15 Best Things to Do in Abington (MA)
This town on the South Shore has extraordinary ties to the Respectful War. For a few 20 long time, Abington was the location of a yearly Abolitionist assembly, held at what is presently Island Woods Stop, a beautiful open space following a lake. Within the 1810s the mass production of press tacks was spearheaded in Abington and laid the basis for a burgeoning shoe and boot industry. Nearly half of all the footwear made for the Union Armed force within the Gracious War came from manufacturing plants here in Abington. This angle of Abington’s legacy can be acknowledged at a Respectful War place to stay at Island Forest Stop amid the town’s Founders’ Day celebration. For half a century from 1941, a gigantic maritime discussion field occupied an enormous piece of Abington, and you’ll get to a parcel of this space on preservation arriving at Thompson’s Lake. 1. Oktoberfest Since the mid-2010s, Abington has put on a family-situated celebration on the moment end of the week in October. Oktoberfest blends German and Halloween-themed occasions and exercises, with light-hearted fun like a canine ensemble challenge, a carved pumpkin challenge, an open house at the Dyer Commemoration Library, and a children’s outfit parade. There’s a commercial center on Saturday, with merchants, crafters, and music, as well as a family celebration on Sunday, with a have of exercises for kids, a larger cultivate for adults, and an execution by the Twofold Hawk Oktoberfest German Band. 2. Barrett’s Haunted Mansion One of the beat alarms within the locale, Abington incorporates a frequented house that’s presently in its fourth decade. Barrett’s Frequented House is two attractions in one, with an unnerving path through the most house, and Condemned (at the time of composing), in which you enter an ancient chemical lab, fixed off and slithering with mutants. There’s a number of uncommon occasions all through the season in September and October, counting lights-on visits on Saturdays, once you can appreciate the make and cherish that goes into the scenarios, props, ensembles, and cosmetics. 3. Abington Summer Concerts Summers in Abington wouldn’t be the same without this yearly arrangement of concerts in July and Admirable. The organize is the Catherine and Joseph Nisby Bandstand another to Abington Town Lobby, with the broad field obliging shockingly huge swarms for these appears. Concerts take put on Sunday nights, highlighting entertainers from a extend of classes, whether you’re within the temperament for the soul, classic shake, nation, doo-wop, jazz, or 80s pop hits. One Night amid the Season is particularly for kids, with swell craftsmanship, instructive intriguing creature showings, and confront portray. 4. High Voltage Paintball Covered up in more than 20 sections of land of woods nearby in Holbrook, Tall Voltage Paintball invites walk-ins on Saturdays and Sundays. There’s an incredible assortment of territories on offer here, from the profound cover of the woodsball areas to the open speedball field. The office is additionally prepared for all sorts of diversion modes, whether you’re attacking/defending a key peak or bunker, playing bomb the base, or capturing the hail. All the gear you wish to induce is accessible here, and the mindful staff makes beyond any doubt the amusement remains secure. 5. Strawberry Valley Golf Course For a no-frills circular golf, Abington has a great metropolitan course in for the most part open parkland on the south side of the town. Strawberry Valley Golf Course may be a 9-hole track that plays generally brief, so is perfect in case you’re fair beginning out, or need to work on your iron play and brief amusement. The course is well kept up, contains a great pace of play, and speaks to astonishing esteem for cash. Within the winter the course’s rolling format gets to be idealized sledding territory for nearby kids. 6. Thompson Pond Trail The previous location of the South Weymouth Maritime Discuss Station is enormous and can be navigated along this path framework. The Thompson Lake Path is overseen by the Wildlands Believe, and gotten to from Spruce St on the Abington-Rockland line. Out and back, the Thompson Lake Path is fair beneath two miles long, crossing the lasting French Stream, and bringing you to the pleasant northern shore of the lake where you’ll discover an area of boardwalk and seats. At the trailhead you’ll be able to head off along the Twin Lakes Path into Rockland, whereas south of Spruce St is the 40+ section of land Rockland Town Woodland, holding up to be found. 7. Naval Air Station Weymouth (Control Tower) From 1941 to 1997 a US Naval Force Runway involved a huge scope of Abington, Weymouth, and Rockland. Maritime Discuss Station Weymouth was a dirigible base amid World War II, and after that, it became a portion of the Maritime Discuss Save Preparing Command. The arrival has steadily been given over to the particular towns since the mid-90s, incompletely for redevelopment ventures like Union Point. Other ranges have been cleared out open, and you’ll visit the Wildlands Believe Protect to gage the astonishing scale of the landing strip, where the runways were once as long as 7,000 feet. We’ll conversation almost Thompson Trail below, but a few ways north of there, off Adams St, you’ll get to the ancient control tower, still intaglio in spite of the fact that presently appearing its age, and went with by a number of rotting shelter narrows. 8. 10th District Brewing Company Established by two childhood companions who developed up here in Abington, the 10th Locale Brewing Company opened in 2014, and is presently accessible at a number of bars and eateries from Body to Holbrook. You’ll go to the source in Abington, where there’s a tavern with plentiful dog-friendly open-air space. Among the brews on tap at the time of composing were a choice of IPAs, a Gose, a Kolsch, a shelled nut Forceful, and a few less customary manifestations like a jalapeño lager and a lime acrid. You’ll buy cans or fill growlers here, whereas flights are accessible
15 Best Things to Do in Longmeadow (MA)
Springfield, a wealthy suburb on the east bank of the Connecticut River, was first settled in the mid-17th century. Until 1894, Longmeadow was part of East He was part of Longmeadow, and the town was noted for its sandstone quarries, from which material was extracted for large projects such as the Smithsonian Museum building (1855). Preserved as a US Historic District, Town Green is a quintessential central community district surrounded by impressive old homes and is still the site of public gatherings such as the Long He Meadows Fall Festival. Downtown Springfield is just a stone’s throw from Longmeadow, and the town offers easy access to his two summer farmers’ markets, elegant Forest Park, and Six Flags New England, the region’s largest theme park. 1. The Olde Burying Yarde For those interested in early Longmeadow history, the town’s original cemetery has much to learn. This is part of Longmeadow Cemetery behind the First Church of Christ in Town Green, the oldest sign being his 1682. The Longmeadow Historical Society organizes self-guided walking tours of the Old Burying Ground starting at the western end of Williams Street, which can be accessed on their website. In this guide, interpretations of the inscriptions and symbols inscribed on each stone are detailed to provide a vivid insight into the life and death of Longmeadow from the 17th century to the 18th century. 2. Riverfront Conservation Area Another public location in Longmeadow with access to the banks of the Connecticut River is the city-owned nature reserve off Anthony Road, next to the Pioneer Valley Yacht Club. With 300 feet of tranquil grassy shoreline shaded by mature trees, the Riverfront Preserve is the perfect place to relax late into the day with great views. You can set sail here in a canoe or kayak, or pack a blanket and enjoy a quiet picnic under the trees on a sunny day. 3. Alex’s Bagel Shop A popular long-established bagel store on Route 5 across from Laurel Park moved to this location in 2018. Alex’s bagel shop landed here after her former landlord, the supermarket chain Big Y, asked her to evict the old building. This sparked a surge of love, with more than 1,000 people signing a petition asking the supermarket to keep it open and not force them out of town. Generations have grown up eating Alex’s bagels. Freshly cooked and baked, they come in an assortment of signature flavors such as sesame, poppy, onion, cumin, and raisins. A variety of cream cheese flavors are also available, all in 8 oz containers. 4. Springfield Strolling through Longmeadow’s stately residential streets, it’s easy to forget that the bustling city is just minutes away. Springfield is his third-largest city in Massachusetts, where the United States’ first military arsenal was founded, basketball was invented, and the popular children’s author, Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel) was born in 1904. With more than 30 colleges located along the famous Corridor of Knowledge, it’s no wonder Springfield has some great museums. Many of these are located in The He Quadrangle, where you can ponder the art of the Impressionists, visit the nation’s first planetarium, admire artifacts from around the world, and learn all about Dr. Sousse can be experienced. The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is housed in a giant silver sphere on the waterfront, and the Springfield Armory is a National Historic Site with one of the world’s largest collections of firearms. 5. Enfield Regional Farmers’ Market One reason to make the short jump across the state line to Enfield, Connecticut, is to browse this bustling farmer’s market with dozens of stalls each week. The Enfield Regional Farmers Market is a Sunday event held at Town Green from June to October, but in recent years has moved to Enfield Square Mall, where the indoor market continues until the last Sunday before Christmas. The selection changes seasonally and includes fresh produce from local farms, grass-fed meats, eggs, honey, herbs, baked goods, freshly roasted coffee, pet treats, numerous artisan vendors, and more. There is always live music and several food trucks serving wood-fired pizzas and pierogi. 6. Max Burger One of two chains, Max Burger is an acclaimed restaurant far beyond Longmeadow, an upscale burger joint with many gastropub hallmarks. That means a seasonal cocktail menu and a beer menu that includes imported Belgian beers and local craft beers. Max Burger caters to those on a plant-based diet, offering not only veggie patties but also the Impossible Burger. On the same theme, the sweet potato fries are also excellent. For starters, the candied bacon lollipop with cider glaze is exceptional, and a must-try main course for meat eaters is the Lord Rest Truffle with Gruyère and black truffle relish. 7. Six Flags New England New England’s largest theme and water park is just across the Connecticut River from Longmeadow, but you’ll have to drive around Springfield to get there. At 235 acres, Six Flags New England is the chain’s oldest park, attracting fun-seekers in the 1870s with picnic groves along the river. From this lavish beginning, the park has grown into a thrill-seeking Mecca with ground-breaking DC-style rides such as Harley Quinn Spin Sanity, Superman the Ride, and Batman.Dark Knight and Joker 4D Free Fly Coaster. Six Flags New England also has three dedicated kid’s areas and a huge Hurricane Harbor Water park with over 30 slides and his 500,000-gallon wave pool. 8. Long Meddowe Fall Festival This long-running festival, now sponsored and hosted by the city’s American Legion Post 175, was formerly known as Long Meadow Days and has been held for over 40 years. Over a weekend in early October, Town Green is the traditional venue for the festival, with long alleyways lined with stalls selling all manner of crafts, arts, and food. There are a variety of activities on offer that will appeal to young families, but there are also musician appearances, non-profit visits, car shows, and more. 9. The Longmeadow Shops The closest
