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Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

From historic sights to beautiful beaches, fine dining to plush accommodations, Massachusetts is home to plenty of romantic places and activities.

Although Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, there’s still plenty of time to plan a last-minute weekend trip, if you haven’t framed one out in advance.
Today, we’ve handpicked five places across the Commonwealth that are always good for a getaway with someone special. Here they are, in no particular order.
1. Boston, MA
Frog Pond

Photo: Ice Skating at Frog Pond in the Boston Common via MOTT

With happening bars and restaurants, luxurious hotels and historic charm aplenty, it’s no surprise that Boston was named one of the 10 best North American romantic winter getaways by USA Today this past January. Gazing out at the Charles River from the Esplanade is always an enjoyable way to watch the sun set before heading off to one of the many Italian restaurants in the North End for dinner.
For those who don’t mind the chilly weather, ice-skating at Frog Pond in the Boston Common Frog Pond makes for a nice day out. If you’re looking for a dreamy date on Boston’s waterfront, the 25th annual Boston Wine Festival still has tickets available for its Champagne Dinner Dance on February 15th and Valentine Champagne Brunch on February 16th at Rowes Wharf. Or, if you prefer a day indoors, visiting the New England Aquarium or Isabella Gardner Museum is always a fun way to spend the day with that special someone.
2. Nantucket
Along with Boston, Nantucket was also in the running to be named by USA Today as a top North American romantic escape, and we can certainly understand why. With some of the state’s most beautiful beaches, unique shops and stunning art galleries, Nantucket is the perfect place for a quiet, romantic getaway any time of year.
Watch the sun rise (or set) over the ocean at Sconset or Madaket beach, or take a trip to the Nantucket Whaling Museum, which opens for the season the day after Valentine’s Day, to explore a little history. For a fine dining experience at an award-winning restaurant, try Topper’s Tidbits within The Wauwinet, or check out the live music at Cisco Brewers. For a place to stay, the Nantucket Hotel & Resort is offering a special Valentine’s Day weekend package that’s certainly worth a look. With so much to do on the Island, Nantucket is a beautiful place to spend the weekend and reconnect with your Valentine.
Brant Point

Photo: Brant Point Light on Nantucket via MOTT

3. Martha’s Vineyard
MV

Photo: Blue moon rising at Aquinnah on Martha’s Vineyard

Like Boston and Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard was recently acknowledged as one of America’s most romantic cities. For those who have never experienced the island’s beauty, Valentine’s Day offers the perfect excuse!
A variety of hotels, such as Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites, Edgartown’s Hob Knob and the Harbor View Hotel all have Valentine’s Weekend specials, with tempting treats like chocolate, roses and champagne available at check-in. The Vineyard also prides itself on its farm-to-table restaurants, and with some of the freshest seafood around, there are so many options for delicious places to dine with your date, including the iconic Black Dog Tavern. Plus, with its miles of breathtaking beaches and shops up and down Main Street, the Vineyard has plenty to do and see when you aren’t relaxing indoors or dining out.
4. The Berkshires
Berkshires

Photo: Berkshires scenery during the winter

Another truly romantic winter wonderland in MA is the Berkshires. Whether you’re looking for an outing at a fascinating museum, a trip to an art gallery or a delicious place to dine, each of the towns nestled in the Berkshires has something to offer. There are a multitude of events going on Valentine’s Weekend, including a free full-moon snowshoe hike, Shakespeare & Company’s performance of Private Lives and an intimate evening of jazz music presented by Berkshires Jazz. The Kemble Inn in Lenox is also offering a Valentine’s Weekend deal, including a half bottle of champagne and dinner for two, which might pique the interest of any couple making a trip together.
5. Wachusett Mountain

Wachusett

Photo: Wachusett Mountain at night via MOTT

Looking for a little Valentine’s Day adventure? Always mentioned as one of the best ski areas in Massachusetts, Wachusett Mountain has 22 trails, 8 lifts, late-night skiing and tons of dining options, the perfect Valentine’s Day destination for ski enthusiasts and for couples eager to try something new.
On February 14th, Valentine’s Day itself, enjoy a special holiday menu at the Black Diamond Restaurant, and save money on lift tickets and ski lessons if you wear red on the slopes. The Wachusett Village Inn is located just four miles from the slopes, so you also won’t have to travel far before you can relax after a day of skiing.
For a little more Massachusetts romance inspiration, take a peek at our “Pure Romance” board on massvacation.com.
Do you have any suggestions on other romantic spots in MA? Where will you be spending Valentine’s Day this year? Let us know in the comments section below!

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