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Massachusetts
H istory buffs will want to put Massachusetts at the top of their travel list in 2025. Commemorations for the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War are in full swing, with what they’re calling Massachusetts 250. While you’ll want to fit Boston—known as the birthplace of the American Revolution—into your itinerary, festivities will be held statewide. This April marks 250 years since the "shot heard round the world” rang out at the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and these towns are pulling out all the stops to honor the occasion. Beyond the state’s proud, tea-destroying past, explore unspoiled nature, stop into charming coastal towns and dive into delicious seafood.
In April, the spotlight shines on Lexington and Concord. The two towns (about six miles apart) are hosting highly anticipated Patriots’ Day events for the 250th anniversary of the battles that kicked off the Revolutionary War. While the state officially recognizes the holiday on the third Monday of the month, April 19 is when the first battles occurred.
Lexington will kick things off the evening of April 18, with a reenactment of Paul Revere’s historic midnight ride. The following morning starts with a reenactment of the battle, the 111th Patriots’ Day 5-Mile Road Race and a Patriots’ Day Parade. Concord will begin with a dawn salute, complete with muskets and plenty of gunpowder, followed by a series of festive events including a parade and an evening drone light show.
It’s a landmark year for the Bay State
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The Concord Minute Man
Berkshire Farm | credit: Stephen G. Donaldson, Berkshire Visitors Bureau
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Outdoors
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Patriots' Day Parade, Lexington
Stockbridge Main Street | credit: Kindra Clineff, MOTT
Fall foliage in The Berkshires | credit: Ogden Gigli
Plan your trip
Nantucket Island | credit: Emily Elisabeth
Mission House, Stockbridge | credit: Ogden Gigli
Monument Mountain | credit: Ogden Gigli
George Washington Statue at Boston Common
The USS Constitution
Nauset Light on Cape Cod
Lobster boil
Craft beer on tap
Concord
The Berkshires
Clams
No matter the time of year, the two-and-a-half-mile Freedom Trail through the state’s capital city is worth a visit. 16 iconic sites are connected through this trail, including Boston Common, the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument. Opt to explore the trail on your own, or join one of the many tours available (most complete with guides in period-piece ensembles).
As one of the 13 original colonies, the state has no shortage of historic sites. While Massachusetts honors that history, it’s not stuck in the past. Thanks to the area’s bevy of leading universities, Boston has become a hub of technology innovation.
After you’ve spent some time immersing in the bygone days, find serenity in the “now” around the state’s mix of landscapes. The Berkshires, located in western Massachusetts, are scenic highlands just a couple hours' drive from Boston. This is an ideal destination for anyone looking to slow down, visit small towns and explore the outdoors with a hike or two (especially during peak fall foliage season). Among the area’s gems is the town of Stockbridge, home to the popular Norman Rockwell Museum and a quintessential Main Street lined with unique shops.
For a maritime adventure, head south of Boston to the Cape Cod peninsula and its nearby islands, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. The quaint beach towns that dot these shores call for relaxing, sandy walks and fresh seafood (more on this soon). Soaring lighthouses are a staple of the iconic coastal scenery in Massachusetts. One of these landmarks is the Nauset Light. It sits on Cape Cod in Eastham, adjacent to a beach of the same name. The restored lighthouse was moved to its current spot over one hundred years ago. Today, it’s open to the public for free tours on select dates. While the view inside is nice, the sight of the iconic red and white landmark under a sunrise glow is something else. If a visit whets your appetite for more, the Massachusetts Lighthouse Trail includes no fewer than 45 sites to feast your eyes on. Plot out some stops for a self-guided tour, or join a leisurely cruise of Boston Harbor.
Remember to pack your appetite while heading to the Bay State. Seafood lovers will rejoice at the plethora of options, including fresh lobster, oysters and, of course, famed New England clam chowder. Neptune Oyster in Boston’s North End is a place where you can find all three. It’s also got an expansive raw bar with East and West Coast oysters; delectable clam chowder; and lobster rolls served hot with butter or cold with mayo. One bite in, you’ll understand why this small space is always bustling.
Stick around the North End for authentic Italian food. There’s Sicilian comfort cuisine at Carmelina’s; fine dining at Mamma Maria; and for dessert, Mike’s Pastry. It’s perhaps best known for its variety of cannoli like mint chip, limoncello and pecan caramel, but it’s also got cookies, biscotti and lobster tails. Not to be confused with the real crustacean, these are pastries with a crunchy dough shaped like a lobster tail and filled with a decadent cream.
Wash it all down with a brew or two from one of the many craft breweries around the state. Offshore Ale Co on Martha’s Vineyard serves up beers brewed on site, including the East Chop Lighthouse, a golden ale; and the Lazy Frog IPA. Bask in the summer sun on the patio or set up in their cozy digs once colder weather hits.
Add Bright Ideas Brewing in North Adams to your list if you’re traveling to northwest Massachusetts. It’s situated on the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) campus. Peruse the exhibits before grabbing a flight of brews (perfect to sip on as you contemplate the creative works you’ve just admired).
Best Bet 2025
Massachusetts was chosen as a Travelzoo Best Bet for 2025. Only nine worldwide destinations were selected for this honor, based on factors like increased interest among Travelzoo members, sustainability considerations or landmark events for the new year. See the full list here.
Best Bet 2025
Best Bet 2025
Best Bet 2025
Massachusetts was chosen as a Travelzoo Best Bet for 2025. Only nine worldwide destinations were selected for this honor, based on factors like increased interest among Travelzoo members, sustainability considerations or landmark events for the new year. See the full list here.
Each town has its own identity, and there’s perhaps no better example than Provincetown (or “P-town,” as the locals call it). Situated on the very northern tip of the Cape, this lively seaside town is a beloved LGBTQ+ destination. Visitors can expect a welcoming town with good food, charming boutiques, unique art galleries and vibrant nightlife.
Provincetown
