28 Hidden Gems in Massachusetts: Fun for All Ages!
I moved to Boston in the fall of 2021 and love finding hidden gems in the city and other parts of Massachusetts.
Sometimes the “gem” is a place I discovered through online research and decided to visit on my own. Other times it’s something I’ve stumbled upon completely at random. (Those are usually my favorites.)
To me, what makes something a “hidden gem” is not necessarily the fact that it’s unknown to the general public. But these things would not typically appear in a “Top 20 Places” post for Massachusetts. You have to dig a little deeper to find out about them. And that’s what makes them so special.
Here is my list of 28 hidden gems in Massachusetts.
28 Hidden Gems in Massachusetts
1. Brattle Book Shop, Boston
One of America’s oldest and largest used bookstores is in the heart of Boston. Brattle Book Shop is close to Boston Common in the Downtown district, featuring a large, iconic pencil on the exterior.
On nice days, the alleyway next to the bookstore is filled with sale book displays where shoppers can browse before going inside.
The bookstore itself is comprised of three stories, the first two being for general books, and the third for rare and antiquarian books. You are sure to find a literary treasure…or two, or three…among the hundreds of bookshelves.
Brattle Book Shop is open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
2. Clover Food Lab, Boston
I randomly found Clover Food Lab during a conference at the Omni Parker House in downtown Boston (an interesting historic sight in its own right). It’s right down the street from the hotel.
Clover Food Lab prides itself on ethical and sustainable coffee bean sourcing, and they often rotate their coffee selections. I ended up going there for their iced coffee two days in a row – it was so good.
They serve much more than coffee though. Check out their menu featuring a variety of sandwiches, platters, soups, and salads, all with thoughtful ingredient sourcing.
While I went to the Clover Food Lab on School Street, they have 8 different locations around Boston and Cambridge.
3. Rouvalis Flowers, Boston
This is the cutest little flower shop I have ever seen, and I always try to visit when I’m in Beacon Hill. Rouvalis Flowers is well-known among locals, many of whom rely on them for seasonal and festive floral arrangements. They have a variety of plants and flowers to choose from.
You can find small treasures in the shop as well, like a mister for your plants, handmade Christmas ornaments, and one-of-a-kind flower pots.
Rouvalis has such old-world charm and is definitely one of Beacon Hill’s treasures.
4. Deer Island, Boston
Deer Island is part of the Boston Harbor Islands park system, but I don’t think many people other than locals know about it.
It is home to the Deer Island Wastewater Treatment Plant that recycles waste from most of Eastern Massachusetts, which is interesting from an environmental perspective.
But what makes Deer Island most attractive are the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Boston Harbor, and Boston skyline as you walk the paved trail around the entire island.
Note that there is a free parking lot by the entrance of Deer Island, but it is small and can fill up quickly. You might be better off going on a weekday or not during peak season to guarantee a spot.
5. Mapparium, Boston
Imagine walking inside a three-story, stained glass globe depicting the world as it appeared in 1935. That’s what you get when you visit the Mapparium, located inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library in Boston.
You can listen to a 10-minute narrated audio clip as you walk from one side of the globe to the other. You’ll hear snippets of history that showcase the state of the world before World War II began.
As you leave the Mapparium, additional exhibits go into more detail about the advancements that have since taken place in human rights, science, exploration, and more.
The Mapparium is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day (except 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday).
Planning a trip to Boston? Check out One Day in Boston: Top 10 Places to See.
6. Madonna Queen of the Universe Shrine, East Boston
An imposing landmark in East Boston, the Madonna Queen of the Universe Shrine was founded in 1954 and is the headquarters of the Don Orione Catholic order in the United States. Regardless of what you think of the shrine itself, the views from the grounds are incredible.
You will have one of the best views of the Boston skyline and Boston Harbor from here, as well as all the runways of Boston Logan International Airport.
I always find it difficult to pull myself away from this lookout point. It’s pretty mesmerizing.
7. Piers Park, East Boston
We stumbled across Piers Park during a walk around East Boston and fell in love with it immediately. The park includes a nice, paved pathway that leads you out into the Boston Harbor with amazing skyline views.
If you have kids, then you’ll also love the large playground and water play area that is fenced in, with really clean restrooms.
There are picnic tables and benches throughout the park, making it a relaxing place to stay for a few hours and take in the city scenery.
8. Constitution Beach, East Boston
Constitution Beach, located in East Boston, is not a traditional beach where you are staring at open water. Rather, you’ll be looking at the runways of Boston Logan International Airport, where you can watch dozens of planes take off each hour.
This is especially fascinating for kids to see, but let’s be real, it’s fun for adults, too. I find myself constantly daydreaming while watching the planes coming in and going out: Where are they headed? What adventures are they going to experience?
There is also a large playground at Constitution Beach, making it a really nice place for families with young children to spend the day. And parking is free! Just try to come early in the day if you plan to visit on a weekend, as spaces can fill up quickly.
