Massachusetts attractions cover a huge range of activities

Massachusetts > State > Things to Do and See > Attractions

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

Island Queen

75 Falmouth Heights Road Falmouth, MA, 02540 Phone: 508-548-4800

Falmouth, Vineyard and the ferry between them offer variety of fun activities, stunning vistas

Whether you’re going for the day, the weekend or a long vacation, Martha’s Vineyard is an enchanting place to visit – and the best way to get there is on board the Island Queen. The ferry leaves from Falmouth, a lively seaside town with great beaches, bike trails, shops and restaurants. After exploring the town, park just 200 yards from the dock and board the ferry, sitting in the enclosed lounge or outside decks to enjoy the breathtaking views. Thirty-five minutes later, you’re in Oak Bluffs! Visit that town’s famous carousel and gingerbread houses, explore the island by bike (you can bring yours on the ferry – pets, too!), by sail, by bus tour or by foot. See the red cliffs at Aquinnah and the whaling captains’ homes in Edgartown.

Old Sturbridge Village

1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, off Route 20 Sturbridge, MA, 01566 Phone: 508-347-3362 Toll-Free: 800-733-1830

Travel into the 19th century at this re-created New England village, with a variety of hands-on activities

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.

Summer Shopping 500x250 - Destination Plymouth - Plymouth, MA

See Plymouth

4 North Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-747-0100 Toll-Free: 800-872-1620

In walkable Plymouth, you can enjoy several activities, fun attractions, every 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.

Pilgrim Hall Museum

75 Court Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-746-1620

Plymouth museum celebrates history of Pilgrims and of the Wampanoag people

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.

Old Sturbridge Village - More than a Museum!

Battleship Cove

5 Water Street Fall River, MA, 02721 Phone: 508-678-1100 Toll-Free: 800-533-3194

America’s naval history comes alive and inspires

Battleship Cove is now open from 9am-5pm daily! Please remember to follow our safety & social distancing guidelines!
This living history museum is a must-see for every child and family to understand the magnitude of America’s wartime naval history. The world's largest collection of US naval ships is here including the USS Massachusetts, the destroyer USS Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr., and PT Boats used in the South Pacific theater. A comprehensive women’s exhibit illustrates the contributions made by women during World War II and the role they have played in America’s wars, beginning with the Revolutionary War. The state-of-the-art special effects Pearl Harbor Experience is the only outdoor multimedia reenactment anywhere. Scouts and youth groups can participate in a year round maritime camping program, girl scout overnights, and the whole family will enjoy family nautical nights with affordable camping on site.

Kingston Collection

101 Kingston Collection Way Kingston, MA, 02364 Phone: 781-582-2445

Your premier destination for entertainment, shopping and dining

Kingston Collection is home to an impressive selection of traditional retail, entertainment experiences and dining, which include Bar Rustic, Macy’s, Target, PiNZ and Regal Cinemas. National brands include Victoria’s Secret, Hollister, American Eagle, Yankee Candle Company, Billy Beez and Sky Zone. Kingston Collection is strategically located just off Route 3, on Exit 8 in Kingston MA. Visit our website and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for a complete directory of stores, ongoing specials, promotions and a calendar of events.

Concord Museum

35 Cambridge Turnpike at Lexington Road Concord, MA, 01742 Phone: 978-369-9763

Extensive Americana collection makes this museum a great place to start your New England exploration

With renovated galleries and one of the country’s oldest collections of Americana, the Concord Museum is the perfect place to renew or begin your exploration of New England’s history. The desk where Thoreau wrote “Walden,” the lantern that signaled Paul Revere to begin his ride, a spearhead from the period immediately following the Ice Age are just a few of the museum’s treasures. There’s also a collection of samplers from 18th century schoolgirls, historic clothing, intricately carved clocks and powder horns and a variety of photos and 2,000 images from glass-plate negatives to daguerreotypes. American Revolutionary War items include muskets, cannon balls and swords and a rare surviving Revere print of the Boston Massacre. Children will love the scavenger hunt and other hands-on activities.

Colony Place

174 Colony Place Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-746-7663

The largest outdoor shopping and entertainment center in the region

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.

Mayflower II - See Plymouth - Plymouth, MA

Plimoth Patuxet Museums

137 Warren Avenue Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-746-1622

Discover history in a new light at the educational, interactive, and inspiring Plimoth Patuxet Museums

You’ll experience history in new and thought-stirring ways at Plimoth Patuxet Museums. At the Historic Patuxet Homesite, you’ll learn about the Wampanoag people who have lived here for over 12,000 years, as contemporary interpreters discuss the 17th-century lifeways of a culture that continues to thrive today. In the 17th-Century English Village visitors will immerse themselves in the re-creation of the small farming and maritime community built by the Pilgrims along the shore of Plymouth Harbor. At the Craft Center, see how crafts and herbal remedies were made, and step aboard Mayflower II in Plymouth Harbor. Walk along the path beside Town Brook to the Plimoth Grist Mill to learn how cornmeal is ground. The Museum has quick-service dining, shops, and a cinema.

Southwick’s Zoo

2 Southwick Street Mendon, MA, 01756 Phone: 800-258-9182

Animals – and rides – make for a great combination at Southwick’s Zoo

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.

Worcester Art Museum

55 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA, 01609 Phone: 508-799-4406

Get whisked away to other times, places, cultures at this engaging art museum

Prepare to be swept away when you enter the Worcester Art Museum, where selections from the museum’s 38,000 objects will take you away to other times and other cultures. See how the natural world inspired the work of Susan Swinand, marvel at exquisite 18th century Japanese folding screens – or go back to medieval times in the expanded collection of chivalric arms and armor. The museum’s stunning paintings from the 16th through 18th centuries have been reinstalled, with interactive elements. Families will feel at home here, with opportunities for play, drawing and relaxation. Ask about public tours, including 20-minute “zip tours” of one artist or work of art. Check the website for current and future exhibits, timed-admission information and safety protocols.

Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield MA-credit-Explore Western Mass and Greater Springfield CVB

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

1000 Hall of Fame Avenue Springfield, MA Phone: 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

191w Atlantic Avenue Boston, MA, 02109 Phone: 617-223-8666

Islands in Boston Harbor, and easy ferry ride from downtown. Swimming, hiking, picnicking. A fun day trip

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.

Cape Cod National Seashore

Various Locations Chatham to Provincetown, MA Phone: 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.

Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology

At Harvard University - 11 Divinity Avenue Cambridge, MA, 02138 Phone: 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.

Springfield Museums & Dr Seuss Nat’l Memorial Sculpture Garden

21 Edwards Street Springfield, MA, 01103 Phone: 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.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston

598 Assembly Row Somerville, MA, 02145 Phone: 617-702-5593 Toll-Free: 866-228-6439

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.

Rockport Chamber of Commerce

22 Broadway Rockport, MA, 01966 Phone: 978-546-6575 Toll-Free: 888-726-3922

Fall in love with Rockport

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!

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