There’s a town near Boston that was home to an alleged serial killer, has a mystery rock that no one can decipher, and a motto of “we’ll try.” Combine that with a rich Portuguese heritage and vast collection of naval boats from World War II, and it’s fair to say that there’s no other town quite like Fall River, Massachusetts.

Fall River is located 50 miles south of Boston, close to the Rhode Island border.
Flickr/BeyondDC
Although the town was only incorporated in 1803, the area had been inhabited for much longer.
Flickr/Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism
Fall River was known for textile manufacturing. It was once the largest producer of cotton cloth in the nation and the second biggest producer in the world.
Several celebrities hail from Fall River, including chef Emeril Lagasse and journalist and ABC News host George Stephanopoulos.
Wikimedia Commons/Tulane Public Relations
But the most famous Fall River resident of all is probably Lizzie Borden.
Tripadvisor/dogluver2
In the late 1892, Borden became an infamous figure for her possible involvement in the brutal murders of her father and stepmother, who were discovered dead in their home, each with dozens of axe wounds.
Although Borden was found innocent at trial, public fascination with her continues. Today, you can tour her house.
Flickr/David
It’s now a B&B, so if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even stay overnight at this reportedly haunted hotel.
Tripadvisor/Paula B
Address: 230 2nd Street, Fall River
Stroll through Fall River’s parks, three of which were designed by Frederick Law Olmstead.
Flickr/Timothy Valentine
Nearby, Dighton Rock State Park houses a petroglyph-covered rock. No one has ever been able to unlock the mystery of its inscriptions.
Flickr/jps246
Make an appointment to view the 40-ton boulder and see if you have any better luck. After all, it’s been baffling people since the 17th century.

Address: 3rd Avenue, Berkley
Fall River has seven miles of riverfront to explore. Along the banks of the Taunton River, you’ll find the world’s largest collection of historic navy vessels.
Flickr/Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism
Wander around Battleship Cove. Here you’ll find boats like a naval destroyer, a submarine, and the USS Massachusetts.
Facebook/Battleship Cove
Address: 5 Water Street, Fall River
No visit to Fall River would be complete without stopping in at the Lafayette Durfee House. Step back into 1750, at the only restored colonial home open for tours in town.
Facebook/Lafayette-Durfee House
Address: 94 Cherry Street, Fall River
By the 1890s, twenty percent of Fall River’s population was Portuguese, mostly from the Azores.
Facebook/Estoril Restaurant
This influenced the food scene here; now the town boasts a cluster of delectable Portuguese restaurants.
Sagres (177 Columbia Street) and Estoril (1577 Pleasant Street) are both excellent options.
Facebook/Sagres Restaurant
Home chefs can pick up ingredients at Portugalia Marketplace to recreate the flavors of Portugal in their own kitchens. Tucked inside a building that was once a textile mill, this specialty grocery store is a must-visit spot.
Facebook/Portugalia Marketplace
Address: 489 Bedford Street, Fall River
If you’re seeking an eatery with a view, head to the Cove Marina and Restaurant. It overlooks the river and offers enticing seafood and steak entrees, along with artisan cocktails.
Facebook/The Cove Restaurant
Address: 392 Davol Street, Fall River

These are just a sprinkling of the attractions waiting for you in Fall River, a one-of-a-kind place that belongs on your bucket list.

Have you visited this fascinating little town? Do you have a favorite spot to visit? Let us know in the comments!

This fabulous day trip is easily accessible from Boston and it’s not the only intriguing destination close to the city. Check out these other day trip options for your next adventure.

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