Mass Matches

Welcome to Mass Matches!

2020-03-16T00:40:00.004-04:00

Welcome to Mass Matches: A website for mentors, mentees, and anyone who's interested in mentoring! Come find interesting match activities and view our Corps-directed PSA featuring Massachusetts-based matches.

Meanwhile, take a look at the national mentoring PSA featuring General Colin Powell.

Create a Road Map

2010-03-15T17:11:00.001-04:00

By allowing your mentees to reflect on and report on their life experience, not only are you validating their experiences but you are allowing them to present their history to you, thus building a stronger relationship.

Materials: large sheets of paper (up to 3 feet) and markers

1. Read your matches the following instructions:
“For the next few minutes, reflect on the course of your life. Recall all major and minor decision points, as well as the chance events that impacted your life. Visualize your life as a road map with highways, crossroads, intersections, detours, and dead ends. You may also include traffic lights, bypasses and mountains. Using the materials given, transfer your mental road map to paper. Add any information appropriate – dates, time, people, places, circumstances. Be creative if you wish and add drawings to your map as well as comments.”
2. Then hand out the materials and let them draw their “life road.”
3. After 15‐20 minutes, have the matches present their road maps to each other.

Create a Personal Coat of Arms

2010-03-15T16:58:00.004-04:00

Coat of arms were originally used to identify warriors dressed in armor, each knight chose symbols and colors to represent his family or clan. Matches can make their own personal coat of arms based on the values and principles that are important to them.

Materials: copies of a blank coat of arms divided into six sections (provided below) and markers
If there are not any copies of the coat of arms made, have the mentee draw their own on paper. Have them divide the shields into six sections. The mentor then chooses six topics. For example:

I would never give up…
What I want to be …
I am…
My greatest achievement is…
The most important thing to me is…
If I had a million dollars, I would
My favorite vacation spot is…
My favorite musical group is…
If I had one year to live and could do anything, I would…

The mentee completes each sentence in one of the six sections of the shield. They can write their answers or even draw them. These are a few possible examples; however, the mentor may wish to make up his/her own. The beginning statements should be low risk and gradually get harder or more risky.

The mentor should also complete their own coat of arms. Once both the mentee and mentor have completed their coat of arms, they should share their answers with each other.

Blank Coat of Arms (PDF)

Tell a story using one word at a time

2010-03-15T16:55:00.001-04:00

Creating a story together using this method is sure to get a laugh. This is also a neat activity to do with a computer or word processor, if you have access to one.

Materials: None needed – but if you have a computer, use it!

1. Have your mentee say one word to begin the tale
2. You add one word and then your mentee adds another until the first sentence is completed.
3. Continue taking turns providing words until the story comes to a conclusion. Remember that you may not wind up with the ending you envisioned; you never know what direction the story will take with a coauthor.
4. If you are able to sit at a computer, type the words as you come up with them and then read the story back once you are finished.

Make a Tornado in a Bottle

2010-03-15T16:52:00.001-04:00

This activity will allow you to see what a tornado looks like on a small scale. The end product shows water moving through a small hole in a manner that simulates the spiraling behavior (or vortex) of the tail of the tornado. A thunderstorm may draw up air from the ground, creating unstable combinations of rising and falling air and resulting in a violent rotating storm. If the storm touches the ground, a tornado is born.

Materials: Two clear plastic large soda bottles (empty and without the caps), tape, water, food coloring (optional)

1. Fill one of the bottles three‐quarters full of water.
2. Add a couple drops of food coloring.
3. Invert the other bottle so that it sits on top of the first bottle with the openings together.
4. Wind the tape tightly around the necks of the bottles so that no water can leak out (this is important – it won’t work if the water leaks). The top bottle should be securely balanced on top of the bottom bottle.
5. Now, hold the bottles with two hands and swirl the water around.
6. Turn upside down and watch what happens

Links:
http://fun.familyeducation.com/activity/childrens‐science‐activities/39505.html

Play Mancala

2010-03-15T16:47:00.013-04:00

Mancala is an ancient strategy game that dates back thousands of years. The game has even been found in Egyptian tombs! Although you can purchase Mancala sets, it’s easy to make your own and is a fun two person game.

Materials: an empty egg carton (six holes in two rows), two bowls or dishes for the score pots, 48 playing pieces – these can be any small objects such as seeds, buttons, stones, marbles, beans, etc. The color and size don’t matter as long as you can fit 6‐8 pieces in one hole. You can also draw the board with chalk or on paper (see pictures below)

1. Set up the board by placing one “store pot” on each side of the egg carton. Place 4 playing pieces in each hole (but none in the score pots). Players sit opposite one another. The store pot to your left is your store; to your right is your opponent’s. The goal of the game is to end up with the most playing pieces in your store pot when play finished
2. The first player picks up all of the pieces in any one of the holes on his/her side of the board. Moving clockwise, the player deposits ONE of the stones in each hole until the stones run out. Be sure to put one stone in your store if there are enough. If he/she is still holding stones, then she continues putting them in holes on the left side, past the bowl.
3. Do not put a stone in your opponents store pot. Just skip over it, and continue putting pieces in the holes. Each turn, a player can choose any hole from which to pick up pieces. Once the player has chosen, he/she must deposit one piece in each hole until the pieces run out (remember to deposit one in your own store, but not your opponents). Once each piece is deposited, the turn switches to the other player. Players may not count the number of pieces in each hole before choosing a hole for play.
4. The game ends when all six spaces on one side of the Mancala board are empty.
5. Count all the pieces in each store. The winner is the player with the most pieces.

Links:
http://www.creativekidsathome.com/games/mancala.shtml

Make a Calendar Together

2010-03-15T16:42:00.002-04:00

Making a calendar is a great way to learn about the months, seasons and days of the week. It’s also a great way to talk about future plans and what you are looking forward to. Mentor and mentee should both put special dates in the calendar together, including days that you see one another, birthdays, and special events.

Materials: Be creative! You can use graph paper or create your own calendar squares on blank paper. You can also print out free calendar templates at one of the links below. You will also need pictures – crayons/markers, photos, magazine cutouts, stickers (your choice!)

1. Print free calendar pages for each month, or draw your own using paper and straight edge to create the boxes. You can also do this in Microsoft Word. When creating your own, devote half the page to the picture section
2. Fill in the numbers for each month. Go over number of days in each month. You can use the following rhyme: “Thirty days has September, April, June and November” (all the others have 31 – except for February).
3. Create a picture for each month using photographs, coloring or cutting pictures out of magazines. Try to have each picture relate to something about that month.
4. Use stickers or markers to mark in holidays, birthdays and any other special dates.

Links:
http://donnayoung.org/calendars/blank‐calendars.htm
http://familycrafts.about.com/od/calendars/Making_Calendars.htm
http://www.kidsturncentral.com/calendars2010.htm

Psychiatrist

2010-03-15T16:40:00.001-04:00

This brainteaser is an exciting and fun way to learn about each other. It requires creativity, observation and patience.

Materials: None

1. Have the entire group of matches sit in a circle with everybody facing each other. Select one person to go out of the room.

2. Now the group decides on a "problem." Examples: everybody is the person to their left, or has green socks on, or everybody on one half of the room is one person and everybody else is another; there are hundreds of variations ‐ be creative!

3. Once a "problem" has been determined, have the selected person come back in the room. Now, he/she has to stand in the middle of the circle and go around, in any order they want, and ask people yes/no questions. Popular questions include:

"Are you a guy or a girl?"
"Are you wearing a sweatshirt?"
"Do you have brown hair?"
"Are you wearing socks?"
And endless numbers of questions of course.

4. People who are asked the questions have to answer them, keeping their "problem" in mind. For example, if everybody is the person to the left, and I am a blond girl but a red‐headed guy is sitting to my left, I have to answer like I am the guy to my left. So if the "It" person asks me "Do you have red hair?" I'd answer "Yes." If the "It" person asks if I am a guy, I'd say "Yes!" This can be pretty funny at times!

