No matter where you are in Massachusetts, there’s a unique, fun event or activity to get you out under the sun. From the mountains to the coast, here are some of our favorite outdoor spots for recreation and relaxation around the state.
Greater Boston
Summer is the perfect time to experience America’s Walking City. History buffs can’t miss the Freedom Trail, a collection of 16 historic revolutionary-era sites throughout Boston and Charlestown. Along the way, you’ll pass by the Boston Common and the Boston Public Garden, two of the oldest and best public parks in the country.
On sunny days renting a kayak and setting off on Charles River between Boston and Cambridge will give you one of the best and most unique views of Boston’s iconic skyline.
Along the coast of the Charles, the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade presents family-friendly activities all summer, including free concerts and movie showings! Keep an eye on their calendar for upcoming events.
Cape Cod & the Islands
On Cape Cod, summer means it is time for the beach. The Cape has nearly 600 miles of coastline, including the pristine Cape Cod National Seashore, which means no matter where you are, you’ll have options.
In between tanning sessions on the beach, check out Old King’s Highway between Bourne and Orleans – one of the state’s National Scenic Byways and an amazing summer drive if you’re excited by beautiful coastal views.
In July, the Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival gives visitors and locals alike the chance to tour private gardens and learn about gardening from top horticulturalists.
North of Boston
Hungry? We hope so, because the summer is the best time of year to get some of the finest seafood in the world. Only in Massachusetts will you find Gloucester, America’s oldest seaport. There you can not only get fresh seafood, but you can also often meet the people who caught it. A little inland, you need to stop by the place where the fried clam was invented – Woodman’s of Essex.
In Lincoln, don’t miss the deCordova Sculpture Park, a great place to experience contemporary art in an outdoor environment. The park contains over 60 sculptures across 30 acres and is regularly updated so you’ll always spot something new.
South of Boston
On select Fridays in New Bedford’s historic downtown, the streets come alive for special block parties full of live music, local food, and culture for the Summer Sound Series. These community events are a great way to experience the city.
In late July, don’t miss the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, one of the largest celebrations of Portuguese culture in the world. The feast has taken place in New Bedford for over a century. Expect live music, family fun, and authentic Portuguese food and wine.
In Mansfield, the Xfinity Center is one of the state’s most popular outdoor venues, regularly attracting top talent for fun and lively performances in a setting that is still intimate.
Central Massachusetts
If you love plants, trees, and flowers, you need to stop by one of the best botanic gardens in the country this summer – Boylston’s New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. There is no bad time to visit, but throughout the summer they schedule daily events for plant lovers of all ages, including kids and families.
In Worcester, Mass Audubon’s Broad Meadow Brook is the largest urban wildlife sanctuary in New England is a great place to hike, relax, and try to spot all of the different species that call the 400-acre area home.
Western Massachusetts
If the arts are more your style, Western Massachusetts is the place to be. You won’t want to miss the annual dance festival at Jacob’s Pillow, which takes place every summer between June and August. The summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the legendary Tanglewood, also hosts local and nationally recognized performers all season long.
Thrill seekers might want to try Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont, where you can go ziplining, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, or ride one of the longest mountain coasters in the country – The Thunderbolt.
Whether you’re flying down a mountain or relaxing by the waves, Massachusetts is calling you this summer. Pack your sunscreen and get planning today.
