Ever been up close and personal with a 50-foot, 40-ton whale? Once you have, it's an experience you won't soon forget.
That experience can be yours in Massachusetts, one of the top-ten whale-watching spots in the world, according to the World Wildlife Fund. On a real New England whale-watching expedition, alongside onboard naturalists, you'll head out roughly 25 miles off the coast to Stellwagen Bank and be treated to awe-inspiring sights of humpback, pilot and blue whales breaching and spouting through the deep blue Atlantic Ocean.
Note: Whale-watching charters typically run from April to October, so if you are interested in taking one, you may want to plan your visit to the Bay State during the warmer months of the year.
The whaling industry's beginnings can be traced back to the late 17th century on Nantucket Island. Explore its history at the Nantucket Whaling Museum...Then head a little north to New Bedford, the dominant whaling port in the mid-19th century, where you'll find the New Bedford Whaling Museum and New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park.
May 23, 2008 Over 100 works by 70 Massachusetts artists who preserve deeply rooted traditions.
May 24, 2008 Amateurs and professionals compete for the coveted prize.
May 15, 2008 Visit Lowell's historic buildings and studios linked by theme. Through May 18.
May 9, 2008 Wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres from Harwich's finest restaurants and exhibits by local artists.

