7 Hills Every Massachusettsan Is Willing To Die On

Those of us from Massachusetts are just as passionate about our sports as we are about our coffee. But we really will fight to the death in an argument over sports. After all, our biggest rivalry (which happens to be the most famous in the country) is the one between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees. But that's not the only thing we are passionate about when it comes to life in Massachusetts.

From our love of Dunkin’ to our devotion to Fenway, Massachusetts pride runs deep. Here are some heartfelt beliefs every Massachusetts native agrees on:

1. Red Sox Pride Runs Deep in Massachusetts

Bay Staters are highly passionate about the Red Sox. But don't get them started about the Yankees. The Sox/Yankees rivalry has been going on for over 100 years, and those of us from Massachusetts have the most passion of any sports fans in the country. From generation to generation, this rivalry defines our sports identity – and it’s part of what makes being a Massachusetts native so fun.

2. Fenway Park Tops the List of the Best Ballparks in the U.S.

Not only is Fenway Park the oldest baseball park in the country and home to the Red Sox, but it is also a place that we will fight to the death over. There's so much history and tradition that happens within Fenway. From the Fenway Franks to the Green Monster and singing Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline," coming to a game at Fenway is a bit like coming home.

3. Tom Brady’s Legacy as the NFL’s Greatest Player Ever

Brady helped lead the Patriots to nine Super Bowls, and the team won six. Even though he moved on to the Tampa Bay Bucs before retiring, he's still the GOAT. Brady’s time in New England shaped two decades of football dominance – and cemented his legendary status among fans.

4. Boston’s Big Dig: A Costly Lesson in Construction Gone Wrong

Not only was the Big Dig the most expensive highway construction project in Massachusetts, but also in the country. It also took over 15 years to complete, with numerous issues arising along the way. The project ultimately cost nearly $15 billion and permanently reshaped Boston’s downtown traffic.

5. Massachusetts Runs on Dunkin’– Here’s Why

Why would we grab a coffee from anywhere else but Dunkin' Donuts? There are close to 1,100 Dunkin' Donuts around Massachusetts, and they outnumber Starbucks 4-to-1. Who wants to go on a Dunks run right now? From early-morning commutes to post-game pick-me-ups, Dunkin’ is part of everyday life here.

6. Locals Know – It’s the “Packie,” Not the Liquor Store

Short for "package store," we've become so accustomed to calling it a "packie." Sure, they sell beer, wine, and liquor, but we will always call it the "packie." Ask anyone from out of state what a ‘packie’ is and watch the confusion – it’s just one of those unmistakably Massachusetts terms.

7. Say It Like a Local: It’s on Cape Cod, Not in Cape Cod

And while we're at it, let's call it the Cape. Also, when you're leaving the Cape, you say, "I'm going off Cape." It’s one of those language quirks locals never get wrong – and yes, we’ll correct you if you do.

If you've lived in Massachusetts, what are some other must-visit hills? What are you most passionate about as a Bay Stater? Please share your views via this nomination form to let us know what gets you fired up about life in Massachusetts!

Then, see if you agree with this list of funny things Bostonians say that make us believe they are speaking an alien language. Finally, when planning to experience the Bay State like a local? You can use our Only In Your State itinerary planner to build your perfect Massachusetts adventure.