The most wonderful time of year can be even more magical when you attend a European Christmas market. Popular in cities such as Brussels, Vienna, Cologne, and Prague, these open-air events are held during Advent, the four weeks before Christmas, beginning in late November or early December. Mazes of rustic wooden stalls feature vendors selling mulled wine, traditional foods such as bratwurst or latkes, gingerbread cookies and other sugary treats, toys, handcrafted ornaments, and holiday décor often made of carved wood or blown-glass. But if you can’t jet across the Atlantic to experience the festivities firsthand, these destinations across the U.S. host similar markets so everyone can join in the fun. 

Christkindlmarkt – Frankenmuth, Michigan

Walking the streets of Frankenmuth, you may feel like you’re in Germany, so it’s no wonder this city stages a spectacular European Christmas market. The town was established in 1845 by a group of 15 Lutheran immigrants from the Franconian region of Germany, who brought their Bavarian culture with them. The settlers built a log church-school and developed a community known for its brewing, milling, and cheese-making, and their holiday traditions also remained very much alive. 

Today, the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, is located in Frankenmuth, and the world’s oldest school for Santa Clauses in training is in nearby Midland. The German settlement also hosts Christkindlmarkt, with more than 100 vendors selling produce and goods from local farms, alongside pastries, Christmas ornaments in all shapes and colors, and other festive treasures. The event features glockenspiel performances, a holiday parade, horse-drawn carriage rides, riverboat cruises, visits with Santa, and an ice-skating rink. 

Julefest – Solvang, California

Nestled in Southern California’s Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang is known for its Danish heritage, evident from the numerous half-timbered buildings with thatched roofs and windmills across town. Founded in 1911 by three Danish immigrants, the city honors its Scandinavian roots with Julefest, a festive event featuring a tree-lighting ceremony, live caroling, ballet performances, and a maker’s market with local produce, flowers, and Danish pastries and handicrafts for sale.

Christkindlmarkt – Carmel, Indiana

Come Christmas, this suburban city just outside Indianapolis goes into full holiday cheer mode. Carmel lives up to its sweet name with Christkindlmarkt, a German-inspired market featuring a massive outdoor skating rink and more than 60 huts selling fare such as Bavarian pretzels and almond-filled pastries, along with ornaments and other Yuletide trinkets. Award-winning displays and live demonstrations by artisans ensure this event is one you won’t want to miss if you’re looking to experience Christmas in the Midwest.

Old World Christmas Market – Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Indoor festivities are the norm in Wisconsin come winter, which is why the village of Elkhart Lake in Sheboygan County goes all out to give residents a festive place to warm up. Hosted at the Osthoff Resort and Spa, a four-star accommodation on the water, the Old World Christmas Market was inspired by the centuries-old Christkindlesmarkt in Nüremberg, Germany. It features 95 vendors in a heated tent selling goods made by local artisans, with the scent of fresh evergreens and roasting almonds wafting through the air. Attendees can dance to German folk music and be merry while they indulge in traditional German fare, beers, and gluhwein (mulled wine).

Christkindlmarkt – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, looks a little different from the birthplace of Jesus Christ, which inspired the city’s name. For starters, the event is set against the backdrop of a former steel plant that was converted to an entertainment venue nicknamed “SteelStacks.” There aren’t any donkeys or sheep lying by the manger, either, but the German-inspired market features the chance to have breakfast with St. Nick, a holiday martini tasting, glass-blowing demonstrations, and even holiday speed-dating. Attendees can fill their bellies with beer, mac and cheese, and mashed potato balls before wandering among the many stalls selling some of the most creative Christmas gifts in the region.

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair – Daly City, California

Located immediately south of San Francisco along the Pacific Coast Highway, Daly City hosts a holiday festival that first launched in 1970 and was inspired by Victorian England. The Great Dickens Christmas Fair is held each season inside the historic Cow Palace, which has been a hub for live entertainment in the Bay Area since 1941. Try the port, chocolate, and Champagne tastings or a pub crawl as you interact with hundreds of costumed performers in Victorian-era garb. Theatrically lit shops reminiscent of London sell handmade gifts as well as books and festive treats like roasted chestnuts.

