Bordered by New York State and the Atlantic Ocean, Massachusetts occupies a prime position on the east coast of the United States. Rich in history, it is often considered the cradle of the country thanks to Boston's decisive role during Independence. But in addition to its cultural attractions, Massachusetts has undeniable natural assets: from the wild beaches of Cape Cod to the Berkshire Hills, its varied landscapes delight travellers! Here are 10 good reasons to discover Massachusetts. For more information, you can also visit the Visit the USA website
N° 10 - Taste the best clam chowder of New England
Massachusetts is known for its delicious seafood cuisine. As in all of New England, lobster is cooked in every way! However, the real Massachusetts specialty is clam chowder, a clam soup made with cream, potatoes and onions. Invigorating and warm, this dish can even be enjoyed in plastic cups on the beach!
N° 9 - Discover the best local sports teams
Like other American states, Massachusetts loves and supports its athletes! Every year, Boston hosts one of the largest international rowing competitions on the Charles River. The major American universities whose Harvard has its own teams and attending their training is an experience in itself! If you prefer baseball, the atmosphere of a Boston Red Sox game against the New York Yankees is second to none!
N° 8 - Embark for Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard
From Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard are easily reached by ferry or by plane with Cape Air. Nantucket, the wildest island, is of Indian origin. Its protected nature and harmonious architecture, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, appeal to the various celebrities who come to take refuge there. This is also the case for Martha's Vineyard, a posh island par excellence frequented by the Kennedy family. The beaches of both islands, swept by the ocean and bordered by moors and heather, offer a charming landscape all year round.
No. 7 - Celebrate Halloween in Salem
More than a tradition, Halloween is an institution in the United States! This is even more so in Salem, the "city of witches" located only 30 minutes from Boston. Founded in 1626 - making it one of the oldest American cities - it was the scene of a huge witch hunt in 1692. Today, the month of October is an opportunity to remember this sad event through various haunted happenings. Parades of all kinds and pumpkin cutting contests are on the program during this bewitching month!
N° 6 - Rediscover the history of the Pilgrims at Plymouth
Located one hour south of Boston, Plymouth was the first permanent English colony in the United States. In December 1620, 102 Pilgrims fleeing religious persecution in England landed from the Mayflower, a ship whose replica can still be visited in Plymouth Harbour. To learn more about this colony, don't miss "Plimoth Plantation", a brilliant reconstruction of the village built by the Pilgrim Fathers in the 17th century.
N° 5 - Opt for a hike in the Berkshires
Between Boston and New York lies the Berkshires region. Its unspoilt nature and country scent provide a breath of fresh air for locals and visitors alike. If the landscape is sumptuous all year round, during the Indian summer its colours are flamboyant! This period of thaw, between autumn and winter, is ideal for hiking on the "Appalachian Trail" from Lenox, for example.
N° 4 - Watch a sunset from the Skywalk Observatory in Boston
The Sywalk Observatory is the only observatory in New England. Located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower, the second tallest building in the city, it offers a 360° view of Boston and even Cambridge! At sunset, we marvel at the spectacle of the two cities, which are adorned with lights. After taking a look, you can even shop on the ground floor of the tower in one of the 75 shops.
N° 3 - Enter the Kennedy universe
Cradle of the Kennedys, Boston is home to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, an amazing educational centre dedicated to the 35th President of the United States and the American political system. Scenic reproductions can be seen on the streets of Boston in the 1960s, as well as in the President's office in the White House. Many period documents are to be discovered, particularly in the Pavilion: a glass atrium that houses national archives.
No. 2 - Admire the Cape Cod Lighthouses
Cape Cod is one of New England's most popular summer destinations. This peninsula bordered by long beaches of fine sand aspires to calm and tranquility. Edward Hopper, fascinated by the light of lighthouses in the dark, drew inspiration from the melancholic setting of Cape Cod to paint Colline avec lighthouse. Today, this painting on display at the Dallas Museum of Art is one of the most beautiful examples of the peninsula's maritime activity.
N° 1 - Marvel at the whales
Off Cape Ann, from Gloucester, several excursions are available to admire whales in their natural habitat and learn more about their way of life through the comments of biologists. The ideal season to meet them is from May to October, when these sea giants reach the coast to feed their young. For nearly 4 hours, you will be treated to an unparalleled natural spectacle in the middle of the ocean.
To plan your trip to Massachusetts now, visit Visit the USA!
