MA!
History tops the list of attractions in Plymouth, of course! There’s the magnificent Mayflower II, Plymouth Rock, the Pilgrim Hall Museum, and the replica English village and Wampanoag Homesite at the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. But that’s just the beginning: There’s also whale-watching, pirate and harbor cruises, ghost tours, great beaches, parks with extensive hiking and biking trails, sea kayaking and lots of special events, from arts festivals to Thanksgiving and Fourth of July celebrations. Lodging is plentiful (many hotels have pools; one has a water park), and there is every kind of dining you can imagine. In the winter, there’s ice skating, cross-country skiing in nearby parks. So many fun activities are within walking distance of each other, you can enjoy several in a single day.
History tops the list of attractions in Plymouth, of course! There’s the magnificent Mayflower II, Plymouth Rock, the Pilgrim Hall Museum, and the replica English village and Wampanoag Homesite at the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. But that’s just the beginning: There’s also whale-watching, pirate and harbor cruises, ghost tours, great beaches, parks with extensive hiking and biking trails, sea kayaking and lots of special events, from arts festivals to Thanksgiving and Fourth of July celebrations. Lodging is plentiful (many hotels have pools; one has a water park), and there is every kind of dining you can imagine. In the winter, there’s ice skating, cross-country skiing in nearby parks. So many fun activities are within walking distance of each other, you can enjoy several in a single day.
Plimoth Patuxet Museums
Experience the Past at the Best Open-Air Museum in New England’s Oldest Town!
137 Warren Avenue Plymouth, MA 02360 508-746-1622 Explore the Historic Patuxet Homesite and discover the history and heritage of the Indigenous People who have lived here since time immemorial. Step inside a wetu, see the making of a mishoon, and visit the cooking arbor where traditional foods are prepared over the fire. In the 17th-Century English Village, watch Plymouth Colony come to life as you traverse the early Pilgrim settlement and interact with historical performers portraying real residents. Downtown, climb aboard national treasure, Mayflower II, and hear stories about the 1620 transatlantic journey of the Pilgrims. Visit the Plimoth Grist Mill to discover the importance of corn in the 17th century and today. Named the Best Open-Air Museum in the USA in 2024, 2025, and 2026 by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
Old Sturbridge Village
Travel into the 19th century at this re-created New England village, with a variety of hands-on activities
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, off Route 20 Sturbridge, MA 01566 508-347-3362 Have you ever wanted to time travel into the past? Old Sturbridge Village can make that a reality when you visit the historical homes, shops, farms and other buildings on its 200-plus acres in Sturbridge, MA. You’ll feel you are in a typical New England town of the 1830s when you see pottery, barrels and cabinets being made on-site, walk through the old schoolhouse (with graffiti from students on its original desks), ride in a horse-drawn wagon or help out at the print shop or sawmill. Costumed historians are happy to answer questions about everything from cooking on the hearth to minding pigs and other heritage-breed animals. There are nature trails, gorgeous gardens, live performances, special exhibitions and activities (check the website) and a welcoming tavern and cafe.
Worcester Art Museum
Visitors to magnificent art museum transcend time through its collections, interactive features
55 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA 01609 508-799-4406Connect with global stories in the heart of Commonwealth. Discover ancient mosaics, medieval arms and armor, contemporary paintings, and sculptures at the Worcester Art museum. Explore galleries featuring Asian, European, and American art, as well special exhibitions featuring local New England artists. Compare ancient artifacts and early American antiques, master works and folk art, and more in the Museum’s encyclopedic collection.
Looking to dive deeper? Develop your own skills and expand your creativity in studio art classes. Find creative and hands-on activities for all ages across the Museum’s many galleries. And relax in the courtyard or enjoy lunch at the café surrounded by art.
Free admission for Members, children 17 and under, and students at participating College Partner schools.
Island Queen
For a perfect seaside vacation, start with a scenic ferry ride from Cape to Vineyard
75 Falmouth Heights Road Falmouth, MA 02540 508-548-4800 Your seaside vacation should start with the sea! Book a trip aboard the Island Queen, the passenger ferry from Falmouth to Oak Bluffs, MA on the fabled island of Martha’s Vineyard, and enjoy the 35-minute trip across sparkling Vineyard Sound from one of the Cape’s most charming resort towns to one of the Vineyard’s most scenic. There’s a picture-window observation deck and comfortable rowed seating on the open decks, a snack bar and restrooms. Park 200 yards from the dock in Falmouth; car and bike rentals and cabs are a short walk from the Oak Bluffs dock. Attractions in Falmouth include the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, beautiful beaches and a scenic bikeway. In Oak Bluffs, there’s the famous Flying Horses carousel and the colorful Gingerbread Cottages in the Campground.
