This family-owned business is Boston’s first olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting bar. Now’s the chance to sample wild mushroom and sage-infused olive... Read More
Blueberry basil, lemongrass, blue cheese, elderflower grapefruit: with drink flavors like these, it’s easy to grasp what 28 Degrees is all about ... Read More
Although tiny, A Matter of Face is the place to go for cosmetics and skincare in Boston’s North End. The boutique is filled with products for both... Read More
Mirroring its eclectic North End location, this quirky boutique is owned by interior design guru and former National Geographic TV producer Nikki... Read More
Nantucket is angler heaven: striped bass, bluefish, cod, fluke, tuna, and even blue sharks all make their home in the cold, deep waters around the... Read More
Every May, Lilac Sunday is a Boston tradition celebrating the five-week flowering of the botanical garden’s premier collection, but my favorite time to... Read More
Get off-road and explore the lunar landscape of the dunes beyond Provincetown. Art’s Dune Tours takes travelers out in old four-wheel-drive Suburbans.... Read More
With three distinct performance spaces (including a stunning 1930s movie palace), ArtsEmerson presents a veritable hive of cultural offerings, including... Read More
Lying between the Chatham mainland and Tern Island, Aunt Lydia’s Cove and its sandbars and island beaches can be viewed from Shore Road and the... Read More
The bright-yellow vessel operated by Beachcomber Boat Tours offers seal-watching tours or drop-offs of passengers at North Beach (and pickups later). Read More
Every February during the bitter Boston chill, things get heated at this four-team tournament—a beloved city tradition since 1952—that pins men’s hockey... Read More
An ultra-green picking experience can be had at this intimate orchard in western Massachusetts that has offered PYO only since 2008. Orchardists Jen... Read More
Walk the mile-long Beech Forest Trail, which winds through fragile sand dunes. Read More
This 37-member consortium of Berkshire-area dealers from Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York is a go-to source for fine American furniture, Delft... Read More
With its relatively flat terrain and its network of paved bike trails, the Cape is perfect for family cycling outings. The seven-mile path along the... Read More
Brace Yourself: There are three versions of the Bizarro coaster in the U.S.: one at Darien Lake in New York State, one at Six Flags American in Maryland... Read More
Crammed with “unexpected necessities,” the flagship Black Ink store has unique and quirky gifts for any age. While the Beacon Hill... Read More
The floor-to-ceiling shelves at this itty-bitty, offbeat gift shop are stocked with novelties and knick-knacks you never knew you needed. You’ll enjoy a... Read More
These cruises take adventurers from Orleans to Chatham Harbor to see seals in their natural habitat. On one of the beachcombing expeditions, you can... Read More
Along an alley in South End sits Bobby From Boston, a vintage store owned by Bobby Garnett, who hand-selects men's and women's clothing from as early as... Read More
Step back in time when browsing this archive for quality, vintage men’s attire. Mixed among timeless antiques you’ll find a rather dapper selection of... Read More
Bonatt’s Bakery & Restaurant, in Harwichport, is nothing to look at—but its sugarcoated Meltaway rolls are dreamy. Read More
With three levels of hands-on exhibits, the Boston Children's Museum offers a day of fun and education for little ones. Aiming to help children... Read More
Ask any local or repeat tourist, and they’re likely to have experienced the quintessential Boston duck boat ride—on more than one occasion. Wind around... Read More
Founded in 1926, this cruise company has grown from a single boat to a fleet of 32 vessels, including ferries, catamarans, and speedboats. Take an easy... Read More
Spread across the Boston Harbor like an elaborate diadem, the Boston Harbor Islands offer up the oldest lighthouse in the United States, a venerable... Read More
The first recognized public botanical garden in America evokes a sense of Victorian style in the 21st century. The park is best known for its flowerbeds... Read More
When it opened in 1895, the main branch of the Boston Public Library was heralded as a veritable cornucopia of decorative and visual arts. Today you can... Read More
This central branch at Copley Square is home to the magnificent Bates Hall reading room, the most architecturally revered and historically significant... Read More
Opened in 2015, this year-round public market finds chocolatiers, coffee roasters, and sellers of heirloom vegetables in close proximity from Wednesday... Read More
I went here to see “Ovid’s Girls,” an exhibit of work by 12 never-before-shown female artists—six from Boston and six from Berlin, Germany—whose... Read More
The cast and crew at this blast-from-the-past experience do a phenomenal job bringing the revolutionary events of 1773 to life. During the museum’s... Read More
When the weather is warm, Brattle Book Shop—one of America’s oldest bookstores—fills the adjacent lot with $1, $3 and $5 used and out-of-print finds. I... Read More
Originally a stage theater, the city’s self-proclaimed “Unofficial Film School Since 1953” is now praised for bringing foreign and art-house films to... Read More
This open-air stand on the side of the highway is your stop for beach plum jelly, rosehip jam, and cranberry marmalade. Read More
This mysterious Cambridge hideaway is one of those places you have to have already visited to find, but I’ll give you a hint: Located to the left of the... Read More
Three times a year, the 18th-century town of Brimfield is overwhelmed by a series of antiques shows set up in humongous open fields for a six-day... Read More
In keeping with its reputation for nurturing emerging artists, this contemporary art space holds an annual SOLO competition for New England artists who... Read More
