15 Best Things to Do in Holliston (MA)

Located in the western metro area of Greater Boston, Holliston is a small city with a lot to like.

Halston Center is the type of city that will immediately draw you in, with businesses that have been here for years, no matter the client.

Recently, part of the railway line, abandoned since the 1980s, was converted into a track running along Holliston and through the city centre.

The local lake, located within walking distance of the centre, has two beaches with lifeguards on duty in summer, and farms in the surrounding countryside where you can pick your own fruit, or practice yoga with baby goats.

1. Downtown Holliston

It's hard not to fall in love with historic downtown Holliston, the civic and business heart of the city. Later in this list we'll talk about some of the businesses that have been part of the downtown Holliston scene for generations.

These await you at the intersection of Central Street and Washington Street, and you should give yourself plenty of time, from the old candy store to the antique shop, deli, gift shop, and historic restaurant. .

Washington Street here is preserved as the Thomas Hollis Historic District. Much of the development occurred before the Civil War, leaving the area with some of the best examples of Federal, Greek Revival, and Italianate architecture.

See the Greek/Italian Town Hall (1855), the Federal-style First Collegiate Church (1822), and the Federal-style Asa Whiting House (1817), now home to the Holliston Historical Society.

2. Lake Winthrop

Head south from Holliston Center, and in a half-mile you'll reach the north shore of this grand 131-acre pond.

In the 17th century, when Holliston was in the area that is now a colonial prayer town, the Napamuk village of Mixcote was established on the southwestern shore of the lake.

Not only is Lake Winthrop a place of true natural beauty, but beach access is also easy, with state parks at Stoddard Park and Pleasure Point on the east and west shores, respectively.

Both parks have sandy beaches, playgrounds, picnic pavilions, and boat launches. Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, a day pass is required on both coasts and can be purchased online or at the gate when we wrote this article.

3. Upper Charles Rail Trail

As we went to press, about seven miles of this rail track had been completed in Holliston from the Milford to Sherborne town lines.

It is located on the old Milford Branch of the Boston-Worcester Railroad, which dates from the 1840s and runs through Halston.

The trail is about ten feet wide and is paved with hard, rock-strewn dirt, and includes fascinating pieces of ancient infrastructure like the Phipps Tunnel.

Where the track passes through downtown Holliston are a pair of old warehouse buildings, one housing a tavern (Casey's) and the other a package store dating back to 1959. When completed, the Upper Charles Rail Trail will be 24 miles long, connecting Framingham to Milford. .

4. Holliston Superette

A longtime landmark of downtown Holliston is the deli and butcher shop, which first opened in 1960.

Holliston Superette prides itself on old-fashioned, personalized customer service, and attracts large lunchtime crowds for its handcrafted sandwiches made with cold Boar's Head cuts.

Hot sandwiches like chicken parm, bacon, meatballs, and pastrami and cheese are among the favorites, but the wide selection of cold options does not disappoint.

You could visit it every day for about a month and never eat the same sandwich twice. A wide range of delicious meats and cheeses, seasonal fruits and vegetables are available, as well as fresh baked goods daily, along with other prepared foods.

5. Holliston Grill

Open for more than two decades, Little Holliston Grill is a classic American restaurant, beloved for its simple breakfast and brunch dishes, prepared with quality ingredients and served in generous portions.

The building's story goes back a long way, and for half a century the place was known as "Pete's Lunch." You can sit in a booth along the wall or join the lively conversation at the table on one of the antique benches.

Menu selections include three-egg omelettes (with hash browns and toast), buttermilk pancakes, corned beef hash (prepared with a special recipe) and lunch options like grilled cheese and tuna and egg salad.

6. Putts and More

If you need an idea for a summer family activity, there's an 18-hole mini golf course along Concord Street in Holliston.

The course at Putts and More resembles an ornamental garden, with carefully manicured plants, hedges and shrubs, as well as lawns and water features.

If you consider yourself an accomplished putter who needs a challenge, the holes are a good test of skill, without a lot of crazy obstacles.

Putts and More has a few other attractions designed for younger members of the family, such as a splash pad and jumping pillow, while the snack bar serves takeout, cold sodas, and ice cream.

7. Fiske’s General Store

One of those old-fashioned businesses you hope to find in a small town, Fiske's General Store is several stores in one.

But most notable is its age dating back to 1863, making it the oldest business in the city to date.

The store, whose tagline is "Almost Everything," offers craft supplies, children's toys, home decor, fashion accessories, Holliston-themed souvenirs, board games, puzzles, greeting cards, candy, and other items based on a large sequence. to

8. Happy Goats Farm

If you've ever wondered what it's like to practice yoga surrounded by friendly baby goats, you can find out at this farm, located less than a mile from downtown Holliston. Happy Goats Farm began raising goats in the 2000s because of their playful personalities.

The farm also produces raw goat milk as well as certified organic eggs which you can purchase at the farm's self-catering stand. A full season of outdoor yoga classes, starting in the spring, accompanied by baby goats, who enjoy the chaos and relaxation in equal measure.

Also visit the annual Holiday Market in December, where friendly goats wearing reindeer antlers greet you, and an array of handcrafted organic gifts for sale.

9. Ashland State Park

This state park is located on the Holliston/Ashland city line on the edge of a former reservoir built in 1895 and retired shortly after World War II.

Ashland State Park deserves your attention any time of year, but especially in the summer when you can relax on the beach and enjoy a cookout at the adjacent site.

Besides swimming, Ashland Reservoir is a destination for kayaking, canoeing and fishing, and has small islands you can explore by paddleboarding out.

Out on the water, the hiking loop that surrounds the reservoir is 4.6 miles long and takes you past a 19th-century dam and spillway, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

10. Vietnam NEMBA Property (Adams Street Conservation Land)

At the southwest corner of Holliston and crossing the line at Milford and Hopkinton are over 1,000 acres of publicly available land with several miles of single-track and double-track trails designed for mountain biking.

Surrounding this landscape is a prime 47-acre parcel of land that was purchased by the New England Mountain Bike Association in 2003 to prevent development.

Vietnam is known throughout the region for its high-tech trails, aimed at intermediate and advanced riders. There is parking along Adams Street on the Holliston side, and the city's website has a detailed map to help you navigate the trails and locate NEMA property.

11. Our Lady of Fatima Shrine

One of the three mission centers in the United States for the Xaverian missionaries can be found in Holliston. Established in the 1940s, it is located in a rural area southwest of the city, just off the upper Charles Railroad track.

In the church grounds is a shrine to Marian apparitions allegedly seen by shepherd children in Portugal in 1917.

An interesting detail is a cross-section of a 3,000-year-old California sequoia tree, with a plaque indicating the size of the tree during important events in history.

There is a beautiful Christmas light display on December evenings, which can be enjoyed with some hot cocoa and whipped cream.

12. Patt’s Blueberries

Off large reservations in rural Holliston, this locally owned fruit farm welcomes the public during a short window each summer.

Patt's Blueberry offers pick-your-own blueberries — and nothing more — and is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays during picking season, which is usually mid-to-late July.

The berries can be plentiful depending on annual conditions, and it's not difficult to fill the provided can with 5 pounds of coffee.

The owners have a Facebook page to keep you up to date on what's in season, and you can grab a recipe card from afar for some cooking inspiration.

13. Goodwill Park

This small public park is located on the west side of downtown Holliston, within walking distance of local shops and restaurants.

Despite its close proximity to the city, Goodwill Park is located in a quiet residential neighborhood with a row of homes along Forest Street and Green Street.

On these five acres are a baseball/softball field, a large field used for soccer, as well as a pickleball field and a newly updated children's playground.

The area is fenced, with a sandbox, toddler-friendly equipment, and a picnic pavilion nearby.

14. Holliston Lions Carnival

For more than 60 years, the Holliston Lions Club has organized a summer carnival in town. This usually takes place over four nights in mid-July at Holliston High School.

There are a host of crowd-pleasing rides and game booths, as well as a food tent serving fairground fare like burgers, hot dogs, pizza, chili, chicken nuggets and fries.

Admission is free, and you can purchase a wristband to give you access to all the games. The event ends on Saturday night with a huge fireworks display.

15. Old Fashioned Harvest Fair

The Holliston Historical Society is located in the magnificent Asa Whiting House, built in the Federal style in 1812 and attached to an 1817 barn.

Every September, for over 40 years, the house's garden has hosted a much-anticipated antiques and crafts fair.

You can come and spend some time browsing over 70 vendor booths in search of a unique handcrafted item, a historical treasure, and more to keep you interested.

The society hosts an outdoor exhibition of interesting pieces in its collection, and there is a silent auction as well as a hot meal served by the society in the historic barn.

15 Best Things to Do in Swampscott (MA)

This northern coastal community dates back 400 years and has had a fishing fleet ever since.

One of Swampscott's first residents was Deborah Moody (1586-1659), a nonconformist who later became the only woman to found a village in colonial America.

In the early 1800s, Swampscott was where Ebenezer Thorndike invented the lobster pot, while the city developed the flat-bottomed Swampscott line for fishing for lobster.

Later, Swampscott became a sought-after resort, the origin of the Olmsted Historic District.

The neighborhood was developed by Central Park designer Frederick Law Olmsted with City Hall once the home of inventor Elihu Thompson.

1. Olmsted Subdivision Historic District

With Monument Street at the base, this meander of curving residential streets was planned by the famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted (1822-1903) in the late 19th century.

The land was purchased by the Swampscot Land Trust in 1887, previously owned by Enoch Reddington Mudge (1812-1881), and consists of a piece of the Humphrey estate, dating from the 1630s.

At the turn of the 20th century, the area featured grand homes in a variety of styles, including Queen Anne, Arts and Crafts, Shingle Style, Colonial Revival, Dutch Colonial, Bungalow, and American Foursquare.

With the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (1883) on Midge Square at the lower end, Monument Avenue slopes down to the oceanfront, and both Town Hall Lawn and Linscott Park have far-reaching views of Nahant Bay.

2. Elihu Thomson House (Swampscott Town Hall)

Swampscott City Hall is no ordinary municipal building. This colonial mansion was built in 1889 for inventor Elihu Thompson (1853-1937), who is credited with many innovations in electrical engineering.