Christkindlmarket – Chicago, Illinois

Chicago goes big with its Christkindlmarket. You can experience it at three locations — in downtown Chicago, the Wrigleyville neighborhood on the city’s north side, and the western suburb of Aurora. No matter which one you visit, the Windy City promises an event to remember, with free admission to the magic.

The event dates back to 1995, when the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest was seeking alternative ways to promote bilateral trade between the U.S. and Germany. The outdoor market was officially launched in Pioneer Court the following year. Since then, millions have flocked to the authentic wooden stalls to peruse the array of imported ornaments, mugs, and Bavarian souvenirs from Europe. In addition to Santa Claus, you can take pictures with Krampus, the legendary half-goat, half-monster figure popular around Christmastime in Germany and Eastern Europe. 

In recent years, as some states have declined in population, others have attracted a significant number of new residents. At first glance, the country’s fastest-growing states seem to share certain characteristics, like warmer climates and better affordability. But these booming states also offer a host of other benefits that travelers can take advantage of, from beautiful national parks to unique food and art scenes. Check out the five fastest-growing states in America, according to the latest available data for 2024 from the Pew Research Center, and see why they’re great places to both live and visit.

5. Nevada

Nevada is the fifth-fastest-growing state in the country, with a year-over-year population growth of 1.65% in 2024. Many new Nevada residents relocated from nearby states; data shows that nearly 42,000 people from California alone moved to Nevada in 2023. 

While Las Vegas, the state’s largest city, is an obvious draw for new residents (and visitors from all over the world), many people — and not just gamblers — are also choosing to live in Reno. The “Biggest Little City in the World” provides an ideal mix of outdoor recreation in the nearby Sierra Nevada, while also serving as a hub for culture with a vibrant Arts District. Many of the art installations from the famous Burning Man festival (which takes place about 120 miles north) have found permanent homes in Reno, and self-led and guided tours of these installations are available to visitors.

4. South Carolina

South Carolina has proved to be quite popular in recent years, with a 2024 population growth of 1.69%. (In comparison, just a few states over, West Virginia saw negative growth of -0.03%.) The Palmetto State’s affordability makes it appealing to new residents, with housing costs that remain lower than the national average. In addition to this lower cost of living, South Carolina has plenty to offer in the way of natural beauty — including a diverse coastline of sandy shores, barrier islands, swamps, tidal marshes, and creeks. 

The state’s history is also expansive, from Civil War sites like Fort Sumter to the Gullah Trail, which explores the heritage of Gullah traditions, carried on by the descendants of enslaved West African peoples. If you’re looking to experience a unique regional cuisine, South Carolina’s low-country dishes focus on local and fresh seafood like shrimp, crab, and oysters. 

3. Utah

An additional 50,000 people moved to the Beehive State between 2023 and 2024, representing a 1.75% increase. About 70% of this growth was spread across three counties near the Wasatch Front, home to Salt Lake City, which may suggest that the mountains are at least partially responsible for the state’s allure. 

The rest of the state continues to offer residents and visitors experiences that simply can’t be found elsewhere. For history buffs, numerous petroglyphs are located throughout Utah, providing a perfect excuse for an anthropology-themed road trip. And since Utah is home to the highest number of International Dark Sky Parks, stargazing in Utah remains unmatched. Don’t skip Dinosaur National Monument, where you can check out the dinosaur fossils by day and see the Milky Way like you’ve never seen it before by night. 

2. Texas

The Lone Star State certainly can’t be described as lonesome, with a 1.83% year-over-year population growth in 2024 and more than 2 million new residents added between 2020 and 2024. A combination of a mild climate and affordable housing seems to be part of Texas’ secret sauce — although good barbecue doesn’t hurt, either. Check out the Burnt Bean Co., about an hour south of Austin, to get a taste of what competitive pitmasters create when they join forces (though be prepared to wait in line). 

With Texas’ increased population, its national parks have also seen notable growth — Big Bend had 61,458 visitors in 2024. If you’re seeking a quieter experience, check out Guadalupe Mountains National Park, which has the same stunning vistas but smaller crowds.

1. Florida

Florida is booming faster than any other state in the country, with a 2.04% growth rate and an estimated population of 23.2 million people in 2024. Warm winters and abundant sunshine are likely Florida’s biggest benefits, and the state’s lack of income tax (like Nevada and Texas) makes it more affordable. 