Step through the door at this Coolidge Corner staple and be greeted by a half-dozen tables stacked with marked-down bestsellers. I always make a beeline... Read More
Four centuries of American life gather under one roof in a retired buggy whip factory in Southfield, which now rounds up some 35 antique sellers. Finds... Read More
If you’re not yet known as the hops and barley buff of Back Bay, just have a read through this dive bar’s extensive Beer Book. Get the rundown on... Read More
What was once a wooden pillar just shy of 20 feet is now a 221-foot granite obelisk and a prime observation point. From the top of this historic site... Read More
This bookshop is one of the few in the nation committed to literature for the LGBTQ community. The late-owner John Mitzel was a legendary personality... Read More
Calico is a women’s clothing store located in the waterfront district of New Bedford, an hour south of Boston. More boutique than consignment... Read More
Found on the top level of the Cambridge Center parking garage in Kendall Square is this hush-hush community sanctuary, perfect for private afternoon... Read More
This sweet shop serves fudge in every flavor, from plain vanilla to Marshmallow Fluff to Reese’s. Read More
Home to the region’s largest selection of braided rugs, this Harwich company has a history dating back to 1910, when factory worker Romeo... Read More
In a small outbuilding with an honesty box, the farm shop sells a heavenly lavender-lemon marmalade. Read More
At this museum dedicated to the pristine ecology of the Cape, naturalists and a resident beekeeper host demonstrations for guests. You can also explore... Read More
We have John F. Kennedy to thank for his move to protect the Cape Cod National Seashore, which stretches 40 miles from Chatham to Provincetown. Besides... Read More
The protected Cape Cod National Seashore stretches 40 miles, from Chatham all the way north to Provincetown. It was set aside in 1961 by John F. Kennedy... Read More
For a more active adventure, catch the eight-mile Cape Cod Province Lands Bike Trail at Race Point. It passes through sand dunes and forests and ends at... Read More
Built on an old railway bed, the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail is perfect for a daylong biking adventure: it has paved trails through the flat terrain, as... Read More
The emphasis here, also home to the Cape Cod Center for the Arts, is on Broadway musicals. Bette Davis famously began her career here, as an usher. Read More
Drivers of four-wheel-drive vehicles can get an over-sand vehicle pass to Chappaquiddick’s refuge for a cookout. Or, set aside at least two hours... Read More
Out in the Boston suburb of historic Arlington, this neighborhood theater with old-fashioned charm has been entertaining the area since 1925. The... Read More
Now a local institution, this family-owned fishmonger shop was originally founded by Master Mariner Captain Roy Wilfred Marden in 1945. Today, the... Read More
The only Le Corbusier-built structure in the United States, the Carpenter Center stands in stark contrast to its more staid neighbors on Harvard Yard... Read More
Since 2007, boutique co-owners Allison Levangie and Lesley Carvalho have been playing matchmaker - setting up women with the perfect oh-so-chic top at... Read More
Captain Marcus Sherman, a native Cape Codder, has been taking passengers sailing in Hyannis Harbor since 1989. Besides getting to hang out with the... Read More
Tuckernuck is where islanders go to get away from the crowds in summer months. This tiny island to the west of Nantucket boasts secluded beaches and... Read More
Chatham Pottery sells heavy ceramic pieces emblazoned with mermaids, shells, and other maritime motifs. Read More
If you’re in the mood for a pint and live music, head to this gritty nightspot, decorated with license plates from around the world. Local bands... Read More
On the southern fringe of Boston's Back Bay resides one of the city’s most beautiful open spaces. A tranquil, 700-foot-long reflecting pool... Read More
Easily recognizable by its lavender-colored façade, Christina’s is a popular spot for homemade ice cream. Located in Inman Square between... Read More
This cluster of buildings on the way to Cisco Beach is home base to Nantucket’s local spirits producers. Cisco Brewers (which was the U.S.’s... Read More
This bar is has something going on every night of the week—whether it’s trivia, karaoke, or the ever-popular Monday night Drag Bingo. Spend Saturday... Read More
Located in Harvard Square, this 125-seat performance venue has been hosting some of the best live folk and acoustic musicians since 1958. Back in the... Read More
Eastham’s Coast Guard Beach is a must-visit for its large waves (great for boogie-boarding and surfing) and a boardwalk that runs right to the beach.... Read More
An Art Deco movie palace since 1933, this beloved Brookline landmark boasts enough epic programming to keep any cinephile smiling from ear to ear. Grab... Read More
Four-wheeling out on Nantucket’s remote, northeastern sand spits (which together form the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge) lets you experience the... Read More
Try the bakery's buttery, cinnamony, muffin-shaped Dirt Bomb donuts. (Faithful followers have sleuthed out the recipe and make them back at home.) Read More
Craigville Beach, the place to see and be seen in Hyannis, is sometimes called Muscle Beach for its concentration of buff beachgoers. Read More
A 5.5-mile span of pristine, dune-backed stretches of white sand. To get there, make a right onto Northgate Road from Rte. 133 in Ipswich (about eight... Read More
Featuring fashion newcomers and popular celeb-approved mainstays, this Boston boutique has clothed the city’s most prominent trendsetters. Childhood... Read More
Formerly a traditional Irish pub, Dbar is now a restaurant and nightclub offering a combination of New American cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and late... Read More
