fun day trips in massachusetts

New England Wanderlust

Cape Cod , Connecticut , Maine , Martha's Vineyard , Massachusetts , Nantucket , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont  ·  January 14, 2023

35 Fun Day Trips In New England To Take In 2024

Between gorgeous, historic cities to some of the most stunning coastline the U.S. has to offer, New England offers an incredible variety of day trip destinations for pretty much anyone. Whether you’re looking to tackle some epic hikes in the mountains, spend the day by the beach, get lost on cobblestone streets or spend your day eating all the amazing food, I’ve got you covered with my suggestions on the absolute best day trips in New England!

Hi there, and welcome! I’ve been exploring the New England region for over 15 years now, and I also live locally in the northeast. My favorite thing in the world is to explore this corner of the U.S., and I’ve covered a lot of ground over the years. I truly believe that all of the places I’ve included on this list are worth your time, and are easy to navigate with just one day.

I’ve also grouped each destination by season, but it’s good to know that pretty much all of these suggestions are wonderful year-round . In fact, it was really hard to group some of them into a specific season because many of them offers incredible things to do year-round. So, while I’ve made some seasonal suggestions, keep in mind that most places are truly perfect throughout the entire year.

Are you ready? Let’s get started!

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Best Day Trips In New England In The Summer

1. provincetown, ma.

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Plymouth, other towns on Cape Cod, Massachusetts North & South Shore.

One of the most unique towns in the entire U.S. is Provincetown, and because it’s small and easily walkable, it makes for a perfect day trip in New England.

Provincetown is an especially easy day trip for those coming from Boston and Plymouth, as there are ferries that will take you right to MacMillan Pier in downtown Provincetown. Both ferry options only take 90 minutes, making them very convenient options.

🛳 Click here to check out the ferry from Boston to Provincetown!

🛳 Click here to checkout the ferry from Plymouth to Provincetown!

During the summer season, a free shuttle takes visitors from MacMillan Pier to Race Point and Herring Cove beaches, which are two of the most beautiful beaches on Cape Cod. And once you’re in Ptown (as the locals call it!), you can easily walk everywhere.

Top things to check out in Provincetown:

• The Cape Cod National Seashore
• Commercial Street
• Lobster Pot restaurant
• Pilgrim Monument
• The real pilgrim landing site
• Beautiful art galleries

→ Click here to read my full guide on even more awesome things to do in Provincetown!

2. Nantucket, MA

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod

One of the best day trips from Cape Cod is Nantucket Island, and I also think it’s one of the best places to see in all of New England . Filled with picturesque coastal scenery around every turn, I always describe Nantucket as both modern and stuck in time. Between the historic homes and cobblestone streets, breathtaking beaches and the most charming downtown boutiques, it’s the perfect way to spend a day when in the area.

→ Click here to read my guide on everything you need to know about a Nantucket day trip!

3. Martha’s Vineyard

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod, Boston , New Bedford

Martha’s Vineyard is the other Cape Cod island that’s popular for summer vacations and day trips, and for good reason! It’s a bit bigger than Nantucket, but the ferry ride over from Cape Cod is shorter. And with 6 gorgeous towns to explore, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun on a day trip.

While there is no direct ferry from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard, there is a day tour that you can book that will take care of all the transportation for you! This is a great way to plan a summer escape from the city without having to drive yourself.

🚐 Click here to book your Boston to Martha’s Vineyard tour!

Here are some other Martha’s Vineyard posts you may find helpful :

• The Ultimate Guide To A Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip!
• Is Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket Better For A Day Trip?
• How To See Martha’s Vineyard Without A Car
• Best Things To Do On Martha’s Vineyard

4. Block Island, RI

Best as a day trip from: Newport, Boston, Providence and surrounding Rhode Island areas

As much as I love Cape Cod and the Islands, I think Block Island is such a special place and deserves more hype. This little island sits off the coast of Point Judith, RI, and is a short 30-60 minute ferry from there, making this a very easy day trip from the Ocean State!

And one of the amazing things about this little island is that all the beaches are completely free for all visitors, which is a rare thing in New England. In addition to that, there are some really wonderful restaurants, a cute downtown and some gorgeous sites to see.

→ Click here to read my full guide on taking a Block Island day trip!

5. Newport, RI

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Providence and surrounding areas

Nicknamed The City By The Sea, Newport feels more like a charming coastal town than a vibrant city. Packed with history, stunning Gilded Age mansions, character, beautiful coastline views, beaches, and an exciting culinary scene, there are so many fun things to do there that make for a perfect day trip in New England.

The biggest tip I have for you about Newport in the summer is that it can get busy, which means parking can sometimes be challenging. I highly recommend that you park and leave your car for the entire day, rather than trying to drive everywhere. Newport is pretty walkable, but a great option is taking a trolley tour so you can see the major sites in a short amount of time.

This particular tour also includes admission to The Breakers Mansion, which is one of the top things to see in Newport: → Click here to check out the trolley & Breakers Mansion tour in Newport

Newport also offers amazing tours out on the water! A great way to end your day trip is with a sunset cruise, and this is an awesome one to consider: → Click here to check out this sunset cruise in Newport!

→ Click here to read my full guide on a Newport day trip!

6. Westerly, RI

Best as a day trip from: Newport, Boston, Providence and surrounding areas

Westerly is one of the best beach towns in Rhode Island for a summer vacation or day trip! With miles of gorgeous shoreline to explore across several stunning beaches, this is the perfect place to spend a hot summer day.

And not only are the beaches absolutely beautiful, there’s also a charming downtown with awesome restaurants and shops to explore. Westerly is also home to the charming village of Watch Hill, which is where you’ll find a lighthouse, the iconic Ocean House resort, Napatree Point (pictured above!) and lots of beautiful scenery.

Here are some other great things to check out in Westerly:

• Misquamicut State Beach – the best public beach in town!
• Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery
• Grey Sail Brewing
• Sailing tour with Sail Trim Again

Tips for visiting Watch Hill in Westerly : Parking here in tough during high season (summer) and on weekends. The free parking spots are limited to 2 hours, so if you plan to dine anywhere, or spend time at the beaches, you’ll want to arrange for paid parking in one of the lots. Parking around the rest of Westerly isn’t as big of an issue.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Westerly, RI & Watch Hill!

7. Kennebunkport, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Massachusetts North Shore, Boston

Honestly, Kennebunkport is an amazing coastal destination year-round because they really know how to celebrate what’s special about each season. In fact, their Christmas events have put this cute little community on the map as one of the best Christmas towns in the U.S.! But the summer is definitely one of the most popular season to experience Kennebunkport.

This town really has it all – lovely stores and restaurants, a quaint downtown, New England charm, dramatic coastline and gorgeous beaches. Here are a few wonderful things to do on a Kennebunkport day trip:

• Walk Parson’s Way for amazing coastal views (and see the famous Bush compound!)
• Walk through the shops at Dock Square.
• Visit the beaches (Gooch’s, Mother’s and Goose Rocks).
• Get a lobster roll from The Clam Shack.
• Take a lobster boat tour with Rugosa.

8. Ogunquit, ME

Another charming town that’s perfect for enjoying a summer day in Maine is Ogunquit. This destination is home to one of the best beaches in Maine – Ogunquit Beach, which has 3 miles of beautiful, soft, sandy shoreline to enjoy.

In addition to the beach, you’ll find an incredibly charming town with great shops and restaurants, and one of my absolute favorite things to do in all of Maine – Marginal Way, which is a gorgeous pedestrian path along the coastline.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Ogunquit!

9. Boothbay Harbor, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland and surrounding areas.

Located between Portland and Acadia National Park, you’ll find the adorable town of Boothbay Harbor. While this destination is great during spring, summer and fall, summer is one of the best times to visit because all the seasonal restaurants and boat tours will be open, allowing you to get the full experience during your trip.

One of the reasons I love Boothbay Harbor so much is because of all the amazing options available for boat tours. Boats here go a bit further north than tours that depart from Portland, so you’ll get to see some more remote parts of the coastline, lighthouses and incredible wildlife. They even offer tours to see a puffin colony!

One of the coolest tours to take during a day trip is the Seals, Lighthouses & Lobster Trap tour , which offers so many great things to see in just 1.5 hours. During the cruise, you’re also likely to spot some seals in the water, and watch a real lobster trap haul.

→ Click here to check rates & availability for the Seals, Lighthouses & Lobster Trap Tour

Psst! I have a detailed guide on the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor , if you need more ideas for your day trip 😉

10. Lubec, ME

Best as a day trip from: Bar Harbor, Bangor

Okay, so Lubec is a bit more challenging as a day trip because it’s so remote, and pretty close to the Canadian border, but I wanted to include it on this list for anyone looking for an amazing day trip option that’s a bit of a hidden gem.

Lubec offers absolutely stunning opportunities for hiking and coastline views, and is also home to the famous red and white striped lighthouse, West Quoddy Light. I also love that it’s a quaint and quiet little fishing village that not many people visit. The actual village itself doesn’t have a ton to do, but I think the landscapes and hiking here are more than worth the effort to visit.

A few things that are a must for a day trip:

• Explore West Quoddy State Park to see the lighthouse and do some of the walking trails.
• Hike the Boot Head Preserve trail.
• Taste the local beer at Lubec Brewing Company.
• Take a boat tour to Old Sow Whirlpool.

→ Click here to read my full guide on even more things to do in Lubec!

11. Mystic, CT

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Newport, Providence

One of the most charming towns along the Connecticut coast is Mystic, made famous, of course, by the movie Mystic Pizza . Mystic makes for a wonderful day trip in the area because it’s small and walkable, offers boat tours along the river and is close to the Connecticut Wine Trail, which is incredibly fun and scenic!

One of the top things to do in Mystic is the Mystic Seaport Museum , which is a highly interactive museum that’s built to replicate a historic New England ship yard and town. You can climb aboard historic tall ships and admire the views of the river while learning about its incredible history. This is actually a really fun way to spend a few hours in Mystic (and I’m not usually a museum person!).

→ Click here to get your ticket to the Mystic Seaport Museum

Psst! I have an entire guide on the best things to do in Mystic, CT if you’re looking for more ideas 😉

12. Manchester, VT

Best as a day trip from: The Berkshires, Northwestern Massachusetts, surrounding areas in Vermont

While Vermont is known as a top fall and winter destination in New England, I especially love to visit Manchester in the summer. Located in southern Vermont, this cute little town is home to some really fun ways to cool down on hot summer days, including swimming in a rock quarry and floating down a river in an inner tube.

The Dorset Marble Quarry is just a few minutes from downtown Manchester, and is a really cool and unique place to go for a swim. And with Vermont River Runners , you can rent an inner tube and float down the Battenkill River. They’ll even pick you up at the end do you don’t have to worry about getting back to your car!

Once you’re done splashing in the water, you can also explore the cute little downtown, which has some lovely shops and eateries, and maybe even visit Hildene , which is a former Lincoln family home, and boasts stunning garden displays and mountain views.

13. Shelburne Falls, MA

This small little town nestled in The Berkshires has been made famous by its No. 1 attraction – the Bridge of Flowers. And honestly? It’s worth the type.

Once an old trolley bridge that became obsolete is now a beautiful and cheerful display of colorful flowers from spring to fall. But in the summer, you’ll find the most blooms to enjoy during your visit.

Shelbune Falls also has a Trolley Museum, brewery and one of the oldest bowling alleys in the country, so you’ll definitely be able to fill your day trip with cool things to do.

14. Gloucester, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Portland, Massachusetts North Shore, Plymouth

Gloucester is another destination that’s really great to visit in spring, summer and fall, but since it’s home to one of the best beaches along the North Shore, it makes for an especially wonderful day trip in New England in the summer months.

Wingaersheek Beach is a beautiful spot for swimming, and makes for an awesome escape from city life in Boston and Portland. You can easily spend your entire day just at the beach, as it has a snack shack, and provides a beautiful sunset.

Gloucester is also one of the best locations in the Northeast for whale watching! Tours from Gloucester cruise to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is regarded as the best spot in New England for spotting wildlife.

→ Click here to book your whale watch in Gloucester!

Gloucester is also home to a beautiful lighthouse, wonderful downtown with shops and amazing restaurants, and a waterfront park to explore.

Best New England Day Trips In The Fall

15. bar harbor/acadia national park.

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Bangor

While Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor can be challenging to do as a day trip because of their location, it’s absolutely worth the effort! Acadia National Park, especially, is one of the best things to see in all of New England, so even a day spent here is better than not seeing it at all. And during the fall season, you’ll experience better temperatures for hiking, as well as stunning fall foliage.

But honestly, spring and summer are equally as great, so it’s really personal preference on when you plan your day trip!

Psst! I have a full Acadia National Park itinerary , which includes a bonus day trip itinerary option, and a guide on the best time to visit Acadia National Park , which you may find helpful 😉

16. Springfield, MA For The Big E Fair

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Providence, Newport, Mystic

One of the best days trips to take to celebrate the end of summer and beginning of fall is Springfield, so you can attend The Big E, which is the biggest fair in New England!

All 6 of the New England states take part in this fair, and between the awesome fair and regional foods, rides, shopping, exhibitions, live performances and so much more, it really is the quintessential fair experience. Many people come from all over the region to attend, so you know it must be good.

17. Salem, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Massachusetts North & South Shore, Providence, Plymouth

Salem is regarded as one of the top Halloween destinations in the entire world, so it rarely needs an introduction. But I can honestly say that it really is such a fun place to experience during the month of October. And because it’s smaller than most people realize, it’s actually very easy to explore in a day.

Since Salem is about all things spooky, I highly suggest getting into the spirit and doing a spooky tour of some sort. There are so many tours offered in Salem that talk about everything from the fascinating history, to Hocus Pocus filing locations to all the very creepy ghost sightings.

A great tour that’s perfect for most people is this History & Hauntings Tour, which talks about the history with a few spooky facts thrown in for good measure : → Click here to book the History & Hauntings Tour in Salem!

Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip , and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information 😉

18. Plymouth, MA

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod, Boston, Massachusetts South & North Shore, Providence, Newport

Plymouth is one of the oldest towns in the entire U.S., so of course, it’s absolutely worth a day trip if in the area! And while it’s known for its history, it’s also home to some beautiful parks and a cute downtown.

The reason I love Plymouth for a day trip in the fall is because there’s something about this area that reminds me so much of “back to school,” and it also does a fantastic job celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday, of course! It’s also one of the last parts of New England to hit peak fall foliage, so if you’re looking for a foliage destination in early November, Plymouth is perfect for that timeframe!

However, Plymouth is, of course, wonderful year-round, too 😊

The top attraction in Plymouth is the Plimoth Patuxet Museum, which immerses visitors into the life of the early settlers. You can even climb aboard the Mayflower II, which is a working replica of the original Mayflower! → Click here to get your tickets to the Plimoth Patuxet Museums!

In addition to the museums, some other great things to check out in Plymouth are:

• Mirbeau Spa
• The shops and eateries downtown
• Brewster Gardens
• Pilgrim Memorial State Park
• Plymouth Bay Winery
• Plymouth Long Beach

Psst! I have an entire post on visiting Plymouth, MA , if you need more ideas for your day trip!

19. Marblehead, MA

Along the Massachusetts North Shore is the beautiful town of Marblehead, which is really great to visit in both summer and fall. But fall is an especially beautiful time to visit because of the stunning foliage displays, of course.

While walking around to enjoy the foliage, you’ll also want to be sure to visit the charming shops in the historic district, enjoy the coastal views from Castle Rock Park, take a walk on Devereux Beach and admire the gorgeous, historic New England homes.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Marblehead!

20. Newburyport, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Portland, Massachusetts North & South Shore

Newburyport is another destination that’s truly wonderful year-round, but I especially love it in the fall because of all the fall color. This is also one of my top places to visit for shopping, and even Boston Magazine named Tannery Marketplace in Newburyport one of the best places for shopping on the North Shore.

Newburyport is also pretty small, and the downtown area is very walkable, making this a perfect day trip option. It’s also home to Plum Island, which has beautiful beaches, as well as the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which has gorgeous nature trails to explore.

Here are a few awesome things to do on a Newburyport day trip:

• Stroll along the waterfront park.
• Explore all the amazing shops in Market Square and Tannery Marketplace.
• Visit Maudslay State Park.
• Drive to Plum Island to see the beaches, and hit the scenic trails in the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.

→ Click here to read my full guide on visiting Newburyport!

21. The Berkshires

Best as a day trip from: Northwestern Massachusetts, surrounding Vermont areas

During the fall season, The Berkshires puts on a beautiful foliage display, and this is one of the most cozy places to be this time of the year. Between all the amazing hiking opportunities, quaint towns and gorgeous mountain landscapes, it also makes for a fun and adventurous day trip in Massachusetts.

The Berkshires is actually made up of 31 towns and 2 cities, so it’s a pretty big area to tackle in a day trip, but that just means you have a lot of exciting activities to choose from. Here are a few awesome things to consider for a fall day trip to The Berkshires:

• Go seasonal beer and hard cider tasting (there are tons of options!).
• Admire the foliage during a ziplining tour with Berkshire East Mountain Resort.
• Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Greylock for amazing fall foliage views.
• Pick apples, hike and sample the local wine at Hilltop Orchards.

22. Woodstock, VT

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding Vermont areas , White Mountains

One of the top fall foliage destinations in the entire U.S. is Vermont, and Woodstock is one of the most charming and picturesque towns to experience. In Woodstock, not only will you get the enjoy the foliage that Vermont is famous, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie set when you arrive to the cute little town.

Woodstock’s village is about as perfect as can be with beautiful boutiques and quaint restaurants. In the center of town, there’s even a covered bridge!

But just outside of the village, you’ll find Billings Farm & Museum, which is regarded as one of the best interactive agricultural museums in the country. You can also visit Sugarbush Farms to sample their own maple syrups and cheeses, and enjoy stunning mountain views dripping in fall color.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Woodstock!

23. Burlington, VT

Another wonderful day trip in Vermont in the fall season is Burlington. As the largest city in the state, it has a lot to offer including the beautiful Lake Champlain, amazing restaurants, art galleries, breweries and so much more.

In fact, one of the most fun things to do in Burlington on a day trip is dive into the local brewing scene with a tour!

Vermont produces some of the top beers in the country, and this tour is led by a local expert that gives you all the insider tips, and allows you to sample up to 12 different beers. This time of the year, there are likely to be seasonal beers available, too. → Click here to book your brewery tour in Burlington!

You’ll also want to be sure to walk the waterfront path along Lake Champlain for beautiful fall foliage views, and hit up Church Street Marketplace to enjoy the local shops.

24. Littleton, NH

Best as a day trip from: Vermont, surrounding New Hampshire areas

One of my personal favorite towns in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire is Littleton. Not only has it been named of the best Main Streets in the entire country, it’s home to a charming little community with awesome shops, restaurants, a brewery, and the world’s largest candy counter (it’s true!).

And since it’s only about 20 minutes from some of the top fall foliage sites in Franconia Notch State Park (like Flume Gorge and Echo Lake), this is the perfect day trip to take while exploring the area.

→ Click here to read my full guide on all the best things to do in Littleton .

25. Montpelier, VT

Montpelier is Vermont’s capital, and I think it’s a very underrated destination in the area. The cool thing about Montpelier is that it’s a city that feels like both a city and a quaint town at the same time, so exploring for the day is very easy to do. And during the fall season, there are a lot of fun seasonal activities you can enjoy.

Here are a few things you should look into for a Montpelier day trip in the fall:

• The annual Enchanted Forest Celebration in October.
• Visit Peck Farm Orchard to pick apples, get some cider donuts and sample their hard cider.
• Stroll through town to visit the boutiques and eateries.
• Head to Hubbard Park to enjoy the fall foliage.
• Drive to nearby Groton State Forest to tackle some fall foliage hikes.

26. Litchfield Hill, CT

Best as a day trip from: Mystic, The Berkshires, New Haven, Hartford

Fun fact: Amy Sherman Palladino based Stars Hollow on a few towns in the Litchfield Hills area of Connecticut, so this is one of the best New England day trips for Gilmore Girls fans. It’s said that Washington Depot was her main inspiration, but many have claimed that New Milford’s town green feels most like a Stars Hollow set.

But even if you know nothing about Gilmore Girls , this is an incredibly stunning area to visit for a day trip, especially in the fall. You’ll find covered bridges, scenic drives, cozy restaurants, quaint towns and state parks that will be ablaze with foliage color this time of the year. And since all the small towns are pretty close to one another, you can easily see most of them in one day trip.

The towns in Litchfield county also have tons of fun fall festivals and events that take place through September and October, and those are worth checking out.

Here are some awesome ideas for the perfect fall day trip to the Litchfield Hills:

• Explore the charming town of Kent, including Bull’s Covered Bridge and Kent Falls State Park.
• Drive the scenic Route 7 to New Milford to enjoy the town green, and take in stunning foliage views from Lovers Leap State Park.
• Enjoy the picturesque town of Washington Depot, and sample the local wines at Hopkins Vineyard.
• Drive to Litchfield and enjoy getting lost in the Bunnell Farm corn maze, and explore the cute town.

Best New England Day Trips In The Winter

27. stowe, vt.

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding Vermont areas, White Mountains

Stowe is hard to beat as a charming, small town winter day trip in Vermont. It’s also one of the best places in Vermont in the fall season, but I decided to add it to the winter section because it has a little something extra in the winter that just feels magical.

In January, you can visit during their winter carnival to see professional ice sculptors in action. And you can also plan a visit to the Spruce Peak Lodge resort to skate at their scenic ice rink, and enjoy lunch at one of their restaurants.

And, of course, you can’t talk about Stowe without mentioning the ski resort, which is continually voted as one of the best in the region. If you love to hit the slopes in the winter, this is one of the best day trips you can take in New England!

→ Click here to read my full guide on all the best things to do in Stowe!

28. Camden, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Bar Harbor, surrounding areas in Maine

Camden is honestly awesome year-round, especially in the summer for windjammer cruises around the harbor, and in the fall season for colorful foliage. But in winter, it’s home to one of the most exciting winter parks in Maine – the Camden Snow Bowl.

The Camden Snow Bowl offers ski trails, a snow tubing park, and even a very fun toboggan chute. In February, the famous toboggan chute is actually the location of the U.S. Toboggan Championships. But if you visit outside of the competition weekend, visitors are able to fly down the chute during their visit (which I highly recommend).

Camden is also often named one of Maine’s most beautiful towns, so during your day trip, you should also plan to visit the charming Main Street downtown, which is home to cute shops and restaurants.

29. Lincoln, NH

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding areas in the White Mountains and Vermont, Portsmouth

If you’re nearby Lincoln, NH in the winter season, you’ll want to consider a day trip to see the famous Ice Castles, which only puts on a few displays throughout the U.S. Technically located in South Woodstock (which is only a few minutes from Lincoln), the Ice Castles display is really something special to see with your own eyes.

Not only is there a giant castle carved out of ice (that changes each year!), there are also often special features like ice slides, sleigh rides, tunnels, tubing and more.

And because there are so many other winter activities in Lincoln like skiing and scenic gondola rides at Loon Mountain, ice skating at RiverWalk resort, sleigh rides at Franconia Notch stables, there are tons of ways to fill up your day trip itinerary.

→ Click here to read my guide on all the best things to do in Lincoln!

30. Jackson, NH

Jackson is another amazing winter destination for a day trip in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire. And since it’s only just an over an hour from Lincoln, you could easily combine the two for a winter wonderland day of fun.

One of the best things to do in the winter is actually drive from Lincoln (the previous suggestion!) to Jackson for a scenic winter drive. You have two options for this, both of which are beautiful: The Kancamagus Highway, and the drive through Crawford Notch State Park (along Route 302). Both will take about the same amount of time, so it’s really personal preference.

Once you arrive in Jackson, there are tons of downhill, cross-country ski and snowshoe trails to explore.

Another wonderful winter activity in Jackson is Nestlenook Farms, which has one of the most beautiful outdoor ice skating rinks, and they also offer sleigh rides along lantern-lit trails, as well as fire pits to warm up next to.

31. Portsmouth, NH

Best as a day trip from: White Mountains, Boston, Providence, Newport, Massachusetts North & South Shore , Portland and surrounding areas

Portsmouth is another destination in New England that feels like both a city and a quaint, charming town, and in the winter, it feels like the most perfect, cozy winter day trip adventure.

One of the top things to do in the city during the winter season is skate at the outdoor rink at Puddle Dock Pond, which is part of the Strawbery Banke Museum. The ice rink is backdropped by historic houses, and you can’t help but feel like you’re in a cute little New England village while you make your way around the ice.

After your skating adventure, you’ll want to walk through the beautiful historic side streets to Market Square, where you’ll find tons of beautiful stores and amazing restaurants for a cozy meal. One of the coolest places to eat in Portsmouth is the Book & Bar, which is, as you probably guessed, a bookstore, bar and cafe all in one.

Pro Tip : To stay warm while you explore, grab a hot chocolate from Elephantine Bakery before you begin your stroll around Market Square.

32. Boston, MA

Best as a day trip from: Providence, Portland, Cape Cod, Plymouth, Massachusetts North & South Shore, Newport

Boston is a wonderful city to visit year-round, but I actually think winter is one of the best seasons to explore because it’s far less crowded. Sure, the winter weather isn’t exactly idea, but if you get lucky enough to experience a fresh snowfall, it’s simply so beautiful to see the cobblestone streets covered in a dusting of snow.

Plus, because Boston has so many wonderful things to do indoors, as well as a few fun outdoor activities, it’s hard to beat for a city winter escape.

One of the best ways to get around Boston any time of the year is by trolley. This allows you to park your car for the day and have someone else take you to the best locations around the city. One option is the hop on/hop off pass, which is perfect for day-trippers. → Click here to book your Boston trolley passes!

And is it just me, or if your appetite bigger in the winter? I especially love food tours in the colder months for this reason, and Boston is an amazing destination to dive deep into the culinary world.

There are some awesome tours throughout the city to introduce you to the best foods in Boston, and you can click the link below to read my picks for the best ones . → Click here to check out my round-up of the best Boston food tours!

And for outdoor fun in the winter on your day trip, you’ll want to head to Frog Pond in Boston Common for ice skating , which is one of the best things to do in Massachusetts in the winter . This is especially fun at night when the rink is surrounded by twinkle lights, and you can see the city landscape light up as you make your way around the ice. You’ll also want to grab a cup of hot chocolate from L.A. Burdick to savor while you walk around to explore.

For indoor activities, you can visit the New England Aquarium, do some shopping at Copley Place, get tickets to a show, and make reservations for a fun dinner out before leaving (I’m especially fond of the Italian restaurants in the North End, but there are tons of places to choose from all over the city!).

33. Providence, RI

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Newport, Cape Cod, Plymouth

Providence is the capital of Rhode Island, and is a wonderful day trip to take in the winter season (and year-round, too!)! Not only will you get to enjoy everything the city has to offer in terms of great food, culture, theater, and historic sites, there are also some very fun ways to enjoy the winter season in Providence.

To enjoy the brisk winter weather, you’ll want to head to the BankNewport City Center Rink in downtown Providence. Here, you can enjoy ice skating and … ice bumper cars? Yes, you read that right! This rink is also home to this unique and fun winter activity that’s sure to make you feel like a kid again.

34. Killington, VT

Best as a day trip from: White Mountains, surrounding areas in Vermont

One of the best places in Vermont for skiing and outdoor winter fun is Killington Ski Resort, so this is the perfect day trip option for anyone looking to spend all day outdoors playing in the snow.

At Killington, you’ll find a large network of downhill ski trails, as well as a really fun snow tubing park, a roller coaster, snowmobile tours, snowshoe trails and even a spa (which is the perfect way to end your day trip after playing outside all day!).

35. Portland, ME

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Massachusetts North & South Shore, surrounding areas in Maine

Finally, let’s talk about Portland, one of the coolest destinations in Maine in the winter season. While Portland is also wonderful year-round, I especially enjoy it in the winter for the same reasons I like Boston in the winter – fewer crowds, and a bigger appetite to eat all the food 🙂

Portland is another incredible foodie destination in New England, and you’ll definitely want to consider a culinary tour during your day trip.

