People Live Their Whole Lives in Massachusetts and Somehow Miss These 4 Places

One of the more heavily touristed states on the East Coast, Massachusetts has no shortage of beautiful, historical, and interesting places to visit. However, a surplus of these areas means that locals are never left wanting for such things and oftentimes, miss visiting places that deserve more attention. Below are five such places that both tourists and Massachusetts locals alike need to visit!

1. Old Sturbridge Village

Location: Sturbridge

Known For: The Old Sturbridge Village is a living history museum, which more broadly refers to an environment that attempts to perfectly recreate a historical scene or landscape (one of the most famous ones in the world is Colonial Williamsburg). As the largest such museum in New England, the village recreates what a typical New England village and farm would be like in the early 19th century. Although this museum is a big hit with tourists, especially during the holiday season, locals often take for granted their proximity to the experience and miss it altogether. 

2. Long Hill Estate

Location: Beverly 

Known For: Massachusetts has a surplus of beautiful homes and historical estates, which is likely why the Long Hill Estate is often not thought of by locals or tourists. But with extensive gardens that were meticulously planned out and cared for, a hundred acres of woodland, and peaceful trails that connect it all together - why wouldn’t you want to visit this idyllic spot for a calm stroll amongst nature?

3. Norman Rockwell Museum

Location: Stockbridge

Known For: Not advertised nearly as much as it should be, this museum holds the largest collection of Rockwell art in the world. Although the building that houses the museum isn’t directly connected to Norman Rockwell, the city of Stockbridge is where he spent the latter half of his life. His work studio was actually relocated (with its original furnishings) to the museum during its creation. The space features almost a thousand different works, as well as educational spaces for children, archives of his letters, and offers scholarships and grants in the name of pursuing and protecting art.

4. The Bridge of Flowers

Location: Shelburne Falls

Known For: It’s historical, it's beautiful, it’s a community passion project, but it’s also seasonal, which means that although the Bridge of Flowers may be famous through photography, many people haven't actually seen it in person. And yet, although there are better times to visit than others for those who want to experience the bridge’s flora to the max, the surrounding small town and it’s classic New England charm make it a great visit all year!

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