Sisters Ann Hill and Margaret Hill combined their backgrounds in design and fashion to create this eclectic boutique, which sources from abroad ... Read More
Eat, drink, and be merry below the Financial District’s Howl at the Moon. Once a year, it hosts the Beantown Comedy Riot, New England’s oldest and... Read More
Offering a taste of Latin America, this Harrison Avenue boutique features a unique collection of design imports. Hand-selected by owner Frank Campanale,... Read More
Trained naturalists take guests on four-hour boat trips off the coast of Provincetown to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is the... Read More
While you’re at the Springfield Museums, stop by this sculpture garden to see the Cat in the Hat; the author was born in town. Read More
The name doesn’t lie: this chic women’s shop is the place to find a perfect party dress—as well as comfortable but stylish T-shirts.... Read More
The award-winning brainchild from celebrated Boston chef/restaurateur Barbara Lynch, this highly praised craft cocktail bar in Fort Point is worth the... Read More
This Kenmore Square kitchen and bar earns its accolades for never failing to meet the Bostonian’s code of cocktail conduct. Order your favorite retro... Read More
The rambling former residence of the famous illustrator has been turned into a museum. The first floor has an ample display of his pen-and-ink drawings,... Read More
This small, five-year-old company promotes carbon-neutral activities and donates five percent of each trip’s revenues to local communities. ... Read More
Taking up an entire, five-story building in Boston’s fashionable Back Bay, this Newbury Street day spa features natural wood accents, fresh... Read More
Originally built in 1903, this Beaux Arts opera house shows off with red marble columns and plush velvet seats. With its towering proscenium, and enough... Read More
Between May and October, visitors to Nantucket can get a glimpse of the island as it was meant to be seen: from the water, and under sail. Captain Jim... Read More
The home field of the Boston Red Sox is a vivid throwback to the golden era of baseball. The park remains much the same as when it opened in 1912, with... Read More
The concrete box, designed by architects Kevin Roche and John Dinkeloo in 1975, contains a concert hall and a little-known contemporary art gallery. Read More
The sweet and savory creations of Pastry Chef/Owner Joanne Chang and her talented staff have made Flour Bakery + Café a Boston institution.... Read More
Flyer’s Boat Shop & Rental, in Provincetown, runs a funky service out to the wild, sandy spit where the Atlantic and the bay meet. If you'd... Read More
In the village of Oak Bluffs, check out the Flying Horses Carousel, and 1876 amusement that retains its original glass eyes and horsehair trimmings. Read More
Foodies love this gourmet shop for its huge selection of French jams, Tuscan honeys, and Asian teas—but cheeses are the main draw. The owners seek... Read More
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this waterway—which separates South Boston from downtown—was surrounded by scores of busy... Read More
This Civil War-era fort was built as Boston’s main line of defense against the Confederate Navy. Take a ferry through the harbor to Georges Island to... Read More
Stepping into this friendly and comfortable lingerie boutique is like waltzing, slipper-footed, into the walk-in closet of your dreams. Racks are filled... Read More
The Freedom Trail covers the basics of Boston history. The 2.5-mile red brick trail winds through 16 sites integral to the story of the American... Read More
Rent a bike at Gale Force Bike Rentals in Provincetown, pick up a map, and ride five miles along scenic High Head Road to the Cape Cod Highland... Read More
This contemporary photography gallery primarily showcases work emphasizing social issues, especially gender and identity. Kevin Bubriski’s Nepal 1975... Read More
Get in touch with Boston’s dark side on this nightly, “frightseeing” trolley tour. A talented cast of sinister characters recounts the chilling legends... Read More
This Harvard Square bookstore has sparked countless travel dreams and plans. Now located in a bright, spacious store, the Globe's vast selection of... Read More
This storefront on Charles Street in historic Beacon Hill has become a favorite with locals for unique jewelry, gifts, and home accessories. Hand-picked... Read More
It’s fitting that AARP and Grand Circle Travel share the same founder, Ethel Andrus, since Grand Circle Travel specializes in arranging easy-paced... Read More
Fermenting, macerating, and other liquor-making processes come to life with a a tour at Dorchester’s own Grand Ten Distilling. As part of the deal, you... Read More
This complex has it all—over 50 dealers under a single roof selling everything from antique high chairs to Oriental rugs. Read More
Head north to Turners Falls and bike the four-mile Canalside Rail Trail over the Connecticut River. Read More
Four-wheeling out on Nantucket’s remote, northeastern sand spits (which together form the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge) lets you experience the... Read More
Four-wheeling out on Nantucket's remote, northeastern sand spits (which form the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge) lets you experience the island's most... Read More
A pair of former New Yorkers owns this Eastham gallery, which sells Colonial-era benches and chests, and paintings of local landscapes. Read More
One of the secret springs left over from the Ice Age, hidden deep in the Wellfleet and Truro woods. The water is exquisitely clear and silky. Read More
A fashion boutique fit for the streets of Los Angeles or New York City, Gypsy was founded by stylist Paola Gonfrade in 2003 to offer shoppers more than... Read More
Explore all 30 miles including the breathtaking views and uncrowded beaches of the coast along route 1A; stop in the fishing town of Gloucester (made... Read More
