7 Most Comfortable Massachusetts Towns For Seniors For 2025
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is one of America's most distinct states. The 6th state in the Union is filled with incredible history, breathtaking beauty, and friendly people. Perhaps best of all, "The Bay State" is filled with wonderful towns. Each town offers its own special blend of charm that makes for an experience you are bound to remember for a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready for a great getaway!
Yarmouth
Founded in 1639, Yarmouth is one of the oldest towns in Cape Cod. Thankfully, this beautiful town of just under 23,800 people has maintained much of its old-world charm. For a unique look into the seaside town's rich history, pay a visit to the Whydah Pirate Museum. While inside the museum, visitors can view the only pirate ship ever found. For an experience that won't shiver your timbers, take a relaxing walk along the white sandy shores of Seagull Beach. To view some of Yarmouth's natural beauty, take a stroll along the Bass Hole Boardwalk, which stretches out over a salt marsh. Getting to Yarmouth is a snap thanks to the Cape Cod Gateway Airport that offers flights to and from major centers like Boston, Massachusetts, New York City, Washington, DC, Chicago, Illinois, and more! While in town, grab a bite at The Skipper Chowder House for some tasty Yarmouth cuisine.
Concord
The charming town of Concord is steeped in history! The town was at one point the epicenter of the American Revolutionary War. Yet in the time since, Concord became a literary haven for the likes of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Louisa May Alcott, and Nathaniel Hawthorne. While in town, you can pay a visit to the Old Manse, the former home of both Emerson and Hawthorne, at various points. Next, you can walk over to the historic Old North Bridge. Originally built in 1775, this piece of Concord's history was rebuilt in 2005 using the original 1775 plans. If you get peckish, make sure to stop by Main Street's Market & Cafe. This town staple has been feeding hungry patrons for more than 100 years!
To enjoy some of the town's natural scenery, pay a visit to the famed Walden Pond State Reservation for a picnic or walk along the waterfront. For those who enjoy a bit of "spooky" history, Concord is home to the famous Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. It may shock you to know that the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is one of the most popular places in Concord. Since 1849, people have been dying to get in. Should any medical needs arise while you're in town, the Emerson Hospital Main Campus is fully staffed. The town of Concord is only about a 45-minute drive from Boston, where you will also find the Boston Logan International Airport.
Northampton
Founded in 1653, the city of Northampton was once called "The Paradise of America". All it will take is a stroll through Historic Northampton to see why that name still holds true. The town boasts a unique blend of historic buildings and natural beauty, much of which is showcased at the Frank Newhall Look Memorial Park, also known as Look Park. Spread across a sprawling 150-plus acres, Look Park offers the chance to play mini golf, take a walk around Willow Lake, or just enjoy a picnic. To see a different type of beauty, pay a visit to the R. Michelson Art Gallery, the largest commercial art gallery in western MA. Northampton is about an hour's drive from the Bradley International Airport in nearby Windsor Locks, Connecticut. With a population of just 29,571, you'll never feel too crowded when paying a visit to the Botanic Garden at Smith College or while grabbing a bite at Fitzwilly's Restaurant and Bar.
Amherst
About 22 miles (35 km) north of the city of Springfield, Massachusetts, you'll find the city of Amherst. Founded in 1759, the city is currently home to around 32,263 people. This welcoming community is situated in what is known as the "Knowledge Corridor" of the United States. A simple stroll through town will show you exactly why that is. The Town of Amherst is home to the Emily Dickinson Museum, which resides in the famous poet's former home. While inside, visitors can get a great insight into the lives of Amherst residents in the 1850s. For those who want to step back in time, as in a few million years back in time, make sure to stop by the Amherst College Museum of Natural History. Inside the fun for all ages facility, you can learn about the incredible dinosaurs that once called the land home.
To learn about the history of the city of The Town of Amherst, you can stop into the Amherst Historical Society. And by the way, you read that correctly! Despite being officially named The Town of Amherst, it is in fact considered a city under state law. And inside this city, you'll find Johnny's Tavern. The local eatery combines hearty food with an inviting atmosphere. For those looking to fly in, the closest major airport can be found in Windsor Locks. The Bradley International Airport runs daily service and is only about an hour from Amherst.
Lexington
The town of Lexington, Massachusetts, is currently home to about 34,454 people. But there is always room for more. The Inn at Hastings Park features an award-winning bistro and luxurious boutique-style rooms. For those who want to literally walk in the footsteps of history, pay a visit to the Hancock-Clark House. It was within these very walls that John Hancock and Samual Adams slept before being awoken by Paul Revere, who famously told them "the British are coming!" To continue your stroll through the past, you can pay a visit to The Lexington Battle Green, site of the first battles of the American Revolutionary War. Nearby, you'll also find the recreation of the Old Belfry that was used to warn the town of incoming danger. The town's medical needs are met by the Lahey Hospital & Medical Center. One of the best things about Lexington is that it's just ten miles (16 km) from Downtown Boston. Lexington is a perfect quick getaway, while still being very close to the big city and the Boston Logan International Airport.
Hingham
Hingham, Massachusetts, is a town with a real "hidden gem" feel to it. The community of 24,284 has a wonderful blend of natural beauty, walkability, and history. A great example of the town's beautiful scenery can be found at the World's End. Not to be confused with the 2013 film of the same name starring Simon Pegg, World's End is a 251-acre park and conservation area within Hingham. The Bare Cove Fire Museum offers the chance to look back at the town's firefighting past. Inside, visitors will get to see a trio of vintage fire trucks that inspire kids of all ages. The Derby Street Shops shopping complex offers a wide variety of stores to suit all of your shopping needs. Buy something for your friends back home or spoil yourself! (It's our secret) Hingham is nestled along the famed Boston Harbor. This idyllic town is only about 12 miles (19 km) from Boston. While in Hingham, make sure to grab a bite at Stars on Hingham Harbor; your taste buds will thank you!
Marblehead
Nestled along Massachusetts Bay is the quiet seaside town of Marblehead. This unique community is a great place to visit and explore. The Landing Restaurant is a long-time local favorite that has a mouth-watering rotating menu featuring some of the area's best seafood. One of the best things about Marblehead is its spectacular views of the water. These views can be especially enjoyed while having a picnic at Chandler Hovey Park. Situated inside the park, you'll find The Marblehead Light, which is one of only two such light towers in the United States. (the other being found in Coney Island, in New York City). Built in 1835, the Marblehead Light started its life as a traditional lighthouse before being replaced with its current tower 60 years later. The town's motto is "Where History Comes Alive". A relaxing stroll through the Historic Downtown or to Fort Sewell, built in 1644, is an example of the town's amazing history. For those looking for a place to stay while in town, The Harbor Light Inn offers comfy and affordable rooms. The town of Marblehead is just around 40 minutes from Boston Logan International Airport.
No matter what you are looking for, Massachusetts has something for you. Each small town or city offers great food, laid-back vibes, and plenty to do. With so many things to do in the Pilgrim State, the only limit, for the most part, is your imagination. While in the state, you can spend time on the water, among the trees, or enjoying a fine dining experience. All you need to visit these towns is a sense of adventure!
