The Ultimate And Definitive Bucket List For Everyone In Massachusetts
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Sophia
Author
There are so many incredible sights to see and places to explore in Massachusetts. From corner to corner, this state is packed with more adventures than you probably realize. Check out the experiences you absolutely must have in Massachusetts – the ultimate Massachusetts bucket list!
1. Explore the surreal landscape of Sages Ravine in Sheffield.
Sages Ravine, South Egremont, MA 01258, USA
This place looks like something from a fantasy film, and it's right here in Massachusetts. Take a long walk with a few friends, your hiking boots and a decent camera. The gorgeous foliage and crystal-clear waterfalls will enchant you.
2. Get lost in the Davis Farmland Mega Maze in Sterling.
Davis Mega Maze, 142 Redstone Hill Rd, Sterling, MA 01564, USA
CNN calls this maze the best field maze in the United States, and with good reason. With over three miles of pathways to explore, plenty of hidden surprises, and full-size attractions hidden within, it's an epic adventure close to home.
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3. Have a fried clam feast at the Clam Box of Ipswich or Woodman's of Essex.
Clam Box of Ipswich, 246 High St, Ipswich, MA 01938, USA
Woodman's of Essex, 119 Main St, Essex, MA 01929, USA
Both have been purveyors of fine seafood and delectable fried clams for generations. Woodman's even claims to have invented the fried clam.
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4. Visit one (or ten) of our 47 dramatic lighthouses.
Lighthouses are beloved Massachusetts icons, and totally worthy day trip destinations. Check out 45-foot-tall Nauset Light, which you may recognize from your nearest bag of Cape Cod Potato Chips.
5. Ride the rails on a Cape Cod Central Railroad scenic train.
Cape Cod Central Railroad, 252 Main St, Hyannis, MA 02601, USA
This is definitely one of the best ways to see the enchanting scenery of Cape Cod. There are plenty of scenic tours to choose from, including fall foliage, ale tasting, brunch and dinner trains.
6. Have a night out in Boston.
Boston, MA, USA
Between the shows, bars, restaurants and clubs, you're guaranteed to make some awesome memories if you grab your crew and head to the capital city for an evening on the town.
7. Win a game of candlepin.
Candlepin bowling might look a little odd to outsiders, but this Massachusetts variant is a ton of fun. It's definitely something every visitor (and native) should be sure to cross off their state bucket list.
8. Visit haunted Fort Revere in Hull, where hundreds of soldiers are buried beneath the grass.
Fort Revere, Hull, MA 02045, USA
Completed in 1777, this fort was instrumental to the country's fight for independence. Nearly 200 French soldiers (who were fighting for the American side during the Revolutionary War) died of smallpox at the fort, and reports of hauntings have plagued this beautiful spot ever since.
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9. Down some mutton and mead at King Richard's Faire in Carver.
King Richard’s Faire, 235 Main St, Carver, MA 02330, USA
Tucked away in an 80-acre forest clearing, this long-running Massachusetts autumn festival offers real jousting matches, fire-breathing displays, live tigers and aerial ribbon dancing.
10. Get in touch with your magical side in Salem.
Salem, MA, USA
Salem was the site of the infamous Salem witch trials, but this town has become much more welcoming to the spooky side of life since then. Visit homes from the witch trial period, explore the fabled House of Seven Gables, or just take in seaside charm of this historic town.
11. Feel the wonder at The Big E in West Springfield.
The Big E, Eastern States Exposition, Better Living Center, 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089, USA
The Eastern States Exposition is the largest agricultural festival in the region. This fall festival is known for its delicious fair food (try a double chili and bacon cheeseburger served between two glazed donuts), crazy rides and amazing entertainment.
12. See the rainbow cliffs at Aquinnah Beach on Martha's Vineyard.
Aquinnah Public Beach, 53 Moshup Trail, Aquinnah, MA 02535, USA
These dazzling cliffs look totally out of place in Massachusetts, and they're definitely one of the state's top natural wonders. Different clay and soil deposits form the layers of red, orange, yellow, white and even green and blue that make these cliffs so remarkable.
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13. Attend a clam bake or scallop festival.
Seafood is a big deal in Massachusetts, and these huge gatherings draw scallop and clam lovers from miles around. They mostly happen during the summer months, so keep an eye out for a festival near you.
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14. Discover the Quabbin Reservoir.
Quabbin Reservoir, Massachusetts, USA
You can hike, run, bird watch, fish, bike and picnic at this gorgeous waterfront spot. There really isn't a single part of the Reservoir area that isn't truly lovely, and it's one of New England's best kept secrets.
15. Check out the glacial potholes in Shelburne Falls.
Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, USA
These geological oddities are actually pretty gorgeous. More than 50 natural wells or "potholes" dot the granite expanse at the bottom of Salmon Falls. The swirling waters are really cool to observe.
16. Attend a show at Tanglewood.
Tanglewood, Stockbridge, MA 01240, USA
This place hosts some of the most beautiful and interesting performances in the state. It's a classic venue for catching a great local or international artist or symphony.
17. Climb (or drive) to the summit of Mount Greylock.
Mount Greylock, Adams, MA 01220, USA
It's Massachusetts' highest peak, and one of the most scenic spots in the state. Hiking to the top is a great experience, but you can also drive most of the way up.
18. Have dinner at the Union Oyster House, America's oldest restaurant.
Union Oyster House, 41 Union St, Boston, MA 02108, USA
This place is an official National Historic Landmark, and they've had almost 200 years to figure out what makes the perfect oyster. It's a Boston landmark and a seafood lover's dream.
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19. Take in the majesty of Bash Bish Falls.
Bash Bish Falls, Mt Washington, MA 01258, USA
The tallest waterfall in Massachusetts is a wonder to behold. You'll have to travel far out west to see this 70-foot cascade, but it's worth it.
20. Travel back in time at Plimoth Plantation and Old Sturbridge Village.
Plimoth Patuxet Museums, 137 Warren Ave, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA
Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA 01566, USA
These living history museums give you a taste of what life was like in Massachusetts hundreds of years ago. You can do period crafts, learn about how early settlers lived, and meet historical figures.
21. Head out to a ball game at Fenway Park.
Fenway Park, 4 Jersey St, Boston, MA 02215, USA
The stadium offers tours as well, if you don't want to spring for Red Sox tickets (though you really should).
22. Get in touch with your inner beach bum at the Cape Cod National Seashore.
Cape Cod National Seashore, Chatham, MA 02650, USA
Enough. Said.
23. Savor a roast beef sandwich from Kelly's.
Kelly's Roast Beef, 410 Revere Beach Blvd, Revere, MA 02151, USA
Kelly's claims to have invented the roast beef sandwich. With flavors this good, we're ready to believe them. Check out one of their five locations across the state, especially their Revere shop.
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24. Delve deep into Purgatory Chasm in Sutton.
Purgatory Chasm, Sutton, MA 01590, USA
This surreal stone chasm is one of the most unique hiking spots in the state. Scramble across boulders with names like Fat Man’s Misery, Corn Crib, and the Devil's Coffin.
25. Walk through history on the Boston Freedom Trail.
Freedom Trail, Freedom Trl, Boston, MA, USA
This self-guided walk will take you to all the most historic and awe-inspiring sites in our capital city. It's a great way to get a workout in for your brain and body.
There you have it: THE ultimate Massachusetts bucket list. For more Massachusetts beauty during the autumn season, check out our Massachusetts fall foliage road trip across the state. Proud of living in Mass and want to show off a bit? Check out all the offerings from our friends at Wear Your Roots.
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