Head west along the Mass Pike toward Hancock Shaker Village, the Shaker Museum & Library in Old Chatham, and what is left of the buildings that once... Read More
As the tallest building in Boston, the John Hancock Tower is hard to miss. Designed by Henry N. Cobb of IM Pei & Partners (now Pei Cobb Freed &... Read More
Boston is a stellar walking town, and the Harborwalk is the perfect way to get close to the water. From the North End to South Boston, travelers can... Read More
In 1932, owner and native Bostonian Mark S. Kramer opened up this shop with no more than $300 in his back pocket, creating an unofficial local landmark.... Read More
This museum is the most visited attraction at Harvard, boasting rarities such as the world’s only mounted Kronosaurus—a 42-foot-long prehistoric marine... Read More
Founded in 1630 as the colonial village of Newtowne, Cambridge's thronged central square today is filled with chain stores and roving students—not... Read More
This grassy, 25-acre college quad is the oldest part of the oldest university in the country. Visit the yard’s landmarks, such as the John Harvard... Read More
There's something for everyone here: stroll the 100 acres of gardens, check out collections of antique cars and folk art, ride on a vintage carousel, or... Read More
During World War II, a Red Cross volunteer gave David Hostetler something to draw with while he was recovering from a wound. From that beginning came a... Read More
Born in 1992 in a converted historic house in Cambridge, the House of Blues has grown up to be the music mecca of the Fenway neighborhood. While the... Read More
Iggy's, a brick storefront sandwiched between a lumber supply warehouse and a fire station in Cambridge's industrial area, supplies many of the city... Read More
Although they’re not technically from Capri—in fact, the company was founded in Naples 30-odd years ago—Il Sandalo’s elegant... Read More
The laughs bellow out of this comedy basement in the North End, an improv-sketch showroom where “Whose Line is it Anyway? meets Saturday Night Live! At... Read More
Whether you’re short, tall, curvy or skinny, in-jean-ius has the right denim to fit your body. The North End boutique stocks more than 30 brands... Read More
The first museum built in Boston in more than a century, the Institute of Contemporary Art opened in Fort Point in 2006. The museum houses a performing... Read More
The Gardner house holds intimate gallery rooms filled with masterpieces collected from around the world by the legendary Isabella herself. Per the... Read More
Isabelle Stewart Gardner was a devil-may-care soul who paraded lions around on a leash, drank beer (while Boston Brahmins frowned), and held court in... Read More
There’s no better way to explore the coast than by water, and Jack’s will outfit you with kayaks, canoes, and Sunfish sailboats. They&rsquo... Read More
Drag queens reign at this historic Boston showroom whose dark and divey veneer is just one part of its effortless charm. Opened for business in 1938, it... Read More
Looking out onto Dorchester Bay, the JFK Presidential Museum & Library offers a place for meditation and exploration of the life of President Kennedy.... Read More
To find shabby-chic cottage décor, check out Joan Peters of Osterville. The owner’s signature Cape Cod toile design appears on fabrics,... Read More
Jobi Pottery, in Truro, has been making its retro pieces, decorated with small black fish, since 1953. Read More
A bronze statue of John F. Kennedy stands in front of this brick Colonial building, a museum dedicated to his Cape Cod life. It looks as if he had... Read More
Set in an old Victoria home, the stationary shop has a vast and well-edited selection of cards and journals. Read More
Of the hundreds of galleries across Cape Cod, one of the best is this 46-year-old arts space, occupying a Greek Revival-style house with gardens. Stop... Read More
A subsidiary of Landmark Theatres, this is the youngest sanctuary in Boston for independent films. While it’s a home to 3D Hollywood blockbusters, it... Read More
A phonetic translation of the French phrase “coup de coeur,” which loosely means “a strike to the heart,” Koo de Kir is a modern... Read More
Drop by this downtown Nantucket shop to see why it calls itself “The French General Store.” Since 1996, L'Ile de France has been importing... Read More
Sun and sand lovers have their pick of public beaches on Nantucket—but the different shorelines offer very distinct experiences. Running along the... Read More
This gallery is committed to showcasing mixed-media prints, paintings and sculptures by experimental artists pushing the boundaries of physical... Read More
After one taste of this little market’s enormous bocadillos (traditional Spanish sandwiches), patrons are likely to be grabbing ingredients... Read More
Brand new to the Seaport District, this state-of-the-art, 300-seat stand-up and sketch comedy theater attracts rising stars to perform in Boston, five... Read More
This 127-year old tobacco shop specializes in quality cigars, hookahs, pipes, and fresh tobaccos. In addition to appeasing your vices, go here for old... Read More
Labels like Bono's Edun and Nicole Miller Collection fill the racks at this eco-chic clothing shop in downtown Nantucket. You'll also find vintage... Read More
Named after the Dutch word for "alluring," Lekker is a home furnishings store owned by entrepreneur Natalie van Dijk Carpenter, who worked in the house... Read More
Run by actor Tony Curtis’s ex-wife, Leslie Curtis Antiques & Design, in Dennis, specializes in wicker. Read More
Set beneath the iconic lighthouse in Chatham, scenic Lighthouse Beach is the place for long walks, kite flying, and picnics by the shore. This wild... Read More
Nantucket has a long and storied connection to the stars. Because of its distance from the mainland and important contributions to astronomy, the town... Read More
Walk these 600 acres of windswept dunes, hiking trails, and unspoiled coastline. Read More