Arlington Historical Society
Step Into Revolutionary History at One of Massachusetts’ Most Fascinating Museums
7 Jason Street, Arlington, MA 02476 781-648-4300The Arlington Historical Society: Jason Russell House & Museum, established in 1897, is one of Arlington's most compelling stops along any Massachusetts itinerary. Rooted in the events of April 19, 1775 — when the Battle of Lexington, Concord & Menotomy reached its most intense point right here — the site offers guided tours, rotating exhibitions, and a yearly lecture series that keeps local history in active conversation. Next door, the Smith Museum holds an impressive collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and Arlington memorabilia that rounds out the experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime history enthusiast, there's always something new to discover.
Hammond Castle Museum
A Castle, A Legacy, An Experience Unlike Any Other
80 Hesperus Avenue Gloucester, MA 01930 978-283-2080 Hammond Castle Museum offers an unforgettable coastal experience along Gloucester’s rocky Atlantic shoreline. Built by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., the medieval-style castle blends history, architecture, innovation, and oceanfront scenery into a one-of-a-kind STEAM-inspired museum destination. Recognized among the top 10% of attractions worldwide through TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards and honored as a Best of North Shore destination, the museum features guided and self-guided tours, seasonal events, live music, family programming, and exhibits connecting invention and history. Children ages four and under receive free admission with reserved tickets. Open daily through January 3rd. Advance reservations strongly encouraged.
Crab Apple Whitewater (MA)
Family-Owned Whitewater Rafting on Massachusetts’ Scenic Rivers
2056 Mohawk Trail Charlemont, MA 01339 800-553-7238 Family-owned since 1983, Crab Apple Whitewater brings three generations of expertise to the banks of the Deerfield and Millers Rivers. Choose from full-day or half-day trips on dam-controlled rapids ranging from gentle Class I–III to thrilling Class III–IV whitewater. Kids as young as 5 can join in on Funyak inflatable kayaks, complete with giant squirt guns. Knowledgeable guides share stories of local history, wildlife, and hydrology along the way. Back at base camp along the historic Mohawk Trail, enjoy changing rooms, a snack bar, paddle board rentals, and a riverside patio.
Pilgrim Hall Museum
Plymouth museum celebrates history of Pilgrims and of the Wampanoag people
75 Court Street Plymouth, MA 02360 508-746-1620 Right in the heart of historic, exciting Plymouth, the Pilgrim Hall Museum tells the story of the Pilgrims and of the region’s indigenous Wampanoag people with an unmatched collection of artifacts and exhibitions. The collections in the nation’s oldest continuously operating public museum (the Pilgrim Society opened it in 1824) includes William Bradford’s Bible, Peregrine White’s cradle, Myles Standish’s sword and a sampler embroidered by his daughter. Visitors can sit in a replica Great Chair like that used by spiritual leader William Brewster or make a rubbing of a copy of Josiah Winslow’s gravestone. There’s a 15-minute orientation film and a browsing-worthy gift shop. The museum also features changing, temporary exhibits and a free speaker series on a variety of history-related topics.
Colony Place
The largest outdoor shopping and entertainment center in the region
174 Colony Place Plymouth, MA 02360 508-746-7663 An exceptionally designed lifestyle destination for the entire family, Colony Place has more of what you want. And all in one place. With special events, specialty retail, restaurants, home furnishings, services, electronics and even groceries. Colony Place is located ½ way between Boston and Cape Cod just off Route 3.
Download the free app to enjoy great savings at over 25 stores and restaurants every time you shop or dine.
Download the free app to enjoy great savings at over 25 stores and restaurants every time you shop or dine.
