A National Historic Landmark, Boston’s African Meeting House is the oldest surviving Black church building in the United States. Built in 1806 by free African-American craftsmen, the building was an important cultural, educational, and political site for Boston’s Black community, as well as the location of many early antislavery meetings.
One of the best beaches for catching sunset views on Nantucket, this undeveloped stretch of sand on the island's west side is known for its rough surf and dramatic waves. Head here to bask and bathe, but bring a fully packed beach bag as there are no beach clubs or snack bars.
The LEGO® Discovery Center Boston turns the popular building blocks into a life-size playground. Perfect for families with young children, the themed destination is dedicated to the colorful blocks and features rides, attractions, and hands-on experiences including the chance to build a LEGO® car or a spaceship. There's also the DUPLO® park, which was developed specifically for visitors under the age of 5.
The 13-acre (5-hectare) Ballard Park is an elegant Newport oasis ringed with dense forest and plenty of green spots for sun and shade. The park features walking paths, streams, wooded ravines, a vernal pond, and two 19th-century quarries. Parts of the park even offer views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Formally known as the Raymond L. Flynn Black Falcon Cruise Terminal, Flynn Cruiseport Boston is one of Boston’s busiest waterfront hubs. Located in South Boston, the port serves major cruise ships and is most active from late March through late October. Upwards of 300,000 visitors pass through the port annually.
To understand the science and nature of Lake Champlain, go to ECHO. Formerly the Lake Champlain Basin Science Center, this museum specializes in immersive, hands-on exhibits that aim to inspire everyone to care for Lake Champlain, especially kids and pre-teens. Toss in the wonder of nature and the spark of scientific discovery, and you’ve got ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain.
See diverse exhibits at the Bruce Museum, one of Greenwich, Connecticut’s most beloved cultural gems. Located in a wooded area near downtown and Greenwich Avenue, the museum is a thriving center of art, science, and natural history, with a notable program of kid-friendly activities and events.
Just outside of Boston travelers can trade frenetic city energy for calm wilderness at Willard Brook State Forest. Find 2,500-acres (1,011-hectares of streams, trails, and greenery at this year-round outdoor destination. Hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing are popular here, and the fall foliage brings leaf peepers from all around.
Named for one of New England's most influential 19th-century residents, the Mary Baker Eddy Library is a library and museum housed a neoclassical building in Boston's beautiful Back Bay area. The top draw for visitors is typically Mapparium—a multi-story stained-glass globe depicting the world in 1935—which is featured on guided tours.
Gloucester, Massachusetts’ maritime history stretches back 400 years and today its fishing port is one of the best known in the country. Few other landmarks more movingly commemorate this nautical heritage than Gloucester’s Fishermen’s Memorial. Erected a century ago, it depicts the captain of a vessel navigating stormy seas, and pays tribute to the many thousands of local fishermen who’ve lost their lives at sea.
One of seven main beaches in the coastal hub of Gloucester, Massachusetts, Good Harbor Beach is also among the loveliest. Known for its powdery white sand and crashing Atlantic waves, it’s a popular place for seaside visits all year round. The nearby Salt Island can be reached via a sand bridge during low tide.
Cisco Brewers is a Nantucket-born-and-bred brewery that’s produced artisan beers since 1995. In summer, the brewery offers a free shuttle service from Nantucket town and a lively outdoor tasting experience with beers, cocktails, food trucks from island restaurants, and music. You can also join a brewery tour to glimpse the brewery’s inner workings.
The Atlantic Ocean has played a major role in Cape Cod’s history since 1639, and that history is on full display here at the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, which explores the peninsula’s unique maritime heritage. Rotating exhibits cover topics ranging from archival histories of Cape Cod’s whaling and fishing industries, lighthouse and boat design, nautical art, and even a scrimshaw collection.
