places to visit in massachusetts in spring

10 Best Things to Do in The Spring in New England

When flowers bloom and warm breezes flow, there’s no shortage of fun ways to celebrate. Here’s our curated list of all the best things to do in New England in the spring.

By Katherine Keenan

Feb 15 2023

A pathway on the Charles River Esplanade invites strolling beneath a canopy of blooms.

Springtime often feels like a prize for surviving the months of gray. One unpredictable, magical day, color begins to speckle flower beds. Smoke unfurls from the rooftops of sugaring shacks, sap flows like water. Windows crack open and we shake out the dust of the colder months, wipe down our bicycles, and make lists for a gardening supply run. Springtime events and festivals coax people out of their hibernation all across the region. The birds return. And with all of this comes celebration: we made it through the winter.

Meanwhile, long stretches of sand along the coastline remain sparsely dotted with dog walkers and springtime surfers, and paid parking still seems far away. Ski slopes still hold potential in the northern reaches of the region. Summertime crowds seem far away and reservations abound at the restaurants and hotels of New England’s most bucket-list-worthy destinations.

For all these reasons, spring is an excellent time of year to explore New England. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a year-round residency, be sure to gather some inspiration from our list of the best things to do in spring in New England before you hit the road.

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What is the weather like in the spring in new england.

The short answer is: unpredictable. Spring in New England is often a rollercoaster, bringing both high and low temperatures, freak snowstorms, buckets of rain, and – usually at least once every year – a day or two of sunbathing weather.

Although spring technically begins in March, the average temperatures remain low and you’ll almost certainly still spot some snow on the ground. Then comes the rainy month of April, which can be somewhat of a toss-up as to whether any given week will bring a snow flurries or a sunny spell. With that in mind, if you’re looking for the best month to visit New England during the spring, bet on May and June. The flowers and the sunshine have emerged by then, and the rain will have subsided substantially. That said, don’t blame us if your travels land on a rainy week – spring showers come with the territory. If you don’t mind a little bit of rain, you’ll be just fine.

10 Best Things to Do In Spring in New England

1. Stop and smell the flowers at one of New England’s public gardens or flower festivals

Nothing cheers the winter-weary spirit like the first glimpse of green. Spring blooms, from April daffodils to May lilacs, remind us there’s life beyond that heavy winter coat. And lucky for us, every spring New England abounds with flower festivals and public gardens packed with beautiful blooms.

The Nantucket Daffodil Festival , the Massachusetts island’s annual April celebration of all things daffodil includes art shows, tours, an antique car parade, tailgate picnic, window decorating contest, and the annual Nantucket Daffodil Flower Show. Costumes are encouraged — especially at the Daffy Hat Contest and children’s parade.

Another one of our favorite places to enjoy springtime blossoms is at The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts . Once an abandoned trolley bridge, this 400-foot arch across the Deerfield River has been reclaimed to display a garden that is anything but ordinary. Stroll past spring staples like tulips and daffodils while enjoying bows of wisteria overhead and blue hyacinths suspended over the water.

One of the best places to see blossoms around Boston is in Jamaica Plain, where every May the Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum showcases one of the most impressive collections of lilacs. Another great option is wandering through Boston Public Garden . The springtime display gets under way in March, as they begin planting pansies and other early perennials from the parks department’s 13 greenhouses, and it becomes downright lavish by May, when 30,000 bulbs burst into life—the vast majority of them being tulips in the Public Garden, where they have been planted each year since the 1840s.

Here are a few the best public gardens in New England:

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens  | Boothbay, ME

Elizabeth Park  | West Hartford, CT

Mount Desert Land & Garden Preserve  | Seal Harbor, ME

Harkness Memorial State Park  | Waterford, CT

Prescott Park  | Portsmouth, NH

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park  | Woodstock, VT

Other favorite New England flower festivals include:

The Dogwood Festival  | Fairfield, CT

Daffodil Days at Blithewold Mansion  | Bristol, RI

Celebration of Peonies at Hildene  | Manchester, VT

Cherry Blossom Festival | New Haven, CT

2. Hit the trail!

There’s nothing like a breath of fresh, springtime air. While you will still need to don your coat on chillier spring days, the return of warmer weather means that it’s the perfect time to tune up your bike, lace up your hiking boots, and start getting back out there. Some of our favorite things to do outdoors during the spring in New England include: taking a bike ride on one of New England’s many beautiful rail trails , exploring one of the region’s many nature preserves , or embarking upon an easy spring hike (be aware that the trails may be extra slippery during this season due to ice or mud).

3. Make the most of maple season

If autumn is New England’s Mardi Gras, maple season is our Oktoberfest, a delicious celebration of regional heritage in liquid form. And as our tasty to-do list shows, syrup lovers from Connecticut to Quebec have plenty of inspired ways to drink it all in. You could visit a maple sugarhouse, pour it on at a pancake house like the iconic Polly’s Pancake Parlor , or simply bring home a bottle and cook up some maple goodies in the kitchen.

Some of our favorite maple syrup recipes for spring include our food editor’s recipe for Maple Gooey Butter Cake , these mouthwatering Maple Barbecue Ribs , a collection of boozy Maple Syrup Cocktail Recipes , and of course, Sugar on Snow . What’s more, there are many alternative maple concoctions that are worthy in their own right. We’ve also rounded up a few favorite New England–made maple products that give new meaning to maple. Fans of savory-sweet combinations will love the maple pepper, maple-smoked cheddar, and maple sriracha, while those with a sweet tooth may prefer to pop open a tub of the aforementioned maple cotton candy. And not everything is meant to be eaten: We found earrings, ceramics, refrigerator magnets, and even art supplies.

Don’t know your rich from your robust? Our guide to the updated maple syrup grades is here to help explain the difference. Just pass the pancakes!

4. Sneak in a few last runs on the slopes

When skiable slopes align with blue skies, bright sunshine, and tee-shirt weather, magic happens. Springtime certainly doesn’t mean it’s time to retire your skis for the season. as evidenced on many of New England’s bigger mountains, which make snow well through the spring months. In the colder areas of New England you can even still find skiable snow on cross country ski trails .

5. Enjoy spring ingredients by making an in-season meal

April showers bring asparagus. That’s how the saying goes…right? Rhubarb, radishes, fiddleheads, and asparagus are only a handful of the fresh foods to look forward to every spring. Here are some of our favorite easy spring recipes from the Yankee  and NewEngland.com archives, which will help you make the most of fleeting, in-season foods:

Asparagus Gouda Tart

Maple walnut muffins, rhubarb coffee cake, sautéed fiddleheads, spring pea salad, spring chicken, strawberry-rhubarb crisp.

6. Get your gardening gloves on

Whether herbs, flowers, or vegetables are your particular passion, springtime is “go time” when it comes to gardening. Everyone with a green thumb knows, that means a trip to the local garden center. Our list of the best New England nurseries and garden centers is a great place to start.

7. Attend a Patriot’s Day reenactment

Where better to commemorate Patriots’ Day, which marks the battles of Lexington and Concord and the start of the American Revolution, than on the very ground where so much history happened? Thousands of people visit Minuteman National Park during the annual Patriots’ Day festivities, one of the best spring events in New England for history buffs. Show up early and you may have an opportunity to tip a pre-fight pint with British and colonial reenactors at Munroe Tavern. Beyond the battlefield, Lexington, Concord, and the surrounding towns serve up a weekend jam-packed with patriotic fun.

8. Browse antiques at the Brimfield Antique Fair

The largest outdoor antiques show in the country, with over 4,500 dealers and 130,000-plus visitors during the course of the week, kicks off the first of its three annual events each spring, making it a clear contender for the best spring events in New England. Running about a mile along Route 20 on both sides of the road and extending several hundred yards back, dealers show off their wares for pickers and collectors — both casual and ferocious. We dare you to leave empty-handed. (If you miss the spring show, make sure to mark your calendar for July or September.)

9. Take a springtime seaside stroll

Months before the sand becomes dotted with neon beach chairs, there is a haunting beauty to the beaches of New England. In shoulder season the beaches stay fairly quiet, save for dog walkers and winter surfers. It’s a refreshing sight for those accustomed to summertime crowds, especially when temperatures warm up enough for a stroll along the coastline or on one of the region’s many beaches. The next time there’s a warm spell in the forecast, take this as a perfect excuse to plan a beach getaway (at off-season rates, no less)!

Some of our favorite New England coastal walks include:

Marginal Way | Ogunquit, ME

Parker River National Refuge | Plum Island, MA

Bluff Point State Park | Groton, CT

Napatree Point Conservation Area | Watch Hill, RI

Odiorne Point State Park | Rye, NH

See our list of 11 Magical New England Coastal Walks for more ideas.

10. Spend some quality time with baby animals

Every April, farms and museums open their doors to the public to showcase some of New England’s newest additions. One of our favorites is the Billings Museum Baby Farm Animal Celebration in charming Woodstock, Vermont, which offers visitors the opportunity to get up close with the farm’s adorable baby animals, plant an heirloom seed, participate in fun craft activities, and more. We also love the springtime Family Farm Fest Weekends at Old Sturbridge Village (in fact, we think springtime is one of the best times to visit Old Sturbridge Village), as well as the baby animals at the Hancock Shaker Village .

BONUS | Honorable mentions

Looking for more New England springtime fun? Don’t miss these iconic annual events:

Opening Day at Fenway Park

Best Saint Patrick’s Day Parades in New England

Best Sheep and Wool Festivals in New England

What’s your favorite thing to do in the spring in New England? Let us know in the comments below!

Katherine Keenan

As the Associate Digital Editor, Katherine writes and edits content for NewEngland.com and promotes Yankee Magazine on social media channels. A graduate of Smith College, Katherine grew up in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and currently lives in Maine.

Travel With Sandi

11 Things To Do In Massachusetts In Spring

Time to get outside, shake off your winter coat, and celebrate spring.

Across Massachusetts spring begins with a muddy (even snowy) March and a somewhat rainy April. Mid-April through May the weather is more temperate, the sun is shining, flowers are blooming and everyone is shaking off winter cabin fever. Many Bay Staters look to leave their winter cocoon and enjoy the great outdoors as the temperature warms. Below are a few of my favorite outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy in Massachusetts in spring — Mid April through late June.

Travel With Sandi is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs designed to earn advertising fees by linking to sellers’ websites.

1. Fenway Park

Red Sox season begins with a bit of chill in March but quickly warms as the season progresses. If you don’t want to break the bank and experience the game with seats on the “Green Monster”, take a tour of the park. A Fenway Park Tour will take you through the oldest major league baseball park (1912).

Even if you aren’t a Boston Red Sox fan, a tour of Fenway Park will thrill all baseball fans.

