Find the Best Things

The 10 Best Summer Activities in Massachusetts!

ma summer activities

Summer in Massachusetts opens all sorts of possibilities for fun activities. From the oceans to the lakes, the mountains to the cities, there are lots of things to do for people of all ages. Visit the Bay State and prepare to have fun. Consider the following activities when planning your summer! 


1.Cape Ann Whale Watch, Gloucester, MA

Take to the seas in Massachusetts this summer and go on a whale watch. Cape Ann Whale Watch is touted as best in the Boston area. There’s plenty of parking and the location is easily accessible from Route 128.

2.Tanglewood, Lenox, MA

Enjoy a performance by the Boston Pops, as well as other internationally-acclaimed performers in one of the world’s favorite outdoor music venues. Tanglewood features beautiful grounds, where guests can bring chairs, blankets, and a picnic supper and spend the evening.

3.Mendon Twin Drive-In, Mendon, MA

One of only three remaining drive-in theaters in the state of Massachusetts, Mendon Twin Drive-In is a must-see during a Bay State summer. There’s nothing like sitting in your car on a warm summer night, snacking on fresh popcorn, and watching a feature film.

4.The Freedom Trail, Boston, MA

Even though you can walk the Freedom Trail in Boston all year round, there’s something very special about doing so in the summer time. The nice weather means more people are on the streets of the city, and that flavor lends itself to the origins of our country. The Freedom Trail takes in many sights instrumental in the American Revolution.

5.The Clam Box, Ipswich, MA

As with the Freedom Trail, you can eat fried clams in Massachusetts during various times of the year, but there’s something about eating them in the summer that defines the season in the Bay State. The Clam Box in Ipswich is a casual dining spot, and the clams are fresh, sweet and delicious. Many Massachusetts residents make a point of driving to Ipswich once per summer to indulge.

6.Six Flags New England, Agawam, MA

A visit to Six Flags is a summer staple for many in Massachusetts, as well as folks from all over New England. The theme park is known for its daredevil rides and amusements for all ages.

7.Pick your own berries

Whether it’s blueberries, strawberries, raspberries or other plump, ripe and oh-so-delicious berries that tempt your taste buds, picking your own makes them even more delectable. There are several locations within the state of Massachusetts that offer the “pick your own” option, and it’s a must-do summer activity for practically everyone in the state.

8.Boston Gondola Tours, Boston, MA

You don’t need to go to Italy to ride in a gondola. In fact, you need only visit Boston Gondola Tours to enjoy a scenic, romantic ride on the Charles River. Their Venetian gondola tours are offered during the day and—for those looking for a more romantic feel—just before sunset.

9.Brimfield Antique Show, Brimfield, MA

Antiquing is a favorite pastime throughout the year in Massachusetts, but during the summer, avid antiquers flock the state in droves. Their favorite place to visit is the Brimfield Antique show, where countless dealers set up shop from May through September. The flea market is open during these weeks, but be sure to check the site for actual show dates.

10.Sandy Neck Beach, West Barnstable, MA

Massachusetts has several beaches along its small stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, but none quite compare to the beaches on Cape Cod. Probably the best of all Cape Cod beaches is Sandy Neck Beach. More than 4,500 acres of shoreline, sand dunes, marshes and forestland afford the best of everything for beach lovers. 

Hot Stories
Select a Massachusetts town to find
the Best Things To Do and Places To Go around you