15 Best Things to Do in Grafton (MA)
Grafton is a loose cluster of historic mill villages southeast of Worcester in the Blackstone Valley. During the Industrial Revolution from the late 18th century, Grafton was known for industries as diverse as shoemaking and furniture making and was the birthplace of watchmaking in America. The site of the first European settlement in the 1720s, Grafton Common has a tranquil atmosphere with towering trees and historic buildings such as the Grafton Inn, which has been open to tourists since 1806. Grafton has many interesting local businesses to explore, from popular lakeside ice cream stands to cheese shops importing all manner of gourmet treats from Europe. 1. Highfields Golf & Country Club Grafton offers a round of golf at one of the area’s best public golf courses. This is the Highfields Golf & Country Club he opened in 2002 on the grounds that were part of the McGill Dairy Farm. Avid golfer, John McGill commissioned Cornish Golf his design Mugeim to design a superior layout for his over 220-acre property on the edge of Blackstone Valley to accommodate golfers of all levels while challenging even the most experienced players. Vast hills and breathtaking scenery characterize this course. The 18 holes take you on a journey through open terrain, wetlands, and lush natural forests. Between rounds, you can socialize at his J&J Tavern, which serves delicious pub food with views of the 18th Green and the practice area. 2. Lake Ripple Dam Drive north from Grafton Common along Worcester Street and in a few minutes you’ll see the lush banks of this 70-acre dam. The Ripple Lake Dam was built on the Quincegamond River in 1982 and has several spots where you can descend to the surface. They are open to the public at the very scenic Ekbrow Landing canoe and kayak launch at 111 Worcester Street to the north. Here, at the northern end of the lake, it tapers to a picnic area and is abundant with birds in the summer. A Grafton-owned gravel road is located on the south side of Brigham Hill Road, near which you can access the Grafton Land Trust trail. More on this later. According to the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, fishing is abundant with chain pickers, largemouth bass, and carp. 3. Pecorino There are plenty of local shops around Grafton that are worth perusing. One of the best of them all is Pecorino, a European-style cheese shop. A foodie’s Aladdin’s Cave, this place offers a delicious selection of local and imported cheeses, from Gouda to Gorgonzola, all cut and packaged to order. An extensive selection of complementary specialties is also available, including charcuterie, fresh bread, crackers, spreads, honey, jams, olive oil, vinegar, nuts, dried fruits, and a selection of handcrafted European treats. For the perfect pairing, head to our wine boutique with bottles from small, sustainable producers and our selection of craft beers. 4. Swirls & Scoops Seasonal ice cream stands along Worcester Street and on the east shore of Ripple Lake make Grafton’s summer a little sweeter. Each year, Swirls & Scoop will be open for six months from April to September, offering about 50 hard serves, as well as flavor burst soft serve ice cream, sundaes, dairy-free Dole whips, frappes, ice cream floats, and frozen lemonades. Everyone has their favorite hard ice cream flavor, but notable ones include maple walnut, s’mores, black raspberry, cake batter, chocolate peanut butter, and pistachio. 5. Hassanamesit Woods A quiet corner of South Grafton is home to over 500 acres of forest managed jointly by the city’s Conservation and History Commissions. With that in mind, the Hassanamesit Woods Main Loop Trail offers a variety of downloadable guides, whether you want to learn more about the natural environment and the forest’s hidden human history, or you’re looking for an educational pastime for your kids. Evidence of human habitation is found in stone walls, granite blocks with pit marks, pits in cellars, tracks of wagons, and multiple felled tree trunks. Naturalist guides lead trails that lead from oak forests to white pine forests to wetlands. 6. Airport Park The city’s public parks with the best facilities are located in North West Grafton. Airport Park’s playground has plenty of equipment for all skill levels, and a separate jungle gym and swings for younger children and those aged 5-12. There is also a soccer field, two spectator baseball fields, and a basketball court, and the entire complex is surrounded by a fully paved outdoor walkway. Another option for parents is Perry Hill Park (3 Perry St), with well-maintained playgrounds and picnic areas just minutes north. 7. Hassanamisco Native American Museum As part of a larger tribe called the Nipmuk Nation, the Hassanamisco Nipmuk Nation owns an 11-acre state-granted reservation in Grafton on the southwest shore of Lake Ripple. Of course, Nipmuk’s history predates written records, but present-day Grafton became a “City of Prayer” when Puritan missionary John Eliot (1604-1690) converted the Hassanamikos family to Christianity in the mid-17th century. Their reserves can be traced back to 1727, when they were first acquired by Sarah Robbins, a Nipmac woman, and have been passed down by generations of women since. The homestead here is the oldest known frame house in the area to continue to be inhabited by Native Americans, and the reservation was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. At the time of this writing, the museum at this key location was temporarily closed for renovations. 8. Off the Common Antiques In a place like Grafton Common where history is on every page, it’s natural to find great antique shops. It’s just a short walk from Green on Worcester Street and has a wonderful home in an old petrol station that’s over 100 years old. Off the Common, Antiques is much larger than it looks from the outside. A dog-friendly, accessible store that sells furniture, decorative arts, vintage clothing, and more. In addition to antique treasures, the store also stocks contemporary
15 Best Things to Do in Somerset (MA)
This south-coast city sits on a narrow strip of land along the Taunton River at the head of Mount Hope Bay. In 2022, Joe Biden traveled to Somerset to deliver a speech on climate change. The location is no coincidence, as the southern tip of Somerset was until recently home to a large coal-fired Brayton Point power station, which closed in 2017. The city of Somerset was incorporated in 1790 and you can get a sense of its early days by going north of the city. Lined with tall mature trees, the Somerset Village Historic District is home to many historic public and residential buildings, including the Somerset Historical Society Museum. Across the river is the town of Fall River, where a luxurious World War II fleet is anchored along the Braga Bridge at Battleship Cove. 1. Battleship Cove No mention of this section of the Taunton River is complete without mentioning the incredible concentration of World War II naval vessels moored across the river. Less than 10 minutes from Somerset, Battleship Cove is home to the world’s largest WWII museum collection of ships. Her eight ships await you here. The largest of these ships is the flagship USS Massachusetts. She was launched in 1941 and served very well throughout the war without any of her crew of US Marines dying. Also ready for boarding are the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. (1945), the submarine USS Lionfish (1943), and the German corvette Hiddensee, which she built in 1984 at the Petrovsky Shipyard in Leningrad (St. Petersburg). 2. Fall River Heritage State Park The city’s waterfront parks surrounding Battleship Cove are bustling with activity, and there are plenty of good reasons to cross in five minutes in the summer. Much of the program focuses on the Hudner Memorial and features everything from art and history rotations in community galleries to hands-on workshops and dance. There are benches along the promenade where you can admire the battleships surrounded by the Braga Bridge in awe. At the southern end is the Fall River Carousel, built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company in 1920, with an ice cream stand nearby. 3. Auclair’s Market Across County Street in Somerset Creamery is a thriving independent grocery store since 1918. Eau Clairs His Market was founded by Canadian immigrants who worked as slaves in a Fall River factory to save money to open their own businesses. Originally located in Fall River, Eau Claire’s Market moved across the Taunton River in the second generation, and the current store was opened in 2000 by the founder’s grandson Dennis and his wife Dorothy Eau Claire. This store has been known for its butcher counter for over a century. Think tenderloin, ribeye, various boneless hams, chicken and the famous gray corned beef. The deli counter is also a big draw, with delicious hams and cheeses, as well as all kinds of prepared meals, from salads to cured dishes like roast chicken, dinner cakes, and pulled pork. 4. Simcock Farm Five minutes from Swansea, this fourth-generation farm has a popular ice cream stand serving award-winning Gifford ice cream. Choose from over 40 delicious hard ice cream flavors, plus frozen yogurt, sherbet, and sugar-free options. There are picnic tables in the back, and watching livestock such as donkeys, goats, sheep, miniature horses, and miniature cows is one of the pleasures of Simcok Farm. The farm also hosts seasonal events, attractions, and activities such as hay wagon rides, corn mazes, sunflower mazes, PYO pumpkins, and summer cruise nights. 5. Factory of Terror This haunted mansion, touted as the best in New England, is another excellent reason to cross the Taunton River during the spooky season. The Factory of Terror, which is appropriately housed in a dismal industrial structure, attracts a devoted following with each new season by adding fresh thrills to its maze-like trail. There were other cleverly crafted encounters the year we authored this piece, including a zombie that materializes from a portal to another dimension. The character performances, make-up, and props all contribute to the immersion, and there is a gift shop for a gloomy souvenir at the conclusion. 6. Taunton River Trail By the time you read this, you may be able to stroll or cycle north along the picturesque Taunton River from Somerset to Taunton on a 22-mile rail path. At the time of publication, a two-mile segment of the intended route was taking shape nearby along the abandoned railroad right-of-way through Sweets Knoll State Park. Until recently, this 56-acre property near Dighton had gotten little attention, but it has a lot to offer. The Taunton River has been designated a National Wild and Scenic River, and it is New England’s only major coastal river that flows freely and without dams. You can trek down to the river and onto the wooded knoll that rises from the banks. As evidenced by the kiosk, this was an important pre-contact Native American site, and the remnants of old stone walls serve as a relic of a bygone maritime business. 7. Swansea Town Beach This public sandy beach in Swansea is less than ten minute drive from the south end of Somerset. Swansea Town Beach faces south and offers a panoramic view of Mount Hope Bay. As with Somerset’s beach, lifeguards are on duty from mid-June to Labor Day, and there is a parking fee ($5 for residents and $8 for non-residents at the time of writing). The beach is a joy, with a large sandy bay accompanied by a grassy picnic area, restrooms, and a playground. Because the beach has a shallow gradient, the water is warm in the summer, and you may walk out for over a mile at low tide. 8. Braga Bridge The I-195 bridge that spans the Taunton River between Somerset and Fall River opened in 1966 and has since become a landmark, towering over the world’s largest naval museum. The massive steel structure is a stunning landmark for those driving to Cape Cod, and
