The 4 Best National Parks In Massachusetts

Last modified on January 20th, 2023 at 10:24 am

The Best National parks in Massachusetts – Do you want to discover the beauty that lies within Massachusetts national parks? Luckily here I will break down everything you need to know before your once in a lifetime trip. Keep reading to find out more!

Contents

What is a national park?

Before we start, what is a national park? A national park is an area protected due to its cultural heritage, boasting a variety of wildlife and natural scenery. They are typically known for their stunning landscapes and unique features. The aim of a national park is to preserve the site of natural beauty and benefit from this, without destroying it. The ‘National park service‘ manages 423 national parks across America, in aims of conserving the ‘natural and cultural heritage for the benefit of current and future generations’.

Why visit the national parks in Massachusetts?

Why visit the national parks in Massachusetts? The answer is that Massachusetts hosts a variety of national parks that tell a lot about American history and culture. Explore the birthplace of the 2nd American president at Adams national historic park, or find the site of the Boston tea party at Boston national park! And besides the history, these sites are beautiful and packed with amazing experiences, so it’s fun all round! The national parks in Massachusetts are also great for almost anyone to visit – even if you’re on vacation visiting national parks with grandparents, as there’s a wide range of trails for all levels.

How many national parks in Massachusetts are there?

There are 15 national parks in Massachusetts, which is impressive for it being the 7th smallest state in America! The variety in national parks are vast, so from Blackstone river valley to Minute man historical park, you can’t go wrong with the national parks in Massachusetts.

The best accommodation when visiting the national parks in Massachusetts

When visiting some of the best national parks in Massachusetts, it means the accommodation has to live up to that too! Here are the most convenient, best priced and cosy accommodations in Massachusetts.

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The Godfrey Boston Hotel

The Godfrey Boston hotel is not only 4 star rated, but it’s also located just a 3 minute walk from Boston historic national park! The interiors boast a dreamy and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for rewinding after a whole day of exploring Boston’s national parks and public gardens. The quirky restaurant serves up amazing American cuisine, and there’s an excellent wellness centre with a fully equipped gym. Click here to book.

Concords Colonial Inn

Concords Colonial inn is situated just under a mile away from Minute man national park! Concords inn is just so cosy, fit with luxurious beds and a cosy lounge area. There are two restaurants on site, Liberty and Merchants row, which offer delicious American cuisine to but you in the Boston spirit. Enjoy amazing service without travelling for ages to find the national parks in Massachusetts. Click here to find out more.

Breakwater Hotel

Breakwater hotel is just a 10 minute drive from Cape Cod national seashore, so it’s extra convenient for a stop off! This charming little accommodation really has a beach vibe to put you in the mood for exploring the shores of Cape cod. In fact, just opposite the hotel is Provincetown harbour beach. The bay views from the window are incredible, especially from the sun deck. So lounge in a comfy bed, catch the sun and enjoy a perfect beach stay at Breakwater. Click here to find out more.

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Quincy/ Boston

Howard Johnson is located just a ten minute walk to Adams national historical park, one of the most recognised national parks in Massachusetts. As well as this, the location is great, with travel links nearby, as well as a variety of cafes and diners, including Starbucks and Rozafa Mediterranean Bistro. This hotel has a modern furnishing and of course extra comfy beds, perfect for a day of being on your feet! So with great services and excellent convenience, Howard Johnson is the way to go. Click here to find out more.

Essential packing list when visiting the national parks in Massachusetts

What to pack for visiting the national parks in Massachusetts? Holidays can be hard with everything to remember, but now you don’t have to worry. Simply read on!

Picnic bag

Within the national parks of Massachusetts, there are usually lovely picnic stops out on the grass to enjoy. Picnic bags are so convenient for flasks, containers and cutlery to be easily stored and packed, so you can enjoy a great picnic without any hassle. A bag like this is perfect.

