Jamey: Five Escapes from Busy, Bustling Boston

Hello COM! Hope you’ve all been enjoying this beautiful (yet unexpected) February weather. I’ve lived in Massachusetts my whole life and I’ve never seen weather like this in February, so I’m soaking in as much of the sunshine as humanly possible. I grew up in Framingham, MA which is about 30 minutes west of Boston. Since I’ve lived in the area my whole life, I often try to bring my friends (who are new to Boston) to my favorite parts of Massachusetts. Here are some MUST-SEE places if you’re new to Massachusetts. 

  1. Salem, MA: 

Salem, MA

Salem is accessibly by the Commuter Rail straight from Boston, and it’s home to some of Massachusetts most interesting history. Take a tour of the historical Salem Witch Trials site, or go and see some of the mystical psychics who have settled down in the area. Also, make sure to get a bagel at BAGEL WORLD, a small little joint that I happen to know serves the best bagels on the North Shore. 

  1. Canobie Lake Park: 

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Canobie Lake Park is technically in New Hampshire, but it is a Massachusetts staple nonetheless! The amusement park is home to the Corkscrew Coaster and Untamed for thrill rides, but it also has a water park that is open all summer long. And if you’re in the mood for a heart attack, you can go to the haunted houses that open in October! 

  1. Honeypot Hill Orchard: 

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If you’re going to live in New England, you NEED to go apple picking at least once. Honeypot is in Stow, MA and is open all fall for Apple picking. BU Student Activities usually leads a trip to Honeypot for some time in the fall, so like their Facebook page if you want more information on that! 

  1. Provincetown, MA 

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If you’re in Boston for the warmer months, you have to make your way to this town that is the very tip of Cape Cod. PTown is accessible by ferry from Boston and is home to beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, funny drag shows, and crazy joke shops. It’s Massachusetts’ best summer spot. Stop by the Lobster Pot for the best seafood dinner of all time. 

  1. Garden in the Woods: 

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If you are ever craving some peace and quiet in nature, Garden in the Woods is the place to go. Located in Framingham, MA (accessible by Commuter Rail), this reservation is home to all of Massachusetts’ local flowers and greenery. It’s a great place to meditate or take photographs, or just take a break from the hustle and bustle of Boston. 

That’s it for me! I hope you get a chance to explore these niche areas of the USA’s BEST state!