He was one of the founders of the Thomson-Houston Electric Company, which later merged with Thomas Edison's General Electric Company to become General Electric.

After Thompson's death, his house was bequeathed to Swampscott by his heirs, and has housed the city offices since 1944. The spacious lawn is the scene of many events, including summer beachside parties and Swamptobarfest in September.

3. Fisherman’s Beach

Perhaps the most beautiful sight in Swampscott is this crescent-shaped beach, backed by a group of houses on a wooded slope.

There are small boats in the bay, many of which are still used for commercial fishing, and in the bay there is a wooden dock from the fish house, which has a stunning view from the end.

No parking sticker is required at Fisherman's Beach, as there is a lifeguard on weekends from late June to mid-August.

The name comes from the many fishing huts that used to crowd the beach here (more below). In the park next to Fisherman's Beach you'll find an English cannon cast in 1798, captured during the War of 1812 and purchased by Swampscott fishermen in 1835 as a fog signal.

4. Swampscott Fish House

In the late 19th century, when Swampscott emerged as a resort town, there were hundreds of fishermen's shacks on the beach.

In order to clean up the shoreline, the city incorporated these structures into a municipally owned fish house.

Still standing along Fisherman's Beach, the Swampscott Fish House is the oldest operating fish house in the United States and the only city-owned one.

The building is in the shingle style, with Colonial-style details and a mansard roof. About 20 commercial fishermen still reside in the harbor at the time of writing, while the Fish House has also been home to the Swampscott Yacht Club since 1933.

5. John Humphreys House

In the 1890s, when the Olmsted area was established, the historic house was moved from Elmwood Road to 99 Paradise Road.

The exact age of John Humphreys House is disputed. It dates from the 1630s when Deborah Moody purchased it from John Humphrey (c. 1597–1651), first deputy governor of the Massachusetts Bay Company, after his return to England.

Another analysis places the construction date around 1700. Either way, it is a well-preserved example of early period architecture, and is the oldest surviving house in the city.

6. Humphrey Street

The road, named after John Humphrey, runs northeast through Swampscott to Marblehead.

To the south, between King Beach and Fisherman Beach, there is a small but pleasant downtown area lined with locally owned businesses.

There are at least a dozen restaurants within a five-minute walk, whether you're looking for New England-style seafood (Mission on the Bay), New American cuisine (G Bar & Kitchen), or breakfast food (Lincoln's Landing). , or pizza Get. Ready to follow. Artisan pizza), or frozen dessert (creme brûlée, O-Yo frozen yogurt).

There are also small shops and gift shops, all within walking distance of two beaches.

7. Swampscott Farmers’ Market

From mid-June through October, the front lawn of Swampscott Town Hall is home to a good farmers market.

This event differs from many in its focus on locally grown and produced foods, with only a few (4 at most) arts and crafts vendors each week.

The idea behind this is to support agriculture in the area, and for shoppers that means a fantastic array of seasonal fruits and vegetables, from strawberries to pumpkins.

To go with this selection you'll find fresh-roasted coffee, maple syrup, eggs, honey, homemade sauces, baked goods, and an array of prepared foods, from crepes to chili specialties.

The market includes activities for all ages throughout the season, from dancing to kite flying.

8. Beach Bluff Park

On the Swampscott/Marblehead town line is a waterfront park that was once an empty beach area.

Beach Bluff Park has been developed by the Clifton Improvement Association (CIA) since the early 1990s. Local grasses are grown over the sea wall traversed by a walkway.

The seats have a pristine view, especially if you go early in the day to watch the sunrise.

The henge-like circle of the sun is a charming piece of public art, which aligns with the equinoxes and the winter and summer suns. Below, Prescott Beach is a small stretch of sandy beach that requires a parking sticker for residents.

9. Harold A. King Town Forest

In the northwest corner of Swampscott, you'll encounter one of the city's few large tracts of forest.

The Harold A. King Town Forest sits on approximately 50 rugged acres, on a terminal moraine filled with boulders that fell here at the far end of a glacier at the end of the last ice age. The forest is located on a steep slope that descends to the wetlands.

The land was slated to be developed in the early 1970s, before being acquired as eminent domain by the city because of its natural historical significance as a moraine, and as a scenic area for passive recreation.

From the parking lot at the end of Nichols Street, the main loop winds through the woods for about a mile.

10. Swampscott Lilac Garden

If you're in town around May, be sure to visit the north end of Monument Avenue where this gorgeous park opens.

Planted with approximately 130 lilac bushes and two trees, the Swampscott Lilac Garden is backed by the refined architecture of the Historic Olmsted Subdivision, and features a small gazebo and bench so you can stop for a moment.

There are many types of lilacs, which bloom early and late, in various shades of purple and pink. Some are highly scented and others have no scent at all.

11. King’s Beach

The western part of Swampscott Beaches goes to Lynn. Kings Beach isn't a big place for swimming or lounging on the sand, it shines because it's part of Lynn Shore Drive.

Here you are at the north end of a wonderful square, with a wide aisle and benches every few feet. The views of Nahant Bay are pleasant, especially if you come early in the day.

If you want, there's nothing to stop you from walking from King's Beach to the south end of Nahanti Beach, several miles away, without dealing with road traffic.

12. Marblehead – Salem Rail Trail

East of Swampscott, you can take a rail trail to the historic centers of two of Massachusetts' most popular towns.

The Marblehead – Salem Rail Trail has two branches, 4.5 miles long: one northeast of Swampscott to Marblehead Center, and the other from Marblehead Center to Salem.

Previously on the Boston and Maine Railroad, some trails were extended to the Eastern Railroad in the 1830s, while the Swampscott Branch was established in 1873 to provide a direct line between Marblehead and Boston.

You can begin your adventure on Bradley Street in Swampscott, and travel through leafy residential neighborhoods to downtown Marblehead.

13. Mary Baker Eddy Historic House

Another figure with historical ties to Swampscott is Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910), who founded the Scientist Church of Christ in 1879.

Swampscott has special significance in her story, as she was living here when she fell on an icy pier in Lynn in 1866.

According to contemporary accounts, this left her in a critical state, and shaped her outlook to such an extent that she later referred to her home in Swampscott (23 Paradise Road) as the birthplace of Christian Science.

The house is owned by the Longyear Museum, and the upstairs rooms have been restored in the style of the 19th century when I lived here. You can visit Thursday through Sunday, May through October, and the rest of the year by appointment.

14. Castle Creek Adventure Land

With so many attractions in one location, this family entertainment center is located right on the city line, in Salem.

The big attraction at Castle Creek Adventure land is the karting track, which has single and double-seat electric karts, and one ride takes you up to eight laps.

There's also an 18-hole mini golf course, complete with waterfalls, bridges, caves, fountains and a fairytale castle, plus lighting, so you can play after sunset.

Meanwhile, serious golfers can work on their swing on the fully-lit, 40-stall driving range, which has several covered tees and a fireplace that is open year-round.

Finally, Castle Creek has an ice cream stand offering over 50 different flavors of award-winning Richardson ice cream made in Middleton, Massachusetts.

15. Swampscott Arts and Craft Festival

On the second weekend in September, Linscott Park hosts an elaborate craft festival that has been part of the calendar for more than a decade. About 80 selected artisans sell their wares each year.

The variety of skills on offer is extraordinary, from ceramics to woodworking, oil painting, paper crafts, basketry, metal sculpture, quilting, photography, watercolour, leatherwork, and much more than we have here.

Live music is part of the fun of this free festival, and there's always great food on hand.

15 Best Things to Do in Mashpee (MA)

Located in the Upper Cape, Mashpee is known as the headquarters of the Wampanoag Mashpee Tribe, with hundreds of members living here.

The Wampanoag people are a large minority today, but were the majority of the city until the 1960s.

Housed in an 18th-century house, the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum is a great history lesson from a Wampanoag perspective.

Mashpee boasts thousands of acres of protected nature, with barrier beaches, sand dunes, tidal creeks, freshwater, salt marshes, swamps, upland forests and swamps.

Many of the waterways are calm and protected from the wind, so Mashpee is an ideal place for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, with a few local companies offering tours and rentals in town.

1. South Cape Beach State Park

Just south of Mashpee is a mile-long sandy beach overlooking Martha's Vineyard above Nantucket Sound.

South Cape Beach State Park is one of several properties of the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve that is completely devoid of development, containing only low-lying sand dunes, salt marshes and coastal forests.

You can access the beach via a newly created boardwalk, which also leads to a scenic platform. Lifeguards are staffed from late June through Labor Day, during which time daily parking fees apply.

2. Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum

To learn about Mashpee's unique story, be sure to stop by this museum and cultural center, which tells the story of the Wampanoag from the Stone Age to the modern era.

The site of the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum is important, as it is housed in one of the oldest homes in town, dating back to 1793.

It is located near the Mashpee River and has a fish ladder that allows herring to swim.

Inside you'll discover Wampanoag culture through archaeological finds and examples of tools and skills such as basketmaking and hunting and fishing gear.

The central exhibit here is a large diorama depicting an everyday scene in a Wampanoag village.

When we compiled this list, the exhibit “400 Years Ago” marked the anniversary of the landing of the Mayflower, explaining the turmoil the event had on the Wampanoag people.

3. Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge

Spanning over 5,000 acres in Mashpee and Falmouth, this national wildlife refuge was established in 1995 to protect critical habitat and its wildlife.

When you visit Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge, you'll be at the second-largest publicly accessible site on the Cape.

These freshwater and saltwater marshes, Atlantic white pine swamps, cranberry swamps, and vernal pool are a haven for wildlife, especially migratory waterfowl as well as raptors, coastal dwellers, and songbirds.

You can come to hike the miles of blazed trails and fire roads, which take neighboring partner properties to Moody Pond, or along the Child River.

4. Mashpee Commons

Dating back to the 1960s and remodeled in the 1980s, this popular shopping center and residential community could easily be mistaken for an organically developed New England village.

One of the big things in Mashpee Commons' favor is the abundance of unique, independent businesses that invite you to spend a few enjoyable hours exploring.

You will discover food markets, fitness studios, shops of all kinds, entertainment facilities such as Regal Cinema, and food to suit every taste.

5. Naukabout Beer Company

There aren't many craft breweries better situated than Naukabout Beer Company, nestled in an evergreen forest along the shore on the south shore of Mashpee Pond.