2. Boston Marathon

What better way to celebrate Patriot’s Day than watching the Boston Marathon. On Marathon Monday, viewers line the route from Hopkinton to Boston cheering on the 30,000 registered runners as they fill the streets with pounding sneakers.

According to Boston.com there are some wonderful spots to view the Boston Marathon runners. Of course Heartbreak Hill and the Boylston Street finish line are two very popular viewing spots.

Keep in mind, parking can be a real issue; public transportation is a good option to enjoy the Marathon Monday festivities and special events.

3. Whale Watch

Off the coast of Massachusetts between Cape Ann and Cape Cod is Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a premier underwater park. A perfect whale watching destination, you may see Blue Whale, Fin Whale, Sei Whale, Long-Finned Pilot Whale, Common Minke Whale, and Orca (Killer Whale). Also a wide range of Dolphins visit the Bank including White Bearded, Bottlenose, White Sided, and Common Dolphins.

Cape Ann Whale Watch

On the north shore, you can sail out on a glorious day of whale watching. After you have wandered around Gloucester for a bit, spend a few hours on a Whale Watching Tour .

Plymouth Harbor

If you are visiting the south shore, Plymouth is the perfect spot to get out on the water and search for whales. Hop aboard Captain John Boats whale watch expedition for a wonderful day on the high seas.

Pro Tip: Tours start mid to late in April. Dress warmly, a hat and gloves are highly recommended.

4. Freedom Trail

Walking around the historic area of Boston brings the American Revolution into clear focus. You can explore the 2.5 mile walk on your own. For a more indepth experience join a Freedom Trail Tour where your local guide will bring Boston’s history alive with fun stories and interesting quips.

5. Old Sturbridge Village

There is no shortage of Early American history in Massachusetts. When you explore a living museum, you are thrust into the life and times of early settlers. Chat with costumed role players as they regale you with stories of their day-to-day Colonial lifestyle.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Old Sturbridge Village . In springtime, the 1830’s village is filled with the arrival of baby animals, muster days, sheep shearing, and more farm focused activities. As you journey down the central Old Sturbridge village road, you are transported back to a simpler life when the arrival of spring flowers and planting time was a welcome calendar change.

6. Plimoth Patuxet And The Mayflower II

Visiting the colony where it all began at Plimoth Patuxet is a living history lesson. As the plantation opens each spring — lovely weather warms the garden soil and historical residents get ready for the steady stream of visitors.

7. New England Botanic Garden

Nothing says spring more than a field of bright yellow daffodils. At the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston you can wonder at the carpet of over 25,000 stunning daffodils. First planted in 1991, the display heralds the arrival of spring unlike any other event.

Some species bloom as early as the first week in April, while the most showy display is typically between the third week in April and the first week of May. A visit to the New England Botanic Garden is a fun outing for the whole family.

Pro Tip: To time a perfect peak viewing visit, stay tuned to their Facebook page.

8. Boston Public Garden And Boston Common

A bright sunny spring day in Boston is a wonderful gift after the gray of winter. Starting in early April, crocus and daffodils show off their bright yellow and deep purple hues enchanting passersby. As the days become warmer, stately tulips, azaleas, and a variety of other blooming plants enhance a stroll through the Boston Public Garden alive with spring flowers. The juxtaposition of the delicate flowers and towering Boston skyline makes the spring season experience even more enchanting.

While you are in the area, visit the Boston Common, home to interesting sculptures and memorials including “The Embrace,” a memorial honoring Dr. Martin Luther and Coretta Scott King, “Brewer Fountain,” “Soldiers and Sailors Monument,” and more.

For a true Boston tourist experience, embark on a Swan Boat ride. The Swan Boats begin their on-the-water tours in mid-April.

9. deCordova Sculpture Park And Museum

Plan to spend a few hours at the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln. The modern outdoor sculptures are set off with a panorama of natural green. It is a beautiful way to experience contemporary sculptures while strolling through a springtime outdoor setting. Your self guided walking tour through this amazing place filled with massive art installations is a perfect afternoon outing for art lovers.

10. Fruitlands Museum

Tucked away in bucolic Harvard is a historic utopian village preserved for guests enjoyment, the Fruitlands Museum . You can walk the grounds, stroll one of the trails, enjoy their art museum, and historic home tours. The late 19th century transcendentalist community was an experiment in self-reliant, subsistence farming. Sadly, it lasted only seven short months, however it left intact all rolling hills and dirt roads, for us to enjoy and explore.

11. Minute Man National Park

The American Revolution comes to life at Minute Man National Park .

During the month of April, the park is host to wonderful events commemorating the battles that started our road to independence. The Battle Road living history event is a signature event. Costumed volunteers act out the conflict between Colonial Minutemen and British soldiers as they struggle to maintain a stronghold.

Other events include the search of Colonel James Barrett’s house, a dramatic “shot heard round the world” at the North Bridge, and a 5 mile immersive Battle Road trail hike. Rangers and volunteers regale visitors with stories of heroism and bravery as the fight for freedom began in the fields and farms of Concord and Lexington.

Massachusetts in Spring

Northshore, Southshore, the Berkshires, Boston, and across central Massachusetts, spring’s promise of warmer weather brings locals and visitors outdoors for fresh air in search of fun things to do. Whether you are warmed by an early June stroll through beautiful gardens or a mid May nature walk enjoying quality time with your besties, The Bay State is a wonderful spot to spend time outside in the spring season.

Exploring Massachusetts in spring and all the seasonal special events, before the summer crowds descend, is the perfect way to throw off the mantel of winter cold and embrace the bright New England sunshine.

Happy Travels,

PIN FOR LATER

If you are on Cape Cod, check out the Sandwich Glass Museum

Don’t you just hate it when your phone battery is in the dreaded red zone? I always carry Fuel Rods with me. They give me a battery boost, they are rechargeable, and they work with iphones and androids. 

Travel health insurance when you are heading out of the country is an important consideration. Many policies don’t fully cover you outside of the US. I use Safety Wing for my international travels. I use the one-time coverage option for individual trips – luckily I haven’t had to use it, but it’s comforting to know I have it in place. And, if you are traveling in a country that may require you to be airlifted for proper medical attention, Medjet is the best option for evac insurance. 

If you know me, you know I love a glass of wine (or two). My favorite mail order wine company is Naked Wines . I order a case every month or so – no judgment please. I love that they work with small independent winemakers and I get to choose what wine I want and when I want it delivered. 

Don’t forget to download my free packing list ! It’s the perfect jumping off point to get your adventure started.Visit my YouTube Channel: Bucket List Travel Destinations . Travel With Sandi around the world to destinations perfect for seniors and the people they love as travel companions.

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I just loved reading about things to do in Massachusetts in the Spring! You have so many great ideas…and I have always wanted to visit the state since I was a child. Will definitely need to make this dream a reality soon and take my two teens (who are just as fascinated with New England as I am). I will be bookmarking this blog for future travel ideas!

Great list of the top 11 things to do in Massachusetts this spring. Love Freedom Trail and all the historical sites especially.

MA is so fun! There are lots of things to do in Spring!

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The 15 Very Best Places To Go In Massachusetts This Spring

Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

More by this Author

When the snow starts to melt and cold winter winds turn into fresh spring breezes, there’s no better place to be than Massachusetts. Why not celebrate the return of (relatively) balmy temps with an adventure? Check out this list of the very best spots explore in Massachusetts this spring.

Follow the links in the descriptions to see our full article on each location.

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Where do you love to go in Massachusetts in the spring? Let us know in the comments. For more Bay State exploration ideas, check out these 10 underrated places you must check out.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Explore Massachusetts

The best places to visit in Massachusetts for history, beaches and witches

Jul 31, 2022 • 7 min read

Any list of great places to visit in Massachusetts starts with historic and photogenic Boston © Opla / Getty Images

For a small state,  Massachusetts punches far above its weight for its place in American history and culture.

Given the state’s outsize contributions to the arts, science, technology, sports and politics, it’s jam-packed with memorable sites, top-tier educational institutions and world-class museums. It’s also beautiful, from the wave-pounded Atlantic coast to the forest-covered Berkshires to vibrant cities and charming small towns.

Massachusetts’ compact nature makes it easy to explore, yet it would be impossible to do everything the state has to offer . Depending on your time and interests, you could make a grand sweep through the state, sampling its diverse regions or pick a hub to explore in depth. However you proceed, these are the best places to visit in Massachusetts.

Start in Boston, with museums, sports and urban nature 

From the Freedom Trail to Fenway Park , the Italian food of the North End to the Venetian palazzo–style Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , Boston ’s attractions are legendary. 

A hub of American history that’s infused with a passion for sports and the arts, Boston brims with character. Next to the city’s iconic sites, diverse neighborhoods and artistic and architectural treasures are lesser-known attractions like the Boston Harbor Islands , a mix of history and nature, and the Black Heritage Trail , which provides insight into Boston’s 19th-century Black community.

Enjoy intellectual pursuits and diverse dining in Cambridge

A multicultural city with an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, Cambridge is home to two of the country’s most prestigious institutions of higher education, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University .  

Though you can’t “pahk ya cah in Hahvahd Yahd,” you can stroll across its leafy quads, explore the excellent campus museums and soak in the intellectual atmosphere.

Further west,  Mt Auburn Cemetery contains the graves of dozens of famous figures such as Clement Morgan (founder of the NAACP), Eleanor Porter (author of Pollyanna ) and Joyce Chen (restaurateur and TV personality). Mt Auburn is also a magnet for bird-watchers, especially during the spring migration. 

Get witchy with it in Salem

Best known for the infamous 1692 witch trials, Salem draws crowds with its witch-related attractions. Yet this small and charming city has much more to offer.

Visit the Salem Maritime National Historical Park to learn about its past as a leading 18th- and 19th-century seaport. And be sure to explore the outstanding Peabody Essex Museum , a treasure trove of objects seafarers brought back from far corners of the world.

Don’t miss the House of the Seven Gables , which dates from 1668 and inspired one of Salem-born author Nathaniel Hawthorne’s best-known novels. And for more historic architecture, wander through the McIntire District, filled with well-preserved homes spanning 400 years of building styles. 

Admire the scenic coastline of Cape Ann

Located in the northeastern part of the state, Cape Ann has an identity intimately tied to the sea: think beautiful beaches, great seafood – the fried clam was invented in Essex – scenic harbors and lighthouses and coastal parks. Founded in 1623, the city of Gloucester is the oldest fishing port in the United States and a top whale-watching destination, with tours operating from April to October. 

Along the harbor, the gripping Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial and Fishermen’s Wives Memorial honors those lost to the sea over the centuries, as well as the strong women who kept families and the community going. 