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
1000 Hall of Fame Avenue Springfield, MA 877-446-6752 The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is home to more than 300 inductees and more than 40,000 square feet of basketball history. Hundreds of interactive exhibits share the spotlight with skills challenges, live clinics, and shooting contests. Basketball fans will find exhibits, interactive kiosks, memorabilia, and hands-on activities. Children and adults can spend the day in the 80,000-square-foot facility shooting baskets on a regulation court, measuring their skills against sports legends in an interactive game. Kids are invited to coaches’ clinics on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Hours vary by season
Boston Harbor Islands National Park Area
Islands in Boston Harbor, and easy ferry ride from downtown. Swimming, hiking, picnicking. A fun day trip
191w Atlantic Avenue Boston, MA 02109 617-223-8666 Let yourself slip back in time with guided lighthouse tours (June-October) and ranger-narrated Discovery and Sunset Cruises (summer). There are also frequent special events and activities held on some islands for people of all ages. Sail the waters that conceal old shipwrecks and histories of war, pirates, and spooks! Click the ticket link below this listing for ferry tickets & schedule information.
Springfield Museums & Dr Seuss Nat’l Memorial Sculpture Garden
21 Edwards Street Springfield, MA 01103 413-263-6800 The Springfield Museums consists of five institutions at one location: the D'Amour Museum of Fine Arts, the Smith Art Museum, the Springfield Science Museum, the Connecticut Valley Historical Museum and the Museum of Springfield History. In addition, the property includes the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, with life-size statues of Springfield native Dr. Seuss and his favorite characters including Horton, the Grinch and the Lorax.
IN the five art, science and historical museums, guests can find Samurai armor and weaponry; an internationally-acclaimed collection of Oriental bronze, jade and porcelain; intricate Middle Eastern rugs; fine American and European paintings and sculpture; a savannah of animals in the R.E. Phelon African Hall; Dinosaur Hall with its towering Tyrannosaurus Rex; Astronomy Hall complete with a planetarium; and exhibits about Connecticut River Valley history. Curriculum-based tours and programs are available.
IN the five art, science and historical museums, guests can find Samurai armor and weaponry; an internationally-acclaimed collection of Oriental bronze, jade and porcelain; intricate Middle Eastern rugs; fine American and European paintings and sculpture; a savannah of animals in the R.E. Phelon African Hall; Dinosaur Hall with its towering Tyrannosaurus Rex; Astronomy Hall complete with a planetarium; and exhibits about Connecticut River Valley history. Curriculum-based tours and programs are available.
Rockport Chamber of Commerce
Fall in love with Rockport
22 Broadway Rockport, MA 01966 978-546-6575 Rockport, Massachusetts is a charming seaside village on Cape Ann; an hour North of Boston by car or train. This historic Art Colony is home to a number of internationally acclaimed artists and photographers along with their galleries. Rockport also offers numerous unique shops, restaurants, and accommodations, and boasts a magnificent rocky coastline. It is known for fresh seafood and world-renowned "Motif #1". Rockport further delights with its seven beaches, a state park, coastal walks, bird and whale watching, kayaking, scenic day and evening sailing tours, golf, diving and a number of historical attractions. Rockport harbor is listed as one of the top 10 most scenic places in the country by Walt Disney Productions. Come visit scenic Rockport, you'll be glad you did!
Cape Cod National Seashore
Various Locations Chatham to Provincetown, MA 508-255-3421 This national park offers a full summer’s worth of fun for people of all ages. Six ocean beaches (lifeguarded) offer play in the surf; there are many walking and biking paths through inlands dunes, woodlands, and around cranberry bogs and small freshwater “kettle” ponds. Explore the first lighthouses in the country (commissioned by President George Washington). Historic sites, like the place where the first trans-Atlantic telegraph was sent.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston
598 Assembly Row Somerville, MA 02145 617-702-5593 Designed for families with a spacious family restroom, full baby changing facilities, plus wheelchair and stroller accessibility throughout, the Discovery Center is a great place to spend a day and help your child learn new building skills in a most magical atmosphere. With 2 rides, 10 LEGO build and play zones and workshops by the Master Model Builder, you’ll have plenty to enjoy and bring home with you. Plan a LEGO themed birthday party, a one-of-a-kind school trip, and get group pricing on tickets. Relax in the coffee shop and purchase all your favorite LEGO products in the amazing retail shop.
Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology
At Harvard University - 11 Divinity Avenue Cambridge, MA 02138 617-496-1027 Explore the enduring importance of rivers and canoes in Penobscot tribal life. See the archaeology of Harvard Yard, how students lived at colonial Harvard, and the role of the 17th-century Indian College in Harvard’s early years. Trace the birth of American anthropology through the China trade, the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, the Javanese Village at the Fair, expeditions to the Arctic and the American Southwest, and more in the museum’s 150th anniversary exhibition. Visit the website for special exhibitions. Admission to the connected Harvard Museum of Natural History and its famed Glass Flowers is included. Open daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
