2 Massachusetts Spots Named America’s Favorite Resorts

From picturesque beachfront getaways to enchanting mountain retreats, the U.S. is home to many exceptional resorts. Resorts in the U.S. often have an array of unique features that set them apart from ordinary accommodations. Their prime locations are often breathtaking, whether nestled in forests, overlooking lakes, or on beaches. Many resorts in the U.S. offer a wide range of amenities and activities within their premises. From spas, pools, and gourmet dining experiences to thrilling water sports, golf courses, and guided excursions. These resorts ensure there is something for everyone.

Travel + Leisure revealed the best travel destinations and organizations globally in their 2023 World's Best Awards reader survey. This 28th edition of the awards highlights the top players in the travel industry, including the best U.S. resorts. This year, Travel + Leisure readers voted for their favorite properties in various destinations, from Aspen's slopes to Nantucket's beaches.

Each year, as part of the World's Best Awards survey, the travel site invites readers to participate by sharing their travel experiences from all corners of the world. They voice their opinions on the finest hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Over 685,000 votes were cast, covering more than 8,500 distinct properties, including hotels, cities, and cruise lines, among others. They categorized hotels as resort hotels, city hotels, or safari lodges based on their location and amenities. These properties were evaluated on various criteria, such as rooms/facilities, location, service, food, and value.

Securing the 10th position is The Wauwinet, located on the northeast shore of Nantucket. It has a reader score of 97.20 out of 100. This charming boutique oceanfront hotel stands out for its warm and inviting nautical-themed rooms, suites, and standalone cottages, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a perfect summer retreat and individuals searching for tranquility. One reader shared, “I could write a book, read a book, and not be affected by the rest of the bustling island.”

At number 11 is the Candleberry Inn, scoring a 97.19 from readers. The travel website highlights it as a go-to for whale watching, lighthouse visits, and the best dinner on Cape Cod. One reader said the owners “go above and beyond to accommodate and ensure a careful memorable stay.”

Take a look at the full list of the best U.S. resorts here.

In New England, it's confusing enough to know when you pronounce a "R" in a name and when you don't. Luckily, in these unique Massachusetts town names you won't have that problem. They are all straightforward in their spelling, and result in a chuckle.

Many of these locations are spread in rural parts of the state. Even those born and raised here may have never known they existed. The common thread between them results in two questions. Why? And, who got to select this name?

Whether we are talking about a two-state description or a 700 household community nuzzled into a larger town, there is no shortage of creativity here. Massachusetts is well-known for its wide array of Universities. In addition, we experience all four seasons to the fullest. The state is filled with passionate sports fans that stand behind five professional teams. Furthermore, there is deep history tied to very formative years of the country. From Pilgrims to Mayflowers to Rocks. Yet, none of those elements seem to factor into the naming of these municipalities.

The Bay State is certainly filled with culture. There are islands (including Five Pound Island). A Cape Cod town that combines Barn and Stable. Not to be forgotten is a coastal hamlet called Cow Yard While it was hard to pass by Second Cliff, Third Cliff and Fourth Cliff (all individual areas), here are five of the most unique Massachusetts town names.

Located in the northern corner of Berkshire County, Florida this is the highest point of the Mohawk trail. It has one school that serves Kindergarten through eighth grade. It is one of the smallest towns in the state, 337th out of 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts.

Technically, Weweantic is census-designated place within Wareham in Plymouth, County. However, residents typically say they live in "Weweantic". The 730 households consist of a population around 1,500 people. There's also the Weweantic River, which claims to mean a crooked or wandering stream.

Located in Hampden County, Dingley Dell is only about 15 miles from Northern Connecticut. It's south central Massachusetts. There is a large conservation area and waterfall nearby. History books have shown there was a country resort in the early years of the twentieth century in Dingley Dell.

The City of Wyoming is located in Middlesex County and often referred to as part of the larger Melrose community. There is a MBTA Commuter Rail station in Wyoming Square. The name "Wyoming" can be traced back to being affiliated with big plains or prairie land. Fun fact - there is also a Wyoming in Kent County, Michigan that holds a population of roughly 76,000 people.

Although Braintree is known as a town, it is technically considered a city. It is located within the eastern portion of Norfolk County. It is named after the Essex county town of Braintree in Eastern England. It is the largest of the unique names covering 14.6 square miles. There are six elementary schools, two middles schools, and a high school in Braintree.