15 Best Things to Do in Westwood (MA)
Located on the western slopes of the Blue Hills, Westwood is a leafy suburb that split from neighboring Dedham in the late 1800s. A community of 16,000 people, Westwood covers a large area, with much land set aside for conservation. The large reserve is managed by the private organization Hale, is owned by a non-profit organization, and has its roots as a Boy Scout reserve in the early 20th century. Hale has extensive forest and pond areas for summer camps and programs, but is also open to the public and offers recreational opportunities. The affluent corners of the greater Boston area include the upscale shopping areas of Westwood and Dedham, as well as a number of old mansions and farms that have been turned into sanctuaries with elegant gardens, stable animals, and plenty of songbirds in summer. 1. Colburn School–High Street Historic District From 349 to 390 along High Street, you can learn about Westwood’s history. Most of the city’s public facilities are located on or near this street, as are about 40 historic homes. Most of these were built long before Westwood was incorporated as a town in 1897, but the 19th-century barns are a reminder of the country’s past. The notable building that gives this historic district its name is Colburn School (668 High St), built in 1874 in the Second Empire style. A little further north is the Classic Revival City Hall (580 High St), completed in 1910. This town hall was state of the art for its time with modern plumbing, steam heating, and electric lighting. 2. Legacy Place Located across Interstate 95 in Dedham, Legacy Place is an outdoor urban shopping and dining destination. Tailored to the area, the shops here are geared toward the top end of the market combined with many of the major malls. Overview: Tenants include Apple, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, and L.L. Bean, Gap, Sephora, Whole Foods, J.Crew, Loft, Francesca’s. Entertainment is provided by the premier Showcase Cinema Deluxe with 15 screens, lounge chairs, cinema dining, and Kings Dining & Entertainment, a combination bowling alley, bar, and restaurant. Legacy Place also has chains like Shake Shack, CAVA, Legal C Bar, and Yard House. 3. Lowell Woods North Westwood has a large city-owned nature reserve where you can hike nearly 300 acres of highland forest and wetlands along Purgatory Brook. Lowell Woods is made up of a patchwork of four nature reserves, each intersected by his three signposted trails (blue, red, and white). What’s interesting is that these trails are actually historic roads that were traversed many generations before automobile traffic. Perhaps the most beautiful scene is when the Blue Trail crosses Purgatory Brook over a beautiful footbridge. 4. Powisset Farm The farming history of Powisett Farm, adjacent to the Hale Reservation, dates back to the 17th century. Here, the Reservations Administration runs its CSA program, complete with educational kitchens, farm stands, and farm animals that kids will love. Away from the cultivated fields, trails meander through upland forests, cross streams, past spring-fed ponds, and through wetlands. As you walk, you might spot wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and bobolinks nesting in the grasslands. One of Powisett Farm’s programs is Summer His Camp, where children can experience the joys of country living, from caring for animals to tending crops to learning to prepare basic meals. 5. Rocky Woods Reservation The Reservation Management Board manages this 500-acre forest west of Westwood. Water is ubiquitous in the Rocky Woods, thanks in part to the reserve’s unique location in the Neponset and Charles River basins. Wetlands dot the landscape and are home to turtles, beavers, and bullfrogs. Five man-made ponds dot the grounds, the largest of which is Chickering Pond, which is surrounded by a 3/4-mile ring. The highest point in the Rocky Woods is the summit of Cedar Hill at the northeast end (435 feet), which offers sweeping views of the reserve to the southwest. 6. Firefighter’s Foam One of Westwood’s most unique annual traditions is held in July by the local fire department. ESPECIALLY FOR KIDS: Fireman’s Foam combines two water cannons and a ton of non-toxic dish soap to transform the Sheehan Elementary School grounds into a foamy wonderland. The bubbles reach several feet in height and children dive head-first into them. The first edition of Firefighter’s Foam took place in the 1980s and the event has become a staple of the summer. 7. Blue Hills Reservation Just east of Westwood rises the Blue Hills, which sits on a 7,000-acre reserve and is the tallest mountain in the Boston metropolitan area. This peak, Great Blue Hill (635 feet), is easily accessible from Westwood and offers views of the entire metropolitan area. In the 1880s, the mountain was chosen as the site of the Blue Hill Weather Station. Weather stations played an important role in early meteorological science and are still active as research sites and tourist attractions. Hike this series of 22 hills, visit the summer beaches of Hortons Pond, ski at the Blue Hills Ski Area, and learn about mountain ecology and history at the Blue Hills Trailside Museum’s kid-friendly terrain. 8. Adams Farm Less than five minutes from Westwood is 700 acres of public land in nearby Walpole. The largest single lot here is the town-owned Adams Farm, with 10 miles of trails through woods and fields, meeting old stone walls and benches and offering expansive views. In spring, birdsong fills the forests and rolling meadows with breeding species such as bobolinks, swallows, and eastern thrushes. Adams Farm is on the flight path of migrating monarch butterflies, and the purpose-built butterfly garden is magical from midsummer onwards. 9. Lambert’s Rainbow Market Founded nearly 70 years ago, Lambert’s is a local market chain with stores in Dorchester and Westwood’s Rainbow Square shopping centers. This has been his family business for three generations and what started as a fruit and vegetable market has grown into something bigger. New York-style deli, salad bar, delicious sub-menu, ready-to-eat meals
15 Best Things to Do in Easthampton (MA)
Nestled in the shadow of Mount Tom at 1,202 feet above sea level, Easthampton is a forward-thinking creative community surrounded by renowned university cities such as Northampton, Amherst, and Hadley. From the 19th century until just after World War II, East Hampton was the center of the textile industry, and the town has retained its distinctive cityscape of historic factory complexes. These massive brick buildings now house artist collectives, studios, restaurants, microbreweries, live music venues, indoor parks, and entertainment venues. The ponds that once powered these mills are now the backdrop to a charming city park with walking trails, boat rentals, and space for outdoor summer entertainment. 1. CitySpace (Old Town Hall) Easthampton’s old commercial center runs along several blocks of Main Street, from Northampton Street in the north to Center Street in the south. The borough has been the city’s civic and commercial center since it was incorporated in 1785, and the many buildings testify to Easthampton’s prosperity in the 19th century. The one-of-a-kind Old Town Hall was built in 1869 in theatrical Renaissance style with a 133-foot tall bell tower. Since 2006, the Landmark on the ground floor has been occupied by the non-profit City Spaces, which raises funds for the building’s restoration while also hosting his exciting live performances here at the Blue Room. 2. Nashawannuck Mills Historic District and Cottage Street Cultural District Overlooking the north shore of Nashawanak Pond is a vast complex of interconnected factory buildings built from the mid-1840s to the 1870s. These were manufactured for the Williston Elastic Suspender Company, later renamed the Nashawannuck Manufacturing Company. She made elastic fabrics for suspenders and webbing, and rubber parts for shoes. The stretch fabric business finally went out of business in 1970, but today the complex is home to a wide range of residents, from light industry to martial arts schools to artists’ cooperatives. Heading east brings you to the bustling Cottage Street Cultural District, a long line of independent restaurants, bars, stages, and shops, with Mount Tom on the eastern horizon. 3. Park Hill Orchard Just a few miles from central East Hampton, in the countryside, you’ll find an orchard that doubles as an outdoor art gallery. Park Hill Orchard grows about 100 varieties of fruit, including various types of blueberries, raspberries, plums, plums, blackberries, peaches, cherries, pears, and apples. There are about 48 kinds of apples alone, and you can enjoy apple picking from the end of summer. All of these produce and more are sold at rustic farm stands, which are open during Thanksgiving and are famous for their cider donuts and cider slush. In addition, Park Hill Orchard is an art destination that hosts juried installations every two years, in between annual invited exhibitions that typically feature two artists. The work can be admired along an 800-meter promenade that winds through orchards and orchards. 4. New City Brewery One of the tenants of this turn-of-the-century textile factory on Pleasant Street is New City Brewery, which has been brewing beer and lager since 2013. The brewery he moved to this atmospheric space in 2015 offers 12 beers. What you won’t find anywhere else in the flagship is a hard ginger beer in a pre-Prohibition style. It also tastes great as a mimosa with grapefruit juice or freshly squeezed orange juice. A variety of IPAs, lagers, and maltier also have New City Mules, which pair beautifully with Quiver Hibiscus Tea in a Hibiscus Mule. New City also has a kitchen stocked with extensive bar food, including vegetarian and vegan options. 