The design makes room for relaxing or celebrating, and the living room has an inviting 10,000-square-foot patio.

As for beer, the brewery focuses on New England IPAs, but there are malt beers, tropical fruit beers, and even a great non-alcoholic root beer that kids will love.

Knockout Beer Company travels year-round with live music, various food trucks, live comedy, sporting events, movie nights, family events and more.

6. Popponesset Marketplace

Now opened over 40 years ago near South Cape Beach State Park, this multi-use venue has many things rolled into one.

For shopping, the Popponesset Marketplace offers one-of-a-kind gifts, clothing, fashion accessories, beach gear, toys, antiques, hair care, local arts and crafts, as well as handmade candy, saltwater taffy, candy, and more. There are a group of small companies.

There is also a food market and several restaurants offering everything from gourmet grocery items to smoothies, ice cream, burgers, fresh local seafood, and pizza.

Throughout the summer, Popponesset Market is alive with live music and activities for children, and the schedule is posted on the website.

7. Cape Cod Children's Museum

The only museum on Cape Cod designed entirely for children is here in Mashpee, and it encourages imagination, curiosity and creativity.

Founded in 1990 by a group of mothers, the Cape Cod Children's Museum has been based in Mashpee since the 2000s.

It is run by a non-profit organization and has a large indoor space with hands-on exhibits, and attractions such as a climbable pirate ship, a playground for younger visitors, a high-profile stage, and a planetarium.

The museum hosts a wide range of events and programs throughout the year, from a Christmas visit with Rudolph to the Irish St. Patrick's Day Festival.

8. Raw bar

For many, the biggest draw at Popponesset Marketplace is this casual restaurant, which makes New England classics like clam chowder and crab cakes.

What really puts this place on the map are the lobster rolls. With its generous mounds of tender, steamed lobster meat, it's called the best lobster roll on the Cape. Alternatively you can get lobster for dinner, served with lobster and coleslaw.

Raw Bar is also famous for its cocktails, especially its amazing rum mix – all you have to do is add a little of your favorite white rum.

9. Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

South Cape Beach State Park is part of this 2,700-acre reserve, which consists of several individual sites around Mashpee and Falmouth.

Among these features, you'll encounter marshes, open water, barrier beaches, and uplands ripe for walking or paddling.

A good starting point is Waquoit Bay itself, home to the preserve's headquarters and the Sargent Historic District's visitor center. There are educational exhibits inside, and you can explore the reserve along a short walking trail with interpretive signs.

Elsewhere, Washburn Island's Barrier Beach is an important shorebird nesting site, the scenic Coashnet River has miles of trails, and the Great Flat Pond Trail Loop features boardwalks and views of freshwater marshes and gentle saltwater. There are platforms.

10. Mashpee River Reservation

A Mashpee reservation property custodian protects a portion of the undamaged tidal stream, draining Mashpee/Wakeby Pond and emptying into Pirate's Cove on Popponesset Bay.

With several preserves surrounding the city, the Mashpee River Preserve's two-mile-long trails connect to adjacent property, owned by the City of Mashpee, for a fun stretch of nature.

The preserve has single-track trails along the river, but also has a cotton loop in restored barren pine habitat.

To the southeast, you can take the Long River Trail, following the eastern shore, and taking you to the mouth of Popponesset Bay.

11. Rideaway Adventures

The Popponesset Marketplace is one location (one of five) of the Cape-based Adventure Company, which offers all kinds of active experiences on land and water around Mashpee.

Primarily, Rideaway Adventures offers biking, canoeing, and kayaking tours and rentals.

From Mashpee, you can take a short paddling trip around Popponesset Island, or, for longer, plan a full-day excursion with a picnic in Popponesset Bay for an unforgettable outing.

The ecologically rich Mashpee Bay and River are ideal for kayaking and canoeing, as the slow-moving waters are calm, mostly windless, and there is little difference between high and low tides.

12. Quashnet Valley Country Club

If you want a round of golf, one of the best public courses on Cape Cod is right here in Mashpee.

Quashnet Valley Country Club dates back to 1972, and its reasonable green fees may surprise you, especially on Cape Cod.

The course blends with natural terrain and habitat, and includes wetlands, ponds, streams and the Cushnet River on all but three of the 18 holes.

On your tour, you can see blue herons, pelicans and red-tailed hawks. Amenities include a putting green, driving range, pro shop, clubhouse rentals and a valley grill with updated views of the 9th fairway and green.

13. Peace Love Sup

This spinning paddleboard business is run by a SUP instructor and certified yoga instructor and offers many experiences around Mashpee.

With Peace Love SUP, you can take a tour or lesson next to Popponesset Spit, hang out on the beach during your break, or take a cruise around Popponesset Island.

Alternatively, you can avoid the crowds and paddle around Waquoit Bay and go ashore at Washburn Island. For another local adventure, take a cruise along the mighty river, watching herons, ospreys and wild birds on their way to the remote salt marshes.

14. Lowell Holly Reservation

On 135 acres, under the care of the preserve's trustees, you can find a rare example of ancient forest on Cape Cod.

Located on a peninsula between Mashpee and Whakibee Ponds, the land was named after Harvard University President Abbot Lawrence Lowell (1856-1943), who deeded it to the trustees in 1943.

Besides the natural beech trees and about 250 American holly trees, there are many remnants of Lowell's day, including rhododendron bushes and rose bay plants.

You can hike along the peninsula up into the hills to enjoy stunning views and cool off with a dip in the shallow pools on hot summer days.

15. Mashpee Mini Golf

Nestled in a pine forest next to Mashpee Commons is the 18-hole miniature golf course, which opened in 2017 and is also known for its affordability.

Mashpee Mini Golf is a rustic experience, where you can dodge waterfalls and pirate ships, elegantly designed greens, wood chip surfaces between the holes and twinkling lights that make the round after sunset create a beautiful setting.

With every new year, Mashpee Mini Golf adds something new, and the attraction is already an important part of the community, hosting fundraisers for local causes throughout the season.

15 Best Things to Do in Raynham (MA)

In southeastern Massachusetts, the town of Raynham was originally part of the Plymouth Colony, the first permanent colony in New England, and the second in North America.

In the 1670s, it was the site of the colony's first successful iron works, using iron deposits quarried along the Forge River.

Today the Forge River flows through many of Raynham's public spaces, such as Johnson Pond, quiet Hewitts Pond, and the Borden Colony complex, which is filled with recreational facilities and hosts the city's major annual events.

Most of Raynham's commerce can be found along Broadway (Route 138), with mostly independent businesses. To the south, Route 44 is home to department stores, shopping centers and the upscale Raynham Flea Market.

1. Raynham Flea Market

Near the intersection of Routes 24 and 44 you'll find New England's largest flea market. The Raynham Flea Market is held on Sundays year-round, and on Saturdays, Thanksgiving through Christmas.

You'll need to allow plenty of time to get attracted as there are more than 500 vendors in the 60,000-square-foot aircraft hangar-like building.

The market continues outside, with hundreds of other vendors, especially in the warmer months, all spread out over ten acres of land.

People visit Raynham Flea Market from all over the region to get deals on furniture, appliances, clothing, antiques, prints, collectibles and everything in between.

Inside there are clean communal facilities, as well as a restaurant for comfort foods like pizza, hot dogs, hot pretzels, nachos and funnel cakes.

2. Johnson’s Pond Recreational Park

Bordering the southeast corner of Rainham is this 1,200-acre state recreation area, on the densely forested shores of six lakes and ponds.

To explore Massasoit State Park, you can hike, bike or ride along shaded loops, skirting hidden ponds and crossing a network of cranberry bogs.

But the park also has a long, bumpy paved road, perfect for easy walking and biking.

Rico Lake, which makes up the western half of the park, is a destination for water activities, with boat launching on its northern shore.

This Massachusetts state park has more than 120 campsites, all in a cool, forested setting, complete with a small, secluded beach on Bear Pond.

3. Johnson Pond Amusement Park

This small waterfront is one of the few beautiful public spaces along the Forge River in Raynham.

Johnson Pond was first stocked with trout in 2009, and has been a fishing hub ever since, hosting the town's annual youth fishing derby in May.

Other times you can stop here to enjoy the views of the edge of the forest and the small island in the centre.

There are benches throughout the western and southern beaches, as well as picnic tables for a quiet meal in nature. If you're here in the winter, the pond becomes a popular outdoor skating rink for the city.

4. Borden Colony Complex

This 300-acre site, crossed by the Forge River, is home to the city's Parks and Recreation Department and is ready for all types of active and passive recreation.

The land has an interesting past, having served as a former shelter for traumatized World War I veterans. You can go for a walk in the Borden Colony complex, following woodland paths and paths through sheltered fields.

Sports facilities here include baseball, softball, and soccer fields as well as tennis and volleyball courts.

The complex is equipped with a gazebo that hosts many public events during the summer months. Finally, the Jared C. Monte Memorial Playground, designed for children under the age of five, is fenced and well-maintained.

5. Crue Brew Brewery

Tucked away in a quiet industrial area off Broadway, the craft brewery has a dedicated local following. Crue Brew Brewery is jointly owned by a husband, wife and brother team, and has been growing rapidly since 2014.

The taproom is open Thursday through Sunday, serving more than 20 different beers, lagers and hard seltzers at a time.

When we went to print, a few on the list were The Equalizer (IPA), Schlager (Golden Ale), Kegger (Lager), Fall In Love (Blonde Ale), The Equalizer (IPA), and Seasons of Change (Farmhouse). Ali) They were together. Along with a fleet of seasonal spiced beers.

There's usually a food truck outside, for the likes of lobster rolls, pizza and subs, and the calendar is packed with events from live music to trivia nights.

6. Hannant House

The headquarters of the Raynham Historical Society are located in this historic residence located on the corner of Pleasant Street and North Main Street.

Built around 1773, Hannant House had been in the Hannett family for over 70 years when it was bequeathed to the Society in 1999.

It was Avery K. One prominent resident is Gleason, who moved here in 1904 when he was minister of the First Congregational Church on the south side of the intersection.

Of note during the restoration work is a wonderful fresco in the dining room, painted at the turn of the 20th century.

Beit Hannat is open by appointment, and during one of the association's five annual meetings, which are free to attend.

