Five Highlights in the Bay State

Home to six national historical parks, three national scenic trails, seven national historic sites, a national recreation area and a national seashore, Massachusetts has something for both history buffs and outdoorsy types. Here are a few of the highlights.

Cape Cod Outer Beach

Detailed by Thoreau in the 1800s, the protected Outer Beach of Cape Cod is set within a national seashore comprised of pristine, sandy beaches, along with ponds, marshes and uplands.

Frederick Law Olmstead

Honoring the American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead, this national historic site delves into the visionary’s design ideals, philosophy and legacy.

John F. Kennedy Birthplace

A national historic site, the birthplace of John F. Kennedy was recreated to showcase the former president’s early life, ideas and principles.

Salem Maritime

The nation’s first national historic site, Salem Maritime park preserves and interprets over 600 years of New England’s maritime history in 12 historic structures, set along the Salem waterfront.

Minute Man National Historical Park

Minute Man National Historical Park is the site of the opening battle of the Revolution, offering a chance to explore the battlefields and structures associated with April 19, 1775.

Marblehead Neck

Todd Kent