5. Now, let's say someone answers incorrectly? Anyone who realizes that person has answered wrongly now yells "Psychiatrist!!" At this call, everybody gets up and moves to another place. But their "problems" now apply to the way the room is situated ‐ if I am the person two to the right, I am now whoever is newly the person two to the right.

6. The point of this is for the "It" person to figure out the group's "problem." Once he/she has, the last person to answer a question goes out of the room and is "It."

Make Silly Putty

2010-03-15T16:11:00.001-04:00

Rip it, stretch it, bounce it, and use it to make sculptures or take impressions of newspapers! This homemade recipe is easy and the end product is fun to keep and play with (at least for a couple of weeks in an air‐tight container).

Materials: large bowl, white glue, measuring cup, food coloring (optional), liquid starch, large spoon, zipper‐closure baggie or container with airtight lid
If you need help finding liquid starch, check the laundry aisle at the grocery store

1. Pour cup of glue into bowl. If using food coloring, add to the glue
2. Add one cup liquid starch to glue
3. Encourage mentee to use large spoon to stir. Keep mixing until it congeals and then pour off the extra liquid
4. Have fun—but avoid using on carpet or clothing (table or floor are preferable)!

Games and Projects

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Elementary
Make Silly Putty
Make a Calendar Together
Play Mancala
Make a Tornado in a Bottle
Tell a story using one word at a time

High School
Create a Personal Coat of Arms
Create a Road Map
Mafia Game
Open or Closed
Psychiatrist

Additional Links

Activities for ages 6‐10, including word games and card games
http://fun.familyeducation.com/hobbies‐and‐interests/games/33402.html
Make a duct tape wallet
http://www.wikihow.com/Make‐a‐Duct‐Tape‐Wallet
Fun crafts
http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/
Science projects, games, activities
http://www.creativekidsathome.com/games/
Paper and pencil games
http://www.todaysparent.com/craftsactivities/article.jsp?content=1151187&page=1

Friends of the Children Boston e-mail
Receive weekly e-mails about activities in the Greater Boston area from Friends of the Children Boston. This is a great resource for free and affordable match activities. Click here to sign up.
Boston Youth Zone
A Web site with activities, opportunities and other fun stuff for kids and teens. There's also important information and resources for parents. You can also sign up to receive their monthly e-newsletter on the City of Boston Web site.

Boston Happenings Calendar
For other events in and around the Boston area, click here.
Dunkin' Donuts KidZone
Through the Dunkin' Donuts KidZone, programs can bring 24 people to watch, fromcourtside, the Celtics and the visiting team warm-up. The rest of this complimentary package includes 24 upper-level tickets for the game; Dunkin' Donuts t-shirts for attendees; a commemorative photo at center court and a spot on the Jumbotron during the game. Similar opportunities are also available for Red Sox games. Call Regan Communications to get your program's name on the list: 617.488.2877. TD Banknorth Kids' Clubhouse
The TD Banknorth Kids' Clubhouse invites programs with a TD Banknorth branch in their city or town (check herefor a branch near you) to travel to Celtics games in style! The complimentary package includes a round-trip limo ride; access for 20 people to sit courtside and watch the Celtics and the visiting team warm-up; 20 tickets in the arena's lower level to watch the game; 20 food vouchers; a commemorative photo at center court and a spot on the Jumbotron during the game. This opportunity is also available for Bruins games. Call Celebrity Marketing to get your program's name on the list: 978.749.6700.

Open or Closed

2010-03-15T16:03:00.001-04:00

This brainteaser is a great way to get matches to think outside of the box. It requires patience and observation.

Materials: empty water bottle with the cap

1. Have the group of matches sit in a circle.
2. The first person starts by turning to the person to his/her right and saying, “I am passing this bottle to you....” (And they fill in either “closed” or “open.” The phrase they choose to end with depends on whether their legs are crossed or open. They can do whatever they want with the bottle in terms of how they pass them to the person next to them.
3. The person who is receiving the bottle must say, “I am receiving this bottle...” (The ending should reflect how the person before had his/her legs positioned ‐ NOT how they passed the bottle.)
4. The game continues around the circle...play until everyone has figured out the game.

NOTE: Participants can get easily frustrated if they can not figure out the game—be patient and encouraging.

Norfolk County

2010-03-15T15:51:00.033-04:00

Norfolk County

Adams National Historic Site Free - $
Blue Hills Trailside Museum Free
Fairbanks House $
United First Parish Church Free
Babson Skating Center $-$$
Davis Museum and Cultural Center Free
Museum of Bad Art Free
F. Gilbert Hills State Forest Free
Orpheum Theater/Bay Colony Productions $-$$$
Lazer Zone $$-$$$

Mafia Game

2010-03-15T15:50:00.001-04:00

Mafia is a popular strategy and bluffing game that is good for discussing topics such as lying, deception, trust, good versus evil, etc. or just for a fun time. There are five roles one can play: one narrator, two members of the mafia, two members of the police (or one if the group is not large), one doctor, the remaining people are townspeople.

Materials: A deck of cards to determine who plays which role.
The narrator needs to prepare the right number of playing cards to set up the game. If there are 12 people playing, there would be two aces, two kings, one queen, and seven number (non‐face) cards, adding up to 12 cards. These numbers can fluctuate according to the group size. The narrator shuffles these cards and each person randomly selects a card, without revealing his or her identity. The person assumes the role for the round.

Roles

• Ace card: Anyone who gets an Ace card is a Mafia member. Their goal is to keep secret that they are Mafia and blend in with the Townspeople. For them to win the game, they want to eliminate the townspeople one by one each round but not to get eliminated (voted off) during the day.
• King card: Anyone who gets a King card is a member of the Police. These members try to figure out who is guilty of being a Mafia and who is innocent. Thus, their goal is to help the townspeople vote correctly in who to eliminate during the day (the good people, not the bad!). They generally want to keep their identity secret so that the Mafia cannot eliminate them early.
• Queen card: The doctor role. This optional (but recommended) role serves one purpose – to try to protect people during the night. He or she can also be selfish and choose to protect him/herself during the night.
• All other cards (number cards): Townspeople. Their goal is to figure out who is a member of the secret Mafia, and to eliminate them from the town during the day.

How to Play

Arrange the players in a circle, with the narrator outside the circle and walking around it. Each “day” of the game, the narrator takes the entire town through the following commands in this order:

Nighttime

• "It is nighttime, so everyone please go to sleep.” (Everyone puts their head down and closes their eyes)
• “Mafia, please wake up.” (Only the mafia quietly opens their eyes. The ones that are still “alive” quietly and unanimously choose a person to eliminate by pointing to someone in the group. The narrator takes note of the person chosen.
• “Mafia, please go to sleep.” (The mafia closes their eyes and places their heads down again.)
• “Police, please wake up.” (The member(s) of the police that are still alive open their eyes and quietly points to one person who they suspect is a member of the Mafia.
• The narrator quietly nods or shakes his or her head to indicate whether that person is indeed Mafia.
• “Police, please go to sleep.” (The member(s) of the police close their eyes and place their heads down.)
• “Doctor, please wake up and choose someone you’d like to protect.” (The doctor, if still alive, wakes up and silently points to someone they would like to protect for that day.)
• “Doctor, please go to sleep.” (The doctor closes his or her eyes and puts his/her head down.)
• “It’s morning. Everyone please wake up.” (Everyone opens their eyes and raises their head.)

Daytime Update

• The narrator announces the person who was eliminated, unless the doctor correctly selected the person who was targeted by the Mafia for the night. The person who was eliminated MUST reveal their card and quietly leave the circle. This person may not speak to anyone for the remainder of the entire game, but he or she may now keep his/her eyes open to watch everything.

