Choose from 83 Fun Things to Do in Massachusetts
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 83 listings.
Boston Children's Museum
Boston Children's Museum is the city's premier destination for the education of children and the second oldest museum of its kind in the country. It boasts a wide variety of activities and hands-on exhibits for children through entertainment and fun. Many are just as entertaining for parents as they are for children.
The museum hosts nearly 20 permanent exhibits. Among them, the incredibly popular Arthur & Friends is home to characters from Marc Brown's TV show and book series. In the Art Studio, parents work with their children to create freeform art. The Construction Zone inspires children to work with trucks and power tools to explore the world of construction. While the Japanese House is an actual house shipped from Kyoto to help foster an understanding of foreign cultures a world away.
History buffs will also appreciate the museum's rare and substantial collection of Natural History, Dolls and Dollhouses, Americana, Native American and Japanese artifacts. While many of its more than 50,000 artifacts are safely stored away from the public, visitors are still able to view a sizable portion of the collection.
Practical Info
Open Saturday through Thursday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-9 p.m. No free parking. Paid parking garages and lots are located nearby. The museum is easily accessible by public transportation via subway or bus.
Address: 308 Congress St., Boston, Massachusetts 02210, USA
Hours: Sat-Thurs 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Admission: Adults & Children 1-15 are $14; Children under 1 are free
From $ 57
Willard Brook State Forest
Just an hour’s drive from Boston, you’ll find the beautiful New England grove of Willard Brook State Forest. Escape the busyness of Boston in less than an hour, and discover the rugged New England beauty the area is famous for. The Willard Brook State Forest is over 2,500 acres of classic New England forest, surrounded by babbling brooks, creeks and streams, which makes for an absolutely spectacular fall showcase come October. June, however, is when the mountain laurel blooms, and when the snow falls, visitors enjoy miles of cross-country ski opportunities. Others come year-round simply to enjoy the serene escape provided by this wooded wonderland.
With over 19 campsites, a group Yurt, numerous swimming and fishing opportunities, miles of hiking, mountain biking and horse trails, this is a popular escape for those in the Boston area looking to get out and explore the softer side of nature.
Practical INfo
Toilets are available onsite, but showers are not. Peak season is May through September.
Address: Rte. 119, Between Ashby & Townsend, Massachusetts, USA
Admission: Daily parking fee $5
From $ 105
South End
The South End neighborhood of Back Bay in Boston is where you will find the famous Victorian row houses. It is northwest of South Boston, north of Dorchester, northeast of Roxbury and southwest of Bay Village.
Bow-front row houses are the star of South End. These are aesthetically uniform rows of buildings that date back to the 19th century and are typically five-story red-brick residential and commercial structures that showcase various styles of architecture including Renaissance Revival, Italianate and French Second Empire, Queen Anne Gothic Revival, Greek Revival and Egyptian Revival. Although there are varying styles, these row houses maintain their uniformity through the use of similar materials—red brick, slate, granite or limestone trim and cast iron railings.
Bay Village is one of the highlights of the South End section of Boston. It encompasses about six blocks around Piedmont Street and is the hub for Boston’s gay community. Art lovers should check out the Boston Center for the Arts, while those looking for shopping will be delighted with South Ends increasing number of retail shops. The neighborhood’s commercial space is full of unique stores, including a few dedicated to items for dog owners.
South End has seen a surge in restaurants wanting to open in the neighborhood, especially on Washington and Tremont Streets. Tremont is often called “Restaurant Row” and includes a variety of ethnic influences. Look for French, Ethiopian, Indian, Italian, Peruvian and Brazilian cuisines, among others. Although many restaurants in South End can be on the pricey side, it’s definitely worth exploring the best eats. Consider a South End food and walking tour to learn about the history and diverse cultures that have helped shape South End’s current culinary scene.
Practical Info
As with the entire Back Bay area, is it recommended you don’t drive in the neighborhood. Heavy traffic and gridlock can make travel by car very frustrating. Instead, take the subway (either the Green or Orange Lines), take a city bus or catch a cab.
Address: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
From $ 58
Wrentham Village
Sometimes the best of a place is featured by its shopping, and Boston is as cosmopolitan a city as the next, so one might expect premium shopping while visiting. Some of us, however, also are on the look out for a deal, and if that’s the case, then turn your sights toward Wrentham Village. This premium outlet shopping mall has some of the best names in fashion at amazing prices.
