Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

This national marine sanctuary consists of 7 different visitor centers, museums, and aquariums in Massachusetts.

Located just between Cape Ann and Cape Cod in the Massachusetts Bay, this is the only national animal sanctuary in New England. This 842-square mile sanctuary follows right along the Massachusetts coastline and is one of only 13 marine sanctuaries in the country. Established in 1992, the sanctuary's organization offers visitor centers, aquariums, and museums for learning and discovery. One of the most common attractions within this sanctuary is whale watching. The whale watching site is one of the top ten whale-watching sites in the world, and about one million people come to watch the marvelous whales here every year. As a sanctuary, it supports ecosystems and lends support to endangered marine animals. You will see whale species such as the Atlantic right whale, humpback whale, sperm whale, orca, and finback whale.

Whales aren’t the only wildlife creature that can be seen here, though! More than 130 species call the sanctuary home throughout the year, and this is also a great spot to go fishing. However, due to a decrease in fish populations, there are rules and regulations in place that protect some specific fish species. Many people also come to the sanctuary to see the various birds like gannets and puffins, making it a great spot for bird watchers to enjoy. Some of the other things to do at the sanctuary include boating, diving, and marine animal research. The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is an extraordinary place where one can truly appreciate the natural world in all its glory.