The cute town of Wellfleet, halfway up Cape Cod's "forearm," boasts a glorious scene of beaches and no crowds, making it worth the 100-mile drive from Boston and Providence. Summer getaways are nice and all, but we actually love traveling this time of year. After all, it packs a punch in terms of great food, shopping, beautiful beaches and seaside pursuits. Perhaps youve heard of the Berkshires? The biggest Stockbridge attraction is the Norman Rockwell Museum. Visit the stunning house and garden of Naumkeag and hike through the galore of the backcountry trails to get some activity on an otherwise peaceful scenic vacation. And book your tickets now for the Wellfleet Oyster Fest, happening October 19-20.Distance from Boston: Two-and-a-half hours, Why its so great: First, a bit of trivia: North Adams is technically a city -- but its the smallest city in Massachusetts. The town center features a beautiful green park, surrounded by dozens of shops, eateries, and local services. 1. Of course, you dont have to be a scholar or have a penchant for the past to appreciate the enchanting communities scattered across the Bay State. Originally constructed in the Big Apple and moved here in the 1880s, a ride along this real piece of history is what really makes the visit like no other unforgettable. Minuteman National Historic Park to hike, glimpse the North Bridge (pictured above) and enjoy a picnic lunch. Check their calendar to see whats happening when youre in town! Whether youre going on a short weekend vacation, a long road trip, or even looking to relocate, Massachusetts has plenty of options when it comes to small towns that are BIG on charm. No sweat. Looking for something a little more action-packed? The year-round population of Provincetown hovers around 3,000 people, but in the summer, the population explodes to a whopping 60,000. You have got to see the Quabbin Reservoir from the Enfield Lookout in Ware, MA! Extreme inequities in additional state assistances per capita for Western Massachusetts cities compared with Eastern Massachusetts citiesfor example, in 2006, for every $278.66 Boston received, its neighbor Cambridge received $176.37, Greater . Queue up now. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. You have a few other options. So plan a weekend trip here, or make it part of a fun. Step into history at the Keep Homestead Museum, open seasonally, or immerse yourself in nature at Peaked Mountain Reservation. Provincetown. It's a top tourist destination in the summer, so if you're looking to go during a quieter time, try going in late fall or winter. Massachusetts native. The idyllic town, with a population of just over 5,000, is also full of culture and history. Discover the 11 most underrated towns in Massachusetts. Feast your eyes along the art-laden Commercial Street, flush with various galleries and incredible street art on the sidewalks and building murals, for an unforgettable experience. Trek along to the Shark Center and the Chatham Lighthouse for some cool marine scenery, and find a whole other natural world on a hike at the nearby Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. Beautiful inside and out during all seasons, youll marvel at the picturesque grounds and water fountain, cozy antique interiors, and deluxe breakfasts for two! From college towns and bohemian streets to art colonies, charming fishing villages, and island gems, these 11 small towns in the Bay State will charm you with big personalities, vibrant attractions, and scenery everywhere. Enjoy quick access from about anywhere on the mainland of Massachusetts to its protected beaches, perfect for families to enjoy calm waters and captivating views. Then theres Wolf Hollow, a North American wolf sanctuary that aims to correct the narrative surrounding these maligned creatures. Enjoy pad thai for lunch at Siam Village, put together a new outfit from Raspberry Beret, or see the latest blockbusters at Fine Arts Theatre, a restored historic cinema. The Glass Museum has relics of its major glassmaking industry in the nineteenth century, as well as more local history. Proof? Hey! Lounge along Oak Bluffs Town Beach or Inkwell Beacha delight on a stroll. Along with big, beautiful cities like Boston, it is home to many small towns, each one cuter than the next. Find the most gorgeous coastal spots for a stroll or days of lounging with views that make you feel like you're in Neverland. This is truly one of the, The Downtown Great Barrington Cultural District is home to several locally-owned businesses along with farm-to-table restaurants, entertainment venues, boutiques, and so much more! 3. states to join the union way back in 1788. would have lived. Fun, if hard to verify, fact: The shack is called the most painted building in the world. If youre looking to host an event in small town Massachusetts, Topsfield has plenty of ideal venues, such as The Commons 1854, Peirce Farm at Witch Hill, or Connemara House Farm. To be