7. Old Colony History Museum

For more information about the Plymouth Colony and its heritage, this large museum is located less than ten minutes away in Taunton, and has over 13,000 objects in its collection.

The Old Colony History Museum is open year-round and is located in an old building built in 1852 in the Italianate style.

Exhibits go into detail on a variety of topics, from settlement to immigration, society, industry, transportation, the military and fashion. The collection contains a rare collection of photographs, about 30 of which are on display on the first floor at any given time.

Recent temporary exhibitions cover a variety of topics from the labor movement and culinary history, and the museum hosts a number of historical talks, festivals, tours and exhibitions throughout the year.

8. Stoneforge Tavern & Publick House

Hearty New England pub fare is served with an international twist at this place, built in 1998 in a rustic style.

The name was inspired in part by Raynham's early ironworks, and the hotel, with its wood-beamed ceilings and wheeled chandeliers, evokes the hospitality of New England inns and old-time taverns.

Stoneforge Tavern & Publick House features clam chowder, clams on the halves, lobster rolls, fish and chips, and breaded and fried seafood dishes on the menu.

There are also steaks, burgers, brick-oven pizza, and a menu of comfort food staples like macaroni and cheese, chicken parm, and chicken pot pie.

In the summer, you'll enjoy live music on the patio, while the beer list features craft breweries from Massachusetts and New England.

9. Ryan Family Amusements

Located in the retail corridor along Route 44, this bowling alley is part of a regional chain of family entertainment centers.

The unique thing about the Raynham branch of Ryan Family Amusements is that there are lanes for both ten-pin bowling and candle bowling.

The latter is a regional style that arrived in Worcester in the 1880s with smaller balls and narrow pins.

Along these streets, you also have a games room with ticket machines and a prize office, as well as The Jockey Club for authentic pub meals, specialty cocktails and a long list of wines and beers.

10. Hewitts Pond Conservation Area

Just off North Main Street lies a beautiful piece of city-owned land, preserved by the local Conservation Commission. The 40-acre site is located on the shores of Lake Hewitts, which the city acquired in the late 1970s.

The pond has a long industrial past, having been built to power a mill along the Forge River, and today it is a good place to catch and release fish.

A walking trail wraps around much of the pond's edge, and there is a boat launch if you want to get up close to the painted turtles and great blue herons that typically appear on the water here.

The forest is a summer delight, dotted with wildflowers such as pink lady's slipper and native iris.

11. The Milk Bottle

Broadway in Rainham has a long line of restaurants and other businesses, with a mix of chains and independent businesses.

It's impossible to miss the Milk Bottle, a Raynham landmark since 1925. This 50-foot-tall tourist attraction is one of many giant new bottles made by Fritts Dairy in the area in the 1920s and 1930s.

Although the building has not changed, the food inside has evolved with each new owner. What started as an ice cream stand is now a popular breakfast spot, known for its generous portions and specialties like the famous bottle omelet.

It's made with linguica, sausage, ham, bacon, peppers, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms and cheese and comes with French fries and toast.

12. Raynham IcePlex

This single-rink facility is located just a short drive north of I-495 on Broadway. Amenities at Raynham IcePlex include an NHL regulation ice surface, pro shop, skate rentals, skate sharpening, seating for 250 spectators, free Wi-Fi, and a snack bar.

There are several public skating sessions each week, with a schedule on the rink's website.

Raynham IcePlex serves as home ice for the New England Knights, and hosts a wide range of programs, from skating basics for young children to a variety of skills for budding hockey stars and figure skaters.

13. Olde Scotland Links

An 18-hole links-style public course just minutes from the center of Raynham, designed to balance playability and strategy.

Opened in 1997, Olde Scotland Links caters to players of all standards across five pars, measuring 6,800 yards from the ends.

The trail is ranked among the best public access courses in New England and is accredited by the National Audubon Society.

There's a public driving range if you need a warm-up or just want to hit a few balls, while the Pro Shop stocks all the major brands from Titleist to Nike.

14. Bay Circuit Trail

This 230-mile trail runs through Boston's outer suburbs, forming a wide arc between Newburyport to the north and Duxbury to the south.

The Bay Circuit trails have evolved since the 1990s, taking full advantage of Greater Boston's countless parks, preserves, and conservation areas.

The trail passes through the north end of Raynham, where the Hocomoke Swamp is a large part of the Wildlife Management Area.

For a longer hike, you can head east, along the city's Green River to West Bridgewater, or travel northwest through Easton, starting at Wheaton Ranch and eventually ending at Borderland State Park.

15. Raynham Community Day

One of the annual events held at the Borden Colony complex is this newly created festival on the third Sunday in September.

Organized by the Raynham Association of Volunteers for Education (RAVE), Raynham Community Day features dozens of vendors, exhibits, a food hall and several open houses around the complex.

There's plenty of entertainment with demos by local groups, concerts by local bands and a Pats game broadcast live on the big screen. Children won't be left out, as there are plenty of activities such as face painting, a magic show, pony rides and a live animal show.

15 Best Things to Do in Belchertown (MA)

The city, with a population of just over 15,000, is located east of the prominent university town of Amherst, and is known for its historic fair held each September.

The Belchertown Fair continues to be a sight to behold, with timed attractions and events from a parade along Main Street to a livestock show.

Belchertown boasts stunning views from the eastern peaks of Mount Holyoke to the seemingly limitless expanse of Quabbin Reservoir, the state's largest inland body of water.

From Belchertown it is possible to hike west along the Metacomet-Monadunk Trail, or head east to Quabbin Park, climbing to great views in the hills on the reservoir's south shore.

1. Mount Holyoke Range State Park

Belchertown is located in the eastern foothills of the Holyoke Range, an east-west mountain stream that runs to the east bank of the Connecticut River at Hadley and South Hadley.

The range is part of the Metacomet Ridge, which traces the Connecticut River valley for 100 miles from Long Island Sound to the MA-VT border.

From Belchertown, you can drive seven miles to the ridgeline of Mount Holyoke Range State Park, most of it within the city of Amherst. Crossing the ridge here, admiring peaks like Long Mountain (920 feet) and Norvotic Mountain (1,106 feet) is the Metacomet-Monadnock Trail, which hugs the ridge for 116 miles.

In Belchertown, pick up the trail off Bay Rd on Bay Path Rd and soon you'll be admiring the views of the Fort River Valley for miles.

The state park has more than 30 miles of trails, and for longer hikes you can head west to Skinner State Park.

2. Quabbin Reservoir

The northeast corner of Belchertown touches the largest body of inland water in Massachusetts. The Quabbin Reservoir, which covers an area of 38.6 square miles, was built in the 1930s, wiping four towns off the map in the process.

Together with the Wachusett Reservoir, it is Boston's main water source. Water moves from front to back along the 25-mile-long Quabbin Canal, one of the longest aqueducts in the world.

It is 2,640 feet long and 295 feet high, and has a great view from Winsor Dam, just west of the reservoir.

Located in the Quabbin Administration Building, the Quabbin Visitor Center contains fascinating facts and figures as well as displays explaining the history of the reservoir and its importance to greater Boston.

3. UMass Cold Spring Orchard

The University of Massachusetts Amherst has an agricultural research park in Belchertown.

Here, UMass scientists are looking for ways to reduce the amount of dangerous chemicals used in growing fruit, studying the resistance of different trees to pests and diseases, and finding ways to grow more fruit with less space. .

For the public, UMass Cold Spring Orchard is a place where you can enjoy stunning views of the Mount Holyoke Mountain Range, and purchase delicious apples after summer and fall.

More than 100 varieties are grown here, including Macon, Cortland, Red Delicious, Honeycrisp and McIntosh, and you can bring a picnic to make the most of the rural views for as long as you want.

4. Belchertown Town Beach

Located off Route 9, Arcadia Lake is a beautiful place, with a backdrop of high, undulating hills to the east and west.

In the summer, you can relax on the beach at Town Beach, which has a large expanse of sand, a roped swimming area, and amenities including picnic tables, charcoal grills, outdoor showers, and changing rooms.

If you want to see more of the lake, you can rent rowboats here during the season. In the off-season, Town Beach is home to a sailing team made up of five colleges – offshore, Arcadia Lake is known for strong winds that test even the most accomplished sailors.

5. Belchertown Center Historic District

You can take a look around downtown, protected as a historic district, to learn about the history of Belchertown.

Essentially public, it is unusually large at 1,200 feet long, and includes a Civil War memorial and a bandstand dating back to the 19th century.

In the summer, find Belchertown Community Band concerts here. More than two dozen houses built in the 18th and 19th centuries are shared, most of them timber-framed. Arguably the finest single building in the area is the Clapp Memorial Library (1887) on S. Main Street.

Built in the style of a Roman basilica, it was financed by bequests and is still held in trust.

The building is crowned by an octagonal lantern, part of an eight-foot tower. Inside, take a look at the magnificent stained glass windows in the arcades, which depict an allegorical image of literature to the south, and Saint Cecilia, patroness of music, to the north.

6. Stone House Museum

Founded more than a century ago, the Belchertown Historical Society maintains this impressive Federal-style home, which is open for tours on Saturday afternoons in the summer.

The Stone House was built in 1827 as a wedding gift for the daughter of a wealthy local landowner.

The interior is presented as it would have looked in the 1840s, and you can see nine rooms filled with period items including fine 18th and 19th century ceramics, furniture, quilts, musical instruments and historical costumes.

One room is dedicated to the museum's special exhibitions, which highlight a particular aspect of the city's history and are updated every two years.

The Ford Annex here was built with money donated by Henry Ford, and displays preserved farm implements, cobbler's tools, looms, spinning wheels, sleds, and wagons.

7. Quabbin Park

Most of the Winsor Dam and its drainage are adjacent to the Weir District, which acquired land to the north when the reservoir was built.

Here, Quabbin Park is located on a peninsula on the shore of the reservoir and has a few worthwhile attractions within easy reach of Belchertown.

The park has 22 miles of forest roads and hiking trails, one of which leads to the summit of Big Cobben Hill.

The summit is crowned by the Quabbin Observation Tower, which offers an exceptional 60-mile panorama in all directions.

Other notable viewpoints in the park include Bull Mountain Hill and Enfield Lookout, which can be reached by road or walking from the observation tower.