One of the secret springs left over from the Ice Age, hidden deep in the Wellfleet and Truro woods. The water is exquisitely clear and silky. Read More
If you have to pick a place to get stuck in traffic, the Longfellow Bridge is it. Affectionately nicknamed the “Salt and Pepper” bridge for its shaker... Read More
Parking is nearly impossible at this picture-perfect cliffside beach. Read More
This is a second home for unabashed beer geeks. Casually settled off the beaten path in Cambridge, this place attracts a friendly crowd with an affinity... Read More
In an imposing Georgian mansion on Newbury Street, Louis Boston is a local institution with international import. With only four floors, the store is... Read More
This well-hidden, subterranean spot in the Seaport District lacks any sort of signage, but visitors willing to search for it are rewarded with classic... Read More
The orchard offers hayrides, ""ecoapples"" (not quite organic, but treated with the least harmful pest-control chemicals), and pie-making workshops. Read More
Madaket, on the far west coast, is one of the island's most beautiful beaches. The neighborhood offers a relaxed, family-friendly vibe and was once home... Read More
There’s only one place in the world to be surrounded by dozens of elaborate glass panels depicting the political geography of the world as it appeared... Read More
A raised platform wends its way through an amazing light-dappled swamp. The result is magical. Read More
Located on Main Street in West Chatham, this little gray cedar, cottage-style shop with a blue awning and front porch has a big customer following due... Read More
The museum is a village in miniature spread over 13 acres, with 26 buildings dedicated to art, music, dance, film, and theater. The institution can... Read More
Opens late September. Read More
For 95 years, MassArt’s fashion students have seen the magnum opus of their collegiate careers on the catwalk. Graduating seniors reveal their designs... Read More
The institution is known as a compact bastion of American treasures - Robert Henri's Salome (1909) is housed here. The museum has recently acquired a... Read More
With over 100 craft beers on tap and a specialized glass for each, this two-story Cambridge pub ensures you sit down with something to please your... Read More
Play in the gentle surf, perfect for children (with both lifeguards and nearby restrooms). You won’t witness a better sunset than here, a two... Read More
Located in the SOWA (south of Washington) area of the South End, Michelle Willey's boutique sells modern home accessories and furnishings. The scientist... Read More
Owners Missy Smith and Sarah Rhinesmith Buckley have a great sense of style. One of the front rooms in their ship captain’s house is devoted to... Read More
Cherry almond biscotti, pistachio butter cookies, raspberry macaroons, German chocolate gelato: with such a menu, it’s easy to understand why Mike... Read More
This charming boutique is where you’ll find wall-to-wall signature pieces from sweetheart designer brands like Anna Sui, Manoush, and Tibi. With roots... Read More
Mind-blowing works at the intersection of art, science, and technology are kept in this space, curated by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.... Read More
Captain Keith Lincoln will take you aboard the Rip Ryder to tour the natural beauty of the Monomoy Islands, a protected area for migratory birds and a... Read More
Spread across three islands near Chatham, the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area for migratory birds and a popular place to walk. If... Read More
Summer stock theater generally gets a bad rap, but the repertory productions at Harwich’s Monomoy Theatre are first-rate. Read More
This family-run farm has been in the Slosek family since the mid-1970’s. It started as a way to make some money off of extra vegetables, but now... Read More
The campus museum boasts 10 galleries dedicated to Asian, Renaissance, and contemporary art. Read More
The mountain's peak offers an incredible vista of the Connecticut River snaking through the valley. Read More
The Museum: The museum known as MOBA will never be mistaken for its acronymically similarly New York cousin, MoMA, or the Museum of Modern Art. The... Read More
Within these neoclassical walls, art-lovers can move through 10 millennia of artistic masterworks, ranging from Etruscan pottery to prints by Roy... Read More
The sheer majesty of this world-renowned arts institution would be overwhelming if it weren’t so enchanting. I’ve been delightfully lost many times,... Read More
Located beneath the Boston Center for the Arts, the Beehive is an award-winning restaurant and music lounge hosting live performances every night of the... Read More
The museum has everything hoop-related. Read More
Nantucket's Atheneum (the public library) has served the island community for almost 200 years. The former library—which was destroyed in the great fire... Read More
With water all around, sun-and-sand lovers have their pick of public beaches on Nantucket—but the different shorelines offer very distinct... Read More
“Cook with passion” is the motto of Jonathan Stone, who runs this downtown cooking shop with his wife Patty. From pots and pans to food... Read More
Nantucket's South Shore is ideal for surfing. On most days—even in the winter—you can find a surfer or two in wetsuits braving the waves. Visitors that... Read More
Peter O’Donovan relocated from Ireland to open Chatham’s Nantucket Wild Gourmet & Smokehouse, where he cures heavenly organic salmon on... Read More
A family-operated business, Nantucket Wine & Spirits specializes in helping customers find just the right spirit for whatever the occasion. The... Read More
In the heart of apple country, visitors can pick apples and sample 20 fruit wines, including sparkling apple wine and blueberry Merlot. Read More
