5 Massachusetts Tourist Spots I Tried to Hate (But Ended Up Loving)

I haven't visited Massachusetts as often as I have the other New England states, but my most recent trip had me wanting to visit the state more frequently. I was in town for a concert, and that allowed me time to explore several of Boston's most popular sites. Additionally, I've visited a few times before, when I was younger, on organized bus trips. There are quite a few spots in Massachusetts that I didn't expect to live up to the hype—but they all surprised me. These so-called "tourist traps" are actually must-see attractions in Massachusetts, ranging from varied dining spots to bustling amusement parks to unique museums that you can't find anywhere else. I don't always advise people to follow the crowds when visiting a place, but these attractions are the exception!

1. Faneuil Hall Marketplace (Boston)

Food halls are always hit or miss, with many serving overpriced grub that you can find elsewhere for much less. But the Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a very different story—and it's actually a historic site! Located in the Quincy Market building, this sprawling facility was once home to fishmongers and butchers. Today, it hosts over 100 stalls selling goods, food, and some of the best fried seafood you'll find in Boston. The historic vibes alone make it worth taking a walk through.

2. Six Flags New England (Agawam)

I have a Six Flags near me in New Jersey, and I've been there plenty of times - although the wildest roller coasters are a little much for me! I didn't know how Six Flags New England would differ, especially since many of the parks share coaster types, but the scenery of this place blew me away. The park is great for thrill-seekers, and also has a world-class waterpark. While many of the rides aren't running in the winter, the winter celebration is full of gorgeous lights.

3. Chinatown (Boston)

Coming from the New York area, we know Chinatown! The dumplings and noodle soups from downtown NYC are out of this world, so I was a little skeptical if Boston's could match. But from the moment I stepped through the towering Chinese-style gate, I was blown away. All the food I had here was excellent, but I'd like to give a special shout-out to the Dim Sum parlors in the area, many of which still serve their delicate dumplings the traditional way, by cart.

4. Salem Witch Museum (Salem)

Salem is the site of one of the worst early tragedies in American history, as the fervor of the early witch trials led to the execution of innocent people. Given that, and the reports I've heard about how chaotic Halloween is here, I was worried that this place had become a tourist trap rather than a place that pays tribute to its history. I shouldn't have been worried. The museums of Salem do an amazing job of capturing the complex history here and are both informative and engaging. I highly recommend taking some of the guided tours around the area.

5. Harvard Museum of Natural History (Cambridge)

Similar to Chinatown, I was predisposed not to be impressed with this museum on the grounds of Harvard—after all, the American Museum of Natural History in New York is where I grew up going. But while this college museum might be smaller, it's absolutely packed with must-see attractions. The fossils here, particularly the massive Kronosaurus, are majestic, and the glass flower display is one of the most beautiful exhibits I've ever seen.

Have you had the opportunity to visit any of these must-see attractions in Massachusetts before? Did they live up to the hype for you? If you'd like to find out for yourself, tell a travel buddy about this article and book your own getaway! And if you'd like some help building your own Massachusetts getaway, make sure to check out Only in Your State's AI-powered travel planner, which can take your prompts and give you a customized itinerary in only a few clicks.