7 Wonders Of The World That Are Actually Right Here In Massachusetts
You don’t have to travel to faraway lands to experience some of the most wondrous sights in the world. Some of the most spectacular wonders in the world can be found right here in the Bay State. Don’t believe it? Check the gorgeous spots below and start planning your next sightseeing trip.
Of course, this list is partly in good fun. We know that the Pyramids of Giza probably have a leg up on some spots in Massachusetts. However, this state does truly have some totally epic places that are worthy of global recognition.
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These geological beauties are also known as the Rainbow Cliffs, and it’s easy to see why. The cliffs are striped with dramatic hues of red, gold, green, yellow and even purple. The striking colors are the result of the mineral composition of the area’s natural clays. This spot is utterly unique in the state, and feels like something you’d find in a more exotic clime. Standing atop the cliffs, you can see the Elizabeth Islands to the northeast, and No Man’s Land Island off the southern coast.
The USS Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel afloat. It was first launched in 1797, and was named by President George Washington himself. The 217-year-old ship is a piece of of floating history, and the only U.S. ship still in active service to have sunk an enemy vessel. The ship is currently undergoing restorations, but it will be open for public tours after the repairs have been completed.
You might not even know about this park unless you’re from the area, but it’s a true gem. It’s the site of the only natural white marble arch in North America, and also features an abandoned marble quarry that visitors can actually explore. This is definitely a surreal-looking spot that calls to mind a landscape you might find on an alien planet, but in a great way.
You don’t have to book a plane ticket to have that Downton Abbey experience you’ve dreamed of. Just head to Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich. This Gilded Age estate straddles the line between mansion and palace, with landscaping straight out of a storybook. You can explore the opulent interior, tour the romantic grounds, and head down to Crane Beach once you’re done feeling like visiting royalty.
A whole National Park dedicated to fun in the sun? Oh yeah. The Cape Cod National Seashore is definitely more than just beaches, but you can’t deny the gorgeous, unspoiled coastline is a huge part of this spot’s appeal. Sink your toes into pristine sands, explore coastal environments like the White Cedar Swamp, and hike the gorgeous dune trails.
The tallest mountain in Massachusetts, Mount Greylock is definitely a true wonder. It’s so magical, that J.K. Rowling chose the mountain as the location of Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry – the North American version of Hogwarts. In reality, this dramatic peak is an amazing place to hike and explore.
Unless you’ve been, you really can’t imagine how awesome this waterfall is. Plummeting almost 200 feet into a crystal-clear pool at its base, Bash Bish Falls is the tallest waterfall in the state. The cascade splits into two twin streams that drop in an 80-foot "V," which means that you’ll feel like you’re getting two waterfalls for the price of one. The falls are hidden away in a shady grove of hemlock trees next to the Mount Washington State Forest, but are an easy hike from the parking area.
Looking for more amazing Massachusetts wonders? Take a look at our list of the 15 most spectacular natural wonders in the state.