One of the best foodie tours in the city is this Old Port culinary walking tour, which takes you to some of the best spots in the most beautiful and historic part of the city! Click here to book your Old Port Culinary Tour in Portland!

Other posts on Portland to help you plan your trip:

• Best Things To Do In Portland In The Winter
• Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
• Best Day Trips From Portland, Maine

Best New England Day Trips In New England For Families

Pretty much every destination on this list makes for a wonderful day trip with the kids, but here are my picks for places that are especially perfect day trips in New England for families. I’ve included a few kid-friendly suggestions for each destination to plan the perfect itinerary.

→ Boston, MA : New England Aquarium, Boston Children’s Museum, Boston Museum of Science, Legoland Discovery Center, boat ride at the Public Gardens, The Lawn On D.

→ Mystic, CT: Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport Museum to climb aboard tall ships, B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill (fall season), sail boat tours, watch the Bascule Bridge in action.

→ Woodstock, VT : Billings Farm & Museum is one of the top attractions for families in Vermont, Silver Lakes State Park, ice cream at Woodstock Scoops, horse-drawn carriage rides.

→ Providence, RI: Roger Williams Park Zoo, WaterFire events, Providence Children’s Museum, ice skating (winter), Water Place Park.

→ Block Island : 1661 Farm and Gardens, The Ice Cream Place, free beaches, and kids will love the ferry ride to get there!

Best New England Day Trips For Couples

As I’m sure you can imagine, all of the destinations from this list are amazing day trips for couples, but here are my picks that are especially perfect for a romantic day together:

→ Kennebunkport : This is a romantic destination year-round, and is especially perfect at Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or for a summer day trip.

→ Nantucket : The island is one of the most picturesque places in the U.S., and the beaches are absolutely stunning and offer incredible sunsets for a romantic stroll.

→ Stowe : Perfect for a fall or winter day trip, Stowe is such a quintessential New England town that’s cozy and romantic.

→ Litchfield, CT : Spend your day admiring fall foliage, covered bridges, eating at cozy restaurants and walking around quaint villages while holding hands.

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• Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
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• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
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• My Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

That’s A Wrap On The Best New England Day Trips

And there you have it! My picks for the best day trips in New England. So, where are you planning to go first? Maybe hit the beaches in Provincetown? Wander the historic streets in Boston? Regardless of where you go, one thing’s for sure – it’s going to be a memorable day!

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Here Are 14 Unique Day Trips In Massachusetts That Are An Absolute Must-Do

Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

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There’s always a little more to explore in Massachusetts. Just when you think you’ve visited every interesting nook and cranny, another must-visit destination pops up on your radar. We wouldn’t have it any other way, so here are 14 more wonderful and unique day trip ideas for your next weekend adventure. These are some of the best day trips in Massachusetts you can take!

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Have you been on any of the day trips in Massachusetts featured here? Let us know which ones in the comments. Or, if you have discovered any fun day trips near you, be sure to share those as well. If you’re looking for more Massachusetts activity inspiration, check out these nine picturesque trails that are perfect for hiking any time of year.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Best day trips in massachusetts.

What are some of the most unique things to do in Massachusetts?

Some of the most unique things to do in Massachusetts are to find the hidden gems around the Bay State .

• Peruse the shelves of the Brattle Book Shop to find your next read
• Check out the oddities at The Warren Anatomical Museum
• Take in the views at Castle Hill at the Crane Estate

What are some of the best road trips in Massachusetts?

Some of the best road trips in Massachusetts include:

• The Massachusetts Ice Cream Trail
• A Hidden Beaches Road Trip
• A Massachusetts Castle Road Trip
• An Abandoned Places Road Trip

There are plenty of road trip ideas around the state but if you don’t want to plan your own, don’t worry. We did some hard work and put together a list of road trips around Massachusetts . Take your taste buds on a tour of the best ice cream shops along an ice cream road trip or, perhaps, check out some of the state’s most beautiful hidden beaches. The world is your oyster!

What are some of the most relaxing getaway spots in Massachusetts?

Some of the most relaxing getaway spots in Massachusetts include:

• A waterfront getaway in Gloucester
• Ocean Edge Resort
• The Harbor View Hotel

Whether you enjoy the beach or mountains, we are so lucky in the Bay State to have the options we do. A relaxing stay by the water may take you to Ocean Edge Resort while a stay at a cabin in the mountains may also sound ideal.

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25 Best Day Trips from Massachusetts

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 9, 2024

The 1799 ruins of a water-powered cotton mill still stand along the Acushnet River. The New Bedford Reservoir, known as Lake Street to the locals, offers kayaking, fishing and wildlife observation. Browse more things to do in Massachusetts and plan your day trip.

World-renowned museums include the Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Science, Children’s Museum and the New England Aquarium, among other things to do in Boston . Browse more day trips from Boston

Within the Harvard campus, visit the famous glass flowers at the Botanical Museum, tour the Museum of Natural History for an exhibit of over 200 bird families and to browse the collection of more than 150,000 insects.

The National Park protects over 43,000 acres of historic lighthouses, cranberry bogs, seashore and wildlife. Enjoy seafood via casual or fine dining in any of the 15 Cape Cod towns. Try classic New England clam chowder, a lobster roll, or fried clams.

Castle Hill

290 Argilla Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938, Phone: 978-356-4351

Castle Island Park

2010 Day Blvd., Boston, MA 02127, Phone: 617-727-5290

Glendale Falls

Clark Wright Rd, Middlefield, MA 01243, Phone: 413-213-4751

Good Harbor Beach

99 Thatcher Rd, Gloucester, MA 01930

The tap room at Medusa Brewing Company offers up to 100 lagers and ales, including lunch and dinner. Shop the quaint boutiques along Main Street, and of course, visit one of the many farmer’s markets.

Quaint streets are lined with early American houses. Self-guided audio tours of the historic city center are available at the Visitors Center, located in an 1820’s home.

Visit the Marblehead Museum, the Marblehead Lighthouse, or the 1638 Old Burial Hill for a unique view of the town.

Martha’s Vineyard

More ideas: Wedding Venues on Martha’s Vineyard

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

More ideas: Drive-in Theaters in Massachusetts

New Bedford

Close the day with an evening performance of the New Bedford Ballet or Symphony Orchestra. Browse more places to visit in New England on your day trip.

New York, NY

Take a ferry or sailboat to Ellis Island to visit the Statue of Liberty National Monument. Sports fans will enjoy visiting Yankee Stadium or Madison Square Garden. Browse best things to do in Times Square, NYC and plan your visit.

Day Trips from Massachusetts: Newport, RI

More ideas: Weekend Getaways in Rhode Island

Plimouth Plantation

137 Warren Ave, Plymouth, MA 02360, Phone: 508-746-1622

The Mayflower Meetinghouse, known as the birthplace of religious freedom in the United States, offers tours and functions today as a the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church of Plymouth. Beyond history, enjoy the seafood in this coastal town, and shop for locally made arts and crafts. Browse more things to do in Plymouth, MA and don't forget to visit one of the beautiful beaches in Plymouth

Provincetown

Museums include the Provincetown Art Association and Museum, the Whydah Sea Lab & Learning center and Pilgrim Monument, marking the site early pilgrims first explored before sailing south to Plymouth. Enjoy the beaches, hotels , nature and wildlife, shopping and dining .

Purgatory Chasm State Reservation

More ideas: Best Massachusetts State Parks

Revere Beach

More ideas: Beverly, Massachusetts

North Shore Kayaks offers kayak rentals, or simply walk to any of the area beaches to dip your toes in the water. More weekend getaways from Boston

Hundreds of walking tours are available for history buffs, foodies, ghost hunters and modern day witches. More things to do in Salem .

Spectacle Island

Spectacle Island, MA

Webster Lake

Webster, MA 01570

• 1. Acushnet
• 3. Cambridge
• 4. Cape Cod
• 5. Castle Hill
• 6. Castle Island Park
• 7. Glendale Falls
• 8. Good Harbor Beach
• 10. Ipswich
• 11. Marblehead
• 12. Martha’s Vineyard
• 13. Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
• 14. New Bedford
• 15. New York, NY
• 16. Day Trips from Massachusetts: Newport, RI
• 17. Plimouth Plantation
• 18. Plymouth
• 19. Provincetown
• 20. Purgatory Chasm State Reservation
• 21. Revere Beach
• 22. Rockport
• 24. Spectacle Island
• 25. Webster Lake

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Great things to do in massachusetts.

Find great, fun things to do and fresh places to explore in the Bay State for every age and taste, from antique shopping to rock climbing to slithering through a water park. Check attractions' websites for updates to scheduling and other details, especially for activities affected by weather. Every region, from the historic homes and gardens of the Berkshires to the beaches of Cape Cod offers memorable adventures for the whole family. Plan a getaway to the cultural and historic sites of Boston and spring for a luxury hotel or waterfront lodging in this “Athens of America.” Follow these links for : Sightseeing - Walking & Hiking - Family Activities

Island Queen

75 Falmouth Heights Road Falmouth, MA, 02540 Phone: 508-548-4800

An ocean of fun things to do when you ferry from Cape Cod to Martha’s Vineyard

Worcester Art Museum

55 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA, 01609 Phone: 508-799-4406

In this museum, there’s more to do than admire paintings (tho the paintings are amazing)

Old Sturbridge Village

1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, off Route 20 Sturbridge, MA, 01566 Phone: 508-347-3362 Toll-Free: 800-733-1830

Re-created 19th-century village is more than a museum – it’s an interactive experience

Battleship Cove

5 Water Street Fall River, MA, 02721 Phone: 508-678-1100 Toll-Free: 800-533-3194

A day out you won’t forget

1620 Winery

55 Cordage Park Circle Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-746-3532

W. Russell Blake Planetarium

117 Long Pond Road Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-830-4470

Plymouth planetarium provides perfect evening for star-gazers

Plimoth Patuxet Museums

137 Warren Avenue Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-746-1622

Museum featuring a variety of hands-on experiences to acquaint visitors with 17th-Century life

See Plymouth

4 North Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-747-0100 Toll-Free: 800-872-1620

Whatever you love to do on vacation, Plymouth can provide it — and so much more

American Heritage Museum

568 Main Street Hudson, MA, 01749 Phone: 978-562-9182

Visitors will feel like they are part of history at this interactive, educational museum

Seekonk Grand Prix

1098 Fall River Avenue Seekonk, MA, 02771 Phone: 508-336-8307

So many fun options when you spend the day at this raceway with a game room, bumper cars, mini golf

The House of the Seven Gables

225 Derby Street Salem, MA, 01970 Phone: 978-774-0991

Get inspired about history, and literature, when you visit this beloved many-gabled home

Discover Quincy

City of Quincy Welcome Center - 1259 Hancock Street Quincy, MA, 02169 Phone: 617-471-1700

From bikers and beach-lovers to shoppers and skiers, everyone has a great time in this welcoming city

Salem Witch Museum

19 1/2 Washington Square North Salem, MA, 01970 Phone: 978-744-1692

Immersive exhibits at with trials museum shed light on a dark period of New England history

Meet Boston

Information Centers on Boston Common and Prudential Towers (Center Court) Boston, MA, 02116 Phone: 888-733-2678

With so much history, and so many activities, vibrant Boston has something for every visitor

Southwick’s Zoo

2 Southwick Street Mendon, MA, 01756 Phone: 800-258-9182

Adventure Awaits at New England’s Largest Zoo, Southwick’s Zoo!

Greater Merrimack Valley

61 Market Street, Unit 1C Lowell, MA, 01852 Phone: 978-459-6150

Wide variety of activities, from concerts and theater to unique shopping and dining, in this vibrant area

The Steamship Authority

Ferry voyage to the islands off Cape Cod is the just the beginning of your adventure

Old Italy Flavors at Caffe Vittoria

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25 Best New England Day Trips (From Boston & Beyond!)

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Are you looking for day trips in New England? I can help! I’ve spent 20 years exploring New England, and made countless day trips in that time. I’m going to share some of the best.

There are New England day trips that take you to vibrant cities like Portland and Burlington, or day trip destinations to quaint hidden gem towns tucked away on the coast. If you’re based in Boston, this list includes several awesome day trips from Boston, but there are options from other starting points, too. New England’s small size makes it so great for this kind of trip!

I know there’s something for everyone on this list of day trips, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural hotspots, or something somewhere in between!

Table of Contents

The Very Best Day Trips in New England

Manchester, vt.

This is one of my personal favorites for New England day trips! I’ve been visiting Manchester, Vermont for 20+ years, and even though I no longer live in this area, I return to it often.

This southern Vermont gem is gorgeous year round, but I especially like visiting in the summer and fall when the weather is convenient for exploring and enjoying everything this area has to offer.

For example, a hike – or drive! – up Mount Equinox is the best way to really and truly appreciate the scenery of this stunning area of Vermont. The toll road is closed November through April, so if you’re counting on being able to drive up, time your trip accordingly.

Manchester is full of lovely shops and restaurants. My suggestions for can’t miss Manchester things to do include a visit to the Northshire Bookstore , tubing down the Batten Kill River, sampling a maple latte at Charlie’s Coffee House , and visiting the charming Vermont Country Store in nearby Weston.

Seriously, it’s a Vermont institution. You can’t miss it!

Otherwise, grab a bite to eat at any one of Manchester’s delicious restaurants : Depot Street Burgers in Manchester Center serves up a wicked good burger.

My personal recommendation for where to stay in Manchester is the Kimpton Taconic Hotel . This is such a charming boutique hotel experience and my husband and I absolutely love staying there.

It’s also home to the Copper Grouse , one of our favorite brunch spots !

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Looking for New England day trips that are perfect for outdoor adventure? Head to the Berkshires!

There is outdoor fun to be found in this area of Massachusetts year round, with excellent hiking trails , cross country skiing trails, ski areas, and more. The Berkshires is a blast in summer, fall, and winter !

If it’s more indoor recreation you’re after, you’ll love museums like Mass MoCA, the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum , and The Mount , Edith Wharton’s turn-of-the-century estate.

If you end up staying overnight, there are cool vacation rentals , cute cabins , and nice inns and hotels to choose from.

33 Main is a beautiful inn in lovely Lenox that’s perfect for a couples’ stay in the Berkshires!

Rockport, Massachusetts

Rockport is one of my personal favorite New England day trips! I’ve visited many times and love exploring this beautiful coastal town.

There are a ton of boutique shops and art galleries, delicious places to eat and grab breakfast , and some fantastic coastal scenery, including the iconic Motif #1 .

As an added bonus, you also have nearby Gloucester, home to one of the best beaches on the North Shore, Wingaersheek Beach. The water is so beautifully clear!

Don’t miss out on a visit to Lobsta Land , one of the top restaurants in Gloucester.

I love Cape Ann and always enjoy a visit to this beautiful area of New England.

If you end up staying overnight , you should definitely book a room at the Emerson Inn . It’s absolutely delightful!

Bristol, RI

Super cute, quaint, and very patriotic if you’re planning your New England day trip around the 4th of July, Bristol is one of those small town fun type of places that can feel like a breath of fresh air!

This is the perfect one day getaway destination for anyone who wants to have a nice, relaxing reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind.

Hang at Bristol Town Beach, tour Blithewold Mansion , check out the Mosaic Art Gallery, then grab a bite to eat. Portside Tavern is always a great choice for lunch and dinner, and they also have live music often.

PS if your day trip is during the weekend, they serve an incredible brunch with bottomless mimosas. Just sayin’.

If you do decide to do an overnight, book the historic Williams Grant Inn for a classic B&B experience.

Plymouth, MA

What could be a better New England day trip idea than a visit to America’s hometown? 

There’s a lot to do and see in Plymouth, like scoping out the Plimoth Patuxet Museum , Plymouth Rock, and the Mayflower II replica for the history buffs out there, and places like the Plymouth Bay Winery for enjoying the present day indulgences, as well!

As for restaurants, there are lots of great choices for where to eat during a Plymouth day trip. Two of the most distinctively Plymouth restaurants are the Rye Tavern , which dates back to the 1700s, and Tavern on the Wharf , one of the top seafood restaurants in the area!

For a little extra pampering, book a room at Mirbeau Inn & Spa and extending your trip – you won’t regret it!

Woodstock, Vermont

One of my absolutely favorite day trip destinations is Woodstock, Vermont . This is such a fun little town to visit!

You’ve got the Village Green and Woodstock Village that are everything that makes small town New England so freakin charming. You’ve also got covered bridges to enjoy, including some of the best in the state .

You’ve got boutique shopping at places like Yankee Bookshop and FH Gillingham & Sons , Vermont’s oldest independent bookstore and oldest family run general store, respetively.

Farm to table dining at spots like Worthy Kitchen abound, and it’s one of those restaurants where even just a burger and fries becomes a memorable meal!

I’ve stayed in a few local hotels and inns, but if you’re interested in a room with a view, book 506 on the River Inn . As the name suggests, you’re on the river and it’s beautiful.

You can read more about my stay here .

Providence, RI

The capital city of Rhode Island makes for one of the best day trips New England has to offer, period! 

There’s all kinds of great fun to be had in Providence , with an amazing art scene, interesting history, cute coffee shops, cool breweries, fantastic restaurants, and their Italian food? Whew.

If you find yourself at Andino’s in Federal Hill , you’re going to want to save room for dessert. It’s going to be hard to choose between crowd favorites like the homemade tiramisu and the ricotta cannoli, so maybe just order both?

If you can plan your trip to coincide with Waterfire , the incredible art installation that takes place numerous weekends throughout the year, you’ll really be in for a memorable Providence day trip!

PS if you wanted to just go ahead and upgrade to a weekend trip to PVD , I don’t blame you. There are a ton of great hotels in Providence, including historic hotels like The Graduate , formerly known as the Biltmore.

Newburyport, MA

Looking for a cute little seaside town to set up shop in during your coastal New England day trip? Say less, you want Newburyport MA! 

Less than an hour’s drive from Boston, you’ll find one of the best beach towns in Massachusetts , with Plum Island for all your strolling-on-the-sand-while-gazing-dramatically-out-to-sea needs. 

Newburyport is full of lovely coastal scenery like that, with the Newburyport Lighthouse, Plum Island Lighthouse, and Maudslay State Park offering some of the best views.

In fact, if you’d like to combine views with some of the best seafood on the coast, head to Michael’s Harborside for lunch or dinner. This is North Shore waterfront dining at its best!

It also has a super cute little B&B, so if you’re looking for romantic day trips from New England that will morph into an overnight trip, check out Compass Rose Inn .

Boston, Massachusetts

Depending on where you’re coming from, a day trip TO Boston might be on the docket, especially if it’s more big city vibes you’re after.

Boston is one of those places that truly has something for everyone. Sports fans will love catching a game or tour of Fenway Park, history lovers will appreciate walking the Boston Freedom Trail , and art and culture lovers will enjoy the multitude of Boston museums. 

One thing I love about Boston is the wide variety of options. There are incredible restaurants , coffee shops, breweries, rooftop restaurants and bars, and more. Contessa is one of the coolest rooftop restaurants in town, so if you can get in, GO!

Don’t forget to hit some of the top North End restaurants , including some famous cannoli bakeries.

I can tell you, seeing other people carrying around that little blue and white Mike’s Pastry box becomes Pavlovian… It’s hard to not drop everything and head to the North End to get my own!

There’s a lot to choose from if you want to stick to only one day in Boston, so if you decide to extend to a weekend or longer, I completely understand! If you decide to stay longer than a day, check out these resources:

• 9 Fabulous Boston Hotels with an In-Room Jacuzzi
• Where to Stay in Boston: The Best Hotels for Your Visit
• 15 Unique Boutique Hotels in Boston to Book

I loved staying at the Fairmont Copley Plaza during our romantic couples trip to Boston . It was just the right amount of luxury and elegance for us!

Kennebunkport, ME

For that classic Maine coastal vibe, it’s hard to find a better New England day trip than Kennebunkport ! You’ve got craggy beaches, boutique shopping, incredible restaurants, and so much more. 

Stroll through Dock Square, popping in and out of the great shops you’ll find there. It’s boutique shopping at its finest! Then head to one of the popular local beaches like Goose Rocks or Gooch’s to take in that sweet and salty sea air.

In fact, this is another one of those spots that really deserves more than a day, so consider booking a room at one of the Kennebunkport hotels like The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel – it’s also home to one of the best seafood restaurants in Kennebunkport!

New Haven, Connecticut

One of the top New England day trip destinations in coastal Connecticut, New Haven is a definite must visit.

Home to Yale, one of the most prestigious universities in the US, New Haven is one of those towns that is small in size but big in attractions!

This coastal Connecticut town has plenty of arts, culture, and attractions, with a variety of museums, libraries, coffee shops , parks, theaters, and restaurants to choose from – there’s always something happening in this college town!

Lighthouse Point Park and the New Haven green are two lovely outdoor spots to visit during your day trip. The New Haven green is one of the oldest in New England!

If you decide to extend your New Haven day trip overnight, book a room at The Blake so you can enjoy their art gallery expos and concert series that happen onsite. Live music at one of the trendiest boutique hotels in Connecticut? Sounds perfect!

Burlington, Vermont

My home for several years, I’ll always have a soft spot for Burlington , Vermont, and recommend everyone visit this incredible city at least once!

As far as day trips in New England go, Burlington may be an official city, but it still has that small town feel and it’s pretty easy to get around and fit a lot of fun into one trip.

Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington has so much to see and do and is a great place to visit for foodies and craft beer lovers especially.

In true Vermont fashion, most restaurants pride themselves on ingredients being locally sourced. Burlington is big on keeping the consumer footprint small!

Church Street Marketplace is one of the must visit places to go in Burlington, and there’s shopping, cafes, and street entertainment pretty much year round. Onyx Tonics is one of my favorite coffee shops , I suggest you order a maple latte – delish!

You really can’t skip out on a visit to Lake Champlain during your day trip to Burlington, and it’s walkable from Church Street.

There’s a beautiful waterfront park and the Burlington Bike Path skirts the edges for several miles, providing an ideal route for a bike ride or a run and lots of great hiking nearby , too.

If you’ve got time, getting out on the water is a must! You can go sailing, stand up paddle boarding or kayaking, or hop aboard one of the scenic ferries. A scenic cruise on Lake Champlain is always a good time.

Staying overnight? You’ve got a ton of great options but I recommend Hotel Vermont , it’s got a brilliant location and is within walking distance of all kinds of local hot spots.

Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Looking for island fun? Located off the coast of Massachusetts is one of the most beautiful New England day trip destinations for the summer. As long as you plan your visit during the warm weather months, there will be plenty of opportunities to head over and back on the ferry all in one day!

Martha’s Vineyard is full of fun things to see and do! You’ve got delicious restaurants, beautiful inns and hotels, and cool vacation rentals if your day trip turns into an overnight.

 Oak Bluffs is a great place for your New England day trip, offering a chance to see some of the top island sights like the colorful gingerbread houses, scenic Ocean Park, and the historic Flying Horses Carousel.

Interested in turning your day trip into an overnight? Book a room at the colorful boutique hotel, Summercamp !

Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

This is about as classic small town New England as you can get! 

If you plan your Litchfield Hills day trip for autumn, you can enjoy some of the fantastic fall foliage this area is known for. It's quintessential New England countryside, and you'll find some of the loveliest scenery in the Nutmeg State in this area of farms and gently rolling hills.

There are quaint fall day trip activities like fly-fishing on the Housatonic, kayaking on Lake Waraumag, and some of the best apple-picking , pumpkin-patching , and corn-mazing in the state! 

There are some of the best New England farm to table restaurants in Litchfield restaurants and surrounding areas, as well. This is one of the best day trips in New England for those looking for a slower pace.

The Litchfield Hills includes towns such as Torrington, Woodbury, Kent, Cornwall, and Washington - very English-y names, aren’t they?

If you’re looking for a lovely place to extend your stay, consider The Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington. Not only is this a perfectly classic New England hotel, but legend has it it was also the inspiration for Lorelei Gilmore’s inn The Dragonfly in the popular Gilmore Girls tv show .

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Pretty Portsmouth is one of the top destinations on New Hampshire’s Seacoast, and I love visiting this cute little town! Portsmouth is very historic and is actually the third oldest city in the nation. It’s an excellent New England day trip for history lovers.

One of the must visit spots in Portsmouth is the Strawbery Banke Museum, the outdoor living history museum with actors portraying historic residents of the town and showcasing what life may have been like in historic Portsmouth.

Prescott Park is another outdoor spot you should scope out on your day trip. It's so pretty!

Portsmouth has a great foodie scene, and a visit to Market Square is perfect for shopping. There are some pretty cool bars and breweries in Portsmouth, too!

If you do decide to extend your visit, book a room at the Hotel Portsmouth !

Stowe, Vermont

Looking for a New England day trip that takes you to a classic, iconic mountain town? Stowe, Vermont is where you want to go!

Nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, you’ll find this lovely mountain town is perfect for day trips in summer, fall, or winter.

The Main Street of this stunning village has a white-steepled church and an old-fashioned general store, and the mountains provide a perfectly picturesque backdrop. This is an especially popular Vermont fall foliage day trip destination.

There are countless cozy eateries and shops to explore.

The Von Trapp Brewery and Bierhall is one of my top recommendations because it's just oh, so Stowe.

Hiking is plentiful, with trails suitable for all ages that offer a variety of beautiful mountain views. If you're looking for a skiing day trip in New England, Stowe is a top notch choice.

Stowe is a lot of fun and I always enjoy my visits. It is one of those day trip places in New England that achieves the perfect balance of outdoor activities with relaxation and ‘indoor stuff.’ I personally find it especially fun in summer !

PS did you know Emily's Bridge in Stowe is considered not only one of the most haunted places in Vermont, but also in all of New England ?? Cross it... if you dare.

Planning to extend your day trip to an overnight? You’ve got some great hotels and vacation rentals to choose from, but you can't go wrong booking a stay at the culturally significant Trapp Family Lodge !

It’s a bucket list New England experience.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Attention all outdoor enthusiasts, I’ve got the perfect New England day trip for you!

Acadia National Park is one of those beautiful areas of New England where the mountains and the ocean collide, and visitors are treated to stupendous views in addition to all the fun this area offers.

Located on Mt. Desert Island, you’ll find all kinds of great hiking and natural attractions, like Thunder Hole and Ocean Path. There’s a wide variety of things to do during your day trip to Acadia !

Beautiful Bar Harbor (the town at the entrance of the park) is filled with restaurants, shops, and great places to stay , so if you’re looking to extend your visit, you’ll find plenty of gorgeous Acadia hotels , cabins , camping sites, and more to choose from.

Definitely grab a bite at Side Street Cafe while in Bar Harbor, it's absolutely fantastic!

If you do end up staying overnight, I recommend Bar Harbor Inn & Spa .

It’s absolutely gorgeous and I love staying at this beautiful inn!

Listen, there are so many Cape Cod town s that would be the perfect New England day trip that I couldn’t decide on just one!

There are beautiful and peaceful walking trails and scenic views along Cape Cod National Seashore, gorgeous beaches, lighthouses, and so many great attractions all along the Cape.

You can go whale watching , stroll the darling downtown areas and their art galleries and gift shops, visit the wineries, and fill your belly at the top ice cream spots and restaurants on the Cape. 

Truly, Cape Cod is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in New England, so seafood lovers will rejoice!

There are incredible places to visit and stay all around the Cape , so you won’t go wrong wherever you choose!

I especially loved staying at the charming Captain’s House Inn in Chatham with my little family.

More About Cape Cod:

• Cape Cod in the Fall: 15 Things to Do
• 13 Things to Do in Wellfleet MA: A Cape Cod Getaway
• 25 Top Things to Do in Hyannis MA
• 21 Terrific Things to Do in Provincetown MA

Newport, Rhode Island

Looking for a little taste of luxury and glamour on your New England day trip? You’ll definitely find it on Aquidneck Island in Newport RI . 

