Ten Places to Go When in Massachusetts for the First Time

Massachusetts is one of the oldest states in the Union. Known as the Bay State - it is overflowing with history, outdoor and sport activities, music and entertainment, and a confluence of ethnic groups and foods. When visiting Massachusetts, no on can hope to see it all. The historic value of Massachusetts is a state wholly without competition. Here are ten ideas to get you started as you make a first trip to the Bay State. Just remember, you can always go back.

1) Faneuil Hall - also called Quincy Hall Market in Boston - 250 years old, Faneuil Hall is a historic entrance to the Boston lifestyle. A truly American experience. Here, you will walk with history.

2) Cape Cod Beaches- There are 15 beaches on Cape Cop -all beautiful, sandy, and looking out on the forever endless Atlantic Ocean.

3) MIT Museum - Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts: The works of Harold Edgerton and Arthur Granson are the two largest displays. Collections of holography, artificial intelligence, and robotics are exhibited.

4) Lexington and Concord: The "shot heard round the world" is a historical adventure worth reliving time and again. The echoes of Paul Revere's words still ring.

5) Plimouth Mansion, Plymouth, Massachusetts: a great family getaway, and a chance to do some whale watching, too.

6) The Salem Witch Museum - Salem, Massachusetts: Relive the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Massachusetts residents feel this was one of the most terrible occurrences in their history.

7) Avalon in Boston, Massachusetts: This is one of Boston's favorite dance spots. Alternative rock and Electronica is featured.

8) Estoril Restaurant in Fall River, Massachusetts: A five-star restaurant that specializes in genuine Portuguese cuisine. Travelers and residents alike rate this restaurant with great reviews.

9) The Freedom Trail in Boston, Massachusetts: Freedom trail encompasses 16 historical sites including Boston National Park sites.

10) Waschusett Mountain, Princeton, Massachusetts: Nicknamed "By the Great Hill" this ski and hiking resort mountaintop reaches to 2006 feet.

These ten places were chosen as an eclectic mixture of history, restaurants, music, and outdoor activity. They were chosen, not so much with the idea of a traveler going to each one. That would be impossible. But, chosen, to give the visitor a sense of the true mix of things to do in this great state. Massachusetts has produced some of America's greatest moments and great individuals. From the Boston Tea Party to a man named John F. Kennedy, Massachusetts soil has brought the best to our country.