When it comes to navigating the dizzying amount of things to do in Massachusetts, there are the spots that everyone knows about and then there are the places where people in the know go to have a great time. Here are some amazing shops, natural spaces and attractions that Massachusetts locals rave about...quietly.
1. Bound Brook Beach, Wellfleet
This hidden beach is one of the Cape's best-kept secrets. Located along the coast of Wellfleet, it can be reached via a 25-minute hike through beautiful coastal forest or a quick drive down a dirt road. Tourists have no idea this place exists, so it makes for the perfect quiet place to swim and relax. Click here to learn more.
2. Wynott's Wands, Salem
Wynott's Wands in Salem is a shop that's straight out of the wizarding world. Lined with shelves stacked high with dusty wand boxes and magical knickknacks, this incredible shop actually sells handmade wooden wands with enchanting cores for prices as low as $20. It's worth a visit for any Harry Potter fan. Click here to learn more.
3. Animal Adventures, Bolton
This is New England's largest privately owned animal rescue center. Unlike a normal zoo, you can actually touch and interact with the exotic animals that live here. Hang out with creatures like the arctic fox, ring-tailed lemur, red kangaroo, vervet monkey and more. You can also attend educational animal shows and sign up for a private tour of the center. Click here to learn more.
4. Billingsgate Island, Eastham
Located just off the coast of Eastham is Massachusetts' very own "disappearing island." Billingsgate Shoal was once a 60-acre island that supported a thriving fishing community, dozens of homes and a lighthouse. However, intense flooding began in the 1820s and by the early 1900s, residents were being forced to the mainland by rising waters. Today, you can actually explore the old island when the tide is low. Click here to learn more.
5. Cape Cod Inflatable Park, West Yarmouth
This hidden waterpark is one of the most unique summer destinations in the state. Featuring gargantuan inflatable slides and rides, the waterpark is perfect for kids and adults looking to cool off on a hot day. In addition to the slides, you can try your hand at inflatable obstacle courses, let the young kids play at the special toddler zone and grab lunch at the food area. Click here to learn more.
6. Schoolmaster Hill Ruins, Boston
This amazing hiking trail can be found in Franklin Park, a stunning 527-acre parkland that spans the Jamaica Plain, Roxbury and Dorchester neighborhoods of Boston. Schoolmaster Hill is crowned with the ruins of a structure that look like the remains of ancient castle, and it's an amazing hike for kids and adults alike. Click here to learn more.
7. Winnekenni Castle, Haverhill
This gorgeous Haverhill landmark is a well-kept secret from most tourists and locals. The castle was built in 1875 as a summer home for a prominent local chemist and has been delighting people with its beautiful grounds and stunning architecture ever since. Click here to learn more.
8. James P. Kelleher Rose Garden, Boston
The James P. Kelleher Rose Garden is a stunning natural gem tucked away in the buzzing heart of Boston. The scent of roses fills the air and there are plenty of statues, fountains and hidden nooks to discover. This garden is free and open to the public from mid-April to October. Click here to learn more.
9. Three Sisters Sanctuary, Goshen
This amazing garden looks like something from another world. Open to the public since 2010, Three Sisters Sanctuary is an art, sculpture and plant garden that features over 200 standing stones and a dizzying array of creative displays. This is a peaceful and whimsical spot to spend an afternoon. Click here to learn more.
10. The Gardens at Elm Bank, Wellesley
This little-known natural oasis is bursting with beautiful landscaped gardens and charming footpaths. Rare flowers adorning winding footpaths that will take you over stone bridges, a natural children's playground and even a working food garden. Click here to learn more.
What's your favorite secret spot in Massachusetts? Let us know! For more hidden treasures across the state, check out our list of the best places to visit in 2018.
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