From the east to the west and everywhere in between, Massachusetts is jam-packed with unexpectedly awesome things to do and see. While some people might consider the Bay State a stuffy, East Coast land of chowder and people who pahk their cah in Hahvud Yahd, they’re just plain wrong. Massachusetts is definitely the coolest state in the country, and here’s why.
1. We’re basically a foodie paradise.
Head to Boston for famaous eateries like the Union Oyster House, L’Espalier and Durgin Park and then drive out to western and central Mass. for a taste of truly local farm-to-form dining at spots like The Farm Table at Kringle Candle in Bernardston and Haven Cafe Bakery in Great Barrington. We have the best of all culinary worlds here.
2. Our arts scene is world-renowned.
There’s so much art happening here that it’s hard to keep track. Between internationally recognized spots like the Boston Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum to events like the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival or the annual Garlic and Arts Festival, there’s creativity in every corner of the Bay State. Plus, MASS MoCA is one of the largest centers for contemporary visual art and performing arts in America. No big deal.
3. We value tradition…
As one of the oldest states in the nation, we’re pretty proud of our history and take every opportunity to celebrate it. Between our amazing Fourth of July celebrations, our love of historical landmarks and the way the holidays here look like something out of a Dickens novel, Massachusetts loves to keep traditions alive.
4. …but we’re not afraid to embrace the future.
Massachusetts leads the nation when it comes to education, and the folks at MIT are certainly not stuck in the past. We’re home to companies like Boston Dynamics, which is pioneering things like jumping robots and other mildly creepy but definitely cool innovations.
5. Our small towns are just as exciting as our large cities.
Places like Provincetown, North Adams and Salem prove that you don’t have to be a huge metropolis to have a good time. Our small towns and villages are packed with things to do, see, taste and explore.
6. We’re a tiny state with summery beaches AND beautiful frosty mountains.
Maybe in a state as large as California, having both doesn’t come as such a surprise. But as one of the smallest states in the country, we’re so lucky to have somewhere to ski in the winter and splash about in the summer.
7. This place is packed with natural beauty.
From the rolling Berkshire hills to the glittering coast of Cape Cod, you’ll find a spectacular natural scene no matter where you go in Massachusetts. We’re so fortunate to live in a state where there’s a different stunning view practically around every corner.
8. And you can do pretty much any outdoor activity you want here.
Surfing? Check. Mountain climbing? Yup. Snow tubing, hiking and zip-lining? Sure thing. Massachusetts has a bit of everything in the way of having fun outdoors.
9. This state is bursting with quirky personality.
Massachusetts may have been founded by Puritans, but it’s grown to be a place brimming with unique attractions and truly one-of-a-kind spots. We have colorful spots like the Museum of Modern Renaissance, a gallery dedicated entirely to bad art, a festival that turns a town into a beach and so many other cool events and places.
Life in Massachusetts is undeniably cool, but it can also be a little weird. Check out this list of bizarre experiences that every Bay State native has had at least once.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.