8. Norwottuck Rail Trail

Belchertown is located at the eastern end of the 11-mile rail trail, which runs through Amherst and Hadley, and terminates in downtown Northampton, where it connects to local trails.

All of this lies on the rail line of the Massachusetts Central Railroad, first laid in the 1880s and later absorbed by the Boston and Maine Railroad.

Toward Belchertown, the eastern portions of the trail pass through remote landscapes and former reserves such as Lawrence Swamp and the Brickyard Conservation Area, with opportunities to cross trails along the particularly secluded banks of the Fort River.

A little further, the path runs to the prestigious Amherst College at the south end of campus.

9. Metacomet Lake

Adjacent to Arcadia Lake is a large 74-acre pond that is considered a fishing spot in Belchertown.

Beyond it, Lake Metacomet sits in a picturesque corner of town, surrounded by forests, and with a public boat ramp on the east shore just off Paul Road.

It's a good place to watch the sunset, and it's the only part of the lakefront that has shore fishing. The lake is stocked with trout every spring and fall, and in the winter people go ice fishing, with trout and stringers being regularly caught at this time of year.

10. Robert Frost Trail

On the western border of Belchertown, the Norwottuck Rail Trail meets another long-distance trail.

This is the Robert Frost Trail, which runs about 50 miles along the eastern edge of the Connecticut River Valley from Mount Holyoke Range State Park in the south to Wendell State Forest in the north.

The track is named after the famous poet who spent much of the 1920s and 1930s teaching at Amherst College.

You can hike for several miles without straying far from Belchertown, as the trail follows the western boundary after descending Metacomet Ridge, passing through the village of Dwight before entering Lawrence Swamp along Hop Brook.

There is convenient parking at the junction with the Norwottuck Rail Trail on Station Road in Amherst.

11. Phoenix Fruit Farm

The farm has been part of the community in Belchertown for over 60 years, and opens its doors to the public in the summer to pick their own fruit.

Phoenix Fruit Farm is over 100 acres and has stunning views of Cobben, less than a mile to the north.

One of the many things we recommend about this place is that it is 100% pesticide-free – while the fruit won't win any beauty contests, the trees are part of a rich ecosystem.

The season starts with strawberries around June, and then you get peaches, which are usually ready to pick in August. Then come the apples, starting in mid-September and continuing through October.

12. Jessica’s Boundless Playground

Built in 2014, this stunning facility is part of the expansive Chestnut Hill Recreation Area and was designed to be universally accessible.

This means that the play structure at Jessica's Boundless Playground has wide, shallow ramps, able to accommodate wheelchairs, rather than stairs.

The ground is a soft, rubbery surface, and in the absence of tree cover, the stadium has giant canopies that provide plenty of shade.

Outside the main body are a variety of stand-alone components, such as the “Turntable” and “Oddle Swing,” creating immersive, multi-sensory play experiences. Outdoor fitness stations set up near the playground allow caregivers to stay active while supervised.

13. Cold Spring Country Club

Despite the name, this highly rated 18-hole course is semi-private. Opened in 2012, Cold Spring Country Club has a Mary Armstrong vibe and is set in rolling hills with far-reaching views in every direction.

There are five sets of tees on each hole, and there is a noticeable difference between the narrow and technical east side, and the more open and forgiving west side.

One of the many memorable holes is the “Isolation” 15th, a par 3 with stunning panoramic views and a large, comfortable green pad with a slope back providing long approach shots.

14. Belchertown Fair

Every September, Belchertown celebrates its agricultural roots with a fair more than 160 years old.

Over three days, the Belchertown Fair features carnival rides, live music, children's entertainment, great food, and all kinds of classic fairs.

One signature event is the parade along Main Street on Saturday morning, featuring the award-winning Belchertown High School Marching Band, as well as a host of local organizations, services and clubs.

The exhibit hall also features an array of exhibits for everything from quilts to scarecrows, while a 4-H tent offers kids a chance to see farm animals up close.

In the bridle area, you can watch demonstrations of a variety of skills, from handling a K-9 unit to throwing hay bales and pulling horses.

15. Belchertown Farmers’ Market

There is a weekly farmers market every Sunday in the town common from mid-June to September. A typical week features more than 20 vendors, and everything you see is locally grown, locally produced, or made locally.

Think seasonal vegetables, poultry cuts, grass-fed beef, eggs, honey, maple syrup, cut flowers, baked goods, spice blends, handmade candy, popcorn, dog food, and more.

Craft vendors are also well represented at the market, selling jewelry, home decor, bath bombs, yarn, hand-carved wooden objects – the list goes on.

15 Best Things to Do in Amesbury (MA)

Where the Powwow River flows into the lower Merrimack, Amesbury is a delightful little town in northeastern Massachusetts.

Amesbury has had a strong shipbuilding reputation since its early days, and you can pick up that heritage at Lowell's Boat Shop, which still handcrafts wooden canoes and canoes.

During the industrial era, the community became a center for hat making and automobile production. Old brick factories of the time dotted the downtown area, and are now home to a variety of interesting stores and service businesses.

John Greenleaf Whittier (1807-1892), the famous poet and abolitionist, lived most of his life in Amesbury, and his home, now a museum, has barely changed since he lived here.

1. Amesbury Center

With its stunning tree-lined Main Street and preserved mill buildings surrounding the Powwow River, downtown Amesbury is worth as much time as you can give it.

The center is built on hilly terrain, with abundant local streets and businesses, many of which have been around for decades.

A small circle contains galleries, boutiques, antique shops, a craft brewery and a dizzying variety of restaurants, from wood-fired flatbread pizza to white-tablecloth Italian restaurants.

Along the powwow's millrace trail, your curiosity will lead you to the Millyard, where a box of old textile mills surrounds a beautiful outdoor space for summer live performances and outdoor movie screenings.

Amesbury has a bustling social calendar, including a big party in June to kick off the summer season and start Amesbury Day.

2. John Greenleaf Whittier House

In Amesbury, you can visit the home of John Greenleaf Whittier, where the poet and abolitionist wrote much of his poetry and prose, including his beloved poem Snowbound (1866).

Built in 1811 and purchased by Whittier in 1836, the John Greenleaf Whittier House served as a home for his mother, aunt, and sister Eliza, who remembers herself as a poet and vocalist.

Much of the building's original furniture, decorations, and structure remain as they were at the time of Whittier's death, thanks in part to the efforts of his great-nephew, who added a second story to the eastern half of the house. here? The beginning of the twentieth century.

The house is open to the public on Saturdays from May to October, and the Amesbury Hat Museum was recently added to the new second floor tour.

3. Lowell’s Boat Shop & Museum

This operating boat shop on the Merrimack River dates back to 1793, and continues to craft traditional boats and canoes using these methods by seven generations of the same family.

Lowell's Boat Shop holds a unique place in New England history as the birthplace of the fishing line, developed by founder Simon Lowell (1745-1830), and improved by his grandson Hiram Lowell (1814-1897).

In the 19th century, the complex housed an assembly line that is believed to have influenced Henry Ford's mass production methods.

For example, more than 2,000 boats were hand-built here in 1911 alone. You can glimpse more than two centuries of history in these buildings, play with the ship's venerable knees and support beams, and see traditional skills in action.

The store is open for guided tours, and hosts a variety of programs and events during the warmer months.

4. Bartlett Museum

The City Museum is housed in a charming old building that was originally Bartlett's School, opened in 1870 and converted into a museum in 1968 to celebrate Amesbury's tercentenary.

The attraction is open at noon, Friday through Sunday, Memorial Day weekend and through Labor Day weekend. The History Room includes Native American artifacts, a timeline of local history, and reproductions of Victorian parlors and colonial kitchens.

In other rooms you will discover cabinets displaying natural history specimens, details of Amesbury's military heritage and a preserved 19th-century schoolroom.

There is a carriage house on the grounds with original Amesbury-made farm implements, machinery, carts and wagons.

5. Cider Hill Farm

Started in 1978 and spanning three generations of the Cook family, Cider Hill Farm is a picture-perfect setting on a green hillside. Its 145 acres are grown using organic and non-GMO practices, with 90% of the electricity self-generated through wind turbines and solar panels.

You can go for a long picking season from April (tulips) to the holiday season (Christmas trees). The peak is summer and fall, with berries, wildflowers, peaches, apples and pumpkins, while hay is part of the experience.

The farm shop is filled with delicious, home-grown and grown foods, and has a beloved bakery for its cider cakes.

Children will love the farm and can use the play equipment, meet the goats, feed the chickens and participate in various activities.

6. Macy-Colby House

Thomas Massey (1608-1682), Amesbury's first clerk, built this historic house around 1649 before early European settlers on Nantucket.

In 1654, he sold it to Anthony Colby, a prominent public figure in Amesbury, and Moses Colby (1822–1901), the first of nine generations of the Colby family to live in the house, and donated the property to the Bartlett Cemetery Society in 1899. Work .

On Saturdays in summer, you can visit this wonderfully preserved early period residence, which was extensively altered in the mid-18th century.

Among many other interesting items, the house contains a Whittier Quaker hat, and a cradle that belonged to Amesbury resident Susannah North Martin, a victim of the Salem Witch Trials, who was executed in 1692.

7. Chain bridge

The oldest continuously occupied long-span bridge in the country is located at the south end of Main Street that crosses the Merrimack River into Newburyport.

There had been a long-span bridge since the construction of the wooden truss bridge in 1792. Soon afterward, in 1810, it was replaced by the first iron chain suspension bridge in New England.

The structure was demolished in 1827, and the reconstruction became a model for many other bridges in the area. The bridge was 225 feet long, was rebuilt in 1910 as a replica of its predecessor, and most recently underwent several renovations in 2003.

8. Lake Gardner

Spanning 80 acres on the Powwow River, located within walking distance of the Amesbury Center, it has been a valuable recreational asset since the 1800s.

There is a small beach on the south shore, with a shallow swimming area, and views extending along the length of the lake. On the east side there is a mixture of town-owned public parks and protected areas, accessed by a trail that starts along the beach.

The first farm, Bates Farm, has more than a half-mile of shoreline on Lake Gardner, with secluded coves for swimming or landing kayaks and canoes.

9. Amesbury Riverwalk Trail

This well-maintained paved trail, just over a mile long, begins in the center of the Lower Millyard and follows the Powwow River off Route 110 to Carriagetown Market.