Daytime Discussion/Voting

• The townspeople (along with the Mafia and Police who may pretend to be townspeople) then nominate and vote on people who they suspect is a Mafia. Each person nominated may make a defense and plead their case. The person receiving a majority vote (50% or above) is eliminated. After someone is voted off, they reveal their card and the day is over. The day ends, and the pattern starts again (Nighttime, Daytime Update, Daytime Discussion/Voting).

How to Win

The police or townspeople win if they successfully eliminate all mafia members. The mafia wins if they successfully eliminate all the townspeople. This group game involves lots of strategy, knowing how and when to reveal your identity, who to trust, etc.

Variations

A variation for younger kids is known as Predator. Instead of mafia, there are “predators,” and instead of police there are “hunters.” The other roles remain the same.

Middlesex County

2010-03-15T15:45:00.007-04:00

Middlesex County

The Butterfly Place $$-$$$
Drumlin Farms $-$$
Harvard Museum of Natural History $$
Land's Sake Farm Prices Vary
Longfellow National Historic Site $ (16 and under: free)
Minuteman National Historic Park $ (16 and under: free)
Lowell National Historic Park $$
Walden Pond Reservation Free
Science Discovery Museum $$$
National Heritage Museum Free

Franklin County

2010-03-15T14:21:00.009-04:00

Franklin County

Crab Apple Whitewater Inc. $$$$$+
Goodnow’s Chip and Putt $$$
High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary $
Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens $$
Mohawk Trail State Forest $
Poet’s Seat Tower Free
The Highlands of Conway Disc Golf Course $-$$
Songline Emu Farm $
Great Falls Discovery Center Free
Northfield Mountain Prices vary

Suffolk County

2010-03-15T14:00:00.005-04:00

Suffolk County

Sports Museum of New England $
The Arnold Arboretum Free
Coit Observatory at Boston University Free
Franklin Park Zoo $$-$$$
Freedom Trail Free
The Institute Of Contemporary Art $$ (17 and under: free)
Museum of Fine Arts $-$$$$
Museum of Science $$
New England Aquarium $$
USS Constitution Museum Free

Worcester County

2010-03-15T13:47:00.018-04:00

Worcester County

Town & Country Lanes $$
Worcester Art Museum $$
West Boylston Cinemas $$
Brookfield Orchards Free
EcoTarium $$-$$$
Higgins Armory Museum $$
Old Sturbridge Village $$-$$$$
Tower Hill Botanical Garden $-$$
Southwick’s Zoo $$$-$$$$
Skylite Roller Skating Center $-$$

A Year's Worth of Mentoring Activities

2010-03-15T13:06:00.000-04:00

52 ideas, one for each week of the year

1. Set your mentoring goals together.
2. Find a new recipe and make dinner together.
3. Make popcorn and watch a movie.
4. Go to a concert.
5. Tackle some homework and talk about study habits.
6. Go out to dinner together.
7. Go to a movie.
8. Shoot some hoops.
9. Go to the library together.
10. Construct a kite together and fly it.
11. Go window shopping
12. Learn about pop music.
13. Go to a sporting event.
14. Give a tour of your current job.
15. Do an art project
16. Talk about planning a career/plan a career.
17. Visit a nursing home and read to the elderly.
18. Go to the planetarium.
19. Visit a community college/technical school.
20. Plan a dream vacation (just for fun!).
21. Go on a picnic.
22. Try ice skating.
23. Attend a school play
24. Work on a resume.
25. Make holiday cards
26. Go hiking.
27. Do a pretend job interview.
28. Do some volunteer work together.
29. Talk about banking, credit cards, and budgets.
30. Talk about where to look for a part‐time job.
31. Go to the beach.
32. Watch a Red Sox game on TV.
33. Volunteer
34. Take a trip to the mall.
35. Make a pizza.
36. Try new ice cream flavors
37. Visit an animal shelter
38. Go to the aquarium
39. Go bargain hunting.
40. Visit a farmer’s market.
41. Swim laps at a local pool.
42. Play video games.
43. Go apple picking.
44. Visit an art gallery.
45. Use a disposable camera to capture special moments.
46. Go for a scenic drive to see fall foliage.
47. Bake cookies together and give them to friends.
48. Go to a local museum.
49. Do a bike tour of a nearby city
50. Go bowling.
51. Make root beer floats and play card games.
52. Tie‐Dye a t‐shirt or pillow cases.

Seasonal Events around Massachusetts

2010-03-15T12:57:00.003-04:00

January

The Boston Celtic Music Festival
bcmfest.com/index.html

February

Massachusetts Multicultural Film Festival
umass.edu/film/mmff.html

March

Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade
bostoncentral.com/events/boston_st_patricks_day_parade/p1130.php

April

Nantucket Daffodil Festival
nantucketchamber.org/visitor/daffodil.html

May

Annual Sheep and Woolcraft Fair
masheepwool.org/

June

Boston Early Music Festival
bemf.org/pages/fest/festival.htm

July

Lowell Folk Festival
lowellfolkfestival.org/

Pittsfield Art Show
pittsfieldartshow.org/

Art in the Park
worcestermass.org/arts‐culture‐entertainment/worcester‐cultural‐commission/art‐inthe‐park

August

Sandcastle and Sculpture Day
nantucketchamber.org/visitor/sandcastle.html

Marshfield Fair
marshfieldfair.org/

WordXWord Festival
wordxwordfestival.com/

The Bolton Fair
boltonfair.org/

September

The Big E
thebige.com/

(ahts): Boston Arts Festival
bostonahtsfestival.com/ahts/%28ahts%29%3A_The_Boston_Arts_Festival_Home.html

Country Fair at Hancock Shaker Village
pittsfield.com/events.asp?eventID=3504

King Richard’s Faire
kingrichardsfaire.net/

StART on the Street
startonthestreet.org/

Spencer Fair
centralmass.org/members/spencer‐fair‐grounds

October

Cranberry Festival
cranberryharvest.org/

Harvest Festival
berkshirebotanical.org/events/index.html

Topsfield Fair
topsfieldfair.org/

November

Cider Days Festival
ciderday.org/index.html

December

Edaville USA
edaville.com/edaville_directions.html

Berkshire County

2010-03-15T12:46:00.021-04:00

Berkshire County

Bartholomew's Cobble Free
Cove Bowling Lanes $$
Fun Works Fun Zone $$-$$$
Hancock Shaker Village $-$$
The Kilpatrick Athletic Center $-$$
The Norman Rockwell Museum $$
The Mount $$
Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art $-$$$
The Range $-$$
Tanglewood $-$$$$$+

Hampden County

2010-03-15T11:43:00.003-04:00

Hampden County

Agawam Municipal Golf Course $$$
Basketball Hall of Fame $$$
Forrest Park Zoo $
Six Flags $$$$$+
Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts $$
Museum of Springfield History $$
George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum $$
Springfield Science Museum $$
Dr. Seuss National Memorial $$
Symphony Hall $$$$$

Barnstable County

2010-03-15T11:22:00.026-04:00

Barnstable County

Kalmus Beach Free
Trayser Museum Complex $ (10 and under: free)
Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary $
Cape Cod Baseball League Free
Cape Cod Canal Free
Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra Prices vary
Sturgis Library Free
Barnstable County Fair Prices vary
Scargo Tower Prices vary
Cape Cod Potato Chips Free

Plymouth County

2010-03-15T11:13:00.004-04:00

Plymouth County

Bridgewater Ice Arena $
Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary $
Duxbury Beach Park Free (Parking $$-$$$)
Fuller Craft Museum $-$$ (12 and under: free)
Jenney Grist Mill Museum $$ (17 and under: free with paying adult)
Paragon Carousel $
Plimoth Plantation/Mayflower II $$-$$$$$+
Myles Standish State Forest Free
Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary $
South Shore Natural Science Center $