It’s one of those NE day trips that is fun year round, but it becomes especially charming at Christmastime. Hallmark Christmas movie vibes , for sure.

One of the main attractions in Newport is visiting the Newport Mansions , the historic Gilded Age gems that you can tour and fawn over. I especially loved touring The Breakers.

Newport is one of those day trip destinations where there are plenty of opportunities for dining, shopping, beach walking, and museum-hopping.

There’s also the iconic Cliff Walk, where you can enjoy views of both the incredible ocean and the historic mansions. It's an incredible way to see Newport.

If you’d like to make this an overnight, there are some gorgeous hotels , including luxury options, and nice vacation rentals , as well.

If you’d like a personal recommendation, I absolutely loved staying at the Hotel Viking.

Their spa services are phenomenal!

North Conway, New Hampshire

One of the best day trips in New England for those seeking fun in the mountains, North Conway is the perfect gateway to the White Mountain National Forest.

New Hampshire’s White Mountains offer spectacular hiking trails and the Saco River for tubing and paddling. After your outdoor adventure, North Conway can help you refuel!

Conway is a mountain town providing a great mix of shopping and restaurants . Muddy Moose Restaurant and Pub is the perfect spot for dinner and drinks after a fun day out exploring the White Mountains.

Nearby Lincoln is also a great day trip destination, with Loon Mountain and all its fun! You can go skiing and ice skating in the winter, or ride the scenic gondola in the summer and fall to get a birds eye view of this gorgeous area.

If you’re looking to stay overnight, there are lots of cool places to stay in the area. The North Conway Grand Hotel is the perfect spot to get a good night’s rest!

Salem, Massachusetts

One of those iconic New England day trips that everyone should make at least once, Salem, Massachusetts is rich with history. You’ll have your pick of museums like the Peabody Essex Museum, and notable sites like the Salem Maritime National Historic Site to explore.

The site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials, you’ll find this area has many interesting historic sites and educational opportunities. Of course, there are also a variety of great walking tours , including ghost tours , if you’d like to get the full effect of the Witch City!

Salem is a town with lots of great things to do , places to eat , and if you’re into the spookier side of things, you can even visit some of its most haunted spots . 

I, as a child of the 90s, am particularly fond of visiting the Hocus Pocus filming sites . It's so cool to see them in person!

You can follow my ready made one day in Salem itinerary to take the guesswork out of your day trip. If it's a weekend Salem itinerary you'd like, I have that too.

If you’re feeling daring and want to stay in one of the most haunted hotels in Salem , I can recommend the Salem Inn !

I didn’t experience any paranormal activity while staying there with my husband, but we did love our stay there.

The Lakes Region, New Hampshire

If you’re looking for day trips for summer in New England , I wholeheartedly recommend the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. There’s so much fun to be had in this area of freshwater bliss!

It’s the perfect day trip for a summer day spent swimming and lounging at the lake.

The Lakes Region includes the areas surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee, Winnisquam Lake, Squam Lake, and Newfound Lake, and other smaller lakes and ponds (there are 273 in total!)

Some of the towns to visit include adorable Meredith (right on Lake Winnipesaukee), fun Laconia, and pretty Center Harbor.

In fact, if you’re staying overnight, you should definitely book a room in Meredith at gorgeous Mill Falls at the Lake . They have so many options!

Portland, Maine

Portland is one of those New England day trips that should be on everyone’s bucket list!

You’ve got arts and culture, boutique shops, craft breweries, excellent restaurants, bakeries , coffee shops and so much more in this classic port town.

Are you a seafood lover? Yeah, you’re going to love the lobster roll selection in Portland. You can even get a lobster roll flight at Highroller Lobster Co !

The nearby lighthouses , including Portland Head Light on Cape Elizabeth, are some of the most often photographed lighthouses in New England, and they’re a definite must see. Get out on the water on one of these popular Portland boat tours to see these beauties during your day trip.

Portland is a great day trip location, but there’s so much to do and see that it’s understandable if you decide to extend your trip ! 

You’ve got great options as far as where to stay in Portland goes, with cool boutique hotels and unique vacation rentals. I think the Press Hotel looks incredibly cool!

Mystic, Connecticut

I love Mystic! I truly believe it is one of the best day trips in New England. 

With classic New England seaside vibes throughout, this is an excellent way to explore the coast. Visit the Mystic Seaport and Museum to learn about maritime history and see the beautiful historic ships.

That’s not all there is to do in Mystic either . Must-visit sites on your day trip include the Mystic Aquarium, where you can say hi to the beluga whales, and Olde Mystick Village, where you can shop and enjoy incredible spots like Alice in the Village .

As awesome as this photo is, it was even cooler in person!

Don’t skip out on Mystic Pizza , yes that one from the Julia Roberts movie from the 80s. You younger kiddos might not get it, but send a pic of you dining at this pizzeria to your older relatives, they'll appreciate it!

Mystic is home to lots of great places to eat and stay , so if you do decide to extend your trip, I get it! The Whaler’s Inn is a beautiful boutique inn on the water.

Concord, MA

Interested in a little literary history? Head to Concord , where you can walk Walden Pond and find yourself again like Thoreau. Then visit the Ralph Waldo Emerson Home and the Louisa May Alcott house to see if the inspiration for the next American classic might strike you.

Concord has several great little restaurants and lovely outdoor spaces to explore like the Minute Man Visitor Center to make it the perfect low-key New England day trip.

Want to turn your day trip into an overnight? Book a room at Concord’s Colonial Inn , an absolutely charming historic hotel with popular onsite dining.

When is the best time of year for a New England day trip?

Personally, I like planning for a summer or fall day trip. This makes it less likely that the weather might curtail your quick travel plans, and in general, New England is beyond beautiful this time of year.

Of course, New England is also a winter lover's paradise! There is incredible skiing, XC trails, outdoor ice skating, snowmobiling, and other winter activities all around the state. It really just depends on what you're after, and always have your back up plan in case you have to extend due to weather.

One of the best parts of exploring this beautiful region is that there's something for everyone! Whether it's beachy bliss, mountain fun, or city sights you're after, you can find the perfect New England day trip to suit your needs.

You might also like:

• 10 Fun Connecticut Day Trips
• 9 Incredible Day Trips from Burlington VT
• 10 Best Day Trips from Boston: Road Trips to Take ASAP

14 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Massachusetts

Written by Alison Abbott and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 2, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Looking for a weekend getaway? Massachusetts is filled with places to visit that offer something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a weekend focused on sports, history, culture, or just want to relax on the beach , you will find a spot to explore that covers your interests.

Step into the past at Old Sturbridge Village or visit Boston for scenes of the American Revolution; in Salem revisit New England's great maritime history and glimpse even earlier times at Plymouth. Commune with great artists and writers of the past in the Berkshires, where many had summer homes and studios, and hear world-class musicians at Tanglewood.

Shop for antiques in Great Barrington or the shops that line the byways of Cape Cod. Beach lovers should head there, or to the islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard.

From the Berkshire Mountains to the beautiful coastline, choose places to go from our list of the top getaways in Massachusetts.

2. Nantucket

3. cape cod, 4. lenox and stockbridge, 5. provincetown, 7. southern berkshires, 8. martha's vineyard, 9. rockport, 10. sturbridge, 11. plymouth, 12. gloucester, 13. northampton, 14. gardens of the north shore, map of weekend getaways in massachusetts.

Boston is the perfect blend of old and new. Centuries-old neighborhoods, a rich history, and modern skyline make this one of the best cities to visit in the US .

Boston is the perfect weekend getaway for couples, solo travelers, and families no matter what your interests.

For those interested in taking a walk through the American Revolution, try the Freedom Trail . This two-and-a-half-mile walking route will take you through 16 historical sites, like the Paul Revere House and the Boston Commons .

If art and culture are what you crave, be sure to hit the Museum of Fine Art and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . No sports fan's trip is complete without a stop at Fenway Park , home of the Boston Red Sox and some of the most dedicated fans in baseball.

Boston is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Tourists will find the downtown waterfront a central location and excellent starting point for visiting the city's top attractions and things to do.

Where to Stay: The nearby Boston Harbor Hotel and InterContinental Boston are luxurious waterfront options. For classic elegance at modest prices, choose the landmark Boston Park Plaza , only a few steps from Copley Square and the Public Garden.

Although Nantucket is known for its beaches , there is so much more to see and do on your weekend getaway here. Thirty-six miles out to sea, this island is filled with maritime history, culture, and nature, making it the perfect weekend destination for anyone looking for an escape. The remote location and simple beauty just adds to the charm.

Stop by the Whaling Museum and Atheneum , which gives an understanding of the island's past. Rent a bicycle to explore. Within easy reach is the Brandt Point Lighthouse , and many of the pristine beaches, such as Cisco or Jetties Beach, can be accessed via the local transit.

Be sure to sample the amazing seafood at one of the town's many restaurants featuring fresh and local caught delights.

The easiest way to get to Nantucket would be to fly from Boston via Cape Air, or you can drive to Hyannis and take the ferry over. It will take a few hours either way, so the journey is best made on a long weekend. In season, this resort area caters to tourists with deep pockets.

Where to Stay: The historical Jared Coffin House is within walking distance to the harbor and many restaurants.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Nantucket

Cape Cod is the premier beach destination in New England and makes a perfect weekend getaway for those looking for sun, sand, and relaxation. No less than 14 lighthouses are located on the peninsula, which is more than any other county in America.

More than four million visitors a year enjoy the 40 miles of pristine beaches. While you are here, grab a bike and explore the 25-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail , which runs from South Dennis to Wellfleet. Or see highlights of the Cape landscapes during an excursion on the Cape Cod Central Railroad in Hyannis. It's one of the most popular things to do in Cape Cod .

Also in Hyannis, the John F. Kennedy Museum contains photos and multi-media exhibits about JFK, his family, and friends at the Kennedy summer compound.

History buffs will enjoy the Heritage Museum and Gardens , an eclectic destination with an antique carousel, vintage automobiles, beautiful gardens, and folk art.

Where to Stay: Chatham has many options for places to stay. The Chatham Inn is popular for its fire pit and chocolate-covered cranberries. Many of the hotels near the west end are motel-style. Midway Motel offers free Wi-Fi and parking.

Nestled in the beautiful Berkshires , these neighboring towns are filled with small-town charm, which lends perfectly to a relaxing, low-key vacation. Year-round activities make this a favorite for family trips, romantic getaways, or solo pursuits. The region becomes magical in the autumn, when the leaves change and vibrant colors fill the mountain.

If you just want to enjoy some peace and quiet, there are plenty of opportunities to do that as well. Take a class at the world-famous Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health or visit the nearby Norman Rockwell Museum , which houses the largest collection of his artwork.

Chesterwood, the summer studio of sculptor Daniel Chester French, and The Mount, home and garden of author Edith Wharton are here, as well; visits to the garden are free. A trip to the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum will take you back in time.

Summer visitors will want to check the schedule at the Tanglewood Music Center home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and other famous musicians mid-June through Labor Day.

Where to Stay: For an affordable taste of a Berkshires country estate from the Gilded Age, choose the Apple Tree Inn , on a hillside overlooking Tanglewood. The inn is a good choice for couples, while families will find reliable value at the Courtyard by Marriott Lenox Berkshires .

Provincetown is an eclectic town known for its vibrant culture, a picturesque harbor, and bustling art scene. P-town, as it's affectionately called, is located on the scenic end of Cape Cod and can be reached by ferry from Boston.

This harbor town has a year-round population of 3,000, which explodes to 60,000 in the summer months. While you are here, head to Commercial Street , which is the prime people-watching destination and a fun place to grab a bite to eat, shop, or just wander around.

Make a stop at the Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum , which commemorates the Pilgrims' first landing in Provincetown. Take the elevator to the top of the monument, one of the tallest all-granite structures in the US to get amazing views of Cape Cod.

Where to Stay: The seasonal ferry from Boston makes a great day trip, but if your stay in Provincetown involves an overnight, the Cape Colony Inn has an above-ground pool among its many amenities.

Salem is a town rich in history, with a dark past as the site of the Salem Witch Trials. Because of this, there are many attractions in Salem that explore this time in American history.

Despite its Puritan past, Salem is still a great weekend destination for couples with many different interests. Book lovers will enjoy stopping by the House of the Seven Gables , the setting for Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel of the same name.

When dark falls on Salem, adventurous souls can head out for the Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour .

One of the area's best collections of art and maritime history, especially the China Trade, the Peabody Essex Museum has excellent rotating exhibitions and a 200-year-old Chinese House reconstructed inside the museum.

Where to Stay: Families appreciate the indoor pool at the Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites , two blocks from the water. The free parking is a plus in what can be a congested area in Salem. The beautiful and historic Hawthorne Hotel is centrally located and within walking distance to many of Salem's best places to visit.

If you prefer mountains to beaches or cities, the southern Berkshires are a perfect getaway for you. Located in the western part of Massachusetts, the Berkshires hold everything you could possibly want in a weekend trip: small towns , countless antiques shops, great food, terrific hiking, and the peace and quiet of quintessential New England living.

Shopping for antiques is a favorite pastime in Great Barrington, where antiques galleries and co-ops line Route 7. Several of these are sprawling group shops, and Asia Barong is as much a museum of Asian art as an antiques store, its larger artifacts and stone statuary spilling out into the yard.

Bash Bish Falls is the highest single-drop waterfall in the state, reached by a short, easy hike. The 60-foot falls is split into two halves by a huge boulder. More ambitious walkers can experience a short portion of the nearby Appalachian Trail as it goes through the wild and picturesque Sage's Ravine , in Mt. Washington State Forest.

Where to Stay: To stay amid antique surroundings and dine by candlelight in a 1700s inn, choose The Old Inn on the Green , in the lovely Berkshires village of New Marlborough.

Martha's Vineyard is the perfect getaway to leave the hustle and bustle of Beantown behind. This island has long been a prized vacation spot for Boston's elite, and others just wanting to escape, and is a larger island alternative to Nantucket.

While you are here, rent a bicycle so you can explore the island at your leisure. On the southwestern tip of the island is Aquinnah Cliffs , a popular tourist spot, where you can see the impressive clay cliffs. From the top, you can view the Gay Head Light or Elizabeth Islands.

For animal lovers, head to Island Alpaca , where you can meet one of the friendly Huacaya alpacas and tour the beautiful farm. The main draw of Martha's Vineyard is the beach, so be sure to enjoy the ocean, sand, and sunshine on your trip.

Martha's Vineyard is a few hours from Boston , but well worth the drive. You can also reach it via ferry or plane. Direct flights are available from Boston and New York City.

Where to Stay: The affordable boutique Franklin Hotel in Edgartown is a 15-minute walk from a choice of restaurants. In the same modest price range, Mansion House is close to the ferry landing in Vineyard Haven, and includes the use of a pool and health club.

Massachusetts is filled with many eclectic towns, but none more than Rockport. This seaside community sets the stage for a fun and unique weekend getaway. Just an hours' drive from Boston, you will feel like you are a thousand miles away when you step foot into this quaint village.

As you walk along the picturesque harbor, you can't miss recognizing the iconic Motif #1 , a famous fishing shack that has been a favorite subject for generations of artists and photographers.

Walk down to Bearskin Neck , which is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries or just enjoy the magical views, which have inspired artists for centuries. You can walk the somewhat rough coastal path or drive to Halibut Point State Park , a former oceanside quarry with a lighthouse and ocean views.

Where to Stay: Away from the hustle and bustle of Rockport proper, The Seafarer Inn offers a waterfront location across the street from a small beach. If a bed-and-breakfast is more to your liking, The Tuck Inn is very popular and has an extensive breakfast filled with delicious offerings.

The town of Sturbridge, in Central Massachusetts, is best known for one of the finest historic village museums in the east. Old Sturbridge Village replicates a typical village of the early to mid-1800s, with historic homes, shops, and other structures moved here from across the region.

You can watch interpreters as they spin flax, dye wool, turn pots, make tin lanterns, saw logs into boards, plant and harvest their gardens, and prepare meals on open hearths. A day here is an exceptional experience for families, as there are many things to do for children.

The town of Sturbridge itself has a long history as you can see from the Sturbridge Common Historic District on the green where the militia trained during the Revolution. In keeping with the historic theme, shop for vintage treasures in Sturbridge Antique Shops , where more than 75 dealers from all over New England show antiques and collectibles.

Where to Stay: The conveniently located Comfort Inn & Suites has spacious rooms suitable for families, as well as a heated indoor pool.

Affectionately referred to as "America's Hometown," Plymouth is best known for being where the Pilgrims landed in 1620. A trip to Plymouth wouldn't be complete without a stop at Plymouth Rock where it all began.

For an immersive look at how the first settlers lived, don't miss one of New England's premier living history experiences, Plimoth Patuxet Museums (formerly Plimoth Plantation). Here, you'll see replicas of the houses and farmyards of the 1620 pilgrims, and interact with interpreters who play the roles of actual historic figures. A second village illustrates the everyday lives of the Native Americans who lived here before and during the Pilgrim years.

Plymouth's many historic attractions include the replica Mayflower II, Pilgrim Hall Museum , and the Plymouth Grist Mill, a working mill that has been in operation since 1636 and opens to the public on Fridays at noon.

Another popular thing to do here is visiting the W. Russell Blake Planetarium . Visitors experience astronomy with the only 4K high-resolution full-dome planetarium south of Boston.

Where to Stay: The Hilton Garden Inn Plymouth is a popular, good-value hotel with a central location and free Wi-Fi.

For couples and families who want to experience a true New England fishing village, head to Gloucester. This quintessential New England town houses the country's oldest seaport and was a prominent shipbuilding town. Here, you will find the Fisherman's Memorial , one of the most noted and photographed statues in New England.

Gloucester is great for whale watching. These gentle giants can be seen from shore or for the more adventurous, with one of the many other charters in town. Gloucester is also home to the centuries-old Rocky Neck Art Colony , the oldest working art colony in America.

Before you leave, you have to indulge in one of the prized local seafood restaurants to enjoy the ocean's bounty.

Where to Stay: The typically New England Beauport Hotel Gloucester is located on the waterfront with a rooftop pool. Plenty of restaurants in the city's bustling center reward visitors with a variety of options after a day in the sun.

For those with a love of the arts, Northampton is one of the best small arts towns in the nation. This historic town is filled with independent artists and galleries. Smith College boasts an impressive art collection in their Museum of Art .

Be sure to stop by the college's Botanical Gardens or just walk through the historic town and take in the sights. You can also rent a bike and take a ride down the Norwottuck Rail Trail , enjoying nature and the sights by the Connecticut River.

Where to Stay: Spend the night at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Springfield/Northampton , about a 10-minute walk to town. This brand from Marriott includes free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking. Families enjoy the indoor pool, and suites are available.

From a base in the historic town of Newburyport or the colorful fishing port of Gloucester, you can tour several of the beautiful North Shore gardens.

At Long Hill , in Beverly, you'll find a series of garden "rooms" in various styles, with a Venetian pavilion and a Chinese pagoda. Other highlights are the fan-shaped steps and a 1.2-mile walking trail through the adjoining woods. Perennial flowers bloom from June through September.

In North Andover, the Stevens Coolidge House & Gardens is an early 20th-century estate with a walled rose garden and a French-style vegetable garden. The gardens have been restored and enlarged, and are especially beautiful in the early spring when tulips are in bloom.

The Italian gardens of the Crane Estate at Castle Hill in New Ipswich have been restored to their original design by the Olmsted Brothers, with fountains, statuary, and a rolling Grand Allée that stretches to the water. At their height in June, the flowers bloom well into autumn.

Glen Magna Farms and Garden , in Danvers, is owned by the Danvers Historical Society and features a formal Italian Garden and an Old Fashioned Garden with a gazebo. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Joseph Chamberlain, the gardens are especially lovely in the late spring when fragrant wisteria drapes from the colonnade.

More on Massachusetts

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Massachusetts

Day trips from massachusetts.

• Massachusetts to Boston
• Massachusetts to Newport
• Massachusetts to Plymouth
• Massachusetts to Johnson Creek
• Massachusetts to Salem
• Massachusetts to Kennebunkport
• Massachusetts to Oak Bluffs
• Massachusetts to Edgartown
• Massachusetts to Cape Elizabeth
• Massachusetts to Concord
• Massachusetts to Zemo Aketi
• Massachusetts to Merrimack
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Boston to Plymouth Day-Trip including Quincy, Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II

2. Martha's Vineyard Day Trip with Optional Island Tour from Boston

3. Boston to Newport Small-Group Day Trip with Breakers & Marble House Admission

4. Boston to Coastal Maine & Kennebunkport Guided Daytrip with Trolley Tour

5. Best of Boston Small Group Tour w/Boat Cruise + View Boston

6. Plymouth & South Shore Full Day Private Tour from Boston

7. Full-Day Minivan Tour of Revolutionary Boston, Lexington and Concord

8. Private Day Tour to Salem MA, Kennebunkport, Kittery

9. Boston to Coastal Maine Private Day Trip

10. Revolutionary Tales: Boston, Cambridge, Lexington & Concord

11. Private Shopping Tour from Boston to Kittery Premium Outlets

12. Private Shopping Tour from Boston to Merrimack Premium Outlets

13. Private Full Day Tour to Coastal Maine from Boston with Hotel pick-up

14. Boston to Newport Mansions Private Day Trip

15. Private half Day Tour to Salem and Marbelhead from Boston with pick up

16. Private Shopping Tour from Boston to Wrentham Village Outlets

17. Private tour of Martha's Vineyard with lunch included

18. Private Day Trip From Boston to the Newport Mansions

19. Full-Day Private Tour of Boston with Pick Up

20. Boston to New Hampshire Fall Foliage White Mountains Day Trip

21. New England Fall Foliage and History Full Day Tour from Boston

What travelers are saying.

35+ Amazing Day Trips From Boston Massachusetts

Wondering where to go on a day trip from Boston? Boston has always been my most frequent city of travel. I’ve lived there too. Based on my own experience exploring the region, here’s my list of 35 great day trips from Boston.

Boston is perfectly situated in the northeastern region of the United States . This area of New England boasts gorgeous beaches, charming Colonial towns, seaside ports, and destinations steeped in history.

These destinations are all less than 2 hours away from Boston. Any more than 2 hours is just too far afield for a proper day trip.

Because of its central location, Boston makes a great launchpad for day tripping in New England. Boston is well-connected to other towns and cities. Boston’s main arteries (I-90, I-93 and I-95) give you easy access to Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Western Massachusetts, and even Vermont.

Boston’s main arteries (I-90, I-93 and I-95) give you easy access to Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Western Massachusetts, and even Vermont.

On a day trip from Boston, you can escape the city’s adoring (and sometimes maddeningly intense) crowds.

Best Day Trips From Boston

Here are my picks for the best day trips from Boston. I’ve given you a whopping 36 options, along with expected drive times. I’ve listed them in alphabetical order for ease of reference.

The options for Boston day trips are endless and incredibly varied. There’s something of interest for everyone, from culture vultures to history buffs to nature lovers.

You can pick what suits you most, whether you want to relax on the beach or explore a cozy New England town.

If pressed to choose, I’d have to say my top three picks for Boston day trips are Portland Maine (cool foodie city), Stockbridge Massachusetts (quintessential New England town), and Portsmouth New Hampshire (adorable arty village).

1. Bristol Rhode Island (1:10 Drive)

Bristol is a beautiful New England town that’s full of history and charm. With a red-white-and-blue painted stripe down Hope Street, it exudes Americana. 

Bristol has everything you need for a relaxing break from Boston — fine dining, bike trails, art galleries, and ocean views. A highlight of Bristol is its well preserved historic architecture. In Bristol, you’ll find Colonial, Federal, and Gilded Age buildings. 

Linden Place Museum features a stunning spiral staircase and movie memorabilia. Blithewold Mansion has immaculately curated gardens, hosts concerts in the summer, and offers dramatic harbor views.

If you like to hike or bike, the East Bay Bike Path will suit. It’s a 14.5 mile paved path connecting Providence and Bristol, which gives you panoramic views of Narragansett Bay.

2. Cambridge Massachusetts (5 minute drive)

The easiest day trip from Boston is to its next door neighbor, Cambridge. Historic Cambridge is a lively university enclave, with the Charles River as its playground and backyard.

Cambridge is home to the renowned Harvard University (where you’ll be wrapped in red brick) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (where you can admire eclectic modern architecture). You can book a walking tour of Harvard here and a tour of MIT here .

And it’s not just the universities that dazzle. In Cambridge, visitors can enjoy outstanding museums, a vibrant performing arts scene, and delicious haute cuisine restaurants.

The  Harvard Art Museums  are the best art spot, with a range of works from antiquity to present, including a prized Van Gogh .

Be sure to hang out in Harvard Square, the iconic center of Cambridge. It’s a triangular plaza located at the intersection of Battle Street, John F. Kennedy Street, and Massachusetts Avenue.

You’ll find all manner of humanity — students, tourists, political activists, buskers, chess players, and other street creatures.

You can also visit  Longfellow House . It’s located on Brattle Street, the historic road connecting old Cambridge and Watertown.

The house museum is famous as the one time home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. He was a novelist and poet who wrote stirring tales that thrilled 19th century America, including the  Midnight Ride of Paul Revere .

3. Cape Elizabeth Maine (2 Hour Drive)

Cape Elizabeth is gorgeous little town just south of the city of Portland. The town faces out into Casco Bay.

People have lived in Cape Elizabeth for thousands of years. In 1765, Cape Elizabeth officially became a town. For a glimpse of those early days, stop by the  Spurwink Meeting House . The austere white clapboard church was built in 1802.

The town’s stretch of coastline is stunning, dotted with lighthouses. The cliff walk is a lovely must do experience in Maine.

The 19th century Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth guards the entrance to Portland. It’s home to the Portland Head Light. You can walk the park’s Arboretum trails, enjoy a picnic, or explore the fort’s old batteries.

3. Charlestown Massachusetts (5 minute drive)

Charlestown is Boston’s oldest neighborhood. It’s just across the river from the North End.

If you’ve walked the Freedom Trail in Boston, you’ve already been to Charlestown. The town is home to the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution, which are must visit landmarks in Boston .

In 1775, Charlestown was the site of one of the most important battles of the Revolutionary War. American patriots defeated the British in the Battle of Bunker Hill. Nearly the entire town was destroyed during the battle and it wasn’t rebuilt until after the war ended.

Nowadays, Charlestown is a pretty place that’s well worth a stroll. A sense of Colonial charm permeates the streets and parks of Charlestown. The town has a classic main street, town square, and pretty clapboard homes.

4. Chatham Massachusetts

A visit to Cape Cod is a no-brainer day trip from Boston. But where to stake your claim?

Try the inimitable charms of Chatham, a tony New England town. In Chatham, the homes induce jaw drops, the historic center is walkable, and the seafood is hauled in just offshore.

Chatham’s curving Main Street conjures up low key elegance and old world charm. Chatham is the only Cape Code town bounded on three sides by water. It’s consistently ranked as one of the US’ best beach towns.

Chatham Lighthouse Beach is considered the most scenic public beach. It’s set beneath Chatham’s iconic lighthouse. This wild stretch of the Atlantic is the place for long walks and sunbathing (the surf is rough).

If you need a dose of culture with your beach retreat, head to the Orpheum. It’s a restored vintage theater showing first run movies and classics.

Or, take in a play or musical at the Monomoy Theater, after browsing the casual to high end shops.

5. Concord Massachusetts (35 Minute Drive)

Just 15 miles north of Boston is the small town of Concord. It’s the perfect Boston day trip for literary buffs. Concord is a steeple-studded town home to pretty  Walden Pond . Walden Pond is a nature preserve that’s home to countless local flora and fauna.

Walden Pond is forever linked to novelist Henry David Thoreau. From 1845 to 1847, he lived in a one room cabin , the property of his friend and mentor Ralph Waldo Emerson. A replica of the original cabin is about half a mile from Concord.

