There are certain rules that all Massachusetts natives should follow once the mercury starts to rise. Check out this list of essential commandments that will make this year’s Bay State summer the best yet.
1. Thou shalt never drive to the Cape on a Friday evening.
Do you like pain? Because that’s how you get pain.
2. Thou shalt never drive back from the Cape on a Sunday evening.
Do this once, and you know that missing out on a few hours at the beach is SO worth also missing the hellscape that is northbound traffic.
3. Thou shalt wear sunscreen and check for ticks.
Lyme disease is no fun, and neither is a blistering burn. Massachusetts is definitely a hotspot for deer ticks, so be safe out there!
4. Thou shalt take a road trip out to western Mass. (if you live in the east), or spend a weekend on the coast (if you live inland).
This state is gorgeous, and packed with stuff to do from east to west. Get out of your neighborhood and check out what you’ve been missing. Art's Dune Tours in Provincetown is a great way to pack a bit of adventure into your weekend.
5. Thou shalt indulge in classic summertime treats from your Massachusetts childhood.
Who remembers peeling open a Hoodsie cup and using that little wooden spoon? Whatever your favorite hot weather treat was (Richie's slush anyone?) send your tastebuds into the past this summer.
6. Thou shalt order your Dunkin' Donuts iced coffee "regular" and try to keep the DD debris in your car to a minimum.
Your waistline will thank you for avoiding those liquid dessert iced coffees when you finally hit the beach.
7. Thou shalt attend an awesome outdoor event, especially after dark.
Whether it’s a show at the Boston Hatch Shell, a local baseball game or even a movie at a drive-in, it would be a crime not to take advantage of the balmy evening temps. And you’re never too young or old to enjoy a few turns on a ride and some tasty fair food. Check out the Barnstable County Fair or go all the way at the Big E, Sept. 18-Oct. 4. The Big E, also known as The Eastern States Exposition, is the largest agricultural event on the eastern seaboard and the fifth-largest fair in the nation.
8. Thou shalt catch a seaside sunset.
Skip the hot, crowded shore at peak hours and head to you local beach or harbor for a glorious summertime sunset. If you don't mind a bit of company, head to Madaket Beach on Nantucket for one of the most highly-rated sunsets in the nation.
9. Thou shalt eat a lobster roll/clam strips/chowder within sight of the ocean.
There’s nothing like fresh seafood, and we here in Massachusetts are lucky enough to have it within easy reach. Take advantage of the season and double up on a classic summer treat and a lovely view.
10. Thou shalt not worry too much about sand in your shoes…or wearing shoes at all.
Depending on where you live, you might spend most of the summer with warm sand or cool grass between your toes. Embrace it. It'll be back to snow boots before you know it.
Looking for some more awesome suggestions for great things to do this summer in Massachusetts? Look no further than our detailed list of the best warm weather experiences, events and activities to check out this season.
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