North of Boston & Greater Merrimack Valley have a strong bond. The coastline helped shape the towns and people that lived and worked with the sea. The natural beauty of areas like Walden Woods serves as inspiration to artists past and present. Several nature centers, sanctuaries and museums are dedicated to the preservation and exploration of this area.
Fall Foliage
Grab a bike, put on your hiking shoes or jump in the car and enjoy the changing colors on one side and the coastline on the other.
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Museums & Zoos
The National Heritage Museum, the Fruitlands Museum, Discovery Museum — you'll be surprised by how much fun you can have at a museum or zoo.
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Nature Centers
The Thoreau Institute's research and education center brings you closer to Walden Woods. The Nashoba Brook Wildlife Sanctuary gives you two long trails to explore. There is ample opportunity to discover the scenic views of this area.
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Scenic Wonders
Open from 5 A.M. until sunset, the Walden Pond State Reservation brings together natural beauty and inspiration. A unique spot in Westford is the Butterfly Place, where you can observe more than 50 species of butterfly.
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Featured Cities
- Gloucester:
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Here you'll find rugged fishing ports, great seafood restaurants and exciting whale-watching expeditions.
Find: Lodging | Attractions - Concord:
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Concord is where the famous Walden Pond and homes of many literary heroes are located.
Find: Lodging | Attractions - Ipswich:
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One of the oldest towns in the United States, founded in 1633, is centrally located on the North Shore.
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Featured Attractions
- The Lowell National Historical Park
Tour an old cotton mill, ride aboard an early 1900s trolley and learn about Lowell's storied past. Learn more>>
- Newburyport's High Street
This historic street is lined with early-American mansions that were built by wealthy sea captains and merchants. Learn more>>
- National Heritage Museum
This museum includes exhibits on everything from early-American 20th-century photography to New England neon. 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
