When it comes right down to it, most of us would probably prefer to live somewhere filled with natural beauty. Luckily, Massachusetts isn’t in short supply of that. With so many beautiful Massachusetts towns to choose from, it’s hard to pick the best of the best. However, here are a few small towns in the Bay State that offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state.
1. Rockport
Rockport is a sleepy seaside village dotted with old fishing shacks and cool local shops. It’s located on the Cape Ann peninsula about 40 miles north of Boston. This small town offers stunning views of the water, as well as the famed "Motif Number 1" art shack that is the most painted building in America.
2. Charlemont
Charlemont is a small town in Franklin County. This hill town community boasts magnificent views of the Deerfield River and is right along the Mohawk Trail. From working farms to cozy cabins and homegrown businesses, this is a picture-perfect New England town.
Provincetown is situated at the very tip of Cape Cod’s "arm." It’s a gorgeous town that is known for its thriving LGBT community and dedication to celebrating the arts. Ocean views abound here, and places like Race Point Beach and the Provincetown dunes are particularly spectacular spots to take in the scenery.
4. Shelburne Falls
Shelburne Falls looks as pretty as a postcard in all seasons. The beautiful Bridge of Flowers erupts in colorful blooms during the spring and summer, and the fascinating glacial potholes in town are an otherworldly natural attraction.
5. Princeton
Located in Worcester County and home to Mount Wachusett, this pretty town is the perfect home base for skiing and hiking excursions. It’s surrounded by amazing natural sites and the views from atop Mount Wachusett are unrivaled.
6. Chatham
Chatham is located on Cape Cod, about 88 miles from Boston. It has some of the most dazzling beaches and ocean views on the Cape, as well as a bevy of local shops, galleries and restaurants. Head to Lighthouse Beach to soak up sweeping views of the sea, sun and sand.
7. Marblehead
Marblehead is another gorgeous coastal town that had a long history as a fishing port before it became a seaside retreat area. It’s filled with old colonial homes and charming shops. Breathtaking views can be had from the harbor at sunrise (or anytime, really) as well as Devereux Beach.
8. Northampton
Northampton is known for its buzzing arts community and student life. While the options in town are great – catch a show at the Iron Horse or explore the town’s independent book shops – plenty of natural beauty is waiting at nearby Look Park and Norwottuck Branch Rail Trail. Stop by Paradise Pond at Smith College for an idyllic place to relax.
9. Concord
Concord is known for having hosted the first battle of the American Revolution, as well as being home to numerous historic and scenic spots like the Ralph Waldo Emerson House, Walden Pond and the Minute Man National Historic Park. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to breathtaking views in this town.
10. Edgartown
This island community is the perfect summer destination for gorgeous coastal scenery. Located on Martha’s Vineyard, Edgartown is packed with historic buildings, charming stores and plenty of tasty restaurants. You can explore around Edgartown Harbor Light for stellar views and sunbathing.
11. Lenox
This Berkshire town is the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood, as well as the year-round home of attractions like the Edith Wharton mansion and the Berkshire Scenic Railway. Downtown offers plenty of diversion, while the beautiful Berkshire hills are always within reach.
Please note that this is merely a list, not a ranking. What Massachusetts town do you think offers the most breathtaking views? Let us know! For more gorgeous spots around Massachusetts, check out our list of the most charming natural wonders in the state that you can reach without any hiking.
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