5. Luthier’s Co-op & Backstage Bar This unique and highly respected local business calls itself “the world’s first full-service guitar bar.” By day, Luthier’s Co-op is a musical instrument store that specializes in stringed instruments, buying, selling, and repairing used and vintage guitars, basses, ukuleles, banjos, mandolins, and amplifiers. At night, the venue transforms into a lively entertainment venue, featuring open mics, spoken word, stand-up comedy, and multiple performances each night. The Backstage Bar serves signature cocktails, freshly ground and brewed coffee, and a variety of craft beers and ciders on tap. 6. Dinosaur Footprints Reservation This corner of Pioneer Valley holds a special place in paleontological history, as it is where the first scientifically described dinosaur footprints were discovered. During the early Jurassic period, about 200 million years ago, what is now the Connecticut River Valley was a subtropical area of lakes and wetlands. Here, two-legged dinosaurs up to 20 feet long left footprints preserved in mudflats that eventually turned into sandstone. Discovered in 1802, these castings were originally made by crows fleeing Noack’s Ark before the scientific community realized their significance in the second half of the century. Nearly 20 tracks left by small herbivores and large carnivores can be studied on eight acres owned by the Reservation Board in adjacent Holyoke. 7. Chicoine Family Farm In the idyllic west corner of East Hampton is the Sicoine family farm since 1933. William Chicoin began raising cattle in the 1970s on what used to be a dairy farm, long before terms like farm-to-table beef and grass-fed beef became fashionable. The herd of approximately 70 cows is exclusively grass-fed and never given steroids, growth hormones, or antibiotics, so the impact on quality is evident. The Chicoin Family Farm shop is open on Sundays and also sells organic chicken and pork raised on-site. 8. Prodigy Minigolf & Gameroom You might be surprised to find an indoor miniature golf course and game room for ages 13 and up on the ground floor of Eastworks Mill. The 18-hole course is video game-inspired and is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding. There are also about 60 different video game consoles from the 1970s to the 90’s, including some new ones. Add table games from billiards to air his hockey and his 200+ board games for a night of intense competition with friends. 9. Fort Hill Brewery Opened in 2014, this craft brewery was founded by alumni of
15 Best Things to Do in Northborough (MA)
First settled by Europeans in the 17th century, the city of Northborough in central Massachusetts is traversed by the former Boston Post Road (US Route 20), which forms its main street. There are some interesting signs along this historic thoroughfare. One refers to the site where a young woman, Mary Goodnow, was murdered by her Native Americans in 1707 during Queen Anne’s War. The headquarters of the Northborough Historical Society, his mid-19th century converted church, is home to an unusually opulent headquarters filled with artifacts highlighting over 350 years of local history. For decades, family farms throughout the city will entice you with homemade cakes and cider donuts, or invite you to pick some fruit. 1. Old Farm Trail Part of a great trail network through Northboro city lands is the Old Farm Trail on the border with Marlborough. The trail is named after Stirrup Brook Farm, an old dairy farm that was sold over 60 years ago. Where once pastures are now densely forested, the Old Farm Trail reveals the strange remnants of life in the past. These are historical vehicles that were abandoned in the fields of the time in his mid-twentieth century and slowly fell into disrepair. The most intact of these is his light blue 1953 Oldsmobile 88 sandwiched between two trees. The Old Farm Trail meanders along the Assabet River and Stirrup Brook, past several picnic spots, and joins the Bird Song Trail southeast near Main Street. 2. Sawyer’s Bowladrome Cozy local bowling alleys, like this one on Main Street, are a feature of many communities in this part of the state. Sawyers Bowldrome dates back to 1953 and was used for candlepin bowling, a regional variant of tenpin bowling that was popular in Worcester around 1880. For beginners in this style, there is a small ball that feels comfortable in the hand, but the pin is tall and narrow, making it much more difficult to knock down. With low ceilings and just six lanes, Sawyers Bowldrome is anything but a modern alley, and even more so for that matter. You have to use pencil and paper to score, but there are also automation features such as ball return and pin clear. 3. Assabet Park Close to public buildings such as City Hall and the Northboro Free Library, this public park has undergone some modernization in recent years. Asahbet Park, which reopens in the summer of 2022, features an all-new playground with ADA-compliant equipment on soft, safe, rubberized surfaces. Another great facility for young families on a hot day is the children’s pool with various atomizers, bubblers, and geysers in a large asphalted area. Parents can pack a picnic and beach chairs to enjoy a few hours of summer fun at an affordable price. 4. Mary Goodnow Grave Along Boston Post Road, find a powerful clue to Northborough’s violent past at the site of the 1707 murder of a person named Mary Goodno. This happened during Queen Anne’s War (1702-1717) when Native Americans allied with France raided the Marlborough area. As Mary was gathering herbs in the meadow, she saw a group of twenty or more warriors approaching. Her bravery reportedly allowed her to surrender to her attackers and allow her two children and a pregnant companion to reach safety in the garrison. The grounds feature her 1899 stone marker and are accessed from the Pheasant Hill parking lot via a trail through the woods. 5. Ski Ward Ski Area Since the late 1930s, generations of budding skiers have learned the basics on this small mountain in the Shrewsbury city limits. Ski wards with 100% snow cover have extended ski and snowboard seasons. There are 9 slopes of equal weight for beginners (3), intermediate (3), and advanced (3), all he is operated by 4 lifts. This is the ideal place for beginners and in winter he has 100 teachers for a wide range of individual and group tuition programs. A big draw for many families is his eight subway rides with two elevators to help keep lines to a minimum. The mountain remains a recreational spot for the rest of the year, thanks to a summer tubing park. 6. Northborough Crossing An outdoor mall located at the intersection of Route 9 and Route 20 in the southern part of the city. Northborough Crossing is a mix of large stores, small shopping centers, chain restaurants, and Wegmans branches. Retailers found here include Kohl’s, Old Navy, Ulta Beauty, Claire’s, The Paper Store and T.J. Maxx, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Michals, Homesense, and PetSmart. For food, there’s QDOBA and IHOP, and Burger King, Starbucks, and Anzio’s Brick Oven Pizza are nearby. 7. Juniper Hill Golf Course Less than a mile southeast of central Northboro is a 36-hole public golf course and a newly modernized clubhouse with barbecue facilities, a pro shop, and a golf instruction center. His first of two 18-hole courses in Juniper Hills is the Riverside Course, which dates back to 1931. The course has been improved over the years and is known for its idyllic scenery along the banks of the Assabet River. Opened in 1991, the Lakeside Course is the more difficult of the two courses. Blending in with the majestic New England landscape, this 18-hole is Carolina-style, with his par-3 8th and his 14th calling for bold tee shots from the water. 8. Ellsworth McAfee Park Widely acclaimed for its excellent maintenance, Northborough Community Park is located south of the city near the border with Westborough and has many active recreational facilities. In a nutshell, there’s a skate park, basketball court, pickleball court, multipurpose arena, and two playgrounds. A long exercise trail winds through the park and leads to a secluded pond at the northern end. There is also a large gazebo available for rent. On Thursday nights from late June through mid-August, Ellsworth McAfee Park will be the stage for Northboro’s annual Summer His concert series. 9. Boundless Adventures Zipline and Aerial Park A zipline and high-rope park
15 Best Things to Do in North Reading (MA)
Established as an independent town in the 1850s, North Reading has a history of European settlement dating back two centuries. The historic 200-year-old historic district meeting house is his third in this location and stands at the highest point in a majestic community of historic buildings. North Reading’s finest parks are also scenic on the shady banks of the tranquil Ipswich River. In the center, you can visit companies that have been in the industry for decades and there are many nearby attractions such as a mini golf course, an indoor playground for children under 10, and a go-kart track. 1. Reverend Daniel Putnam House The headquarters of the North Reading Society of Historical and Antiquities is located in this colonial mansion on the east side of Town Common for over 300 years. The house was built for the purpose of persuading the pastor to settle in the parish. The Reverend Daniel Putnam (1696-1759) ministered here from 1720 until his death, and under his contract, he owned 20 acres of land, two of which are his home to this day. was around Also on the grounds is the West Village Schoolhouse (1845), his one-room schoolhouse that was moved to this location in the 1980s. Reverend Daniel Putnam’s home can be visited during open houses and social events. 2. BFM Driving & Mini Golf If you want to hone your golf skills or are looking for a family-friendly activity, there is a combination driving range and miniature golf course at 327 Main Street in North West Reading. BFM’s 18-hole mini golf course is surrounded by rock gardens with animal models. The holes themselves are fun for kids, but the lack of crazy obstacles allows serious putters to show off their skills. The driving range now features 28 hitting stations, re-laid mats, pinnacle, and top-flight balls, multiple targets to choose from, and lighting for after-dark play. 3. The Big Dipper Ice Cream Stand After playing mini-golf at BFM, families can enjoy a cold treat at the ice cream stand next door. You can walk from the parking lot. There are some picnic tables out front. Big Dipper not only offers high-quality dairy ice cream but also caters to a variety of dietary needs and preferences with delicious vegan, fat-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free options. With about 40 varieties of hard ice cream, from toasted coconut to mint chocolate chips, as well as low-fat frozen yogurt, a variety of sherbets and sherbets, and soft cream, there’s sure to be something that piques your interest. You should find it. 4. Hornet’s Nest Sub Shop Just off Town Common is a sandwich shop with no shortcuts that have been around for over half a century. Hornet’s Nest Sub Shop opened in 1972 and quickly became famous for its cheesesteak sub shop. They continue to be the star of the menu and, like all steak subs sold in the store, are prepared using only the finest beef loin. Our steaks are hand-shavings daily and are never frozen or pre-sliced. The bread is also freshly baked and the turkey sub meat is oven roasted on site. Don’t forget to try the Italian-style thin-crust pizza made with homemade hand-kneaded dough. 