Featuring designer name outlets is part of the attraction, but what sets Wrentham Village apart is its abundant diversity – jewelry, accessories, housewares, gift and specialty items, and a widely-loved food court make this shopping experience. Find Brooks Brothers, Adidas, Coach, Cole Haan, DKNY, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th and more here at Wrentham Village.
Practical Info
Wrentham Village is located on Route 1A in Wrentham, Mass. at the intersection of I-495. From Boston, visitors can take I-90 W to I-495 S and take exit 15.
Address: One Premium Outlets Boulevard, Wrentham, Massachusetts, USA
Hours: Mon - Sat: 10am-9pm, Sun: 10am-6pm
From $ 49
Symphony Hall
Boston’s beautiful symphony hall is widely considered one of the premier classical music venues in the United States. Adored with Greek and Roman statues and gilded ceilings, the hall is known for its beautiful interior as well as its superb acoustics. It is home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra, one of the country’s oldest and most celebrated.
The walls of the stage even slope down to increase the quality of the sound in the giant concert hall. Every detail was created or modified to enhance the acoustics, which makes for a phenomenal listening experience. The hall also contains an impressive 4,800-pipe organ.
With its exterior lined with columns and classical design, the hall obtained status as US National Historic Landmark and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Past performances have included the works of classic composers such as Tchaikovsky, Beethoven, Rachmaninoff, Brahmns, and more.
Practical Info
The Boston Symphony Hall is accessible by car via Highway 93, or from the Heath Street/Brigham Circle "E" Green Line train’s Symphony stop. Attire is typically semi-formal, formal, or business. The hall is open from 10 am to 6 pm though performance times vary. Tours of the public areas of the structure are available by reservation.
Address: 301 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, Massachusetts, USA 02115, USA
Hours: Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm
Admission: Varies by performance
From $ 40
Site of the Boston Massacre
A circle of cobblestones in front of the Old State House still stands to commemorate the Boston Massacre that occurred in 1770. When tension between British soldiers and colonists came to a head, a minor fight erupted into a riot. Rocks, fists, and insults were thrown as the soldiers fired into the crowd, killing five Bostonians. At the time, 2,000 soldiers occupied the town of only 16,000. The troops forced their way in to defend officers from the hostile (though unarmed) crowd.
The Boston Massacre was an important moment in early US history. The violence toward colonists served to turn public opinion against the Redcoats soldiers, some of whom were tried for murder. Figures such as Paul Revere and John Adams were instrumental in the aftermath of the incident. Some have even called it the spark that started the Revolutionary War. For many it is seen as the start of the rebellion against British occupation in colonial America.
Practical Info
The Boston Massacre site can be found at the intersection of Congress and State streets in downtown Boston. The site is part of the Freedom Trail that runs throughout the city.
Address: 206 Washington St, Boston, Massachusetts, USA 02109, USA
Hours: Open 24/7
From $ 20
Old Sturbridge Village
Old Sturbridge Village is one of several living museums throughout Massachusetts and includes a working farm, three hydro-powered mills and almost 60 vintage buildings. A cast of interpreters in full costume roam the village, interacting with visitors to help gain an appreciation of New England life as it was some 200 years ago. The village is an incredibly popular attraction for tourists and armchair historians, as well as a major field trip destination for area schools.
The grounds are separated into three distinct areas, each providing a unique glimpse into various aspects of the life of early American settlers. The Mill Neighborhood consists of several commercial buildings, including a sawmill and gristmill, centered around an onsite millpond to generate power. Several farms, buildings and shops, including a blacksmith, school, pottery shop and covered bridge, are located in Countryside. Lastly, The Center Village, as one might expect, is the hub of town with a public green at its core. Visitors to the latter can visit several vintage meetinghouses, a tin shop, law office, bank and more.
Practical Info
The village is open year-round, but hours vary depending on the exact time of year. Free parking is available. The village is located on Route 20 in Sturbridge, Massachusetts and is accessible via I-84 and the Mass Pike (I-90). Via public transportation, the Peter Pan Bus line operates direct drop-off and pickup services at the village with connections in Hartford, Boston and New York City.