Nantucket County

2010-03-15T11:02:00.003-04:00

Nantucket County

Brant Point Lighthouse Prices vary
Whaling Museum $$-$$$$
Aunt Leah’s Fudge Prices vary
Madaket Beach $
Children’s Beach Free
Nantucket Athenaeum Free
First Congregational Church & Old North Vestry Free
Nantucket Boy’s and Girls Club Free
Nantucket Community Sailing Prices vary
Nantucket Boat Rental Prices vary

Essex County

2010-03-15T10:50:00.005-04:00

Essex County

Appleton Farms $
Cape Ann Museum $$ (12 and under: free)
Crane Wildlife Refuge On The Crane Estate $$
"Cry Innocent" Witch Trial $$
Essex Shipbuilding Museum $$
Ipswich River $
New England Pirate Museum $-$$$$
Peabody Essex Museum $$$ (16 and under: free)
Salem Maritime Museum $
Stage Fort Park Free
Imajine That $$
Lawrence Heritage State Park Free

Dukes County

2010-03-15T10:43:00.004-04:00

Dukes County

Fuller Street Beach Free
Stonewall Beach Free
Oak Bluffs Free
Farm Institute $$
Gay Head Lighthouse $
Polly Hill Arboretum $ (12 and under are free)
Long Point Wildlife Refuge Beach $$ (15 and under: free)
The Flying Horse Carousel $
Manuel Correllus State Forest Free
Agricultural Fair $$ (5 and under: free)

Hampshire County

2010-03-15T10:30:00.015-04:00

Hampshire County

Amherst College Museum of Natural History Free
Bassett Planetarium Free
Mead Art Museum Free
Smith College Museum of Art $
Music at Amherst Concert Series Free, unless otherwise specified
Interskate 91 North Roller Rink $-$$
Smith College Botanical Gardens Free
Smith College Performing Arts Events $-$$
Quabbin Reservoir Free
Veteran’s Field Skate Park Free

Bristol County

2010-03-15T09:41:00.017-04:00

Bristol County

Battleship Cove $$-$$$
Capron Park Zoo $-$$
Easton Children's Museum $$
Horseneck Beach State Reservation Free
Lazer Gate $$
Monster Mini Golf $$
Ocean Explorium $-$$
Women at Work Museum Free
Regal Silver City 10 Cinemas
Wonder Bowl $$-$$$$

Walden Pond Reservation

2010-02-23T17:07:00.013-05:00

Walden Pond Reservation

The beautiful Walden Pond Reservation includes 462 acres of preserved land for visitors to enjoy. The reservation is open for swimming, canoeing, hiking, picnicking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Spend the day enjoying the land that inspired Henry David Thoreau to write Walden.

FREE ▪ Open 8:00am to sunset ▪ All ages

View Larger Map

Walden Pond Reservation

   915 Walden St.
   Concord 01742

   Contact:
   978-369-3254
  http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/walden/index.htm

What did you think about Walden Pond Reservation?

Lowell National Historic Park

2010-02-23T16:38:00.001-05:00

Lowell National Historic Park

Learn about Lowell’s key position in America’s industrial revolution at this interactive museum. The park’s visitor center is housed in one of Lowell’s old textile mills and there you can learn about the other parts of this great museum.

$$ ▪ Hours vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

View Larger Map

Lowell National Historic Park

   246 Market St.
   Lowell 01850

   Contact:
   978-970-5000
  http://www.nps.gov/lowe/index.htm

What did you think about Lowell National Historic Park?

Land's Sake Farm

2010-02-23T16:29:00.001-05:00

Land's Sake Farm

Land’s Sake Farm is a community farm that provides visitors with the opportunity to pick their own produce, attend educational programs, and enjoy public open space.

Prices Vary ▪ Hours vary by season. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

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Land's Sake Farm

   90 Wellesley St.
   Weston 02493

   Contact:
   781-893-1162
  http://www.landssake.org/

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Minuteman National Historic Park

2010-02-23T16:27:00.003-05:00

Minuteman National Historic Park

Learn all about the Revolutionary War and explore beautiful Concord at the Minuteman National Historic Park. You can easily spend the whole day at the park: watching the park’s multimedia presentation, walking the Battle Road Trail, and visiting the historic buildings throughout the park.

$ (16 and under: FREE) ▪ Open daily 9:00am-5:00pm ▪ All ages

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Minuteman National Historic Park

   174 Liberty St.
   Concord 01742

   Contact:
   978-369-6993
  http://www.nps.gov/mima/index.htm

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Harvard Museum of Natural History

2010-02-23T16:20:00.002-05:00

Harvard Museum of Natural History

This museum boasts a wide variety of exhibits, programs, and classes about the natural world. From its great mammal hall to its glass flowers to its mineralogical and geological gallery, the HMNH has something for everyone.

$$ ▪ Open daily 9:00am-5:00pm ▪ All ages

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Harvard Museum of Natural History

   26 Oxford St.
   Cambridge 02138

   Contact:
   617-495-3045
  http://www.hmnh.harvard.edu/

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National Heritage Museum

2010-02-23T16:19:00.001-05:00

National Heritage Museum

The National Historic Museum tells a broad spectrum of American history in an interactive and engaging manner. There are many changing exhibits that range from Revolutionary War history to 1950s diner culture.

FREE ▪ Open Tuesday-Sunday. Hours Vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

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National Heritage Museum

   33 Marrett Rd.
   Lexington 02421

   Contact:
   781-861-6559
  http://www.nationalheritagemuseum.org/

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Science Discovery Museum

2010-02-23T16:00:00.002-05:00

Science Discovery Museum

The Science discovery museum provides school-aged children with the opportunity to explore math and science in a creative and fun manner. It is located on the same campus as the Children’s Discovery Museum which helps younger children learn while they play.

$$$ ▪ Hours vary. Contact for more information ▪ Ages 10 and under

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Science Discovery Museum

   177 Main St.
   Acton 01720

   Contact:
   978-264-4200
  http://www.discoverymuseums.org/

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Drumlin Farms

2010-02-23T15:22:00.001-05:00

Drumlin Park

Drumlin Farms is a real working farm that invites visitors to explore its grounds and enjoy a wide variety of activities. You can visit the animals in the farmyard, try your hand at gardening, or learn about farming through a range of educational activities.

$-$$ ▪ Hours vary by season. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

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Drumlin Farms

   208 South Great Rd.
   Lincoln 01773

   Contact:
   781-259-2200
  http://www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Drumlin_Farm/index.php

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The Butterfly Place

2010-02-23T15:10:00.001-05:00

The Butterfly Place

Walk around this indoor butterfly garden and watch local and exotic butterflies as they fly around you.

$$-$$$ ▪ Open daily March-October 10:00am-4:00pm ▪ All ages

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The Butterfly Place

   120 Tyngsboro Rd.
   Westford 01886

   Contact:
   978-392-0955
  http://www.butterflyplace-ma.com/

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Stage Fort Park

2010-02-23T15:01:00.001-05:00

Stage Fort Park

Stage Fort Park sits on the site of Gloucester’s first settlement and now boasts two beautiful beaches. Enjoy a day relaxing on the beaches, exploring the shoreline, or learning about Gloucester’s history at the welcome center.

FREE ▪ Open May – October. Hours vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

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Stage Fort Park

   Hought St.
   Gloucester 01930

   Contact:
   978-281-8865
  http://www.essexheritage.org/sites/stage_fort_park.shtml

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Salem Maritime Museum

2010-02-23T14:54:00.002-05:00

Salem Maritime Museum

The Salem Maritime Museum provides an interactive and educational journey through Salem’s shipping past. Visitors can explore a reconstructed tall ship, historic buildings, and the museum’s educational visitor center.

