Eco-Conscious Travel In Massachusetts
Allured by forests, beaches, lakes, and wildlife, travelers are drawn to the natural bounty of Massachusetts. The Bay State is committed to responsible tourism, and to the preservation of its environment for future generations to enjoy. For those who want to travel consciously, here’s where to learn about eco-friendly attractions, activities, dining, transportation, and lodging in Massachusetts.
- Western Massachusetts
Explore mountains, farms, and farm-to-table eateries
- Central Massachusetts
Find local orchards, bike trails, waterfalls, and campsites for slow travel
- North of Boston
Explore the Massachusetts coast, through wildlife sanctuaries, maritime history, and more
- Greater Boston
Discover eco-friendly experiences, from sustainable restaurants to green accommodations
- South of Boston
Adventure along the South Shore and immerse yourself in nature
- Cape Cod & The Islands
A year-round oasis of coastal adventures and eco-conscious offerings
Greater Boston
While Greater Boston is the metropolitan hub of the state, it still has plenty to offer eco-conscious travelers. There are a wide variety of green accommodations, delicious sustainable restaurants, and a robust public transportation system for those trying to reduce emissions. While Greater Boston is a popular destination for many, its eco-friendly offerings are sure to surprise and delight all travelers.
Attractions
Mass Audubon
VARIOUS LOCATIONS
To experience wildlife all-year round, explore the Mass Audubon to find local wildlife sanctuaries in Massachusetts, including Straitsmouth Island Wildlife Sanctuary and Marblehead Neck Wildlife Sanctuary.
Camping
Boston Harbor Islands
191W ATLANTIC AVE, BOSTON, MA 02110
Part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, this small collection of roughly 34 islands is located just off of Boston. While some allow camping and other recreational activities, others are preserved only for wildlife, especially seabirds.
Dining
The Farmhouse
970 GREAT PLAIN AVE, NEEDHAM, MA 02492
This cozy, farm-to-table restaurant sources organic and local ingredients for all of its dishes. Dora and Gabriel, the owners, have even journeyed around New England to use reclaimed wood from barns being torn down and old dilapidated farmhouses to create the warm atmosphere.
Hiking
Department of Conservation and Recreation
VARIOUS LOCATIONS
Experience Massachusetts’ state parks by pitching a tent and camping under the stars at various locations across the state.
The Skyline Loop Trail at Middlesex Fells Reservation
4 WOODLAND RD, STONEHAM, MA 01280
Incorporating over 6,000 acres of land, Middlesex Fells Reservation features the skyline trail — one of the most famous hikes in this state park as it is known for its spectacular view of the Boston skyline at the summit.
Lodging
Irving House
24 IRVING ST, CAMBRIDGE, MA 02138
Irving House is the proud winner of several green awards for its environmental efforts at the national, state, and local level. Efforts include recycling and composting, reporting energy, water, and waste use to the EPA, LED lights, using renewable energy when possible, and more.