Address: 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, Massachusetts 05166, USA
Hours: Year-round
Admission: Adults $24; seniors (55+) $22; youth (3-17) $8
From $ 57
Salem Witch Village
A visit to the Salem Witch Village includes a 15-minute guided tour by a practicing witch, who will bring you through an indoor maze in which you can trace the history of witchcraft and the stereotypes surrounding it. If you are wondering why witchcraft is associated with flying broomsticks, black cats, and devil worship, you’ll find out the history in the Salem Witch Village.
The Salem Witch Village tour includes a timeline of the different persecution periods in the history of witches, included the Salem Witch Trials and Burning Times in Europe. You’ll also find out what it means to be a witch today.
After a guided tour, visitors can stop in the Salem Witch Village’s gift shop, complete with authentic Pagan and Wiccan supplies, New England handicrafts, and other souvenirs.
Practical Info
Salem can be reached from Boston via the Salem High-Speed Ferry. You can buy a combined ticket that includes a tour of the Salem Witch Village as well as the Salem Wax Museum. During October, the attractions are especially busy, so it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance.
Address: 282 Rear Derby Street, Salem, Massachusetts 0197, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Built more than a century ago, Boston's Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum boasts one of the city's most well regarded fine arts collections. American, European and Asian pieces are all included in all varieties of media, including sculpture, paintings, tapestries and more.
In the 90s, the museum became the center of a high profile art theft that included 13 of its most valuable works. In total, the robbers escaped with more than $500 million in artwork, making it the single largest private property theft ever. To this day, the crime remains unsolved, and the whereabouts of the stolen works are unknown.
The museum hosts an ever-rotating blend of exhibits, from historic works to more contemporary examples. The dedication to the arts as a whole includes hosting onsite lectures, concerts and community events, while on Sunday afternoons, the museum's concert series invites musicians to play a variety of favorites, from time-honored classics to new music.
The curators maintain Isabella's deep love of horticulture by meticulously pruning and constantly changing the outdoor courtyard. Gardeners blend the green space in clever ways with sculptures, as well as existing architecture. The goal is to provide visitors with a unique, ever-changing perspective of the courtyard that assures no two visits to the museum are alike.
To this day, as a tribute to Isabella Stewart Gardner, admission is free to anyone named Isabella. All visitors are welcome to visit the museum for free on their own birthday.
Practical Info
The museum is open year-round except on most major holidays. Hours are Wednesday through Monday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thursday, when closing time is 9 p.m. Via public transportation, take the MBTA Green Line E to the Museum of Fine Arts stop. Street parking is available but limited and metered around the museum.
Address: 25 Evans Way, Boston 02115, USA
Hours: Wed-Mon 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Admission: Adults $15, seniors 65+ $12, college student $5
From $ 57
Boston Light
Not surprisingly, Boston boasts the nation's oldest continually operating lighthouse. Boston Light on Little Brewster Island dates back to 1716 and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1964.
The original lighthouse was virtually obliterated by British forces near the end of the Revolutionary War. The tower was resurrected in 1783 and in 1859 was raised 14 additional feet to its current height of 102 feet. The beacon is still in use by the Coast Guard today and is capable of shining its light up to 27 miles across the Atlantic.
By decree, the Coast Guard had automated all lighthouses throughout the country by 1990. A handful of preservation groups petitioned to keep Boston Light in its original state and eventually Congress relented. Today it is staffed by only a few Coast Guard workers who perform geological surveys, meteorological studies, and other data collection.
The island is largely devoid of wildlife and vegetation, save for a few flowers planted near the lighthouse keeper's house. Visitors fortunate enough to climb the lighthouse tower are rewarded with stunning views of the Brewster Islands, the town of Hull, and of downtown Boston.
Practical Info
The lighthouse is open for group tours in spring, summer, and fall by advance appointment only. Private boaters can access Little Brewster Island on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. for drop-off and pick-up only. There are no docking services and only off-shore anchoring is allowed. As an active Coast Guard installation, there are no public restrooms on the island and a strict carry-in/carry-out policy is in place for all trash.
Address: Little Brewster Island, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Hours: The lighthouse is open for group tours in spring, summer, and fall by advance appointment only.