$ ▪ Open daily, 9:00am-5:00pm ▪ All ages

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Salem Maritime Museum

   160 Derby St.
   Salem 01970

   Contact:
   978-740-1650
  http://www.nps.gov/sama/index.htm

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Peabody Essex Museum

2010-02-23T14:46:00.003-05:00

Peabody Essex Museum

The Peabody Essex Museum provides visitors with a diverse collection of art from around the world. Its unique collections and educational programs are fun for everyone. Make sure to check the museum’s website as the exhibits frequently change to address new topics.

$$$ (16 and under: FREE) ▪ Open Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00am-5:00pm ▪ All ages

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Peabody Essex Museum

   161 Essex St.
   Salem 01970

   Contact:
   978-745-9500
  http://www.pem.org/

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New England Pirate Museum

2010-02-23T14:38:00.001-05:00

New England Pirate Museum

An educational and entertaining museum that provides you with a glimpse into New England’s pirating past. Visitors will be guided through a pirate ship, treasure room, and pirate cave all while learning the true history of some of the world’s most famous pirates.

$$ ▪ Hours vary. Contact for information. ▪ Ages 13 and under

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New England Pirate Museum

   247 Derby St.
   Salem 01970

   Contact:
   978-741-2800
  http://www.piratemuseum.com/

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Ipswich River

2010-02-23T14:28:00.003-05:00

Ipswich River

Walk, canoe, or just explore the impressive wetlands at Mass Audubon’s largest sanctuary, Ipswich River. There are over ten miles of trails and plenty of interactive programs throughout the year for everyone to enjoy.

$ ▪ Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-4:00pm▪ All ages

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Ipswich River

   87 Perkins Row
   Topsfield 01983

   Contact:
   978-887-9264
  http://www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Ipswich_River/index.php

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Essex Shipbuilding Museum

2010-02-23T14:23:00.001-05:00

Essex Shipbuilding Museum

The Essex shipbuilding Museum is an interactive maritime museum with activities for individuals of all ages. There are educational exhibits, tours of historic buildings, and community classes.

$$ ▪ Hours vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

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Essex Shipbuilding Museum

    66 Main St.
   Essex 01929

   Contact:
   978-768-7541
   http://www.essexshipbuildingmuseum.org/

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"Cry Innocent" Witch Trial

2010-02-16T15:37:00.002-05:00

"Cry Innocent" Witch Trial

Visitors can be the jury in this dramatic reenactment of the first American witch trial.

$$ ▪ Hours vary. Contact for more information ▪ Ages 8 and up

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"Cry Innocent" Witch Trial

    32 Derby Square
   Salem 01970

   Contact:
   978-867-4767
   http://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/11764

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Crane Wildlife Refuge On The Crane Estate

2010-02-16T15:21:00.001-05:00

Crane Wildlife Refuge On The Crane Estate

The Crane Estate, once the magnificent summer residence of industrialist Richard T. Crane, Jr., is now a great place to visit for hikers, boaters, and environmentalists. The refuge is open to visitors and includes a long stretch of coastland and islands.

$$ ▪ Open 8:00am-4:00pm ▪ All ages

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Crane Wildlife Refuge On the Crane Estate

    Argilla Rd.
   Ipswich 01938

   Contact:
   978-356-4351
   http://www.thetrustees.org/crane-estate/

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Cape Ann Museum

2010-02-16T15:07:00.001-05:00

Cape Ann Museum

The Cape Ann Museum showcases fine art, decorative art, and various other collections of art and cultural artifacts. The museum also provides visitors with a basic introduction to Gloucester’s seaside history.

$$ (12 and under: free) ▪ Hours vary. Contact for more information▪ All ages

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Cape Ann Museum

   27 Pleasant St.
   Gloucester 01930

   Contact:
   978-283-0455
  http://www.capeannhistoricalmuseum.org/

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Appleton Farms

2010-02-16T14:20:00.001-05:00

Appleton Farms

Appleton Farms is one of the oldest farms in the country and showcases Massachusetts’s agricultural history. Visitors can explore the farm, walk over six miles of trails, and watch a diverse population of animals roam throughout the grounds.

$ ▪ Open daily, sunrise to sunset ▪ All ages

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Appleton Farms

   Route 1A
   Hamilton 01982

   Contact:
   978-356-5728
  www.Thetrustees.Org/Places-To-Visit/Northeast-Ma/Appleton-Farms.Html

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Longfellow National Historic Site

2010-02-10T09:23:00.001-05:00

Longfellow National Historic Site

The historic home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow now provides visitors with a glimpse into the art and literature of the 19th century through tours and educational programs.

$ (16 and under: FREE) ▪ Hours vary by season. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

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Longfellow National Historic Site

105 Brattle St.
Cambridge, 02138

   Contact:

   617-876-4491

  http://www.nps.gov/long/index.htm

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Kalmus Beach

2010-01-27T12:26:00.001-05:00

Kalmus Beach

Curious to try your hand in wind surfing? Kalmus beach has been rated best for wind-surfing on the Cape. Its consistent breezes and warm Nantucket Sound water draw sailboarders from practically everywhere.

Free ▪ Open during daylight hours, year-round ▪ All ages

Kalmus Beach

   Hyannis 02601

   Contact:
   508-790-9884
  morebeach.com

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Trayser Museum Complex

2010-01-27T12:21:00.001-05:00

Trayser Museum Complex

Featuring a 17th-century jail, the Trayser Museum Complex preserves the unique architectural, cultural and maritime history of the Cape.

$ (10 and under: free) ▪ Open Tuesday-Saturday, May-October 10:00am-3:00pm ▪ All ages

Trayser Museum Complex

   3353 Main St.
   Barnstable 02630

   Contact:
   508-362-8521
  coastguardheritagemuseum.org/Contact_Us.html

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2010-01-27T12:10:00.000-05:00

Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary

Are you interested in learning more about trees and plants? The Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary, 110-acre haven for many species of wildlife, is a great place to go for a walk, take a class, and experience the diverse wildlife found in Barnstable County.

$ ▪ Open daily from dawn to dusk, contact for more information ▪ All ages

Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary

   345 Bone Hill Rd.
   Barnstable 02637

   Contact:
   508-362-7475
  massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Long_Pasture/index.php

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Northfield Mountain

2010-01-24T12:54:00.004-05:00

Northfield Mountain

This pumped storage hydroelectric facility offers four seasons of recreational activities that everyone can enjoy. There is cross country skiing, hiking, and mountain biking on 26 miles of trails; camping, canoeing, kayaking; interpretive riverboat cruises; public environmental and recreation programs; and more!

Prices Vary ▪ Open year-round. Call for more information.▪ All ages

Northfield Mountain
99 Millers Falls Rd.  
Northfield 01360

   Contact:
   413-659-3714
  firstlightpower.com/northfield/default.asp

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Great Falls Discovery Center

2010-01-24T12:26:00.001-05:00

Great Falls Discovery Center

Visit the Great Falls Discovery Center and learn about the Connecticut River Watershed's rich natural, cultural and industrial history. The four-acre park that surrounds The Center has butterfly gardens, native plantings views of the canal and river as well as safe play areas.