clear, its not like Ipswich is some best-kept secret. The town of Adams sits proudly to the east of New Ashford, and has a population of just over 8,000. Check out the Children's Beach, near the hotels, restaurants, and attractions downtown, and have a family day right out of the water. Its dozens of gallery and performance spaces host music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, and theater year-round. These towns were settled before America was even a twinkle in Thomas Jeffersons eye. Finally, just wander, gazing upon the village atmosphere of Stockbridge, its quaint inns, and its shops, such as the Williams & Sons Country Store on Main Street. The Hotel on North, a cosmo boutique hotel ensconced in two 19th-century brick buildings, serves as the launching pad from which you can explore this chic throwback town. Fool, youre favoring flash over substance. Head north to Broadway for local eateries, like The Milk Bottle, Barrels & Boards, or Crue Brew Brewery. Comfy Cute and lovely 1 BR APT w/Private Access. 2. Want to be the first to know about special deals, contests andupcoming events? 2. There are plenty of cute towns in Massachusetts, but Ipswich really takes the cake! The charming Essex County town, just one hour north of Boston, will suit every type of sightseer, group, and adventurer on parole. The Wellfleet Flea Market runs on weekends through mid-October, and in-town galleries like the Frying Pan Gallery keep weekend hours. On your last day in town, dont forget to stop for breakfast at Mug n Muffin on your way out! Join 4,000 others in weekly guides to the most beautiful places and hidden gems in the USA. If you need help to decide where to stay, play, or eat with Fido, you've come to the right place. Plus, the city how has two divine boutique hotels to choose from: the cheeky retro Porches, complete with a year-round outdoor heated swimming pool and hot tub, and the riverside Tourists, which offers walking trails galore and incredible deck views. Take to the trails at Mass Audubons Rough Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, or have a picnic in the little park across from the historic Rowley Burial Ground. 19 Small Towns in Oklahoma You Need to Check Out ASAP, 19 Charming Small Towns in Arkansas You Need to Visit, 21 Unbelievably Cute Small Towns in Florida to Check Out, 17 Charming Small Towns in Mississippi You Need to Visit, 17 Small Towns in Kentucky You Must Visit, 21 Charming Small Towns in North Carolina You Must Visit, 21 Quaint Small Towns in Ohio You Need to Visit, 21 Adorable Small Towns in South Carolina, 21 Cute Small Towns in Tennessee You Need to Check Out ASAP, 19 Charming Small Towns in Wyoming You Need to Visit, 17 Charming Small Towns in Nebraska to Visit Today, 23 Charming Small Towns in Pennsylvania to Visit Today. Small towns and wide-open landscapes are great places to be. Youve got to try the fried clams at Choate Bridge Pub! It, too, was born of a conversion, this time of a Gothic church. 1. As to what makes it so great? Take a walk through the village, stop for a coffee at one of the cafes, and pop into one of the galleries. Looking for a romantic getaway in small town Massachusetts? With regard to Amherst, you'll love the local shopping opportunities in this downtown district. These are the best small mountain towns with populations of about 10,000 or . What's new on theOther Side? Newburyport is like a delicious candy waiting to be unwrapped. This historic small town has a charming downtown area and plenty of museums and craft shops to explore. See whats happening at The Alley Theatre, enjoy a scenic picnic at Oliver Mill Park, or step into history at the Robbins Museum of Archaeology (open Saturdays only). Bringing the kids? Cobblestoned streets, upmarket boutiques, seafood eateries and historic churches are also part of the package. Do you have a favorite downtown area? Pile in the car and start driving! Then, head over to Leverett Village Co-Op to find some baked goods on the way out of town, or plan on stopping by their market on the second Saturday of the month! Western Massachusetts's small towns: The ultimate guide - Curbed Boston Expert Advice A guide to the small towns of Western Massachusetts Whether you're an outdoors enthusiast, a. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the seaside trails at Nasketucket Bay State Reservation, and the Walrus & Captain cafe and bistro provides an ambient dining experience with live music on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Why its so great: As the Bohemian sibling to Gloucester, Rockport is arguably the most photogenic town in Massachusetts. But our towns and villages are also buzzing with modern energy which comes mainly from the great people who live in them. -- with nature walks and changing leaves mixing it up with a still-humming foodie scene. Among its rich maritime history and sea views to all sides, you will find the most gawky lighthouses in the region, like the historic Great Point Lighthouse. Theres also plenty of attractive architecture to admire, bookstores worth browsing, Thornes Marketplace, concerts at Academy of Music Theatre, the R. Michelson Galleries and everything from pedal boating to mini-golf in Frank Newhall Look Memorial Park. If you want to pick up a piece of locally-made art or jewelry, Bearskin Neck is the place to go. Enjoy the tranquility around the beautiful Berkshire Botanical Garden, which has an impressive collection of ponds and picnic spots for recreation and relaxation. Sign up here for our daily Boston email and be the first to get all the food/drink/fun the Hub has to offer. Its also a terrific place to literally get back on that horse, as stables and horseback riding lessons abound throughout the bucolic and stone-walled area (and in the fall, you can actually ride horses on Crane Beach). Plan your Massachusetts road trip right now. With its history in the Revolutionary War, Newberryport gained popularity after abolitionism, especially in ecotourism, where all the tourists get their fix along the scenic trails in Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. The Berkshire Museum on South Street is a kind of sample menu, blending objects from myriad places and fieldsthink the Boston Museum of Science meets the Isabella Stewart Gardner. Recharge at local favorites like Wellfleet Beachcomber and Moby Dick's with seafood delights. Check out North Street, home of vendors such as the Funky Phoenix, which bills itself as the Berkshires leading producer of salvage art and home dcor.. Boston is the perfect blend of old and new. Stockbridge, with its iconic resident painter Norman Rockwell, who lived and created around this area, is stock-full of cultural history. Whether youre looking for shops, food, water, or history, Newburyport has you covered. The iconic US landmark and oldest platform carousel, the Flying Carousel, is a must-see and experience for all ages. No, you still cant pet them.Where to eat: 1640 Hart House for prime rib, Ithaki for authentic Greek, True North Ale Company for local IPAs, Russell Orchards for dandelion wine and cider donuts, and Ipswich River Provisions for any one of the many great sandwiches. Love Massachusetts? The inns restaurant, Grove, is open to the public and features delicious meals with an emphasis on locally sourced, fresh ingredients. There is also the expansive Field Park off South Street, near the Clark Institute (more on that later), and the 1753 Housea replica of where early settlers to that section of Western Mass. Check out The Patriots Hall of Fame, or catch one of their games at Gillette Stadium! The uncrowded town is full of relaxed vibes along the streets lined wonderfully by a selection of restaurants, shops, and galleries, as well as the Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater for every performing arts show you can imagine for the evening pastime. While youre in Ashburnham, be sure to check out the Frederick Piano Museum, which hosts piano concerts throughout the year. THE 15 BEST TOWNS IN VERMONT THAT WE MIGHT JUST MOVE TO, We Found the 7 Best Luggage Sets on Sale Ahead of Amazon Prime Day & They're Totally Worthy of First Class, The 7 Fall Vacations You Need to Book Now, The 9 Most Beautiful Places in New York State, The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Is the Compact SUV Thats Giving Us Quiet Luxury Vibes, 50 Free Things to Do in San Francisco This Summer, Christopher Seufert Photography/Getty Images. A short stroll or bike ride south from the museum complex is North Adamss Main Street, which includes a number of eateries, shops, the North Adams Public Library, and other museums-slash-art spaces, including the North Adams Artists Co-op Gallery, a member-run gallery space; MCLA Gallery 51, a space that the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts runs for mid-career contemporary artists; and the Berkshire Art Museum, which showcases emerging contemporary art. Despite being a relatively small state, Massachusetts counts two of the most iconic East Coast summer beach getaways among its lengthy roster of must-visit destinations. Well, oftentimes, the heart of a state lies within its small towns, and thats certainly the case for Massachusetts. Skip to content Go wine tasting at Queen Bee Vineyard, or opt for a casual dinner at Beths Family Dining. Spend some time exploring Minute Man National Historic State Park, Louisa May Alcott's Orchard House, The Old Manse, and Walden Pond before heading downtown. This seaside town has some of the most beautiful beaches on the Cape and a quaint downtown. Peruse the shops, head to the historic MacMillan Wharf, walk along the beach, visit a gallery, buy some salt water taffythere's so much to see and do in, Rockport is one of the most picturesque towns in the Bay State and is located a mere 40 miles from Boston. The postcard-like downtown is abrim with quality shops, cute coffee shops, and cafes serving delicious eats, like the town's top-notch restaurant, Impudent Oyster, with bacon-wrapped scallops. Chatham Also located on Cape Cod is the town of Chatham, 88 miles (141 kilometers) from Boston. Do you believe in aliens? The American painter spent the last 25 years of his life deriving inspiration from Stockbridge. Check out the metal dragon sculpture in front of the House of Art, which is right next to Memorial Hall an epic Victorian Gothic stone building thats an absolute must-see! 