An Unforgettable Summer in Massachusetts

Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

Because we all know the two most beautiful words in the English language are summer afternoon…

Summer is that inevitable time of year when all year-round routine halts. We find ourselves at the kitchen table doing Google searches and posting social media statuses, asking our friends/family for recommendations on what to do. For those of you planning to visit Massachusetts, I have good news! This article will serve as a quick guide on things you can do outdoors this summer.

Photo Credit: Charles Riverboat Tour

There are probably 101 ways to enjoy the Charles River this summer. You’ll just want to decide if you’d prefer to relish the picturesque view from the banks or get a little adventurous. Either way, the Charles River offers a variety of enjoyable activities, such as kayaking, sailing, taking a Duck Tour, having a picnic on the Esplanade, or taking a Charles Riverboat Tour. A jaunty way to get around the city is using the convenient bike-renting system called BLUEbikes.

Photo Credit: Boston Harbor Cruises

Going from city to marine life and back in less than a day, this experience is sure to provide a joyous outing.

Another essential Massachusetts experience is visiting our mammal friends at the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary (aka the glorious, ocean space off the coastline!) for three hours of Whale Watching. This tour by Boston Harbor Cruises includes knowledgeable commentary from experts and a guaranteed sighting of the whales (free ticket to return if you happen to miss the whales). And if you love the water, consider making a visit to the Harbor Islands.

Photo Credit: Friends of the Public Garden

As a student in Boston, most days I appreciate the opportunity to pay nothing for fun-filled freebies (with a great view!). Picnics in parks, such as Boston Common and Boston Public Garden, are an unparalleled way to let go of all your hovering stress and soak up the sunshine. Add a hammock, music, and some friends, and this will be your new favorite summer thing to do.

Photo Credit: Gillette Stadium

The Commonwealth is always buzzing with concerts and performances from prominent talented artists.

For Music Concert lovers, Massachusetts has the perfect combination of ideal concert locations that align with diverse music genres and their respective devotees, like Xfinity Centre in Mansfield, Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, and House of Bles in Boston.

Sports Fans, of course I didn’t forget you! From hanging out at local sports bars to watching a Red Sox game at Fenway, the friendly-competition vibe is everywhere. Even if you’re not into sports, like me, you will find yourself picking teams and enjoying the energetic setting.

Photo Credit: Norman Rockwell Museum

Needless to say, Massachusetts is a historically significant state, with rich backstories and prominent Museums for all ages. Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum of Art are just some of the notable depository of archives within Boston itself, perfect for a weekend in the city. Beyond Boston, you can visit the Harvard Museum of Natural History (Cambridge), Norman Rockwell Museum (Stockbridge), Whaling Museum (Nantucket), Peabody Essex Museum (Salem), Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum (Provincetown), The Clark (Williamstown), and Worcester Art Museum (Worcester). The list goes on!

Photo Credit: Heritage Museum & Gardens

Other areas of Massachusetts also contain wonderful opportunities for summer memories waiting to be made.

Berkshire East in Charlemont welcomes adventurous zipping enthusiasts, and also provides the Mountain Top Tour. For an excursion into parks, beaches, wineries, and breweries – visit Plymouth. Tanglewood in Lenox is a great resting spot for a picnic and some classical music brought to you by the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Cape Cod is another great destination for beach resorts and day spas, with plenty to see, such as the Heritage Museum and Gardens, The Cape Playhouse, and Provincetown Library.

Photo Credit: Margo Tabb

Speaking of beaches, no summer is complete without at least a weekend in the sand and sun. The beaches in Massachusetts are ideal for a lazy afternoon of splashing in the water and relaxing in the sun. Some of the recommended beaches are Coast Guard Beach (Eastham), Singing Beach (Manchester), Horseneck Beach State Reservation (Westport), Race Point Beach (Provincetown), and Crane Beach (Ipswich).

Summer is the ultimate time to de-stress and get your body in the best shape of the year, so make sure to make some time for fun as well. Make this an unforgettable summer in Massachusetts!

Feature photo, credit: Boston Duck Tours

TOPICS: Boston, Cape & Islands, Central MA, Entertainment, Family Fun, Greater Boston, Outdoors, Summer, Things to Do, Western MA