Steeped in the Arts
From world-renowned museums and theaters to contemporary galleries and vibrant music venues, New England has something to offer every artistic appetite and preference. Maybe it’s the region’s natural beauty that inspires, or perhaps it’s the centuries of real-world dramas that have played out here - and still do.
An Oasis of Art
While the arts scene is diverse and vibrant throughout New England, one region in particular stands out: The Berkshire County region of Massachusetts. Here, you’ll find the world-renowned Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Arts (MASS MoCA), a mecca for visual and performing arts of all genres, as well as an arts educational center for all ages. Better yet, it’s situated in the thriving community of North Adams, one of New England’s most scenic and thriving small cities.
In North Adams, you’re never far from the beauty of New England’s mountains
It Begins in Beantown
No city in the US is more steeped in history than Boston, which has been inhabited since at least 2400 B.C. by the Massachusetts tribe of Native Americans. More recently, Boston has become known as the place where the Puritans settled and where many of our young nation’s conflicts played out. You can take a stroll through Boston’s history along the 2.5-mile Freedom trail, which connects 16 historically important sites, including museums, meeting houses, churches, and even burial grounds.
Looking to explore more New England cities? Here’s your guide
It Came From New England
Here are just a few of New England’s most important contributions to the world at large:
Pez candy - Orange, Connecticut
Matches - Chicopee, Massachusetts
Earmuffs - Farmington, Maine
Snow Shovel - West Charleston, New Hampshire
Snowmobile - West Ossipee, New Hampshire
Platform Scale - St. Johnsbury, Vermont
Return to the Gilded Age
With stunning architecture that spans over 150 years, the Newport mansions offer a uniquely intimate glimpse of the lifestyles of the rich and famous during the early years of our nation’s founding. Originally constructed by some of the most storied families in US history (does the name Vanderbilt ring a bell?), these incredible examples of colonial-era architecture are open to the public, whether for education, inspiration, or simple gawking (or a mix of all three).
Need a break from the pomp and circumstance?
New England’s back roads are waiting for you
Act Like a Local
Sure, there’s plenty of world-renowned art to experience in New England. But don’t forget the artistic talents of the locals, which are on proud display at innumerable regional galleries, theaters, and performing arts centers. Music fans should make their way to Higher Ground in Burlington, Vermont, as well as Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Meanwhile, theater buffs will want to catch a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse, in (where else?) Ogunquit, Maine.
If you’re a fan of local art, we bet you’d like New England’s local food, as well
