Don’t Miss These Top Massachusetts Destinations
[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]A[/dropcap]s one of the original 13 colonies of the United States, Massachusetts is riddled with historic landmarks that document the first arrivals of the European settlers and the beginnings of the United States as the world knows it today. Travelers can expect to find stories of the past, scenic landscapes and a forward-thinking state that has just welcomed recreational cannabis into its arms. Whether you visit Massachusetts for an American history lesson or come to explore the modern city of Boston, there is a lot to feast your eyes upon.
As far as cannabis goes, Massachusetts is fairly new to the industry, having only legalized recreational cannabis as of November 2016. Cannabis is not as readily available yet it might be in already established cannabis states, so if you plan to visit this magnificent historical state, be cautious and always follow local laws. Be especially careful if you plan to visit many venues or a federally owned park.
A Weekend at Cape Cod
With roughly 560 miles of sandy shores along its coast, Cape Cod beaches are regarded as some of the best in the world. There are locations for windsurfing, off-roading trails and an abundance of wildlife to watch out for. After a long day out in the sun, satisfy a ravenous appetite at one of the many waterfront restaurants that are sure to offer a menu of fresh seafood. Vacationers have several options for overnight stay ranging from family friendly hotels with playground-like pools to property rentals that sit right along the beach. Find comfort in Nantucket where the small island town provides both cottages and highly rated resorts. Likewise, Martha’s Vineyard, another island off the coast is an iconic destination to visit. The picturesque scenery of busy harbors and lighthouses is the perfect backdrop for a weekend of relaxation by the Atlantic ocean.
Boston’s Fenway Park
What some may refer to as “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark,” Fenway Park has been the home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912. Experience the one-hour walking tour of Fenway Park where participants can learn about the historical baseball treasure firsthand. Taking place daily, rain or shine, the tours run morning to evening. As the oldest ballpark in the league, tours at Fenway is a must for sports fans as guides take visitors to see the original stands, the Green Monster and all throughout the stadium. Because the tours also run on game days, they make the perfect pregame to boost excitement for watching players out on the field. What better way to take part in one of the country’s oldest traditions than to go to a ballgame at the very first ballpark?
Get Spooked in Salem
Infamous for the Salem witch trials, this city brings an influx of people during the fall season. October’s changing leaves, crisp air and Halloween festivities make a perfect match for tourists looking to get spooked. Explore through the Salem Witch Museum that covers the hysteria that struck the village in the spring of 1692. The main presentation bases itself off of actual trial documentation using life size stage sets and narration to bring guests into the historical moments. Other activities revolving around the witch hunt include Salem’s Hocus Pocus Tours, The Jonathan Corwin Witch House as well as the Salem Witch Trials Memorial. The east coast town unsurprisingly has a celebrated selection of fresh seafood restaurants worth checking out. Reviews point foodies in the direction of Turner’s Seafood Grill and Market which comes with a seafood market and oyster bar. After a day engrossed in the tales of witchcraft, wind down by indulging in some of New England’s best lobster, clam chowder bowls and more.
Freedom Trail Tours
History buffs won’t want to miss the opportunity of traveling through the streets of Boston to follow key moments of the nation’s origins. Come face to face with 16 historical sites on the 2.5 mile walk that is the Freedom Trail. Dive into the story of the American Revolution and discover the ways in which the roots of Boston wove themselves into the famous history of the nation’s beginning. Choose from two departure locations, the Boston Common Visitor Information Center or the ArtsBoston Booth at Faneuil Hall, where guides dressed in traditional 18th century attire will lead you through the Freedom Trail. The tour features costumed-tour actors that breathe life into the tales of the American Revolution along with museums, meeting places, burying grounds and more.
Take Helicopter Ride Over Boston
Exploring a new city often times means multiple days walking on foot from site to site. For a break, opt for a thrilling helicopter tour of Boston where your eyes can fully take in sites like Fenway Park, Charles River and the Boston Harbor at a bird’s eye view. There’s a whole other way to get high by seeing the beauty of the city from above. Companies like Boston Helicopters and Tuckamore Aviation give participants 30-45 minute flights over the city and offer varying tour routes. Stick to just the city and gaze upon the streets and architecture both old and new or keep to the waves and to the coast and its nearby islands. Some tours even feature a “doors off” flying experience, adding an extra dose of adrenaline. An evening tour might be the perfect date for couples hoping to witness the city during sunset!
