Whether you are a freshman or a senior at Mount Holyoke, there are many attractions in Massachusetts that you have probably missed. During three-day weekends and other holidays when we choose to stay on campus, oftentimes we fail to explore attractions within the state and rush to buy our tickets to New York City and other commercial destinations. Before your time as a student ends at Mount Holyoke, and you have to move somewhere far, far away, these are five destinations that you must visit in Massachusetts. Check out the list before you rush to purchase your Peter Pan ticket to New York City or a destination far away.
1. Martha’s Vineyard
Often referred to as the Jewel of New England, it is on the southern coast of Massachusetts. It possesses a rich history and a thriving culture which us Mount Holyoke students are familiar with as our campus is historically and culturally rich. With miles of beaches, the Vineyard is perfect for students to enjoy the water during fall and spring break. The romantic in you will love the lighthouses, with the Gay Head and East Chop Lighthouses being over a 100 years old.
2. Salem
If you love all things historic and horrifying, you must visit the town of Salem during its October Halloween celebrations. Salem residents living in the location of the late Salem witch trials, boast a rich cultural pride in their town’s history. There is a month long celebration with parades, costume balls, haunted houses and tours of historic buildings. It is the perfect place to go if you want to spice up your October and de-stress after exams.
3. Whale Watch at Stellwagen Bank National
If you are a marine animal lover, then the Whale Watch at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is perfect for you. You can keep an eye out for whales and other marine animals on the boat tour of the area. In addition, there are shipwrecks that are a connection to 400 years of maritime history of New England. You can also travel with scientists who search and document the shipwrecks.
4. The Berkshires
If you are an outdoors person, the Berkshires is the perfect place for you. Surrounded by mountains, there are many opportunities for outside activities. It has numerous trails, such as the Appalachian Trail, large areas of wilderness, Kent Falls and much more. If you love waterfalls, it has the Bash Bish Falls which is the tallest waterfall in the state. There are also great art museums such as the Norman Rockwell Museum, Mass MoCA (Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art) and the Clark Art Institute. So the art lover in you will never be bored during your time at the Berkshires.
5. Cape Cod
It is the perfect summer-time destination, as it is filled with quaint villages, delicious seafood shacks, lighthouses, gorgeous beaches and ponds. If you are looking to visit a place with a vibrant art scene and night life, it is filled with numerous art galleries, theaters, cabarets and nightclubs. Overall, it is a wonderful destination to go with a group of your closest friends as you enjoy the gorgeous beaches with rolling dunes and amazing seafood.
