8 Of The Most Epic Adventures In Massachusetts

Why do we travel? To break out of our routine, have new experiences, and create unforgettable memories. You can do all that and more in the stunning natural playground of Massachusetts where there’s so much to explore, discover, and try. See whales breaching off the cape, soar through the sky on an alpine zipline, go island hopping, raft the rapids, or walk in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers. Try something different on your New England vacation to experience a whole new side of Massachusetts and its epic adventures that’ll leave you wanting more.

Watch Out For Whales

The coast of Massachusetts is one of the world’s best whale watching destinations in the world. Here, you can see these beautiful marine mammals in their natural habitat and have a close-up animal encounter you’ll never forget.

The best place to see these gentle giants is in Cape Cod Bay and Stellwagon Bank. This pristine marine sanctuary is a primary feeding ground for humpback whales, finback whales, pilot whales, minke whales, and endangered right whales. Cruises are available from Plymouth Harbor and most offer narrated tours so you can learn about the whales and their natural environment.

It’s a good idea to reserve your tour in advance as spots fill up fast, especially in peak summer season and around holiday weekends. On the day, be sure to bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, and your camera so you can grab a dramatic shot of the whales in action! You may also want to dress warmly and pack layers, even in summer, as the air at sea is usually several degrees cooler than on land.

Raft the Rapids

Massachusetts is home to many roaring rivers, cascading past rocky gorges, through ancient canyons and lush valleys. For the ultimate adventure, don’t just enjoy the scenery — get out on the water for some high-speed, adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting. The Deerfield and Millers Rivers in northwestern Massachusetts offer some of the best whitewater rafting in the state. The rivers journey through varying terrain, resulting in a range of rapids that even the most inexperienced rafters can try.

Choose from family-friendly trips on Class I rapids all the way up to more challenging Class IV rapids that are only suitable for seasoned rafters. Many companies offer a full-day experience, including a picnic lunch, post-raft dinner, and a narrated tour from an experienced river guide. Always book your trip with an experienced tour company and follow safety instructions carefully. Bring a change of clothes because you will get wet and, if you’re packing your camera, make sure it’s waterproof!

Explore on Horseback

There’s nothing like seeing the New England scenery on horseback. The breeze in your hair, the sun on your face, and the horse underneath you as you gently trot through wildflower meadows, under the canopy of dense forest, and over rolling hills. The Cornerstone Ranch in central Massachusetts is a family-owned stables covering 55 acres in Princeton and Rutland. The ranch offers guided trail rides for all abilities, choosing from one hour to two hour tours. Kids can also enjoy family-friendly wagon rides around the ranch. If you’re visiting in winter, book a horse-drawn sleigh ride for a truly magical holiday experience.

Dress warmly as it can get cool on horseback and wear shoes with a small heel (high heels can get stuck in stirrups). If you’re arriving for a special seasonal event, such as a winter sleigh ride or in peak summer season, book early so you don’t miss out. Inexperienced riders may want to consider booking a private trail ride rather than joining a group, so they can get more one-on-one instruction from their guide.

Paddle Out to Sea

With more than 1,500 miles of beautiful coastline covering sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, and small islands, Massachusetts is a top destination for paddlers and one of the best places in the United States to try sea kayaking. Kayaks are available for rent with dozens of operators up and down the coast, from Rockport to Plymouth but one of the best places to get in the water is Cape Cod Bay. Launching from the pretty community of Provincetown, paddlers can explore.

Check the weather before you head out and stay home if there’s even a small chance that you’ll encounter rough seas or storms. Sea kayaking means you’ll need some level of ocean experience so if you’re a complete beginner, be sure to book a tour with an experienced guide who can teach you the basics of paddling technique, safety skills, and navigation. Be aware that sea kayaking can be strenuous so it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

Ride a Mountain Coaster

Right on the western edge of Massachusetts, near the New York State border, are the beautiful peaks of the Taconic Mountains. In this alpine oasis is one of Massachusetts’ highest mountain resorts, Jiminy Peak, which boasts an elevation of 2,380 feet. The resort is home to Massachusetts' first mountain coaster, which reaches speeds of up to 23 mph. This is a thrilling way to enjoy the alpine scenery as the course follows the contours of the mountain as it plunges down through wooded areas and open vistas to the base.