The Amesbury River Walk passes through a quiet corner of the city, crossing just one street (Rocky Hill Road), on the right of way of the old Salisbury-Amesbury Branch of the Eastern Railway, built in 1848.

At several points you'll see the Powwow River through the trees, and there are several easy access points, including a parking lot at the east trailhead.

10. Brewery Silvaticus

It seems fitting that one of Amesbury's 19th-century industrial buildings should be a brewery. You'll find it at the foot of a tall octagonal chimney visible across Amesbury, with a beer garden leading down to the River Bow.

Less IPA-heavy than many of the area's craft breweries, Brewery Silvaticus specializes in traditional European beers like German lagers and Belgian farmhouse beers.

When we made this list, there were two Pilsners, a Kellerbier, three Lagers, a Belgian-style Tripel, and the brewery's signature Black Lager. Food trucks are often stationed outside, and there is a menu of small bites, such as pastries, hummus, cold cuts and cheddar cheese sticks.

11. Amesbury Industrial Supply Co.

Visiting a hardware store may not be high on your list of tourist activities, but there are some hardware stores in Amesbury Industrial Supply Co.

It is part of the Millyard, and is located in a former woolen mill dating from 1825, built as Mill 2 by the Salisbury Manufacturing Company.

As you browse the store, it's worth remembering that the hand-dug channel of the Powwow River ran beneath your feet in the basement, allowing for two 24-foot water wheels. You will gain strength.

It is reassuring to know that the store today is powered by solar panels on the roof. People Amesbury Industrial Supply Company Swear by was founded here in 1973 and is known for having an extensive inventory, stocking or ordering of any tool, supplier or component you may need.

12. R. E. Kimball & Company

A regular sight at farmers markets in northeastern Massachusetts, R.E. Kimball & Company makes any kind of jam, jelly or fruit preserve you can imagine.

Housed in a clapboard building across the street from an old 1877 mill, the company has been in business since 1955.

The range includes more than 100 products, from apricot jam to apple cinnamon jelly, all made using traditional recipes, methods and ingredients, including pure cane sugar. Factory and outlet stores are open during normal business hours from Monday to Friday.

13. Maudslay State Park

Take a short hop across the Merrimack River to Newburyport, and you'll be on the old turn-of-the-century estate of Frederick Strong Moseley (1852-1938).

He hired the famous landscape architect, Martha Brooks Hutchison (1871-1959), to design the magnificent grounds, which contain impressive remains of rhododendrons, azaleas, lilacs, and fruit trees, as well as grand walkways and stone bridges.

Come in early or mid-summer when the park is bursting with color. The 500-acre property has 16 miles of hiking, biking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing trails.

An exciting feature is one of the largest natural stands of mountain laurel trees in Massachusetts.

14. Amesbury Friends Meeting House

The thriving Amesbury congregation of the Society of Friends is the oldest congregation in the area, dating back to 1657. At that time, meetings were held in New Hampshire to avoid persecution by Puritans in the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

The current active Greek Revival building, located slightly west of downtown Amesbury, is the fourth meeting house, completed in 1851.

John Greenleaf Whittier, a practicing Quaker, was the driving force behind its construction. His seat was secured inside, and covered with boards.

This wood-frame building is larger than a traditional meeting house, reflecting its importance as a venue for regional quarterly meetings until 1962.

The main room has partitions that can be adjusted with pulleys, depending on the occasion, so services were attended by the entire congregation, whereas in past business meetings the sexes were separated.

15. Amesbury Days

Coinciding with the Fourth of July holiday, Amesbury Days includes more than a week of activities, events and celebrations beginning in late June.

This tradition can be traced back to 1899, when the city's mill workers were granted a vacation that they spent at Lake Gardner. Later Amesbury days included excursions to beaches from Hampton to Salisbury.

Now, there's a packed schedule of events, including live music performances at the Millyard, open houses, yard sales around town, a block party, a beer and music picnic, a kids' night out at Heritage Park, a 5K run and a 4th race. July, Pride celebration ends with fireworks and music at Woodsom Coe Ranch.

15 Best Things to Do in Abington (MA)

Located on the southern coast, this city has a special connection to the Civil War. For nearly 20 years, Abington has been the site of an annual abolitionist meeting in what is now Island Grove Park, a charming public space with a pond.

Mass production of wrought iron began in Abington in the 1810s and laid the foundation for the shoe and boot industry.

About half of the boots made for the Union Army in the Civil War came from factories here in Abington.

This aspect of Abington's heritage can be appreciated at the Civil War Camp in Island Grove Park during the city's Founding Day celebrations.

For half a century since 1941, a massive naval airfield has occupied much of Abington, and you can find much of the site on the preserved lands of Thompson's Pond.

1. Ames Nowell State Park

This 700-acre state park is located in a residential neighborhood, away from major arteries, and is easy to miss if you're just passing through.

Ames Nowell State Park is a delight, with ten miles of paved and unpaved trails bordering man-made pond forests (pine, oak, and beech) dating back to the 18th century.

In the 1920s, it was maintained as a bird sanctuary and hunting ground before a member of the wealthy Ames family bought and donated it.

Along the trails, you'll encounter wetlands crisscrossed by lakeside boardwalks and boardwalks, with interesting historical relics in the ancient stone walls that jut out through the forest.

The Cleveland Pond area is a great place for fishing and is known for its largemouth bass, pickerel, black crappie and bluegill.

2. Island Grove Park

Abington's finest public gardens cover more than 50 acres and were donated to the city in 1882. From 1846 to 1865, they were the site of an annual meeting of abolitionists led by William Lloyd Garrison (1805-1879).

The location of the "First of August" assemblies is now marked by a bronze plaque in a large stone. Island Grove Pond was first closed to industry in the late 18th century and has been an amusement park anchor since the mid-19th century.

There is a sandy swimming area, open to residents and non-residents from late June to late August, while the park's evergreen forests are ideal for leisurely strolls. A bridge across the pond leads to the city's Civil War Memorial, which consists of the Arc de Triomphe.

3. Founders’ Day

The Abington Festival Committee is responsible for a handful of annual events in town, most notably the action-packed weekend in early June to kick off the summer season.

In celebration of Abington's 310th birthday, Founder's Day includes a cookout, city cake cutting, a 5K road race, a fishing derby, and a spectacular fireworks display, sponsored by a number of local businesses.

A highlight is the traditional Civil War camp at Island Grove Park, which features demonstrations of historical skills including ancient folk music, cooking and medicine.

4. Dyer Memorial Library

The wealthy Dyer family had been an integral part of Abington life since the early 1700s, long before the town was founded. In the 1890s, Marietta White Dyer (1853-1918) inherited the property from her uncle, the banker Samuel Brown Dyer (1809-1894).

When he died, he left a bequest to a fund to build and maintain a historical and biographical library. Housed in a Georgian building, completed in 1932. Dyer Memorial Library remains privately funded.

It serves as an exceptional resource for the history of Abington, Rockland, and Whitman, with curated exhibits and genealogical records dating back to the Mayflower. Visits are welcome during business hours, and you are free to take a self-guided tour.

5. Fuller Craft Museum

The only museum in New England dedicated exclusively to crafts is located a 10-minute drive west in Brockton. Founded in 1946, the Fuller Craft Museum deals with contemporary decorative arts, from ceramics to jewelry, woodwork, textiles, furniture, mosaics and glass.

There are also 22 acres of beautiful grounds at Upper Porter Pond, and just outside you'll find gorgeous stone and wood carvings.

The galleries feature up to five simultaneous exhibitions at once, and the gift shop should be stocked with works by local and regional artists. Look for regular art-making activities, talks, performances, film screenings and open studios.

6. Hanover Branch Trail (Abington Rail Trail)

Opened in 1868, the 7.8-mile Hanover Branch Railroad connects the main line of the Old Colony Railroad in Abington with the town of Hanover.

It later became part of the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad, and since the 2000s the right-of-way has been gradually converted into rail track.

While we're putting this article together, you can visit the Hanover Branch Trail at the corner of Birch and Monroe Streets, and walk or ride the 2.6 miles to West Hanover. In 2022, funding was awarded to extend the route eastwards towards Hanover.

The trail passes through mostly quiet residential areas, is ten feet wide, and users have right-of-way at road crossings. At the intersection with Union Street in Rockland, you can see a section of the original rails, combined with an interpretive kiosk.

7. J.P. Ryan’s Tavern

With live music, satisfying pub food, and plenty of beers on tap, quaint neighborhood hotels like these are staples of South Shore communities.

If there's one item on the menu you have to try, it's the bar pizza that is South Beach's culinary signature.

Does it come in 10? Personal fryer, with a crispy crust and a wide range of toppings and specialty options. There is live music most weekends, and you can find out who's playing on the website.

8. 10th District Brewing Company

10th District Brewing Co. was founded. Created by two childhood friends who grew up here in Upington, and opened in 2014, it is now available in many pubs and restaurants from the Hill to Holbrook.

You can visit Abington's Source, which has a dining room with a large outdoor area for dogs.

Among the beers available at the time of writing were a selection of IPAs, Gose, Kolsch, peanut stout and some less traditional creations such as jalapeño ale and lemon sour.

You can buy cans or fill growlers here, while flights are available if you want to sample four beers in manageable quantities.

9. Naval Air Station Weymouth (Control Tower)

From 1941 to 1997, a US Navy airfield occupied Abington, Weymouth and much of Rockland. Naval Air Station Weymouth was an airship base during World War II, then became part of the Naval Air Reserve Training Command.

Land has been gradually handed over to the respective towns since the mid-1990s, partly for redevelopment projects such as Union Point.

Other areas have been left open, and you can visit the Woodlands Trust Preserve to appreciate the incredible size of the airport, where runways once reached 7,000 feet.

We'll talk about the Thompson Trail below, but a little north of there, off Adams Street, you can go to the old observation tower, which is still intact although it's showing its age now, and there are also some dilapidated hangars.

10. Thompson Pond Trail

The former site of South Weymouth Naval Air Station is huge, traversable along this track system.

The Thompson Pond Trail is managed by the Wildlands Trust and is accessible from Spruce St. On the Abington-Rock land line.

