The heritage trails in Massachusetts paint vivid pictures of days past. Yet they are also a great way to explore parts of the state you may not otherwise think to visit.
Surprising every step of the way, and perhaps the most famous heritage trail in the state, is the Freedom Trail. Beginning on Boston Common, where hordes of red-clad British troops once trained, the red-brick Freedom Trail connects 16 Boston landmarks. The Black Heritage Trail is also quite popular, as it explores the history of Boston's 19th-century African-American community. The Salem Heritage Trail is a North Shore favorite: it transports you back to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 and the days of sea captains, pirates and noted novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne.
Quick Hits
The Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor in Central Massachusetts includes the Industrial Revolution Heritage Trail...The African-American Heritage Trail chronicles the experiences of African-Americans on Martha's Vineyard...The Irish Heritage Trail is a self-guided walking tour through Boston's downtown, North End, Beacon Hill and Back Bay.
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
