The deep respect, care and sense of wonder this area has for its natural surroundings are on display in many forms. The Polly Hill Arboretum and the Maria Mitchell Association began as one person's curiosity about the natural world. The Mass Audubon Society has eight nature sanctuaries on Cape Cod and the Islands, including two nature centers at Felix Neck and Wellfleet. With an eye toward inspiring the next generation of scientists, many nature centers and zoos let children get close enough to interact with the animals.
Fall Foliage
The leaves on Cape Cod and the Islands are the last to turn, starting around October 17th to 24th. With all the trails available for biking, horseback riding and walking, you can get right into the thick of the fall colors.
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Scenic Wonders
The Mass Audubon's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary has more than 1,100 acres that touch salt marches, woodlands, freshwater ponds and beaches. Explore the terrain and freshwater ponds that glaciers created in Nickerson State Park more than 10,000 years ago.
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Museums & Zoos
Elephants? On Cape Cod? One of the Buttonwood Park Zoo exhibits features Asian Elephants and much more on its newly renovated $10.5 million, 10-acre site.
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Nature Centers
The Maria Mitchell Association on Nantucket is home to several scientific explorations, including an aquarium, an astronomy department and tours that explore the birds, beaches and water of the island.
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Featured Cities
- Eastham:
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A coastal resort community straddling the arm of Cape Cod.
Find: Lodging | Attractions - Edgartown:
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Once a prosperous whaling port, Edgartown is now an elegant yachting center filled with stately homes.
Find: Lodging | Attractions - Nantucket:
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Throughout Nantucket, you'll find a wide range of restaurants and interesting antique, craft and specialty stores.
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Featured Attractions
- Heritage Museums & Gardens
Located in Sandwich, here you'll see rhododendron-filled grounds, early-American artifacts and antique cars. Learn more>>
- The Flying Horses
Like going around and around? The Flying Horses in Oak Bluffs is the oldest working carousel in America. Learn more>>
- Nantucket Whaling Museum
Restored 1847 candle factory and museum featuring exhibitions on Nantucket whaling history, decorative arts, Nantucket folk art and more. Learn more>>
Map of the Regions in Massachusetts
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- Where to Go
- Things to Do
Getting to the shops is easy - you can take the MBTA, rent a Zipcar, or even take the bus from various Boston hotels to Wrentham Village Premium Outlets. Don't miss Boston's world famous Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Essex's charming antique stores, and Yankee Candle's flagship store in South Deerfield.
- Plan Your Trip
- 50 Under $50
- Getting Around
State and regional resources, including air, land, and water transportation; Boston public transit info; detailed info on travel to Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Island
