There’s one thing very magical about winter in New England, and Massachusetts stands out as one of the crucial fascinating locations within the area. From charming small cities wrapped in snow to vibrant cities full of vacation festivities, the Bay State transforms right into a winter wonderland that is exhausting to withstand.
Undecided the place to go or what to see this season? Don’t be concerned: we have rounded up a few of the greatest locations in Massachusetts that can assist you profit from your winter getaway. Hold studying to find high spots excellent for snow adventures, cozy retreats, and every thing in between.
Lenox: a cultural and comfortable winter retreat
Lenox is one other Berkshire gem that shines within the winter months. Recognized for its cultural riches and Gilded Age mansions, Lenox combines historical past, artwork and snowy landscapes like few locations can.
A go to to The Mount, the big property of writer Edith Wharton, is particularly enchanting with a layer of snow.
Many native inns and bed-and-breakfasts supply hearth leisure, gourmand meals and spa providers, excellent for warming up after a day outdoor. In the event you take pleasure in winter sports activities, close by ski resorts resembling Bousquet or Jiminy Peak are inside simple attain. Or simply stroll the quiet streets and go to native bookstores, boutiques and bakeries.
Lenox gives the sort of winter tranquility that makes you need to keep an additional day or three.
Nashoba Valley Snow Tubing Park
Cannot ski? Attempt tubing! Go to Nashoba Valley Snow Tubing Park in Littleton this winter and hit the tube slopes. Reserve tubing time slots of as much as 2 hours in one of many park’s 18 tubing lanes.
Simply be sure to purchase your entrance ticket upfront – tubing usually sells out shortly!
Lowell Winterfest
Lowell hosts an annual Winter festival each February, with a weekend of actions, leisure and meals.
The winter carnival is likely one of the highlights of the annual Winterfest. It options an inflatable slide, carnival rides, marshmallow roasting, horse and carriage rides, a chocolate consuming occasion and extra. Be sure you mark your calendars accordingly and head to Lowell in February.
Plymouth: Historical past meets winter tranquility
Plymouth is greatest often known as ‘America’s Hometown’, and though most guests flock right here within the hotter months to discover its iconic historic websites, winter in Plymouth has a quiet magnificence that’s simply as value experiencing. Think about standing on the harbor the place the Mayflower as soon as docked, because the snow gently fell and the chilly Atlantic breeze carried centuries of tales.
The crowds are gone, that means you’ll be able to discover locations like Plymouth Rock, the Nationwide Monument to the Forefathers, and the Plimoth Patuxet Museums at your individual tempo, and infrequently with discounted admission.
Winter brings a particular peace to the waterfront, the place you’ll be able to stroll alongside the dock, watch the winter waves roll in, and seize a steaming cup of chowder at an area seafood restaurant. Lots of the eating places and cafes stay open all season, providing cozy locations to heat up and luxuriate in native flavors. The town can also be lit up with seasonal occasions, from vacation walks to ice sculptures, giving it a festive environment in January and past.
Jiminy Peak
Wachusett Mountain is not the one place in Massachusetts hitting the slopes this winter. Positioned in Hancock, Jiminy Peak is an outside fanatic’s paradise. Recognized for its standing as the most important ski space in southern New England, you’ll be able to hit the slopes whereas having fun with nice views.
One other enjoyable factor about Jiminy Peak is the Mountain Journey Park, with thrill rides and scenic chairlift rides to benefit from the views.
Bash Bish Waterfalls
Bash Bish Falls on Mount Washington shouldn’t be solely breathtaking in the summertime months. The state’s tallest waterfall can also be stunning in winter. Positioned in Bash Bish Falls State Park, you’ll be able to select to hike trails from 0.6 to 12.4 miles to get to the waterfall, relying on how a lot time you’ve and your mountain climbing talent degree.
Boston Frog Pond
Would you prefer to put in your skates and hit the ice this winter? The Boston Frog Pond in downtown Boston is an ideal vacation spot.
Skating on the Frog Pond is open each December and runs till March. Skate rental can also be out there. In the event you’re there in late November, you would possibly even catch The Haydenettes skating membership, because it performs yearly for the annual Boston Frequent Tree Lighting to kick off the vacations.
Northampton: artsy environment with a winter twist
Northampton is a kind of locations that feels effortlessly cool, regardless of the season. However in winter, this progressive pupil metropolis takes on a serene and magical environment.
The snow-covered sidewalks are lined with native retailers, unbiased bookstores and artwork galleries that invite heat and inspiration. In the event you like music or theater, go to a present on the Music Academy.
Hungry? The meals scene right here is unexpectedly nice, with every thing from vegan cafes to cozy pubs. Winter hikes at close by Mount Tom State Reservation supply breathtaking views and fewer crowds. Whether or not you are searching for tradition, espresso or only a distinctive winter environment, Northampton is a soothing place to be (in the easiest way).