You don’t have to look far in Massachusetts to find some truly stunning natural beauty. This state is covered in scenic gems that don’t require even a smidgen of hiking or camping. Check out these amazing spots that will awe you with their loveliness but won’t make your feet ache.
- Glacial Potholes, Shelburne Falls
Flickr/Doug Kerr This is an utterly unique natural wonder that you can literally walk right up to. The glacial potholes in Shelburne Falls were created millions of years ago by the swirling waters of melting glaciers. The holes range in size from 6 inches to 39 feet, and they’re a beautiful sight on a sunny day.
- Sandwich Boardwalk, Sandwich
Flickr/Tom Whitten Fancy a bit of a stroll but don’t want to commit to a full-on hike? This spot may be perfect for you. The Sandwich Boardwalk is the longest such boardwalk in the state, and will take you through the beauty of Mill Creek and the marsh beside Town Beach without ever getting your feet wet. (Boardwalk Road, Sandwich)
- Boston Harbor Islands
Flickr/MOTT While you do have to take a quick ferry ride to reach the islands (such is the nature of islands), exploring these natural treasures doesn’t mean strapping on your hiking boots. Kayak along the shores, swim in the bracing waters or simply lounge amidst nature.
- Marconi Beach, Cape Cod National Seashore, Wellfleet
Flickr/Garth The Cape Cod National Seashore is a massive swathe of protected coastline and natural beauty, and Marconi Beach is one of the most beautiful spots in the park. This family-friendly beach has plenty of parking so you can drive right up and start enjoying the waves. The view from the top of the dunes along the shore is gorgeous.
- Tower Hill Botanic Garden, Boylston
Flickr/Liz West These amazing botanical gardens may be man made, but they’re an amazing place to experience the beauty of nature without a long trek in the wilderness. Stop by and enjoy the manicured paths, gorgeous flowering fields and fascinating greenhouses. (11 French Drive, Boylston)
- Aquinnah Cliffs, Martha’s Vineyard
Flickr/Bart Hanlon These colorful cliffs are one of the most unique natural wonders in Massachusetts, and there’s not a bit of hiking required to enjoy them. Simply drive out to Gay Head on Martha’s Vineyard and enjoy the view. There’s also a spectacular beach down below the cliffs if you feel like checking them out up close.
- Deerfield River, Charlemont
Flickr/MOTT The Deerfield River is definitely a natural wonder, but head to Charlemont and check out the raft-tube launch spot to experience this waterway like never before. You can drive there and spend the afternoon floating along the river in perfect serenity.
- Cape Cod Lavender Farm, Harwich
Flickr/Karen Cox You don’t have to travel to France to luxuriate in the sight and scent of lush lavender fields. Head to this small farm tucked away in the woods (but completely reachable by car) and breathe in the heavenly smell of countless lavender blooms in the spring and early summer. Visiting is free and there’s even an honor-system shop filled with lavender goodies. (Follow the dirt road off of Weston Woods Road, Harwich)
- Walden Pond, Concord
Flickr/Joey Higgins The famously serene Walden Pond was a favorite of Henry David Thoreau. Today, you can drive to this splendid spot and soak up some of the peace and quiet that inspired a great American author. This spot does get a bit busy on sunny summer days, so arrive early to see the pond at its most serene.
- Colby Farm Sunflower Fields, Newbury
Colby Farm What could be more magical than stepping into a brilliant field of waving sunflowers? Take a summer day trip to this spectacular farm and admire the blooming fields for free. Afterwards, be sure to stop by the shop at Colby Farm to pick up some fresh produce, meats and treats. (50 Scotland Road, Newbury)
- Onota Lake, Pittsfield
Flickr/gigi_nyc This gorgeous 617-sapphire pool is one of the most stunning lakes in the state. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking or just lazily floating. Pack a picnic and plan to spend the afternoon at this lovely Pittsfield lake.
These fantastic natural spots in Massachusetts don’t require any hiking to reach and enjoy, so there’s no reason not to plan a day trip today. For more amazing places to explore in Massachusetts, check out these 20 jaw-dropping places that will blow you away.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
This is an utterly unique natural wonder that you can literally walk right up to. The glacial potholes in Shelburne Falls were created millions of years ago by the swirling waters of melting glaciers. The holes range in size from 6 inches to 39 feet, and they’re a beautiful sight on a sunny day.
Flickr/Tom Whitten
Fancy a bit of a stroll but don’t want to commit to a full-on hike? This spot may be perfect for you. The Sandwich Boardwalk is the longest such boardwalk in the state, and will take you through the beauty of Mill Creek and the marsh beside Town Beach without ever getting your feet wet. (Boardwalk Road, Sandwich)
Flickr/MOTT
While you do have to take a quick ferry ride to reach the islands (such is the nature of islands), exploring these natural treasures doesn’t mean strapping on your hiking boots. Kayak along the shores, swim in the bracing waters or simply lounge amidst nature.
Flickr/Garth
The Cape Cod National Seashore is a massive swathe of protected coastline and natural beauty, and Marconi Beach is one of the most beautiful spots in the park. This family-friendly beach has plenty of parking so you can drive right up and start enjoying the waves. The view from the top of the dunes along the shore is gorgeous.
Flickr/Liz West
These amazing botanical gardens may be man made, but they’re an amazing place to experience the beauty of nature without a long trek in the wilderness. Stop by and enjoy the manicured paths, gorgeous flowering fields and fascinating greenhouses. (11 French Drive, Boylston)
Flickr/Bart Hanlon
These colorful cliffs are one of the most unique natural wonders in Massachusetts, and there’s not a bit of hiking required to enjoy them. Simply drive out to Gay Head on Martha’s Vineyard and enjoy the view. There’s also a spectacular beach down below the cliffs if you feel like checking them out up close.
The Deerfield River is definitely a natural wonder, but head to Charlemont and check out the raft-tube launch spot to experience this waterway like never before. You can drive there and spend the afternoon floating along the river in perfect serenity.
Flickr/Karen Cox
You don’t have to travel to France to luxuriate in the sight and scent of lush lavender fields. Head to this small farm tucked away in the woods (but completely reachable by car) and breathe in the heavenly smell of countless lavender blooms in the spring and early summer. Visiting is free and there’s even an honor-system shop filled with lavender goodies. (Follow the dirt road off of Weston Woods Road, Harwich)
Flickr/Joey Higgins
The famously serene Walden Pond was a favorite of Henry David Thoreau. Today, you can drive to this splendid spot and soak up some of the peace and quiet that inspired a great American author. This spot does get a bit busy on sunny summer days, so arrive early to see the pond at its most serene.
Colby Farm
What could be more magical than stepping into a brilliant field of waving sunflowers? Take a summer day trip to this spectacular farm and admire the blooming fields for free. Afterwards, be sure to stop by the shop at Colby Farm to pick up some fresh produce, meats and treats. (50 Scotland Road, Newbury)
Flickr/gigi_nyc
This gorgeous 617-sapphire pool is one of the most stunning lakes in the state. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking or just lazily floating. Pack a picnic and plan to spend the afternoon at this lovely Pittsfield lake.
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