Seek out revolutionary and literary landmarks in historic Middlesex County

The peaceful, affluent suburbs northwest of Boston may not look like hotbeds of revolution now, but they played an integral role in shaping the USA . Dozens of sites in Lexington, Lincoln and Concord commemorate the dramatic events of April 19, 1775, when armed clashes between British regulars and Colonial militiamen sparked the American Revolutionary War. Concord was also the home of several prominent 19th-century American authors, including such luminaries as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Henry David Thoreau. 

Further north, Lowell’s textile mills and factories were at the heart of a different revolution: the Industrial Revolution. A host of significant locations are preserved in Lowell National Historical Park , including the Boott Cotton Mills Museum , where visitors can recreate working in a weave room in the 1920s. 

Plymouth is best for early colonial history

The city of Plymouth is made for US history buffs. Climb aboard the Mayflower II , a full-scale replica of the original ship that brought the first English colonists to Massachusetts’ shores in 1620.

And don’t forget Plymouth Rock, the famous (if rather underwhelming) boulder that the Pilgrims supposedly landed. The Pilgrim Hall Museum houses original artifacts from the early settlement, including personal possessions like a cradle, cupboards, a razor kit and one silk shoe.   

At the Plimouth Patuxet Museums , costumed interpreters bring the past to life at four sites, including a 17th-century English village and a Wampanoag Native American home site. 

Find glorious beaches and classic summer fun in Cape Cod 

Cape Cod calls up images of sandy dunes, long curves of beach, picturesque lighthouses , cranberry bogs and kettle ponds. 

Much of the outer Cape is protected as the Cape Cod National Seashore and offers a wealth of recreational opportunities and wildlife spotting. Nature lovers will also love the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and its trails through woodland and salt marsh, and Nickerson State Park , with its campgrounds and swimming areas.

Make a preppy getaway to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

South of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket  are islands containing quaint towns, gingerbread-style wood houses, intriguing museums, lovely beaches, lighthouses and wildlife refuges. It’s no wonder many well-known artists, authors and even a few US presidents have found comfort among the sweeping dunes on these islands. 

Their permanent populations swell significantly in summer (the high season) with the influx of seasonal residents and short-term visitors. Book lodging – and ferry tickets, if you want to bring a car – well in advance.

Feast on seafood and seafaring history in New Bedford

Situated on the shore of Buzzards Bay, New Bedford is called “the city that lit the world” for its central role in the 19th-century whaling industry. The New Bedford Whaling Museum and New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park explore this past and such other topics as natural history, conservation, immigration, cultural diversity and New Bedford’s important role as an abolitionist hub on the Underground Railroad. 

If whaling’s not your thing, New Bedford is also home to the well-presented Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Military Museum , a thriving arts community and the largest Portuguese-speaking population in the USA. The city teems with seafood restaurants and hosts the world’s largest Portuguese cultural festival, the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament . 

Worcester is great for families 

Worcester is New England’s second-largest city, and its attractions include the excellent Worcester Art Museum , the family-friendly EcoTarium , a thriving craft brewery scene and the minor-league Worcester Red Sox baseball team.  

West of the city is the Old Sturbridge Village , a recreated 1830s New England town filled with more than 40 restored buildings spread over 200 acres. Re-enactors teach the history of the village and the roles everyday folks played in it.  Moore State Park , located in Paxon and northwest of Worcester, is an 18th-century mill village on 400 acres filled with trails for hiking, cross country skiing and hunting. 

The Berkshires offer endless outdoor adventures

In westernmost Massachusetts, The Berkshires enchant with a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions and year-round outdoor recreation. 

The region hosts world-class performing arts events in warmer months like the Tanglewood Music Festival , Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival and Williamstown Theatre Festival . Art lovers won’t want to miss the Norman Rockwell Museum , the Clark Art Institute or Mass MoCA . 

The many interesting historic houses in the region include the birthplaces of activists Susan B. Anthony and W.E.B. DuBois, the homes of authors Edith Wharton and Herman Melville, and Naumkeag , a Gilded Age mansion and gardens. 

With the arrival of autumn, glorious fall foliage cloaks the hills and mountains, drawing leaf peepers galore, followed by winter-sports enthusiasts as soon as there’s enough snow.

Soak in the college-town vibes of the Pioneer Valley

A creative spirit flourishes along the Connecticut River in western Massachusetts, a region with numerous top-notch educational institutions and museums surrounded by gorgeous scenery. In Amherst, highlights include the home of poet Emily Dickinson and the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art . 

In Springfield, The Amazing World of Dr Seuss celebrates the city’s most famous native son, while the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is an essential stop for fans of the sport invented here in 1891.

Stop in Historic Deerfield Village  for a taste of 18th-century life or visit Dinosaur Footprints for a trip much farther back in time. Stroll across the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, then take to one of the region’s many excellent hiking trails boasting panoramic views of verdant mountains, farmland and the winding river.

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Spring in Boston: 12 Best Things to Do for Spring Fun

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When spring has officially sprung in Boston , winter gloom quickly becomes a thing of the past! There are so many great ways to enjoy spring in Boston: flowers are blooming, warmer winds are blowing, and springtime in Boston has several fun annual events that take advantage of the warming weather.

There are many fantastic things to do in spring in Boston, so pack a windbreaker and head to the City on a Hill for a fantastic spring getaway!

Table of Contents

Visit Arnold Arboretum

Beautiful Arnold Arboretum springs alive each year with its carefully cultivated flowering trees and bushes. Visit mid to late April to experience the heady fragrance and explosion of color that the Magnolia and Lilac trees offer! Take a self-guided tour or visit on Lilac Sunday for an even deeper dive into all the interesting varieties of lilac found at Arnold Arboretum.

Walk the Esplanade

Walking the Boston Esplanade is a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy the views of the river, but mid to late April this walk transforms into something straight out of the pages of a storybook as the cherry trees bloom with beautiful light pink flowers. In fact, multiple varieties of cherry trees have been planted along the river with varying bloom times, so you can walk on a carpet of freshly fallen flowers while strolling beneath the flowering canopy; how very picturesque! Be sure to also stop by the other Boston photo spots.

Hang at Boston Public Garden

A must-visit during any trip to Boston, the Boston Public Garden is a definite sight to see April through May as the pansies and tulips burst into spring color. Perfect timing too, because the iconic swan boat rides open up again for the season in mid-April! 

See Art in Bloom at the Museum of Fine Arts

Boston is home to many fantastic museums, but Art in Bloom at the Museum of Fine Arts is a definite must-visit for everyone who loves both art and flowers! Interpretative flower arrangements for artworks on display at the museum make this annual event a cool way to celebrate spring in Boston! 

Tour the Fenway Victory Gardens

Walk the paths amongst these historic gardens that were first planted as Victory Gardens during WWII and marvel at how well they are kept up (and expanded!) by the private residents that continue to keep Fenway Victory Gardens alive! Spring activities that incorporate cool Boston history? Yes, please!

Stroll the Rose Kennedy Greenway

Boston’s Greenway is a natural haven in the city’s urban hub, and it becomes a fantastically scenic sanctuary in spring as daffodils, tulips, daylilies, rhododendrons, peonies, and more bloom mid-April through May. Plus, just off the Greenway in Columbus Park is the North End’s Rose Kennedy Memorial Garden , where some of the most beautiful and fragrant roses begin to bloom in late May and early June!

Brunch and Cruise Boston Harbor

What better way to shake off the winter blues than to get out and enjoy the fresh sea breeze? Northern Light’s Brunch Cruise is a fantastic way to spend a weekend day in spring. The gourmet brunch offerings are just icing on the proverbial cake of this lovely tour of some of Boston’s most iconic waterfront features.

Cheer at the Boston Marathon

Editorial credit: Marcio Jose Bastos Silva / Shutterstock.com

One of the most famous marathons in the country, the Boston Marathon has become both a testament to athletic strength and endurance and also to the remarkable tenacity of the human spirit. You’ll be one of hundreds of thousands of spectators so be sure to arrive plenty early to scope out the perfect spot to cheer the participants on!

Tour the Hidden Gardens of Beacon Hill

May’s Hidden Gardens of Beacon Hill tour lets you explore the private gardens of one of Boston’s most beautiful neighborhoods, historic Beacon Hill. Want the inside scoop? This is where it’s at! Hidden Boston gardens in spring just sound so very romantic!

Celebrate Irish Heritage with St Patrick’s Day Fun

With the densest Irish American population in America, you can be sure that Boston celebrates St Patrick’s Day right! There are so many fun ways to participate in the St Patricks Day festivities , any spring Boston trip near March 17th is sure to be a blast; you’ll certainly see plenty of green if you visit Boston in early spring!

Enjoy the Boston Skyline via Rooftop

Take advantage of the warmer temperatures to get out and enjoy the beautiful Boston skyline while hanging at one of Boston’s best rooftop spots ! Spring in Boston can get pretty busy; slow down a little by taking in the spectacular cityscape while you refuel. Dorchester Brewing Co is one of the best breweries in the city, and they have a neat rooftop setup! What better way to enjoy the beautiful Boston spring breeze than by rooftop?

Walk the Boston Freedom Trail

One of the most popular historic sites in Massachusetts , the Boston Freedom Trail is an excellent way to get out and enjoy the fresh Boston spring air! Not only will you get a nice little walk, but you also get to see history come alive as you visit spots like Faneuil Hall and the Paul Revere House. Plus, you’ll be able to cross this one off your ultimate Boston bucket list !

Boston is a fantastic getaway all through the year: whether you’re looking for romance , a family trip , fall festivities , winter fun , or Boston Christmas celebrations , there’s no doubt that Boston is one of the best vacation destinations in New England !

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• 10 Must-Visit Restaurants for the Best Lobster Rolls in Boston
• How to Spend One Day in Boston: 24 Hours of Boston Fun!
• 12 Best Beaches Near Boston to Get Your Vitamin C

36 Delightful Things To Do This Spring In Boston

Hello, sunshine! You've been missed dearly. Enjoy the warmer weather this season and explore everything our city has to offer.

From springtime favorites like walks through the park and outdoor dining to exciting events like hidden garden tours and gin & tea parties, read on to find all the fantastic things to do in Boston this spring.

1-8. See spring flowers in bloom at 8 local spots

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While most flowers will start to bloom in mid-April, if you look closely, you can see the first sprouts of spring flowers now. Soon enough, Boston will be in full bloom, so check out our guide on 8 places that’ll you’ll be guaranteed to see flowers this spring, including:

• The Gardner Museum: if it’s still too early for spring flowers outdoors, you can see dazzling orchids inside their courtyard.
• Back Bay neighborhood : from early to late April, you’ll find magnolias in every shape, size, and color
• Arnold Arboretum : with a beautiful selection of trees year round, it’s a popular spot in early May when the lilacs bloom.