Check out my list of other family-friendly beaches in Massachusetts!
9. Belle Isle Marsh Preservation, East Boston
Not far from Constitution Beach is Belle Isle Marsh Preservation, Boston’s last remaining salt marsh. There is a small, free parking lot and a circular trail that leads you around the entire reservation.
Climb to the top of the observation tower for beautiful views of East Boston, Boston Logan Airport, and the waters beyond.
Belle Isle is a great place for bird watching and simply enjoying the sounds of nature away from the bustle of the city.
10. East Boston Farm Stand, East Boston
The family-owned East Boston Farm Stand is the perfect place to stop by for fresh, healthy sandwiches and smoothies while out and about in Boston.
They hand-pick their ingredients every day, which you can tell when you taste their food. I especially recommend one of their smoothies: just pure, natural goodness.
You can also purchase an array of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables from the display boxes inside of the store. Yum!
11. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain
On the south side of Boston, in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood, is a 281-acre preserve called the Arnold Arboretum. The park is run by Harvard University and is part of the Emerald Necklace park system in Boston.
Take some time away from the noise of the city and walk on the expansive trails of the Arboretum. In 2022, Harvard is celebrating 150 years of the park being open.
12. Vivant Vintage, Allston
Vivant Vintage is the brainchild of Justin Pomerleau, who first came up with the idea of selling his thrifted clothes in the streets from a cart he constructed to resemble a tiny house. He was known as Le Pants King and The Traveling Spectacular.
He later transformed his little business into an actual brick and mortar shop, which is the Vivant Vintage store you can visit today. He and his wife Emmy run the shop with the help of their team.
You can find one-of-a-kind treasures from all around the world here.
13. MIT Department of Biology Basement, Cambridge
This one is super random, but my husband took me down to the basement of the MIT Department of Biology once, and I was blown away by all the murals on the walls. You would never think that under the laboratories where cutting-edge scientific discoveries are made, there is this gallery of art.
You will need to get into the building with someone who works in the MIT Department of Biology, so if you don’t know someone, maybe hang out at one of the coffee shops nearby and make a friend. 😉
The MIT campus in general is fascinating to explore, with some of the most unique architecture I’ve ever seen.
14. Castle Rock Park, Marblehead
About 14 miles northeast of Boston is Castle Rock Park in the town of Marblehead. I would have never known about this hidden gem if I hadn’t zoomed in really far in Google Maps when I was looking for new places to explore.
It’s a tiny park located in a residential neighborhood outside of Marblehead’s town center. I accidentally drove by it the first time – it’s that easy to miss.
But once you arrive, the views will absolutely blow you away. A short path will lead you straight to Castle Rock, a giant rock positioned right on the Atlantic Ocean.
You’ll hear the thundering surf crash on the sand and rocks while looking at the stunning Massachusetts shoreline on either side of you, and the endless expanse of ocean in front of you.
I climbed to the top of Castle Rock and sat there for a couple hours just thinking and journaling. This is definitely one of my favorite spots in Massachusetts so far. It’s the perfect place to escape for a little while to let your soul refresh.
15. Shubie’s Marketplace, Marblehead
While in Marblehead, be sure to also swing by Atlantic Avenue and visit Shubie’s Marketplace for a fresh sandwich.
Their Grilled Chicken Caesar is one of their most popular and for good reason. They toast it on fresh focaccia bread with applewood-smoked bacon, and it’s just so so good.
They also have delicious coffee and fresh cannolis that they fill to order.
16. Winthrop Beach, Winthrop
The town of Winthrop is just outside of Boston and is a sweet beach town that feels like it could be miles away from the big city. We came across Winthrop Beach after exploring the famous Revere Beach (America’s first public beach) that’s nearby.
I have to say Winthrop Beach is 10 times better than Revere Beach. It’s much less crowded and has better sand and cleaner water where kids can play.
Parking is free along the beach and you can usually find a spot with no problem. This beach has become one of our favorite places to visit with our toddler, either after a long workday or on the weekend.
17. Hammond Castle, Gloucester
Massachusetts has its very own medieval castle to speak of: Hammond Castle in Gloucester. The former residence of inventor John Hays Hammond, Hammond Castle is an impressive sight to see along Gloucester’s Atlantic coast.
Portions of the castle grounds are free to explore without a ticket, including the arches, look-out point, bell tower, and drawbridge.
Guided tours of the inside of the castle cost $20 for adults ($10 for kids 5-12 and free for kids 4 and under).
Hours vary throughout the year, so check the website for the latest times.
18. Turner’s Seafood, Gloucester
Gloucester is a popular summer destination in Massachusetts, but most people usually turn to its beaches. Might I also suggest a turn to Turner’s? (Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.)
Turner’s Seafood is popular among locals for its fresh seafood that you can purchase. But they also have fish and chips that they fry on the spot for you. It was such a tasty way to end our day in Gloucester.