There, he wrote one of America’s most famous novels,  Walden  or  Life in the Woods.   Walden  explored simplistic living, solitude, and harmony with nature.

In Concord, you can also visit Emerson’s House and Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House . The novelist based  Little Women  on her experiences growing up in this house with her sisters.

Today, the historic home is a museum. It has 80% of its original period furniture.

You can tour the kitchen, dining room, parlor, art studio, and the bedrooms. Louisa’s bedroom has the small white desk where she penned  Little Women  and other books.

If you want to learn about Concord’s Revolutionary War and literary legacy, visit the Concord Museum . On display, you’ll find Native American artifacts, Thoreau’s snowshoes and furniture, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s study, Paul Revere’s original signaling lantern, and period collections of decorative arts and furniture.

If you want to pay homage to Concord’s famous authors, visit Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. You’ll find the final resting places of Thoreau, Emerson, Alcott, and William Ellery Channing.

6. Concord New Hampshire (1:10 Drive)

Concord is the capital of New Hampshire. It’s a sleepy New England town that I used to spend parts of the summer in. Founded in 1734, Concord embodies the American spirit. There are a fair number of things to do in Concord.

You can visit the New Hampshire State House, built in 1819. It sports a gleaming eagle topped gold dome, reminiscent of Boston’s own state house. The New Hampshire legislature still uses the original chambers.

Just steps from the capitol is the New Hampshire Historical Society. It boasts a sculpture by the famous Daniel Chester French.

You can also visit Pierce Manse, the former home of President Franklin Pierce. Via a guided tour, you can see period artifacts. Franklin’s grave is also in town.

7. Essex Connecticut (2 Hour Drive)

Essex just exudes small town charm. It has a bucolic setting on the banks of the Connecticut River. The town is consistently rated as one of America’s best small towns.

Essex seems halted in time, looking much as it did during the height of its ship building prosperity. Essex has a picture perfect harbor. It’s scattered with charming inns and historic architecture.

On Main Street, whitewashed houses jostle side by side, in early Colonial and Federal styles. Pop into the Griswold Inn, especially for its vaunted Sunday breakfast. The cute shop Good and Curiosities sells gifts with a historical theme.

Essex is famed for its riverboat tour, the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat. On a 2.5 hour tour, you can travel by train and boat through the countryside. By boat, you’ll glide by farms, inlets, coves.

8. Exeter New Hampshire (1 Hour Drive)

Exeter was founded in 1638 by Reverend John Wheelwright. This pretty new England town brims with charm at every turn. The beauty of Exeter will appeal to everyone from art lovers to history buffs to recreational seekers.

You can take a leisurely stroll in the quaint and historic downtown. You’ll find elegant buildings with shops, restaurants, art galleries, and more.

Or, walk down tree-lined streets to discover historic homes, including the Ladd-Gilman House that’s now the  American Independence Museum .

If you want to experience the great outdoors, Essex has hiking, biking, and water sports. During New England’s fall foliage season , the colors are truly breathtaking.

9. Hanover New Hampshire (2 Hour Drive)

As a graduate of Dartmouth College, Hanover is a sentimental favorite of mine. And it clocks in at 2 hours, my limit for day trips from Boston.

Forbes named Hanover one of America’s Prettiest Towns. For a remote rural town, Hanover packs a surprising cultural punch.

The best place to get your art fix is the wonderful Hood Museum of Art . It’s one of the oldest teaching museums in the country. It has a large collection of artifacts and art dating back to Assyrian culture in 900 BC.

But it’s not all ancient. The museum has a surprisingly good collection of contemporary art, with works by Rothko and Ed Ruscha. It also showcases contemporary African and Native American art.

You should also pop into Baker Library. You’ll find eye catching murals by Jose Clemente Orozco in the reading room.

Hanover is also home to the Hopkins Center for Performing Arts (the “HOP”). There, you’ll find a wide variety of performing arts — plays, shows, concerts, special events, movies, etc.

Here’s my itinerary for spending  one day in Hanover . In addition to just driving to Hanover, you can take the Dartmouth Coach from Logan Airport.

10. Hartford Connecticut (1:35 Drive)

Hartford is one of the oldest cities in the United States. It makes a great day trip from Boston if you want to visit another city. The capital of Connecticut is home to historic sites, art museums, and beautiful parks.

It’s also the birthplace of Mark Twain, a culinary powerhouse, and home to one of the best “little downtowns” in New England.

The Mark Twain House & Museum is a national historic landmark. The museum has it all: inspiring architecture, gorgeous interior design, lovely grounds, and fascinating stories about its owners. It offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the novelist Mark Twain, his family, and his legacy.

Another good reason to visit Hartford on a day trip from Boston is to visit the magnificent Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art . The castle-like museum is one of the best museums in New England .

The Wadsworth first opened its doors in 1844. It’s since grown to a collection of over 50,000 works of art from over 5,000 years. There are significant works of modern and contemporary art.

You’ll find works by Frans Hals,  Caravaggio , Orazio Gentileschi, and Bernardo Strozzi. There’s a beautiful painting by pre-Raphaelite artist William Holman Hunt called  The Lady of Shallot . There’s also an American art collection, with works by John Singleton Copley and Charles Wilson Peal.

11. Keene New Hampshire

Keene is a beautiful hidden gem in New England’s Monadnock Region. A lively college town, Keene combines culture and the great outdoors.

Keene offers stunning brick streets, charming maple farms, and quaint specialty shops. Keene even has a white clapboard church with a soaring steeple, the United Church of Christ.

Keene is also home to one of the loveliest and widest main streets in New Hampshire. The historic downtown area is centered on Central Square. It’s an eclectic mix of old time shops, bookstores, and funky craft stores.

Keene is also home to covered bridges and museums. The Horatio Colony House and Nature Preserve is housed in a 1806 Federal style building. The museum houses historical artifacts for the history buff. The nature preserve offers miles of hiking trails for the nature lover.

12. Kennebunkport Maine (1.5 Hour Drive)

Kennebunkport is a classic beauty, one of the most beautiful towns in New England . It’s effectively the Hamptons of the Pine Tree State, known for its dramatic mansions. To see them, take a drive between Kennebunkport and its sister town Kennebunk.

Kennebunkport has a lively downtown, the epicenter of which is called Dock Square. It’s chock full of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.

There are plenty of patio cafes for people watching perches. The Clam Shack serves up fried claims and lobster rolls.

For a walking tour of Kennebunkport’s historic buildings, start at the Brick Store Museum on Main Street. Head south and you’ll see several extraordinary structures from the 18th and 19th centuries, including Lexington Elms, Horace Porter House, and Benjamin Brown House.

Summer Street is also an architectural showcase, with an array of Federal and Colonial buildings. To get the complete scoop, you can take a guided 90 minute tour of Kennebunkport’s National Historic District. Buy tickets at the Brick Store Museum.

If you want to hit the beach, try Gooch’s Beach along the Victorian-lined Beach Avenue. Or drive 10 minutes north to the beautiful 3 mile long Goose Rocks Beach.

If you’d like to take a day tour from Boston, this excellent tour combines history and lobster. If you’d just like a guided walking tour once you’ve arrived in Kennebunkport, click here for a 2 hour historic tour.

13. Kittery Maine (1 Hour Drive)

The small town of Kittery is just a short drive from Boston. It’s located on the border between Maine and New Hampshire and is linked by bridges across the Piscataqua River.

Kittery was once known for its shipbuilding. Nowadays, people day trip to Kittery from Boston mostly for its shopping. Kittery has both outlet malls and boutique craft shops. You’ll find stores like Crate and Barrel, Le Creuset, Lululemon, Under Armour, and Nike.

If the weather is warm, head to the beach for a swim. Seapoint Beach is a picturesque shoreline perfect for a dip or a stroll.

You can also visit Fort McClary State Park . It’s a unique historic site that was formerly a defensive military fortification. It has stood for over 275 years protecting the mouth of the Piscataqua River at the entrance to Kittery.

14. Lenox Massachusetts (2 Hour Drive)

Lenox is the perfect day trip from Boston for art lovers. It’s a pretty town of art galleries and upscale boutiques housed in historic buildings.

You’ll find iconic properties like Blantyre, Wheatleigh, Canyon Ranch, and The Mount. At one point, there were so many lavish summer homes that Lenox was known as “the inland Newport.”

In 1902, Edith Wharton, the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in Literature, built  The Mount . It was a stately country retreat for the literary lioness and her then-husband. The Mount was modeled after European mansions, but lacked without their ostentatious excesses.

The Mount is home to a summer lecture series, weekly bird walks, concerts, theater performances, and outdoor sculpture exhibits. Edith Wharton’s library has been returned to the house, with 22 first editions of her work.

Lenox is also home to  Tanglewood , the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Tanglewood is a must do for music lovers. You can hear symphony orchestras, solo performances, and world class musicians.

15. Lexington (30 Minute Drive)

If you’re a student of U.S. History, Lexington should ring a bell. In 1775, the American Revolutionary War started in Lexington and nearby Concord. Lexungtin is the best day trip from Boston to immerse yourself in Revolutionary war history.

Lexington has more than 10 historic battle sites, cemeteries, and memorials that you can tour. You can see the site of the first battle of the Revolutionary War.

A renowned statue by sculptor Henry Hudson Kitson marks  Battle Green , where the Colonial Minutemen clashed with British troops. In Minuteman National Historical Park, you can see a multimedia exhibit on the Road to Revolution .

While waiting for the British, the Minutemen and their commander, Captain Parker, gathered in the  Buckman Tavern . The interior is preserved exactly as it appeared in the 18th century, complete with the original seven foot wide open fireplace. The old front door still contains British musket-ball holes.

Wrap up your tour of Lexington by seeing the Lexington Depot historic train.

16. Madison Connecticut (2 Hour Drive)

Madison is a shoreline town only East Coasters know about. This beautiful New England day trip from Boston proves the adage that good things come in small packages.

With a population of only 18,000+ residents, Madison delivers a major dose of quintessential New England charm. During his time at Yale, Bill Clinton was so taken with Madison that he mentioned it in his memoir,  My Life , calling it “especially old and beautiful.”

One of the main draws of Madison is Hammonasset Beach State Park . There you’ll find two miles of beaches, wetlands, woodlands, and a nice boardwalk.

The town itself is charming and pedestrianized, full of shops and cafes. A popular haunt is RJ Julis Booksellers, one of the nation’s finest independent shops for book nerds looking for the perfect read.

Madison is also a culture-filled hamlet. A fun outdoor activity is walking the Sculpture Mile . Created by the Hollycroft Foundation, it offers a unique museum-like exhibition that features art work by some of the nation’s most significant sculptors.

17. Manchester New Hampshire (1 Hour Drive)

You might think New Hampshire is all mountains and lakes. But it also boasts a rich cultural history. In particular, Manchester has some fine art offerings that merit a day trip from Boston.

Manchester is home to the state’s only fine art college, the New Hampshire Institute of Art. It also has an internationally acclaimed museum, the  Currier Museum   of Art .

The museum’s permanent collection includes works by Picasso, Monet, Rothko, Wyeth, and O’Keefe. It hosts touring exhibitions. The museum also manages Zimmerman House, designed by architected  Frank Lloyd Wright . It’s the only Wright house open to the public in New England.

Manchester also has a premiere contemporary arts gallery, the Gallery of the New Hampshire Art Institute. It’s multi-functional, serving as an art center, lecture hall, and performance theater. On display you’ll find a diverse mix of traditional and modern art forms, from photography to installation art.

18. Mystic Connecticut (2 Hour Drive)

Mystic is calm and exquisite, a charming waterfront town set on the shores of the Mystic River. It’s quaint downtown is filled with boutiques, galleries, and eateries.

On Main Street, you’ll find Mystic Pizza , made famous by a kitschy 1980s movie. Mystic’s main landmark is Bascule Bridge, the most photographed bridge in Connecticut and a perfect spot for river views.

Mystic Seaport is Connecticut’s #1 attraction, an example of “living history.” It covers 19 acres along the Mystic River.

There are indoor and outdoor exhibits, including four vessels that are National Historic Landmarks. You can climb aboard or peruse the recreated village.

19. Newburyport Massachusetts (1 Hour Drive)

First settled in 1635, Newburyport is an immaculate seaside town. It has a classic New England feel — with red brick streets, lobster shacks, and cobbled lanes. Plus, “the Port” is only 35 miles from Boston, making it the perfect day trip or weekend getaway.

State Street is the heart of Newburyport. You’ll find an eclectic treasure trove of shops — clothing boutiques, bookstores, cafes, and vintage shops. The Firehouse Center for the Arts is Newburyport’s cultural hotspot, offering concerts, musicals, and plays.

When you tire of shopping, surf and sand lovers can hit the beach. Plum Island is only a 20 minute drive from Newburyport.

Plum Island has beautiful and beloved sandy beaches and dunes. And it’s home to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, a hidden gem sanctuary with prime bird watching opportunities.

20. Newport Rhode Island (1.5 Hour Drive)

Just two hours south of Boston lies the tony coastal town of Newport. Founded in 1639, Newport is a treasure trove of historic European-style mansions set against ocean views.

Think the Gilded Age’s Astors, Vanderbilts, and Kennedys — families who built the first palatial mansions in the US. Newport is a fancy place.

Most of the mansions are on Bellevue Avenue and a few are on the waterfront. Built by Cornelius Vanderbilt, Breakers Mansion is Rhode Island’s #1 attraction. It’s located on the scenic 3.5 mile Newport Cliff Walk .

If you’d like to tour the magnificent mansions of Newport, this is an excellent day tour from Boston .

The Newport Art Museum is the core of the creative community. The Artists’ Open Space serves up local and regional shows year round.

There’s a dozen commercial galleries in town as well. Island Art is the best, noted for its contemporary pieces.

On the performance arts side, Newport really excels. It offers up everything from Shakespeare plays in Queen Ann Square to musical festivals dedicated to jazz, classical, and folk music in July and August. There’s also the Newport Fine Arts Festival in September.

21. Old Sturbridge Village Massachusetts (1 Hour Drive)

Old Sturbridge Village is a living history museum located in Sturbridge Massachusetts. The museum recreates life in rural New England as it was during the 1790s through 1830s. 

There’s a working farm with heritage breed animals, historic buildings, and horse drawn sleighs. Costumed historians are very engaging and will regale you with historic tales.

You can walk the village and meet the skilled craftsmen who still practice their trade. You can also take a wagon ride. The Village offers several events throughout the year — Winter Photo Walk, Sunday Brunch, and Dinner in a Country Village.

22. Ogunquit Maine (1:30 Hour Drive)

Feeling like a beach day? Nestled along the coast, tiny Ogunquit has been a resort village since the 19th century.

The word Ogunquit translates to “beautiful place by the sea.” You can see why immediately. Ogunquit is like a mini Provincetown. 

The town is a popular summer beach destination in New England, and I came here often as a child. Ogunquit has two beautiful long beaches, Ogunquit Beach and Footbridge Beach. Footbridge is the quieter of the two beaches.

Ogunquit is most renowned for its coastal path, the Marginal Way . It’s a paved 3 mile seaside stroll, starting at Ogunquit Beach and meandering to Perkins Cove.

Perkins Cove is a tiny artisans village, filled with sea-weathered buildings, where you’ll find some art galleries and seafood eateries.

23. Northampton (2 Hour Drive)

Just under 2 hours from Boston, the rural town of Northampton is a cultural nerve center in New England. It’s a pretty town, ringed by 5 colleges and college museums.

Grand mansions line tree-shaded streets. The beautiful Main Street is filled with with shops, art galleries, bookshops, etc.

In downtown Northampton, there are more than a dozen visual arts venues. The Northampton Center for the Arts offers poetry readings, film screenings, and concerts. The Calvin Theater is the premiere concert venue, hosing major touring music and comedy acts.

Four of the five colleges near Northampton offer theater and visual arts. Smack in the middle of Northampton is Smith College. Its beautiful  Smith College Museum of Art  just received a $35 million makeover. The museum offers a year round series of art lectures, contemporary art exhibitions, and films.

Just down the road is  Mount Holyoke College Art Museum . It offers contemporary and traditional exhibitions year round.

You can also admire contemporary work at Amherst’s Mead Art Museum or check out national and international exhibits at Amherst’s University Gallery.

Northampton has a good foodie scene too, with both great pizzerias and haute cuisine. There are two dairies nearby, so the town’s cheese and ice cream options are among the best in New England.

24. Peterborough New Hampshire (1:30 Hour Drive)

Peterborough is a charming New Hampshire hamlet set along the Contoocook River. Peterborough is rich in art and culture, with a charming downtown centered on Depot Square. Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize winning play,  Our Town , was based on Peterborough.

Peterborough has two theater groups and a renowned artist colony, The MacDowell Colony. The colony is the oldest artist’s retreat in the US, hosting many exhibitions. 

In 1997, it was awarded the National Medal of Arts. Peterborough is also known for its antique shops and galleries.

Nature lovers can head to Miller State Park , which has several trails (and a road) leading to the summit of Mount Monadnock. Edward MacDowell Lake has trails as well, in addition to a beach and boat ramp.

25. Plymouth (45 minutes)

Situated at the mouth of Cape Cod Bay, Plymouth is a historical haven for Boston day trippers. The town was the very first permanent settlement by Europeans north of Virginia. Today, it’s a thriving small town with a lovely historic district, perfect for history buffs.

After parking, first head to the  Mayflower II . It’s is a full scale replica of the original 17th century Mayflower.

The Mayflower is famous as the ship that brought pilgrims to the US in 1620. You can even take a tour of the ship itself, which is docked in Plymouth Harbor

Also, to learn the pilgrims’ tale, stop in the state’s oldest museum,  Pilgrim Hall . There, you’ll find an unmatched collection of ancient artifacts and possessions of the pilgrims. Afterwards, you’ll get to wander around historic  Howland House  and visit the 18th century Court House.

If you want to really step back in time, head to  Plimoth Plantation . It’s a living museum that aims to explore the daily lives of the Colonial Americans. The village has been carefully recreated, with thatched roofs and giant open fireplaces.

The actors in the museum are in period costume and never step out of character. You can watch them performing 17th century tasks including building, gardening, and military exercises.

26. Portland Maine (1:45 Hour Drive)

 Located on a peninsula jutting into Casco Bay, Portland is a rare metropolis in a state filled with small hamlets. It’s a hip and laid back place that almost seems too cool for one of  New England’s most beautiful towns . Portland is a great day trip from Boston for foodies.

Portland has myriad cultural offerings and is a bastion of historical preservation. The restored Old Port is a warren of cobbled streets with a movie set feel. This area is filled with vibrant Victorian buildings and buzzing farm to table eateries.

Start on Commericial Street, the main drag, and work your way inward. The Old Port is known for its cobblestone streets, 19th century brick buildings, and fishing piers. It’s also a hive of activity.

In downtown Portland, there’s a thriving art school, infusing the city streets with creative types. And there are 24 commercial art galleries.

Opened in 1983, Portland’s crown jewel and premiere art destination is the  Portland Museum of Art , an architectural masterpiece designed by I.M. Pei of  Louvre  fame. Its innovative architecture allowed curators to redefine the art viewing experience.

Restaurants and coffee bars are filled with visual art. In June, the revived downtown hosts the Old Port Festival, described as “part freak show, part art festival, part fashion parade.”

Portland is also a hot spot for restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment. Did I mention breweries? Beer lovers will be happy to know that Portland has 18 breweries all its own. It’s the Craft Bew Capital of America.

If you want to delve more deeply into Portland’s foodie culture, there are some awesome tours.

This tour takes you on a culinary walking tour of the Old Port and this tour lets you feast on seafood in the Old Port. If you’re a fan of craft beer, this tour gives you a taste of Portland’s amazing brew pubs.

27. Portsmouth New Hampshire (1 Hour + Drive)

The New Hampshire town of Portsmouth has also made an appearance on Forbe’s list of America’s Prettiest Towns. Portsmouth is a small town in southern New Hampshire along the Piscataqua River. 

Portsmouth is a great Boston day trip destination for art lovers and foodies. It’s known for its upscale farm to table eateries and art galleries.

Portsmouth’s funky downtown is adorable, with activity centered on Market Square. You’ll find classic white steepled churches, rustic brick shops, and sidewalk cafes. Portsmouth Book & Bar combines books, coffee, and live events.

History lovers should check out the Strawbery Banke Museum . It’s a 10 acre outdoor museum featuring period gardens, preserved historic buildings and detailing the story of how the Portsmouth settlement was founded. 

There are 39 historic buildings dating from 1695 to 1820. The Goodwin Mansion is the most impressive.

Prescott Park is a waterfront park near Strawberry Banke, which is great place to picnic. Enjoy the gardens and the Prescott Park Arts Festival, featuring concerts and foodie events.

in 2017, Travel & Leisure called Portsmouth the “Christmas Capital of North America.” It’s a wonderful New England Christmas destination. “Vintage Christmas” is a month long celebration kicking off December 1. A trolley does a loop of the downtown and a candlelight stroll is held on weekends.

Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Portsmouth in one day .

28. Providence Rhode Island (1 Hour Drive)

Nicknamed the “cooler city” by GQ, Providence is one of the  best towns on the East Coast . Providence is home to an Ivy League college, design schools, and a culinary institute. 

The city is a hodgepodge. It combines big city sophistication with small town charm. It has a vibrant local culture, celebrated restaurants, and sparkling waterfront parks. Providence is full of historic Yankee monuments, but also has a young and funky vibe.

Providence is an easy day trip from  Boston , less than an hour away. But this little jewel box of a city is often overlooked by travelers and definitely underrated. So much the better for its admiring visitors.

Be sure to explore Providence’s Little Italy on Federal Hill. Then, head to the East Side to encounter Providence’s Colonial past. Benefit Street is a bucolic 1.2 mile walk that’s an architectural showcase.

You’ll see some of the most beautiful Federal era architecture in the United States. You’ll also find the lovely campus of Brown University.

And you can’t leave Providence without visiting the fabulous  Rhode Island School of Design Museum . A major cultural institution in the United States, RISD houses over 100,000 works. It’s one of the best small museums in the world .

READ: 1 Day Itinerary For Providence

29. Provincetown Massachusetts (2 Hour Drive Or Ferry)

Do you want to combine a day at the beach with great art? head to Provincetown. The pretty town is tucked away on the far end of Cape Cod.

It’s been attracting artists and creative types for more than a century. Eugene O’Neill wrote his first play here. Modern art luminaries like Helen Frankenthaler, Marsden Hartley, and Hans Hofmann had studios here.

Nowadays, there are 60 art galleries scattered down Provincetown’s picturesque streets. It’s the perfect place for art lovers on the East Coast.

The town’s premiere art venue is the Provincetown Art Association and Museum on Commercial Street. The museum highlights local and New England artists with single artist and themed shows.

The Schoolhouse Center for Art & Design is home to several galleries as well. The Silas-Kenyon Gallery focuses on contemporary art. If you like vintage photography, head to the Driskel Gallery.

The big ticket art festivals you should have on your radar are the Spring Arts Showcase Weekend in May and the Fall Arts Festival in September and October. There’s also an International Film Festival in June.

Don’t forget to eat some lobster, preferably at the Lobster Pot . You can go wine tasting at  Truro Vineyards  or sip craft beers at the  Provincetown Brewing Company .

If you visit Provincetown in the summer, you could spend hours in traffic at the Sagamore Bridge if you drive. But you can also take the Providence Ferry . The fast ferry runs direct from Boston to Provincetown from mid-May through mid-October. It’s only 95 minutes each way.

30. Rockport Massachusetts (55 Minute Drive)

I f a stunning seaside town is on your Boston day trip agenda, head to Rockport. This little town is on Cape Ann, the “other” cape in northeast Massachusetts. There’s a reason why North Shore residents treasure Rockport as a lovely weekend getaway.

There are plenty of things to do in Rockport. Stroll around and admire all the fishing boats and painted cottages. Check out the shops and art galleries on Bearskin Neck, a cute area perched on the edge of town.

Sample some fudge at Rockport Fudgery , eat lobster rolls, relax on the beaches, or take a walk along the rocky coastline at  Halibut Point State Park . You can even go on a  Cape Ann whale watch .

31. Rye New Hampshire (1:10 Hour Drive)

Another good beach option is Rye. The picturesque town of Rye is home to the best beach on the 18 mile long New Hampshire shoreline.

First settled in 1623 on Odiorne Point, Rye is the birthplace of New Hampshire. Rye is largely undeveloped because it’s subject to strict zoning laws.

Rye is a serene contrast to the more frenzied Hampton Beach down the road. In Rye, the tide is small and rolling. It’s a perfect place for a beginner surfer.

You can also take a scenic drive down Route 1A past Millionaire’s Row and ogle at Rye’s breathing early 20th century mansions.

32. Salem Massachusetts (45 Minute Drive)

Even if you haven’t traveled in Massachusetts , you’ve probably heard of Salem. Known as the “Witch City,” Salem is a beautiful seaside town and an easy day trip from Boston.

In Salem, you can learn about Salem’s creepy past as the “witch capital” of the United States. Salem embraces its notorious past, when the infamous 17th century Witch Trials defined the town.

Salem is replete with whimsical magic shops, all things haunted horror, and ghostly tour options. Many of Salem’s top attractions are devoted to its witchy history. This means that the best time to visit Salem in during Halloween.

Salem is also famous for its beautiful 17th century Colonial and Georgian architecture and delicious seafood. Essex Street is the historic cobblestoned district, with the original brick  Old Town Hall .

Old Town Hall dates from 1816. The second floor still stands as a public hall and the first floor is used as a public art space.

If you’re a literary fan, you should visit the  House of the Seven Gables . Built in 1668, it’s one of the oldest Colonial mansions still standing in the United States. Nathaniel Hawthorne immortalized the house in his 1851 novel of the same name.

Inside, you’ll find a recreation of the secret staircase from the novel. The house where Nathaniel Hawthorne was born is also on the property.

Click here to buy ferry tickets to Salem.

There are some excellent guided tours in Salem. If you’re a history buff and want to take a witchcraft trials walking tour, this is an excellent guide . If you’re staying overnight in Salem, you can also take this haunted history nighttime tour or this ghosts of Salem walking tour .

33. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Park (30 Minute Drive)

Want to view some of the most massive animals on the planet? The  Stellwagen Bank National Marine Park  is one of the best whale watching spots in the entire world. It’s a wild ocean destination not far from Boston, just 37 miles away.

The sancturay has an extremely productive and diverse environment, which encourages a wide mix of marine wildlife.

Each summer, around 50 recognized humpbacks return. You can also spot dolphins and seals. There are plenty of whale spotting tours available in the area departing from Gloucester or Provincetown. Click  here  for a list of boat tour operators.

34. Stockbridge Massachusetts (2 Hour Drive)

Stockbridge is the quintessential New England town. It’s one of my favorite day trips from Boston.

Stockbridge was settled in 1734 by British missionaries. It’s blessed with simple charm and a fabulous line up of cultural attractions.

Three of the greatest American artists and authors called Stockbridge their home — Edna St. Vincent Millay, Herman Melville, and Norman Rockwell. One of America’s greatest treasures is the  Norman Rockwell Museum .

Rockwell was one of the greatest artists and illustrators in American history. Stockbridge was Rockwell’s long time residence and what he called his “best studio yet.”

You can also visit  Chesterwood , the home of Daniel Chester. It’s a 1920s Colonial Revival house.

It comes complete with the soaring studio of the legendary sculptor and landscape architect. Chester created the statue of President Lincoln seated in the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., and you’ll see plaster models in the museum.

Every summer, Stockbridge (along with Lenox) hosts the Tanglewood Music Festival. It’s a series of concerts across all musical disciplines.

Stockbridge is also home to one of the Berkshires Gilded Age “cottages,”  Naumkeag . You can tour this quirky 44 room mansion designed by Stanford White, a famed starchitect of the time.

 35. White Mountains, New Hampshire (2 Hour Drive)

It’s a hike to get to the White Mountains from Boston. But it’s worth the long drive to spend a day immersed in nature.