9. Go down the rabbit hole at the Mad Hatter’s Gin & Tea Party

Let a little storybook magic into your life at this Alice in Wonderland-inspired Gin and Tea Party in Boston. At this tipsy tea party extravaganza, you’ll join the Mad Hatter, Dormouse, and The March Hare, in a 90-minute long, cocktail-crafting session. With whimsical cocktails in a completely surreal environment, it’s the perfect event for springtime fun. Limited seats are avaiable at the Mad Hatter’s table, so make sure to book your tickets soon !

10-11. Learn all about making maple syrup

For a little bit longer, you can experience this classic New England end-of winter experience. Appleton Farms in Ipswich hosts hands-on family maple sugaring workshops  every weekend from now until March 27, and Old Sturbridge Village is hosting their  Maple Days events throughout the month, too.

12. Bring home your own piece of spring with a bouquet of flowers

We can’t wait to tiptoe through the tulips when they start to bloom outdoors this spring, but you can also take a little piece of spring home with you when you stop by a local florists’ shop! The iconic Rouvalis Flowers already has their spring display out, so you don’t have to wait for flowers to bloom outdoors to get your own colorful blossoms.

13-19. Dine al fresco on a patio when the weather’s nice

Springtime weather can be a bit of a gamble in Boston, but later in April and May, you can expect many restaurants to be opening their patios and terraces to the public for some delightful outdoor dining opportunities. You can check out our favorite spots from last year in the meantime, and keep your eyes peeled on your favorite restuarant’s social media pages for the return of patioi seaosn!

20. Tour the hidden gardens of Beacon Hill

Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood hosts a tour once a year of the houses’ gardens, and the Hidden Gardens tour is set to return this year on  May 19 . Whether rain or shine, you’ll have access to see the fabulous private gardens of the Beacon Hill Garden Club, and they’re certainly a sight to behold. Get your tickets and more information about the event  at their website .

21. Visit the MFA during the ‘Art in Bloom’ Event

22-27. take a walk in one of boston’s lovely public parks.

Whether you’re scoping out locations for a picnic or a new jogging path, check out our picks for the best parks in Boston . From Fenway to the South End to the Back Bay, Boston’s green spaces are a perfect backdrop for a springtime walk on a warm day.

28. Catch the Red Sox home opener at Fenway Park

On April 15, our beloved Red Sox make their return to Fenway Park. Whether you’re in the stands or watching at your favorite sports bar , you’ll be sure to have a good time enjoying America’s favorite pastime.

29-33. Take a ride on a scenic bike path

34. visit an outdoor bookstore, 35. stargaze (for free) at bu’s observtory.

If you’ve ever wanted to take a closer look at the night sky above us, look no further than  Public Open Night at Boston University’s Coit Observatory, located on top of the Physics Research Building. Every Wednesday, as long as the weather is clear, BU’s astronomy department hosts the observation nights from 8:30pm during the spring and summer months. You’ll be able to see the night sky and learn about astronomy along the way!

36. Have a tea party inside the Boston Public Library

Did you know that one of the classiest tea rooms in the city is located inside the Boston Public Library? The  Courtyard Tea Room has all the tiny cakes and crumpets that you could desire, and the location is killer too. You can make a reservations  at their website. 

[featured image: Unsplash / Kelly Sikkema]

See also: 6 Fantastic Women-Owned Restaurants To Try Right Now In Boston

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Visiting in the Spring

Spring is a glorious season in the Berkshires, a time of renewal and rejuvenation cast in buttery sunshine. This is the season to rediscover the outdoor beauty of our hills, valleys, lakes, and woods.

Get Outdoors

Laced with hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and verdant fields, there is no better place to welcome the renewal of spring than the Berkshires. Watch the gradual greening of new foliage at one of the myriad forests and parks with a leisurely stroll or the bracing up-and-down of a challenging hiking trail. The breathtaking Bash Bish Falls in Mount Washington are the highest waterfalls in Massachusetts. In Tyringham you’ll be enchanted by Ashintully Gardens , a property of the Trustees of Reservations offering scenic walks through a terraced landscape.

Some call it the mud season, but for the dedicated birdwatcher, a pair of sturdy green Wellies to keep feet dry and binoculars slung around the neck are all the gear needed to enjoy the day. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary  boasts seven miles of trails on their 1,142-acres in Lenox.

One of the sure signs of spring is the appearance of buckets on maple trees just as the last of the snow disappears. Ioka Valley Farm is renowned for their syrup. Each spring, sugar houses across the county open breakfast cafés where you can enjoy fresh maple syrup on a stack of pancakes. Plus you’ll learn all about the making of maple syrup!

Photos: Ogden Gigli

Experience History

In the nineteenth century during the Gilded Age, the natural beauty of the Berkshires attracted city dwellers for idyllic vacations among the lakes and hills. Many of these wealthy visitors built mansions and villas called “cottages” as seasonal retreats.

The Mount , home of Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Edith Wharton, is one such “cottage.” Now beautifully restored, the home is operated as a historic house museum with extraordinary gardens where visitors can enjoy scenic walks and picnics. Ventfort Hall , another example also in Lenox, was built by the Morgan family and is now open to the public. (Both properties periodically offer ghost tours!)

A number of other Berkshire “cottages” have been meticulously renovated and are in use as sumptuous B&Bs, where the luxurious surroundings of a bygone era can be enjoyed alongside modern amenities. Choose an inn that was once part of a sprawling estate, a B&B set in the midst of woods or fields, or select a downtown hotel in walking distance to shopping and restaurants.

Visitors can also harken back to an earlier era when  Hancock Shaker Village  was a thriving agricultural enterprise and spring brought piglets and lambs and chicks to the farm. You won’t want to miss the annual spring celebration of Baby Animals on the Shaker Farm at this living history museum.

Average Temperatures

Not to be missed.

• Baby Animals at Hancock Shaker Village
• Daffodil and Tulip Festival at Naumkeag
• Maple Sugaring at Ioka Valley Farm

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Top Places to Experience Spring Bloom

Discover a locally grown pop of color in every corner of the region. , new england botanic garden at tower hill.

New England’s year-round botanic garden gives visitors a slice of paradise on a beautiful 132-acre property. Offering hundreds of classes, lectures, author events and gardening programs, New England Botanic Garden at  T ower Hill  is an epic adventure. With over 12 gardens and an amazing overlook, watching spring bloom here comes easy. The Daffodil Field is typically the first big splash of color, but you'll find changing gardens and new blossoms throughout spring and summer when you visit this ever-evolving wonderland. 

Broad Meadow Brook

Take a walk through the largest urban wildlife sanctuary in New England, with over 400 acres cooperatively managed and owned by Mass Audubon. Interpretive signs guide you along well-marked trails through the woods, fields streams and marsh. The center also serves as the visitor site for the National Park Service’s Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor. With over 80 species of butterflies, 164 bird species, and 700 plus plant species, Broad Meadow Brook is a unique oasis in the middle of a busy city. 

Purgatory Chasm Trail

Experience spring bloom through the immense granite walls of Purgatory Chasm , a unique natural landmark. As you traverse through the rocky trails of the chasm, check out the hidden caves and rock formations, with such romantic names as The Corn Crib, The Coffin, The Pulpit, Lovers' Leap and Fat Man's Misery. Pet-friendly, with picnic tables, grills and playground on-site.

Wachusett Greenways – Mass Central Rail Trail

Located on the Mass Central Rail Trail, west of the I-190 bridge in Holden,  the Wachusett Greenway offers 19 miles of trails along a 104-mile old railroad line. Beautiful waterways and paths lead hikers and cyclists on an ideal adventure through nature. 

Green Hill Park 

The East Side Trail is a green belt that extends from Cristoforo Columbo Park on Shrewsbury Street to Lake Quinsigamond. The trail covers 3.44 miles and is well-marked. Spending time watching spring approach at Green Hill Park is picturesque. Between the arboretum and wooded paths, Green Hill Park is the go-to park in Worcester. 

Moore State Park

A peaceful 737-acre retreat in the heart of Central Mass., Moore State Park was once the site of grist and saw mills from 1747. Today, Moore State Park houses a historical building foundation, a restored sawmill, ponds, waterfalls and mill chutes. Park recreational opportunities include canoeing, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. From late May through early June, you'll catch rhododendrons and azaleas blooming in Moore State Park, sprinkling spring with local color. 

Cascading Falls Loop

Lookout Rock

Located off a winding country road on the way from Uxbridge to Northbridge, a short hike takes you to Lookout Rock , which overlooks the winding Blackstone River. The landscape offers something new with each season, and is worth a visit to experience spring's bursting colors over a dramatic landscape.

Bringing Blooms Home

Crown & roots farm.

Their serve yourself farm stand is open Friday through Sunday, with the very first tulips popping up among other fresh-cut arragements. Chickens on the farm are laying, so you may also find fresh eggs by the dozen available at the stand. If you haven’t visited the roadside stand before, they are located in Oxford right before 126 Federal Hill Rd. Cash and Venmo  @crownandrootsfarm  are accepted. Get weekly updates on what's available from their Instagram account .

Klem's

Looking to cultivate a spring haven in your yard? Visit Klem's for both seeds and ready to plant flowers, herbs and more. This family-owned department store has much more than plants, so it's a great one-stop shop if you also need garden gloves and a few tools to make the horticulture magic happen.

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New England Wanderlust

Connecticut , Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Spring , Vermont  ·  December 21, 2022

21 Lovely Things To Do In New England In The Spring (2024)

One of the best part of New England is the changing seasons, and while I personally love them all, there’s something very special about the springtime. As the snow begins to melt away, color begins to emerge, birds start to chirp again, and you can feel a new energy of excitement in the air for warmer days ahead.

And while it’s not the most popular time to visit New England, the spring season offers so many fun things to do. Between seeing spring blooms like daffodils, tulips, and cherry blossoms, to fun festivals, and all the seasonal businesses opening their doors back open, it’s actually kind of an exciting time.

This post is all about the very best things to do in New England in the spring to celebrate everything everything coming back to life. And with that, let’s begin!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

Is Spring A Good Time To Visit New England?

The spring season is probably one of the cheapest times to visit New England, and that’s likely because the weather can be pretty iffy in the first part of the season.

Just as spring hits in late March, it still very much feels like winter in many parts of the region. April and May can still bring cold temperatures and even random snow flurries. But there are also lovely, warm days, too. Weather isn’t generally reliable until the end of May/early June, so if you’re looking to visit in the spring before the summer crowds (and prices!) set in, early June is a great time to visit.

That said, I personally love rainy days and have learned to embrace the crazy New England weather in the spring. And with all the very fun events the region has in store for this season, I definitely think it’s worth a visit during this time of the year.