This expansive strand in East Orleans is one of the more easily accessible parts of the Cape Cod National Seashore, since you can park just steps from... Read More
Neil Morris brings over 30 years of fragrance designing experience and a passion for creating unique scents to his Massachusetts Avenue store, Neil... Read More
Just a 10-minute walk from Quincy Market, this appropriately acclaimed showcase of sea life sits on Central Wharf overlooking Boston Harbor. Galleries... Read More
Don’t be fooled—this is not your average comic book store. The beloved flagship location of this local-roots New England novelty chain is the epicenter... Read More
In the late evening on Friday and Saturday nights, this comedic club takes over the dance floor at Boston nightclub, Rumor, for a two-hour show of heart... Read More
Formerly Niketown, this popular brand store recently revamped to become a two-story behemoth in honor of Boston’s celebrated sports heritage. The city’s... Read More
Inspired by the cocktail bars of the 1950’s and 60’s, Noir invites patrons to sit back on sleek leather couches and sip martinis in the... Read More
North Beach is the topic of Henry Beston’s Outermost House and Tim Wood’s Breakthrough: The Story of Chatham’s North Beach. A flat... Read More
Although relatively small in size, this waterfront community is also Boston’s oldest and most storied residential area, as it was first settled... Read More
People began settling Boston’s North End in 1630's, making it the city's oldest residential area. The historic neighborhood, which is home to... Read More
This one-room shack carries every kind of hammock imaginable, including crocheted models from Brazil and travel versions that fold up into a backpack. Read More
To say the decor in the Oak Bar is elaborate is an understatement. Dark wood paneling and a marble bar are complimented by an ornate ceiling, and the... Read More
This fishermen's hangout is a mecca for townies. If you’re an exhibitionist you can sit in the window and be seen by passersby. Read More
In North Falmouth, the crescent-shaped Old Silver Beach has calm waters that attract families. Read More
The old-fashioned, orange and green open-air trolleys are popular with visitors on mild summer afternoons. Enjoy the fully narrated ride through Boston... Read More
Chef Rachel Klein gets a lot of attention for her global cuisine in the second-floor restaurant, but mixologist Jon Ross's herbal-infused cocktails in... Read More
Founded in 1972, this is the most rewarding store for true designer vintage wear in the Boston area. The owner returns from weeklong international... Read More
For simple fare, try the Osterville Cheese & Sandwich Shop, with a white-and-yellow awning out front and a wide selection of cheeses and wraps. Read More
This Federal-era masterpiece by celebrated architect Charles Bulfinch is often overlooked by folks rushing off to other destinations, so slow down, step... Read More
Overseas Adventure Travel was founded in 1978 by former schoolteacher Judi Wineland, who was inspired to enter the industry after a trip to Africa. The... Read More
Loveingly referred to as “The Dice,” this intimate venue is praised for its on-point acoustics, affordable tickets, and a varied line up of fringe... Read More
Standing in the shadow of the Massachusetts General Hospital, this attractive building houses exhibits that explore the “firsts” associated with the... Read More
This Qing Dynasty merchant’s house from around 1800 was moved, stone by board, from China and re-erected. Read More
This two-story house in downtown Wellfleet is the go-to place for brightly colored plates, napkins, glassware, and rugs. Read More
The first incarnation of this store, featuring Peter England’s luxuriously soft knitwear, ran from 1977 to 1986, in a different location. But the... Read More
Located on the East Boston waterfront, this park juts out over the water to mingle with sailboats and cruise liners. It’s beautifully landscaped, with... Read More
A folk and country music and dance camp primarily for adults, Pinewoods got its start in 1919 as the first National Girl Scout Leadership Training... Read More
Offering an environmentally friendly way to travel around the city, PlanetTran is an auto service that uses an all-hybrid fleet of vehicles. The fuel... Read More
Plimoth Plantation is a living museum that teaches visitors about Plymouth’s early English colonists and the indigenous Wampanoag people. The 17th... Read More
Surrounded by the towering facades of the Financial District’s skyscrapers sits this shady oasis. In the summer, you can join in on a full calendar of... Read More
In the city with the highest concentration of bookstores on Cape Cod, this tiny shop stands out for its wide selection and long history, which dates... Read More
Located in a red-brick building just outside the city center, this bicycle shop is easily recognizable by a round white sign with the word “bikes... Read More
The gallery features local artists including Linda Post. Read More
At the tip of Cape Cod National Seashore in Provincetown is Race Point, a wide beach where dolphins and whales are often spotted offshore. Active types... Read More
The 300-year-old farm has 50 varietals, from classic Red Delicious to sweet-yet-tart Winter Banana. Read More
Rock anthem lyrics scrawled across the ceiling and cocktail tables decorated with the familiar faces of celebrity rockers set the stage at this... Read More
Every Friday and Saturday night, the second story of Om Restaurant in Harvard Square transforms into RhumBar, a weekend-only event featuring 23... Read More
Things have changed a bit since the original stand opened north of Boston in 1952, but customers are still served old-fashioned frappes (Yankee for milk... Read More
Tucked amid the high-end designer clothing boutiques, this specialty store has been selling edgey style out of a basement on Newbury Street since 1932.... Read More
Five decades of travel experience have made Robert Malmberg’s Boston-based agency one of the nation’s best. A member of the elite Signature... Read More