The White Mountains are New Hampshire’s premiere attraction. It’s the best day trip from Boston for fall foliage .

The White Mountains are incredibly beautiful, with plenty of natural wonders. They’ve long attracted vacationers, photographers, and adventurous hikers and skiiers. Mount Washington is the Northeast USA’s peak of superlatives. 

The sinuous Kancamagus Highway in the White Mountains is the granddaddy of New England drives. It’s a scenic 35 mile stretch of highway. You’ll be dazzled by the incredibly unspoiled scenic views along the way.

There a few pullouts for trailheads, providing great photo and hiking opportunities. Continue east until you hit the Rocky Gorge Parking Lot. Here, you can take a walk along the Swift River and get views of the beautiful Falls Pond.

 In Crawford Notch State Park , you can explore the backroads and revel in the beautiful fall colors. If you’d like to do some hiking, there are 35 hiking trails of varying difficulty.

Don’t leave without experiencing the  Mt Washington Cog Railway . It’s a historic train ride up to the summit of Mt. Washington. The mountain is the tallest one in the northeastern United States at 6,289 feet.

Aside from driving around soaking up the scenery, you can explore the cute downtown of North Conway, relax at  White Lake  in Tamworth, do a canopy tour at  Bretton Woods , go on a  waterfall hunt  near Conway. 

36. Worcester (1 Hour Drive)

Right in the heart of Massachusetts, Worcester is one of the best day trips from Boston. Worcester is the second largest city in Massachusetts after Boston. It’s just an hour away from Beantown.

Once in Worcester, take a gander through the huge exhibitions at the  Worcester Art Museum . You can easily spend a good few hours inside. The museum has works of Impressionism, Roman mosaics on the Renaissance Court floor, medieval armor, and Paul Revere’s silver collection.

Be sure to visit the  Bancroft Tower . On the National Register of Historical Places, it’s been around in Worcester since 1900. This fantasy medieval castle was built on a whim to honor a US Navy pioneer. It’s a miniaturized castle in the middle of a park.

At night, you can take in a theater or music performance at the elegant Hanover Inn, Mechanics Hall, or Tuckerman Hall.

I hop you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best day trips from Boston. You may enjoy these other New England travel guides:

• 3 day itinerary for Boston
• 1 day in Hanover New Hampshire
• 35 Landmarks in Boston
• 10 day itinerary for New Hampshire
• Berkshires Road Trip Destinations
• Hidden Gem Towns on the East Coast
• 10 day itinerary for coastal Maine
• 7-10 day itinerary for Vermont
• One week itinerary for southern New England
• Fall foliage road trip in New England

If you’d like to take some day trips from Boston, pin it for later.

4 thoughts on “35+ Amazing Day Trips From Boston Massachusetts”

Nice collection of day trips, but with the review of Salem, MA I can’t believe you left off both the Peabody Essex Museum (one of the best art and culture museums in New England) and no mention of any of the NPS sites and all the maritime history this city has.

I know the Peabody Essex Museum is amazing. I’ve written about it in my Salem article and in my article on the best museums in New England. I will add something here. But with a round up post, you can only write so much for each town.

This was definitely a trip down memory lane. I lived in New England for 23yrs and visited many of these destinations. You certainly did a great job on the history. I especially enjoyed the colorful pictures. I am drooling over just the thought of the lobster rolls on the Maine and New Hampshire coast.

I would love a lobster roll right now!

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Last Updated on July 4, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

13 Awesome Family Day Trips in Massachusetts By Season

Looking for the best family day trips in Massachusetts?

I often get stir-crazy with my daughter on the weekend and find that the best solution is to get out and explore somewhere new!

Taking day trips in Massachusetts as a family always feels like a win-win: my husband and I get to satisfy our wanderlust, even if just for a short period of time, and our daughter gets the benefit of experiencing new places and activities, too.

So without further ado, here are 13 of the best family day trips in Massachusetts.

Family Day Trips in Massachusetts: Summer & Fall

I’ve grouped these family day trips in Massachusetts into sections by seasons: summer/fall and winter/spring. While a lot of these places are nice to visit any time of year, there are seasonal activities and events that make them especially fun at a certain time.

Here are some great family day trips for the summer and fall:

1. Nantucket

My parents took me and my brother to Nantucket when we were teenagers and it was unforgettable. We rented a small cottage for a week and rode bikes all over the island and took “The Wave” shuttle bus to the best beaches.

Even though you could spend a few days or longer on Nantucket, you could easily make a day trip out of it as well. There is a high-speed ferry from Hyannis that will get you there in just one hour.

Your kids are sure to see it as an adventure to escape to an island for a day. You get the sense that you’re in another world for a little while!

Family Fun Things To Do

⭐️ Play on the beach: There are several great beaches on Nantucket, including Surfside Beach, Madaket Beach, and Siasconset Beach. If you have young children, Children’s Beach is on the harbor side of Nantucket and has much calmer water and a nice playground.

⭐️ Learn about life as a whaler : Older kids might appreciate touring the Whaling Museum and learning what life was like for whalers living on Nantucket over the centuries.

⭐️ Go lighthouse hopping: Hunt for Nantucket’s three different lighthouses on different parts of the island — Brant Point Lighthouse, Sankaty Point Lighthouse, and Great Point Lighthouse.

⭐️ Search for sea life : Explore more than 16 miles of sandy trails at Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge. Along the beachfront, you’re likely to spot horseshoe crabs, seals, a variety of birds, and other marine life!

⭐️ Hike the Sconset Bluff Walk : This unique, public trail winds through the backyards of private homes, with impressive ocean views scattered along the way.

For a list of other family-friendly beaches in Massachusetts, check out 13 Best Beaches in Massachusetts for Families .

2. Gloucester

Gloucester is a beautiful coastal town about 32 miles northeast of  Boston . It’s located on Cape Ann and isn’t far from another great family destination: Rockport (recommended in #3!).

We went to Gloucester for a summer beach day and had an amazing time. If you and your family are interested in spending a day by the ocean, Gloucester makes for the perfect getaway.

⭐️ Have fun in the sun at Good Harbor Beach : This is the most popular beach in Gloucester and it’s very family-friendly. It gets crowded in the summer but there are still plenty of parking spaces in the nearby lot.

🚗 You’ll need to reserve a parking spot ahead of time for about $35 a day.

⭐️ Indulge yourselves at Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe : I once saw an Instagram post asking for the best ice cream places in Massachusetts, and Holy Cow came up numerous times in the comments. We tested it for ourselves and can confirm: it’s DELICIOUS.

⭐️ Grab fish and chips from Turner’s Seafood : We stumbled across this place while driving through town, and it turns out they have the most delicious fish and chips. You can tell it’s where the locals go for their seafood — definitely a must-try!

⭐️ Tour a medieval castle : Did you know Massachusetts has its own castle? Hammond Castle, located right on the coast, is the former residence of scientist and inventor John Hays Hammond and is open for public tours.

🎟 Castle tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for kids ages 5-12 (free for kids 4 and under).

⭐️ Go on a whale watching tour: Gloucester is one of the best places in Massachusetts to spot whales. Book a tour with  7 Seas Whale Watch , a family-run business that has been around for more than 70 years.

Check out my full post, 13 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Gloucester, MA , for more ideas!

3. Rockport

Just four miles north of Gloucester is another popular North Shore beach town: Rockport. If you have a hard time deciding between Gloucester or Rockport as a day trip, you could easily visit both!

There’s no shortage of outdoor fun to be had in Rockport. From sandy beaches and scenic trails to fresh lobster rolls and ice cream, you’re sure to make long-lasting memories in this New England hot spot.

⭐️ Chow down on fresh seafood: You can’t be this close to the ocean and not enjoy a local catch! Both Roy Moore’s and The Lobster Pool have rave reviews for their seafood.

⭐️ Bike or kayak around Cape Ann : If you want to keep things active, rent bikes or kayaks from North Shore Kayak & Bike Adventures to explore Cape Ann on land or sea.

⭐️ Enjoy the sand and surf: Long Beach and Front Beach are two of the most popular beaches in Rockport and are great places to spend a few hours soaking up the sun with the family.

⭐️ Grab some ice cream at Bearskin Neck : The Ice Cream Store, Gifford’s and Sundays are all great ice cream options in this cute little part of Rockport. Be sure to also catch a view of the iconic red fishing house nearby, Motif #1.

⭐️ Go bird watching at Halibut Point : Hike the granite ledges of this beautiful state park near the ocean and keep your eyes open for a variety of birds and other wildlife.

4. Plymouth

Plymouth is a great day trip choice if you want a more historic and educational experience for your family. This coastal town is known for being the site of the first Pilgrim settlement and has several family-friendly places to check out.

⭐️ See Plymouth Rock : Check out the site that is said to be where the Pilgrims first landed in 1620 (after a brief stop on Cape Cod).

⭐️ Visit Plimoth Patuxet Museums : This living history museum is made up of two main exhibits, the Plimoth Plantation and the Wampanoag Homesite. Plimoth Plantation recreates a Pilgrim village with costumed interpreters who portray what daily life looked like in the 1600s. Similarly, the Wampanoag Homesite recreates a traditional Wampanoag village, where you can learn about the language, food, and clothing of Plymouth’s native inhabitants.

⭐️ Take a cranberry farm tour : Learn how Massachusetts’ number one food crop is cultivated by visiting a working cranberry bog. Massachusetts Cranberries hosts bus tours April-November and public harvest tours during weekends in October.

⭐️ Go kayaking : Billington Sea Kayak is on the shores of Billington Sea, a large inland lake in Plymouth. You can choose from kayak, canoe, or paddleboard rentals for some water fun.

⭐️ Play at Nelson Memorial Park : Enjoy this waterfront green space with a large playground and splash pad for kids to enjoy.

5. Cape Cod

Cape Cod is one of the most popular summer destinations in Massachusetts, and it’s easy to understand why with its many beaches and outdoor attractions. It’s only about 70 miles from Boston and easily accessible from other parts of the state as well.

If you go to Cape Cod during the busy summer months, be prepared for heavy traffic along the way, but once you arrive, it’s worth it!

⭐️ Enjoy a beach day: There are lots of awesome beaches on Cape Cod. Coast Guard Beach is one of my favorites, with great waves and soft sand.

⭐️ Picnic at Keyes Memorial Beach : Located on the Nantucket Sound side of Cape Cod, this beach has a grassy hill nearby that makes for a nice family picnic location.

⭐️ Go whale watching : Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises is one of the best whale watching companies on Cape Cod. We took a tour with them a few years ago and saw lots of whales and dolphins — an unforgettable family experience!

⭐️ Play at the Cape Codder Water Park : This large indoor/outdoor park has a variety of activities for kids, including four water slides, a wave pool, and a “stormy river” with waterfalls, rapids and a spouting humpback whale.

⭐️ Parasail or jet ski along Cape Cod Bay : Book sessions through Dennis Parasail and Jet Ski for a thrilling and unforgettable Cape Cod experience.

Salem is well-known for its superstitious past and is especially popular in the fall around Halloween, when you’ll see thousands of people walking in costume around town. But Salem is just as worth seeing in the warm summer months (and you’ll likely experience fewer crowds).

⛴ To make a day trip to Salem even more exciting for kids, consider taking a fast ferry from Boston via Boston Harbor Cruises.

⭐️ Visit the Salem Witch Museum : If you have older kids, it might be worth touring the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692.

⭐️ Take a Salem Walking Tour : Learn even more about the mysterious history of Salem through this popular, 5-star-rated walking tour.

⭐️ Tour the Peabody Essex Museum : Experience the oldest continuously operating museum in the United States, open since 1799. You’ll find dinosaur fossils, fashion items, Asian and maritime art, and lots more.

⭐️ Play at Salem Willows Park : This seaside park has great picnic areas and ocean views, but the biggest draw for kids is likely the video arcade and popcorn on site.

⭐️ Lunch and bowl : American Flatbread has its own bowling alley inside, so your family can order delicious wood-fired pizza followed by a competitive game or two…or three!

7. Mini road trip through the Berkshires

People gravitate toward Boston and the North Shore, especially in the warm summer months, but the Berkshires region on the west side of the state would make for a fun family day trip in Massachusetts as well.

For this day trip, I recommend hopping from one small town in the Berkshires to the next, catching a highlight activity in each place. It’s fun to take a road trip for a week or more, but if all you have is one day, a mini road trip can still feel like an adventure!

🍁 The best time to visit the Berkshires is from mid-September until early October. It’s one of the best places in New England to see the beautiful fall foliage! 🍁

Start your road trip in Lenox and work your way south through Lee, South Egremont, and Stockbridge before ending in Great Barrington. Below are key things to do at each stop:

⭐️ See a Tanglewood concert : Located in Lenox, Tanglewood is the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. If your family loves music, this is a great chance to see a world-class performance in a small town.

🦅 Note: Tanglewood performances only run in the summer, so if you are planning a fall day trip to the Berkshires, you could consider a visit to the Mass Audobon instead, where your family can go hiking, bird watching, or even volunteer together.

⭐️ Hike part of the Appalachian Trail : Located in Lee, October Mountain State Forest is Massachusetts’ largest state forest. The 5.9-mile hike to Finerty Pond is part of the Appalachian Trail. The entire hike takes around three hours to complete, but you could walk just a portion of it as well.

⭐️ Climb and zipline : Catamount Aerial Adventure Park is in South Egremont close to the New York border and features 9 different aerial trails with more than 150 different challenges.

⭐️ Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum : See the artwork of this iconic American painter in the historic town of Stockbridge. The museum often hosts family-friendly events with stories, crafts, and more. Pop over to Main Street Cafe for lunch afterward.

⭐️ Finish with a hike or show: Depending on your energy levels by this point, you can choose to either hike at Monument Mountain Reservation or see a show at the historic Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington.

Family Day Trips in Massachusetts: Winter & Spring

Here are my top recommendations for family day trips in the winter and spring:

People rave about Boston in the fall, but my favorite time to see the city is actually in the spring when the trees are in full bloom and the town comes alive after a long, cold winter.

There is a never-ending list of things to do in Boston, including plenty of activities for kids. We’ve lived here for well over a year now and are still constantly finding new places to take our daughter.

⭐️ Explore Boston Common and the Boston Public Garden: These historic parks are right next to each other and are great places to let kids run around without worrying about cars. The Boston Common includes the Frog Pond, which turns into an ice rink in the winter!

⭐️ Tour the city on a duck boat : The iconic Boston Duck Tours are a unique way for families to learn about the city. These “amphibious” vehicles can ride on both land and water, so your tour will include views from within the city and from the vantage point of the Charles River.

⭐️ Eat authentic Italian food in North End : North End is known as Boston’s Little Italy and is the perfect place to stop for lunch or dinner. I recommend pizza from Regina’s Pizzeria on Thacher Street, followed by the most delicious cannolis from Mike’s Pastry on Hanover Street.

Note: Be sure to bring cash as a lot of places in North End are cash-only!

⭐️ Visit the Museum of Science: Our daughter had a blast here. There are lots of interactive, themed exhibits, including dinosaurs, robotics, and New England wildlife. The museum sometimes even hosts special activities for kids to enjoy during part of the day. When we went, they had a trampoline building contest.

⭐️ Go on a Freedom Trail scavenger hunt: The Freedom Trail is one of the best ways to tour Boston by foot and see 16 key historic sites that played a role in the Revolutionary War.

You could make the Freedom Trail more entertaining for kids by asking them to search for key details at each site (like Paul Revere’s gravestone at the Old Granary Burying Ground or the angels on the organ at Old North Church).

9. Lexington & Concord

Lexington and Concord were made famous for their role in the American Revolution, but these neighboring towns also have a literary history and plenty of natural beauty to enjoy during a family day trip.

⭐️ Hike around Walden Pond : Visit the place that inspired author Henry David Thoreau to write his famous novel Walden . Walk the 1.7-mile trail around the pond and finish off with a refreshing swim. Along the trail, you’ll also come across the former site of Thoreau’s log cabin.

⭐️ Visit Minute Man National Historical Park : Learn about the Battles of Lexington and Concord — the “shot heard round the world” — that started the American Revolution at this national park in nearby Lincoln. Follow the Battle Road Trail and see the famous Old North Bridge.

⭐️ Canoe or kayak down the Concord River : Rent boats from the South Bridge Boathouse and navigate your way along the Concord River to see Old North Bridge and other historic sites.

⭐️ Experience a working farm : Verrill Farm hosts lots of family-friendly events in the summer, including kids cooking classes, a strawberry festival, and pancake breakfasts.

⭐️ See an interactive show at Playtime Theater : Concord Youth Theatre actors perform familiar children’s stories throughout the winter and spring, complete with sing-a-longs. These shows are best for ages 2-9, and tickets are $5 at the door (no advance sales).

10. Northampton

Northampton is a popular town in western Massachusetts filled with artistic and interactive attractions for the whole family.

⭐️ Check out the Northampton Ice Art Festival : In January each year, artists spend a day carving sculptures that are then put on display in the city — come marvel at the amazing creativity!

⭐️ Explore the Eric Carle Museum : This museum, located just a few miles outside of Northampton, is devoted to children’s picture book art and has a variety of special exhibits every year targeted to families.

⭐️ Bike the Norwottuck Rail Trail : Ride along the scenic, 11-mile paved trail that used to be the Boston and Maine Railroad.

⭐️ Race each other on go karts : Just a few miles outside of Northampton is Pioneer Valley Indoor Karting, an indoor go kart track that will put your racing skills to the test!

⭐️ Go sledding at Hospital Hill :  This popular hill has different levels of steepness for both beginner and experienced sledders.

11. Great Barrington

I mentioned Great Barrington as a stop during a mini road trip through the Berkshires in the Summer/Fall list, but it’s worth spending an entire day here in the winter for some fun in the snow.

⭐️ Butternut Ski Area and Tubing Center : This is one of the most popular ski resorts in Massachusetts. They’ve been in operation since 1962 and have the motto, “Where families go to play in the snow.” Enjoy 22 different ski trails and a snow tubing hill!

⭐️ Go snow hiking at Monument Mountain : Strap on some good snow boots and enjoy a wintery hike at Monument Mountain Reservation.

⭐️ G rab delicious brunch from GB Eats : Enjoy breakfast all day or a variety of other menu items, including a mouthwatering cider milkshake. This is a favorite restaurant for Butternut Ski visitors.

⭐️ See a show at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center : After a long day of playing in the snow, relax while watching a movie or live performance at this historic theatre. They often feature family-friendly shows.

12. Marblehead

For a small-town family day trip experience, visit the quaint seaside town of Marblehead just 16 miles north of Boston. This is a great choice if you’re looking for a quieter day out.

⭐️ Climb the rocks at Castle Rock Park : This is Marblehead’s hidden gem. The entrance to the park is easy to miss, but once you walk inside, you’ll be greeted by the most majestic ocean views. Kids will love climbing the giant rock formation that’s right on the coast.

⭐️ Enjoy lunch at Shubie’s Marketplace : After you’ve had your fix of rock climbing at Castle Rock Park, head over to Shubie’s for fresh sandwiches and cannolis.

⭐️ Explore Mud Puddle Toys : I stumbled across this toy store the last time I was in town, and they have the most fun assortment of games and activities to choose from. If you don’t mind giving your kids some temptation, this is a fun stop to make during your day in Marblehead.

⭐️ Watch the sunset at Chandler Hovey Park : This grassy park is known for its excellent sunsets and is a great way to finish off your day in Marblehead. Be sure to walk to Marblehead Lighthouse while you’re there.

13. Worcester

Worcester is Massachusetts’ second-largest city and about an hour west of Boston. If you’re looking for an urban day trip with your family but Boston feels too overwhelming, Worcester is a nice alternative option.

⭐️ Try the Central Rock Gym : Escape the cold and enjoy this indoor rock climbing gym, which includes lead climbing, top roping, bouldering, fitness, and yoga.

⭐️ Walk through the New England Botanic Garden : If visiting Worcester in the spring, explore this 171-acre botanic garden just eight miles north of the city. They host special activities for kids and families, including the self-guided “Love Letters to the Garden,” “Spring Story Walk,” and “Beats & Blooms: Spring Sing-A-Long.”

⭐️ Explore the EcoTarium : Check out this science and nature museum with interactive exhibits for all ages, including live animal habitats and nature trails.

⭐️ Try an Escape Room : There’s nothing like a little healthy tension to bond as a family. 😉 Try one of the four different escape rooms at Escape Games Worcester: Dreamscape, Fallout, Conspiracy, and Museum.

⭐️ Go sledding : There are several great places to go sledding in Worcester, including Quinsigamond State Park, Holy Cross College, and Green Hill Park.

BONUS: Day Trips From Boston

If you’re based in or visiting Boston, there are lots of amazing family day trip options within a short driving distance, even outside of Massachusetts. Three of my favorite destinations from Boston are Newport, Rhode Island; Portsmouth, New Hampshire; and Portland, Maine.

✅ Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is only 70 miles (about a 1.5-hour drive) from Boston and is one of New England’s biggest gems. This bustling seaside town is a great place for families to spend a day.

There are numerous shops and restaurants along Thames Street in downtown Newport. The Red Parrot restaurant has a large menu with a variety of options to satisfy different palates (you know, for those picky eaters ;)).

Kids will likely enjoy the Newport Harbor Shuttle Loop , a hop-on, hop-off water taxi that takes you to several of Newport’s main attractions, including Fort Adams State Park.

The Cliff Walk is another must-do activity in Newport. It’s a 3.5-mile trail right along the ocean — a great place for your kids to release some energy before touring one of the historic Newport mansions, like the Breakers.

🎧 To keep your kids entertained inside the mansion, download the app and bring headphones for each of them so they can listen to the self-guided audio tour.

✅ Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is one of my family’s favorite day trip destinations. It’s only about 63 miles north of Boston and is a great way to escape the big city and have a more small-town feel.

The food is one of the biggest draws of Portsmouth. I highly recommend  The Flatbread Company , with their wood-fired pizza made from locally sourced ingredients. Kids often enjoy sitting on the bench by the oven while the chefs make the pizzas.

The Friendly Toast is a great brunch place for families, with its eclectic, vintage interior and fun assortment of kid-friendly meals.

Both restaurants are on Congress Street, one of Portsmouth’s main streets that is filled with boutiques and restaurants.

Once you’re done exploring in town, head over to Jenness Beach or Rye Beach for some fun in the sun.

✅ Portland, Maine

About 112 miles north of Boston (1 hour and 45 minute-drive) is the artsy town of Portland, Maine. This would be a great place for your kids to try their first lobster roll. We really enjoyed High Roller Lobster Co .

Pay a visit to one of the smallest lighthouses, Bug Light , which stands at only 26 feet tall. It’s located at Bug Light Park, a nice coastal park for your kids to let off some steam.

Another fun activity to do in Portland is ride the historic  Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad . You also can’t miss a stop by America’s most photographed lighthouse, Portland Head Light , only a few miles outside of Portland.

“ The Bug ” by Carol Boldt is licensed under  CC BY-SA 4.0 .

Here are answers to a few other frequently asked questions about family travel in Massachusetts and New England as a whole:

What is there to do in New England with a toddler?

So many things! A lot of the activities mentioned in this post would be great to do with toddlers. Here are a few ideas:

Have a beach day

There are plenty of amazing beaches throughout New England.

• Massachusetts: Good Harbor Beach, Coast Guard Beach, and Long Beach
• Connecticut: Silver Sands State Park and Hammonasset Beach State Park
• New Hampshire: Rye Beach and Jenness Beach
• Rhode Island: Narragansett Town Beach and Easton’s Beach
• Maine: Old Orchard Beach and Ogunquit Beach

Visit kid-friendly museums

Here are some of the best museums for kids in New England:

• Massachusetts: Museum of Science and Boston Children’s Museum (both in Boston)
• Connecticut: Kidcity Children’s Museum (Middletown) and The Children’s Museum (West Hartford)
• Maine: Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine (Portland)

Go to a playground or waterpark

There are lots of great parks in New England for toddlers to enjoy. Some of the best ones in Massachusetts include Constitution Beach (East Boston), Salem Willows Park (Salem), and Cape Codder Water Park (Hyannis).

Is Massachusetts family-friendly?

Yes, Massachusetts is very family-friendly! Hopefully this post gives you a good picture of all there is to do with your family in this state.

Whether you enjoy exploring in nature, relaxing on the beach, touring museums, or playing games, there are plenty of options for a fun family day out.

How do I spend a day in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire is a beautiful state with a variety of things to do with your family. Here are a few ideas:

• Hike or ski in the White Mountains
• Explore downtown Portsmouth and nearby Jenness Beach
• Visit an apple farm or pumpkin patch
• Go kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Winnipesaukee

Conclusion: Family Day Trips in Massachusetts

There are many great options for family day trips in Massachusetts for every season of the year. Here is a quick recap of the destinations covered in this post:

Summer and fall

• Nantucket: Enjoy some island fun
• Gloucester and Rockport: Neighboring coastal towns with great beaches
• Plymouth: Historic sites from the 1600s
• Cape Cod: Lots of beaches and water activities
• Salem: Mysterious town with a complex history
• The Berkshires: Colorful fall road trip

Winter and spring

• Boston: Exciting and historic city
• Lexington and Concord: Stories of the American Revolution
• Northampton: Artistic and cultural hub
• Great Barrington: Snowy paradise in the Berkshires
• Marblehead: Quiet seaside town
• Worcester: Mid-size city in central Massachusetts

Have fun exploring with your family!

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Adventures in New England

A local's guide to savoring the history, culture, food and nature of the Northeast USA

19 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston

If you are planning a road trip from southern New England, Boston can be a perfect base as it is centrally located. You can get a hotel and then take many great day trips from Boston to experience the best that this area has to offer.

You will want to start by taking a few days to experience New England’s largest city’s feel. You can read my guide for One Day in Boston with Kids (still a good overview even for adults). Also, be sure to check out my list of hikes right around Boston .

Table of Contents

Short Day Trips from Boston

These day trips from Boston are around an hour’s drive from Boston.

Salem, Massachusetts

Witch City, USA, also has a fantastic art museum and Hawthorne’s House of the Seven Gables. Read on for how to spend a day in Salem. 

Fall River and New Bedford, Massachusetts

This center of fishing life in colonial New England is now predominately Portuguese. You can visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum, the church that was part of Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick inspiration, and the Lizzie Bordon House.  Read more about the area in Haunted New England.

Rockport, Massachusetts

Spend a day exploring this picture-perfect fishing village on the coast north of Boston.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

There is a lot to explore on this peninsula south of Boston, but you can explore the upper Cape in one day from Boston. Most of my exploration of the Cape has been by bicycle.

Portland, Maine

This foodie town also has lighthouses and parks to explore. Check out 47 Cool Things to Do in Portland, Maine.

Providence, Rhode Island

The capital of Rhode Island has canals to stroll along, great restaurants, and art museums. Read on for The Best Things to Do in Providence.

Newport, Rhode Island

This colonial town on Aquidneck Island has excellent beaches, hiking, dining, and a lot of history. Explore A Local’s Guide to Newport.

Sutton, Massachusetts

Hike this trail along the base of the 75-foot rock Purgatory Chasm and get ice cream at the farm next door. Read more about a day at Purgatory Chasm.

Concord, Massachusetts

Concord was not only an important location in the American Revolution but also in American Literature. Walden Pond sits in Concord, as well as Louisa May Walcott’s home. Read my itinerary for one day in Concord, Massachusetts.

Plymouth, Massachusetts

Visit the recreation of the Native American and pilgrim colony following the landing at Plymouth Rock.

New Bedford, Massachusetts

Explore the colonial whaling capital of the world, located on the southern coast of Massachusetts. This area also has a large Portuguese population, a fort, and was a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Read about how to spend a day in New Bedford. 

Whole Day Trips from Boston

It will take about 2 hours to get to these full-day trips from Boston.

