Most People Don’t Know These 12 Hidden Gems In Massachusetts Even Exist

Tired of the same old weekend plans? Sick of fighting for elbow room at the more high-profile tourist attractions? Have you heard of these 12 hidden gems in Massachusetts? They're definitely worthy of a visit and maybe even a coveted spot on your bucket list.

1. The Mapparium, Boston

Built in 1935, the Mapparium is a three-story-tall globe made of stained glass with a 30-foot-long viewing bridge running through it. Take a stroll through this spectacular work of art. Learn more about the Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library. (Be sure to check out the website before heading over to ensure that it is currently open.)

2. White Hut, West Springfield

Good food and quick service have made this restaurant a Springfield staple for decades. It temporarily shut down for a brief time in 2020 but came back stronger than ever as a food truck. Stop by to see what makes it so special. Okay, I'll give you a hint: the award-winning burgers definitely help. Check out the official website for White Hut.

3. The Brattle Bookshop, Boston

Browse through old favorites and modern classics in this three-story book shop. The bookstore holds distinction as one of the oldest "antiquarian" book shops in the United States. It originally opened in 1825. Check out the website of Brattle Book Shop.

4. Bancroft Tower Castle, Worcester

Bancroft Tower Castle was built in 1900 by Stephen Salisbury III to honor George Bancroft, who was born at the site in 1800 and later became Secretary of the United States Navy. Bancroft Tower is 56 feet tall. It's perfect for a picnic or a dramatic reenactment of a Game of Thrones episode. Learn more about Bancroft Tower Castle.

5. The Warren Anatomical Museum, Boston

Here's one for the lovers of oddball destinations. The Warren Anatomical Museum is an extension of the Harvard Medical Library and will give you a crash course in medical anomalies and the occasionally bizarre history of medicine. Check out the official website of The Warren Anatomical Museum. (Be sure to check current hours before heading over.)

6. Robbins Farm Park, Arlington

Perfect for the kids and former kids. The biggest draw? A giant set of slides set into the hillside. You can either take the stairs down to the playground or ride down on your bum. Find more information on Robbins Farm Park.

7. Castle Hill at the Crane Estate, Ipswich

You have to check out this dramatic estate that is straight out of Downton Abbey. From ruins to sweeping lawns that lead down to the seaside, you'll walk away with a camera roll full of gorgeous shots. Check out the official website of Castle Hill at the Crane Estate.

8. Stockbridge General Store, Stockbridge

Pop in for a small slice of classic small town New England charm. Norman Rockwell loved this place and so will you.

9. Hammond Castle, Gloucester

Completed in 1929, this is a gigantic Renaissance-style castle that was actually a wedding present from John Hays Hammond Jr. to his beloved. Today, the castle is a museum showcasing the late Mr. Hammond's huge collection of Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance artifacts. Take a self-guided tour through the library, the war room, the kitchens, the Natalie Hays Hammond exhibit room, servants quarters, as well as several smaller rooms and passageways including a secret passageway. Visit the official website for Hammond Castle Museum.

10. Santarella Gingerbread House, Tyringham

Santarella’s whimsical buildings were lovingly crafted by the artist Henry Hudson Kitson to bring his favorite storybook fantasies to life. Chances are you'll feel as though you've stepped straight onto the pages of a classic fairy tale. Learn more at the official website of Santarella.

11. Gunn Brook Falls, Sunderland

This gorgeous hidden waterfall looks as pretty as a painting. The water flows down the rocky steps in a fluid ribbon of white spray. Definitely a must-see.

12. Mytoi Japanese Gardens, Chappaquiddick

This is an incredible Japanese garden on Martha's Vineyard. The preserve includes a small pond and island, non-native and native flowers and plants, footpaths leading past a birch walk and stone garden, and a trail winding toward Poucha Pond and the salt marsh. Check out the official website of Mytoi Gardens.

Of course we haven't included every amazing secret spot. What are your favorite hidden gems in Massachusetts? Let us know in the comments! You'll definitely also want to check out these seven hidden beaches in Massachusetts.