Free ▪ Hours Vary. Call for more information. ▪ Ages 10 and up

Great Falls Discovery Center

  2 Avenue A.
  Turners Falls 01376

   Contact:
   413-863-3221
  greatfallsma.org

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Symphony Hall

2010-01-23T13:56:00.001-05:00

Symphony Hall

The 2,611-seat Symphony Hall is home to Broadway-style theatre, top-quality children’s programming, internationally-recognized speakers and numerous concerts and performances. Built in the early 1900s, the historic building underwent an extensive renovation in the fall of 2004.

$$$$$ ▪ See website for performance schedule ▪ All ages

Symphony Hall

  1 Columbus Ctr.
  Springfield 01103

   Contact:
   413-788-7033
  symphonyhall.com

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Springfield Museums - Dr. Seuss National Memorial

2010-01-23T13:52:00.001-05:00

Springfield Museums - Dr. Seuss National Memorial

The five bronze sculptures include Dr. Seuss busily working at his drawing board with the Cat in the Hat standing at his side as his muse, and many other popular Dr. Seuss characters such as Horton the Elephant, Yertle the Turtle, the Grinch and his dog Max, the Lorax, Gertrude McFuzz, Things One and Two, and the lovable Thidwick the Moose.

$$ ▪ 9:00am - 5:00pm ▪ All ages

Dr. Seuss National Memorial

  21 Edwards St.
  Springfield 01105

   Contact:
   413-263-6800
  springfieldmuseums.org

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Springfield Museums - Springfield Science Museum

2010-01-23T13:48:00.003-05:00

Springfield Museums - Springfield Science Museum

Highlights from this science museum include: Dinosaur Hall with a full-size replica of Tyrannosaurus rex; R. E. Phelon African Hall with a huge African elephant, a giraffe, two lions, an ostrich, a rhino and many other animals; Seymour Planetarium where you can take imaginary voyages to the farthest corners of the universe; Astronomy Hall where you can touch rocks from outer space; and Native American Hall where you’ll see how New England Indians used to live.

$$ ▪ 11:00am - 5:00pm ▪ All ages

Springfield Science Museum

  21 Edwards St.
  Springfield 01105

   Contact:
   413-263-6800
  springfieldmuseums.org

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Springfield Museums - George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum

2010-01-23T13:44:00.001-05:00

Springfield Museums - George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum

The George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum is one of the two Springfield Museums dedicated to fine and decorative arts. It represents the personal taste and Victorian aesthetic of the collector whose name it bears. He became a leading 19th-century collector of Chinese, Japanese and Middle Eastern art, and also amassed an outstanding selection of 19th-century American paintings.

$$ ▪ 11:00am - 5:00pm ▪ All ages

George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum

  21 Edwards St.
  Springfield 01105

   Contact:
   413-263-6800
  springfieldmuseums.org

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Springfield Museums - Museum of Springfield History

2010-01-23T13:41:00.002-05:00

Springfield Museums - Museum of Springfield History

The museum interprets Springfield history in the larger context of American history in the 19th and 20th centuries. It includes a collection of Indian Motorcycles and antique cars.

$$ ▪ 11:00am - 5:00pm ▪ All ages

Museum of Springfield History

  21 Edwards St.
  Springfield 01105

   Contact:
   413-263-6800
  springfieldmuseums.org

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Springfield Museums - Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts

2010-01-23T13:30:00.001-05:00

Springfield Museums - Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts

The Michele & Donald D'Amour Museum of Fine Arts presents a strong cross section of American and European paintings, sculpture and works on paper.
Open 11:00am to 4:00pm.

$$ ▪ 11:00am - 5:00pm ▪ All ages

Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts

  21 Edwards St.
  Springfield 01105

   Contact:
   413-263-6800
  springfieldmuseums.org

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The Highlands of Conway Disc Golf Course

2010-01-23T12:15:00.002-05:00

The Highlands of Conway Disc Golf Course

This popular disk golf course utilizes much of its 45 acres to challenge players with natural fairways and elevation changes. Check out their website to get directions and learn more about this great course. For other nearby disc golf courses check out Tully Lake in Royalton and Flat Rock in Athol.

$ - $$ ▪ Open year-round. Call for more information. ▪ All Ages

See website for directions.

The Highlands of Conway Disc Golf Course

  Conway 01314

   Contact:
   617-817-2774
   highlandsdiscgolf.com

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Six Flags

2010-01-22T11:55:00.000-05:00

Six Flags

Six Flags New England is a major theme park with rides for people of all ages. You can check out the #1 steel coaster in the world, Bizarro, explore the water rides at Hurricane Harbor, and so much more!!

$$$$$+ ▪ April-October, 10:30am-5:00pm ▪ All ages

Six Flags

  1623 Main St.
  Agawam 01001

   Contact:
  sixflags.com/newEngland

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Forrest Park Zoo

2010-01-22T10:50:00.001-05:00

Forrest Park Zoo

The Zoo features exotic and indigenous animals representing a large variety of species found in North America and throughout the world. The zoo is dedicated to wildlife education and offers a variety of educational programs and special events for children and adults. Different events almost every weekend allow guests to explore all aspects of science, while having a good time.

$ ▪ 10:00am-5:00pm ▪ All ages

Forrest Park Zoo

  Forrest Park
  Springfield 01108

   Contact:
   413-733-2251
  forestparkzoo.org

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Basketball Hall of Fame

2010-01-22T10:46:00.001-05:00

Basketball Hall of Fame

Since 1959, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has honored and celebrated the game’s greatest moments and brightest stars. Today, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is home to nearly three hundred inductees and more than 40,000 square feet of basketball history.

$$$ ▪ 10:00am-4:00pm ▪ All ages

Basketball Hall of Fame

  1000 West Columbus Ave.
  Springfield 01105

   Contact:
   413-781-6500
  hoophall.com

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Agawam Municipal Golf Course

2010-01-22T10:42:00.000-05:00

Agawam Municipal Golf Course

This public course is located amidst beautiful rolling hills. It offers eighteen full holes. Tee times can be reserved up to a week in advance.

$$$ ▪ Call to reserve a tee time ▪ Ages 9 and up

Agawam Municipal Golf Course

  128 Southwick St.
  Feeding Hills 01030

   Contact:
   413-786-2194
  agawamgc.com

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Veteran’s Field Skate Park

2010-01-21T11:46:00.000-05:00

Veteran’s Field Skate Park

Located in Veteran Field Park, this public skate park is great for in-line skating and skateboarding. It is open during the spring, summer and fall.

Free ▪ Open year round, dawn to dusk ▪ All ages

Veteran’s Field Skate Park

  88 West St.
  Northampton 01060

   Contact:
  northamptonma.gov/recreation/Skate_Park

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Quabbin Reservoir

2010-01-21T11:43:00.000-05:00

Quabbin Reservoir

The reservoir is one of the largest man-made public water supplies in the United States. It offers fishing, hiking, cycling and bird watching.

Free ▪ Open year round, dawn to dusk ▪ All ages

Quabbin Reservoir

  Quabbin Visitor Center, 485 Ware Rd. (Rt. 9)
  Belchertown 01007

   Contact:
   413-323-7221
  mass.gov/dcr/parks/central/quabbin

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Smith College Performing Arts Events

2010-01-21T11:39:00.001-05:00

Smith College Performing Arts Events

Smith College offers a variety of dance, music and theater performances throughout the year.

$-$$ ▪ Hours vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

Smith College Performing Arts Events

  Smith College
  Northampton 01063

   Contact:
   413-585-2787
  smith.edu/smitharts/calendar

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Smith College Botanical Gardens

2010-01-21T11:36:00.001-05:00

Smith College Botanical Gardens

While the living plant specimens are the heart of the Botanic Garden, activities and collections also include books and other resource materials, an international seed exchange, research and conservation, and diverse events.

Free ▪ 8:30am-4:00pm ▪ All ages

Smith College Botanical Gardens

  15 College Ln.
  Northampton 01063

   Contact:
   413-585-2740
  smith.edu/garden/home

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Interskate 91 North Roller Rink

2010-01-21T11:31:00.001-05:00

Interskate 91 North Roller Rink

This is an indoor skating center for both inline and regular quad skates. The roller rink offers a variety of skating sessions and times as well as laser tag and arcade games.

$ ▪ Open year round ▪ All ages

Interskate 91 North Roller Rink

  367 Russell St., Hampshire Mall
  Hadley 01035

   Contact:
   413-586-2737
  interskate91.com/Hadley

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Music at Amherst Concert Series

2010-01-21T11:22:00.002-05:00

Music at Amherst Concert Series

Amherst College draws professional performers in a wide range of genres. You can also hear performances from the college’s many talented faculty and students.

Free, unless otherwise specified ▪ Hours vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

Music at Amherst Concert Series

  Buckley Recital Hall, Amherst College
  Amherst 01002

   Contact:
   413-542-2195
  amherst.edu/academiclife/departments/music/events

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Smith College Museum of Art

2010-01-21T11:16:00.001-05:00

Smith College Museum of Art

This eclectic art museum features art spanning the ages and artists, both local and international. The museum also offers lectures and guided tours.