Many visitors flock to popular destinations like the Florida Keys, which offers up a mix of white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back living. But Florida also hosts a wealth of history, with cities like St. Augustine showcasing the state’s unique past through historic architecture, a Spanish military fort, and charming cobblestone streets. And don’t skip the Everglades, one of the largest wetlands and most interesting ecosystems in the country, best explored by airboat.

Alaska is known as the “Last Frontier,” a vast wilderness of deep fjords, jagged peaks, majestic glaciers, and remote towns built around the oil industry, fur trading, and fishing. The state also has one of the world’s most unusual economic policies. Every year, Alaska residents receive a slice of the state’s oil wealth — no strings attached. Let’s take a look at the fascinating history of this idea, exactly who benefits, and the knock-on effects for travelers visiting Alaska. 

An Idea That Changed Alaska

In 1867, U.S. Secretary of State William Seward finalized a deal to pay Russia $7.2 million for the Alaskan territory. Many mocked the decision, calling it “Seward’s Folly,” with the view that the remote territory was little more than a barren wasteland. For decades, the region functioned mainly as a fur trading outpost, but that changed in 1896 with the short-lived Klondike gold rush. However, even by the 1960s, Alaska remained sparsely populated, with its economy relying on commercial fishing and a growing military presence.

A huge shift in Alaska’s fortunes occurred in 1968, when an estimated 9.6 million barrels of recoverable crude oil were discovered in Prudhoe Bay, triggering a job boom as well as global interest in Alaska. Oil money became the catalyst for a radical idea: the announcement of the state-owned Alaska Permanent Fund following a 1976 vote. Essentially, it’s a long-term investment fund fueled by oil revenues, with the goal of every Alaskan benefiting from an annual dividend.

The Arrival of the Dividend

Although the concept was simple, the path to the first Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) wasn’t altogether straightforward. In 1980, lawmakers approved legislation proposing that all adult Alaska residents should receive $50 for every year they had lived in the state since 1959. However, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled it unconstitutional because it created an unfair preference for long-term residents. In response, the state Legislature passed a law guaranteeing equal payments to anyone living in Alaska for at least six months. In June 1982, qualifying Alaskans were the lucky recipients of a $1,000 check. 

One of the core philosophies behind the dividend fund was to reframe how resource wealth could be shared. Rather than seeing oil riches disappear into government accounts, Alaskans would reap the rewards of the natural resources extracted from their land. For many people, it’s viewed not as a government handout or welfare, but more akin to shared ownership and return on a valuable public asset. The idea is simple: When a place prospers, those who call it home should, too. 

Who Actually Gets a Check? And How Much?

Though the original rule required six-month residency, the current eligibility requirement was established in 1990. To receive a dividend, applicants need to be an Alaska resident for an entire calendar year and have intent to remain indefinitely. They must be physically present in the state for 180 days out of the year and not hold any other state or country residency. Everyone from children and adults can claim a dividend check. (Child payments are directed to a nominated custodian until the child turns 18.)  

The annual payout isn’t a fixed amount; rather, it can rise or fall according to several factors. These include how many residents qualify and apply on time, along with the performance of the Alaska Permanent Fund’s investments. The highest dividend amount to date is $3,284, paid in 2022, and the lowest was $331.29 in 1984. In 2025, the amount will be an even $1,000.

The Bigger Picture

For many Alaska residents, the PFD is more than just a yearly windfall — it’s a reliable financial boost that can significantly improve their quality of life. In a state where many towns and communities are remote and seasonal work is common, the extra cash can help cover winter heating and travel expenses, among other year-end bills. Local business owners can feel a boost, too, with shops and restaurants able to stock up and potentially serve more customers. Studies have found that it also has helped to reduce poverty levels among Indigenous populations and more vulnerable Alaskans. 

Benefits for Tourism

While big cities like Anchorage are a big draw, Alaska’s tourism map also runs through small towns that often have to operate in extreme conditions. While the dividend doesn’t directly impact the state’s travel industry, it can provide a welcome bonus to the people and communities who run it, especially in these more remote corners. 

