Top Spots to Visit While Travel Nursing in Massachusetts
If you’re a travel nurse heading to or already exploring Massachusetts, you’re in for a treat! The Bay State offers an incredible mix of historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and vibrant cultural scenes. Here’s your guide to some must-visit spots that will enrich your travel nursing experience.
1. Nantucket: Island Escape
A ferry ride away lies the quaint island of Nantucket. With its cobblestone streets, lighthouses, and pristine beaches, it’s a world apart. The Whaling Museum tells the tale of the island’s seafaring past. For a relaxing day, bike to Siasconset Beach, and don’t forget to try the local seafood, especially the scallops!
2. The Berkshires: A Cultural Retreat
Nestled in Western Massachusetts, the Berkshires are a haven for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Catch a show at the Tanglewood Music Center, summer home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Explore contemporary art at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) in North Adams. If nature calls, hike part of the Appalachian Trail or visit the serene Mount Greylock.
3. Plymouth: Step Back in Time
Visit Plymouth, where the Pilgrims landed in 1620. The Plimoth Patuxet Museums offer a living history experience with replicas of the Mayflower and the Pilgrim settlement. The town’s waterfront area is great for exploring, and the local cuisine features delicious, fresh seafood.
4. Cambridge: Intellectual Hub
Just across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge is bustling with intellectual and historical heft. Wander around Harvard Square, visit the Harvard Art Museums, or take a leisurely walk through the MIT campus. The eclectic mix of bookstores, cafes, and boutiques will keep you entertained for hours.
5. Cape Cod: Beaches and More
No visit to Massachusetts is complete without a trip to Cape Cod. Enjoy the stunning beaches, charming villages, and scenic bike paths like the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Stop by Provincetown for its art galleries, maritime history, and the Pilgrim Monument, which offers panoramic views of the cape.
6. Lowell: The Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution
For a unique experience, head to Lowell, where the American Industrial Revolution comes to life. Lowell National Historical Park offers canal boat tours and a glimpse into the cotton mill operations. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes the annual Lowell Folk Festival and a host of galleries and eateries in its bustling downtown.
7. Salem: Dive into the Witch City
Known for the infamous witch trials of 1692, Salem isn’t just about spooky history. It’s a city of lively museums, eclectic shops, and beautiful waterfront views. Don’t miss the Peabody Essex Museum, one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating museums, which houses a mesmerizing collection of art and cultural artifacts. The Salem Witch Museum offers insights into the witch trials, while the nearby Willows Park is perfect for a seaside stroll.
Each of these destinations offers unique experiences that can enrich your stay in Massachusetts, blending cultural exploration with relaxation and fun. So, when your shifts are over, step out and explore all that this historic state has to offer. Happy travels!
Ready to start your travel nursing journey in Massachusetts? Search all of our Massachusetts jobs to find the perfect assignment and start exploring all that this amazing state has to offer!