Best Things To Do In New England In The Spring

All across New England in the spring, you’ll find so many events to keep up with that you might even feel overwhelmed! March bring maple harvest season and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, spring flowers begin to emerge in April and May, and then you’ll have your pick of restaurant weeks and food festivals, too.

Below is my list of the best things to do and experience in New England in the spring! I’ve also broken them down by month to more easily plan your itinerary.

Things To Do In March In New England

1. visit a sugar shack.

As mentioned earlier, one of the best things about March in New England is maple harvest season! While there’s often snow on the ground, and ski resorts are still hoppin’, a great activity in March to welcome spring is visiting a real maple sugar shack.

The best states for sugar shacks are New Hampshire and Vermont because they have the most available to visit, but you can also find them in all New England states.

During your visit, you can often sample the different varieties of maple syrups, watch a harvest tapping, and even see a sugar on snow demonstration. Sugar on snow is such a cool thing to experience if you haven’t before. During the demonstration, you’ll see boiled maple syrup dripped onto snow outside, and watch it turn into candy that you can eat as soon as it’s cooled down.

Bonus Suggestion: Make Your Own Sugar On Snow Candy!

The best part of the sugar on snow candy is that you can actually make this on your own! All you need is a candy thermometer, maple syrup and, of course … snow. Then, follow these instructions below:

• Boil about 1 cup of maple syrup until it reaches 235°F (using your thermometer to check the temperature).
• Use a fork or a spoon to drizzle the boiled syrup onto clean snow. If you want to do this inside, you can gather clean snow, and keep it in the freezer until you’re ready to use it.
• Wait for the syrup to cool down, and scrape it off the snow to enjoy!

2. Attend A Maple Festival

Speaking of all things maple, there are a few maple festivals happening all over New England at the end of March, including:

• Massachusetts Maple Weekend
• Vermont Maple Open House Weekend
• Maine Maple Sunday Weekend
• New Hampshire Maple Month
• Hebron Maple Festival (CT)

So many fun things happens during each of these events to celebrate the start of maple harvest season, including maple syrups demonstrations and tastings, sugarhouse tours, craft fairs, food vendors and lots more.

These events typically take place in the second half of March, perfectly coinciding with the official start of spring season, making them an awesome way to kick off warmer days ahead (Even though it may not feel like it quite yet!).

3. Stroll The Spring Bulb Show In Northampton

Since the early 1900’s, the Northampton Spring Bulb Show at Smith College has been a welcomed tradition that signifies the start of warmer days ahead in New England. And in March, the weather outside will likely still be cold and snowy, the inside of the Lyman Conservatory will be one giant pop of color.

Any flower lover will want to attend this event, as you’ll get a chance to stroll through the Conservatory to take in all the beautiful spring flowers like tulips, daffodils, lilies, crocuses, hyacinth and more. Since these bulbs are moved to the greenhouse in January for an earlier than average bloom time, it’s often one of the first places you can see explode with color in New England.

Things To Do In April In New England

4. attend the nantucket daffodil festival.

One of my personal favorite things to do in New England in the spring is attend a daffodil festival because those happen to be one of my absolute favorite flowers 😉

One of the most popular ones is the Nantucket Daffodil Festival , where you can attend a car parade and tailgate, where all the cars are cheerfully decorated with – you guessed it – daffodils. There’s also a wonderful daffodil flower show, and events just for the kiddos at Children’s Beach.

During your time on Nantucket for the festival, you can also head out to Sankaty Lighthouse to see all the daffodils in the surrounding fields, and snap a photo with Brant Point Lighthouse while it adorns its gorgeous daffodil wreath.

5. Pick Your Own Daffodils

Halfinger Farms in Connecticut is a wonderfully fun farm that offer u-pick daffodils! While picking begins in March, early April is usually the best time to visit the farm for more blooms to choose from.

Their daffodil farm, adorably named Dancing Daffodils, is open to pick your own bouquet. And they have gorgeous blooms to pick from that go beyond the standard yellow ones you see in most landscapes. They regularly post updates on when daffodils are ready for picking on their Facebook page here , and be sure to give them a follow so you don’t miss this special time of the year.

6. Attend The Daffodil & Tulip Show At The Naumkeag Estate

For a magical walk around beautifully manicured spring gardens, you’ll want to head to The Berkshires and visit the Naumkeag estate during their wonderful Daffodil & Tulip Show in April.

Located in the charming town of Stockbridge, Naumkeag’s historic mansion and grounds are surrounded by hundreds of colorful daffodils and tulips. Explore the estate’s 8 acres while you admire the cheerful blooms, and get in a few great photo opportunities along the way 😉

During the event, they also have a concessions stand that serves drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), as well as light snacks. The first floor of the historic house is also open during the event, so you’ll get a glimpse inside this gorgeous mansion during your visit!

7. See The Cherry Blossoms

There are some really lovely cherry blossom displays all over New England, and some of the best places to see them are Boston and Wooster Square in New Haven, CT.

Boston is absolutely gorgeous in the spring season, and not only does it have lots of cherry blossom trees to see, but also beautiful magnolia and pear trees that bloom around the same time.

Psst! I have an entire guide on the best places to see cherry blossoms in Boston , if you need some more ideas 😉

In New Haven, they celebrate the arrival of the cherry blossoms with a festival, and while you don’t have to attend the festival to see the cherry blossoms, it’s a very fun event to check out.

During the festival, there are food trucks lined up around the park, as well as live musical performances. But, of course, the star of the show is the cherry blossoms themselves. Each year, their peak season is fleeting, but generally speaking, the end of April in the best time to see them. Fingers crossed you can time your visit at just the right time to see them in all their glory because it’s absolutely worth it!

8. Visit The Bridge Of Flowers When It Opens

One of the most beautiful and unique things to see in New England from spring to summer is the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, MA. And what better time to see it than when it first opens in April? During its opening month, you can expect to see colorful and cheerful daffodils, tulips, hyacinth and wisteria. It’s the perfect way to celebrate spring and get some color in your life after a long winter.

Pro Tip : The town of Shelburne Falls is also lovely, and it’s worth budgeting some time to stroll through. You’ll want to check out Floodwater Brewing Co., the Trolley Museum, and the cute shops.

9. Pick Your Own Tulips

Once Daffodil season is over, it’s time to get excited about all things tulips! And the great news is, there are so many places around New England offering U-Pick tulip events.

One of the best is Wicked Tulips , which has three locations: Johnston, RI, Exeter, RI and Preston, CT. During the month of May, they open their fields for U-Pick events where you can hand-pick your very own cheerful bouquet to take home. The events can vary from year to year, so I highly suggest subscribing to their e-mail newsletters and following them on social media to be the first to know about U-Pick availability.

With Wicked Tulips, it’s important to know that each farm blooms at different times. For example, their Exeter farm usually peaks first in early April, then Preston comes to life in mid-late April, and Johnston is the last to bloom, and is usually open the first part of May. But definitely check their Instagram and e-mail newsletters for each season’s bloom report!

Here are some more awesome U-pick tulip farms to check out:

• Golden Hour Tulips (MA)
• Ferjulian’s Farm (MA)
• Tip Top Tulips (MA

10. Experience The Billings Museum Baby Farm Animal Celebration

The cutest spring celebration in New England definitely goes to Baby Farm Animal Days at Billings Farm in Woodstock, VT.

During the second weekend in April each year, the farm allows visitors to get up and close with all the new additions to their crew, including chicks, baby goats, calves and lambs.

And while all the cute animals are reason enough to visit, Billings Farm is one of the most amazing museums in all of New England. It teaches its visitors all about the importance of responsible agriculture, and the farmland, historic barns and buildings are so special and beautiful.

11. Visit Newport, RI For Daffodil Days

Calling themselves the “Daffiest City in New England,” Newport, RI rings in spring with their very own Daffodil Days celebration, which takes place in April every year. During this time, over a million daffodils bloom around the city and nearby towns, coating the area with a gorgeous and cheerful blanket of yellow!

During the event, not only can you walk around to enjoy the daffodils, but they also have fun events you can attend all month long to celebrate the arrival of the spring season. Join in on events like the Doggie Paw-rade, Sip ‘n Shop Events at the local stores, an Ice Cream Social, special Daffodil Tours, and lots more.

However, my personal favorite part of Daffodil Days in Newport is simply touring all the big daffodil fields. My favorites were at Dunlap-Wheeler Park by Easton Beach, the Cliff Walk, and the gardens at Blithewold Mansion in Bristol.

12. Get In Your Last Few Ski Days

Usually people are shocked to hear that you can ski as late as May in New England’s high peaks, but it’s true! I’m including the end of ski season on the April list, however because not all ski resorts make it until May every year (but some do!). Most plan to end their ski season around mid to late April.

Curious where you can ski through April (and possibly May, depending on the season)? Here’s a sampling of resorts that are open around this time:

• Killington in Vermont
• Jay Peak in Vermont
• Stowe Mountain in Vermont
• Bretton Woods in New Hampshire
• Loon Mountain in New Hampshire
• Wildcat in New Hampshire

13. Walk Through The Magical Daffodil Path At Parsons Reserve

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If you find a day without rain in April, one of the best things to do is plan a magical walk through the daffodil fields at the Parsons Reserve in Dartmouth, MA! And guys, when I say this path is magical, I really mean it. If you can time your visit just right with peak bloom, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a fairytale world.

Peak bloom here typically happens around the third week of April, but as with everything that involved nature, this can vary from year to year. The Parson’s Reserve website does a great job updating you on the status of the daffodils, too, so if you live locally and can visit last-minute, you can track bloom progress here .

Pro Tip: It’s good to note that there is a steep area that you’ll have to walk up to get to the daffodil field, so anyone with mobility limitations will want to plan accordingly.

Things To Do In May In New England

14. attend the boston calling festival.

Calling all music fans! One of the best things to do in New England in May is to attend the Boston Calling Music Festival. Held on Memorial Day Weekend each year, this 3-day festival draws in top acts with 4 stages and over 50 performances during the weekend.

In past years, artists like Eminem, The Decemberists, Jack White, Hozier, Glass Animals, Metallica, Black Pumas and Mumford & Sons have performed.

During the festival, you’ll also find tons of food vendors serving up delicious comfort foods like gourmet grilled cheese, slow-cooked BBQ, specialty cookies, lobster rolls and tons more.

15. Eat All The Oysters & Chowder In Newport

Rhode Island is home to more than 45 oyster farms, and a great way to sample a bunch of them in one place is by attending the Oysters & Chowder festival by heading back to Newport, RI.

Typically held the weekend before Memorial Day, this 2-day event is free for all to attend (of course, food and drink excluded, though), and you’ll find live music and tons of food vendors serving local oysters and hand-crafted chowders. You’ll even find some really great cocktail vendors.

