6 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Massachusetts
As the state where the Mayflower famously landed Pilgrim settlers on Cape Cod, history flows through every corner of Massachusetts. From its historic ports to its infamous witch trials, this Bay State has remarkable small towns whose sights and attractions both preserve and seamlessly blend history with the present. Whether visiting the second oldest lighthouse in the country, picnicking in a 19th-century English garden, or enjoying a shore so beautiful it inspired colonists to settle in the area, Massachusetts and its small towns have something to inspire any traveler. From spunky college towns to spirited beach communities, this New England state will leave you breathless.
Provincetown
Perched at the northern tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is a haven for free spirits. As the temperatures rise, this quaint coastal town bursts to life with visitors eager to indulge in the beauty of the sand dunes, beaches, and lively downtown scene. Thrill-seekers can opt for a 1-hour SUV adventure with Art’s Dune Tours, providing a breathtaking view of the rolling, sandy hills against the backdrop of the Atlantic. For the more independent traveler, the 5.25-mile Province Lands Bike Trail offers an alternative way to explore the dunes. Rental stores like Provincetown Bike Rental can be found on Bradford Street while stores like Arnold’s Bike Shop are conveniently located closer to the scenic bike trail.
After an exhilarating journey through the dunes, Provincetown invites you to unwind, boasting 45 miles of tranquil shoreline to bury your toes in the sand and savor the ocean’s cool breeze. Race Point Beach is the town's prettiest (and busiest) beach, while other shores like Herring Cove are favored for their peaceful waves. After a day in the sun, Commercial Street is a charming retreat, with 3 miles of cute shops and restaurants to sample. The Lobster Pot is 1 local landmark that stands out from the crowd, serving fresh, seafood classics with a waterfront view.
Salem
Famous for the notorious witch trials where over 200 people were accused of witchcraft, Salem has long captivated those intrigued by the town’s grisly yet compelling past. And while October is by far the busiest time to appreciate the small town’s chilling history, Salem has jaw-dropping historical sights that keep people coming year-round. The town's history transcends the trials to encompass other distinctive features, such as the Derby Wharf Light Station (established in 1871) and the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Once a bustling colonial port town, the Salem site features 12 distinct historic structures spread across 9 acres on the Salem Harbor. Other notable town attractions include Salem’s House of Seven Gables, a 17th-century mansion in the post-medieval style that served as inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne's namesake novel.
For those keen to delve deeper into the town’s darker history, there is the Salem Witch Museum or the History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour, which offers a captivating journey through the town. Led by a local historian, the tour provides insight into 400 years of Salem's history, including the infamous trials, while showcasing centuries-old structures. For an even more immersive experience, the nighttime tour is conducted by lantern light, offering the ultimate spooky adventure.
Newburyport
Less than 1 hour north of Salem, the cozy coastal town of Newburyport may seem sleepy, but the sights and experiences are bucket list-worthy. Relaxing pursuits like exploring the Custom House Maritime Museum or strolling the Clipper City Rail Trail can provide a delightful introduction to your visit. But to truly be awe-struck, you will want to set aside a few extra hours, or even devote a whole day to Newburyport’s wonders.
Maudslay State Park is just one example of a Newburyport landmark that you could by all means devote an entire day to. The park features 16 miles of trails winding through wildflower meadows and pine forests, but the true highlight is the immaculate 19th-century gardens. Alternatively, for a more thrilling experience, you might consider embarking on a whale watching excursion with Newburyport Whale Watch. Departing from downtown Newburyport, the voyage travels from the Merrimack River to the Gulf of Maine, offering potential sightings of humpback, minke, and finback whales, as well as seals, seabirds, and even sharks. All in all, whether you are after an enchanting day of hikes and picnics in gorgeous historic gardens or an exhilarating ocean adventure, Newburyport promises experiences that will leave you breathless.
Gloucester
Another under-1-hour drive will bring you to charming Gloucester. Like Salem, this coastal Massachusetts town has a rich maritime past. As the home of America’s oldest seaport, Gloucester maintains a vibrant coastal culture, from museums like Maritime Gloucester to annual events like the Gloucester Waterfront Festival, happening this year on August 17th to 18th, 2024. Hosted at Stage Fort Park, the free-admission event will feature 175 stalls, from artisans to food vendors and much more. Summertime in Gloucester is also incredibly popular with beachgoers, and the town has some really stunning shores, like Good Harbor Beach, Wingaersheek Beach, or Stage Fort Park. The latter overlooks Gloucester harbor and is known for being the same shores that were first settled back in the 1600’s.
Nantucket
With a year-round population of around 14,000, the quaint island of Nantucket is another popular summer destination, its population swelling upwards of 80,000 people in July and August. Downtown is known for its old-world charm, from cobblestone side roads to centuries-old structures. Nearby, Old North Wharf is brightened with hydrangeas in the summertime and the waterfront cottages cast a picture-perfect scene. A brief walk from downtown will also bring you to Brant Point, a serene little shore with the Brant Point Lighthouse, America’s second oldest beacon. Small but mighty, the lighthouse was first erected in 1746 and is still in operation today. For a larger shore, Madaket Beach can be reached via a 6-mile paved path for bikers, hikers, and even cars. While back in town, other attractions like the Nantucket Whaling Museum or the Nantucket Shipwreck and Life Saving Museum (opening for the season on May 27th, 2024) are a fun way to escape the heat and learn more about the island’s history.
Northampton
As the proud home of Smith College, Northampton is a cultural hub for artists and academics. So if you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a youthful and spirited college town atmosphere, this Massachusetts town has all you need. The college itself offers a multitude of captivating attractions open to the public, such as the Smith College Museum of Art. For just $5USD, adults can explore four floors of world-class artistry, including several pieces by Monet and Picasso. Additionally, the college boasts the beautiful Botanic Garden of Smith College, a mesmerizing showcase of diverse and exotic plants. A leisurely stroll by Paradise Pond across the street extends the bliss, providing a picturesque conclusion to your time at Smith. Elsewhere in town, downtown Northampton is renowned for its shopping. Browse for a new read at Raven Used Books before crossing the rainbow crosswalk to Thornes Marketplace, a charming 3-story mall with a ton of quirky independent shops.
Final Thoughts
From sand to sea, and everything in between, Massachusetts continuously proves itself to be one of the best New England states. Whether you visit for an exhilarating day of whale watching in Newburyport or a mellow afternoon of shopping and museums in Northampton, there is something for every traveler. And while each town on this list offers a distinctive vibe, one thing they share is their ability to leave visitors breathless.