Round trip, the Thompson Pond Trail is just over two miles long, crosses the perennial French River, and takes you to the beautiful north shore of the pond where you'll find a section of boardwalks and benches.

At the trailhead, you can head into Rockland along the Twin Ponds Trail, while south of Spruce St. At over 40 acres, the Rockland Town Forest is waiting to be explored.

11. Oktoberfest

Since mid-2010, Abington has held a family celebration on the second weekend in October.

Oktoberfest combines German and Halloween-themed events and activities, including light entertainment such as a dog costume contest, pumpkin pie, open house at Dyer Memorial Library, and a children's costume show.

There's a market on Saturday, featuring vendors, crafts and music, as well as a family celebration on Sunday, with plenty of activities for kids, a beer garden for adults, and a performance by German band Double Eagle Oktoberfest.

12. Barrett's Haunted Mansion

One of the most haunted houses in the area, Abington is now in its fourth decade.

Barrett's Haunted Mansion has two attractions in one, with a haunted trail through the main house, and Condemned (at the time of writing), where you enter an old alchemy laboratory, locked and filled with mutants.

There are many special events throughout the season in September and October, including Saturday soft visits, where you can enjoy the artistry and love that goes into the decorations, props, costumes and makeup.

13. Abington Summer Concerts

Summer in Abington wouldn't be the same without this annual series of concerts in July and August.

The stage is the Catherine and Joseph Nisby Stand next to Upington Town Hall, where the spacious arena accommodates surprisingly large crowds for these shows.

Concerts take place on Sunday evenings, featuring artists from a variety of musical genres, whether you're in the mood for soul, classic rock, country, doo-wop, jazz, or '80s pop songs.

During the season there is a special night for children, which includes balloon art, educational displays of exotic animals and face painting.

14. High voltage paintball

High Voltage Paintball is located in over 20 wooded acres near Holbrook, and welcomes visits on Saturdays and Sundays.

From deep cover wood ball courts to open fastball courts, there is plenty of terrain available.

It's also designed for all types of game modes, whether you're attacking or defending a hilltop or strategic bunker, bombing a base, or capturing the flag.

All the equipment you need to get started is here, and the attentive staff ensures the game stays safe.

15. Strawberry Valley Golf Course

For a no-nonsense round of golf, Abington has a municipal course in mostly open parkland on the south side of town.

Strawberry Valley Golf Course is a 9-hole course that plays relatively short, so it's ideal if you're just starting out, or want to work on your iron game and short game.

The course is well maintained, has a good pace of play, and represents amazing value for money. In winter, the course's rolling layout becomes an ideal ski area for local children.

15 Best Things to Do in Greenfield (MA)

Located in the northern Pioneer Valley, Greenfield is a beautiful old mill town, historically known for making tools and cutlery.

There are museums here and at nearby Turners Falls, detailing industry in Franklin County and the specific role of the Connecticut River.

Greenfield's landscape is framed by a series of abrupt hills between the downtown area and the riverbank.

Known as Rocky Mountain, this mountain is part of the Pocomtuck Range, the northernmost branch of the Metacomet Ridge, which continues along the Connecticut River to Long Island Sound.

Downtown Greenfield is a fun place, with many local businesses, a farmers market that's been around since the 1970s, and a sense of community spirit that shines through public events like the Franklin County Fair in September.

1. Poet's Seat Tower

The first thing to do in Greenfield is to climb to the top on foot or by car and climb this legendary tower in Rocky Mountain Park. The Poet's Seat Tower was erected in 1912, replacing a wooden tower dating from the 1870s.

This Romanesque Renaissance structure is named after the Romantic poet Frederick Goddard Tuckerman (1821-1873), who lived in Greenfield and came to the site for inspiration.

The panoramic view is stunning, including Greenfield, the village of Turners Falls across the river, and the sweep of the Connecticut River Valley. If you are in the city in the fall, the view overlooking the sea from the foliage will remain in the memory for a long time.

2. Downtown Greenfield

Filled with cafés, public art, world-class restaurants, arts and culture venues, interesting retail stores and diverse service businesses, it's fair to say that Greenfield is a model of a healthy city.

At a recent count, more than three-quarters of all businesses here are independent, and the city is constantly looking for ways to improve Main Street.

That includes finding a new owner or tenant for the now-vacant Wilson Department Store, which operated from 1882 to 2020.

As we'll see, there's a very successful farmers' market in Court Square, and there are almost endless live performances at Energy Park in the summer.

In addition to being full of life, this stretch of Main Street is a historic district, preserving commercial, public, and residential architecture that ranges from Federal to Colonial Revival.

3. Rocky Mountain Park

The city began purchasing land on the hills in the early 1900s to turn it into a public park.

Rocky Mountain Park is now approximately 120 acres in size and consists of five contiguous parcels, with a trail system leading into neighboring areas such as Highland Park to the south, and including the regional Pocumtuck Trail.

The latter begins at Poet's Seat Tower and runs 20 miles south along the edge of the Pocumtuck Range to Sugarloaf Mountain in Deerfield.

So, while the Poet's Seat Tower is the park's main attraction, it can also be the starting point for a scenic hike, surprising you with stunning views from the rim.

4. Highland Park

Across Mountain Road from the south side of Rocky Mountain Park is a steep, rocky site, acquired by the city in 1890.

There is also great hiking here, and to the south is the high Sachem Head, with a ledge and large overhang.

The park has three main trails, ideal if you need a technical climb or an exhilarating hike, with cross-country skiing available on the flatter sections in winter.

The Greenfield Tree Committee has created a one-mile interactive walking tour among the park's trees, most of which cling to the southwest corner of the park.

5. Museum of Our Industrial Heritage

The site on the Green River was the scene of continuous industry from the late 17th century into the 20th century.

As in most parts of the Green River Valley, the dominant trade was metals, and from 1906 to 1920, the Nichols Brothers Cutlery Company began mass production of cutlery here.

The old mill complex is now a museum that delves into the industry in Franklin County and the broader Connecticut Valley.

From room to room you'll find fascinating details about small industry in the 18th century, the importance of water power in small mountain towns, the story of mass production of tableware, and precision manufacturing in the 21st century.

If you come at the right time, you can watch machine demonstrations in the workshop room.

6. Great Falls Discovery Center

Across the river in Montague is a museum connected by the Canalside Rail Trail that tells you everything you need to know about the fascinating natural, cultural, and industrial history of the Connecticut River watershed.

The location is convenient in the restored paper mill complex in historic Turners Falls. The main building houses a fascinating walk-through diorama, showcasing the flora, fauna and habitats along the river's 410-mile path.

Below is a thought-provoking timeline, outlining the impact humans have had on the river, and exploring ways to reduce that impact in the future.

Adjacent to the main building is the Great Hall, a beautiful old machine shop, which now hosts events and holds temporary art exhibitions. The two historic buildings are connected by a corridor that clearly overlooks the old canal that ran the mill.

7. Downtown Bee Sculptures

L.L. Langstroth (1810-1895), known as the "Father of American Beekeeping," lived in Greenfield for several years in the mid-19th century. Around this time he invented the Langstroth cell, a design still in common use today.

In 2010, to honor Langstroth's work and recognize the global importance of bees, Second Congregational Church of Greenfield launched an annual celebration, BeeFest.

Langstroth once served as a pastor at the church, and the event was inaugurated on his 200th birthday. In recent years, a collection of beautiful bee sculptures have descended around Greenfield to pay tribute to the May Festival and Langstroth's contribution.

They are the work of local sculptor Rachel Katz, and each has a vibrant design by area artists.

8. Greenfield Farmers Market

Starting in 1975, Greenfield has one of its best farmers markets, occupying Court Square on Saturday mornings, from May to October.

The event has an undeniable sense of community supported by local musicians, with live performances scheduled throughout the season.

Every Saturday there are at least 30 vendors on the plaza, selling fresh produce as the season comes, as well as plants, cut flowers, grass-fed meats, eggs, cheese, honey, maple syrup, fresh breads, pastries and more. More than we can list here.

In winter, a market is held on the third Saturday of the month in the courtyard of the Second Congregational Church.

9. Greenfield Garden Cinema

Another point of pride in downtown Greenfield is that local movie theaters from 1928 are still in operation.

Built in the Colonial Revival style, the Garden Theater was designed for both silent films and vaudeville, before switching exclusively to movies a few years later.

In the 1980s, the single hall was divided into seven screens, destroying the previously rich interior decoration.

Likewise, the city's cinemas are a must-see, and in addition to Hollywood premieres, there are seasonal specials for popular films like The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

10. Leavitt-Hovey House (Greenfield Public Library)

One of the most important historic buildings in downtown Greenfield is the Federal-style mansion built in 1797 for attorney, judge, and senator Jonathan Levitt (1764-1830).

The house is an early design by Asher Benjamin (1773-1845), who lived in Greenfield at the time and had a lasting influence on New England city maps until the Civil War.

An interesting feature is a pair of front wings connected by small galleries. The Greenfield Company acquired the house and opened it as a public library in 1909, a role it still plays today.

11. Energy Park

Adjacent to the tracks, this little oasis is located in the heart of Greenfield on the former site of the Greenfield train station and the adjacent Boston and Maine Railroad yard.

In the 1990s, the city entered into an agreement with the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA) to redevelop the property as a public space, railroad history and sustainable energy theme.

You'll find a safe caboose, railway-themed play equipment, and outdoor exhibits about renewable resources.

The bandstand serves as an anchor for outdoor gatherings and concerts, with up to 40 events held here during the summer. These include the Summer Concert Series on Thursday evenings and the Greenfield Players' Shakespeare season in the park.

12. Eunice Williams Covered Bridge

Crossing the Green River in the backcountry of West Greenfield is a beautiful covered bridge. If the structure looks new, that's because it was built in 1972 as a replica of a 19th-century bridge recently destroyed by fire.

As the signs tell you, there has been a crossing for some time, and the place is named after Eunice Williams who was killed here in 1704 during Queen Anne's War.

She was one of more than 100 hostages taken by the French army and the Abenaki and Mohawk tribes from nearby Deerfield when they began their massive march to Canada.

Williams had given birth the day before and, in any traceable case, fell by tomahawk in the same spot in the first leg.

13. Canalside Rail Trail

Across the river from Greenfield, about four miles from the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad, a multi-use rail trail was built.