$ ▪ 10:00am-4:00pm ▪ All ages

Smith College Museum of Art

  Elm St. at Bedford Ter.
  Northampton 01063

   Contact:
   413-585-2760
  smith.edu/artmuseum

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Mead Art Museum

2010-01-21T10:56:00.002-05:00

Mead Art Museum

The museum features an encyclopedic collection of 16,000 works of art from many cultures and historical periods. Best known for its early American portraits, Hudson River School landscapes, and American Impressionist paintings, the collection also includes several ancient Assyrian relief carvings, a selection of European old master paintings, a British Jacobean paneled room, and collections of Yoruba sculpture, Russian pre-Revolutionary Modern art, Mexican folk art, and Japanese prints.

Free ▪ Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00am-12:00pm; Friday and Saturday, 9:00am-5:00pm ▪ All ages

Mead Art Museum

  41 Quadrangle Dr., Amherst College
  Amherst 01002

   Contact:
   413-542-2335
  amherst.edu/museums/meadt

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Bassett Planetarium

2010-01-21T10:52:00.001-05:00

Bassett Planetarium

Explore the Greek and Roman mythologies that gave rise to the names of the constellations. The planetarium also features exhibits on the mechanics and structure of the solar system.

Free ▪ Hours vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

Bassett Planetarium

  165 South Pleasant Street, Amherst College
  Amherst 01002

   Contact:
   413-542-2165
  amherst.edu/museums/bassett

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Amherst College Museum of Natural History

2010-01-21T10:47:00.002-05:00

Amherst College Museum of Natural History

The museum features a variety of displays on vertebrate evolution and extinction, including free standing fossil skeletons of a mammoth, mastodon, dire wolf, saber-toothed cat, Irish Elk and cave bear. See the world’s largest collection of dinosaur tracks (primarily from the Connecticut River Valley), skulls of a Tyrannosaurus rex and a Triceratops, and a diorama with a model showing what some of our local dinosaur species might have looked like.

Free ▪ Tuesday-Sunday, 11:00am-4:00pm ▪ All ages

Amherst College Museum of Natural History

  11 Barrett Hill Rd., Amherst College
  Amherst 01002

   Contact:
   413-542-2165
  amherst.edu/museums/naturalhistory

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Songline Emu Farm

2010-01-20T15:08:00.001-05:00

Songline Emu Farm

The farm’s 20-minute tour explains the origin and evolution of this pre-historic bird. Learn about emu life in the Australian Outback and how they have adapted to New England winters. Hear about egg laying, incubation, hatching and have the opportunity to view emu of various ages on the farm.

$ ▪ May through September, 12:00pm to 4:00pm ▪ All ages

Songline Emu Farm

  66 French King Hwy.
  Gill 01354

   Contact:
   413-863-2700
   songlineemufarm.com

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Poet’s Seat Tower

2010-01-20T14:59:00.000-05:00

Poet’s Seat Tower

From its lofty perch atop Rocky Mountain on the ridge that forms the eastern boundary between Greenfield and the Connecticut River, the tower commands a near 360-degree view of the lush Pioneer Valley.

Free ▪ Open year round, dawn to dusk ▪ All ages

Poet’s Seat Tower

Mountain Rd. and Maple St.
Greenfield 01301

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Mohawk Trail State Forest

2010-01-20T14:45:00.001-05:00

Mohawk Trail State Forest

Mohawk Trail State Forest has 63 miles of unsurpassed splendor and 50,000 acres of state parks and forests. The forest is an excellent choice for fun and adventure for all ages during any season.

$ ▪ Open year round, dawn to dusk ▪ All ages

Mohawk Trail State Forest

  175 Mohawk Tr., Route 2
  Charlemont 01339

   Contact:
   413-339-5504
   mohawktrail.com

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Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens

2010-01-20T14:37:00.002-05:00

Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens

The conservatory features an 8,000-square-foot tropical conservatory
that is home to nearly 4,000 exotic and domestic butterflies. Magic Wings focuses on butterfly-related education, recreation, entertainment and gardening needs.

$$ ▪ Open year round, 9:00am to 5:00pm ▪ All ages

Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens

  281 Greenfield Rd.
  South Deerfield 01373

   Contact:
   413-665-2805
   magicwings.com

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High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary

2010-01-20T14:33:00.000-05:00

High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary protects an extraordinary diversity of native plants. Numerous species of wildflowers can be observed along the 4-mile trail system. The ledge, for which the site is named, offers a panoramic view of the Deerfield River valley and Mt. Greylock, the highest mountain in the state.

$ ▪ Open year round, dawn to dusk ▪ Ages 2 and up

High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary

  Patten Rd.
  Shelburne 01370

   Contact:
   978-464-2712
   massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/High_Ledges

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Goodnow’s Chip and Putt

2010-01-20T14:29:00.000-05:00

Goodnow’s Chip and Putt

Goodnow’s is an 18 hole par 3 chip and putt course. It has a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for beginners and amateurs.

$$$ ▪ Open year round, dawn to dusk ▪ Ages 10 and up

Goodnow’s Chip and Putt

  1211 Mohawk Tr.
  Shelburne Falls 01370

   Contact:
   413-625-6107

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Crab Apple Whitewater Inc.

2010-01-20T14:23:00.000-05:00

Crab Apple Whitewater Inc.

In the northern Berkshires Mountains of Western Massachusetts, Crab Apple Whitewater offers five different white water rafting adventures. River rafting trips range from mild to wild, full or half-day in rafts and inflatable kayaks.

$$$$$+ ▪ Call for reservations ▪ Ages 8 and up

Crab Apple Whitewater Inc.

  2056 Mohawk Tr.
  Charlemont 01339

   Contact:
   800-553-7238
  crabapplewhitewater.com/massachusetts

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Lazer Zone

2010-01-19T15:24:00.002-05:00

Lazer Zone

An entertainment center that boasts Lazer Tag, an arcade, and much more!

$$-$$$▪ See website for hours ▪ All ages

Lazer Zone

  21 Condlin Dr.
  Randolph 02368

   Contact:
   781-961-3300
   lazerzone.net

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Orpheum Theater/Bay Colony Productions

2010-01-19T15:19:00.000-05:00

Orpheum Theater/Bay Colony Productions

Bay Colony Productions showcases community theatre at its best. The theatre company offers productions that appeal to a wide range of audiences, featuring performers of all ages and the highest production value and quality. In addition to main-stage productions, Bay Colony Productions has special events, films, and family entertainment.

$-$$$ ▪ Call for hours ▪ All ages

Orpheum Theater/Bay Colony Productions

  1 School St.
  Foxboro 02035

   Contact:
   508-543-4434
   baycolonyproductions.com

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F. Gilbert Hills State Forest

2010-01-19T15:14:00.000-05:00

F. Gilbert Hills State Forest

Covering 1,027 acres in Foxboro and Wrentham, F. Gilbert Hills is a "passive use" pine and oak forest. There are 23 miles of trails for various uses, looping through the forest.

Free ▪ See website for hours ▪ All ages

F. Gilbert Hills State Forest

  45 Mill St.
  Foxboro 02035

   Contact:
   mass.gov/dcr/parks/southeast/fgil.htm

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Museum of Bad Art

2010-01-19T15:08:00.000-05:00

Museum of Bad Art

The Museum of Bad Art (MOBA) is the world's only museum dedicated to the collection, preservation, exhibition and celebration of bad art in all its forms.

