Must-Do Massachusetts Summer Activities
You did it! You survived fourteen months of being stuck inside and with lockdown finally over we know you’re ready to go out and explore, see your friends and family and just plain get out of the house. So, pack up the family and start your adventures with this list of Must-do Massachusetts Summer activities.
Celebrate your freedom at Boston Harborfest
With hundreds of activities over the week of July 4th, you’re sure to find something for everyone in the family to enjoy. One of the country’s largest celebrations, this is a Massachusetts Summer activity that can’t be missed. Featuring live historical reenactments, live music, boat tours, fireworks, historical walking tours and so much more. For a full schedule lineup check out Boston Harborfest . You’ll also be within walking distance of historical Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, which is definitely worth a visit.
Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival
Don’t miss the 125th year of this event getting “back to the beach” after having to cancel last year. This year’s festival will run August 6th through 8th and in addition to the sculptures, there will also be food truck village, Live music, amusement rides, exhibitors and more. The annual event, hosted by the Revere Beach Partnership, draws over a million people and it’s the largest free event in Massachusetts.
Enjoy fresh seafood at Woodman’s of Essex
If summer is here, it’s time for a trip to Woodman’s. At first sight, this rustic dining room may look familiar as it was used in the movie “Grownups” and there’s plenty of memorabilia to remind you. Voted “Best Seafood in America” by Forbes FYI magazine. Delight in some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever have, grab a sundae from the ice cream stand and enjoy your surroundings as you sit outside by the wildlife refuge (indoor dining is also available). This an absolute Must-Do Summer activity.
Stay cool at Water Wiz Water Park
The largest water park in southern new England, Water Wiz is local staple. This writer can’t even tell you the number of summer’s I enjoyed the sweet sound of my thighs getting stuck to a water slide or how many birthdays were celebrated there. Located in East Wareham, the water park is made up of curved slides, speed slides, a lazy river, a wave pool and Captain Kid’s Island, the Pirate Plunge and Harpoon Lagoon. Once you’re ready for some on land activities, check out the bumper cars and 18-hole mini golf.
Take a Whale Watch out of Gloucester
If you’ve never been on a whale watch, this is the year. Make a visit to Gloucester, hop on a boat and head out into the Atlantic Ocean for an unparalleled experience. Seeing whales in the wild is sure to please everyone young to old. Make sure you’ve got your camera ready! You’ve got a few options with Cape Ann Whale Watch, 7Seas Whale Watch or Captain Bill and Sons Whale Watching and Deep Sea Fishing. Be sure to book in advance, trips sell out quickly.
Visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum
The New Bedford Whaling Museum, located on the port of New Bedford, it pays homage to the city’s long legacy of whaling and fishing. Founded in 1903, the museum offers countless exhibits, collections of historical documents, artifacts, books and photographs, folk art, scrimshaw and so much more. This could also be a Must-Do Massachusetts Summer activity for day camps, as they welcome field trips and classroom tools for educators.
Explore the Brimfield Antiques and Collectibles Show
The annual Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles Show typically arrives in Brimfield 3 times a year, but due to Covid-19 2021 will feature just July and September. That just means better finds! There is literally something for everyone, we can’t even list everything here. This family friendly large scale yard sale type setup will be a day well spent. Just be sure to leave room in the car for your purchases.
Enjoy the Lowell Summer Music Series
After being forced to take the summer off last year, the Lowell Summer Music Series is back for 2021. Although the usual June start has been pushed to August, this music lovers event is not to be missed. Get your tickets in advance for this Must Do Summer Activity because they’re sure to sell out with a lineup like this…Los Lobos, Kenny Wayne Shepard, New England Film Orchestra, Ani Defranco and more will all grace the stage.
Welcome back The Big E
Each September, The Big E hits West Springfield, Mass with vendors, live music, agriculture, livestock competitions, a circus spectacular, parades and other crowd pleasing events. It may be a bit of a drive, depending on where you are, but this old time festival is a Must Do Summer Activity. Plan on spending the entire day and leave smelling like sweat and cotton candy. Put this one on the calendar!
Visit Six Flags New England
Nothing says summertime more than amusement parks and we’re lucky to have Six Flags New England less than a tank away. With any kind of ride you can think of, the park also has the Hurricane Harbor water park for the kids to cool off after a long day of having fun or rent a cabana and make a day of it. Visit the Six Flags website for more info and to purchase tickets in advance.
Step back in time in Salem
Salem has so many interesting and historically relevant places to visit, we simply can’t list them all here. Of course, most well known for the Salem Witch Trials you can visit the spots where victims were hanged. Make a stop at the Witch House, Salem Witch Museum and House of the Seven Gables. This walking town offers loads of dining, shopping, free attractions, guided tours and rich American history. To plan your day out, check out Destination Salem.
Whatever you end up doing this Summer, make it a safe and fun one!
