TOP 30 Best Historical place to explore in Massachusetts

Welcome to Rehoboth Historic Cemetery 17, a cherished landmark nestled in the heart of Rehoboth, Massachusetts. Located at 10 Lorson Lane, our historic cemetery is a tranquil space that invites visitors to explore the rich heritage of the area. As a significant part of the Rehoboth community, Cemetery 17 offers a serene environment for reflection and remembrance, surrounded by the natural beauty of Southeastern Massachusetts. Our cemetery is home to the final resting places of many notable figures and local ancestors, providing a glimpse into the past and the stories of those who shaped our community. We are dedicated to preserving the historical integrity of the site while providing a respectful and peaceful setting for all who visit.

Welcome to the Swampscott Historical Society, a cherished local museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of Swampscott, Massachusetts. Located at 99 Paradise Road, our museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the unique heritage and stories of our vibrant community. At the Swampscott Historical Society, visitors can explore a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the town's evolution from its early days to the present. Our exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the town's maritime history, notable local figures, and the architectural development of the area.

iWillWalkBoston, LLC is a premier walking tour company located at 14 Dartmouth Place in Boston, Massachusetts. Our experienced guides provide informative and engaging tours of the historic city, allowing visitors to explore its rich culture and fascinating landmarks on foot. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to soak in the sights and sounds of Boston, iWillWalkBoston, LLC offers a unique and memorable experience for all. Join us for a tour and discover the beauty and charm of Boston on foot.

Welcome to Long Hill, a captivating park and tourist attraction nestled at 572 Essex Street, Beverly, Massachusetts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant history and natural beauty of this public garden, which has been flourishing for over a century. Originally the cherished summer retreat of the Sedgwick family from 1916 to 1979, Long Hill is renowned for its elegant and diverse plantings that reflect the creative vision of Mabel Cabot Sedgwick and Marjorie Russell Sedgwick. Explore the enchanting gardens, which are an exquisite blend of structured and naturalistic designs, spanning five acres of cultivated grounds. Wander through garden 'rooms' adorned with ornaments, statuary, and mature plantings that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding 100 acres of woodland. The gardens are a horticultural delight, offering a vivid display of colors and aromas, particularly in May and June, and maintain their beauty throughout the year.

Located at 138 Butler Road in Monson, Massachusetts, the Peaked Mountain Reservation is a stunning park and tourist attraction that offers visitors the chance to explore a former working forest and trek to a summit with panoramic views. The hike to the summit is strenuous but well worth the effort, as the 1,227-foot peak offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including Mount Wachusett and Vermont's Green Mountains. The reservation is home to a variety of wildlife, including songbirds, turkey vultures, and beavers, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Trails lead through quiet woods and past Lunden Pond, where visitors can catch a glimpse of the local wildlife. The reservation is also home to remains of a 19th-century charcoal operation, adding an interesting historical element to the area.

The William Cullen Bryant Homestead, located at 207 Bryant Road in Cummington, Massachusetts, is a museum and tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the life of the celebrated poet. The iconic red barn and serene vista of the Westfield River Valley served as inspiration for Bryant, whose poetry influenced the land conservation movement in the 19th century. The Homestead, where Bryant spent his summers from 1865 until his death in 1878, is filled with Colonial and Victorian pieces from his family, as well as memorabilia from his travels. While the house is not currently open for tours, the grounds and trails are open to the public. Visitors can explore the Rivulet Trail, Pine Loop, and other features of the pastoral landscape. The Homestead is a National Historic Landmark and a must-visit for those interested in Bryant's life and work. Additionally, The Trustees, who oversee the property, offer a Hiking Challenge and other opportunities to explore their many historic homes and cultural landscapes. Plan your visit to the William Cullen Bryant Homestead for a peaceful and informative experience in the beautiful Massachusetts countryside.

