Enjoy free, fun Fridays in Massachusetts

Growing up in Boston, home of the Red Sox, Celtics, and Bruins, I can say it’s a city full of endless buzz, distinct accents, and unbelievable camaraderie. Fenway, Faneuil Hall, and the Boston Commons are all attractions that top a visitor’s must-see list. But as I pass through crowds of tourists, I wonder if any of them have ventured out to other places in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts is known for its rich involvement in history, shaping much of the American history and culture. Who can forget the infamous Salam witch trials, the Battle of Bunker Hill, or Paul Revere’s famous Midnight Ride? Believe it or not, a lot of these historical events happened outside of Boston!

Luckily, the Highland Street Foundation of Massachusetts has kindly mapped out other must-see attractions in the Bay State. Here’s the best part: admission is FREE!

Every Friday until August 26, 2011, you can enjoy a variety of different cultural destinations while learning a bit of US history with your family. Listed below are a just a few highlighted places I recommend visiting!

July 22, 2011 – Norman Rockwell Museum

9 Route 183 – Stockbridge, MA

Famous for capturing American history through his illustrations, such as Rosie the Riveter and the Four Freedoms series, Norman Rockwell lives through his artwork at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA. As you admire his creations, you can find influences from World War II in many of his modern themes and motif. You’ll have fun talking a visual walk through American history at the Norman Rockwell Museum!

July 29, 2011 – American Textile History Museum

491 Dutton Street – Lowell, MA

Have you ever wondered what it was like to work in a textile mill during the heart of the Industrial Revolution? At the American Textile History Museum in Lowell, MA, you can learn how assembly lines were set up to make lavish, old-fashioned dresses, uniforms, and quilts. This museum also features beautiful modern day creations that will inspire your family to weave their own creations!

August 5, 2011 – Concord Museum

53 Cambridge Turnpike – Concord, MA

In the early 17^th century, the Puritans chose to settle and grow their colony in what is now known as Concord, Massachusetts. At the Concord Museum, you can learn all about the town’s history from the settlement, to the start of the American Revolution, to present-day Concord. Garnished will different exhibitions displaying Native American artifacts and relics from the Revolution, there’s no way you’ll get bored at this museum!

August 12, 2011 – Stone Zoo

149 Pond Street – Stoneham

If your family is tired from all the sight-seeing and walking around town, visiting the Stone Zoo will be a nice change of pace! Look at exotic animals, take fun pictures, and learn all about wildlife together as a family. The Stone Zoo is a sure crowd pleaser for all ages!

August 19, 2011 – Basketball Hall of Fame

1000 West Columbus Avenue – Springfield, MA

Have any sports fanatics in your family? Admire all the legendary inducted hall of famers such as Larry Bird, Kareen Abdul-Jabbar, and Magic Johnson as you wander through all the endless exhibits. Learn about the players’ lives, careers, and highlights while you envision your own name in the hall someday!

August 26, 2011 – Old Sturbridge Village

1 Sturbridge Village Road – Sturbridge, MA

Put away the MP3 players, smart phones, and any other gadget you brought along (except your camera!) and visit Old Sturbridge Village for a taste of antique living. You won’t find the staff wearing jeans here! Instead, everyone dresses in authentic 19^th century costumes while they great you at each exhibit. Take a look at old meetinghouses, shoe shops, and gristmills as you travel back in time!

Check out the Highland Street Foundation website for more information on Free Fun Fridays in Massachusetts and a full list of events.

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