9 Playfully Peculiar Towns In Massachusetts
From the eye-catching landscapes of Cape Cod to the mesmerizing structures of New England and the breathtaking vistas of the Berkshire Mountains, “The Bay State” is an excellent destination to explore. Paired with legendary Boston landmarks and prestigious sports events, you will be in for a real treat. However, there are many towns offering their own quirks and specific characteristics that will make you raise an eyebrow. From Leominster to Lincoln, prepare to travel off the well-beaten path and discover fascinating new attractions that will blow you away in each of these nine playfully peculiar towns in Massachusetts.
Leominster
You may not bat an eye when first reading the text, but Leominster’s spelling is quite deceiving. Pronounced “lemon-ster”, the city was first incorporated as an individual town in 1740 and was named after its English namesake. You can find unusual attractions here, such as the nearby 10-foot-tall Big Apple of New England structure at the Johnny Appleseed Visitors’ Center. Capture photos with the bright red landmark as you learn about American Folk Hero and Pioneer John Chapman, who grew up in town and how he took on the name. Leominster is also home to the plastic pink flamingo. Designed by American Artist Don Featherstone for a local plastics company in 1957, what was inspired by photos in the National Geographic Magazine soon became a fast-selling lawn ornament and famous icon. Pink Flamingo Day takes place here annually, where vendors and locals come together to celebrate the icon in June.
Salem
Welcome to Salem, a unique city with an eerie past. Known as the destination where the Salem Witch Trials took place from 1692 to 1693, you can learn more about the town’s dark history through reenactments at the Witch Dungeon Museum. The Witch House at Salem, the former home of Trials Judge Jonathan Corwin, exhibits furniture and architecture from the seventeenth century. You can purchase themed gifts and souvenirs here, from special herbs to one-of-a-kind artwork, spooky confectionery, mysterious home goods, and more. Another famous attraction is The House of the Seven Gables. This designated National Historic Landmark District served as the inspiration for American author Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, published in 1851. Each October, the town also comes alive with Haunted Happenings, a month-long festival of parades, ghost tours, and costume balls that celebrates Salem’s spooky reputation in a lively, family-friendly way.
Ware
While Ware has a population of about 10,000, its downtown has an eerie atmosphere. Often referred to as a “ghost town” with nearly empty streets, visitors often report feeling like they have traveled back in time upon arriving here. On the contrary, the town is also home to striking landmarks such as the Quabbin Observation Tower. This 1940 structure was built upon the completion of the Quabbin Reservoir. For shopping, Gibbs Crossing is a local shopping plaza where large retailers and small shops converge on Palmer Road, and is accessible from Route 32. Clinton Street is home to Ware Dreams Come True Park, with its inclusive playground and green space.
Shelburne Falls
Discover Shelburne Falls, a mesmerizing village situated along the Deerfield River, in the foothills of the Berkshires. Here, you will find captivating attractions such as the Bridge of Flowers. This famous floral-covered bridge features breathtaking varieties from April through October, with changing bulbs, perennials, shrubs, trees, and annuals. Another awe-inspiring attraction is the Shelburne Falls Glacial Potholes. This incredible cluster of over 50 potholes was formed when stones moved by the rushing waters of the Deerfield River became trapped in cracks, thus drilling into the bottom of the riverbed. From there, make your way over to the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum. Head on a journey back in time via the Shelburne Falls & Colrain Street Railway trolley car No. 10, an operating landmark constructed in 1896 by Wason Manufacturing Co.
Amherst
Visit Amherst, another one of the most playfully peculiar towns in Massachusetts. Here, you will find the Beneski Museum of Natural History, where over 1,700 specimens are exhibited. Discover fascinating fossil skeletons, an outstanding collection of dinosaur footprints, incredible geological specimens, and even meteorites from beyond planet Earth. Another jaw-dropping site is the Mead Art Museum. Admire the striking Stearns Steeple, which stands beside a gorgeous Gothic church constructed in 1873, before you head inside the museum to see the 17th-century English knight's parlor and Assyrian wall reliefs (dating back to the 8th century BCE).