Chesterfield Gorge Reservation is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Chesterfield, Massachusetts, United States. Visitors can gaze upon an imposing gorge carved by a National Wild and Scenic River, with great fishing, hiking, and biking options just downstream. The dramatic rock canyon, formed by the East Branch of the Westfield River, features seventy-foot walls and offers a popular spot for catch-and-release fly fishing. The half-mile trail along the cliff tops provides wonderful views of the gorge, river, and surrounding forest, which is home to bears, bobcats, and turkeys. Access to the river through the gorge is prohibited due to dangerous water conditions. The property also features the stone abutments of a historic bridge that spanned the river around 1762. The Trustees, who manage roughly 27,000 acres of protected land in Massachusetts, are devoted to seeking, protecting, and caring for ecologically significant environments. Visitors are encouraged to take part in The Trustees Hiking Challenge and explore all the waterfalls and streams the organization offers. Additional land for Chesterfield Gorge Reservation was acquired through donations and purchases in the 20th century. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or simply enjoy the natural beauty, Chesterfield Gorge Reservation offers a unique outdoor experience for all.

Weir Hill is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in North Andover, Massachusetts, United States. Visitors can trace the western shoreline of Lake Cochichewick or hike through rare barrens habitat to enjoy scenic views of the Merrimack Valley. The 60-acre property features a diverse range of plant communities, including oak-hickory forests, wet meadows, and hillside seeps. The area's rich history of agricultural use, fire, and cutting and mowing regimes has created a unique patchwork landscape. Trails like the Edgewood Farm Trail and Weir Hill Trail offer opportunities to explore the beautiful surroundings, with options for easy to moderate hiking as well as more strenuous routes. The Mills to Hills Trail provides access to wet meadows and historic mills in downtown North Andover. The Stevens to Stevens Trail connects to the Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens, offering a chance to explore more conservation land.

Coolidge Reservation is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 15 Coolidge Point in Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts, United States. The institution features a scenic pond, a small forest of pine and oak trees, and a spectacular seaside lawn that offers breathtaking views of Massachusetts Bay and the North Shore. Named after the Coolidge family who owned the peninsula for generations, Coolidge Reservation includes the magnificent Ocean Lawn at the tip of Coolidge Point, where the family's mansion once stood. Visitors can also explore Bungalow Hill for solitude and views of Magnolia Harbor, walk along Clarke Pond, and enjoy the colorful beach pea and beach rose at Gray Beach. The property is open daily for visitors to enjoy the trails and natural beauty. With over 27,000 acres under management, The Trustees is committed to protecting environmentally significant areas like Coolidge Reservation. Visitors can also participate in The Trustees Hiking Challenge and explore other Trustees properties with their dogs. Whether you're interested in hiking, nature exploration, or simply enjoying a picnic, Coolidge Reservation offers something for everyone to enjoy.

s most beautiful estates, Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich, Massachusetts. Explore the grandeur of this historic seaside estate, with its beautifully landscaped grounds, restored Grand Allée, gardens, and Casino complex. Originally stewarded by indigenous peoples, Castle Hill has a deep and storied past dating back to the 1600s. The estate was transformed into one of America's great Country Place Era estates by Chicago industrialist Richard Teller Crane Jr. and his wife Florence Higinbotham Crane in the early 1900s.

Welcome to Tyringham Cobble Park, a captivating natural retreat nestled at 20 Jerusalem Road, Tyringham, Massachusetts. As a renowned park and tourist attraction, Tyringham Cobble offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Explore the wonders of this geologic marvel, shaped by ancient tectonic movements that left exposed bedrock atop a high ridge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the serene Tyringham Valley. The park's rich history dates back to the late 18th century when it was part of a 2,000-acre farm owned by a Shaker community. Today, it stands as a testament to conservation efforts, protected by The Trustees since 1963.

