Recreation & Entertainment
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Massachusetts offers tremendous opportunities for recreation and entertainment. While its economy is primarily industrial, tourism has become a great source of revenue in Massachusetts. The Commonwealth boasts many historical sites, state and national parks, and a thriving sports industry. The state is the birthplace of both basketball and volleyball.
The Bay State contains a broad spectrum of recreational possibilities, whether natural or cultural. Some noteworthy museums include the Museum of Fine Art in Boston, Harvard University Art Museums in Cambridge, the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, and the Kendall Whaling Museum in Sharon, among dozens of other museums. For music lovers, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1881, offers another season of music excellence. Science and nature lovers can indulge in the Franklin Park Zoo of Boston and the Stone Zoo of Stoneham. Other educational centers include the New England Aquarium and the Museum of Science (http://www.mos.org/), both in Boston. The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife provides resources and education for programs about wildlife and other natural resources. Massachusetts is also known for its rural charm. Many farms and wineries can be toured to provide first-hand looks at the growing area of agri-tourism. The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources offers an extensive list of farms and wineries throughout Massachusetts.
Massachusetts has many state parks, as well as numerous national historical parks and national park areas. These include the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the Cape Cod National Seashore, the Boston Harbor Islands, the Blackstone River Valley Natural Heritage Corridor, the Boston National Historical Park, the John F. Kennedy National Historical Site, the Minute Men National Historical Park, Springfield Armory National Historical Site, the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Wild and Scenic Rivers, and several other sites and areas. Experience history on foot via the Freedom Trail and the Black Heritage Trail. The Berkshires also provide ample opportunities for winter skiing at such resorts as Berkshire East Ski Area, Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, and Ski Butternut.
Massachusetts can be described as a sports lover’s dream. In 2004, the Boston Red Sox made history by winning the World Series at Fenway Park. The Boston Celtics, New England Patriots, Boston Bruins, and the New England Revolution provide seasons of excitement. Additionally, runners from around the world compete in the famed Boston Marathon, the world's oldest annual marathon.
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