For example, in Seward, a major gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, local operators might have a stronger financial footing to reopen earlier in spring. Year-round residents in Healy can use the funds to increase the availability of guides for hiking, biking, dog-sledding, and snowmobiling in Denali National Park and Reserve. Similarly, Homer, located on Kachemak Bay, is better equipped for running halibut fishing charters and tours to Kachemak Bay State Park thanks to the dividend checks that local operators receive. 

Food fads come and go — no one’s lining up for liver and onions or tapioca pudding these days — but the sandwich has remained at the top of the charts since the first human slapped some form of tasty filling between two pieces of bread. And although sandwiches exist around the world, immigrants brought their favorites to American cities over the years, creating what’s arguably the best sandwich culture on Earth. Here are eight great sandwiches and the cities that wouldn’t be the same without them.

Cuban – Miami, Florida

Unsurprisingly, the Cuban sandwich originated in Cuba, derived from the popular sandwich mixto. Consisting of roast pork (often marinated in citrusy mojo sauce), ham, cheese, mustard, and pickles (the sole nod to vegetables) and served on buttered pressed Cuban bread, the mixto made its way north with Cuban immigrants from the streets of Havana to Florida. 

The Tampa version of a Cuban adds salami, a contribution from the city’s many Italian immigrants, while in Key West you’ll often find mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato added. But Miami proudly claims the title of “Cuban Sandwich Capital,” and it’s hard to find one that’s not simply delicioso. Favorite spots include Sanguich, which cures their own ham, makes their own mustard, and brines their own pickles, and Puerto Sagua, which has been serving them for decades.

Muffaletta – New Orleans, Louisiana

Whether you pronounce it “moofaletta” or “muffaletta” (or spell it muffaletta or muffuletta) is a matter of taste, but this scrumptious New Orleans sandwich is a winner any way you say it. It was invented in the early 1900s by Salvatore Lupo, a Sicilian immigrant and proprietor of the French Quarter’s Central Grocery. Italian workers in a hurry would come in and order lunches of bread, cheese, meat, and olives — Lupo invented the time-saving recipe that combines them all.

The classic is served on a round of sesame seed-speckled Italian bread, with layers of ham, salami, mortadella, Swiss cheese, Provolone, and a briny marinated olive salad filled with chopped olives and other pickled vegetables. 

Hot Chicken – Nashville, Tennessee

Legend has it that a lover’s quarrel is responsible for Nashville’s favorite sandwich, made famous by Thornton Prince, who founded Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack in 1945. According to Prince, a jealous girlfriend once fried up chicken dusted with a punishing amount of peppers, and he loved the concoction so much that he opened a restaurant. Typically served on white bread (or occasionally a brioche bun) with pickles and a mayonnaise-based sauce, Nashville Hot Chicken can now be found nationwide. (Don’t tell Prince’s, but we like Hattie B’s, too.)

Kālua Pork – Honolulu, Hawaii

Earthy, smoky, and bursting with sweet and tangy flavors, Kālua pork captures the spirit of Hawaii. Traditionally prepared by slow-roasting a whole banana-leaf-wrapped pig in an imu — an underground oven lined with hot stones — the food is a staple of luaus. Kālua pork is delicious plain on a plate, but in sandwich form, the succulent meat is piled on a soft roll, dressed with crunchy cabbage coleslaw, and drizzled with barbecue sauce. Macaroni salad is the superior side accompaniment, and although you can find the sandwiches all over Honolulu, one of the most beloved places to try it is Helena’s.

Cheesesteak – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

“You want it ‘wit’ or ‘witout?’” When ordering a cheesesteak sandwich in Philadelphia, the steak is implied. You begin the order by stating cheese preference — prov (provolone), American, or Whiz (yep, that Whiz) — then you indicate if you prefer the sandwich with fried onions or without. Green peppers and mushrooms aren’t traditional, but are optional add-ons.

Wit or witout, the classic Philly cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced ribeye on a soft roll (preferably Amoroso’s) with melted cheese (or “Cheez”), ordered quickly and served briskly with a little attitude. Pat’s (the establishment credited as the inventor of the dish) and Geno’s have a legendary rivalry over who serves the best cheesesteak in town, but we also like John’s. 