Rock Harbor in Orleans has planted trees in the surf to mark the channel for boats, and they make for a striking silhouette against the colorful sky. Read More
Completed in October of 2008, the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway occupies space that was vacated when the elevated Central Artery roadways were moved... Read More
This institution retells the awful tale of the famous trials with life-size figures, while across Salem Common, a Qing Dynasty merchant’s house... Read More
Located in the South End, this contemporary art gallery is the creation of founders Camilo Alvarez, a New York City transplant, and Alexandra Cherubini,... Read More
On a mission to make a better, more flavorful American beer, Jim Koch created Samuel Adams Boston Lager in the mid-80's using his great-great... Read More
Whether you want furniture painted by Peter Hunt or vintage firearms, this comprehensive shop has it all. Read More
The town of Sandwich is the oldest community on Cape Cod and is known for its glassmaking heritage. This museum, housed in a red-brick building on Main... Read More
The six-mile-long, dune-capped Sandy Neck Beach, in West Barnstable and Sandwich, is populated by more piping plovers than people. Read More
You can visit even when the shop isn’t open to wander through a peaceful sculpture garden. Read More
Set in a former 1844 schoolhouse, the galery focuses on photography-but also exhibits prints and paintings by area artists, as well as modern furniture,... Read More
The 'Sconset Bluff Walk (also known as the Cliff Walk) is the most scenic path in Nantucket. It goes from the picturesque village of Siasconset—where... Read More
Though it’s been around since 1904 and has its flagship store elsewhere (specifically, on New York City’s Park Avenue), this opulent jewelry... Read More
The four-mile Shining Sea Bike Path, from Falmouth to Woods Hole, follows the ocean and runs through woodlands, marshes, and salt ponds. Read More
Chinatown is keeping the secret about this neighborhood hot spot for modern Asian cuisine, but it won’t last for long. With its stained wood banquets... Read More
Spend a day on the 60-plus rides. Check the website for frequent discounts. Read More
Families flock to this action-packed amusement area in South Yarmouth that will keep the kids entertained for hours on end. You’ll find zippy little go... Read More
From the 50th floor of Prudential Tower, you’re at the height of it all. See the Charles River dotted with sailboats, the golden glint of the... Read More
A large majority of the artworks here are gifts of alumnae - many of whom started donating their prized posessions in the early 1900's. The building's ... Read More
This is one of Boston’s most unique entertainment venues, featuring both stage and screen productions since 1914. In addition to showing lesser known... Read More
Stretching out three blocks along Harrison Avenue in the South End, the market brings together a dozen or so food trucks, dozens of local artisans, and... Read More
Those who are fans of nostalgia and good deli food should make a stop at this general store on Route 6 near Lecount Hollow Road and the Cape Cod... Read More
If it’s the first Friday of the month, drop what you’re doing and head to this hive of creative industry, where three floors of studio space are... Read More
Tucked in between the ocean and the harbor, The Wauwinet is home to this decadent three-room spa. Estheticians and masseuses make use of Amala beauty... Read More
Once a landfill, Spectacle Island is now a beautiful 105-acre outdoor destination where visitors can enjoy everything from hiking to swimming. Just a 15... Read More
This unvisited secret spring was left over from the Ice Age and is hidden deep in the Wellfleet and Truro woods. The water is exquisitely clear and silky. Read More
One of the hidden gems of Cape Cod is Falmouth’s Spohr Gardens, laid out in the 1950’s by Margaret and Charles D. Spohr and now owned by a... Read More
While this Somerville watering hole is well known for its wine selection, its ever-changing creative list of cocktails gives it its flair. An intimate... Read More
Spend an afternoon wandering the gleaming corridors of these four museums dedicated to science, history, and art. Admission is just $12.50. Read More
With the help of their team of industry experts, chef Barbara Lynch and wine director Cat Silirie run this demonstration kitchen with the goal of... Read More
Art and architecture buffs have a new reason to head to the Berkshires this summer: the Stone Hill Center, Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando's... Read More
This Allston all-star bar self-proclaims one of the largest beer selections on the East Coast, and with 113 taps and 380 microbrews, it’s easy to be... Read More
Never let bygones be bygones at this retro-chic boutique, originally known as the Bettie Page Clothing Company. Specializing in “1950‘s reproduction,”... Read More
This Bohemian-chic cabaret is known for hosting amazing live music every night of the week. Go here for soulful live jazz on a Friday or Saturday night... Read More
One of Boston’s oldest gay bars, the Eagle’s legendary status is well earned. Marked simply and understatedly by a stone eagle perched above the... Read More
For picnic supplies, check out the Brown Jug, a gourmet grocery in Sandwich. They’ll also put together a basket for you, complete with cloth... Read More
This clubby, sophisticated hotel bar is a singles hot spot—and Boston's best place to sample artisanal cocktails. Chef and sometime mixologist... Read More
The new Stone Hill Center was desined by Pritzker-winner Japanese architect Tadao Ando. The original museum is a glowing white-marble temple desined by... Read More
This downtown institution, which partly occupies an early-1900’s Pullman train coach, is actually a full-scale restaurant. But though islanders... Read More