For more ideas on what to do in Gloucester, see 13 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Gloucester, MA.
19. Keyes Memorial Beach, Hyannis
Cape Cod is known for having some of the best beaches in America, with Coast Guard Beach being probably one of the most well-known ones. (It is definitely worth seeing.) But another beach that doesn’t get the same amount of press is Keyes Memorial Beach in Hyannis.
Our visit to this beach remains one of my most fond memories from our quick trip to Cape Cod. We had just grabbed some Thai takeout and set up our picnic blanket on the grassy knoll near the beach.
It was getting close to sunset and the beach was perfectly peaceful. It’s a really nice place to avoid the big crowds on Cape Cod while still enjoying the ocean views you would expect from this area.
20. Main Street Cafe, Stockbridge
Located inside the old Stockbridge General Store building is Main Street Cafe. They have maintained a lot of the original interior to make the cafe still look like an old general store. When you walk in, you will be greeted by old Americana vibes.
The original general store was made famous in one of Norman Rockwell’s paintings and is a charming way to experience small-town Massachusetts.
Main Street Cafe has a delicious menu of sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts. They are open for breakfast and lunch every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
21. Norman Rockwell Museum, Stockbridge
Speaking of Norman Rockwell, Stockbridge is home to the Norman Rockwell Museum, where you can learn all about this beloved American painter.
I had always found his paintings to be so iconic and nostalgic, but I had no idea how much Rockwell sought to advance civil rights and promote a more diverse and inclusive society through his work. You’ll learn a lot about this at the museum, and you can also tour the grounds and Rockwell’s old studio.
If you bring your bike along, you can even ride the trail he used to take during the 25 years he lived in Stockbridge.
The museum is open every day except Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adult tickets are $20, and children 18 and under can enter for free.
22. The Roost, Northampton
It’s a special thing when you find a coffee shop that you end up thinking about months or even years later. I’ll never forget coming across The Roost in Northampton during a New England fall color tour we were doing.
Their coffee was amazing, and they had a delicious selection of pastries. They also have an extensive breakfast and lunch menu. Since we were there, they expanded to have both indoor and outdoor seating.
The Roost is definitely a must-visit spot if you find yourself in Northampton.
23. Shelburne Falls Coffee Roasters, Shelburne Falls
Another stop during our New England fall color tour was Shelburne Falls Coffee Roasters, nestled right in the foothills of the Berkshires. The owners of the cafe have a passion for artisan coffee and all of their coffee beans are hand roasted.
While you’re there, you might also want to try one of their pastries or hand-dipped chocolate truffles. Mmm.
This cafe is the coziest place to stop for a warm drink before continuing on your fall foliage search.
24. Lynch Park, Beverly
Lynch Park feels like a little hidden oasis along the Atlantic Ocean. The park includes a rose garden, splash pad for kids, 16 acres of walking paths, and a small beach where you can watch the boats coming into and out of Beverly Harbor.
The park is only free to Beverly residents during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day). Parking fees for non-residents are $15 on weekdays and $25 on weekends.
25. Long Hill, Beverly
Not far from Lynch Park are the gardens of Long Hill. The former owners of the estate were expert gardeners and plant specialists, which you’ll see in the mixture of both manicured and naturalistic gardens on site.
The gardens are surrounded by more than 100 acres of woodland with trails that allow for a relaxing walk in nature.
Long Hill often hosts special events such as summer concerts, floral design sessions, and expert garden tours. Check out their current events here.
Tickets for adults cost $10 and for kids 3-12 it’s $5. Long Hill is open every day except Wednesday from April-October.
26. The Children’s Piazza, Peabody
Tucked away in the historic town of Peabody is a children’s play paradise, The Children’s Piazza. What makes this place so special is there is a large area for kids up to age 5 to safely play while parents can sit in the cafe to enjoy snacks, coffee, and smoothies.
It’s a time-out for both parents and kids, which let’s face it, doesn’t happen too often with kids under 5.
The Children’s Piazza is open year-round, including on many bank holidays, so it’s a great option for parents looking for alternative entertainment options for their kids.
27. Brooksby Farm, Peabody
Brooksby Farm is a fun place to take your family any time of the year, especially in the fall. Located in Peabody, you can come here to pick your own apples and purchase pumpkins and other autumn treats. They have a tractor that will transport you to the apple orchard and back.
Stop by the farm store for hot apple cider and cider doughnuts that get rave reviews. Nearby you can also see and feed the farm animals.
The farm is open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
28. Nahant Beach, Nahant
Nahant Beach may very well be “hidden” as parking is limited to residents only in most places. If you want to go for the day, you may be better off parking your car closer to Lynn Beach and biking over to Nahant.
I came across Nahant on a windy winter day and didn’t get out to explore, but I was blown away by the coastal views and vowed to come back again one day.
Though it’s a bit harder to get to, the scenery should make the trip well worth it.
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