Italian Beef – Chicago, Illinois

A hundred years before FX’s The Bear swept the Emmy Awards, Chicagoans were happily tucking into Italian beef sandwiches (“beefs”) at joints all over the city. Tough (and thus cheap) cuts of meat are roasted slowly in a well-spiced jus, sliced paper-thin, piled on Italian bread, and garnished with peppers (hot or sweet) and spicy giardiniera, a mix of pickled green olives, peppers, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and cauliflower. Order it dry (jus shaken off), wet (with a spoon of jus), or dipped (where the whole sandwich is quickly submerged in gravy). Al’s #1 Italian Beef on Taylor Street claims to be the original, but every Chicagoan claims that their neighborhood spot is the best. 

French Dip – Los Angeles, California

“French” refers to the bread, not the birthplace, of this made-in-L.A. sandwich, which (similar to Chicago’s Italian beef) piles thinly sliced roast beef on bread (in this case, French bread) and tops it off with savory beef jus. Two downtown restaurants still duke it out over the invention: Philippe’s claims an accidental sandwich drop led to the creation in 1918, while Cole’s swears they deliberately softened a sandwich for a customer’s tender gums in 1908. Either way, horseradish sauce remains undisputed as the accompanying condiment of choice.

Sonoran Hot Dog – Phoenix, Arizona

Argue all day that a hot dog isn’t a sandwich: Arizona remains unbothered. A staple from the Mexican state of Sonora, this tasty dog has now spread throughout the region, with hundreds of dogueros offering the Sonoran at carts and restaurants throughout Phoenix. The sky’s the limit with this version of the hot dog, which starts with a bacon-wrapped dog and then piles on everything your heart could desire. The basics are beans, tomatoes, onions, and mayonnaise, but aficionados often add cheese, jalapeños, mushrooms, and guacamole. Cash-only Nogales is the gold standard. 

In life, “being rich” can mean different things. You can be rich in the traditional, financial sense, but you can also have a wealth of time, knowledge, or experience. The following states are perfect examples — rich in money, yes, but also in history, culture, and natural beauty that make them endlessly appealing places to visit. Here are the 10 wealthiest states in America, ranked by median household income according to the U.S. Census Bureau, along with all the other qualities that make them abundant in riches.

10. Connecticut

Median household income: $91,665

Connecticut ranks as the 10th-wealthiest state in the country, but the Constitution State holds more appeal than just plain economics. Connecticut’s quintessential New England charm is evident throughout the state, from the centuries-old homes and cobblestone streets of towns like Essex and Old Saybrook, to the rolling fields and bucolic vistas in Litchfield Hills. 

For a dose of literary history, visit the historic Mark Twain House and the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center in Hartford. Or check out the Mystic Seaport Museum to learn about Connecticut’s port trading and shipbuilding past, which helped fuel the state’s economic growth, along with the state later becoming a hub for industries such as finance and insurance. In fact, Hartford, the state capital, is nicknamed the “Insurance Capital of the World.”

9. Colorado

Median household income: $92,911

The Centennial State is a great place to visit and an even better place to live — but it will cost you a pretty penny to do so. The state’s wealth boom and early population growth kicked off with the gold and silver mining industries (which you can explore in places like Silverton), and today it boasts a diversified economy and a highly educated population. 

Colorado’s wealthiest residents are concentrated in areas like Pitkin County, home to elite ski resorts such as Aspen and Snowmass. Much of the state’s allure lies in the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains, which provide ample opportunities to ski, bike, camp, hike, or simply soak up the scenic beauty. Resort towns like Glenwood Springs provide respite from outdoor adventures, with hot springs to soak in after a long day outside.

8. Utah

Median household income: $93,421

Thanks to a strong, diversified economy (including a burgeoning tech industry), Utah residents aren’t just rich — they’re also happy. Of course, financial stability helps in that regard, but perhaps some of those smiles have to do with the Beehive State offering such a wide variety of outdoor activities set amid some of the most beautiful backdrops in the U.S. 

Adventurous types should check out Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks — if you plan it right, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef can all be squeezed into one epic road trip. Alternatively, plan a ski trip to top-notch resorts like Alta, Park City, or Snowbird for a taste of Utah’s famous champagne powder.

7. Washington

Median household income: $94,605

Home to some of the world’s biggest companies, such as Amazon, Boeing, and Microsoft, the state of Washington has one of the nation’s strongest economies, but some would say it’s even richer in biodiversity. Home to serene marine coastlines, impossibly lush temperate rainforests, dry upland prairies, and one of the tallest mountains in the contiguous U.S., Washington’s national parks showcase a breathtaking variety of natural landscapes. 

