A survey found that less than half of Americans are planning on traveling for summer vacation this year.
The Bankrate 2025 Summer Travel Survey said that 46% are planning traveling, 10% of Americans are choosing to “staycation” close to where they live, with 65% percent of people not planning to travel citing affordability as their reason for not traveling.
However, a “staycation” isn’t the worst thing in the world, if you live in Massachusetts, especially.
Islands, a travel publication that started in 1981, says they’ve found the perfect Commonwealth town to make some great summer memories.
“There’s nothing like a fun, coastal Massachusetts getaway to pull you out of your day-to-day routine,” Islands said.
The publication said this community has the calming atmosphere of a seaside town but without all the overwhelming crowds that occupy other maritime towns to ruin your trip.
Here is what Islands had to say about this coastal town.
Bird Island Lighhouse off Butler Point Marion, Massachusetts. Submitted by reader “bubby”.
Marion, MA — A ‘picturesque hub’
Islands named Marion, Massachusetts, as the best place to go if you’re looking for a charming small town to relax in and see some wonderful sights.
What Islands said about it: “Some must-see places to add to your itinerary include the Bird Island Lighthouse, Marion’s historic lighthouse built in 1819 and one of its most iconic landmarks. You can also visit Marion Antiques, Washburn Park, and the Marion Art Center. The iconic lighthouse-sandy beach combo isn’t exclusive to Marion, though, so travelers who love the atmosphere and aesthetic can always go on a charming, beachy lighthouse road trip around Cape Cod as well.”
What restaurants to visit in Marion
For places to eat, the publication recommended Brew Fish Bar & Eatery at 210 Spring St. for some tasty seafood and wonderful craft beers. They also recommended Cast Seaside Bites at 7 Cottage St. for cocktails and small plates.
“If you’re looking for something quicker and cheaper, Kate’s Simple Eats is the place to be for some healthier sandwiches and gluten-free wraps, too,” Islands said.
You can find Kate’s Simple Eats at 148 Front St.
Rin Velasco is a trending reporter. She can be reached at rvelasco@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Marion is a MA beach town hyped by Islands that ‘isn’t too crowded’