From $ 86
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
Overlooking the sea in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood, the JFK Library and Museum documents the life and legacy of President Kennedy. The building holds official presidential documents and correspondence, a wealth of multimedia exhibits and artifacts, and literary gems such as some unpublished writings of Ernest Hemingway.
The Basics
Designed by architect I.M. Pei, this striking concrete and glass building sits on a scenic 10-acre (4-hectare) park on Columbia Point, which offers panoramic views of Boston Harbor and the Boston city skyline. Inside, you can peruse 25 immersive multimedia exhibits that cover topics such as President Kennedy's experience on the campaign trail, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Space Race, and the Kennedy family. The museum's art collection is also a must-see, featuring personal momentos such as a 1962 portrait of Robert F. Kennedy, a watercolor of the White House painted by Jacqueline Kennedy that once hung in the Oval Office, and a finger painting made by young Caroline Kennedy.
You can get free entry to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum with a Go Boston Card or Boston Explorer Pass. These also include access to other city highlights such as the Children's Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the New England Aquarium.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The on-site JFK CafeÌ boasts views of the Boston city skyline and provides a family-friendly setting for breakfast, lunch, and snacks throughout the day.
- Coat check service is not available, but there is a public coat rack for visitors to use.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchair users. Wheelchairs are offered free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to Get There
The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is accessible via Interstate 93, and is roughly five miles (eight kilometers) from downtown Boston. There is a large, free parking lot located directly in front of the building. Alternatively take the MBTA Rapid Transit Red Line to JFK/UMASS Station; from there, a free shuttle bus goes to the library every 20 minutes starting at 8am.
When to Get There
The JFK Museum is open year-round, with the exception of New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Summer is the busiest season, when you can dine outside at the cafeÌ and enjoy stunning views from Columbia Point. Spring and fall often bring mild weather and smaller crowds. Between May and October, Kennedy's 26-foot (8-meter) sailboat Victura is on display in the museum.
Museum History
The library's location was of special significance to the president, who spent his upperclassman years nearby at the Harvard Graduate School of Business. Although the president chose the original site of the building in 1963, he was assassinated before construction began. The Kennedy family then chose relatively unknown architect I.M. Pei to design the building, which was dedicated in 1979.
Address: Columbia Point, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Hours: Daily 9am to 5pm
Admission: Adults: $14; Seniors and Students: $12
From $ 57
Salem Witch Trials Memorial
The Salem Witch Trials Memorial preserves a moment in history, when 17th-century residents of colonial Massachusetts tried and executed women and men accused of witchcraft. The site, a small grassy area surrounded by stone walls and locust trees, is just one of the many witchcraft hysteria attractions in the historical town of Salem.
The Basics
Enter the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, a small park, through the stone threshold where the accuseds’ statements of innocence are inscribed. Then feel the palatable history as you rest on one of the 20 granite benches, each inscribed with the victim’s name and date of execution. Designed by Maggie Smith and James Cutler, the memorial is based on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington DC.
Salem is chockablock with witchery reminders, and guided tours often combine the Salem Witch Trial Memorial with visits to the 1637 Burial Point, downtown Salem, and the Salem Witch Village. Many visitors come as a day trip from Boston, only 30 minutes away, and spend time exploring the town of Salem, which is compact and very walkable.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is a must for anyone into witchy, spooky history.
- The memorial does not offer any services but is close to facilities at the Salem Witch Village and the Salem Wax Museum.
- The Salem Village Witchcraft Victims Memorial, distinct from the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) away in Danvers, Massachusetts.
- The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is on Liberty Street between Charter and Derby streets. Many of the town’s historic sites, hotels, and restaurants are within a few blocks. Parking is available for a fee on public streets and in the town’s many parking lots. Direct train service from Boston to Salem is available daily on the Newburyport/Rockport line from North Station.
When to Get There
The Salem Witch Trials Memorial is open year-round, and is outside so best to visit when the weather is pleasant. Many nearby attractions have limited (if any) hours in winter, which means fewer lines but cold toes. The town hosts events all year, including events for the new and full moons. October, the season of the witch, brings Halloween, the Official Salem Witches’ Halloween Ball, and many other events in tune with the season.