Sun cream

There’s a lot of exposure out in the great outdoors of Massachusetts. Make sure to slap on the factor 50 and stay protected! I always use Banana Boat because it is non-greasy and smells AMAZING!

Bug cream/spray

To prevent from bug bites, it’s best to keep a bug spray on hand. This will ensure your arms and legs are pain free and non itchy. Click here to find the most effective creams and sprays.

Lip balm

Especially in the harsh desert weathers, your lips are prone to becoming dry and cracked. Keep a lip balm or a good old pot of vaseline on hand so you never get that uncomfortable feeling for more.

Hiking boots

Hiking boots are essential for the amount of walking that you’ll be doing! Make sure your shoes are comfortable and appropriate, and then you’ll be ready to go! I have always found Bergaus boots to be the most comfortable and durable!

The best national parks in Massachusetts

Here are the best national parks in Massachusetts. With such an amazing variety it was hard to narrow down, however here are the most scenic, unique and sustainable national parks in Massachusetts.

Cape cod national seashore

Cape cod is one of the best national parks in Massachusetts, housing a particularly polished beach. This stunning shore stretches just over forty miles, filled with marshes, ponds, and a huge variety of wildlife. However don’t search for the sharks! You will be able to swim on the beautiful coast with lifeguards on duty, just make sure to stay close to land.

You can engage in ranger guided activities like trails, discovering historic buildings, and seeing the ponds and salt marshes up close. Throughout this you will learn the ecology of Cape cod, the maritime history, arts, literature and so much more. So if you’re wanting a day of hikes, beach walks, sunsets and wildlife, Cape cod is one of the best national parks in Massachusetts to go for!

Minute man

Minute man national park is one of the best national parks in Massachusetts for preserving American history. It protects the site that once was saw the very first battle of the American revolution in 1775. There are 11 ‘watch-houses’ on the site, telling of local families and soldiers, with much to explore and engage in. Around the site are the different places of the battle site, from Concords north Bridge where it all began, to Fiske hill, the forest where British soldiers spilled over the crest of Fiske.

There are always events happening, so its great to join in on the fun. An upcoming event is “The Terrific Array of War”, which is a hike from Nelson Farm To Fiske Hill. This is great for seeing all the site had to offer, whilst being guided through essentially the whole battle! So, Minute man is definitely one of the best national parks in Massachusetts.

Blackstone river valley

Blackstone river valley is definitely one of the most eye opening and best national parks in Massachusetts. Blackstone led America into the industrial world, and without it, it would never be the same! You can explore the site through guided tours of the Slater Mill, where you can learn the significance of the Mill and discover how it revolutionised America.

On a Thursday evening you can join in on a ‘Ranger walkabout’ to explore and hear the stories of the beautiful Blackstone river valley whilst catching the sunset. So with history, views and strolls, Blackstone is one of the best national parks in Massachusetts.

Boston national park

Boston national park is amazing because of its huge scale and areas of interest, which definitely puts it on the list with the best national parks in Massachusetts. If you’re looking for a view, Bunker Hill monument is where to go. This amazing replicated structure stands at 221 feet, marked as the legacy of the soldiers who fought on Bunker hill, a truly beautiful site. Climb the 294 steps and gaze at the Boston skyline, which is definitely one to remember!

You can explore Boston state house or The Great hall, where there have been meetings over 275 years, including suffragists, abolitionists and labour unionists, and meetings even go on today! Boston national park is definitely a site of wonder, brilliant architecture, beauty and legacy, making it all round amazing!

New England national scenic trail

The New England scenic trail is definitely one of the best national parks in Massachusetts for beautiful landscapes. The site stretches 215 miles, so there is plenty of routes to choose from, all unique and gorgeous. You can pick up a New England trail and map guide, with 20 hikes for all abilities. Explore the trails, bursting with colour and life, sure to brighten your time in Massachusetts. Saving bet till last, the New England scenic trail just had to be included on the best national parks in Massachusetts, so its definitely worth a visit!

The Best National Parks In Massachusetts- further reading

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