Welcome to Titus Mansion Ruins, a captivating destination nestled in the heart of the Tyringham Valley at 264 Main Road, Tyringham, Massachusetts. This enchanting locale invites you to explore the harmonious blend of history, art, and nature that defines Ashintully Gardens. Originally established in the early 20th century by Robb and Grace de Peyster Tytus, the estate once featured the magnificent Marble Palace, a Georgian-style mansion renowned for its reflective stucco exterior. Today, visitors can wander through the evocative ruins of the Marble Palace, where the enduring Doric columns stand as solemn sentinels of its storied past. The gardens, sculpted over three decades by contemporary classical composer John McLennan, offer a serene escape with their intricate mix of formal and informal designs. McLennan's dedication to creating this verdant masterpiece was recognized with the prestigious Hunnewell Medal from the Massachusetts Horticultural Society in 1997.

Discover the Legacy of Jack Kerouac in Lowell, Massachusetts Nestled in the historic Edson Cemetery, the Grave of Jack Kerouac at 5 Carlisle Street, Lowell, Massachusetts, is a poignant tribute to one of America's most influential writers of the 20th century. Known for his groundbreaking novel "On The Road," Kerouac's work embodies the spirit of the Beat Generation—a counterculture movement that embraced jazz, exploration, and the road less traveled.

Welcome to Pegan Hill Reservation Nestled in the heart of Natick, Massachusetts, Pegan Hill Reservation is a captivating park and tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and natural beauty of the area. Located at the highest point in Natick, Pegan Hill stands at 410 feet and is a classic example of a glacial drumlin, adorned with a lush forest of pine, oak, maple, and birch trees.

Welcome to Fort Hill Tower - Cochituate Standpipe, a historic landmark and unique local business located at 22-98 Fort Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts. Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Roxbury neighborhood, our iconic tower stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural beauty of Boston. Originally constructed in the 19th century, the Cochituate Standpipe was an essential component of Boston's water supply system. Today, it serves as a cherished monument and community hub, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while embracing the present.

Bartholomew's Cobble Reservation is a scenic and historic destination located at 105 Weatogue Road in Sheffield, Massachusetts, United States. This institution serves as a museum, park, and tourist attraction all in one, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience in the beautiful Berkshire region. The reservation is home to stunning natural landscapes, including a variety of plant and animal species, as well as geological formations that date back millions of years. Visitors can explore the well-maintained trails, take guided tours, and learn about the area's rich history and conservation efforts. Bartholomew's Cobble Reservation is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors in a serene and educational setting.

Field Farm Reservation is a park and tourist attraction located at 554 Sloan Road, Williamstown, Massachusetts, United States. It is known as Williamstown’s favorite authentic mid-century modern B&B and has been rated #1 Bed & Breakfast in Williamstown, MA by Tripadvisor. The institution offers a unique experience with two Modernist homes, including a bed & breakfast, and over 300 acres of open fields, woods, and wetlands with four miles of footpaths. Guests can enjoy a peaceful getaway vacation in the Berkshires or explore beautiful sculptures and architecture at Field Farm. The Guest House at Field Farm is an architectural gem offering authentic mid-century-modern accommodations with stunning views of Mt. Greylock. The property also features period artwork and thirteen sculptures in the surrounding gardens. Visitors can explore the property or stay in The Folly, a three-bedroom guest cottage designed by modernist architect Ulrich Franzen in 1965. Field Farm offers special winter discounts for guests staying between November 20, 2023, and March 11, 2024. The institution provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing on its 320-acre property. Guests can also enjoy hiking on more than four miles of trails with scenic views of Mount Greylock. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tail deer, coyotes, bobcats, beavers, turtles, and various bird species. The Guest House at Field Farm offers six spacious and finely appointed rooms with mountain views, although the facility is not wheelchair accessible. Visitors can use the electric car charger for overnight guests staying at the Field Farm Inn. The property also hosts private events and groups, and guests are encouraged to take a photo of the map or download a trail map before heading out. Field Farm is part of The Trustees, an organization dedicated to preserving and protecting Massachusetts’ special places. The institution offers a unique blend of history, architecture, design, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for a weekend trip or a cozy inn stay.

