Dive Into Our History
Take a historic journey through these immersive attractions and experiences, and imagine yourself back in time to experience our nation’s rich history, so much of which began right here in Massachusetts. Explore Plymouth, where the Pilgrims came ashore on the Mayflower in 1620, journey through Central Massachusetts to see what early life was like on New England farms at the start of the Industrial Revolution, and head to Western Massachusetts, the birthplace of women’s suffrage leader Susan B. Anthony. Along the way, you will hear the stories and explore the places that have shaped our American history.
- Western Massachusetts
Discover historic women and walk back in time
- Central Massachusetts
Explore history up close
- North of Boston
Celebrate Massachusetts revolutionary history
- Greater Boston
Follow the footsteps of American political and cultural heroes
- South of Boston
Experience the maritime history of Massachusetts
- Cape Cod & The Islands
Find the tallest all-granite structure in the U.S.
North of Boston
North of Boston has many stories to share of revolutionaries, literary giants, and the women who launched the labor movement. Start at Buckman Tavern, where Minutemen gathered in the early hours of April 19, 1775, then crossed the street to Lexington Battle Green, where the first shots of the Revolutionary War were fired.
At Minute Man Historic Park in Concord — just 10 minutes from Lexington — stand on Old North Bridge, the site of the “shot heard ‘round the world,” and walk the restored 19th-century grounds, featuring the famous Minute Man statue by Daniel Chester French. Be sure to visit the peaceful Author’s Ridge at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, the final resting place of authors Henry David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Louisa May Alcott.
Then head north to Lowell National Historical Park, which honors the beginnings of our nation’s Industrial Revolution. Walking through the Boott Cotton Mills Museum, you can hear the deafening roar of the textile looms, along with stories of the women, mostly young immigrants, who toiled at the Spinner City’s water-powered mills. You can also see where they slept and ate, and learn how they contributed to America’s early labor movement.
Finally, any trip to North of Boston would be incomplete without a stop in Salem. Swing by the Salem Witch Museum, where you can learn all about the infamous trials of 1692 (pro tip: purchase your tickets online before arrival!) After that, be sure to check out the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, which celebrates Salem’s pivotal role in over 600 years of maritime history and global impact. It’s also the first National Historic Site in the country! Wrap up your day with a bite at Ledger, an upscale restaurant located in the former Salem Savings Bank. Executive Chef Daniel Gursha was nominated for “Best Chef Northeast” by the James Beard Foundation.
Attractions
Dining & Lodging