Holyoke
Speaking of dinosaurs, if you are interested in Paleontology, a trip to Holyoke is calling your name. Uncover real dinosaur footprints as you follow prehistoric tracks at Dinosaur Footprints, a Trustees’ property home to the first ever dinosaur prints scientifically described. See the tracks found in slabs of sandstone as you wander down this otherworldly path just off of Route 5, set along the banks of the Connecticut River. Once you have traveled back in time, be ready for an immersive post-apocalyptic experience in DementedFX. This haunted house features 20,000 square feet of expansive monsters, and Hollywood sets and props that will take adventure seekers straight into a horror movie. Equipped with a VIP Lounge and a bar, this is a spot adults will enjoy just as much as the kids. Sports enthusiasts can also stop by the International Volleyball Hall of Fame, the perfect place to celebrate the sport’s legacy.
Falmouth
A charming destination in southwest Cape Cod, this coastal gem offers more than meets the eye. Upon arriving, you will see picturesque New England beauty, but upon further investigation, you will discover mysterious wonders in one of the most playfully peculiar towns in Massachusetts. Begin your journey at the Highfield Hall & Gardens, a breathtaking Victorian center with scenic trails and remarkable restored gardens. Legend has it that the hall is haunted, with reports of a woman’s footsteps and apparitions by the window. Many believe it to be homeowner Mary Louisa Beebe, who passed away in the room at age 45.
Next, head on over to East Falmouth to meet captivating creatures in the Coonamessett Farm. From Daisy the Nigerian Dwarf Goat and her kids, to Alpacas, Miniature Donkeys, and other wildlife, you will make unforgettable furry friends here. Finally, whether you are looking for unique gifts and souvenirs to take home or would like to simply explore a local indie bookstore, Eight Cousins Books is the place to be, with a wide selection of kids’ and adults’ books.
Sandwich
Yes, you read that right. There is a town in Massachusetts called Sandwich, and it is downright stunning. Aside from its spectacular restaurants (of course), this Cape Cod wonder offers riveting coastal scenery, a rich history, and distinctive charm. Named the “Glass Town Cultural District” by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, Sandwich has been recognized for its assets. Start by visiting the Sandwich Glass Museum, exploring the town’s significant role in American glass production. You can learn to make your own handmade glass souvenir here, watching the skilled demonstration artists as you handle molten glass and create your own memorable product.
Next, uncover history at the Hoxie House Museum. This intriguing saltbox was constructed circa 1675 and is believed to be the oldest saltbox on Cape Cod. It displays the fascinating architectural style that is distinctive to New England. The 17th-century Dexter Grist Mill is another spectacular site to see; it is a restoration of the original mill built by English-born Businessman Thomas Dexter in 1640.
Lincoln
Treat your adventurous spirit to an unforgettable experience in one of the most playfully peculiar towns in Massachusetts. Lincoln is home to all kinds of gems, from quirky parks to one-of-a-kind structures with small-town agricultural charm. Ponyhenge is perhaps one of the strangest landmarks here. Roughly 30 to 50 rocking horses have been arranged in circles and accumulated year after year, with nobody knowing or explaining how. The sculptures of deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum are quite remarkable as well. Over 60 works of contemporary, modern, large-scale, and outdoor sculptures and installations are set here, including the Two Hearts, Crazy Spheroid, Figure From The Sea, and many more. Despite its name, Mount Misery is a scenic route with well-maintained trails that is well worth exploring.
A Peculiar Yet Fun Trip To Massachusetts
So, there you have it. If you would like to embark on a unique journey, exploring fascinating sites you would not see elsewhere, Massachusetts is the state to visit. Between the expansive structures and cultural icons of Leominster, the geological wonders of Shelburne Falls, and the mysterious themed parks of Lincoln, there are many landmarks in The Bay State that will take you on an immersive journey. Combine history, beauty, and culture as you uncover the quirks of Massachusetts's nine most playfully peculiar towns.
