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Return to Local Secrets, Big Finds homeView 2005 Local Secrets, Big Finds
Glass Flowers Photos courtesy of Harvard Museum of Natural History.
Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University
Boston
617.524.1718
Take a free tour of the grounds or go straight to Peter's Hill, "the third highest point within Boston's city limits." Come here during Independence Day and, "you can watch the famous Boston fireworks and those of the surrounding communities without the crowds." Don't be surprised to find "locals gathered with blankets, coolers, pets, and strollers." The Park Rangers even "usually broadcast the live performance of the Boston Pops over their truck radios." Also, every May, they host Lilac Sunday, which "is the most fragrant and floral experience you can imagine." Read more.
The Ware Collection of Blaschka Glass Models of Plants
Cambridge
617.495.3045
Housed in the Harvard Museum of Natural History, the Glass Flowers "are just what they sound like: hundreds of incredibly intricate and beautiful blown glass models of flowers." The flowers "were created for Harvard University by a 19th century German craftsmen as an educational tool for teaching botany students." When you get close, you'll see that "the accuracy and detail are astounding." Keep your eyes peeled because "it's practically hidden away in an old building on the Harvard campus."
Hingham Lobster Pound
Hingham
781.749.1984
Sitting "on a curve in the road with little parking and no place to eat inside, Hingham Lobster Pound is a hidden gem." From the fried clams to the fish and chips (and don't forget the banana fritters), "it's by far the best, freshest example of local seafood." This "counter-only, seasonal restaurant" fosters the long-held "local tradition of how families along the cost of New England to eat fried seafood."
Hu Ke Lau Polynesian Restaurant
Chicopee
413.593.5222
No two visits to Hu Ke Lau are the same, but you can count on "fantastic Chinese food and a themed dinner show with fire dancers." According to people who've been to traditional luaus, "shows here are better than a luau in Hawaii!" You'll find "authentic Samoan performers singing and dancing to a variety of favorite Pacific Island songs." A night here is "a kitschy-good time with great food (triple lobster special), huge portions, and potent drinks--including the Scorpion Bowl for two." Read more.
Crane Beach
Ipswich
978.356.4354
Described as "the most picturesque beach in the whole state," the white sands of Crane Beach stretch for miles, "inviting swimmers to relax and enjoy the scenery." It's a "nature lover's paradise" and a protected nesting site for the threatened piping plover bird. Take the family for a day of sandcastles and swimming, or seek out a romantic spot for lovebirds. Seclusion won't be hard to find. Pack a picnic lunch and relax in the sun after meandering the beachfront trails. Read more.
Before you make plans to experience these local secrets for yourself, we suggest that you contact them to confirm dates, times, and locations. We are not responsible for the information submitted to us, and disclaim any liability for the information. Additionally, the addresses for or links to third party Web sites are provided for your convenience only. These Web sites, their owners, and operators are not affiliated or associated in any way with Travelocity, and we assume no responsibility for the content of such sites, or for any of your transactions or experiences with the owners and operators of such sites.