5. Ryers Store At the southwest end of Town Green is a traditional country shop dating back to 1912. Lyr’s Store features a deli, hot bar, salad bar, freshly baked bread, hot and cold sandwiches, freshly brewed Pierce Brothers coffee, Richardson ice cream, a wide selection of beers and wines, gourmet specialties Goods and various sweets available. A unique strength here is Lyre’s own selection of house-made marinated meats, and a list of signature sandwiches includes premium Dietz & Watson cold cuts. Daily specials are posted on the store’s website and always offer a variety of fresh hot soups Monday through Friday. 6. Shriners Auditorium Opened in 1977, this spacious venue in the North Reading/Wilmington downtown area was built as a headquarters by Boston-based Aleppo Shriners and is still owned by the Doyukai. The Shriners Auditorium has approximately 40,000 feet of exhibition space within the arena and has hosted a variety of events over the past 45 years, from conventions, antique shows, banquets, and concerts to wrestling, mixed martial arts, and boxing. It’s been done. A milestone on the calendar is the annual Shriners Circus in April. Its history dates back to 1951 and he is known as an aviator, dancer, daredevil stuntman on a motorcycle, and the famous Aleppo clown. 7. Cowabunga’s Inflatable Playground For parents with children under the age of 10, there is an indoor inflatable park at the Atlantic Plaza Shopping Center in North Reading. Safer than a trampoline park, the Cowabunga Inflatable Playground is a small world of inflatable attractions where you can bounce, climb and slide for an exhilarating hour or two. There are open bouncing areas, huge slides, all kinds of inflatable obstacles, and huge climbing structures with foam ball blasters. Whether you want to rent out the entire area for a private celebration or use the public space for yourself, the playground is the centerpiece of your birthday party. 8. K1 Speed The Boston branch of this national chain of indoor kart tracks is just minutes from Wilmington. K1 Speed opened here in 2015 with two challenging tracks and a fleet of powerful electric karts. Unlike petrol-powered carts with lawnmower engines, these eco-friendly machines have zero rpm maximum torque and can rocket out of corners. The easiest way to stay on track is with an arrival and drive package. After each race, you will receive a results sheet detailing the times for that session and the previous week or month for the riders. Perfect for corporate events and group celebrations, K1 Speed has a café serving snacks and drinks, and an arcade with billiards and air hockey tables. 9. Reading Town Forest The southwest corner of the city borders an attractive 290-acre protected area on the Ipswich River. The Readingtown Forest was founded in the
15 Best Things to Do in South Hadley (MA)
Located on the east bank of the Connecticut River, South Hadley is best known for being home to the historic Mount Holyoke College. Founded in 1837, this prestigious women’s liberal arts college has perhaps the finest campus in New England. Magnificent brick architecture, fall foliage, mosaic gardens, and sights like the exceptional Mount Holyoke College Museum of Art and the Skinner Museum, a fascinating curiosity cabinet housed in an ancient church, are worth enjoying. To the north of South Hadley is the Trapprock Ridge of the Holyoke Mountains. Two state parks are easily accessible for hiking and bluff views. 1. Lady Bea Boat Rides From Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day, travel along the mighty Connecticut River aboard this cruise ship docked at Brunel’s Marina in South Hadley. This is a family business and Lady Bea is named after her early 20th century matriarch. In season, cruises depart at 1:00, 4:00, and 6:00 pm Thursday through Sunday, with additional departures at 7:00 pm on sunny days in midsummer. Listen to a fun and engaging narration full of historical tidbits as you travel upstream to Northampton and back, enjoying spectacular scenery along the way. Lady Bea is also available for private charters, parties, and corporate outings and has a fully stocked bar serving drinks and snacks. 2. McCray’s Farm For nearly half a century, this local dairy has welcomed the public to a variety of activities and events. In the fall, the best part is taking a hay wagon ride to the pumpkin fields and star gazing after dark. Since its inception in 1991, this haunted hay wagon with a haunted park has been one of the most popular Halloween attractions in western Massachusetts every weekend in October. McCray’s Farm also has a mini golf course, a children’s playground, and a petting zoo where you can feed sheep, cows, ducks, and goats. As for the food, there are plenty of ice cream flavors and sandwiches ranging from burgers to melts to wraps to hot dogs. 3. Skinner Museum Silk magnate Joseph Allen Skinner (1862-1946) was a principal patron of Mount Holyoke College and bequeathed a very diverse collection after his death. The work is kept at Mount He’s Holyoke University Museum of Art, displayed as a cabinet of traditional curiosities in the memorable setting of the old First Congregational Church (1846) in Prescott, Massachusetts. Every square inch of available space is filled with Native American artifacts, marine-related items, rare books and documents, minerals and fossils, 19th-century memorabilia, fine glassware, pottery, historic lighting, and marine ethnography. It is filled with items such as 4. Tower Theaters A two-screen movie theater, open since 1989, is housed in a pretty gabled building on the Village Commons. Tower Theaters is a boutique hotel, but the auditorium has ample space and large, comfortable seating. Being a small business, service is a big improvement over corporate complexes, with lots of nice touches like freshly baked popcorn and refills on most drinks. You can usually see Hollywood premieres, indie movies, and sometimes cult and classic movies here. 5. Odyssey Bookshop A must-stop at the Village Commons is the independent bookstore, which opened in 1963. The Odyssey Bookshop is the exclusive retailer of Mount Holyoke University textbooks, but there’s also a top-notch children’s section on the ground floor that’s a must-see for parents. If you live in South Hadley, you can take advantage of the Booklover program for frequent shopping and discounts. One of the notable things about this store is that it has a very busy calendar of events. Several authors appear each week in book readings, question-and-answer sessions, and book signings. 6. Mount Holyoke Range State Park If Skinner State Park whets your appetite for cinematic scenery and unique rock formations, explore the eastern half of the range at Mt Holyoke Range State Park. There are more than 3,700 acres of wilderness here, followed by the Metacomet Monadnock Trail, which stretches along the ridge for miles. If you’re hiking east to the highest point in the range, Mount Norwotuck (1,106 feet), the Notch Visitor Center is a great place to pit and get your bearings. Away from the ledges, the park offers miles of hiking trails through forests and wetlands, and some of the best mountain biking in the area along the Serpentine and roller-coaster trails. 7. Ledges Golf Club Located near the eastern bank of the Connecticut River, this 18-hole public course is set in beautiful and varied scenery. Some are open-and-link style holes that incorporate natural wetlands, while others pass through undulating mature forests. The course has a number of elevated tees and greens offering great views of the surrounding hills. He can choose from 4 sets of tees to suit his skill level. Aside from the woods, the main obstacle is his 78 bunkers, which are known to be tough on even the most experienced players. Amenities include a driving range, a short game area, an accessible clubhouse, a golf shop, and a sunset grill to relax after a round. 8. ValleyBike Share Over the past decade, the City of South Hadley has put a lot of effort into improving its infrastructure to make it safer for motorcycle travelers. The city is already characterized by relatively low car traffic. You may have noticed that US 116 and US 202 have designated minor curb bike lanes along Morgan Street and Lyman Street. With this in mind, South Hadley is Pioneer Valley’s first bike-sharing program, with police stations and stations in town. Pay per ride or become a member and enjoy unlimited 45-minute rides daily, monthly, or yearly. 9. Buttery Brook Park South Hadley’s largest public park is located south of the city, about three miles from downtown. Situated along the creek of the same name that meanders through the park’s vast open fields, the property was chartered by the city in the late 1950s and used by the fire department until the 1990s. A great summer attraction for
15 Best Things to Do in Concord (MA)
Revolutionary and literary histories collide in this fascinating city. On April 19, 1775, the first British army was killed at the hands of American colonial militiamen, firing “a gunshot heard all over the world.” The famous transcendentalist who coined the term, Ralph Wald He Emerson (1803-1882), spent most of his adult life in Concord and wrote about some of the greatest writers and thinkers in American history. was an instructor. From the mid-19th century, Concord became a hotbed of ideas and creativity for Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888), Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862), and Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864). In Concord, spend a few days exploring its many monuments of overwhelming importance, artifact-filled museums, and lovingly preserved historic homes. All these can captivate and impress anyone today. 1. North Bridge Visitor Center The National Historical Park’s North Bridge Visitor Center occupies a mansion built by the descendants of Major John Buttrick, the officer who first ordered the militia to open fire on British forces. For background information, watch his eight-minute film detailing the events leading up to the battle with its grave consequences. An interesting exhibit is his “Hancock”, one of his four brass cannons smuggled out of Boston. The recovery of this cannon was one of the main reasons for General Gage’s dispatch of British regulars to Concord on 19 April 1775. The manor house is a short walk from the bridge but is very scenic and has a magnificent formal garden open to the public. 