The coaster has seasonal operating hours so be sure to check the schedule before you go. You may also want to check the weather report as bad conditions can close the ride. Take some time to explore the other attractions at Jiminy Peak after your coaster. The resort also includes chairlift rides, an alpine super slide, a giant swing, and a rock climbing wall.

Try Island Camping

Most travelers to Boston stay in the city to explore its many attractions but there’s more to the Massachusetts capital than its land-based activities. Boston Harbor is home to the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park. The park consists of 34 islands and peninsulas, most of which are just a short ferry ride away from the downtown docks.

The most populated islands of Georges, Spectacle, Peddocks, and Thompson are all reachable via a public ferry service which operates seasonally but for a more exciting adventure in the park, try a real castaway experience and camp out. Peddocks Island offers tent sites as well as yurts with bunk beds and electricity. All sites offer toilets and picnic tables. There are also resident staff available 24/7, providing campsite management and supervision.

Book your campsite well in advance as spots fill up early, especially for yurts. Once you’ve made your reservation, head over to the ferry schedule to book a ticket there too. All of the Boston Harbor Islands have a carry-in, carry-out policy so don’t leave anything behind, including garbage. Also, bear in mind that pets, fireworks, and alcohol are prohibited at the campgrounds.

See Where the American Revolution Began

Massachusetts is where much of American history was made, from the landing of the Mayflower at Plymouth Rock to key battles in the Civil War. In fact, the state is where the Revolutionary War got its start, with the first armed conflict taking place in 1775 in the area now known as Minute Man National Historical Park. In April 2025, the park will mark 250 years since this pivotal battle with a series of commemorative events and programs.

Even in a normal year, there’s lots going on at the park. One of the more exciting guided ranger programs is the ‘Minute Men: Neighbors in Arms’ tour which meets at historic Concord House and shows visitors exactly what it meant to be a minute man — complete with a musket-firing demonstration!

The musket-firing demonstration is not suitable for anyone with hearing issues, but there’s lots of other activities at the park. Check the schedule for special events, including battle reenactments and seasonal activities. You can also book a guided tour around the battlefield or simply hike the beautiful Battle Road Trail, a five mile path that runs from Concord to the park’s eastern boundary in Lexington.

Hike Through History

The beautiful Berkshire region of western Massachusetts is known for its mountainous peaks, pristine lakes, and dense forests. It’s also where you can hike to North America’s only natural white marble arch, formed over 13,000 years ago. The Natural Bridge State Park is one of Massachusetts’ most important geological sites. Its legendary natural bridge is made from 550 million year old bedrock marble and spans the Hudson Brook as it meanders through a 60 foott gorge, formed by glacial erosion. Hike the chasm with a ranger to learn about the fascinating features of this natural wonder and visit the park’s other major landmark, an abandoned marble quarry. The tour takes around an hour and is suitable for even beginner hikers although the terrain can be uneven.

The park is open seasonally from late-May to mid-October so be sure to plan your visit in advance and check opening/closing dates. This is an historic site so don’t leave anything on the trail or stray from the path. If you’d prefer to explore on your own, without a guide, stop by the Visitor Center to pick up a self-guided tour.

Adventure Awaits in Massachusetts

From the time of the pilgrims, stepping off the Mayflower and into the unknown, Massachusetts has been a state that attracts adventurers. And it’s easy to see why. With a stunning coastline to the east, towering mountains to the west, and the lush farmlands of central Massachusetts, there’s so much to explore and enjoy in this beautiful state. Whether you’re eager for a meet and greet with the local wildlife, feel the need for speed, or want to see history come alive, pack your bags for the Bay State. Come ready for adventure, go home with cherished memories.