Massachusetts: What Is Our Best Winter Destination?
When planning a winter adventure, sometimes the best place to go is right in your home state. Sure, you can travel to the mountains or escape the cold to warm beaches. However, Reader’s Digest recently highlighted the best winter destination all across the country, and in Massachusetts, it’s the western part of the state.
The winter seasons in the United States is perhaps the time that offers the largest range of getaway vacation types. Of course you have those that crave that 80 degree sunshine where you get a taste of a scene opposite of what you are experiencing at home. In Massachusetts, heading down south to Florida or to a tropical resort for winter break is a very common trip. In addition to that, ski trips are equally as popular. Health and wellness researchers Innerbody recently said that the most common travel destination for residents of the Bay State is heading up north to New Hampshire. However, Innerbody also said, “People in 45 of 50 states (plus the District of Columbia) are most interested in traveling within their own state this winter.”
This point compliments Reader’s Digest feature, which details that this western Massachusetts mountain range is the best winter destination in the state.
The Berkshires
This rural mountain range region has everything you need. In fact, you have the choice to participate in essentially every traditional winter activity, or you can do nothing at all. The outdoor ski and hiking adventures in the Berkshires are certainly among the most popular to partake in. However, the art scene all year round is one to pay close attention to.
In mid-February, the 10×10 UpStreet Arts and Music Festival comes to Pittsfield; before then, visitors can check out a performance at The Colonial Theatre and view masterpieces at the Clark Art Institute or the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art.
If you are interested in heading out to the Berkshires, TripAdvisor recently listed some great options that include quiet bed and breakfast spots, and more lively large hotels.
Massachusetts: 4 Great Places To Get A Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
Throughout New England, I’ve recently noticed the tag of “Nashville” has been applied to many chicken sandwiches. No matter if I am in a local pub or tavern, barbeque establishment, or really a restaurant of any kind, this menu item is everywhere. Here, I’ve highlighted four great places to get a tasty Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich in Massachusetts today.
First, what exactly does this term refer to? “Nashville chicken’s signature heat comes from a spice blend that usually includes cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other secret ingredients,” Main Bird Hot Chicken explains.
So, in short, we are talking about a piece of buttermilk fried chicken sandwiched between a bun (typically, brioche). However, it needs to have the aforementioned spice rub. Then, add in some slaw or pickles to take the sandwich to the next level.
The History Of Nashville Hot Chicken
Although it appears to be more on-trend and ubiquitous now in Massachusetts, Mashed explained this style has a history going back over 75 years. In their 2021 story that specifically profiled the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, they say, “This fiery brand of fowl, which originated at a Tennessee institution with a royal name, marries a southern classic with a hit of tongue-tingling heat.”
Mashed explains that a historical Nashville establishment named Prince’s Hot Chicken can be pointed to for serving up one of the first memorable of these spicy fried chicken sandwiches.
The Massachusetts establishments that have mastered the craft of this sandwich have a few things in common. First, they don’t overdo it with the toppings. That can take away from the mixed spice flavor. Next, they pair the sandwich with a side, but not one that takes the attention of the main act. Lastly, they include an option to make it unique. That can be a spicy mayo, ketchup aioli, or fried pickles.
Here are four great places in Massachusetts you need to know about, to get a great Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich.
Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.
