If you plan on crashing in Boston for the duration of your Massachusetts stay, this won’t be necessary, but if you’re venturing beyond city limits you’ll need four wheels.
Consult cabbies
Although big city taxi drivers have a harsh reputation, Boston cabbies are notorious for being helpful and cheerful. Ask your driver for tips on where to eat and what to see.
Straight route
When crossing the state, use I-90, Route 2, or Route 9 as a roadmap for your journey – all three highways traverse the entire state. If you’re short on time, stick to I-90 – it’s the fastest.
Bear aware
The Massachusetts countryside is popular haven for black bears. Although the animals rarely bother humans, it’s still a good idea for hikers stick to well-populated paths or to travel in groups of three or more.
Main roads
Unless you have four-wheel drive, stick to the main roads in the Berkshires – many of the smaller streets are both unmarked and unpaved.
Weather advisory
Stay alert and bring an umbrella – weather in coastal New England can turn from bad to worse very quickly, especially in the off-season.
Native Americans
The U.S. as we know it was born when the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock on December 26, 1620, but Native Americans had been living in Massachusetts for about 10,000 years prior to that day.
American history
Much of America’s early history can be traced to Massachusetts – it was here that the pilgrims first landed, the American Revolution began, industrialization started, and the first public parks, schools, and libraries were instated.
Traditional cuisine
Relying on the state’s proximity to the ocean and its many farms, Massachusetts cuisine has historically focused on seafood and dairy products. Traditional favorites include Boston cream pie, clam chowder, baked beans, and hot roast beef sandwiches.
Star chefs
Massachusetts, especially Boston, is a breeding ground for star chefs like Todd English and Emeril Lagasse – keep up to breast with the latest up-and-comers by checking out Yankee Magazine (www.yankeemagazine.com).
Festivals
From art gallery crawls on the South Shore and Mardi-Gras-style street fairs in Salem to Fall foliage festivals and county fairs in the Berkshires, outdoor celebrations are huge in Massachusetts. Search for events by region on the state tourist office website.
Gay rights
Massachusetts was the first state in the union to recognize same-sex marriage, which has been legal since 2004.