Pro Tip : This is popular springtime festival in New England, and parking in Newport can be tough during the event. A great way to save yourself a headache (and a few bucks!) is to stay in nearby Jamestown, and take the commuter ferry right into downtown Newport. You can choose to get off at Perrotti Park or Ann Street Pier, both of which are easily walkable to Bowen’s Wharf, where the festival is.

If you’d prefer to stay right in charming Newport, I would suggest getting a hotel with parking that’s walkable to Bowen’s Wharf.

16. Celebrate Mother’s Day Around The Region

Mother’s Day weekend in May offers lots of fun ways to celebrate! Whether you’re a mom yourself, or you’re looking for something special to do with your mom or mother figure in your life, there are some great options to consider.

The perfect special spring weekend to plan with your mom or important women in your life is definitely the Pink & Green Weekend in Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard .

This weekend event celebrates the best of spring and Mother’s Day combined in early May, and has lots of fun events that are perfect for spending quality time with your mom, and all the amazing women you love. You’ll find events like carriage rides, special yoga classes, a Kentucky Derby party, special discounts at stores, and luncheons.

And because the event is on an island, it’s exciting just to get there on the ferry! Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy all the beautiful sites around Martha’s Vineyard during the weekend, including the gingerbread cottages, beaches, and the Aquinnah Cliffs.

Boston always offers fun brunch options around the city, including Mother’s Day Brunch Cruises around the harbor. Boston also has some very lovely afternoon tea options that are especially fun, including Silver Dove and The Courtyard Tea Room .

If you moms out there are looking for something extra cute to do with the kids, then you may also want to check out the Duckling Day Parade in Boston. This cute little event takes place on Mother’s Day each year, and when you sign up your kiddos, they get dressed up in their very best duckling costume, and parade around the Common and Public Garden as an homage to the beautiful children’s book Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey. For the last 30 years, this has been a cherished spring tradition in the city!

Things To Do In June In New England

17. enjoy popular destinations before the summer crowds.

June is the last month to enjoy fewer crowds in summer hot spots throughout New England. In fact, one of my favorite months to visit beach towns is June – particularly in early June, right after Memorial Day weekend. You’ll find cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds, but most businesses will be open for the season, and the weather is typically lovely (although, the water will still be pretty cold, so it’s a bit of a trade-off!).

Some great places to visit in June if you’re looking for summer-ish weather, but want to avoid some of the crowds, are Cape Cod and the islands, Coastal Maine, Newport, Narragansett, Mystic, and coastal New Hampshire.

28. See The Famous Maine Lupines

Lupines are a popular flower that bloom in different parts of the world, but here in the northeast, they’re a welcomed late-spring arrival that sprinkled our landscapes in June.

However, there’s something very special about Maine’s lupines, as many of them were planted along the Midcoast by Hilda Hamlin, also known as the “Lupine Lady.” After she moved to Maine from her home country of England, she missed seeing her lupines bloom in the spring. She had seeds sent her to in Maine, and she began to sprinkle them all over the Midcoast, bringing lots of color to the area every June. She continued to do this through the 1980s, too!

Now, Maine is known for having some of the best displays of lupines in New England, but really, you can find them all over. I also especially love the Fort Hill area of Cape Cod for lupine season, as they’ll be backdropped by the beautiful salt marshes.

19. See The First Full WaterFire Lighting In Providence

WaterFire is one of the top attractions in Rhode Island in the summer season, and the first full lighting to kick off the WaterFire season takes place in June every year. While there are some partial lighting events that happen in May, the most exciting events are the ones that showcase a full lighting.

What’s WaterFire, you ask? Well, it’s an innovative art installation made up of over 90 fire braziers in the rivers along Providence’s downtown. During each event, you can enjoy original music, and food and craft vendors. It’s really something everyone should once during their New England travels!

20. Head To Portsmouth For The Market Square Day Festival

Portsmouth is such a charming city in New Hampshire, and in early June, they hold their annual Market Square Day Festival. This fun day originated in 1978 as a way to celebrate the renovation of Market Square, and has continued ever since.

During the 1-day festival, you’ll have the opportunity to browse over 150 vendor booths selling everything from New England-made products, handcrafted goods, specialty foods and so much more. There’s also live entertainment!

21. Celebrate Pride In Provincetown

New England hosts some pretty awesome Pride events throughout June (woo hoo pride month!), but one of the best is definitely in Provincetown, MA. And since Provincetown is located on Cape Cod, you can easily combine it with a shoulder season beach trip.

Provincetown has long been one of the best LGBTQ+ destinations because of its inclusive and empowering community, so Pride celebrations here are most definitely not to be missed.

You’ll find pool parties, Pride rallies, parades, nightclub parties and cabarets, Express Yourself Day and so many other celebrations during Pride Weekend. But the best part? You’re sure to feel the love and support of the local community, which is beyond heartwarming.

Best Places To Visit In New England In The Spring

Nantucket is a great place to visit in the spring, especially if you can time your visit with the Daffodil Festival. Since Nantucket is known as being pretty expensive in the summer, spring is a great time to snatch up some awesome hotel deals, and experience the atmosphere with fewer crowds.

Newport, RI is also wonderful for many of the same reasons. And since they have some amazing events throughout spring like Daffodil Days in April, the Oyster & Chowder Festival, Flower Walks at Blithewold, the Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival, and so many more, you’ll never run out of things to do! Plus, the spring season is a more affordable time to visit.

Woodstock, VT was mentioned earlier in the post because of Baby Farm Animal Days, and that’s honestly enough reason to go! You’ll also enjoy off-season rates during the spring, and the rest of your time, you can wander through one of New England’s most charming towns.

Coastal Maine is an awesome road trip to take in the spring. In fact, one of my all-time favorite New England trips was my coastal Maine lighthouse road trip, which I did in mid-May before all the summer traffic settled in. The weather isn’t too hot, but there were plenty of lovely, sunny days, too. And the trip was less expensive than it would have been in the summer.

Click here to read my perfect Maine lighthouse road trip itinerary!

More of my spring season travel guides:

• Maine In The Spring
• Vermont In The Spring
• Spring In Massachusetts

You may also enjoy reading:

• Best Days Trips In New England
• Most Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
• Best New England Gifts To Buy During Your Trip
• Best Time To Visit New England
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• Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
• 60+ Things To Do In Vermont
• The Most Incredible Lighthouses In New England To Visit

That’s A Wrap On Things To Do In New England In The Spring

While this may not be a popular time to visit, hopefully now you see that New England in the spring is actually beautiful, and packed with tons of exciting events. Whether you’re hoping to pick your own daffodils and tulips, eat your way through restaurant week, or just enjoy the great hotel prices, there are so many wonderful ways to welcome spring in New England.

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Tourist Attractions in Massachusetts You Shouldn’t Miss

Are you planning for a travel tour to Massachusetts? If yes, then it’s certainly a great decision. Massachusetts is an awesome place in New England to visit once in your lifetime. There are several reason and best places to visit Massachusetts solo or with your family. For your tour to Massachusetts it might be useful to know about some of the best tourist places. Stay with us and keep reading to ensure you don’t miss visiting those awesome places in Massachusetts.

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Traveling to Massachusetts in Spring

Winter is almost over, and so is the onslaught of cold and depressing vibes. After spending nearly four months covered in blankets and knitwear, we are finally ready to break free and enjoy the vibrancy that the season of Spring brings. Nature itself, in the spring season, seems to be pandiculating and stretching its arms after a deep slumber. The whirling of trees, whizzing of winds, and the smell of freshly bloomed flowers are just a few of the elements that make the Spring season so pleasant. The season brings out the hidden aesthetic in nature, along with our desire to explore it. This is the season when the state of Massachusetts blooms and has so much to offer that you probably won’t be able to cover in months.

Not to worry, we have compiled a list of top places to visit in Massachusetts if you want to acquire the essence of the spring season in the state. If you are a visitor in Boston or the state of Massachusetts and don’t have your own vehicle consider a family friendly or group travel option using some of the popular Boston car service companies .

Awesome Places To Visit in Massachusetts New England

Sutton hills waterfall campground, williamsburg general store, williamsburg, the bulb river, sandwich, cape cod lavender farm, harwich, onota lake, pittsfield, the adventure park, sandwich.

This magnificent waterfall campground unleashes everything that the season of Spring has to offer. Located at the banks of Aldrich Mill Pond, the Sutton Falls provides one of the best camping areas in town where you can acquire some peace and tranquillity under the star-studded night sky. The facilities available at the camping areas include swimming, fishing, boat rentals, laundry room, pavilion, playground, and more. In fact, it’s one of the awesome places to visit in Massachusetts in spring.

Standing strong for 115 years, this authentic New England country store will take you back in time as soon as you step into it. You can find anything here, including antique objects, to freshly baked goods that would remind you of your childhood. You can hop in this store for a bag of goodies and take in the view of the Spring from their porch.

The bulb river is a river of blooming flowers, literally. It’s also one of the most happening places to visit in Massachusetts in spring. You can find the river, with a purple stream of 35,000 grape hyacinths, by the Heritage Museums and Gardens. The bulbs are meticulously planted in the winters in a way that they form a stream of flowers when they bloom in Spring. Since this river of flowers is only available to be beheld during the end of April and early May, make sure you are visiting Sandwich at that time of the year.

A secluded town surrounded by water from almost all sides, Hull is the place you should visit if you want to experience the beauty that nature has to offer. As soon as the sun comes out, the whole town glitters with the reflection, and it is a sight to behold. Stop here to get a magnificent view of the gleaming waters. You can enjoy the scenery in solitude since springtime Hull lacks all the summer tourists and traffic.

Although Cape Cod is not necessarily known for its farmland, it is one of the most fragrant spring destinations in the state. Stop by the Cape Cod Lavender Farm to experience the blooming and fragrance of purple flowers in a sea of green grass. Moreover, you can buy mesmerizing lavender products from their honor-system shop. You can take private shuttles from Boston to Cape Cod that are both affordable and comfortable.

Covering 617 acres, the Onota Lake is the perfect water body for all your warm-weather activities. You can choose to paddle across the lake in a canoe, or you can swim through yourself and feel the calm and soothing ambiance the lake has to offer. A sunny afternoon spent by the lake can turn out to be one of the best times of your life.

As the name suggests, this park has some adventure to offer for everyone. The park has paths made across treetops, which allow you to swing, climb, or balance your way through them. If you are looking to have some wild times without having to worry about anything, head to this park at Heritage and Museums Gardens. Before heading here, make sure you are dressed in relaxed garments and wearing a sturdy pair of shoes.