The Charles Riverboat Company is a renowned travel agency located at 100 Cambridgeside Place in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Offering scenic and relaxing boat tours along the beautiful Charles River, this institution provides a unique and memorable way to explore the historic city of Cambridge. With a variety of tour options and knowledgeable guides, the Charles Riverboat Company is the perfect choice for those looking to experience the charm and beauty of Massachusetts from the water.

Located at 153 Chickering Road in North Andover, Massachusetts, the Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens is a museum, park, and tourist attraction all in one. Step back in time as you enter a world that was once a farm, but transformed into an early-20th-century estate. The property was the summer home of Helen Stevens Coolidge and her husband, John Gardner Coolidge, from 1914 to 1962. Explore the newly expanded gardens and plantings that complement the gracious and refined home. Take a leisurely stroll through the Stevens to Stevens Trail, connecting the property to Weir Hill and other conservation lands. The institution is open from May through October, offering a glimpse into the past and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Herring Run Recreation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 810 Scenic Highway in Bourne, Massachusetts, United States. Recently awarded the Coastal Stewardship Award by the national Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation, this area is known for its programs to protect and preserve Buzzards Bay. A short documentary highlights the impact of nitrogen pollution on the Westport River and Buzzards Bay. Situated near the midpoint of the Cape Cod Canal, Herring Run Recreation Area is where the Herring River flows into the canal. During spring, visitors can witness hundreds of herring on their spawning migration upstream. The park features a family-friendly nature trail and easy access to the Cape Cod Canal Bikeway.

Located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, the Lyman Reserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to explore winding trails that lead from cranberry bogs and woods to a sandy beach at Buttermilk Bay. The reserve is home to the last remaining native sea-run brook trout fisheries in the eastern United States, with Red Brook flowing from White Island Pond to Buttermilk Bay. Visitors can enjoy catch-and-release fishing along the stream, as well as hiking trails that wind through freshwater wetlands, pine barrens, and a sandy beach. The one-and-a-half-mile loop trail provides a scenic journey through the reserve, with views of Buttermilk Bay and the Cape Cod Canal vertical lift railroad bridge.

Rocky Narrows, located at 87 Forest Street in Sherborn, Massachusetts, is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction that offers unparalleled views of the Charles River. Originally deeded to The Trustees in 1897 by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., this 21-acre reservation features a mix of hardwoods and evergreens, ancient 50-foot rock walls, and a diverse trail system for visitors to explore. Visitors can hike or canoe along the Charles River, admiring the scenic beauty of the granite cliff walls and wooded hillsides. The property also connects to the adjacent Sherborn Town Forest, offering seven miles of trails through pine groves, wetlands, and past King Philip's Overlook and Noon Hill Reservation.

Holmes Reservation, located on Court Street in Plymouth, Massachusetts, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction offering a glimpse into the history of the area. This open, grassy field was once a famous “Muster Ground” where Plymouth farmers in the militia would gather to practice shooting muskets and marching in formation before the Revolutionary War. Today, Holmes Reservation is a treasured oasis of open space in the city center, with stunning views of Plymouth Harbor and Duxbury Beach. Visitors can explore the nearby woodland, Old Colony Rail Trail, and beach, making it a great spot for families and nature enthusiasts.