2. The Old Manse Along the Concord River overlooking the Northbridge is a Georgian house built in 1770 with a fascinating history, even by Concord standards. The Old Parsonage is managed by the Reservation Board of Trustees and was built for Ralph Wald his Emerson grandfather. I lived here in my 20’s and 30’s. During this time he wrote the first draft of Nature (1836) and proposed marriage to Lydian Jackson. Nathaniel Hawthorne then stayed here for several fruitful years as newlyweds in the 1840s with his wife Sophia Peabody, writing some twenty sketches and short stories during their stay. Shortly before their arrival, Henry David Thoreau planted a vegetable garden for the couple on the property as a wedding gift. The structure of the house has remained largely unchanged for over 250 years, and each room is filled with mementos of America’s most revered figures. Particularly moving is the little poem the Hawthorne family carved into their windows for each other some 180 years ago. 3. Walden Pond State Reservation For two years beginning in 1845, Henry David Thoreau lived in a one-room cottage on the north bank of the pond. This stay later formed the basis of his famous book Walden. Or “Life in the Forest” (1854), which recalls a simple life in a natural environment. Many believe that these ideas laid the foundation for the conservation movement of the second half of this century. Feel connected to nature at this 335-acre state park centered around Kesseloch Pond, formed by retreating glaciers about 10,000 years ago. A granite stake marks the original location of Thoreau’s hut. Visit the visitor center to see replicas, exhibits, and shops of the Solow Society. The pond is a popular spot for swimming and boating in the summer and is surrounded by walking trails and picnic areas near the shore. 4. Ralph Waldo Emerson House The roots of Concord’s decades-long activity as a literary center can be traced to Ralph Waldo Emerson’s return to the city with his wife Lydian in 1835, shortly after their marriage. Emerson will live in this house at 28 Cambridge Turnpike for the rest of his life, almost fifty years. During this time he completed the final draft of his seminal essay Nature in his 1836 and Independence in 1841. Emerson’s speeches and writings drew other writers and thinkers to Concord, many of whom visited his home. And the barn on the property not only housed livestock, but was also used at one point as a classroom for Emerson’s children, Lizzie and Abbie Alcott, Lizzie and Barry Goodwin, and Caroline Pratt. The house is open until the end of October and is on display in its early 1870s restoration. 5. The Wayside This house is believed to be over 300 years old. Early in the revolution, the house was occupied by Samuel Whitney, his 1775 Massachusetts congressman and pattern master of the Minutemen of Concord. The Wayside, adjacent to Orchard House, is best known for its rich literary establishments and requires a guided tour. Louisa Her Mae Her Alcott lived here with her family from her early teens until she was 20 years old. Renowned author Nigel Hawthorne then moved in, making it the only home he owned. Between trips to Europe, he lived here from 1852 to his death in 1864, and shortly thereafter (from 1879 to 1881) the poet and novelist George Parsons Lathrop. continued. For the next 40 years, Wayside was the home of successful children’s author Harriet Lothrop (pseudonym Margaret Sidney), who lived here with her publisher husband, Daniel Lothrop. 6. Verrill Farm This sustainably managed farm in Concord has been owned by the same family since 1918 and the land has been cultivated for over three centuries. Thanks to methods such as tillage, crop rotation, and the use of organic matter as fertilizer, Beryl Farm’s soil is more fertile than ever before. From June, you can buy PYO strawberries, hand-cut sunflowers, and PYO sweet corn, and there are many pumpkin fields. This time of year hosts numerous events, including Family Farm Day in September and his annual Thanksgiving in October, with live music, hay wagon rides, farm animals, and games. The field-front farmer’s market and greenhouse are open 24/7 and sell fresh, homemade produce, delis, fresh pastries, cakes, flowers, and plants. 7. Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge The original of the two units on this 12-mile wetlands reserve is in Concord. These are two ponds along the Concord River that drain in the summer
15 Best Things to Do in Leicester (MA)
West of Worcester, Leicester is a city at the northern tip of the Blackstone Valley with an impressive industrial history. Since the early days of the American Industrial Revolution, Leicester has been a center of card manufacturing. A card was a tool used to loosen cotton fibers before spinning them into yarn. By the early 19th century, Lester was responsible for one-third of all hand and mechanical charts made in North America. Today, Leicester is a rural suburb of Worcester, home to several family farms and an elegant old center, part of Becker University. In the disc golf community, Leicester is known for its two great 18-hole courses located on the same road along Maple Street. 1. Hot Dog Annie’s At the time of this writing, this hot dog stand at 244 Paxton Street was 70 years old. The hallmark of a good fast-food restaurant is the simplicity of its menu. Hot Dog Annie’s does just that. Your choices are simply hot dogs, burgers, old-fashioned cream sodas and root beer, and chocolate milk. You must order the BBQ sauce made from our secret recipe for your dog. At the end of the parking lot is a cozy outdoor dining area with picnic tables, flowers in planters, and ample shade. Come on Wednesday and get 4 hot dogs at a special price. 2. Disc Golf Leicester has two acclaimed disc golf courses along Marshall Street. Maple Hill (132 Marshall St) is open year-round, except when it’s snowing. This is a technical championship course designed over a variety of habitats including open fields, forests, and ponds. This truck dates back to his 2002 and features 4 sets of baskets. Nearby is the Pyramid (103 Marshall St), with 18 holes mostly in the woods, although the fairways are relatively open. Founded in 1988 with his two sets of baskets, Pyramid is known for its excellent store, also known as the Marshall Street Disc Golf Pro Shop. 3. Cooper’s Hilltop Farm Dating back to 1918, this fourth-generation dairy farm is located in the lush hillsides of Leicester’s Rochdale area. Cooper’s Hilltop Farm spent his early decades in wholesale and supply, and he finally opened his shop to the public in the 1950s. The facility is housed in a play-roofed barn built in the 1930s as a facility to pasteurize the farm’s milk. Milk is still a staple here, pasteurized and homogenized right behind the shop. Whole milk, low-fat milk, and skim milk are available, as well as flavored milk, light cream, and heavy cream. The farm also sells homemade bread, eggs, and pasture-raised meats like beef, pork, and chicken, as well as a range of locally made artisanal products, from pastries to gourmet cheeses. 4. Leicester Country Club Known as one of the best public courses in the Worcester area, Leicester Country Club has made many improvements in recent years, including better drainage to ensure better playing conditions. The challenges on this track are quite varied and require you to use every club in your bag. A notable hole is his 8th, a short dogleg right par 4 with flow and a difficult uphill approach on his shot. The distinctive par 3 17th slopes uphill along a narrow tree-lined fairway to a bunker-guarded green. After the game, head to Grill 19 to recharge and enjoy sandwiches, wraps, burgers, salads, and shareable entrees like chicken wings and chicken fillets. 5. Sargent Pond Just east of Leicester Country Club is a beautiful pond, which can be reached from the city center downhill. A feature of Sargent Pond is that the coastline is largely undeveloped. The southern shore is lined with lakeside homes, while the northern half is all pristine forest. He has two places where he can row a boat on the pond. The north end of Lake Avenue and behind Castle Cantina on Main Street. Nearby on the south bank is Lawson Broom Cemetery, the final resting place of Colonel William Henshaw (1735-1820). At a meeting of the Safety Committee in 1774, he called for “human companions ready to act at any moment”, hence the term “Minutemen”. 6. Leicester Harvest Fair This heartwarming annual event is traditionally held on Town Common on the third Saturday in September. Held in early fall, the Leicester Harvest Fair is a free event with live music, family games, district walking tours, and a wide range of exhibitors and protesters. There are stalls for everything from baked goods to textiles, eggs, craft beer, photography, flower arrangements, and home-grown vegetables. In previous editions, the Swan Tavern hosted an open house with an art exhibition inside. 7. Burncoat Pond Wildlife Sanctuary On the Spencer city boundary lies Burncote Pond, once Leicester’s city beach. The western part of the lake is now part of the Audubon Society of Massachusetts protected area. The site is about 250 acres, but it’s part of a group of reserves, so you can spend a few hours exploring the countryside or continuing the Midstate Trail through Spencer. Around Bangkot Pond, enter pine and oak forests, cross rivers, and walk along wild marsh edges. In late spring, the laurel trees are in full bloom, creating beautiful scenery. Another great view of the pond is from Richards Overlook, a huge boulder on the Flat Rock Trail. 8. Tatnuck Driving Range Nearby these disc golf courses on Marshall Street are golf attractions with numerous practice facilities. The focal point is a driving range of over 250 yards with a mix of grass and man-made hitting stations and sand traps surrounding the greens. There is also a short range with flags 30-60 yards away, perfect for approach play practice. Designed to test your putting skills on holes up to 50 feet long, the 18-hole miniature golf course is perfect for the whole family. Finally, there’s an ice cream stand that serves over 30 flavors of Gifford’s ice cream and giant Kaiem hot dogs. 9. Cotyledon Farm A mosaic of forests, meadows, marshes, pastures, and farmlands,
15 Best Things to Do in Holbrook (MA)