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Adventure Travel is a team of travel guides, travel photographer, travel journalist based in Nepal and from the parts of the world. We all in our team enjoy traveling and publishing facts of travel, trekking, and hiking to help travel lovers to find the facts of travel locations, equipment, culture and locality of places and many more. Keep visiting Adventure Travel we have many more updates coming soon for you. Enjoy reading travel advice, viewing photos of all different locations from the world be informed about places to travel in the world.

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June-like warmth to start the week

WARMING UP!

Rain cleared quickly this morning. Skies will average mostly cloudy with some breaks of sun at times today. Highs will reach the 70s in much of southern New England with some beach 60s. The Cape and Islands will be the coolest with patchy fog and clouds most of the morning. A pop up shower is possible this afternoon and early evening, but coverage will be quite limited with most towns and cities remaining dry. Still, keep that slight shower risk in mind during the evening commute in the greater Boston area.

Tuesday is the pick of the entire week. Plan to soak up mostly sunny skies and highs well into the 70s. Highs may hit 80 degrees in a few interior towns. Local sea breezes will keep those beaches in the 60s again.

LATER THIS WEEK

More unsettled weather is on the way Wednesday through Friday. We have a few lows coming through with periods of rain. It won’t rain that whole time, but you’ll need to be ready for a soggy stretch each day. It will also get cooler with highs back in the 50s and 60s. Stay with us for the latest on the timing of the rain and the other impacts you could see this week.

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17 Unforgettable Places to Travel This Spring

Posted: May 5, 2024 | Last updated: May 5, 2024

Spring break offers the promise of a luxurious respite from winter's chill and dreariness, making the perfect reward for surviving the season. And you certainly don't have to be in college or flock to a crowded party town to enjoy spring break—in fact, we encourage quite the opposite. These spring destinations all foster rest and relaxation (but if you want to enjoy adrenaline-pumping water sports or indulge in a few poolside cocktails, we think that's just fine too!). Not to mention, these absolutely stunning properties all boast five-star amenities—from championship golf courses and luxe spas to private safaris and infinity pools. Whether you want to find some French flair in St. Martin, discover a new favorite locale in Central America, or hit the slopes in mild March weather at a favorite ski town , you're sure to find a spring getaway that excites you.

1) Barnsley Resort: Adairsville, GA

If you want to truly unwind, look no further than Barnsley Resort . Nestled on 3,000 acres in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northwest Georgia, you can't help but feel at peace when you hear the birds chirping and see all of the natural beauty around you. While you could certainly spend a long weekend in nature drinking coffee on the porch, walking the resort's trails, riding horses, and playing golf at the Jim Fazio-designed golf course, you should also carve out time to visit the Manor House Ruins and Gardens, eat at the delicious on-property restaurants, and experience the spa's signature bamboo massage.

2) Marquis Los Cabos: Baja California, Mexico

Forget everything you think you know about all-inclusive hotels: Marquis Los Cabos is an adults-only escape that features luxury accommodations, superb dining, and panoramic views of desert mountains and the Sea of Cortes. Spring is the perfect time to go to Mexico, since you'll catch the peak of whale-watching season and it's warm enough outside to enjoy SCUBA diving, sunset cruises, snorkeling, fishing and more.

3) Villa Palopó at Casa Palopó: Soloá, Guatemala

Find a new paradise at Casa Palopó this year, particularly at Villa Palopó, which features three bedrooms, private hot tubs and patios overlooking Lake Atitlan, a fireplace, and access to a private chef and butler. The property is filled with local textiles, furniture, and antiques, and the hotel gives guests back 10% of their nightly rate back in vouchers to support local artisans and shops to benefit the local indigenous community while guests enjoy private excursions to explore the Mayan villages and local volcanoes.

4) Residences at Sonnenalp Hotel: Vail, Colorado

Those looking to ski through The Rockies in sunny spring weather can look to Sonnenalp Hotel 's residential accommodations for stays seven days and longer. Just steps from the hotel and Vail Mountain, these two- to four-bedroom offerings feature spacious gourmet kitchens if you're looking to stay in for meals and offer priority to desired tee times and spa reservations. Sonnenalp offers plenty of private experiences for vacationers as well, from guided hikes to dining. Plus, the idyllic Alpine architecture and feel give a taste of Europe without needing a passport.

5) Rose Hall Villas at Half Moon: Montego Bay, Jamaica

The Rose Hall Villas at Half Moon in Montego Bay are a gorgeous place to get away. Each villa offers between five and seven bedrooms, a living and dining room, a private pool, and features idyllic amenities like 24/7 butler service and a private chef. Half Moon's concierge team will work with you to ensure a memorable vacation by curating private experiences, booking reservations at the property's 10 restaurants and bars, and even delivering your morning cup of coffee.

6) Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas: Placencia, Belize

For the ultimate spring getaway, we have our eyes on Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas in Placencia. The owners of Sirenian Bay also own their own tour company to ensure guests experience everything they want to while in Belize—from private dining on the beach to SCUBA trips and chocolate-making tours. The resort's villas house between two and 14 guests and have an option for a private chef, butler, and special concierge services (think: personal grocery shopping and golf cart rentals) to ensure a lavish stay. There are also bungalow options for solo travelers or couples seeking a more intimate getaway.

7) The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee: Greensboro, GA

Even though it's an easy drive from the Atlanta airport, The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Set along 30 acres of shoreline, this beautiful property features amenities such as a luxe spa, exceptional dining, five championship golf courses, nightly lakeside s'mores, hiking trails, bourbon tastings, fishing, boating, backyard concerts and more. Don't miss the Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival , which runs from March 17-19 this year. The three-day festival highlights wine and spirits from around the world as well as food prepared by some of the best chefs in the region.

8) Oil Nut Bay: Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Virgin Gorda's Oil Nut Bay offers an idyllic place to relax and unwind, thanks to 400 lush acres surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean—plus, a deep focus on preservation and sustainability. Guests can book luxuriously appointed villas that house between two and six bedrooms, all of which feature private pools and outdoor spaces, spectacular water views, and one-of-a-kind amenities and services. From private adventures and excursions to a plethora of wellness programming and the ability to curate customized menus with a private chef, a trip to Oil Nut Bay ensures the spring getaway of your dreams.

9) Mauna Lani Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection: Hawaii

We have our eyes on the Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection on the Big Island this spring, which features two-bedroom residences appointed with private pools, gardens, and jacuzzis. Not to mention, you'll enjoy a designated concierge that takes care of everything, from filling your fridge before arrival to scheduling sunset dinners on the beach. The resort also boasts a world-class restaurant, a permanent GOOP retail experience, private excursions and cultural workshops, and stunning views of the Kohala Coast.

10) Mesa Home at Amangiri: Canyon Point, Utah

Amangiri 's Mesa Home is an absolute haven for wellness seekers looking to enjoy the great outdoors in style this season. This stunning four-bedroom house offers a private swimming pool, courtyard, and terrace with an outdoor dining area—plus all of the fabulous amenities of an Aman Resorts stay. One-of-a-kind private experiences include adventures around The Colorado Plateau, hot-air ballooning across Bryce Canyon, and discovering the Native American heritage of the area. And that's before you encounter the world-famous spa and wellness facilities to recuperate from a day of thrill-seeking!

11) The Shore Club at Long Bay Beach: Turks & Caicos

The Shore Club at Long Bay Beach is one of the island's most luxurious offerings. The club offers spectacular villas with four to six bedrooms—and all the amenities one could dream of. From airport transfers and fully stocked bars to breakfast deliveries and a personal butler to accommodate every need, you're sure to feel like an MVP here. A sister property to The Palms , The Shore Club not only offers spectacular accommodations, but guests also have access to both properties' dining venues.

12) Luxury Tented Suites at Angama Mara: Masaai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

If you're searching for adventure this spring, look no further than the award-winning luxury safari lodge Angama Mara that houses fabulous tented suites. The lodge is located on the same hills where Out of Africa was filmed and fans will recognized many of the breathtaking sights. The property also just launched Angama Safari Camp , an even more secluded luxury option that features a cluster of four tent suites for a multi-generational family trip, featuring a private guide, safari vehicle, and staff. There's something for everyone here, with incredible culinary, cultural, and wellness experiences in between the wildlife spottings and sunset cocktails.

13) Wilderness: Tahoe Vista, California

If you have your sights set on Northern California this spring, relax in the splendor of Lake Tahoe's natural beauty at this idyllic offering from Plum Guide . This five-bedroom home features gorgeous architecture, ample outdoor living spaces, and unparalleled views of the lake. Northern Lake Tahoe is less crowded than the south while still being full of charm, and it makes a lovely place to find respite for a work-cation or unplugged weekend.

14) Pool Villas at La Samanna: St Martin

Luxury in St. Maarten is made easy at La Samanna , a Belmond property that offers glamorous three- and four-bedroom pool villas for a romantic or family getaway. Wraparound terraces, private pools, daily gourmet breakfasts, and private airport transfers are just a few of the many reasons to consider taking a spring break in St. Martin.

15) Soneva Fushi: Kunfunadhoo Island, Maldives

We're dreaming of a trip to Soneva Fushi this season, as it's home to some of the world's finest over-the-water villas, amenities, and experiences. The villas feature retractable roofs for stargazing, catamarans, and an incredible indoor-outdoor living concept that'll have you wanting to stay forever. Soneva Fushi offers private excursions, tours, and activities for anything you could think of, like glassblowing, free diving, historical tours, and sustainable living seminars. And you won't want to miss out on dining at one of the property's acclaimed dining establishments, as every chef has come from a Michelin-starred restaurant.

16) The Henderson Lofts at Henderson Beach Resort: Destin, Florida

If you're looking for the easiest access to jewel-toned waters and white sand beaches, the greater Destin area is the perfect place to land. Destin's premier resort, The Henderson , offers one- and two-bedroom vacation rental options with prime views and sleek kitchens for those looking to stay for a week or longer. There are special offerings for those looking to balance work and play, the budding artist, and even your canine companion. Round out a blissful stay on the Gulf of Mexico with a trip to the exquisite spa facilities and vibrant dining experience inspired by the local cuisine and culture.

17) Lovango Resort & Beach Club: Lovango, U.S. Virgin Islands

Lovango Resort & Beach Club is just a ferry ride or private charter away from St. John and St. Thomas, but it feels worlds away from packed cruise ships full of tourists. This fully sustainable property features villas with private pools, remote beach access, and a private concierge. A sister property to highly acclaimed The Nantucket Hotel + Resort and Winnetu Oceanside Resort on Martha's Vineyard, Lovango is sure to become a hot destination for anyone looking to enjoy private island living at its finest.