Mashpee River Woodlands is a park located in Mashpee, Massachusetts, United States. Little affected by development, this tidal stream remains one of Cape Cod's most pristine environments. The Mashpee River is known for its pristine shoreline, natural spawning areas, and excellent water quality, making it one of Massachusetts' finest sources of rare, sea-run brook trout. Conservation efforts have protected this tidal river since at least 1915. The park features two miles of trails through the reservation, offering hikers the opportunity to explore restored pine barrens and quiet single-track trails along the river. Visitors can also paddle along the river with a canoe/kayak takeout at the old Farley Camp. The property includes a parking area with limited space, as well as additional parking areas on Meetinghouse Road and Old Barnstable Road. With over 27,000 acres under management, The Trustees is devoted to protecting ecologically significant environments across their portfolio. Visitors can participate in The Trustees Hiking Challenge and explore the diverse landscapes of their properties. Join a hands-on class or event at the ARC, the Trustees Archives & Research Center in Sharon, or learn bread art with Teri of Vineyard Baker. Explore the farm and meet the animals in a hands-on morning for the littlest farmers, or join a Portuguese Sweet Bread class and take home a loaf of your own making. The park's history dates back to the early 20th century when John W. Farley donated his land to The Trustees of Reservations, with additional land given by Pemberton Whitcomb and purchased by MLCT in later years. Wander along carriage roads and foot trails, passing through groves of American cranberries and woods to a sandy beach. Explore a landscape of broad fields and elegant double-faced stone walls, once part of a historic farm. Enjoy the natural beauty and diverse offerings of Mashpee River Woodlands.

Located on Fisher Street in Needham, Massachusetts, the Charles River Peninsula is a beautiful park and tourist attraction surrounded on three sides by the river. This restored grassland field can be accessed by foot or boat, offering stunning views of the Charles River corridor. The peninsula is home to a variety of wildlife and vegetation, including birch, hemlock, and beech trees. Visitors can follow a narrow footpath along the shoreline to reach the open field, which was once farmed for over a century. From the field's highest point, you can enjoy panoramic views of the river and spot an old wooden railroad trestle at the western end of the reservation.

Welcome to Naumkeag, a stunning museum, park, and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Stockbridge, Massachusetts. Located at 5 Prospect Hill Road, this exquisite 48-acre estate offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Gilded Age, featuring breathtaking gardens and a rare Berkshire "cottage" that was once the summer retreat of the Choate family. Designed in 1884 by the renowned architectural firm McKim, Mead & White, Naumkeag is a remarkable example of shingle-style architecture with 44 rooms that served as a family home for several generations. Visitors can explore the meticulously maintained landscapes, including 8 acres of formal gardens, meadows, and farmland, which provide a serene escape and a chance to step back in time. Please note that due to the estate's age and terrain, it is not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.

Mountain Meadow Preserve: Your Gateway to Nature's Splendor Welcome to Mountain Meadow Preserve, a captivating natural haven straddling the Massachusetts-Vermont border. Located at Mason Street, Williamstown, Massachusetts, this enchanting park and tourist attraction offers a delightful blend of forest, field, wetland, and wildflower meadow, perfect for both novice hikers and seasoned naturalists.

Old Town Hill Parking - A Scenic Escape in Newbury, Massachusetts Welcome to Old Town Hill, a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located on Newman Road in Newbury, Massachusetts. Nestled at the top of a 168-foot coastal hill, Old Town Hill offers visitors panoramic views of the Great Marsh and the distant New Hampshire's Isle of Shoals. This stunning landscape, once called Quascacunquen by Indigenous Peoples, is a harmonious blend of tidal rivers, salt marshes, open fields, and woodlands.

Welcome to Copicut Woods Parking Nestled at the gateway to the expansive Southeastern Massachusetts Bioreserve, Copicut Woods Parking offers a serene starting point for your outdoor adventures. Located on Indian Town Road in Westport, Massachusetts, this parking area is your entryway to a landscape rich in natural beauty and cultural history.

Welcome to The North End – Italian Neighborhood, your ultimate guide to experiencing the vibrant heart of Boston’s “Little Italy.” Nestled at 14 North Square in Boston, Massachusetts, this charming enclave is a captivating blend of rich history, diverse culture, and exquisite cuisine. Whether you're a local or a visitor, The North End offers a delightful journey through time and taste. Discover the allure of the North End, one of Boston's oldest residential areas, where the echoes of early European settlers mingle with the lively spirit of Italian immigrants. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you'll be greeted by rustic Italian street signs and the irresistible aroma of authentic Italian cuisine emanating from over 100 restaurants, cafés, and bakeries. From traditional dishes to innovative culinary delights, the North End is a paradise for food lovers.