Massachusetts has cold winters and warm to sticky hot summers. July and August temperatures can reach the low 30s (C), but this is also the high tourist season and Massachusetts flights and accommodations can be pricey. September and October are typically mild and sunny. November is the start of winter, which lasts through February. January temperatures can go drop below zero to the negative teens. The average snowfall is 106cm, with most of it falling in the central and western regions.The coast is milder in winter and cooler in summer. The Berkshires are cooler year-round.
Getting around Massachusetts
Massachusetts is well-serviced by public transportation. Trains and buses leave from Boston to the north shore, central and western Massachusetts, and the south shore. There is also bus and ferry service to Cape Cod, ferry service to Nantucket and Cuttyhunk, and Nantucket Airlines offers Massachusetts flights from Hyannis to Nantucket.
Once at your destination, walking is generally the preferred method for seeing the sights. To cover distance quickly in Boston, take the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA or the “T”). The T is second only to taking a cab for getting around Boston and Cambridge and parts of Brookline.
Bicycling is also popular throughout the state, although it can be risky in city traffic. Provincetown has the Province Lands Bike Trail that is difficult but has great scenery. Cambridge is more bicycle friendly with bike lanes on most roads.
Martha’s Vineyard has heavy traffic in the summer and provides shuttles, buses, and bikes to get you around the island.
Driving around the state is always an option. Try to avoid driving in the cities as Massachusetts drivers are as rude as they are reputed to be, and especially try to avoid rush hour.