Free ▪ Hours Vary. Contact for more information pm ▪ All ages

Museum of Bad Art

  580 High St. (Dedham Community Theater)
  Dedham 02026

   Contact:
   781-444-6757
   museumofbadart.org

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Davis Museum and Cultural Center

2010-01-19T15:00:00.003-05:00

Davis Museum and Cultural Center

The Davis Museum and Cultural Center is characterized by collections that span global history from Ancient times to yesterday. With masterpieces from almost every continent, with collections installed in one of this country’s most significant examples of museum architecture, and with a rotating series of temporary exhibitions that challenge our understanding of history and the role of the arts in society, the museum provides an exciting environment to see, hear, experience and learn about the visual arts.

Free ▪ Hours Vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

Davis Museum and Cultural Center

  Wellesley College
  106 Central St.
  Wellesley 02481

   Contact:
   781-283-2051

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Babson Skating Center

2010-01-19T14:55:00.000-05:00

Babson Skating Center

Public ice skating rink at Babson College.

$-$$ ▪ See website for hours ▪ All ages

Babson Skating Center

  150 Great Plain Ave.
  Wellesley 02482

   Contact:
   781-239-6056
  Babson Skating Center

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United First Parish Church

2010-01-19T14:51:00.003-05:00

United First Parish Church

This church holds the remains of the two Adams presidents and their wives. The tour includes a visit to the sanctuary, the president’s pew (which you can sit in), and their crypt. The building was erected in 1828 during John Q. Adams’s presidency. Both Adams presidents were members of the congregation.

Free ▪ Hours Vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

United First Parish Church

  1306 Hancock St.
  Quincy 02169

   Contact:
   617-773-1290

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Fairbanks House

2010-01-19T14:41:00.002-05:00

Fairbanks House

The Fairbanks House in Dedham, MA is thought to be the oldest standing timber frame building in North America. Built circa 1637-1641 for Jonathan and Grace Fairebanke and their six children, it was home to eight generations of the Fairbanks family. The Fairbanks House is now a historic house museum.

$ ▪ Open to the public for tours from May-October ▪ All ages

Fairbanks House

  511 East St.
  Dedham 02026

   Contact:
   781-326-1170
  fairbankshouse.org

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Cape Cod Canal

2010-01-17T13:50:00.001-05:00

Cape Cod Canal

The canal, built during the Great Depression, became and remains the widest sea-level canal without locks in the world. Whether its business, biking, boating, baseball, beaches or beautiful B & B’s, the Cape Cod Canal Region has it all!

Free ▪ Open year-round during daylight hours ▪ All ages

Cape Cod Canal

    70 Main St.
   Buzzards Bay 02532

   Contact:
   508-759-6000
  capecodcanalchamber.com

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Cape Cod Baseball League

2010-01-17T13:39:00.001-05:00

Cape Cod Baseball League

The Cape Cod Baseball League is a non profit that prides itself on creating affordable family entertainment. Baseball is one of America's favorite sports. Why not spend an afternoon watching a little bit of competition!

Free ▪ Open year-round ▪ All ages

Cape Cod Baseball League

    195 High School Rd.
   Hyannis 02601

   Contact:
  capecodbaseball.org

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Blue Hills Trailside Museum

2010-01-16T15:21:00.009-05:00

Blue Hills Trailside Museum

The Blue Hills Trailside Museum is the interpretive center for the state’s 7,000-acre Blue Hills Reservation and is managed by Mass Audubon. Indoor exhibits feature wildlife you may see while exploring the reservation’s 150 miles of trails. Outside the museum, stroll through exhibits featuring native wildlife such as wild turkeys, red-tailed hawks, and a snowy owl.

Free ▪ Hours Vary. Contact for more information ▪ All ages

Blue Hills Trailside Museum

   1904 Canton Ave.
  Milton 02186

   Contact:
   617-698-1802


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Adams National Historic Site

2010-01-16T15:12:00.001-05:00

Adams National Historic Site

Preserves the home of Presidents of the United States John Adams and John Quincy Adams; of U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain, Charles Francis Adams; and of the writers and historians Henry Adams and Brooks Adams.

Free - $ ▪ Open April 19 – November 10, 9:00am – 5:00pm, seven days a week ▪ All ages

Adams National Historic Site

   135 Adams St.
  Quincy 02169

   Contact:
   617-770-1175
   nps.gov/adam/index.htm

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Sports Museum of New England

2010-01-16T14:50:00.000-05:00

Sports Museum of New England

The exhibits at the Sports Museum of New England focus on the history of various sports in the Boston area, including the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, New England Patriots, Boston Bruins and the Boston Marathon. The museum features diverse sports memorabilia, curiosities, and life size sculptures of Larry Bird and Ted Williams by Rhode Island sculptor Armand LaMontagne.

$ ▪ Open every day from 10:00am – 4:00pm ▪ All ages

Sports Museum of New England

  TD Banknorth Center
  1 Legends Way
  Boston 02114

   Contact:
   617-624-1234
  sportsmuseum.org

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USS Constitution Museum

2010-01-16T14:43:00.000-05:00

USS Constitution Museum

Only yards away from “Old Ironsides,” the Museum is a "must see" for everyone visiting Boston. Interactive galleries take adults, families and children of all ages on a 200-year voyage.

Free ▪ April 1 – October 31, 9:00am to 6:00pm; November 1 – March 31, 10:00am to 5:00pm ▪ All ages

USS Constitution Museum

  Charlestown Navy Yard
  Building 22
  Charlestown 02129

   Contact:
   617-426-1812
  ussconstitutionmuseum.org

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New England Aquarium

2010-01-16T14:38:00.001-05:00

New England Aquarium

The New England Aquarium is a global leader in ocean exploration and marine conservation. The Aquarium is one of the premier visitor attractions in Boston, with over 1.3 million visitors a year, and a major public education resource.

$$ ▪ Fall & Winter Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm; Saturday – Sunday, 9:00am – 6:00pm ▪ All ages

New England Aquarium

  1 Central Wharf
  Boston 02110

   Contact:
   617-973-5200
   neaq.org

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Museum of Science

2010-01-16T14:34:00.001-05:00

Museum of Science

Along with over 500 interactive exhibits, the Museum of Science features a number of live presentations throughout the building everyday, along with shows at the Charles Hayden Planetarium and the Mugar Omni IMAX theater

$$ ▪ Saturday – Thursday, 9:00am – 5:00pm; Friday, 9:00am – 9:00pm ▪ All ages

Museum of Science

  1 Science Park
  Boston 02114

   Contact:
   617-723-2500
   mos.org

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Museum of Fine Arts

2010-01-16T14:29:00.001-05:00

Museum of Fine Arts

The MFA is one of the most comprehensive art museums in the world; the collection encompasses nearly 450,000 works of art. Come experience art from ancient Egyptian to contemporary, special exhibitions, and innovative educational programs.

$-$$ ▪ Open seven days a week ▪ All ages

Museum of Fine Arts

  465 Huntington Ave.
  Boston 02115

   Contact:
   617-267-9300
   mfa.org

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The Institute Of Contemporary Art

2010-01-16T14:26:00.010-05:00

The Institute Of Contemporary Art

The Institute of Contemporary Art strives to share the pleasures of reflection, inspiration, provocation, and imagination that contemporary art offers through public access to art, artists, and the creative process.

$$ (17 and under: free) ▪ Tuesday and Wednesday 10:00am – 5:00pm; Thursday and Friday 10:00am – 9:00pm; Saturday and Sunday 10:00am – 5:00pm ▪ All ages

The Institute Of Contemporary Art

  100 Northern Ave.
  Boston 02210

   Contact:
   617-478-3100
   icaboston.org

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Freedom Trail

2010-01-16T14:21:00.000-05:00

Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile red-brick walking trail that leads you to 16 nationally significant historic sites, every one an authentic American treasure. The Freedom Trail is a unique collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, parks, a ship, and historic markers that tell the story of the American Revolution and beyond.

Free ▪ Open seven days per week ▪ All ages

Freedom Trail

  Boston 02210

   Contact:
   617-357-8300
   thefreedomtrail.org
See website for trail location

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