It takes you from the confluence of the Deerfield and Connecticut Rivers in East Deerfield, to Unity Park in Turners Falls, passing the Great Falls Discovery Center along the way.

Opened in 2008, the track is mostly free of traffic except for a short section of city streets.

Historic railroad infrastructure, such as the old Turners Falls Branch Bridge between Deerfield and Montague, is incorporated into the route.

This metal bridge dates back to 1880, was restored after the 1936 flood, and was modified into a railway track in 2006.

14. Whitney Hill Antiques

If you love searching for vintage items and collectibles, you'll need plenty of time to do justice to this wonderful antiques center in the heart of Greenfield.

Whitney Hill Antiques, which recently added a new location in Deerfield, spans three floors, features 60 vendors and 16,000 square feet of retail space.

You can disappear for an hour or two, browsing furniture, pottery, vintage clothing, lighting, kitchenware, toys, clocks, mirrors, dollhouses, tools, board games, sports memorabilia, seasonal decor, and more.

Despite the vast amount of treasures, the store remains clean, with clear aisles and a constantly changing inventory.

15. Franklin County Fair

Held in September and dating back to 1848, the Franklin County Fair is located on Greenfield's doorstep and features four days of livestock shows, contests, midway rides, craft vendors, delicious good food, the Stoney Roberts Demolition Derby, and other major live entertainment events. .

Opening Thursday is a kickoff parade, departing from Greenfield Middle School and making its way through downtown to the fairgrounds.

A highlight of the event is the Roundhouse, which has stood here since 1899 and serves as a showcase for the craft show each year.

15 Best Things to Do in Rockland (MA)

The ancient city of Rockland on the southern coast was not ideal for farming due to its rocky terrain.

Instead, industry flourished here in the 19th century, with shoemaking and the timber trade. A few former factories have been converted into residential developments and artists' buildings.

Since the end of World War II, Rockland has become a convenient southern suburb of Boston, with a small but robust commercial district along Union Street, close to family attractions, shopping, sporting facilities, and culture.

Rockland has some protected city-owned property to enjoy the outdoors, the rail trail running through the center, and the secluded pond at Ames Noel State Park, just moments away.

1. Rockland Center

The city's main artery is Union Street from north to south, surrounded by grand public buildings, turn-of-the-century business parks, and some fine residences.

Some of the most impressive buildings are the Holy Family Church (1896), the First Collegiate Church (1894), the Rockland Public Library, and the Carnegie Fine Arts Library from 1904.

To the south, where Union Street intersects the Hanover Branch Railroad track, there are carefully preserved 200-year-old homes, as well as a row of shops, including Rockland Cycle (215 Union St), that serve the track.

A striking residence here is the Deacon Read House (ca. 1818), built in the Queen Anne style with pre-Federal details.

2. Rockland Day

The largest community event of the year wraps up over two days in downtown Rockland in mid-June.

Live music is the focus of the Rockland Day celebration, with a stage set at Rogers Middle School on Friday.

The event then moves to Veteran Memorial Stadium on Saturday with more live performances, great food, a beer garden, arts and crafts and all kinds of activities to keep the crowd entertained.

In the evening, the festival concludes with a traditional fireworks display.

3. Rockland Fall Festival

Rockland comes together for another big event later in the year, when the Rockland Fall Festival transforms Union Street for a day in early October.

With an array of live music, over 100 vendors, a petting zoo, pony rides, food vendors, demonstrations from local clubs and organizations, and a candy drop, there's a lot going on.

Adults will delight in the beer garden with over 90 cellars, while one of the best activities for the little ones is “Touch a Truck,” which showcases the city's fleet of service vehicles.

4. Rockland Farmers Market

Every two weeks during the weekend, Rockland holds a farmers' market that gets bigger every year. The location is Hartsuff Park, a mile or so northwest of downtown Rockland, where you'll find about 50 vendors a week on average.

And of course, there's a wealth of fresh produce from the South Shore and southeastern Massachusetts, plus freshly roasted coffee, craft beer, local wines, sauces, honey, baked goods, cocktails, and organic pet treats.

More than half of the vendors are local artists and makers, selling anything from fine wood carvings to ceramics. The Rockland Farmers Market in early October coincides with the annual Fall Festival.

5. Hanover Branch Rail Trail (Rockland Rail Trail)

The Hanover Branch Railroad opened in 1868, connecting Abington's Old Colony Railroad with Hanover Four Corners, 7.8 miles away, and becoming part of the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad later that century.

Industrial E. Perry was the driving force behind the line, as the trains served boot and shoe factories, but also carried passengers.

Since the 2000s, three miles of right-of-way between the Hanover/Rockland city line and North Abington has become a shared-use paved path.

The trail is ten feet wide and has well-defined footpaths where it meets roads. In 2022, funding was awarded to expand drinking water throughout West Hanover.

6. George Anderson Rockland Town Forest

Named after a dedicated local environmentalist who has maintained, maintained and improved the property for decades, Rockland Town Forest includes more than 40 acres of forest along French Stream.

Adjacent to suburban residential neighbourhoods, the plot features peaceful beech, pine, oak and cedar trees, which are explored through a range of trails.

It has sections of bridges and wooden walkways, and parts decorated with small ornaments, rock monuments, and elevation letters. For a longer hike, you can head north off Spruce Street and pick up the Twin Ponds Trail, which we'll talk about later.

7. Mango ice cream and sandwiches

This ice cream shop, a small, family-owned business, opened in Rockland in 2007 and features an 18-hole mini-golf course and plenty of outdoor seating.

Magoo's offers 40 different flavors of hard ice cream, sourced from the award-winning Richardson Farm in Middleton, Massachusetts. You can choose from more than 50 soft drinks, as well as specialty ice creams, frappes and raffles.

Meanwhile, the menu features comforting fast food dishes, from chicken fingers to cheeseburgers. The mini golf course features rocks and water features, is well maintained and newly lit for long hours on summer evenings.

8. Rockland Ice Rink

Rockland has a popular public rink, which is open year-round and hosts games for several competitive leagues, including the Eastern Hockey Association, Bay State Hockey League, and the South Shore Conference.

If you just want to get out on the ice, there are many public skating sessions and stick and puck sessions (helmets required) with additional periods during school breaks.

The Winterland Ski School here offers five ski classes per week, suitable for all ages from three years old to adults.

If you want to learn some hockey basics, there is Hockey Jump Start, skating skills such as forehand and backhand crossovers, as well as puck handling and in-game positioning.

9. Rockland Golf Course

You can play golf on 36 holes at this unique Rockland property, set in a majestic pine and oak forest with rock outcroppings, streams and ponds.

The Challenge Course here is the longest par 3 west of the Mississippi River. This test track had four sets of tees, with a course record of four below par. So when the par is 3, you will need every club in the bag.

The Players Course is a bit more suitable for less skilled players, and consists of 12 par 3s and 6 short par 4s.

Afterward, you can continue your tour at the Sports Bar & Grill, which serves sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, quesadillas, wraps, nachos and other comfort foods.

10. Twin Ponds Trail

From 1941 until the end of the Cold War there was a Naval Air Station on the line between Rockland and Abington.

You can enter this landscape from Spruce St just north of the Rockland Town Forest, and after a few steps you'll be in a huge field where the amphitheater once was.

Little traces of the facility remain today, and the main blue trail passes two ponds of the same name, as well as historic stone walls dating back to the time of its cultivation, and several rock outcroppings.

For a longer visit, walk the main loop and then head west to Abington along the blazed Thompson Pond Trail.

11. Company Theatre

For some live entertainment minutes away in Norwell, there's a beautiful non-profit theater that presents five large-scale shows a year in a permanent location.

Founded in 1979, Company Theatre has won numerous awards, including Moss Hart and IRNE Awards.

A typical season brings an audience of over 20,000 people, with first-rate performances, choreography, music, set design, lighting, costumes and staging.

Keep an eye on the schedule because in addition to these shows, there are also an annual celebrity series, concerts and four annual youth productions.

12. Ames Nowell State Park

You can access DCR's 700-acre property within minutes from Rockland with plenty of natural spaces to explore around Rockland.

Much of Ames Nowell State Park is taken up by the magnificent Cleveland Pond, which was built in the 1920s when owner Edwin Holmes dammed Beaver Brook to create a bird sanctuary and hunting ground.

There is a rich history in the woods surrounding the pond, where a maze of stone walls, two wagon bridges and a pair of quarries indicate 400 years of settlement.

People come to the pond to pick up string and fish for largemouth bass, and there are more than ten miles of paved and unpaved trails that lead west and south into the forest.

13. Starland Sportsplex & Fun Park

Near the city of Hanover there is a family entertainment center with a sports theme, which has been open since 1968.

In 2013, Starland underwent a major expansion to build a more than 100,000-square-foot sports facility, with eight wood courts, two grass courts and additional amenities such as a full-service bar, restaurant and café.

The Sportsplex is home to basketball, volleyball, soccer and pickleball leagues, while elsewhere there are plenty of classic family attractions.

You've got mini-golf, laser tag, bumper cars, an arcade, go-karts, and batting cages, plus a rock wall, a dark XD ride and several carnival rides.

14. Derby Street Shops.

Slightly north of Rockland is Hingham, an upscale shopping center. Located just off Route 3, Derby Street Shops features about 70 shops and restaurants designed in the style of a cozy New England town, with wooden storefronts and tree-lined sidewalks.

To give you an idea of the shopping scene here, you'll find Barnes & Noble, Francesca's, Whole Foods, Banana Republic, Lululemon, Gap, Allbirds, Anthropologie, J. Crew, and the Apple Store.

Derby Street Jobs' restaurants are on the casual side of things, including Chipotle, Legal C Bar and CAVA.

15. Barrett's Haunted Mansion

You never have to travel far along the South Shore to see some first-rate Halloween scares, and that's what Rockland, the best in nearby Abington, is all about.

Barrett's Haunted Mansion has been in operation for more than 30 years, and is known for its clever theme, intricately designed scenery, and enthusiastic performers.

When we put this list together, the story is about a chemical leak that turns into a pesticide factory.

There are a selection of experiences, including Devil's Night, which allows physical contact for added scares, and Lights On Tour, which takes you behind the scenes to check out set design, make-up and costumes in the cold. daylight