Martha’s Vineyard

Sand dunes, farms, Kennedy history, and gingerbread cottages, this island off the coast of Massachusetts will introduce you to the best New England has to offer. Read on for Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard .

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is sometimes known as the quintessential New England town. It is nestled in Vermont’s Green Mountains and alive with the state’s art culture. Plan your day with Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont.

Northampton, Massachusetts

This arty town in northwest Massachusetts is the home of Smith College. Read on for how to spend a day in Northampton.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

One of the most transcendent concerts you can experience will take place at Tanglewood in the rural mountains of western Massachusett. The Berkshires give ample opportunities for hiking, leaf-peeping, and exploring small New England towns.

New Hampshire’s White Mountains

Take a foliage drive or go waterfall hunting through the White Mountains.

Mystic, Connecticut

Explore the seaport at this colonial town on the Mystic River. Investigate more things to do in Mystic.

Mount Major, New Hampshire

The views from the peak of this half-day hike are incredible. You will see New Hampshire’s lakes and highest peak, Mount Washington, in the distance. Learn more about climbing Mount Major.

Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts

This village nestled in the Berkshire Mountains has the Bridge of Flowers, a waterfall, glacial potholes and an art-filled downtown. Read about how to spend a full day in Shelburne Falls.

Which day trips around Boston have you taken? Which are the highest on your list? Please let me know if you have any questions in the comments.

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12 thoughts on “19 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston”

I love this list! Boston is such a cool city and I love the idea of spending more time there and venturing out so this list is so helpful!

So many great day trip options from this city! Nice when there is that option, for travellers, it means you can extend your holiday. Make Boston your home base and see some of those smaller towns you have listed. I would love to see more of the nature, in New Hampshire, like Mount Major or Massachusetts with Martha’s Vineyard.

Such great day trip plans even a month of stay there will not suffice to experience it all! The short day trips really sound good and doable. I have not been to Boston yet, but hopefully I will some day with this helpful post! Great pic to go with the post.

Wow! So many things to do. It would really be worthwhile to make Boston a base for a week and do these trips to immerse yourself in the region.

Visiting the east coast has always been something i’ve wanted to do. I’ve seen Boston & DC but that’s about it! Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, Main, I want to see them all!

Funny enough I’ve heard most of these day trips destinations from Boston although I don’t know their locations to Boston. I would like to visit most of them, but I think Fall be the best time?

Some of the locations are close enough for a day trip but would plan an early start in the day because even though they are close enough for a day trip, traffic can play a big factor especially during rush hours… planning a trip to the South Shore or Cape Cod offers only 2 travel lanes for most of the trip once you are on Route 3 which starts in Braintree which is about 9 miles south of Boston and the from Braintree to the beginning of the cape it’s about 45 miles or so… I mention this trip because I am very familiar with this section of MA and I live in Plymouth which is about 10 miles from Cape Cod… The Fall or Spring would be best as far as traffic to the cape but many places close down from Oct to Apr because many businesses depend on tourists during the Summer.

You are right about Boston traffic being a bugger. It is always best to consult Google traffic before leaving, start early or consider public transport. I love travelling in shoulder season.

While there’s still so much to see and do on my actual Boston list, I *did* take a day trip from Boston during one of my visits. We followed your recommendation to visit Providence, RI, and had a lovely day!

I just love the northeast and you’ve given me even more places to explore up there! Perfect fall long weekends!!!

Cape Cod, Massachusetts would be my #1 choice. Haven’t been since I was little and have such fond memories!

I have been to Boston several times now and even took a trip up to Maine & Connecticut once but I have been quite lax on visiting the other areas. For me, I really want to see more of the New England Coastal areas like Providence and I know Darcee would love to see Martha’s Vineyard!

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14+ Day Trips in Massachusetts With Kids

Posted on Published: 07/02/2023

It’s a small state, but my home state of Massachusetts is filled with family-friendly activities. From the historic attractions in Boston and Plymouth to the beaches on Cape Cod and the Islands, there’s so much to do. Whether you are visiting Massachusetts on its own, or as a part of a larger New England vacation, here are great day trips in Massachusetts with kids.

We’ve experienced a few of these things at no cost for review. This post contains affiliate links, and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Things to Do in Massachusetts With Kids

You can’t talk about places to visit in Massachusetts without leading off with the capital city of Boston. Boston is filled with family activities and is one of the best places to visit if you are hoping to see historical sites. You can even choose to stay in Boston and take various day trips from Boston as well as explore the city.

To get an overview of the sites of Boston, consider the popular Duck Boats (book in advance – they sell out!) as well as the trolley tours. This can be a good way to see everything quickly and get a good understanding of the history of Boston.

There are also several great museums to visit in Boston. For younger kids, the Boston Children’s Museum offers so many fabulous hands-on exhibits as well as a large climbing feature that’s perfect for burning off energy. Visit early in the day for lower crowd levels, because it definitely can get busy.

There are other fantastic museums in Boston. These include the New England Aquarium, the Boston Museum of Science , and the Boston Museum of Fine Art. All have elements that kids would enjoy.

Our favorite of these is the Museum of Science because there are so many different hands-on things for kids to do. Stay for an IMAX or planetarium show, and you’ll be there for most of the day. The museum also features traveling and interactive exhibits. It’s a great place to learn about science and have fun and there’s something for kids of all ages.

The New England Aquarium, located on the Boston Waterfront, offers both indoor and outdoor exhibits focused on marine life. It also features an IMAX theater offering nature-themed movies.

The Boston Museum of Fine Art is probably best for older kids. In addition to the art galleries, there is also a popular mummy exhibit that kids enjoy. They do have some kids’ programming throughout the year, so check their website for details.

If you are interested in history, be sure to walk the Freedom Trail. You can book a walking tour, or walk it on your own.

A walking tour is a great option for families looking to learn more about the history of the Freedom Trail. There’s also the Tea Party Museum and the USS Constitution along with other historic sites. Here’s one walking tour that can be booked in advance .

For theater and culture, you can see a show from the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Symphony Hall or a play/musical in the theater district. Several theaters rotate touring productions of national shows.

Local productions, including the Blue Man Group, are also available. There’s also the A.R.T. in Cambridge which offers shows (sometimes pre-Broadway) on a regular basis. There are also several live music venues.

In the summer, you’ll want to spend some time on the water. There are several different boat tours on the Boston Harbor that you can take, including whale watches and the thrilling Codzilla ride . Or take a trip to the Boston Harbor Islands , where you will get a national park experience right near the city.

Sports fans will definitely want to visit Fenway Park. If you can’t get tickets to see a game, take a tour of the park . This behind-the-scenes experience is perfect for fans of baseball.

You may also want to explore the more iconic areas of Boston, including Boston Common, the Boston Public Garden, and Faneuil Hall.

If you are planning to visit multiple attractions in Boston, it’s a great idea to purchase a Boston CityPASS. With the CityPASS, you’ll pay for one ticket and then get admission to multiple attractions. Here’s what’s included:

• The New England Aquarium
• The Boston Museum of Science
• Boston Harbor Cruises
• A choice of either the Franklin Park Zoo or the Harvard Museum of Natural History

Visit the CityPASS website to purchase .

See where to stay in Boston with kids here .

Salem, which is famous for the Salem witch trials from the 1600s, is located about 40 minutes outside of Boston on the North Shore and is one of the best day trips from Boston. This city offers waterfront views, shops, restaurants, and historic buildings among the Salem Witch attractions. If you’d like to learn more about the trials, the Salem Witch Museum has staged exhibits.

You’ll also find the acclaimed Peabody Essex Museum art museum right in the center of town, the House of the Seven Gables, the Nathaniel Hawthorne Birthplace, and more, just a short walk from the center.

As you’d imagine, Salem comes alive during the month of October for Halloween. While it’s a busy place to visit, there’s so much activity and so many great things to do.

Halloween lovers should definitely include a trip to Salem on their bucket list. Public transportation is offered, or arrive early for the best shot at a good parking spot. It gets extremely busy during the entire month of October. Here are some tours in Salem to book .

See hotels in Salem here .

I absolutely love Rockport, located on Cape Ann. Although I grew up in New England, I only started visiting Rockport a few years ago.

Since then, we’ve been a number of times, in summer and winter. It’s one of my favorite small towns. The entire Cape Ann area is a beautiful spot for a scenic drive, and it’s just a short drive from Boston.

If you visit the Rockport area, you’ll definitely want to go to Bearskin Neck. This neighborhood features shops and restaurants (lots and lots of seafood spots) in a quaint setting. You can park in one of the municipal lots or find on-street parking.

While you are there, you’ll definitely want to take a picture of Motif #1, which is rumored to be the most painted building. This iconic building is a replica of an old fishing shack.

Want to be on the water? You can rent kayaks in Rockport, or drive to neighboring Gloucester to take a whale watch or schooner tour. There are also several sandy beaches in the area worth visiting, including Wingaersheek Beach and Good Harbor Beach.

You can stay in Rockport or Gloucester, or make a day trip from another spot in Massachusetts.

See hotels in Rockport here .

Known as America’s Birthplace, Plymouth is a must-visit for anyone who wants to explore US colonial history. Plymouth is located about 75-90 minutes outside of Boston, towards Cape Cod. It’s a great place to stop either for a day trip as part of a road trip down to Cape Cod .

Once you are there, you’ll want to visit the Plimoth Patuxet Museum . This living history museum features several sections, including the Wampanoag Homesite and the 17th Century English village. It’s definitely worth a visit, especially with kids who are just learning about the colonization of America.

There are several different ticket options, which you can either purchase online or at Plimoth Patuxet. You can choose to visit just the plantation or add on visits to the Grist Mill and/or the waterfront exhibit. The Mayflower II was being restored in Mystic, CT, but is now back home in Plymouth.

Of course, if you are interested in history, you probably won’t want to miss Plymouth Rock. In reality, it’s a pretty small spot and isn’t very exciting. If you are already in the area, you may want to visit just to see it. But there are other better places to visit if you are short on time.

See hotels in Plymouth here .

I could dedicate entire articles to all of the kid-friendly things to do on Cape Cod . It’s truly a full vacation experience, especially in the summer.

Best visited in the summer (or early fall), Cape Cod is filled with quaint shops, clam shacks, and other restaurants, family activities, beaches, and great hotels. One popular attraction is the Cape Cod National Seashore , which is part of the National Park Service. The Cape Cod National Seashore includes beaches all the way to the tip of Cape Cod in Provincetown . The beaches in Cape Cod, are some of the best beaches on the East Coast.

When we visit Cape Cod for at least an overnight stay, we like visiting the Sea Crest Beach Hotel , which is located right on Old Silver Beach in Falmouth. It’s perfect for that quintessential family beach experience.

Another great resort option is Ocean Edge Resort , located in Brewster. Ocean Edge offers so many family activities, including special programming during school vacations and holidays. It has many different types of lodging, from rooms to villas.

In addition to beaches, you’ll also find museums such as the Whydah Whaling Museum and the Heritage Museum and Gardens in Sandwich. Mini golf is another popular summer activity, and make sure you get a famous lobster roll at some point on your vacation.

See hotels in Cape Cod here .

Take a ferry from the mainland (or fly in) for a getaway to Nantucket. This island is located about 30 miles from the mainland in Hyannis but feels almost like another country. It’s relatively small, about 47 miles total, but there’s lots to do.

Activities include nature walks, biking, beaches, and shopping. We love the Nantucket Whaling Museum, which offers a view of Nantucket’s history as a whaling city. It’s very busy in the summer, but late spring and early fall can also be a great time to visit.

Ferries do book up during the busy season, so make reservations in advance. Car ferries are available, but we prefer to stay right in town and walk around.

There are several different resort/hotel options on Nantucket, including the White Elephant right in town. See more hotel reviews here .

Martha’s Vineyard

Located about 4 miles from the coast of Cape Cod is Martha’s Vineyard. This island, larger than Nantucket, has several different towns to visit.

It has more activities than Nantucket and is a shorter ferry ride. While you are there, you can visit beaches, shop, eat delicious food, bike, take nature walks, and more.

There are several towns on the island, all with different things to offer. These include Edgartown and Oak Bluffs. Like Nantucket, you can bring your car on the island if you book a car ferry. Because Martha’s Vineyard is pretty big, I’d recommend bringing your car if you’d like to explore the island.

See hotels on Martha’s Vineyard here .

Springfield

Closer to Western Massachusetts is Springfield, Massachusetts. While Springfield isn’t a major tourist city in Massachusetts, it’s home to a few places you may want to check out, either for a day trip or on your drive out of Massachusetts.

In the fall, it hosts the Eastern States Exposition, which is one of the top ten fairs in the country. Taking place over 17 days in the late summer/early fall, the Big E (as it’s called) offers agriculture events, concerts, amusement rides, fun amusement-park food/snacks, and more. It’s fun to visit at least once with your family.

Springfield is also home to the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Dr. Seuss Museum. Basketball lovers should definitely visit the Hall of Fame at least once. It doesn’t take too long to tour, although there are events and activities that also take place there.

Six Flags Over New England is located in nearby Agawam and is open in season. Springfield is located about 2 hours from Boston and three hours and fifteen minutes from New York City.

See hotels in Springfield here .

The Berkshires

The mountainous region in Western Massachusetts is a popular summer vacation destination. You’ll find culture, farming, art, and outdoor activities. In the summer, visit the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s summer home, Tanglewood.

See hotels in the Berkshires here .

Fitchburg is home to the Boston-area Great Wolf Lodge resort. Guests of the resort can enjoy a number of fun kids’ activities including a huge indoor water park, an arcade, and a ropes course, among other activities. You’ll have to stay on the property to use the water park, so plan an overnight stay.

Guests can use the water park on both check-in day and check-out day. See our full Great Wolf Lodge New England Resort here.

Sturbridge MA, located west of Boston, features Old Sturbridge Village. It’s New England’s largest outdoor living history museum. You can learn all about life in the 19th century in New England from various historians throughout the exhibits. If you are headed to New York, Sturbridge is on the way.

Want to learn more about the American Revolution? Travel west of Boston to Concord Massachusetts, where you can visit Minute Man National Historical Park. There are various events offered throughout the year, but you can visit at any time to explore the park. Here are some tours of Concord you can book .

South of Boston, near the Rhode Island border, is Fall River. This waterfront city is home to Battleship Cove, an attraction that offers five historic naval ships, including the USS Massachusetts.

Outside of Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a relatively small state, and some of the best day trips can expand beyond Massachusetts. Options include Newport, Rhode Island, where you can explore the Newport Mansions and the beautiful Cliff Walk, as well as Salem New Hampshire, where you can visit the amusement park Canobie Lake Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

I would recommend staying in Boston. If you want to do a lot of things in one particular area, you may want to drive there and spend one or two nights.

Absolutely, you should have a car. If you are only visiting Boston, you may not need one. But if you are going beyond Boston, you’ll want a car.

Boston’s Logan International Airport is a major airport with many daily flights. It’s likely to be the most convenient airport.

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Taste of Massachusetts

Programming Your GPS For New England

• Family Fun and Date Nights

Fun and Free Day Trips in Massachusetts (With Direct Links!)

Fun and Free in Massachusetts

There may no such thing as a free lunch, but there are many great fun activities in Massachusetts that are free if you know where to look.  Don;t worry, this list isn’t filled with things like “take a drive”.

The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is Free on Wednesday Nights after 4pm!

Walk in the Footsteps of Dinosaurs! At the Dinosaur Footprint Reserve. 

FREE MOVIES – Boston led the way, and now many other cities and towns are sponsoring free Friday night movies out doors. Most lists are released in June each year.

Tour the Cape Cod Potato Chip Factory

Tour the USS Constitution.

Not only is the Commonwealth Museum free, but they are a great resources to other locations around thestate of a historical nature.

Highland Street Foundation sponsors Free Fun Fridays in the Summer opening up so many great location.

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Boston to Ban Influencers/Cameras in Restaurants in Advance of Restaurant Week.

Town Meeting Bistro: Inn at Hastings Park, Lexington

12+ Best Day Trips from Boston

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

What are the best day trips from Boston? Have I got the post for you! Boston is a brilliantly situated city, surrounded by seaside towns, cool beaches, and natural wonders. Whether you’re staying in downtown Boston or out in the suburbs, whether you’re traveling with kids or on your own, there’s so much to see throughout Massachusetts and beyond.

And if there’s anything I know like the back of my hand, it’s Boston day trips — the ones that are worth it (Newburyport! Providence! Portland!), and the ones that are bad ideas.

Planning your trip to Boston last minute?

Boston is very popular and books up quickly year-round. Book ahead to avoid disappointment!

🦞 Top Day Trips from Boston:

• Salem in a Day from Boston: Witches Tour (My top recommendation!)
• Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip from Boston (LONG trip, but great place)
• Boston to Newport, RI Day Trip (Elegant mansions!)

🛌  Top-Rated Hotels in Buenos Aires:

• The Liberty Hotel (Former jail and super trendy!)
• Boston Park Plaza (Super nice and not too $$)
• Oasis Guest House (Great budget option)

🚗 Renting a car in Boston? Find deals on car rental rates here.

I grew up 20 minutes outside Boston — Reading, specifically — and spent several years living in Boston as an adult. Today, I spend much of the year in the Boston area with my family. I feel very lucky to be from New England, which is filled with fabulous places to visit, from my beloved Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to Provincetown, the funky tip of Cape Cod.

While most of these Boston day trips require a car, several of them can be done with public transportation. Read on to see which day trips from Boston are best for you.

I would like to acknowledge and honor the Massa-adchu-es-et (Massachusett), Pawtucket, Pokanoket, Wôpanâak (Wampanoag), Nauset, Pentucket, Abenaki/Abénaquis, Wabanaki and Mohican people, the Indigenous stewards and traditional owners of the unceded land now known as the Greater Boston area.

This post was last updated in March 2024.

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from Boston

There are lots of day trips from Boston — but which ones are best? It all depends on what you’re looking for as a traveler.

My top three Boston day trips are the seaside town of Newburyport ; Provincetown , the funky tip of Cape Cod; and one of my favorite small cities, Portsmouth, New Hampshire .

North of Boston, I recommend Crane’s Beach in Ipswich . South of Boston, I recommend Duxbury Beach in Duxbury .

If you want to do a day trip from Boston on public transportation, I recommend the seaside town of Newburyport by train, the foodie city of Portland, Maine , by train, and the fun Cape Cod town of Provincetown by ferry.

Check out the deCordova Sculpture Park in Lincoln , spend the day in York, Maine , or have a fun beach day in Duxbury .

In winter many smaller towns in New England are virtually closed down. I would bundle up and visit another busy, active city like Portland, Maine or Providence, Rhode Island .

There’s a lot to consider, so here are my four big tips:

Tip #1: Don’t go overboard with history-oriented day trips if you’re not into history.

Yep, we’ve got a lot of wonderful historic sites in New England, and most travel writers tend to disproportionally play them up, but not everyone is up for doing historic day trip after historic day trip. I know I’m not.

Tip #2: Don’t just visit other cities.

Portland, Portsmouth, and Providence are great, but if you’re in Boston, you’re already in a city, and you shouldn’t miss out on the other side of New England: small towns and areas of natural beauty.

Tip #3: Keep your destinations within a two-hour drive.

If not, you’ll be spending a huge chunk of your day driving. Each destination I’m listing here is within a two-hour drive of Boston, with the occasional exception noted.

Tip #4: Make sure you have the right train station.

Boston has two main train stations: North Station and South Station. Trains to northern destinations depart from North Station; trains to southern destinations depart from South Station. There is also Back Bay Station, which is the first stop after South Station, so if you’re staying around Back Bay, you can just hop on the train there. Buses depart from South Station Bus Terminal.

Newburyport, Massachusetts

If you’re looking for quintessential New England seaside towns, Newburyport is one of my absolute favorites. This is small town New England at its best. Located north of Boston on a convenient commuter rail line, Newbury has a lovely waterfront, a beautiful downtown area with lots of fun shops, and easy access to the beach and wildlife at Plum Island.

Best things to do in Newburyport: This is a nice town for just walking around, and I encourage you to go in without too big of an agenda. Walk along the waterfront, browse the treasures at Oldies Marketplace , visit the Custom House Maritime Museum or Cushing House (the Museum of Old Newbury) , or even go on a food tour with Taste Newburyport .

Plum Island, a barrier island along the coast, is technically split between the towns of Newburyport, Newbury, Rowley, and Ipswich. You can stake out a nice spot on the beach — but Plum Island really excels at wildlife. Check out the bird life at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge , go kayaking, ride your bike along the trails, and enjoy the atmosphere.

There are plenty of dining options in Newburyport, but if you want a really local spot, head to The Grog . There’s nowhere else I go in town. This hole-in-the-wall pub has dollar oysters (you need to ask for them!), lots of interesting beers on tap, and delicious appetizers, including a nice chowder.

How to get from Boston to Newburyport: Newburyport is about a 45-minute drive from Boston. The train from Boston (North Station) to Newburyport takes one hour. If you’re heading to Plum Island, you’ll want to have a car.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

If you’re looking for a summertime day trip that combines a nice beach and an active town, both classic New England style and modern hotspot, Provincetown is the perfect choice! P-Town, a popular summer destination and legendary LGBTQ summer getaway, is at the very tip of Cape Cod.

Normally, I don’t recommend doing a day trip to Cape Cod during the summer because you’ll inevitably be sitting in hours of traffic at the Sagamore Bridge. But Provincetown is the one exception — because you take the ferry! The fast ferry runs direct from Boston to Provincetown from mid-May through mid-October, and it only takes 95 minutes each way. You can check the ferry schedule here.

In Provincetown, you can have a beach day or an exploration day — or a little bit of both!

Best things to do in Provincetown: Enjoy relaxing at Racepoint Beach, check out the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum (the only permanent exhibition that tells the story of the Pilgrims’ arrival from the point of view of the Wampanoag), explore the shops and galleries on Commercial Street, go wine tasting at Truro Vineyards (just south of Provincetown in North Truro), try beers at the Provincetown Brewing Company , see a Zoe Lewis show .

See the full list of things to do in Provincetown here .

If you’re going to eat, check out The Lobster Pot — check out their Portuguese soup with red beans, kale, linguica, and chorizo, featured by Anthony Bourdain on Parts Unknown . Southeast Massachusetts is home to a big Portuguese community, so take advantage!

How to get from Boston to Provincetown: The fast ferry takes 95 minutes and departs from the World Trade Center in Boston’s Seaport District. That’s the only way I’d recommend doing a day trip, as the drive to Provincetown takes 2.5 hours without factoring in the bottleneck at the Sagamore Bridge.

Want more? See my full Provincetown guide here!

Martha’s Vineyard

Is it possible to do a day trip from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard? Yes, it is, but it’s best done as a tour from Boston . Honestly, I highly recommend staying at least overnight, or for a few days, but if all you have is a day, you can absolutely make it happen.

I absolutely love Martha’s Vineyard and especially love exploring it by car. Just keep in mind that if you visit during the summer months, there can be a TON of traffic heading down the Cape. I would not do this from Friday through Sunday during the summer months.

Best things to do in Martha’s Vineyard: Start in the beautiful town of Oak Bluffs and visit all the colorful gingerbread houses, followed by a spin on the carousel. If you don’t have a car, I recommend renting a bike and riding down to Edgartown , which is SUCH a beautiful town. From Edgartown you can take the Chappy Ferry to Chappaquiddick Island , which is perfect to explore by bike.

And if you have time in the evening, I highly recommend checking out the stunning Aquinnah Cliffs and/or Moshup Beach, my favorite beach in Martha’s Vineyard, late in the afternoon, followed by sunset in the fishing village of Menemsha. And another lovely town to explore is Vineyard Haven , with lots of cute shops and the Black Dog.

How to get from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard: If you’re doing a day trip from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard, I strongly suggest you book this tour . With limited time, it will be far easier if you have professionals taking you directly.

Otherwise, you can drive to Woods Hole on Cape Cod (80 minutes, but longer during the summer), and take the Steamship Authority ferry to either Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard (one hour). This ferry allows cars.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is one of my favorite places to take people visiting New England for the first time. It simultaneously has the feeling of a small town and a medium-sized city, all perched on New Hampshire’s brief sliver of coastline, a stone’s throw from Maine. It has a funky, almost bohemian feel in some parts. Throw in fresh seafood and surprisingly few tourists and you’ve got a great spot for a day trip from Boston.

Portsmouth is on a lovely stretch of waterfront, just across the water from Kittery, Maine , so it pairs well with the south coast of Maine. I often pair a day trip to Portsmouth with a visit to The Maine Diner in nearby Wells, Maine, one of my favorite restaurants on the planet.

Best things to do in Portsmouth: Portsmouth, like Newburyport, is the kind of destination that lends itself to walking around and exploring. Browse the Portsmouth Book & Bar bookstore while enjoying a coffee or beer, explore the shops on Market Square, check out the Strawbery Banke Museum and its historic homes, take a self-guided tour of the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire , try some beers at the Portsmouth Brewery , and walk across the bridge into Maine (fun if you’ve never walked into another state before!).

As for where to eat, there are tons of spots! My favorite is The Friendly Toast , a joyful diner-like spot serving up creative dishes. River House is a great spot for dining right on the water. Portsmouth Brewery has a great menu of American comfort classics.

How to get from Boston to Portsmouth: Portsmouth is about an hourlong drive from Boston. There are also buses that take an hour and 20 minutes from South Station Bus Terminal.

See more on my sister site, New Hampshire Way:

• 27 Fun Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH
• Best Portsmouth NH Restaurants
• Best Bars in Portsmouth, NH
• Best Portsmouth, NH Hotels and B&Bs

South Coast of Maine

Ever wanted to visit Maine? You can absolutely do that on a day trip from Boston! Maine’s south coast is closer to Boston than you’d think. (So close, in fact, that some people refer to the south coast as “North Massachusetts.” Hehe.) Even so, you’ll see that Maine has a personality all its own, where life is slower, houses are brighter, and relationships are strong.

Ideally, I recommend visiting a few destinations in a single day trip. Morning in Kennebunkport, late lunch at the Maine Diner in Wells, and an afternoon and evening in Ogunquit would be lovely! Here are destinations in southern Maine worth visiting, from north to south:

Kennebunkport — Most famous for its longtime summer residents, George and Barbara Bush, Kennebunkport is one of the classic beauties of southern Maine. The town is beautiful on its own; it’s also home to Gooch’s Beach, a few nice museums, food tours , and trolley tours .

Wells — Home to a lovely stretch of beach and one of my favorite restaurants on the planet, The Maine Diner . They make the best seafood chowder IN THE WORLD, a fantastic lobster pie, a hot lobster roll with butter, blueberry pie, and a dish my friends and I swear we’re going to order someday, the Clam-o-Rama. Everything here is good, even if you don’t eat seafood.

Ogunquit — An artsy, colorful village and popular LGBTQ vacation spot, home to nice beaches and a rocky cove, Ogunquit is one of the most photogenic spots in a very photogenic state. Come here to enjoy the beach, hang out at the bars, explore the shops, or catch a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse. You can see my full guide to Ogunquit here.

York — Home to a large, calm beach, a picture-perfect lighthouse, a carnival-like fun park, and one of the coolest candy stores around, York makes an especially good choice for families with young kids. It’s good for a brief drop-in or a lazy day away. You can see my full guide on York, Maine here .

Kittery — At the southern edge of Maine, Kittery is most famous for its outlet shopping and pretty waterfront. It’s right next door to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, so these destinations pair well together. You can see my full guide to Kittery here.

Portland, Maine, is just north of Kennebunkport but it’s more of a standalone destination. See more on that below .

How to get from Boston to Maine: Kennebunkport is about a 90-minute drive from Boston; the other towns are closer. This is one Boston day trip I recommend doing by car as there are lots of small towns to see and the public transport connections aren’t the best.

Read More: My Guide to Ogunquit, Maine

Salem, Massachusetts

The city of witches. The city of history. The city that welcomed my 12-year-old great-grandfather when he arrived on a boat from Sicily at age 12, alone. Salem is a very popular day trip from Boston, especially for people looking for historic and/or educational day trips. And the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 have led to a community of witches, Wiccans, and those interested in the occult today, making it a strange blend with the maritime history!