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• 7 Breathtaking Towns To Visit In South Carolina

South Carolina is part of the coastal Southeastern region of the United States and shares borders with North Carolina , Georgia , the Atlantic Ocean , and the Savannah River. Home to the Atlantic coastal plain, the Piedmont, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, this state has a diverse range of naturally beautiful landscapes, and, coupled with the rich war and tribal heritage of the area, it becomes a great tourist destination. Those who venture into the small towns in this state will be greeted with a charming mix of natural wonder and historic awakening that will make their trip one to remember for years.

Beaufort , also known as the "Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands," is located in Beaufort County and is the second oldest city in South Carolina. The city’s entire downtown area is designated a National Historic Landmark, with more than 50 architectural wonders lining its streets. Hence, it is the perfect destination for history buffs to explore. Take a self-guided walking tour to discover the pre-Civil War buildings, or head to the Beaufort History Museum, where knowledgeable Docents guide visitors through 450 years of Beaufort’s past and how it shaped America. For a more outdoorsy experience, take a trip to Hunting Island State Park, where tourists can get lost in over five miles of uncrowded beaches and stunning nature trails, and visit the only public lighthouse in the state. The city also offers kayaking and canoeing opportunities, multiple kinds of cruises, and even unique dolphin tours for those who love getting out on the water.

Aiken is the most populous city in Aiken County, South Carolina, and is widely known for its unique equestrian culture, which is full of Southern charm. Start by learning more about this small town at the Aiken County Historical Museum, located in the Winter Colony mansion from 1930, which is home to multiple artifact collections and display materials recounting the county’s past. Then, head to the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum, housed in an old carriage house, to look through photos, trophies, and other memorabilia of flat racers and steeplechase horses dating back to 1942. Have some family fun at the Sprayground splash pad and 14 multipurpose fields in the Citizens Park, or go fishing, canoeing, or kayaking through the woodlands in Aiken State Park. Outdoor enthusiasts should also visit Hitchcock Woods, America’s largest privately owned urban forest, or the public, 14-acre Hopelands Gardens to enjoy some beautiful and relaxing walks. Of course, when in Aiken, check the town’s events calendar and make sure to attend a polo game, a horse show, or one of the popular equestrian festivals.

Georgetown has the second-largest seaport and is the third-oldest town in South Carolina, making it a great vacation destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The Georgetown Museum should be a tourist’s first stop so that they can get to know more about this colonial town through the 300 years of history and heritage that the museum houses. Then, tour the Gullah museum to celebrate the language and culture of Africans who settled in South Carolina during Colonial times. Take a tram tour with Swamp Fox Tours to explore the historic district, or hop on a Cap’N Rod’s Lowcountry water tour to discover the town a different way. Visitors can even rent paddle boats or kayaks to get onto the water on their own. To get a unique experience out in nature, head to the Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center, a group of barrier islands off the coast of Georgetown, which serve as a habitat for abundant wildlife in a preserved environment. In the evening, take a stroll on the harborfront boardwalk to feel the relaxing breeze, or, for the more adventurous, take a ghost tour of the town’s eerie nighttime downtown.

Clemson is a university town, most famous for being home to Clemson University, and is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This city is ideal for those looking to reminisce about the days of their adolescence and get into the college spirit. Roam around the campus to check off notable attractions such as the clock tower on Tillman Hall and its iconic clock tower, the famous Bowman Field, and Fort Hill, the antebellum plantation of former Vice President John C. Calhoun. Then, head to the South Carolina Botanical Garden located nearby, a live 295-acre museum of cultivated landscapes and natural woodlands that features a couple of very rare plants, such as the insect-eating Venus flytrap and Oconee bell wildflowers in the world. For an outdoor experience, take a trip to the 17,500 acres of forestland in Clemson Experimental Forest, where visitors can enjoy up to 100 miles of trails to hike, mountain bike, and horseback ride. Lake Hartwell is also located nearby, which is a popular fishing and relaxing spot. Finish with a show at the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts that hosts world-class professional dance, musical, and theatrical performances year-round.

Landrum is a classic display of the beauty of Southern towns, with the Blue Ridge Mountains as its backdrop and acres of pasture extending across its landscapes. Here, visitors will be sure to find a quiet respite from the hubbub of urban life. Book a stay at The Red Horse Inn, an AAA Four-Diamond bed and breakfast that promises captivating views of the mountains. It has a fireplace installed in every room to provide the perfect retreat experience. Hiking enthusiasts should hop in the Palmetto Trail Blue Wall Passage, a 14-mile trek taking hikers through the town on country roads and sidewalks up to the beautiful Lake Lanier. Discover the town’s past at the train depot on Coleman Street from 1877, which is now a museum and event space that honors the region’s history as well as the life of the Reverend John Landrum. Stop at the only remaining covered bridge in the state, Campbell’s Covered Bridge, to take a commemorative photo. Those who visit this town in the fall months will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking fall foliage and the unique Fox Hunting Season in which this town participates.

York is located just west of Rock Hill and is known as the "White Rose City" after the War of the Roses that took place in the 1400s between the House of Lancaster and the House of York in England. The town boasts one of the largest National Register Historic Districts in the state, spanning over 364 acres, which is a gold mine for history buffs. Head to the Historical Center of York County, located in the McCelvey Center, to discover the town’s heritage and stop at the Southern Revolutionary War Institute to view war exhibits. The McCelvey Cente also houses a 500-seat Lowry Family Theater, which boasts incredible acoustics, and watching the Southern Sound Concert Series there is a must. To dive deeper into the war take a tour of the 778-acre Historic Brattonsville, a living history site that features more than 30 historic structures and also an award-winning Heritage Farm Program to provide a different perspective on the wars. For more historic inspiration, tourists can visit sites such as the Allison Plantation, the Hart House, the Wilson House, or the York County Courthouse. Shopping lovers will find heaven in Yorkville Marketplace, which is a boutique mall featuring a diverse selection of unique fashion items, as well as food, drinks, accessories, and more. Complete the experience of Southern living by touring the freshly grown produce at Black’s Peaches or picking berries at Bush-N-Vine to take home!

Walhalla is located within the Blue Ridge Escarpment, giving the town access to the mountains and numerous waterfalls, which is also why it is nicknamed the “Main Street to the Mountains.” Get the adrenaline pumping by going white water rafting at the National Wild and Scenic Chattooga River, or take a relaxing walk up to the 100-foot tall Issaqueena Falls. To unwind in nature, head to the Sumter National Forest which offers a backwoods camping retreat, some great hiking trails, the Chauga Scenic River to fish in, mountain biking paths, and much more. Dive into the town’s Cherokee history at the Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina with artifacts from Cherokee tribes or discover Oconee heritage at the Oconee Station Historic Site, the Oconee History Museum, and the Oconee Military Museum at Patriots Hall. Catch a show at the Walhalla Performing Arts Center restored school gym that hosts a wide array of performances, plays, and concerts. Those fond of exploring should take a hike along the Blue Ridge Railroad Historic Trail to discover the never-completed railroad track and examine some curious tunnels along the way.

In conclusion, this Southern region of the United States, particularly housed in the state of South Carolina, offers a diverse array of destinations, each with its own unique charm and attraction. From the historic streets of Beaufort and the equestrian culture of Aiken to the pristine natural landscapes of Georgetown and the Southern hospitality of Landru, the towns on this list perfectly encapsulate the spirit of this region. Whether visitors want a tranquil retreat, a gateway to adventure, or a trip down the past, a town in this list is sure to provide all the experiences that a tourist could be looking for. So dive into this rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

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Maps of Two Cicada Broods, Reunited After 221 Years

By Jonathan Corum

This spring, two broods of cicadas will emerge in the Midwest and the Southeast, in their first dual appearance since 1803.

A cicada lays eggs in an apple twig.

“Insects: Their Ways and Means of Living,” by Robert E. Snodgrass, 1930, via the Biodiversity Heritage Library

Brood XIII , the Northern Illinois Brood, hatched and burrowed into the ground 17 years ago, in 2007.

Brood XIX , the Great Southern Brood, hatched in 2011 and has spent 13 years underground, sipping sap from tree roots.

Historic maps adapted from “The Periodical Cicada,” by Charles L. Marlatt, 1907, via the Biodiversity Heritage Library; modern brood maps adapted from Gene Kritsky, Mount St. Joseph University

The entomologist Charles L. Marlatt published a detailed map of Brood XIX , the largest of the 13-year cicada broods, in 1907.

He also mapped the expected emergence of Brood XIII in 1922.

This spring the two broods will surface together, and are expected to cover a similar range.

Up to a trillion cicadas will rise from the warming ground to molt, sing, mate, lay eggs and die.

A Name and a Number

Charles L. Marlatt proposed using Roman numerals to identify the regional groups of 13- and 17-year periodical cicadas, beginning with Brood I in 1893.

A brood can include up to three or four cicada species, all emerging at the same time and singing different songs . Long cicada lifespans of 13 or 17 years spent underground have spawned many theories , and may have evolved to reduce the likelihood of different broods surfacing at the same time.

Large broods might sprawl across a dozen or more states, while a small brood might only span a few counties. Brood VII is the smallest, limited to a small part of New York State and at risk of disappearing.

At least two named broods are thought to have vanished: Brood XXI was last seen in 1870, and Brood XI in 1954.

Not Since the Louisiana Purchase

Brood XIII and Brood XIX will emerge together this year, for the first time in more than two centuries. But only in small patches of Illinois are they likely to come out of the ground in the same place.

Maps adapted from “An Historical Geography of the United States,” 1911, via the Library of Congress

In 1786 and 1790, the two broods burrowed into Native lands, divided by the Mississippi River into nominally Spanish territory and the new nation of the United States.

Brood XIII entered the ground in 1786, and Brood XIX in 1790. (Expected 2024 ranges are overlaid on the map.)

As the ground was warming in April 1803, France sold the rights to the territory of Louisiana, which it acquired from Spain in 1800, to the United States for $15 million.

That spring, Brood XIII and Brood XIX emerged together into a newly enlarged United States.

Their descendants — 13 and 17 generations later — are now poised to return, and will not sing together again until 2245.

A ‘Great Visitation’

After an emergence of Brood X cicadas in 1919, the naturalist Harry A. Allard wrote:

Although the incessant concerts of the periodical cicadas persisting from morning until night became almost disquieting at times, I felt a positive sadness when I realized that the great visitation was over, and there was silence in the world again, and all were dead that had so recently lived and filled the world with noise and movement.

It was almost a painful silence, and I could not but feel that I had lived to witness one of the great events of existence, comparable to the occurrence of a notable eclipse or the invasion of a great comet .

Then again the event marked a definite period in my life, and I could not but wonder how changed would be my surroundings, my experiences, my attitude toward life, should I live to see them occur again seventeen years later.

The transformation of a cicada nymph (1) , into an adult (10) .

“The Periodical Cicada,” by Charles L. Marlatt, 1907, via the Biodiversity Heritage Library

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