The Witch Trials, Then and Now
The Salem Witch Trials, held in 1692, began with the hanging of Bridget Bishop at Proctor’s Ledge near Gallows Hill, also in Salem. John Hathorne, the judge of the Salem Witch Trials, died in 1717 and is buried at the Old Burying Point Cemetery next door to the memorial. The witch trials’ tercentenary, celebrated in 1992, featured a dedication speech by Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel.
Address: Liberty Street, Salem, Massachusetts, USA
From $ 14
USS Constitution
The USS Constitution is a fascinating example of United States and military history. The 44-gun, Boston-built vessel hearkens back to 1797 when President George Washington ordered that six frigates be constructed at naval yards along the east coast.
“Old Ironsides," as it’s known today, is officially “America’s Ship of State” and one of the most popular and well respected military attractions in the country. Before entering, visit the onsite museum, which provides insight into US military history, including the War of 1812 and the general timeline of the USS Constitution.
Once aboard the ship, free guided tours are offered year-round by knowledgeable navy personnel. Visitors are also invited to explore and photograph a large portion of the ship, including the main deck and the level below deck. Select summer visitors are invited to join in a special Constitution Experience. Every Tuesday morning at 8 a.m., the crew undertakes a Morning Colors ceremony that includes a rare firing of the ship's saluting battery. Visitors can then board for an extended tour through the ship’s innerworkings before visiting the official museum.
Practical Info
The museum is open year-round Tuesday through Sunday. In summer, it is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; in October until 4 p.m. From November 1 to March 31, it is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Due to its location, immediate, immediate access is restricted. However, paid parking is available nearby. A variety of public transportation options are also available.
Address: Charlestown Navy Yard, Building 22, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129, USA
Hours: Year-round
From $ 25
Samuel Adams Brewery
For more than 30 years, no beer has been as synonymous with the city of Boston as Sam Adams, named after the well-known patriot who played a critical role in the Boston Tea Party and American Revolution.
For a real taste–literally and figuratively–of Boston, a visit to the Sam Adams Brewery is a must. The brewery is among the city's most popular attractions for both beer-loving tourists and locals. Learn about the general history of beer-making and the brewing process, as well as what makes Sam Adams unique. Visitors can sample raw ingredients along the way and gain an appreciation for the materials involved.
Practical Info
Admission is free, and the brewery is open year-round, except for most major holidays. Hours are Monday through Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Friday until 5:30 p.m. Due to limited onsite parking, the brewery recommends using public transportation.
Address: 30 Germania St, Boston, MA 02130, USA
Hours: Year-round Mon thru Thur and Sat 10am - 3pm, Fri 10am - 5:30pm
From $ 57
Cape Cod Maritime Museum
Lovers of land and sea can wander the quiet galleries of the Cape Cod Maritime Museum and gain unlimited access to historical documents, impressive models and incredible art. Travelers say the intimate space, which warmly welcomes visitors from across the globe, has a charming vibe and friendly, knowledgeable staff, too. The unique boathouse showcases some of the best of wooden boats and a boatbuilding workshop in the museum's basement offers travelers a behind the scenes look at how these beautiful old-school vessels are made. Guides and craftsmen will share stories about the old-world art and explain how the Cape Cod Maritime Museum helps local schools apply math and science concepts from the classroom in the real world. It's the perfect way to spend a few afternoon hours before heading to the nearby harbor for a boat cruise or a meal.
Practical Info
The museum is located at 135 South Street in Hyannis near the Inner Harbor. It is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 4 p.m. Admission is $6 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.
Address: 135 South St, Hyannis, MA 02601, USA
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun Noon-4pm
Admission: Adult $6, Student & Seniors $5, Child 8 & Under Free
From $ 57
Buckman Tavern
Although it dates back to the early 18th-century, the Buckman Tavern secured its place in the history books during the American Revolutionary War, as a popular meeting place of the Lexington Minutemen. Its most significant moment came on April 19th 1775, when the militia gathered at the tavern to await the oncoming British troops - what would later be known as the Battle of Lexington and Concord, notorious as the starting point of the American War of Independence.
Today, the Buckman Tavern is preserved as a National Historic Landmark and museum, where visitors can learn all about its long history, and view original fittings, including a portrait of proprietor John Buckman and the old front door, complete with a bullet hole made during the infamous battle.