A charming South Shore town, Holbrook is home to many family-owned businesses and offers easy access to nature near protected areas and state parks. Much of the trade takes place along East-West Union Street, including restaurants that have been feeding locals for generations and a small but charming farmer’s market in the summer. Although these areas were first settled by Europeans in the early 18th century, Holbrook is a relatively young town by South Shore standards. Formerly part of Braintree, it was incorporated in 1872 and named for its late patron Elisha N. Holbrook. 1872) funded the City Hall and Library. 1. Festival of Lights A holiday staple in Holbrook since the 1970s, the Festival of Lights is a non-religious event held in the town’s historic center on the first Saturday in December. With the stunning City Hall and beautiful light show as the backdrop, the Holbrook Fire Department will host a program of performances and Santa’s arrival by local school choirs. Visitors can enjoy refreshments and children can visit Santa at the Winthrop Congregational Church next door. 2. Cranberry Pond Conservation Land From Holbrook Town Forest, follow the trail north to this secluded nature reserve in Braintree across the border. Here, Cranberry Pond is located in a depression surrounded by a surprisingly rocky slope. If coming from the south, the green marked trail eventually merges with the blue trail that winds around a hilltop pond. This is a gentle hike with some difficult sections that traverse steep rock ledges and enjoy impressive views, especially in winter when the hardwood forest is bare. The Red Trail is also accessible from the south via the Holbrook Town Forest and winds along the steep eastern edge of the property. You also have the option to loop back along the orange, yellow, or white trails. 3. Weymouth Great Pond Along Holbrook’s eastern border is a large forested pond, drained by the Mill River, which eventually empties into the Weymouth Back River. Weymouth Pond is a drinking water source, so recreational activities are restricted and dogs are not allowed. On the southeast coast, Negas Park and Richard E. Gifford Playground are connected by a mile-long trail that winds through hardwood forest and offers beautiful views of the undeveloped West Coast. There are some impressive granite blocks on the route, as well as sections of boardwalks over streams and wet ground, and a few small side roads if you want to take a detour. 4. High Voltage Paintball The Paintball Center occupies over 50 acres along a power line corridor east of Holbrook. High Voltage Paintball has a variety of terrains that allow for different tactics, from frenzied action on speedball fields to dense areas on woodball fields. Among the game options you can defend or attack bunkers, defend hills, and plant bombs before the enemy can react. The museum is also open on weekends, and visitors are free to visit. However, we recommend booking sessions with as many people as possible. 5. Stanney’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shoppe This classic American restaurant at 300 Union Street has been around for over 60 years. Stany’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop is a no-frills store with simple décor, serving hearty omelets, pancakes, waffles, French his toast, breakfast sandwiches, and a variety of egg combos. Lunch includes hearty sandwiches, burgers, salads, and plates of clam strips, rotisserie chicken, and steak chips. For dessert, Stannis is still known for sundaes, with a dozen choices ranging from hot fudge to banana his splits. 6. Fuller Craft Museum In Holbrook, you’re just minutes away from New England’s premier museum of contemporary arts and crafts. The Fuller Craft Museum is beautifully located on part of a series of ponds that were converted into a park in the 1920s. Exhibitions here showcase all aspects of contemporary craft, from ceramics to furniture, jewellery, woodwork, textiles, glass and more, by artists representing a range of disciplines. The grounds are home to stunning sculptures and an excellent gift shop with local and ethical goods. 7. Ames Nowell State Park Central Holbrook is just a few miles from 700 acres of wilderness on the banks of the stunning Cleveland Ponds. With more than 10 miles of forests, wetlands and waterfront trails, Ames Nowell State Park is a destination for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and picnicking. Non-motorized boats and fishing are permitted on the pond, which was requisitioned in the 1920s as part of a private project to create a bird sanctuary. The park has always featured the remains of 17th and his 18th century quarries, historic wagon bridges, giant boulders carved out of ice and old stone walls on farmland once reclaimed from the forest. There is something interesting. 8. Lake Holbrook Perhaps the most beautiful spot in the whole city is the shores of this 31-acre lake. Holbrook Lake on the North Shore Road is set in a small but beautifully landscaped park. This is the perfect spot for a picnic on a sunny day, with homes partially covered by hardwood trees offering beautiful views over the water. With some benches and picnic tables outside and others in small groves, the park also serves as a dock for motorboats. Lake Holbrook is rich in largemouth bass, as well as yellow, bluegill and gray bass. However, it is recommended not to eat the fish caught here. 9. Holbrook Town Forest Holbrook is blessed with extensive woodlands and was established in the 1950s as an urban forest on a clearing. One of the property’s many features is the varied views as you hike sheer granite cliffs and descend into pristine forested wetlands. Steep climbs and rocky terrain make singletrack challenging for mountain bikers. If you want to spend a little more time in nature, you can cross Braintree’s Cranberry Pond on the north side. Stone walls remind us of long-forgotten farms, and forests are dotted with springs that provide important amphibian habitat. 10. Holbrook Square Historic District At the intersection
15 Best Things to Do in Norwell (MA)
The south coast of this prosperous city is bordered by the North River, which flows along its southeastern border. Considered one of the most beautiful rivers in the region, it is recognized as a National Natural Landmark and Massachusetts Scenic River. In the 18th century, the banks of the River Norwell were a colonial center of shipbuilding, but today little is known. There are now many secluded nature reserves and reserves along the river. One of them, Norris Reserve, is accessed from the charming Old Town of Norwell, first created nearly 400 years ago. 1. Hornstra Farms A staple of the area for generations, Hornstra Farms was founded in 1912 by a Dutch couple who came to America. The first dairy was established in Hingham in 1915, but in 2009 all operations were moved to Norwell, taking over the defunct Rolling Farm. The Farm Store and seasonal Ice Cream Dairy Bar opened in 2014 and offers fresh dairy products such as milk, flavored milk, homemade butter, cream, eggnog, tempting baked goods, and locally grown farm treats. We sell in abundance. From cold cuts to cheese specialties. The best time to visit is from April to October. At this time of year, you can have 1-3 scoops of rich ice cream made on a nostalgic farm. 2. Jacobs Pond Conservation Area This ecologically diverse nature reserve lies on the north and east banks of a man-made pond built in 1730. Jacob’s Pond was formed when the Third Herring River was dammed to run the mills and lumber mills. From 1680 he had a brick factory here for 150 years. The ponds are surrounded by a diverse range of habitats including swamp cedar, laurel forest, beech, hemlock, pine, maple, and oak upland forests. Here you can hike marked trails, bird watching, paddling ponds, and fish for largemouth, chain picker, and yellow bass. Near the south side of the site is Jacob’s His Farmhouse (1726), maintained by the Norwell Historical Society, which hosts events such as the popular Strawberry Festival in June. 3. Stetson Meadows The North River meanders through this secluded 400-acre reserve that was purchased over 50 years ago by the City of Norwell to prevent development. The site’s colonial history dates back to a land grant awarded to a man named Robert Stetson in 1634. In the 18th century, it became a center of shipbuilding, with more than 1,000 ships sailing from its shores, including the Columbia Lediviva, America’s first circumnavigation (1790) ship. rice field. None of this history can be seen in today’s forests and swamps. Take a walk along the riverside trail or through the white pine and oak forests of the Twin Pines Trail. 4. James Library & Center for the Arts James for short, the cultural center includes galleries, performance spaces, and a library located just outside the leafy village of Nowell Centre. The James is an elegant Victorian building built in 1874 and has served as a meeting place for various organizations ever since. For visitors to the city, the center is a place where they can enjoy various regional arts. New exhibitions are held every few months, including juried art exhibitions. The Concert Hall is equipped with a Steinway B piano and offers a lively concert program featuring small classical ensembles. 5. South Shore Natural Science Center East of Jacob’s Pond, the YMCA owns 30 acres of meadows and woodlands that provide an educational experience for all ages. The center has an ecozone museum with interactive exhibits and a wide variety of native wildlife. There’s also a gift shop, greenhouse, amphitheater, and outdoor picnic areas, as well as his six color-coded nature trails. One is the Discovery Trail for kids, with exercise and play stations such as balance beams, boardwalks, xylophones, and pull-up bars. The location of the center also allows access to over 200 hectares of nature reserves. 6. North River Wildlife Sanctuary Just upstream from Norwell is land owned by Mass Audubon of Marshfield. The land was donated to the Society in 1977 by him and consists of approximately 500 acres of meadows, salt marshes, oak-pine forests, and red maple swamps. The North River Wildlife Refuge has 3 miles of hiking trails, including 800 meters of public hiking trails. The river loop is delightful in valley meadows lined with ancient stone walls and well-maintained boardwalks leading to the riverbanks. The Woodland Loop is the longest trail through oak and pine forests, and the reserve’s indoor Discovery Room lets you see wildlife in these habitats up close. 7. Great River Race Another great way to experience the beauty of the North River in summer is to attend this event organized by the North and South River Basin Association. The Great River Race starts at Bridge Street Canoe Launch in Norwell and runs 12.5 miles upstream to Indian Head Road in Hanover. Races are usually held on Sunday mornings in late July and are open to all types of non-motorized watercraft, including paddleboards. Now in its 40th year, the event is open not only to strong competitors but also to those who simply want to relax, with prizes for the best-decorated boats and boaters. increase. 8. Norwell Summer Festival Each Saturday in June, Norwell Town Center hosts a twice-yearly open-air festival for all ages and tastes. The Norwell Summer Festival attracts nearly 10,000 visitors each year with a wide range of vendors, excellent local cuisine, and live entertainment on three different stages. Shopping is at the heart of the festival experience, bringing together a variety of handpicked artisans from around the region. So is the food: lobster rolls, tacos, Italian subs, pizza, waffles, cannoli. 9. Strawberry Fair Restaurant A local favorite for nearly 50 years, Strawberry Fair Restaurant is synonymous with wholesome breakfast/brunch fare in a casual setting. In that sense, the building is a cozy farmhouse with a more substantial interior. The business has recently changed hands, but the new owners have made little change to their
15 Best Things to Do in Groton (MA)
