National Parks


Massachusetts offers a vast variety of national parks. Guests can choose between viewing historical sites, observing educational and interpretive programs, or taking advantage of the many walking trails, camping, fishing, and other events and experiences offered at the parks.

For the history buff, Adams National Historical Park is as excellent choice. Park guests can visit the birthplace of John Adams and John Quincy Adams. The historical home and other buildings provide a glimpse into the personal lives of this prestigious family. The park offers educational and interpretive programs for guests to enjoy. Guests will also want to stop at the John F. Kennedy National Historic Site which marks the birthplace and childhood home of the thirty-fifth president of the United States of America.

The Boston National Historical Park offers families a true hike through history. The park features eight impressive historical sites located in Boston. Seven of the sites are located on a two and one-half mile hike that is referred to as Freedom Trial. The park hosts special events in April, June and at the Fourth of July. The park events commemorate significant historical events in United States history. The USS Constitution Museum, Old South Meeting House, Old State House, and the Paul Revere House are just part of the unique historical sites located on the Freedom Trial.

Minute Men National Park has preserved sites and structures that were associated with the opening battles of the American Revolutionary War. Guests can relive the sights and scenes of the beginning of the war. The four mile strip of the opening battle and the Concorde Bridge are among the preserved sites of the park.

The Boston Harbor Islands are thirty-four islands located in the Boston Harbor. Visitors to the area can tour historical structures located on the islands and stroll down the peaceful, scenic walking trails. The islands offer an educational environment along with the serene slower pace of times gone by.

If the ocean beckons, tourists will find historical sites and parks that will answer the call of the sea. A stop at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site will give insight to maritime history. New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park explains and demonstrates the impact of the whaling industry on early American history. At the Cape Cod National Seashore, visitors can take advantage of the forty mile long coastal reserve. Educational programs, fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping, are only part of the activities that can be enjoyed in addition to simply absorbing the fantastic views.

Massachusetts offers many other parks including Lowell National Park and Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site. These historical sites give visitors insight into the Industrial Revolution of the United States. Both historical sites offer educational and interpretive programs for the enjoyment and education of the guests.

The beautiful scenery of the state is the perfect backdrop for the Appalachian National Scenic Trial. The trial has breath taking scenes and views. The hiking and camping will provide tourists with countless opportunities. Numerous waterways in Massachusetts are protected and preserved for the enjoyment of the public. Many historical sites and events are associated with these waterways.

The National Parks of Massachusetts offer its guests breathe taking views, educational experiences, and simple relaxation. A visitor to any of the parks will carry away lifelong memories of the experiences gained during a visit.