Practical Info
The Buckman Tavern is located on Bedford Street in Lexington and is open from March-November, daily from 10am-4pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is $8.
Address: 1 Bedford St, Lexington, Massachusetts 02420, USA
Hours: Open daily, March-November 10am-4pm
Admission: $8
From $ 57
Franklin Park Zoo
Just inside Boston's large Franklin Park is the aptly named Franklin Park Zoo. This century-old, 72-acre animal park features some of the best wildlife exhibits in New England, as it is home to more than 200 species. Visitors are welcome to view them all within a wide variety of main exhibits, including the Tropical Forest, a three-acre structure that simulates the natural environment for a variety of native African animals such as bats, gorillas, crocodiles, lemurs and hippos.
The African-themed Kalahari Kingdom houses a lion named Christopher, who guests can see through the glass or up close by way of a Land Rover replica that appears to have "crashed" into his den.
The zoo's other fascinating exhibits include the Outback Trail, the Children's Zoo and Tiger Tales, which is home to two rescued tigers named Anala and Luther. Perhaps the zoo's modern day claim to fame is its appearance as the backdrop in the Kevin James 2011 comedy film Zookeeper.
Practical Info
During the summer (April 1-Sept. 30), the zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and until 6 p.m. on weekends and major holidays. In winter (Oct. 1-March 31), hours are until 4 p.m. daily. The zoo is easily reachable by car just off Storrow Drive, I93, or Route 128. Convenient public transportation options are also available via subway and bus. Free parking is offered year-round.
Address: 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston, MA 02121, USA
Hours: April 1-Sep 30 weekdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; weekends until 4 p.m.Oct. 1-March 31 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily
Admission: Adult $17.95, Senior $14.95, Child $11.95, Under 2 Free, Members Free
From $ 57
Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary
Located between Cape Cod and Cape Ann, the 842-square-mile Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is Boston’s premier whale watching spot, as summertime brings hungry migratory humpback whales to the area.
Stellwagen Bank is an underwater plateau rich in nutrients, which feed the local ecosystem. The plateau was created by glacially deposited sand and gravel from the Laurentide Ice Sheet. There are well over 100 species of animals that call the Stellwagen area home, whether it’s migratory or full-time. Fish like Atlantic cod, blue fin tuna and striped bass are found in the region.
Reptiles, primarily the leatherback sea turtle, and scores of marine birds are also found in Stellwagen. Perhaps the most feared resident in the region is the shark. The great white shark, along with a number of other shark varieties, has been documented in Stellwagen Bank.
The mammals frequenting Stellwagen Bank are the most famous, including five different types of seals and numerous whales. The seal varieties are harp seal, harbor seal, hooded seal, gray seal and ringed seal. The real stars of the show at Stellwagen Bank are the various whale species that pass through. Whale watchers are most likely to spot humpback whales, Minke whales, fin whales, and the critically endangered North Atlantic Right Whales, while beluga, orca, pilot and sperm whales are among the others found here.
One of the best ways to see the whales in Stellwagen is to take a whale watching tour. These tours include naturalist guides who know the history of the region and are recognized experts on whales. You can also explore Stellwagen by scuba diving expeditions and/or fishing charters. There are also several dive sites, including the Josephine Marie shipwreck.
Practical Info
Whale watching season is typically between May and October. Most tours go up to 20 miles offshore, so bringing motion sickness medicine may be wise. Remember to layer clothing as weather can change, and bring necessities like bottled water, sunblock and binoculars. If you plan to scuba dive or go fishing in Stellwagen Bank, pay attention to its rules and guidelines, as the area is closely monitored and protected.
Address: Massachusetts Bay, Massachusetts, USA
From $ 56
Mary Baker Eddy Library
Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) was a 19th century American author, poet, teacher and founder of Christian Science, and this library, research center and museum gives visitors the chance to take a glimpse into her life. This inspiring New England woman achieved many things during her lifetime and was a pioneer in many fields from business to publishing, education and women's rights, especially during a time when women had very little power or voice to be heard.