With a population of just over 11,300, the town is located in the Merrimack Valley on the banks of the Nashua River and is a hotspot for summer activities like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Groton was first settled by Europeans in 1655, not long after a man named John Tinker established a trading post along the Nashua River to trade with the Nashaway Indians. The town has a fairly old center with 18th-century residential and public buildings, as well as the residence of prominent politician George Bootwell (1818-1905), a member of the local historical society since the 1930s. I have. Groton is also known for his two famous preparatory schools, the Groton School, founded in 1884, and the Lawrence Academy of Groton, which dates back to 1792. 1. Autumn Hills Orchard Perched on the site of three hilly drumlins, the Groton Orchard offers views of vast ridges of mountains such as Wachusett to the west and Monadnock to the north. Autumn Hills Orchard has a busy schedule with raspberry and blueberry picking beginning in July. Peaches, nectarines, pears, and grapes are available here during the season. The main crop here is apples, with over 30 varieties. Harvest begins in August and continues until October. If you visit here in the fall, you’ll be amazed by the foliage that can be seen for miles from the ridge. 2. Bancroft’s Castle At the top of Gibbet Hill are the haunted ruins of the house built by politician William Bancroft (1855-1922) as a gift to his wife, Mary. With its field stone exterior and imposing tower, the building was designed to look like a fairytale castle and was intended to be part of a larger home until William ran out of funds. The building was later used as a sanatorium and later as a lodge for his club Groton Hunt, but it burned down during the 1932 Independence Day fireworks display, leaving only the outer walls. Today, Bancroft Castle adds an air of mystery and drama to the majestic panorama from the top of Gibbetts Hill. 3. Nashua River Rail Trail This 20.5-mile multi-use trail continues through Groton on a route from Iyer in the south to Nashua, New Hampshire, in the north. Groton is an important stop on the trail for hikers and cyclists stopping for snacks and drinks as it passes close to Main Street and the Groton Center. Not far south, this trail runs along the east side of the Groton School grounds, where you can stop and enjoy the beautiful views across the pond. The Nashua River Rail Trail runs along the abandoned trackbed of the Hollis Branch of the Boston and Main Road. This route was established by him in 1848, but long before that, the route was in the footsteps of the Nashaway Indians. 4. J. Harry Rich State Forest North of Groton, the J. Harry Rich State Forest protects about 500 acres of forest along the winding Nashua River. One way to get there is via the Nashua River Rail Trail which runs along the east side of the property. From here, you can access hiking trails that follow the meandering river currents, along the banks and through wetlands in the woods. Many waterfowl can be seen along the river in summer, and the terrain is mostly flat, making it ideal for traveling with children. 5. Groton Farmers’ Market For a farmer’s market, it doesn’t get much better than this quaint old farm with an 1840 barn. The Groton Farmers Market is held at Williams Barn on Friday mornings from July through October, with an additional Thanksgiving Market in November. This is an opportunity to support numerous small businesses in Groton and neighboring communities. Think of seasonal produce, honey, eggs, jams, sauces, syrups, meal sets, baked goods, and even handmade beauty products, candles, pottery, and jewelry. For the little ones, the market often hosts petting zoos and weekly live music. 6. Rocky Hill Wildlife Sanctuary This 441-acre property in southeastern Groton is under the control of the Audubon Society of Massachusetts and is located in a federally designated Critical Environmental Risk Area. The Rocky Hill Wildlife Refuge is set in a landscape of high granite outcrops and rocky hewn landscapes surrounded by extensive forests. One of the reserve’s ecological importance is due to the spring-fed pools that fill with life in the spring. One of his highlights while exploring the trail is a rocky outcrop with unobstructed views of beaver ponds and treetop heron nests. 7. Luina Greine Farm Ruina Grain Farm, located in the rolling countryside near the Groton Center, specializes in alpaca wool. On weekends in the fall, the farm is open to the public for free tours. For adults and children alike, the best part is the chance to spend time with the farm’s cute animals, including friendly alpacas, goats, sheep, ponies, and donkeys. The farm shop, located in a beautiful hut, is still open today and sells scarves, socks, hats, coats, and stuffed animals made from alpaca fiber. 8. Groton Country Club Despite its name, the city’s facilities are open to the public wherever you live. The heart of Groton Country Club is a 9-hole golf course with a linked layout and a variety of tees for players of all skill levels. A challenging par 35 with beautiful views from the tee if played from the tip. The complex also includes Groton’s public outdoor pool, bordered by swimming and exercise lanes and a shallow area for young children to splash. Groton Publick House also has tennis and pickleball courts, and a cozy bar and restaurant. 9. Kalliroscope Gallery Groton is the home of Paul Matisse (born 1933), the grandson of Henri Matisse and a respected artist in his own right, known for his kinetic and interactive installations. In 1982 he purchased Old His Baptist Church in Groton as a residence with a studio and gallery within the sanctuary. Much of Matisse’s work is acoustically focused, and
15 Best Things to Do in Brewster (MA)
This historic coastal town on the bay side of Cape Cod was a favorite residence of sea captains in the early 19th century but has since become a summer hotspot for the wealthy. The water on the bay side is warmer than on the sea side and the waves are much calmer. If you’re looking for a family beach vacation, Brewster might just be the place for you. Add to this the majesty of the Brewster Flats, said to be the largest tidal flat in the United States, and the scenery is breathtaking. The apartments are also educational for the kids as they can walk up to 2 miles at low tide to explore tide pools teeming with crabs, oysters, mussels, scallops, and other marine life. 1. Cape Rep Theatre This artist-led theater company in Brewster is based on seven scenic acres in Nickerson State Park. The Cape Prep Theater is his atmospheric 125-seat indoor facility that dates back to his 1959 construction for summer camps. In summer there is also a beautiful outdoor theater that seats up to 200 spectators and is the only theater of its kind on the cape. Peak season runs from May through December and is packed with great productions, from classic Broadway musicals to new shows from up-and-coming creative talent. During the summer months, there are shows for children during the day and shows for adults after dark. 2. JT’s Seafood Restaurant Cape Cod has long been known for its clam shacks. The Clam Shack is a no-frills storefront that serves New England’s favorite seafood and other delicious comfort food. A classic example is the JT Seafood Restaurant on Old Kings Highway in Brewster. Menu highlights include hot and cold lobster rolls, clam chowder, clam strips, fish and chips, and lobster bisque. If you can’t decide, you can also opt for the Fisherman’s Platter, which contains a little bit of almost anything. JT’s is also one of the few local spots that have 20 flavors of great ice cream, as well as froyo, soft serve, and sorbet. 3. Crosby Mansion On the road to Crosby Landing stands the magnificent mansion built in 1888 for entrepreneur Albert Crosby (1823-1906). After moving to Chicago, he made a fortune manufacturing distilled alcohol, which was in high demand during the Civil War. His gorgeous 35-room home in Brewster is inspired by Chicago’s Gold Coast luxury mansion. Albert and his wife Matilda named it “Tawasenta” after a poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. “Song of Hiawatha”. The construction was so extensive that the site was sometimes connected to the Old Colony Railroad during construction. Details include a 60-foot-tall observation tower, rich hand-carved mahogany furniture, a two-story billiards room, a grand drawing room, and his two-story building that showcases works by artists such as Childe Hassam and El Creco. Art included his gallery. The Crosby Mansion still retains its former opulence and is open for tours on Sundays in July and August. 4. Harbor Lights Mini Golf If you’re traveling with kids and want an alternative experience to Brewster’s history and culture, there’s a classic seaside miniature golf course just off the Old Kings Highway. Harbor Lights Mini Golf might be mistaken for a garden attraction, with winding paths and lush grass, shrubs, flowers, and water. Small boulders are scattered throughout the route, and the main features are caves and ledges with waterfalls. Skill is more important than luck on this 18-rolling hole. For a special treat, the course also offers Gifford ice cream, as well as floats, sundaes, and shakes. 5. Brewster General Store The Brewster General Store has been a part of local life for over 150 years and is a popular hideaway. A little bit of everything is sold here, and the front is lined with cheerful benches, serving as a casual common area. Also worth noting is the building, first used as a church in 1852 and converted in 1866 with the introduction of the Cape Heiden Cod Central Railway. Long windows on the sides of the building remind us of the building’s former function. Horatio, Alger, and Helen Keller, among others, were known to frequent the store, and part of its fame is due to several generations of holidaymakers visiting it. Merchandise includes penny candies, greeting cards, local jams, toys, puzzles, board games, linens, household items, beach items, books, and more. People stop by early in the morning for freshly brewed coffee and pastries. Another summer must-see is the Brewster’s Scoop Ice Cream Stand in the parking lot. 6. Crosby Landing Beach All of Brewster’s public beaches are worth a visit, but Crosby Landing Beach is famous for its size and plenty of parking in the back dune parking lot. At high tide, you can lounge on the sand and swim in the gentle waves. If you’ve never been there, you might not be prepared for the amazing views at low tide. When the tide goes out, all you can see is a sandy beach with tide pools. The view is even more dramatic on a partly cloudy day or at dusk when the sun shines down on the pool and is probably one of the most romantic views you’ll ever see. 7. Nickerson State Park Massachusetts‘ first state park was established in Brewster in 1934. This 1,900-acre landscape of kettle ponds and shrub pines was donated by Samuel Mayo, widow of his Nickerson (1830–1914), one of the founders of the First National Bank of Chicago. Mayo died shortly after his mansion, Fieldstone Hall, burned to the ground. The park’s ponds, surrounded by pine trees, are prime spots for water activities, from swimming to kayaking. Near the visitor center at the northern end, the Cape Cod Rail Trail traverses the property, with bike rental and repair stations along the way. There are a total of 26 miles of trails in the park, and many small campgrounds dot the banks of the ponds, with more than 400 campsites. 8. Brewster Old King’s