4 Exciting Places in Massachusetts Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2026

As the year draws to an end, I am already thinking a lot about my upcoming travel plans. Fortunately, I don’t think that I will have to go far, because there is so much happening in Massachusetts in the upcoming year. 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the Commonwealth, and many local towns are celebrating 300 and even 400-year birthdays. A whole year of parties, parades, and activities awaits, and I don’t want to miss out on any of it. If you are searching for some exciting places to visit next year in Massachusetts, check out these four suggestions.

1. Salem

You may already be planning an October trip to Salem, but you might also consider making an additional visit earlier in the year. While there are tons of wonderful museums, restaurants, and shops to visit here year-round, 2026 will bring even more excitement to the Witch City, as Salem celebrates its 400th birthday. While the details for many of the festivities are still being finalized, Salem has already planned a kickoff festival, heritage parade, and other historical activities. The Salem 400+ events will not only mark the city’s quadricentennial but will also acknowledge the indigenous people who inhabited the land long before the area was founded.   

2. Stoughton

Salem isn’t the only Massachusetts community commemorating a milestone birthday in 2026. The town of Stoughton is about to turn 300 and will be marking the occasion with an epic year-long celebration. Highlighted events include a gala, a 300-year birthday party, and an unforgettable Fourth of July parade. While you are in Stoughton, be sure to check out the historic Mary Baker Eddy House and take the Bird Street Conservation Area Loop trail for a lovely birdwatching hike.  

3. Lexington

The town of Lexington had its 250th anniversary in 2025, but the patriotic celebration continues throughout the new year as part of the MA250 events. Be sure not to miss special Patriots’ Day events such as the Annual Patriots' Day Parade and the Reenactment of the Battle at Lexington. If you are interested in Early American literary history, the Lexington/Concord area is a great place to visit. Be sure to take a tour of Louisa May Alcott's Orchard House and see the replica of Henry David Thoreau's cabin at beautiful Walden Pond.

4. Foxborough

Although Foxborough isn’t celebrating an anniversary in 2026, the town will be overflowing with excitement as an epic sporting event will soon take place here. Next summer, Gillette Stadium will host seven FIFA World Cup 2026 matches with soccer teams from around the world competing against each other. If you are a sports fan, you don’t want to miss this rare opportunity to get in on all of the action. Be on the lookout for lots of local celebrations and special events. And if you are visiting from out of town, be sure to book your accommodations ASAP.

What are your travel plans for the upcoming year? Do you plan on visiting any of the places on this list? Wherever you decide to go, be sure to use the Only In Your State itinerary planner to customize your 2026 trip.