At the Mary Baker Eddy Library you'll learn more about this remarkable woman through exhibits, collections and a library, which is home to "one of the largest collections by and about an American woman." While an attraction located in a Christian Science church might scare some off, the exhibits presented are interesting and informative, touching on an array of topics and issues.
Begin your exploration in the Quest Gallery to learn more about the achievements of Mary Baker Eddy through photographs, documents and exhibits and computer-based "quests" that electronically take you through life's challenges, many of which Mary Baker Eddy faced herself. In the "Journey Toward Home" exhibit visitors are taken through this woman's most significant moves, which is important to understand as Mary Baker Eddy viewed relocating as relating to power. And in "Transcending Boundaries" you'll see the work of young artists from Artists for Humanity as the exhibit showcases Polaroid portrait photos of these youths with captions that answer a question on global connections, for example, "What do you want to ask someone from across the globe?"
The highlight of a visit to the Mary Baker Eddy Library is undoubtedly the Mapparium, a three-story stained-glass globe that takes visitors into an inverted Planet Earth as it appeared in 1935 to literally be in the middle of the many countries and cultures around the globe. Learn about geography, history and have some fun with the globe's unique acoustics. A music and light show enhances the experience and reminds you that your ideas have the power to change the world. Additionally, artifacts and documents further tell the story of how this inspiring exhibit came to be.
Don't leave without perusing the gift shop, which sells books, clothing, artwork, accessories, memorabilia and an impressive selection of beautiful globes.
At the Mary Baker Eddy Library you'll learn more about this remarkable woman through exhibits, collections and a library, which is home to "one of the largest collections by and about an American woman." While an attraction located in a Christian Science church might scare some off, the exhibits presented are interesting and informative, touching on an array of topics and issues.
Begin your exploration in the Quest Gallery to learn more about the achievements of Mary Baker Eddy through photographs, documents and exhibits and computer-based "quests" that electronically take you through life's challenges, many of which Mary Baker Eddy faced herself. In the "Journey Toward Home" exhibit visitors are taken through this woman's most significant moves, which is important to understand as Mary Baker Eddy viewed relocating as relating to power. And in "Transcending Boundaries" you'll see the work of young artists from Artists for Humanity as the exhibit showcases Polaroid portrait photos of these youths with captions that answer a question on global connections, for example, "What do you want to ask someone from across the globe?"
The highlight of a visit to the Mary Baker Eddy Library is undoubtedly the Mapparium, a three-story stained-glass globe that takes visitors into an inverted Planet Earth as it appeared in 1935 to literally be in the middle of the many countries and cultures around the globe. Learn about geography, history and have some fun with the globe's unique acoustics. A music and light show enhances the experience and reminds you that your ideas have the power to change the world. Additionally, artifacts and documents further tell the story of how this inspiring exhibit came to be.
Don't leave without perusing the gift shop, which sells books, clothing, artwork, accessories, memorabilia and an impressive selection of beautiful globes.
Address: 200 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, 02115 MA, USA
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am - 4pm. Closed Mon.
Admission: General Admission: $6; Senior/Student/Youth: $4
From $ 57
Louisburg Square
If you're looking to visit the most exclusive neighborhood in Boston, you'll want to stop by Louisburg Square in Beacon Hill. The townhouses lining the square have an average value of over $6.7 million, with many selling for well over $10 million.
The houses on Louisburg Square were built primarily in the 1840s, but the area was first settled back in the 1600's. Rev. William Blaxton moved to this part of Beacon Hill from Charlestown, where the Puritans had settled, to enjoy more peace and quiet.
From the time of the first house, the neighborhood was the most fashionable address in Boston. Famous names from shipping and merchant banking, such as Cabot and Appleton, used to call the square home, as well as some famous artistic figures. Charles Bulfinch, the architect of the Massachusetts State House and portions of the US Capital Building, lived in the square, as did Louisa May Alcott and artist John Singleton Copley. Today, US Secretary of State John Kerry lives on Louisburg Square.
Practical Info
Louisburg Square itself, the grassy park surrounded by a wrought-iron fence, is not open to the public. You can see the statues of Columbus and Aristides the Just from outside the fences, on Mt. Vernon Street and Pinckney Street. Louisburg Square is a popular stop on photography tours of Beacon Hill and cycling tours of Boston.
Address: Louisburg Square, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
From $ 58