For urban types, the city of Seattle has everything you’re looking for — it’s culturally diverse, laid-back, and rich in cuisine, arts, and culture, from the lively market at Pikes Place Market to the glass-blown sculptures at Chihuly Garden and Glass. On the east side of the state, Walla Walla is home to over 120 vineyards, known for their excellent syrahs, merlots, and rieslings.

6. Hawaii

Median household income: $95,322

If you’re wondering how much it costs to live in paradise, it probably won’t come as much of a surprise that Hawaii has a notably high cost of living. However, the Aloha State also has the sixth-highest median household income in the nation, along with some of America’s happiest residents. 

Hawaii has a laid-back attitude and endless natural beauty everywhere you look. From stargazing on the Big Island’s Mauna Kea, to driving the scenic (and somewhat anxiety-inducing) Road to Hana, to exploring Waimea Canyon (aka the Grand Canyon of the Pacific), Hawaii is wealthy with opportunities for adventure.

5. California

Median household income: $95,521

If California were its own economy, it would be the fourth-largest in the world — which tells you all you need to know about the amount of wealth concentrated in the Golden State, home to both the powerhouse tech hub of Silicon Valley in the north and Tinseltown down south.

But California isn’t too shabby for visitors, either. Nature lovers can take their pick between giant redwood forests, the deserts of Joshua Tree, or the foggy cliffs at Big Sur. The cities are just as unique, depending on your vibe. Whether you prefer the Hollywood glitz and glamour in Los Angeles, the cultural attractions in San Francisco, or the beaches of Santa Barbara, California has you covered.

4. New Hampshire

Median household income: $96,838

Though states like California may steal the spotlight in terms of wealth, New Hampshire is underrated, both as a place to live and as a travel destination. Mountain lovers flock to the indomitable Mount Washington, which can be accessed on foot, by car, or via historic cog train. 

The Lakes Region is also worthy of a visit, with the popular Lake Winnipesaukee or the serene Squam Lake being ideal spots for summer vacations. And a small stretch of eastern New Hampshire provides access to the Atlantic coastline, while seacoast towns like Portsmouth offer visitors a look into the state’s seaport past that helped fuel its wealth during the colonial period and early years of the U.S.

3. Maryland

Median household income: $98,678

In terms of geography, Maryland might be small, but residents take home big paychecks. Maryland benefits from a highly educated and skilled workforce, along with proximity to federal jobs in Washington, D.C., and a strong presence in industries such as biotech and health care.

For residents and visitors alike, the state’s compact size makes it easy to enjoy all that it has to offer, from the beaches of Chesapeake Bay to the beauty of the Appalachian foothills. Baltimore is known for great food (steamed blue crabs are a must-try), along with an interesting arts and live music scene. Nautical buffs shouldn’t skip Annapolis, home of the U.S. Naval Academy and the infamous Ego Alley, known for its expensive yachts.

2. New Jersey

Median household income: $99,781

New Jersey not only has close proximity to high-paying jobs in New York City and Philadelphia, but is also a major hub for the pharmaceutical, information technology, and transportation industries. And while America’s second-wealthiest state may have a reputation for the fist-bumping of Jersey Shore, locals know that the Garden State is home to a variety of lovely beach towns, like the picturesque Avalon (a favorite destination of Oprah Winfrey) and the historic Cape May, the nation’s first seaside resort destination. For a dose of the state’s abundant natural beauty, check out Delaware Water Gap or the Pine Barrens.

1. Massachusetts

Median household income: $99,858

Massachusetts has had a lot of firsts, from the country’s first public park to its first subway system. And with a median household income that just about reaches six figures, it comes in first on the list of richest states in the U.S. 

Affluent Boston is the state’s epicenter of wealth, and it’s also a great place to dive into the state’s rich history. Spend a day on the Freedom Trail to learn about Boston’s role in the Revolutionary War or drive 25 miles to Concord to see where it all began. Farther west, the Berkshires offer a more low-key lifestyle that doesn’t skimp on culture: Check out Tanglewood for concerts in the summer or visit MASS MoCa, a contemporary art museum in a charming small-town setting.