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Traditional American White Church in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Much of the activity centers around Smith College, which has an art museum and a beautiful botanical garden. 1. Take a self-guided tour of the arched railroad bridges in Middlefield. Now its time to dive into the adorableness that is Nantucket. Mattapoisett may only have a population of 6,500, but its bursting with exciting things to do! The Berkshire Historical Society now maintains that former farm as a museum to the author. Guess thats why everyone from the Obamas and the Clintons to celebrities like Spike Lee have escaped to this quintessential New England summer retreat. Enjoy viewing thousands of authentic local glassworks, other exhibits, and live demonstrations. If youre in need of some time spent in nature, Ipswich has you covered. Check out our list of the best small towns to visit in Massachusetts: 1. The largest town we recommendPittsfield has about 42,000 residentsalso has the largest selection of things to do and to see. This beloved summer getaway (which, we should mention, also wows in the fall, winter and spring) offers a blend of cute touristy and local stuff. Watch a play at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center after checking in with the river for the lovely sunset over the shimmering waters. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. The cute town along the shores of the Connecticut River in western Massachusetts will charm you with delightful surprises. Learn more about this, Norman Rockwell found Stockbridge's Main Street so quaint and charming that he used it as inspiration for his painting "Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas." The people who live here are very nice and all seem to be upper-middle class. I agree to receive email updates and promotions. These towns just kick it up a notch. You wont be disappointed! Wat Nawamintararachutis Meditation Center. Its important that you dont miss roaming the museums groundsmostly a series of decorative pondsas well. Those lucky to call Northampton home live amid wide-open boulevards and quality pursuits to inspire and spend time in between the creative processes. Wellesley Wellesley is the archetypal Massachusetts town. Breeze along Cape Cod's Shining Sea Bikeway. With a population of almost 30,000, it is famed for its education, visible in the number of students it has due to several colleges in the area. Spa Retreat, Lenox, Massachusetts. 19 Charming Small Towns in Massachusetts You Need to Visit. Take a day trip to Yarmouth for the notable Whydah Pirate Museum, with the world's only confirmed pirate ship artifacts that will fascinate the young and the old, as well as chronicles of the life and exploits of Samuel Bellamy, the "Robin Hood of the Sea," with weapons, gold, and silver treasures dating to a three hundred-year-old shipwreck along these shores. Besides the galleries, gift shops and BYOB restaurants in the harbor area, go see Motif No. Ipswich might just be the most underrated destination on our list. Not into skiing or hiking or hiking to ski? This legendary escape off the coast of Cape Cod attracts well-heeled holiday goers with its wind-swept dunes, cedar-shingled houses that belong on the cover of Architectural Digest and perfectly preppy atmosphere. Its downtown area can be found along Main Street as well as Bearskin Neck, an art colony filled with galleries, shops, and restaurants. ), and the classic clam-shack experience -- BYOB and all.Distance from Boston:An hour-and-a-half, Why its so great: We know what you do: Hop on the 90-minute ferry to P-town and call it a weekend. It is an ideal escape with no crowds for a change of pace and scenery, thanks to its array of green spaces for all you free spirits looking to escape the city walls and feast on charming country sights with strolls and picnics. Population: 4,678 (as of 2018) Located on the idyllic Massachusetts island of Martha's Vineyard, Oak Bluffs is a charming small town rich with history and culture, especially African American culture. When you visit, check out the Montague Book Mill. The artist lived in Stockbridge for the last 25 years of his life, and the Robert A.M. Stern-designed museum on the banks of the Housatonic River contains the largest collection of Rockwell art on earth. Skiers love Great Barrington because its a great jumping-off point for some of the best