Eco-Conscious Travel In Massachusetts

Massachusetts Eco Travel

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.

North of Boston

Stemming from a strong maritime history, these coastal towns in the North of Boston region are passionate about ocean conservation and and wildlife sanctuaries. The working farms, endless hiking trails, and bike paths take visitors on a tour of the best the state has to offer for eco-friendly guests. Plus, some of the freshest seafood can be found in this region directly from a local fishing boat.

Attractions

Maritime Gloucester

23 HARBOR LOOP, GLOUCESTER, MA 01930

Maritime Gloucester's mission is to inspire students and visitors to value marine science, maritime heritage, and environmental stewardship through hands-on education and experiences.

Location Visit

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.

Visit

Camping

Harold Parker State Forest

133 JENKINS RD, ANDOVER, MA 01810

The campground at Harold Parker State Forest is small but sweet. It has 89 campsites, some with electrical hookups, and all with plenty of shade and privacy.

Location Visit

Dining

Mile Marker One Waterfront Restaurant and Bar

75 ESSEX AVE, GLOUCESTER, MA 01930

Offering a variety of fresh dishes from seafood, oysters, lobster rolls, steak, salads, sandwiches, burgers, appetizers, and more that they create using fresh, local, and in-season ingredients. All the seafood is locally sourced and fresh (never frozen) off the Gloucester fishermen’s boats.

Location Visit

Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall

43 CHURCH ST, SALEM, MA 01970

Turner’s Seafood at Lyceum Hall provides classic lunch and dinner fare, creative daily specials, authentic shuck and serve oyster bar, and the city’s only seafood market.

Location Visit

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.

Visit

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary

87 PERKINS ROW, TOPSFIELD, MA 01983

With over 12 miles of trails spread out across the sanctuary, this is an ideal opportunity to see wildlife such as river otters, turtles, wetland birds, and even the occasional deer.

Location Visit

Babson Boulder Tarr Trail and Common Road

GLOUCESTER, MA

Discover this 7.4-mile trail loop that provides an opportunity for bird watching, cross-country skiing, and hiking.

Location Visit

Halibut Point State Park

GOTT AVE, ROCKPORT, MA 01966

Visitors can explore the park's trails and tide pools, picnic on the rocky ledges, and learn about the park's World-War II history and the Cape Ann granite industry history.

Location Visit

Lodging

Archer Hotel Burlington

18 3RD AVE, BURLINGTON, MA 01803

This boutique hotel has a signature industrial-chic style brimming with curated local touches. The hotel is passionate about sustainability and chooses to partner with sustainable brands, as well as the nonprofit One Tree Planted.

Location Visit

Briar Barn Inn

101 MAIN ST, ROWLEY, MA 01969

Briar Barn Inn is a distinctive farmhouse experience that reimagines rustic comfort in a quaint New England setting.

Location Visit

Blue Inn on the Beach

20 FORDHAM WAY, NEWBURY, MA 01951

With a golden sand beach and sweeping ocean views, the Plum Island hotel offers a unique vantage point to experience the beauty of the Atlantic seacoast.

Location Visit

Working Farms

Cider Hill Farm

45 FERN AVE, AMESBURY, MA 01913

Stop by this family-run farm and pick your own strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, plums, nectarines, pears, pumpkins, and apples.

Location Visit

Appleton Farms

MA-1A, South Hamilton, MA 01982

Visitors learn about cheese-making, where maple syrup comes from, how to milk a cow, and so much more. Say hello to cows, goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens before picnicking on the beautiful grounds.

Location Visit