I’ve written a full guide to visiting Salem if you’d like more in-depth information!

I think Salem is worth visiting if you’re really into history or you’re visiting during October, when Haunted Happenings brings a full month of celebrations. And Halloween night in Salem is a TON of fun! Beyond that, I would go with somewhere else on this list. On the North Shore, Newburyport and Rockport are much nicer. Even Marblehead, next door to Salem, is nicer.

Best Things to Do in Salem: Check out the Salem Witch Museum , visit the House of the Seven Gables , get a tarot or palm reading , visit the Peabody Essex Museum , go on a ghost tour .

How to get from Boston to Salem: If you want a guided tour, I highly recommend this Salem day trip from Boston from Walks . Salem is about 30 minutes from Boston, either by driving or by train from North Station. You can also get there by ferry on Boston Harbor Cruises. Check the ferry schedule here.

25 Spooky, Historic Things to Do in Salem, Massachusetts

Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts

Yes, the shot heard ’round the world was first fired from Lexington and Concord, starting the American Revolution. Massachusetts bleeds Revolutionary War history, and Lexington and Concord are great towns to explore that time period — as well as literary history. These towns were home to Louisa May Alcott, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and more.

If you’re into history of this time period — or craving a break from Boston’s crowds and skyscrapers — Lexington and Concord, two historic towns side by side, make a lovely Boston day trip.

Best things to do in Lexington and Concord: Check out Walden Pond , a natural escape where Thoreau wrote Walden ; dive into American Revolution history at Minuteman Historic Park ; see Louisa May Alcott’s home at Orchard House ; tour the Battle Green , where the shot heard ’round the world was fired; check out Lexington’s historic buildings like Buckman Tavern and Hancock-Clarke House.

For food, continue the historic theme at Concord’s Colonial Inn , which dates back to 1716 and has two restaurants serving classic Yankee dishes alongside more modern offerings.

How to get from Boston to Lexington: Lexington is about a 20-minute drive from Boston; there are public transportation connections that take closer to an hour. I recommend doing Lexington and Concord by car because the attractions are pretty spread out.

Rockport, Massachusetts

If you’re looking for a visually stunning small seaside town in Massachusetts, you’re going to love Rockport . This little town on Cape Ann, the “other” cape in northeast Massachusetts, makes a beautiful day trip. There’s a reason why North Shore residents treasure Rockport as a lovely weekend getaway.

My favorite fun fact about Rockport is that it was the filming location for Sandra Bullock and Betty White’s small Alaskan village in the movie The Proposal ! Seriously! It’s worth watching before you go to Rockport. Bearskin Neck, a tiny neighborhood of shops perched on the edge of town, could surprisingly look like a fishing village anywhere.

Best things to do in Rockport: Photograph all the fishing boats and painted cottages; check out the shops and art galleries on Bearskin Neck, sample all the fudges of Rockport Fudgery , relax on the beaches, take a walk along the rocky coastline at Halibut Point State Park , go on a Cape Ann whale watch . Also, don’t overlook Gloucester, the town next door and a short drive away!

As for where to eat in Rockport, the quintessential experience is getting a lobster roll at Roy Moore Lobster Co . and eat it while looking over the water. Alternatively, head to the Azorean Restaurant and Bar in nearby Gloucester to enjoy flavors of Portugal’s Atlantic archipelago.

How to get from Boston to Rockport: Rockport is about a 50-minute drive from Boston. You can also take the train from Boston (North Station) to Manchester (50 minutes) and from there take the connecting shuttle to Rockport (28 minutes).

Read More: 27 Fun Things To Do in Rockport, MA

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport may be another seaside New England town — but this one is a hell of a lot fancier. Newport is famous for its mansions, sailing, and history as one of the see-and-be-seen destinations among the American elite. During the Gilded Age, Newport became THE summer destination of America’s greatest thinkers, with a party scene to match.

But is a destination for famous rich people in the 1900s worth visiting today? Absolutely. Newport today has lots of historical sites to explore, but at its heart it’s a modern city. You come here for beaches and breweries, donut shops and Instagrammable cliff walks. And, of course, mansions that make you want to sing, “My God, this house is freakin’ sweet!”

Best things to do in Newport: Go on the Cliff Walk , a 3.5-mile journey along the coastline, passing some of the biggest mansions; visit The Breakers , the most insane mansion in all of Newport; chill out on the beaches; try beers at Newport Brewing Company or wines at Newport Vineyards ; explore the (much smaller!) colonial-era homes of The Point; visit the Newport Art Museum ; watch the sunset over Naragansett Bay.

For eating, Jo’s American Bistro does a fabulous lobster carbonara and features a $20.95 prix fixe menu Sunday to Thursday — great value if you’re doing a day trip from Boston during the week.

How to get from Boston to Newport: Newport is about a 1.5-hour drive from Boston. I highly recommend this day trip from Boston , which includes transportation and the mansions.

There is a bus departing South Station that takes 2.5 hours. You can also take the train from South Station to Providence, then a bus to Newport, but I think that’s too much of a hassle for a day trip.

White Mountains, New Hampshire

If you’re looking for a fall foliage day trip from Boston, the White Mountains are my top recommendation. This is one of the most gorgeous fall getaways in New England, but most outsiders haven’t even heard of it. But it also makes a great trip in late spring or summer, with tons of great outdoor activities.

(If you’re visiting the White Mountains for fall colors, keep in mind that the White Mountains are further north and at a higher altitude than Boston, so the leaves change earlier. Peak foliage tends to be the first week of October. See more on that in my Best Time to Visit Boston post.)

I grew up camping in the White Mountains every summer — specifically, at White Lake State Park in Tamworth. If you want to go chill out at a lake for a day, this is a great spot! It gets busy on summer weekends but it’s mostly quiet the rest of the time.

Note that the White Mountains are the only day trip I recommend that is more than two hours from Boston. If you’re up for a BIG day in beautiful nature, I think it’s worth it. If that’s a bit far for you for a day trip, consider staying overnight.

Best things to do in the White Mountains: Explore the cute downtown of North Conway ( Zebs General Store is a must), drive the Kancamagus Highway and explore the stops, hike through the Flume Gorge or Lost River Gorge , do a canopy tour at Alpine Adventures , take the Mount Washington Cog Railway up Mount Washington. Or just drive around, listening to music and admiring the scenery.

How to get from Boston to the White Mountains: North Conway is about a 2.5-hour drive from Boston; Lincoln is about a two-hour drive (and literally right on route 93). Though there are some buses to North Conway, this is one day trip that is best done by car.

• 30 Unforgettable Things to Do in the White Mountains
• 31 Fun Things to Do in North Conway, NH
• Hiking the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire
• Complete Guide to Driving the Kancamagus Highway, NH

Portland, Maine

It’s far more than just “the other Portland” — Portland, Maine, is one of the emerging foodie destinations of the United States. If you love cities but feel like Boston is a bit overwhelming and large, Portland might be more your speed! Especially if you love to taste the local libations. It’s the best of a small city and a fishing village, all rolled into one.

My friends and I decided to plan our friend’s bachelorette in Portland on a whim — none of us were too familiar with the city. It turned out to be a fabulous idea and became one of our favorite getaways. You can read about that trip here.

Best things to do in Portland, Maine: Go mead tasting at Maine Meadworks , spirit tasting at Maine Craft Distilling , and kombucha tasting at Urban Farm Fermentory ; check out the Portland Head Light lighthouse; explore the Old Port, downtown Portland’s quirky shops and boutiques; go on a lobstering tour by boat; visit the Portland Museum of Art ; go on a Portland food tour.

As for where to eat in Portland — well, you’ve got plenty of choices. I especially recommend Duckfat for sandwiches and fries and the Holy Donut for potato donuts (trust me, they’re great). If you’re looking for a truly special dinner, Fore Street serves hyper-local fine cuisine and serves especially good seafood. Book early.

How to get from Boston to Portland: Portland is a 1-hour and 45-minute drive from Boston. There are also trains (two hours, departing from North Station) and buses (2.5 hours, departing from South Station Bus Terminal).

Providence, Rhode Island

Yet another fabulous New England city in a smaller package — one with a distinctive artistic flair. Providence, home to the Rhode Island School of Design, is a great place to visit and an underrated gem of New England. Sure, it’s got history, pretty neighborhoods, interesting restaurants and some memorable celebrations. But it stays firmly under the radar — and likes it that way.

If you’re visiting Providence in the summer, see if you can time your visit to see Waterfire , a festival in downtown Providence where artistic fire installations erupt over the water and local businesses open for celebration. This takes place several times during the summer months, so double-check the datess before you go!

Best things to do in Providence: Visit the RISD Museum , the Museum of the Rhode Island School of Design; fall in love with the Providence Athenaeum , a stunning library straight out of Beauty and the Beast ; go on a Providence brewery crawl ( see a map of local breweries here ); go Italian food-hopping in the Federal Hill neighborhood; take a long walk through Roger Williams Park, the largest and best maintained park in town.

Food-wise, don’t forget to try Rhode Island-style calamari and coffee milk (yes, it’s like chocolate milk, but with coffee-flavored syrup), my two Rhode Island favorites! If you want to go fancy, I recommend Persimmon ; if you want to go funky, I recommend the Peruvian and Bolivian Los Andes ; if you want to go cheap and fun, go for Korean food at Den Den .

How to get from Boston to Providence: Providence is about an hour’s drive from Boston, but the train from South Station takes closer to 38 minutes. There are also hourlong buses from South Station Bus Terminal.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts*

Should you do a day trip from Boston to Cape Cod — or down the Cape, as we Bostonians say? I actually don’t recommend doing so during the summer months.

Cape Cod is a summer destination, for obvious reasons. It’s all about beaches and ice cream stands and bike rides. And it is best explored by car, giving you the freedom to explore small towns at your own pace.

But what other guides don’t tell you is that summer traffic bottlenecks up at the Sagamore Bridge, which could add hours to your trip in either direction. It’s one of Boston’s dirty secrets. Do you want to be stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic twice in a single day?

If you’re going to do a day trip to Cape Cod during the summer, I recommend the aforementioned day trip to Provincetown by boat. That’s a nice, traffic-free journey from Boston that won’t slice hours off your trip.

If you’re visiting more in the off-season — say, May through early June, or September or October — a Cape Cod day trip is much more doable, but know that it won’t be in full summer mode.

Best things to do in Cape Cod: The Cape is another place that lends itself to wandering and seeing what you find. Go find your perfect piece of beach on the Cape Cod National Seashore ; go on a catamaran sailing trip , rent a bike and head down the Cape Cod Rail Trail , catch a Cape Cod Baseball League game, see a movie at the Wellfleet Drive-In , check out the Sandwich Glass Museum .

Food-wise, why not try out some fabulous Wellfleet oysters right at the source? Check out The Impudent Oyster in Chatham, The Wicked Oyster in Wellfleet, and The Naked Oyster in Hyannis.

How to Get from Boston to Cape Cod: Hyannis is about a 1.5-hour drive from Boston if there’s no bridge traffic. There is also a two-hour, 20-minute train to Hyannis from South Station; it also stops at Buzzards Bay and Bourne.

Beach Day Trips From Boston

If you’re looking for a fun beach day trip, and somewhere nicer than Boston’s T-accessible beaches like Revere Beach or Carson Beach, consider taking a day trip to one of the NICE ones!

You don’t even have to go down the Cape — there are a lot of nice beaches on the North Shore (north of Boston) and the South Shore (south of Boston). Here are some worth considering:

Best Beaches North of Boston

Here they are, from south to north:

Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea — A gorgeous beach with “singing” sand that’s also accessible by train from Boston! No car necessary! (It’s about a half-mile walk from the station to the beach.)

Crane’s Beach in Ipswich — One of the most beloved beaches in New England, long and expansive with soft sand.

Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester — One of my high school favorites, with fabulously clear water (by New England standards, at least) at low tide and lots of big rocks to climb.

Salisbury Beach in Salisbury — A long, endless-seaming beach with big waves, right next to the New Hampshire border.

Best Beaches South of Boston

Here they are, north to south:

Nantasket Beach in Hull — A narrow beach on a wispy peninsula near Boston Harbor, a really good choice if you want to pair your beach day with a lively boardwalk-type atmosphere.

Duxbury Beach in Duxbury — One of the most solid all-around beach options in the area, and if you’re there, you might as well try their trademark oysters!

Horseneck Beach State Reservation in Westport — Buzzards Bay is one of the big Massachusetts secrets — it’s the Cape, but before the Sagamore Bridge, so no bottleneck to get there! Soft white sand greets you here.

Museum Day Trips From Boston

Yes, Boston has some of the best museums in the United States — but there are plenty of excellent museums outside the city, too! Here are some of the notable ones that I recommend doing as a day trip from Boston:

New England Whaling Museum in New Bedford, Massachusetts — This is a surprisingly lovely museum that isn’t so much about hunting whales as about the entire seafaring industry over several centuries. (And a spectacular wedding venue! I was a bridesmaid in a wedding here.)

Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts — One of my personal favorite museums in Massachusetts, this museum is a monument to the quintessential New England illustrations and journey to activism of Norman Rockwell.

Plimoth Patuxet Museums in Plymouth, Massachusetts — Formerly Plimouth Plantation, this historic site brings to life Plymouth Colony and the Indigenous peoples who called this area home. (Nearby Plymouth Rock is often cited as the most underwhelming site in Massachusetts, so be prepared for that.)

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts — If you’re a basketball fan in the least, come down to where basketball was invented! This museum has a massive collection of memorabilia.

deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln, Massachusetts — A really fun place to visit on a nice day, deCordova is the largest sculpture park in New England, featuring giant works of art over 30 acres.

Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, Massachusetts — A living museum that brings the late 1800s to life, costumed historians showing you what life was like more than 100 years ago.

Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts — Whether you do the full Salem day trip or not, PEM is one of the hidden gems on the North Shore, with a lovely collection of global art, as well as local treasures.

Shopping Day Trips from Boston

Are you here to do some serious shopping? You’ve got options. A lot of people from Massachusetts customarily head to New Hampshire to make big purchases, as there’s no sales tax there. The Mall of New Hampshire and the Mall in Rockingham Park are popular for this reason. (The people at the Apple Store in Nashua practically know me by name at this point.)

But there are some destinations near Boston that work as day trips or half-day trips on their own.

Wrentham Village Premium Outlets — The Wrentham Outlets usually get all the attention, thanks to their high-end shops. Here you have designer outlets like Armani, Gucci, and Ferragamo as well as more mainstream outlets like Gap, Express, and Adidas.

Kittery Outlets — In Maine’s southernmost town, next door to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this small outlets collection includes primarily mainstream shops like Nike, Ann Taylor, and Lululemon, with cool additions like Le Creuset. Not quite a standalone destination but it pairs well with a trip to Portsmouth or southern Maine.

Merrimack Premium Outlets — These outlets in Merrimack, New Hampshire, have the bonus of no sales tax! Mainstream stores include Bath and Body Works, J. Crew, Kate Spade, the Disney Store, and more.

Boston Day Trips to Avoid

Do not take a day trip to Acadia National Park in Maine. Not only is it WAY up north, way beyond a doable day trip, it also books out several months in advance. My suggestion? Plan a longer road trip up to Acadia and back.

Do not take a day trip to Burlington, Vermont. I love that little city, but it’s four hours away. If you go, go for the weekend, not a day trip.

Do not take a day trip to the Berkshires. Some people do it, but I think it’s a bit too far, with the POSSIBLE exception of Stockbridge , which is 2.5 hours by car and right off the Mass. Pike. Other destinations like North Adams, Williamstown, and Great Barrington are much further.

The Berkshires are wonderful — but it’s much better if you stay for a few days, or overnight. Be sure to check out my ultimate travel guide to the Berkshires , which will help you plan an awesome trip!

Do not plan a Connecticut casino day trip unless you know what you’re in for. Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods brand themselves as sexy resorts — but I find them depressing, smoky, and the furthest thing from sexy. If you’re expecting the party vibes of Las Vegas, you’ll be disappointed.

And be especially careful about planning trips in the winter. Some of these destinations get very quiet — especially the small seaside towns. And if it’s going to snow, don’t go anywhere ! You don’t want to be caught up in a nor’easter when you’re far from home.

Best of Boston:

• What NOT to Do in Boston
• Where to Stay in Boston: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels
• 40+ Fun Things to Do in Boston at Night
• Best Time to Visit Boston
• 24 Interesting Things to Do in Cambridge, Mass.
• 21 Best Museums in Boston

Cape Cod & the Islands:

• Which of the Towns of Cape Cod is Best for You?
• 24 Fab Things to Do in Cape Cod
• 22 Fabulous Things to Do in Provincetown, MA
• Which Of The 6 Martha’s Vineyard Towns Is Best For You?
• A Guide to Oak Bluffs, MA — Home of the Gingerbread Houses
• A Guide to Edgartown, MA — Prettiest Martha’s Vineyard Town
• A Guide to Vineyard Haven, MA — Authentic Town on Martha’s Vineyard

Western Massachusetts:

• 33 Best Things to Do in the Berkshires
• Best Towns in the Berkshires, Massachusetts
• 24 Cool Things to Do in Lenox, MA
• 12 Fun Things to Do in Stockbridge, MA

North Shore:

• 27 Fun Things to Do in Rockport, Mass.
• 25 Spooky, Haunted Things to Do in Salem, Mass.

Have you been to Boston? Do you have any day trip recommendations? Share away!

23 Best Day Trips From Boston You’ve Got To Take

Boston may be a thriving and vibrant city to live or visit, but a little escape is always lovely. Whether you want to visit within Massachusetts or head into Maine, Rhode Island, or Connecticut, you can see some of the best parts of New England on a day trip. 

Filled with history, culture, and glorious fun, see somewhere that has a completely different vibe than Boston. Whether you sit and relax on coastal beaches, walk around charming towns, pop into unique shops, or eat delicious seafood by the ocean, get away from Bostonian life and breathe in a new hot spot. 

Here are 23 amazing day trips from Boston that we know you’ll love.

MASSACHUSETTS 

PLIMOTH PATUXET MUSEUMS (FORMERLY PLIMOTH PLANTATION)

Take a trip through a living history museum and find out about one of America’s founding areas when you visit the Pilmoth Patuxet Museums in Plymouth, MA. Wander through authentic villages and understand the Plymouth Colony and this Indigenous homeland. 

With over 400 years of history to be told, understand the native people who previously lived here and how the Pilgrims settled. See inside the homes in the village, learn the secrets of Plimoth Grist Mill, and come aboard the Mayflower II.

This engaging and educational experience is not only memorable, but gives you an insight on how life once was for different communities. Get crafty, pick some of your own veggies, and thoroughly enjoy this immersive experience. 

Read More: 13 FUN THINGS TO DO IN PLYMOUTH MA YOU’LL LOVE

STELLWAGEN BANK NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

See one of the most spectacular creatures in the ocean through an amazing whale watching experience at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary . This sanctuary is just 25 miles east of Boston, and within that area you will see an abundance of wildlife that will completely transform you.

Watch as whales breach and feed in their pods and listen to the crew who describe each encounter with such purpose and excitement. See unique whale tales with individual markings, and pinpoint your favorite whale to make the experience more special. 

LEXINGTON AND CONCORD

Easily take a day trip to Lexington and Concord by car, bus, train, or bike and discover small towns filled with historic sites and Revolutionary War history. These Massachusetts towns were originally settled in the 17th century, and the battles of Lexington and Concord kicked off the Revolutionary War in 1775.

Better understand the works of legendary author Henry David Thoreau by visiting Walden Pond in Concord. After a visit here, you’ll understand the love of nature he showed in his writings.

Go biking along Minuteman Bikeway in Lexington and find the historic Battle Green, with plenty of original homes, and a visitor center that’s worth a visit. Don’t miss picking up a sweet dessert at Rancatore’s ice cream shop!

Pack your swimsuit and sunglasses and head to the Cape! From Memorial Day through Labor Day watch as Cape Cod comes alive with tourists and locals, ready for fun, laughter, and sun! Visit gorgeous little towns, support local artists, and dine at delicious restaurants with beautiful views. 

Have a picturesque beach day on Nauset Beach, where you can sit under the warm summer sun, listen to waves crash, play fun beach games, and grab lunch at one of the many delicious and tasty food trucks. If you’re around on a Monday night, make sure to check out the Nauset Beach Concert Series.

If you’re in the market for dramatic coastlines, head to Newcomb Hollow and stop at the famous Beachcomber for lunch and cocktails. Make your way into the small and lovely town of Wellfleet, and try a fresh and local Wellfleet oyster. Oh shucks, you’re going to have a blast in Cape Cod!

Read More: 28 THINGS TO DO IN CAPE COD YOU JUST CAN’T MISS

Get ready to be dazzled by the beauty, history, and prestige that is Cambridge . Home to one of the most esteemed universities in the United States, Harvard, there’s plenty to see here.

With a large population of students, this picturesque town has a youthful feel and a lively energy. Take a stroll through Harvard’s campus, admire the buildings, visit one or all of the Harvard Art Museums, or see the historic exhibits at the Harvard Museum of Natural History.

Grab a coffee and relax at Harvard Yard before continuing your tour to the historic center of Cambridge at Harvard Square. 

Pop into the Harvard Book Store for some memorable and classic books to remember your trip. Test out fresh and new restaurants, and admire the Charles River and city skyline, before getting a quick Uber or train ride back to Boston. 

With a laid back atmosphere and captivating views, Cape Ann is a wonderful retreat when you’re craving small crowds, fresh air, and a bit of peace and quiet. Cape Ann is made up of  four communities — Manchester-by-the-Sea, Rockport, Gloucester, and Essex — with each offering something different and appealing. 

Located just 30 miles north of Boston, this stretch of Massachusetts coastline is known for its beauty, delicious restaurants, classic New England-style homes, beaches, antique shops, and so much more.

Whether you’re looking for amazing shopping, fresh seafood, or days on the water — you’ll find it all on Cape Ann.

It’s all just a bunch of Hocus Pocus! –Max, Hocus Pocus

While Salem is a very popular destination for tourists around Halloween, it’s known for a lot more than just famous movies and old town charm. With witch trials dating back to the 1690’s, Salem has a fascinating history that makes it truly iconic. 

Walk the streets of Salem and visit the House of the Seven Gables, which was made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne, or see other historical sites around the town. With great restaurants, a spooky atmosphere, and plenty to uncover, Salem is definitely worth the trip.

Read More: 20 WITCHY THINGS TO DO IN SALEM MA YOU’LL LOVE

SALISBURY AND PLUM ISLAND

If you’re looking for pristine beaches, small crowds, and close proximity to Boston, Salisbury and Plum Island is your ideal destination. Salisbury is known as a family-friendly spot, and Plum Island’s barrier beach gives off the ultimate vacation vibes.

With a newly built boardwalk built on parts of Salisbury Beach , make time to visit the local shops and restaurants found along the boardwalk. If you’re day tripping with children, I recommend stopping into Joe’s Playland, where children will play classic arcade games, and the adults may want to play too!

Pack your coolers with sandwiches and cold drinks and spend the day on Plum Island, swimming in the ocean and seeing wild nature all around you. This place will have you wanting to stay longer than a day!

OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE

Take a trip into the past and find yourself at a recreated New England village when you visit Old Sturbridge Village . Get up close to some loving farm animals and see craftsmen at work in authentic buildings and structures at this village, located just over an hour away from Boston.

Ask questions of the docents dressed in traditional costumes, wander through original buildings, and discover more about New England living along the way. A visit here makes for one of the best day trips from Boston.

NORTHAMPTON

If you want to see rolling hills and lush forests in Massachusetts, set your sights on the Western Mass. The picturesque city of Northampton is a great place to visit.

Visit the local farmers market for fresh produce, grab a coffee, or visit one of the locally owned shops. Northampton is about a 2-hour drive from Boston, and this creative and artistic area is recognized widely as the Happy Valley. I suggest going to the Tunnel Bar while in town for cool cocktails!

MARTHA’S VINEYARD

If you’re in the mood for an island getaway, Martha’s Vineyard will do the trick. With more than 20 beaches, waterfront dining, and three gorgeous towns, discover why MV is loved so much on your day trip. 

Arrive on the Vineyard in style by ferry, and get your footing before starting your exploration. Rent bikes to see more of the island and make sure to pedal past the Gingerbread cottages in Oaks Bluff. Keep going to West Chop Light, where if you climb to the top, you will have outstanding views of the water.

Don’t forget to play in the water! From relaxing on the beach, to trying surfing and paddle boarding, Martha’s Vineyard has plenty of beach activities for everyone to enjoy. Go for a sail, stroll through the town looking into art galleries, enjoy shopping, and make sure to grab a scoop of delicious ice cream along the way. You’ll never regret a visit to this picturesque spot.

Read More: 36 PHENOMENAL THINGS TO DO IN MARTHA’S VINEYARD

STOCKBRIDGE

In Stockbridge, MA , you’ll find amazing views of the Berkshires and so much more.

With rolling hills and a sweet Main Street, it’s time to celebrate this town that encapsulates Western New England living. Breathe in the fresh air of the Berkshires.

Get ready to be amazed at the magnificent Norman Rockwell Museum! With original paintings and illustrations, you’ll be completely enthralled with art that tells a story. From his own work to his artist studio, get a feel for the world Rockwell was portraying, and see the impacts on the world today. 

PROVINCETOWN

Hit the high seas on your ferry ride to Provincetown . This LGBTQ+ town is vibrant, free, and can’t wait to see you! Surrounded by stunning coasts, choose either the ocean or bayside beaches for a fun day in the sun.

Stop by numerous galleries on Commercial Street, and make sure to reserve a table at the delicious Lobster Pot for a meal overlooking the harbor. Go whale watching, charter your own boat, or simply watch as seals cruise through the harbor looking for a little snack. 

With colorful, quirky, and out-there shops lining the roads, have a laugh in one of the friendliest towns in Massachusetts. Check out PTOWN for many different festivals, or simply fall in love with this creative and happy town. 

CASTLE ISLAND PARK

If you’re just in Boston for a few days and don’t have a car to go off exploring, it’s time to set your sights on Castle Island Park . Explore the Harbor Walk and enjoy amazing views in all directions. I highly suggest taking a guided tour to learn a bit more about this interesting spot. 

Climb Fort Independence and understand the role it played in the War of 1812 and how its location saved the day. From playing games in the park to watching the planes land at Boston Logan Airport, Castle Island is a great place to visit, and makes for an easy day trip from Boston.

The town of Essex is rich in heritage and has strong roots to ship building, making this beautiful coastal town an ideal day trip escape from Boston. Listen to waves rocking the boats in the harbor and try wine tasting with a bit of Massachusetts flair. 

See Essex from the water when you book a boat tour through Essex River Cruises and Charters, where you’ll find marshes, tall grasses, and wildlife all around you. If you are interested in seeing more wildlife while in Essex, I recommend popping over to Crane Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll see many bird species and little critters. 

With small museums and galleries placed around town, take your time meandering through collections and exhibits that have a strong focus on ships and American folk art.

MAINE 

OGUNQUIT 

Head to the quiet beach town of Ogunquit, Maine , where you’ll find stunning beaches, and a serene atmosphere that will send you into total relaxation mode. Walk the sandy shores and set yourself up for a day under a beach umbrella, jumping in the waves, and soaking up the sun!

With a strong focus on the arts, Ogunquit’s art community works with local artists throughout town in galleries and at the Ogunquit Museum of American Art. Watch a show at the Playhouse Summer Theater and pop in local shops for a lovely souvenir.

Read More: 11 REALLY AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN OGUNQUIT MAINE

PORTLAND ME

Portland, Maine has some real treats up its sleeve! Enjoy a classic New England experience with a lobster bake, sit by the rocky cliffs with a lobster roll in hand, or try something diverse at one of its Mediterranean or Asian restaurants. 