skiing in Western Massachusetts. Named one of the friendliest towns in America by numerous publications over the years, Provincetown is such an open-minded and friendly place where everyone is meant to feel welcome. Stay at The Inn on Shipyard Park, and enjoy a picnic in the waterfront park itself! Despite its remote location, this idyllic town is never lonely, with sightseers seeking views and pursuits around the island's lovely beaches. Columbia Zukas Hilltop Barn is the perfect venue for an elegant country wedding! Where to eat:Feather and Wedge for your cocktail needs, My Place by the Sea for high-end seafood served oceanside, and The Lobster Pool for hot boiled lobsters, outdoor seating (bring a blanket! Stockbridge Flickr/Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism No list of small towns in Massachusetts (or America, for that matter) would be complete without Stockbridge. Take a bite, and you will not be disappointed in this coastal gem, a definition of cuteness, on your next quick, 50-minute getaway from the city of Boston. Halibut Point State Park offers waterside trails and epic views into. Obviously, youre going to stop by the Norman Rockwell Museum. Stockbridge, Massachusetts Source: flickr Stockbridge, Massachusetts ), a cultural district boasting an indie movie theater (serving beer and wine! First up on your history crawl? ago If you want to spend the night, you'll be able to find several inns and bed and breakfasts around Main Street. Pack a picnic, then drive or hike up to this small but idyllic spot, where youll see deep blue waters, lush green trees (depending on the season), and maybe even some wildlife! The small area is also a treasure trove for foodies and shopaholics to satisfy all tastes and senses of style, along with enough to surprise friends back home. There are a couple of small beaches, several museums, a lighthouse, enviable shingled real estate, and enough dining and drinking options that youll wonder why all those whale belts are scurrying for the days last ferry. Where to eat:Macs Shack for oysters, cocktails, and sushi; The Wicked Oyster for lunchtime chowder, PB Boulangerie Bistro for all your pastry needs, and the nearby Truro Vineyards for a little afternoon wine tasting. From the outside, Sanctuary looks like just that: a sanctuary. Massachusetts is certainly not lacking in charm. ago Pretty much anywhere. The historic district is actually an outdoor museum populated by 18th-century homes, many hosting live art and cooking demonstrations. Because it means more space to sprawl out on Crane Beach, fewer tourists at Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, shorter waits at restaurants and the chance to explore Sandy Point State Reservation sans crowds. Dive into culture at the local Market Square and the Oldie's Marketplace, a giant barn crammed with charming trinkets. $69 . Visit the 19th-century Lyman Conservatory's Palm House, browse Raven Used Books, and feast on Rooster Rolls at The Roost. What are some small towns in Massachusetts perfect for a weekend getaway? Good for Families. Our state is teeming with teeny spots that manage to dodge (some of) the masses yet still offer architectural charms, fine dining, water views, and, of course, plenty of picturesque vistas. Then, grab a coffee or lunch at the FULLer CUP before heading over to the Griffin Museum of Photography to admire some breathtaking photos! The less you have to spend on bills, the more you will have to spend on things that matter: like your home, good food, Vineyard Vines, Lilly Pulitzer, Celtics tickets, and just overall good East Coast fun. And now its also in your inbox! Hikes include the Appalachian Trail and Natural Bridge State Park; additional art awaits you in Williamstown at The Clark; and a drive to the top of Mount Greylock (through October) earns you incredible foliage vistas. History enthusiasts will enjoy the artifacts and ship models at the Custom House Maritime Museum, while those looking for the perfect souvenir or gift will find clothing boutiques, jewelers, antiques, general gifts and even a record shop downtown! Regardless of the time of year you visit, you'll encounter historical sites, galleries, museums, plenty of dining options, and cafes on and around Commercial Street. Hikers and foliage lovers flock to this small, historic town to ascend Mount Watatic (elevation: 1,832 feet), an undeveloped mountain east of the Connecticut River in northern Worcester County. Bradford Tavern, Village Pancake House, and Simards Place are just a few of the other great dining options in Rowley. Concord is undeniably one of the prettiest small towns in New England and perhaps best known as the site of the first battle of the Revolutionary War. With less than 2000 residents it's a perfect example of small town New England. It has cute streets lined with small houses and stores, as well as inviting natural settings.
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