Everyone In Massachusetts Should Check Out These 15 Tourist Attractions, According To Locals

Only In Your State recently asked local readers which Massachusetts tourist attractions they consider to be the best. Readers gave us lots of wonderful suggestions and came to a consensus on many places. If you are looking for some fabulous local spots to visit this year, check out these recommended attractions. In no particular order:

Cape Cod National Seashore, Chatham, MA 02650, USA

m01229/flickr

The Cape Cod National Seashore is one of the most beautiful places in the entire state. With nearly 45,000 acres of magnificent coastline, the National Seashore is a wonderful place to swim, boat, hike, or relax. It is the type of place where memories are made and people come back year after year. Find out more about visiting the Cape at the Cape Cod National Seashore website.

Fenway Park, 4 Jersey St, Boston, MA 02215, USA

Peter Ciro/flickr

One of Massachusetts’ most iconic attractions is historic Fenway Park. Built in 1912, Fenway is America’s oldest baseball stadium. Come cheer on the Red Sox and enjoy a cold beer and a Fenway Frank. Find out more details about the park at the Red Sox website. And for even more Fenway fun, take an informative backstage tour of the stadium.

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Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, 1000 Hall of Fame Ave, Springfield, MA 01105, USA

O World of Photos/flickr

And speaking of sports, did you know that the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is located in the city of Springfield? The museum contains unique basketball memorabilia and features a ton of really cool exhibits that highlight the history of the sport. Find out more at the official Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame website.

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The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, 21 Edwards St, Springfield, MA 01103, USA

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Do you like green eggs and ham? Even if you are not a fan, you are sure to love The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, also located in Springfield. Explore numerous interactive exhibits based on Dr. Seuss’ beloved literary characters and take a stroll through the museum’s whimsical sculpture garden. More information can be found on the The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum's official website.

Battleship Cove, Fall River, MA 02720, USA

Eric Kilby/flickr

Those interested in wartime history should pay a visit to Battleship Cove in Fall River. This place is really amazing! There are five National Historic Landmark US Naval ships at the museum as well as other exhibits, boats, and aircraft. More information can be found on the Battleship Cove website.

Salem Witch Museum, 19 1/2 North Washington Square, 19 1/2, Washington Square E, Salem, MA 01970, USA

Massachusetts Office Of Travel & Tourism/flickr

If you don't mind spooky places, take a trip to the Salem Witch Museum. At this top-rated attraction, immersive exhibits will teach you all about the Salem witch trials of 1692 and the hysteria that surrounded this horrific period in Massachusetts history. For more information, please refer to the Salem Witch Museum website.

Bridge of Flowers, 22 Water St, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, USA

Bridge of Flowers

The beautiful Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls is a lesser-known Massachusetts attraction, but one definitely worth visiting. This former trolley bridge adorned with gorgeous flowers is quite a sight to see in the summer as well as in the fall. Find out more information at the Bridge of Flowers website.

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Freedom Trail, Boston, MA, USA

Massachusetts Office Of Travel & Tourism/flickr

Several Only In Massachusetts readers recommended Boston’s Freedom Trail as a must-see attraction, and I have to agree. What better way to cover the history of our nation than by taking a journey along this 2.5-mile path? The tour includes 17 stops including the Old North Church, the Granary Burying Ground, and the Bunker Hill Monument. Find out more on the Freedom Trail’s website or book a guided tour.

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Quabbin Reservoir, Massachusetts, USA

Rusty Clark ~ 100K Photos/flickr

If you are surprised to see a reservoir on this list, you probably haven't visited the Quabbin. This dynamic man-made reservoir is the main water supplier for Boston and many surrounding areas. In the 1930s, four towns were relocated to create this massive body of water. The reservoir spans 39 square miles and includes a plethora of scenic hiking trails. The reservoir even has its own Visitor’s Center! Find out more at the Quabbin Reservoir website.

Doug Kerr/flickr

If you enjoy hiking, a visit to the highest point in the state is a must-do! From the top of Mount Greylock, you can see scenic views of the five New England States. Those who don’t wish to make the climb can still view some beautiful scenery by taking a drive along the magnificent Mount Greylock Scenic Byway. Find out more at the Mount Greylock Reservation website.

Plimoth Patuxet Museums, 137 Warren Ave, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA

Mark Heard/flickr

OIYS readers also highly recommend the Plimoth Patuxet Museums in Plymouth. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to see the Plimoth Grist Mill, the Patuxet Homesite, a village dating back to the 17th century, and the Mayflower II ship. The museum is open from early Spring to late fall. More information can be found on the Plimoth Patuxet Museum website.

Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA 01566, USA

Massachusetts Office Of Travel & Tourism/flickr

And for even more historical fun, pay a visit to Old Sturbridge Village in the town of Sturbridge. This living history museum is the largest in the area. By visiting the historic collections, touring the numerous original buildings, and watching the costumed staff work at period trades, you will feel like you are back in the 1830s. Visit the Old Sturbridge Village website for further information.

Walden Pond, Concord, MA 01742, USA

Geoff Livingston/flickr

Both outdoor enthusiasts and fans of literature will find Concord’s Walden Pond a fabulous place for a day trip. Hike the wooded trails, take a swim in the pond, and visit a replica of Henry David Thoreau’s cabin. More information can be found on the Walden Pond State Reservation official website.

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Museum of Science, Museum Of Science Driveway, Boston, MA 02114, USA

Bogdan Tapu/flickr

The Museum of Science is one of my longtime favorite museums. I have been visiting the museum ever since I was a kid, and now I frequently take my own children here. There are fantastic permanent exhibits that explore dinosaurs, human life, insects, and space as well as ever-changing new exhibits. The museum’s Omni Theater and the planetarium are also fun to visit. Further information can be found on the Museum of Science website.

Georges Island, Boston, MA, USA

Tung Nguyen Dang/flickr

Did you know that there are several islands that you can visit within Boston Harbor? George’s Island is one of these. Take a quick boat trip over to explore historic Fort Warren, which dates back to the Civil War era. You can take a guided tour of the island or sit back and have a picnic lunch. Find out more information about visiting George’s Island on the Boston Harbor Island’s website.

How many of these 15 local Massachusetts attractions have you visited? What other places would you add to this list? Be sure to also check out our list of some of the best restaurants in Massachusetts.