It’s not uncommon to find talent scouts from Comedy Central, PSNBC, and Conan O’Brien in the audience at The Comedy Study, searching for the next big... Read More
A rotating cast of top turntablists spins an ever-changing mix of hip-hop, rare groove, and mellow electronica in this ironically tiny space. The name,... Read More
The vintage department at this thrifty hipster heaven boasts boundless racks of real retro wear arranged by the decade ranging from the 1950s through... Read More
Before the ICA relocated to Fan Pier in 2006, no new art museums had been built on Boston soil in nearly a century. An obvious fusion of architecture... Read More
Housed within a dramatic Diller Scofidio + Renfro-designed structure designed that hangs ever so gently over Boston Harbor, the ICA is a stellar place... Read More
The colorful display outside the beachfront shop makes for a popular photo spot in P-town. Read More
Hearty platters of falafel and hummus gave this Central Square club its name, but it’s the wide variety of live music that’s made its... Read More
Get close to your new favorite band at this Middle Eastern restaurant and nightclub. The Downstairs basement hall features larger bands leading ear... Read More
Out in Jamaica Plain, this cash-only eclectic haven is often jam-packed with a curious crowd eager to check out a diverse weekly line up of live shows.... Read More
No shots or pitchers here. This Belgian gastropub takes it’s ale appeal very seriously. There’s a dining room on one side, and on the other, a... Read More
This trendy, local consignment store is the place to go for quality-assured complementary gear like handbags, scarves, belts, and jewelry. In summer,... Read More
This flowering, art-filled parkway is spotted with splash fountains for kids and a series of public art installations. Close to the Seaport Boston Hotel... Read More
There isn’t a bad seat in the house at this upscale Cambridge kitchen and music venue, where the band sets up on a lofty stage surrounded by standing... Read More
This onetime general store and gas station now sells local edibles—including croissants, pies, and a changing slate of house-made gelatos like... Read More
To get there, take the car ferry from Wood's Hole, MA, to Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard. It’s a short, pretty trip through calm waters. ... Read More
You’ll find designer labels to match the tireless, tread-heavy lifestyles of Boston and Cambridge inhabitants here. Since 1973, it’s the place to go at... Read More
Owners Beth Ann Hoyos and Lorrinda Cerrutti have created a juxtaposition of old and new at The Velvet Fly. The North End boutique offers a selection of... Read More
In the center of Sandwich, the Weather Store carries barometers, thermometers, and everything else weather-related, both old and new. Read More
At a time when there were very few places to sit down with a fine cup of Joe, Bernie and Gail Flynn opened this bookstore/coffee shop on “the wrong end... Read More
A masterpiece by visionary American architect Henry Hobson Richardson, this Episcopal Church has dominated Copley Square since it was built on Back Bay... Read More
It’s not Napa Valley, but during a tasting you can try some decent wines that are cultivated in the area, plus (for adventurous palates) a special... Read More
Playfully under-the-sea-themed, with cool watery hues, driftwood tables and glossy sea-shell-studded walls, this bar’s two rooms fill to capacity for... Read More
Shift your sightseeing into high gear on with a fleet of adventure-seeking cyclists. Since founder Andrew Prescott began leading tours from his... Read More
Launched in 1797, this 44-gun frigate is one of the first commissioned warships for the U.S. Navy. As legend has it, sailors saw British cannonballs... Read More
This 200-acre family farm is a go-to destination for fresh produce, homemade meals, and unusual gifts crafted by local artisans. Opened in 1995, the... Read More
Located in the back section of Michelle Willey's exclusive design boutique in the South End, Vessels Gallery specializes in ceramic arts. The well-lit... Read More
Established in 1947, Wally Walcott's live-jazz bar hosts up-and-coming performers (many of them students at the nearby Berklee College of Music and New... Read More
Standing beyond Boston’s borders, the panoramic view of the distant city and surrounding landscape from this hilltop tower is breathtaking. Find this... Read More
Operated by the Massachusetts Audubon Society, the network of trails here extends some five miles, encompassing woodlands, salt marsh, barrier beaches,... Read More
The only drive-in theatre still operating on Cape Cod, this nostalgic landmark first opened on Route Six in 1957. Every night from late May until Labor... Read More
Performances have included productions by David Mamet and Sam Shepard. Last summer, W.H.A.T.—as it’s commonly known in these parts&mdash... Read More
Anyone fascinated by Herman Melville's Moby-Dick—or, more recently, Nathaniel Philbrick's In the Heart of the Sea—will find plenty to learn in this... Read More
Located on the end of MacMillan Wharf, this small museum showcases artifacts from the only verified pirate shipwreck ever found: the Whydah, an 18th... Read More
At the entrance satnad Eyes (2001), massive gray marble slabs with round, watchful eyes perched on top, by phenomenal Paris-born sculptor Louise Bourgeois. Read More
With an entrance marked only by a friendly doorman, this secret South End craft cocktail speakeasy brings true Prohibition-era form to the modern age.... Read More
A great place to visit on a rainy day, this small public aquarium is operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and has more than... Read More
The best way to beach-hop during the days in on the 26 miles of bike paths that trace Nantucket's shores. Young's Bicycle Shop is the time-honored spot... Read More
Experience the Deerfield River on a white-water rafting or kayaking trip. The outfitter has launch locations a 30-minute drive from South Deerfield. Read More
