3 Charming Massachusetts Towns With A Slower Pace Of Life

Here's a true statement for many people, Massachusetts residents included. Life nowadays brings the word "stressful" to a whole new level. Sure, not for everyone, but I feel the vast majority of people would describe their daily routine as very PRESSURED.

Is "pressured" a good word? How about "taxing"? "Demanding"? Oh, I know. "Nerve-racking." That's more like it. The bottom line is most of us could use a change of pace for a little while. A break and a breather.

You might be surprised to learn that Massachusetts has a few towns where life moves at a slower pace, allowing you to take it all in and actually BREATHE. What a concept, right?

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If you really think about it, it makes a lot of sense. Massachusetts as a whole is filled with beautiful scenery, lots of hiking trails, plenty of cultural attractions, quaint gift and antique shops, great music, and hordes of great restaurants.

Recently, WorldAtlas offered up a list of great, leisurely-paced towns where you can escape the daily hustle and bustle for a stretch. I'll narrow their list down a little and give you three examples. Two of them are in Western Massachusetts, one's near Boston.

3 MASSACHUSETTS TOWNS WITH A SLOWER PACE OF LIFE:

1.WENDELL, FRANKLIN COUNTY

If you're looking for a peaceful getaway (and let's face it, who isn't?), the beautiful town of Wendell has what you need. With Wendell State Forest, you've got plenty of space for relaxing walks or even a vigorous hike if you're up for it.

Isn't that just calming? Seriously. It practically whispers, "relax." Onto our next stop:

2.HOPKINTON, MIDDLESEX COUNTY

Many of you may already be familiar with the city of Hopkinton if you've ever run the Boston Marathon or went as a spectator. Hopkinton might be best known as the starting point of the marathon, but it has so much more going for it.

For instance, there's Hopkinton State Park where you can go kayaking. If that's too fast-paced, find a nice secluded spot, throw a blanket down and have a picnic. If wandering through museums is more your thing, visit the Hopkinton Historical Society and binge on some Hopkinton History! Our third and final stop:

3.WILLIAMSTOWN, BERKSHIRE COUNTY

I know, I know. Here's a town right in our own backyard. But even locals sometimes forget all the cool things to see and do (and eat!) in Williamstown. It really is a great spot for spending a day or three just exploring!

I'm not kidding. You want to browse a cozy bookstore? Williamstown's got 'em! Check out some art at the Williams College Museum of Art or the Clark Art Institute. Browse some boutiques, grab a bite at Mezze Bistro + Bar, or just stand still and gaze at the natural beauty that is Mount Greylock.

There you have it, folks. Three Massachusetts' towns with a slower pace of life. WorldAtlas' list actually has 10 towns! Visit their website here to check out the complete list.