With its creative arts district, which is home to the Portland Museum of Art and many small galleries, it’s time to marvel at art and browse. Go for late night walks along the old ports and see locals enjoy life in Portland. 

Just a 2 hour drive from Boston, this easy and fun adventure will let you see another vibrant New England city. Wander along the cobblestone streets and stop by a brewery or beer garden for afternoon fun! 

Read More: 20 OUTSTANDING THINGS TO DO IN PORTLAND MAINE

KENNEBUNKPORT

Let loose in this lovely seaside town in Maine. From leisurely walks along Gooch’s Beach to swimming in the cool ocean, Kennebunkport is the perfect daytime getaway. From whale watching adventures to simply riding intown trolleys, this New England town is spectacular. 

You can’t go to Maine and not have lobster, and Kennebunkport has some of the best lobster rolls around! From taking a food tour, to simply sitting outside and enjoying a rich and buttery lobster roll, get ready to eat some delicious food. 

You’ll find plenty to do in this charming coastal town — watch comedy shows, try flights of beer at cool breweries, or make a quick visit to Goat Island Lighthouse. Whether you’re traveling solo or planning a day trip with friends, Kennebunkport should be your next spot! 

CONNECTICUT 

Walk through the seaport village of Mystic, CT and prepare to witness authentic boats and small town shops that will have you jumping for joy. Head into the Seaport Museum and see maritime history through the years with ships, folk art, and artifacts on display. 

See creatures of the sea at the Mystic Aquarium, where you’ll find penguins, seals, and colorful fish. Go shopping at local shops, and dine at the Shipwrights Daughter for a classic Connecticut meal and experience. 

Read More: 29 GREAT THINGS TO DO IN MYSTIC CT YOU CAN’T MISS

Book lovers will love taking a day trip to the Connecticut city of Hartford , where they can tour the homes of Mark Twain and other great novelists too. Wander through the rooms of Mark Twain’s home, and see the home Twain lived in with his family from 1874 to 1891. Twain wrote some of his most important works during the years he lived there.

The kids will love a visit to the Connecticut Science Center, where they can have a hands-on science experience and take part in DIY activities. Tour the Connecticut State Building and get a full history of the state and city. Catch the first bloom at Elizabeth Park Rose Garden or enjoy a picnic at Riverside Park. Hartford is a great town to visit.

Read More: 18 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HARTFORD CT YOU CAN’T MISS

RHODE ISLAND

Providence, Rhode Island is a city with a huge culinary scene. Enjoy fresh seafood, visit the Italian neighborhood for pastas you’ll adore, and treat yourself to pastries and coffee at the local shops.

See the animals at Roger Williams Zoo, catch the WaterFire Festival at Waterplace Park and Riverwalk, or tour the museum at the Rhode Island School of Design. Tie up your laces for a “Mile of History,” and see why this creative city is perfect for a day trip from Boston.

Read More: 13 THINGS TO DO IN PROVIDENCE RI YOU’LL LOVE

While most people visit Newport for its fabulous beaches, there is so much more to see and explore. Go for a 3.5-mile-long trek along the Cliff Walk, where you’ll find some of the world’s most renowned mansions and see some extraordinary views of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Take a guided tour of two of the exquisite Gilded Age Mansions. Head into the Breakers to see how some of the wealthiest families in America once lived.

Dine on the water with fresh seafood and watch as boats cruise by at Bowen’s Wharf. With a joyous and upbeat atmosphere, walk around the wharf, stopping into shops and enjoying delicious eateries along the way.

Read More: 13 THINGS TO DO IN NEWPORT RI EVERYONE WILL LOVE

The town of Bristol, RI will be a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of Boston. This easygoing and scenic town is known as one of America’s most patriotic towns, so plan a visit here around the 4th of July for a celebration you won’t forget.

Go for a tour at Blithewood Mansion, where you’ll find natural beauty in the gardens and endless history within the walls of this intriguing home. Bring or rent bikes for a leisurely pedal on the East Bay Bike Path, before taking a break at Beehive Cafe with an iced coffee and treat. 

With loads of community spirit and friendly locals, Bristol is ideal for those wanting a quick escape to recharge before heading back to the city.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO MASSACHUSETTS

• YOUR MASSACHUSETTS VACATION
• NANTUCKET:  20 Fun Things To Do In Nantucket You Can’t Miss
• MARTHA’S VINEYARD:  36 Phenomenal Things To Do In Martha’s Vineyard
• SALEM:  20 Witchy Things To Do In Salem MA You’ll Love
• CAPE COD:  28 Things To Do In Cape Cod You Just Can’t Miss

WHERE TO STAY IN BOSTON

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Fun Things to do in Central Mass

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10 summer day trips in massachusetts.

May 30, 2014 · by: Crystal 88 Comments

Looking for a great day trip this summer?

Here is a list of 10 fun places to visit throughout massachusetts.

1. Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort located in Hancock, Ma. Jiminy Peak is the largest ski and snowboard resort in southern New England, summer home to the  Mountain Adventure Park and the only mountain resort in North America to generate its own energy using alternative wind power. Jiminy Peak’s Mountain Adventure Park has something for everyone. Jiminy’s Mountain Coaster was the first of it’s kind on the East Coast. The coaster is thousands of feet of twisting turning fun through the woods with speeds of up to 23 mph. But don’t worry you control your speed. You can also try the Alpine Slide, Soaring Eagle, Giant Swing, take a Scenic Chairlift Ride, reach new heights on the Rock Climbing Wall, bounce on the Euro Bungy Trampoline, jump in the bounce houses, take a climb through the Kid Climb ropes course, or go for a hike.

The Aerial Adventure Park is an aerial forest ropes course consisting of 6 individual, elevated courses for different ability levels consisting of over 70 elements that will challenge you to new heights! Each course varies in terms of elevation and the strenuousness of the challenges. Elements include rope bridges, ladders, cargo nets, zip lines and more. All courses are self guided and every person is snapped into a guide line.

Jiminy Peak Aerial Adventure Park {photo courtesy of jiminypeak.com}

2. Look Memorial Park located in Florence, Ma. Open Saturdays and Sundays starting in April and 7 Days per week Memorial Day – Labor Day, Look Memorial Park if full of family fun! Ride the  Steamer Train , Bumper Boats or Pedal Boats . Play a round on our 18-hole Mini-Golf course. Grab a terrific hamburger or hot dog at the Park Grill & Sweet Store , or pack a picnic lunch and just spend the day in a great family environment. Take a stroll though the 1.2 mile  Walking Path , visit the animals at the Christenson Zoo , or splash in the 5,000 sq. foot Spray Park . Look Park also offers unlimited ride packages that allow access to all of their wonderful attractions all day long for one low fee! Remember, not only are you enjoying affordable family fun, you are also supporting a local non-profit organization. Be sure to check out their Special Events page for upcoming events and performances.

Look Park Stream Train {photo courtesy Lookpark.org}

3. Edaville USA located in Carver, Ma. Have a train lover in your family? Edaville USA was founded over 65 years ago on a 1,800 acre cranberry farm. With lots of exciting events throughout the year such as Day out with Thomas, Red, White and Blue Days, Dinoland, Pumpkins Aglow, The Polar Express and much more; Edaville is the perfect place to day trip to anytime of the year. You can purchases season passes and tickets one the Special Events page .

Day Out with Thomas {photo courtesy of edaville.com}

4. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum located in Boston, MA. The Boston Tea Party Museum is a new kind of museum experience where you’ll not only view artifacts of historical importance, you’ll also have a all-encompassing, multi-sensory experience. You will be transported back in time and take part in an event that forever changed the course of American history. Live actors, high-tech interactive exhibits and authentically restored tea ships are just a taste of your experience! Your tour will last approximately 1 hour as you visit a variety of exhibits. Click here for special offers and discounts!

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum {photo courtesy of bosotnteapartyship.com}

5. Old Sturbridge Village located in Sturbridge, Ma. Old Sturbridge Village is a living, breathing, vibrant village depicting life in New England from 1790-1840. Visitors can meet historians in costume and tour 40 antique buildings, including a country store, school, and water-powered mills. Spend the day viewing the collection of more than 50,000 artifacts made or used in early New England includes quilts, clocks, pottery, and  fine furniture. Also learn where food comes from at Freeman Farm , the importance of the harvest was to early New England farmers – and how much work was involved in preserving food to last through the winter. Visitors can meet heritage breed cattle, oxen, sheep, chickens, and pigs, and see the seasonal rhythms of work on a 19th-century farm! Visit the special event page here.

Old Sturbridge Village {photo courtesy of osv.org}

6. The Springfield Museums located in Springfield, Ma. The Springfield Museums , located in the heart of downtown Springfield, Massachusetts, is comprised of five world-class museums; the Michele & Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts . , the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum , the Springfield Science Museum , the Connecticut Valley Historical Museum and the Museum of Springfield History . The Museums Association is proud to be home to the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden , a series of full–scale bronze sculptures of Dr. Seuss’s whimsical creations, honoring the birthplace of Theodor Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss. Each Museum is different and there is plenty to see, experience, and appreciate all in one day! Along with our permanent collections and galleries, we host major traveling art, history and science exhibitions. You’ll always find something new! Five museums. One admission price . Endless fun! Visit the calendar of events here .

Dr. Seuss Museum {photo courtesy of springfiledmuseums.org}

7. Purgatory Chasm State Reservation located in Sutton, Ma. A unique natural landmark, Purgatory Chasm runs for a quarter of a mile between granite walls rising as high as 70 feet. Popular with picnickers and rock-climbers alike, the Chasm is believed to have its origin in the sudden release of dammed-up glacial meltwater near the end of the last Ice Age, approximately 14,000 years ago. Trails lead to a wide variety of rock formations, with such romantic names as The Corn Crib, The Coffin, The Pulpit, Lovers’ Leap and Fat Man’s Misery. An adventurous playground, equipped with a play structure, swings and a merry-go-round, is now located near the visitor center. Please be aware chasm rocks and slopes are slippery and deceiving. Wear rubber soled shoes or hiking boots.  Please stay away from the edges of the chasm.  It is not recommended to hike the chasm after or during inclement weather due to extremely slippery rocks. Well behaved dogs are welcome, but must be leashed at all times. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch! Purgatory Chasm is located at 198 Purgatory Rd., Sutton, Ma 01590. Daily Parking Fee: $5 MA Vehicle, $6 non-MA Vehicle.

Purgatory Chasm

8. Heritage Museum and Gardens located in Sandwich, Ma. Heritage Museums & Gardens is comprised of three galleries and expansive gardens located in historic Sandwich, Massachusetts. It includes galleries for American Folk Art, a vintage carousel , automobiles and traveling exhibitions . The gardens feature a collection of thousands of rhododendrons, including a collection of the world-renowned Dexter variety. Their typical bloom time is from Memorial Day Weekend to mid-June. Other horticultural areas of interest include: holly, daylily, herb, hosta, and heather gardens, as well as more than a thousand varieties of trees, shrubs and flowers. The grounds also include the Old East Mill, a windmill built in Orleans, Massachusetts in 1800, and extensively restored in 1999-2000. In 2002, a labyrinth was also added to the grounds, designed by Marty Cain, one of the best-known labyrinth designers in North America. Also located on the grounds is the Hart Family Maze Garden and the Cape Cod Hydrangea Garden.

Heritage Garden {photo courtesy of heritagemuseumsandgardens.org}

9. Yankee Candle Village located in  South Deerfield, Ma. One of New England’s most popular destinations! Yankee Candle Village offers a unique shopping, entertainment and dining experience. Stroll through the Bavarian Christmas Village, the Nutcracker Castle, and our home store. Enjoy fabulous candles, home decor and holiday shopping. Savor freshly-made fudge and other sweet treats in our fudge shop. Dip your own candles and watch history brought to life in our candlemaking museum. Visit the calendar of events here.

Yankee Candle Village {photo courtesy of deerfielfattractions.com}

10.  Breezy Picnic Grounds & Waterslides in Douglas, Ma. A family-owned recreational facility nestled in the heart of the Blackstone Valley National Heritage Corridor in south central Massachusetts.  Breezy has been catering to families from Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts since 1953. Children, as well as their parents and grandparents, can have a full day of family fun at Breezy. Just pack a lunch for a picnic … or visit our snack bar. Everyone will enjoy swimming in crystal-clear Whitins Reservoir, riding our waterslides (with unlimited rides!) , and relaxing in our clean, well-groomed grounds. With t hree 300′ waterslides with unlimited rides, s pacious immaculately maintained picnic grounds, l arge tables by the water and throughout the grounds, l ake swimming with sandy areas for the kids, a s nack bar, game room, certified lifeguards at the beach and slides, clean restrooms and changing facilities, and ample free parking, you will be sure to have a great day at Breezy Picnic Grounds & Waterslides .

Water Slides {photo courtesy of breezysummer.com}

What’s on your summer bucket list?      

Share this!

May 31, 2014 at 11:20 am

Surprised that SOUTHWICK ZOO in Mendon wasn’t on the list. Best zoo in Ma.!

May 31, 2014 at 11:27 am

It’s on my list for another post. We LOVE Southwick Zoo!!

June 3, 2014 at 7:26 pm

Never heard of that zoo…I ‘ll have to check it out….Thanks

May 31, 2014 at 1:34 pm

Davis Farmland is also a nice kid friendly place to go with the whole family…

May 31, 2014 at 3:46 pm

It sure is! We will be visiting this summer 🙂

May 22, 2015 at 2:51 am

March 21, 2015 at 10:54 am

Ya but it will cost an arm and a leg

April 21, 2016 at 1:41 pm

Check with your public library. They may have a discount pass.

March 29, 2015 at 7:49 pm

Where is it?

March 30, 2015 at 4:24 pm

https://www.davisfarmland.com/dffa_wp/index.php

May 31, 2014 at 1:51 pm

Jiminy Peak is not the only ski resort in N. America that uses alternative energy. In fact it’s not even fully powered by it. Drive 30 mintues east to Berkshire East for the ONLY 100 percently powered resort in North America. Not only is it the most challenging ski area in Southern New England, it also has the longest and highest zip lines, mountain biking and soon a year round mountain coster.

May 31, 2014 at 3:47 pm

I appreciate the update 🙂

April 24, 2019 at 12:34 pm

Crystal, Riverbend Farm & Visitor Center in Uxbridge is Free, plus has free parking, a 2 store barn to tour and learn about the Blackstone Valley, pet friendly, walking trail along the Blackstone River. Great for families!

May 31, 2014 at 4:49 pm

Roll On America Family Fun Center Lancaster, Mass. Rollerskating, Arcade, Fun and Games Theater, Pizza Restaurant, Laser Tag, bounce house, Reward Zone with lots of prizes to win.

March 29, 2015 at 7:50 pm

Can you give me the address and cost? Website?

March 30, 2015 at 8:16 am

Deb, Each of the 10 locations has the towns posted and you can click on the links within the descriptions for admission price, etc.

March 30, 2015 at 4:23 pm

http://rollonamerica.com

May 31, 2014 at 5:02 pm

Love all these places have gone and visited all…Very much worth the visit …..

May 31, 2014 at 6:53 pm

Battleship Cove Fall river Ma

June 1, 2014 at 8:31 am

Derry, nh splashpad

June 1, 2014 at 9:14 am

Buttonwood Park, New Bedford, MA

June 1, 2014 at 9:15 am

Mayflower and Plymouth Plantation, Plymouth, MA

June 1, 2014 at 10:38 am

Why is Mountain Park mentioned and the slide? I thought those places were closed.

June 1, 2014 at 11:08 am

According the Jiminy Peak website they are open. Here is the link: http://www.jiminypeak.com/mountain-adventure-park

June 7, 2014 at 7:05 pm

I think you are thinking of mt park in Holyoke. That is closed. Jiminey peak mountain adventure park is in Hancock or pittsfield ma area in the berkshires.

June 21, 2014 at 11:42 pm

Mountain Park in Holyoke Mass has been closed since 1987. Jiminy Peak is a totally different park.

June 1, 2014 at 10:46 am

We went to End Of The World Park yesterday for the fist time yesterday. What a great family day of hiking and rock climbing for my 6 yr. old on the water.

June 2, 2014 at 7:02 am

Awesome list!! Many of these I have never heard of. Thank you!!

June 2, 2014 at 8:18 am

Nantasket Beach – Hull,Mass. x14 rt3s, follow signs ,

June 2, 2014 at 8:33 am

@Stacy, you’re thinking of Mountain Park and Mt. Tom in Holyoke.

June 2, 2014 at 2:27 pm

Great list. I would add the Ecotarium in Worcerster as well, though.

June 2, 2014 at 7:45 pm

Castle Island in South Boston. FREE TOURS of the Fort on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 to 3:30 P.M. Sullivans Food Stand at the foot of the Fort has the best Hot Dogs, Hamburgers and Fish at very good prices. The beach is right there as well as a Play Ground in the form of the Fort. On July 4th, the Constitution sails out to the Fort and does a 21 Gun Salute right outside the fort and then sails back to Charlestown. Great time that does not cost anything other than food. July 4th is a very busy day so if you want to go, go early to get a parking space or you will have a long walk.

June 2, 2014 at 7:56 pm

Thank for all the great info!

June 2, 2014 at 8:37 pm

Good job on the list. Don’t worry about the negative comments or questions on your selections. It’s not possible to list all of the great places to visit.

June 2, 2014 at 9:34 pm

Thanks Matt 🙂

March 26, 2015 at 1:14 am

My favorite place to walk by the water! Mary

March 26, 2015 at 1:16 am

That walk is by Castle Island Mary

June 2, 2014 at 10:28 pm

kimballs farm has mini golf, bumper boats, driving range, animals, home made ice cream, a hot air balloon ride and im sure im missing something

June 3, 2014 at 1:32 pm

Any ideas for Adult day trips?

June 3, 2014 at 2:05 pm

I will start working on a list 🙂

June 4, 2014 at 8:06 am

That will be great to have adult day trips and thanks for sharing this !

June 4, 2014 at 9:05 am

Some other favorites, Capron park and zoo, WWI park and zoo, Children’s Museum in Eastern, Wards Farm in Sharon. All fun for toddlers.

June 9, 2014 at 12:31 pm

Boston is not far from us.. thanks for the list!! we are looking for summer ideas..

June 9, 2014 at 12:58 pm

It does seem like a lot of fun. I think the family would love it.

June 9, 2014 at 1:00 pm

Central Mass is really not that far from where we live and this is a great list of day/weekend trips! I know a few kiddos that would love Edaville!

June 9, 2014 at 2:22 pm

All of these look like such great places to visit! I would especially love to go to the Yankee Candlemaking Museum. Museums and Yankee candles are two of my favorite things.

June 9, 2014 at 2:30 pm

I love Massachusetts! It’s so much fun. Love this list.

June 9, 2014 at 9:47 pm

Great list! I am in southern NH,(and grew up in MA) so I have been to some of these great places. There are definitely a few I haven’t and want to check out!

June 10, 2014 at 12:35 am

I’ve found the Cape Cod Canal bikeways to be a refreshing and economic day trip whether you like fishing, boating, walking, riding, swimming or roller blading. Miles and miles of clean beautiful paved pathways to marvel at the expansive scenery and wide variety of ships that transit the canal. A beach at one end and the Massachusetts Maritime Academy on the other. You can even take a train ride over the elevator bridge that rises to allow huge cargo and tanker ships by and lowers for the Cape Cod railway. Quality seafood at restaurants in Bourne or Kick back and picnic while watching fishing boats, million dollar yachts, tankers, cargo ships and personal watercraft either coast with the current or struggle into it depending on which way the water is going depending on the rising or ebbing tide. Its my favorite thing to do besides going all the way out to the outer Cape.

June 10, 2014 at 1:15 am

I grew up 15 minutes from Plymouth Rock in Duxbury, MA on the coast. I’ve been to a bunch of the places you mentioned. There’s also Harvard yard, Cape Cod and Heritage Trails retracing historical moments of the USA. I haven’t been back since 2003 for a wedding! Blessings to you~

June 10, 2014 at 3:32 am

Wow this looks so fun. That Aerial Adventure Park looks pretty awesome.

June 10, 2014 at 7:32 pm

Please don’t forget your local libraries. They bring in different types of entertainment, that is usually free, for the children.

June 14, 2014 at 10:56 am

George ‘ s island and Fort Warren

March 29, 2015 at 7:54 pm

March 30, 2015 at 4:25 pm

http://www.bostonharborislands.org/georges

June 27, 2014 at 1:52 pm

This is a great list of so many of MA’s hidden gems! It’s not a huge state, so it’s worth exploring it from end to end if you can!

June 27, 2014 at 6:59 pm

Thanks Ellen!

March 21, 2015 at 7:44 am

Edaville RR is really run down. Go to Story Land in NH instead-much cleaner and better managed.

March 21, 2015 at 5:27 pm

They have made lots of improvements since last year and are adding tons of new attractions in the next few years!

August 28, 2016 at 2:11 am

not true! Edaville is awesome! great way to spend the whole day! clean, great staff, i take my granddaughter twice a year!

March 21, 2015 at 10:36 am

I am rather surprised there is no mention of the caves at Purgatory Chasms. Some go in. I found one in my HS days that was a really tight squeeze, but once you got in there it opened up into a big cave that you could sit down in and just relax. The caves were the best part of the chasm in my opinion.

March 22, 2015 at 3:21 pm

west End Creamery and farm in Whitinsville is a great place with a beautiful 18 hole mini golf, ice cream, farm animals, jumping pillows, and more. very family friendly and affordable. Corn maze and pumpkins in the fall,

March 22, 2015 at 4:14 pm

I really appreciate the list. It also generated a lot of other great suggestions for some other local sites to see. So great job all around. I went to a lot of these places myself growing up. Now that you have reminded me about what’s out there I can take my grandchildren to see some of the same places that thrilled me along with some new ones. I’m really looking forward to trying Jiminy Peak this year. Ignore any negative comments, some people live to spoil the goodness of others!

March 22, 2015 at 8:04 pm

March 23, 2015 at 9:39 pm

You also forgot to mention Magical Wings. A butterfly conservatory right down the road from Yankee Candle. I go there twice a year with my daughter who is 16. We have been going there since she was 6. Love it.

March 25, 2015 at 9:45 am

April 13, 2015 at 4:43 pm

Thanks for including so many Pioneer Valley things to do, like Deerfield’s Magic Wings, Yankee Candle and one you might have forgot, Historic Deerfield. Find them all at our local tourism website, http://www.deerfieldattractions.com thanks nice job Crystal!

April 13, 2015 at 7:08 pm

Thanks Max!

April 17, 2015 at 1:12 am

For anyone wanting to head up to the northeast corner of MA, make sure to stop by Amesbury! This historic city has great museums, parks, shops, restaurants, and a wonderful community!

April 17, 2015 at 11:52 am

Purgatory Chasms is one of my families favorite places. We moved tonNC 9years ago but we go to purgatory Chasms when we come back to visit.

May 20, 2015 at 7:00 pm

How about Tower Hill Botanic Garden in Boylston? It’s a great place for families and is gorgeous year-round. Check it out online @ http://www.towerhillbg.org .

May 21, 2015 at 12:37 am

Edaville ? Really ? I hope no one travels across the state just for that , if you’re in the area I guess but not worth a whole day of travel .

May 24, 2015 at 8:39 pm

My family and I love a trip to Kaleidoscope: You Catch It! You catch it! They cook it! Awesome sauce!

May 24, 2015 at 8:56 pm

Where is it located?

June 5, 2015 at 12:45 pm

Nice place to visit for local fun and information The Traiside Museam on the Stoughton ,Milton town line on Rt 138 small museum geared towards wildlife in the Blue Hills past and present admission used to be a donation have not been in a while

June 5, 2015 at 12:56 pm

Thanks for the suggestion! I hadn’t heard of this museum before.

July 2, 2015 at 8:41 am

What about Ramblewild?

Ramblewild 110 Brodie Mountain Road Lanesboro, MA 01237

Located in Berkshire County, Massachusetts, Ramblewild is Feronia Forests’ first tree-to-tree adventure destination. Aerial parks are a new outdoor activity in and amongst the trees that offer excitement, challenge, and personal growth for families and adventurists of all kinds.

Feronia works with experienced foresters and ecosystem specialists to take an innovative approach to forestry. They strategically postpone the harvesting of trees to maximize investment returns. While the trees grow, they creatively develop sustainable, revenue-generating offerings within and from the forests: recreational destinations such as Ramblewild; the harvesting of maple sap for the production of maple water (Vertical Water) and maple syrup (Mission: Maple); harvesting foods and medicinal plants that grow naturally in the forest; and hosting renewable energy facilities. Their goal is to nurture the greatest long-term value of each forest to the local communities, the environment and their investors. They call this Sustainable Full Forestry™.

At Ramblewild, the focal point is a central wooden platform about ten feet above ground from which eight aerial obstacle courses originate, meandering from tree to tree at various heights through the forest. Each course consists of 15-17 elements (high wires, zip lines, balancing logs, rope ladders, cargo nets, suspended bridges, etc.) that meander through a pristine hemlock forest. Our tree-to-tree challenge courses are designed to have a profound impact on visitors’ self-confidence and happiness.

Engagement with the environment is the first step for people to begin caring about and supporting it: our mission is to bring people back to the forest and to develop an understanding, appreciation and respect for nature in everyone.

July 2, 2015 at 1:01 pm

Heather, I will be doing a full review post about Ramblewild after we come for a visit!

July 12, 2015 at 9:04 am

Heritage Gardens is so nice! I think my boys would love to do the Aerial Adventure Park! It looks awesome.

July 12, 2015 at 10:01 am

This is going to come in handy… I am going to Boston in just a week!! BOSOX all the way!!

July 12, 2015 at 12:03 pm

what great ideas so very fun

July 12, 2015 at 9:07 pm

I would love to visit there during the summer! My kids would especially like to ride the train and have a look at the Dr. Seuss museum!

August 21, 2015 at 11:28 am

Western, MA also has Bousquet Adventure Park in Pittsfield, MA. It has fun for all.

August 21, 2015 at 11:45 am

I will have to check it out! Thanks.

April 21, 2016 at 7:43 am

I am surprised the list is so relevant to me. Thanks for including some of our Western MA treasures!

May 23, 2017 at 1:24 pm

Western Avenue studios on an open studio weekend is a fantastic way to spend the day. And trust me you need all day with 5 floors and over 300 artists.

[…] trips you can take with the family. From lighthouses to waterparks, here are some great ideas for 10 Summer Day Trips to take with your family in […]

[…] Mass, which had grown to have tens-of-thousands of readers a month.  Her popular blog post on 10 Summer Day Trips in Central MA went viral and she has been writing and posting about local events geared to children and families […]

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The 16 best day trips from Boston

Take a break from city life and visit these nearby New England destinations—no packing required

While many of us could easily spend every waking moment in Boston, it can be refreshing to escape the city for 24 hours or so. Fortunately, this picturesque New England region offers an array of potential day trips from Boston, including quaint seaside villages, historic towns and stunning mountain vistas. So grab your pals or significant other, and hop on a ferry, train or automobile to one of these lovely destinations. Once you're back in town, you'll once again feel ready to take advantage of the  best Boston attractions ,  best free things to do in Boston  and  best museums in Boston . And when you need a little longer time away check out our list of the best weekend getaways in New England . RECOMMENDED: The Best Hotels in Boston

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Best day trips from Boston

1.  Newport, RI

The Newport mansions of the Gilded Age still impress with their grandeur—just as they were built to do. If you have time to only tour one estate, check out The Breakers . Near the International Tennis Hall of Fame , the Audrain Auto Museum houses a seasonally rotating display of incredible cars inside a gorgeous Art Deco building.

Take the Cliff Walk, which has stunning views of the ocean, or relax at the public Easton’s Beach . Stroll past cool shops and eateries on narrow Thames Street. On Marlborough Street, dine at the White Horse Tavern , which claims to be America’s oldest restaurant, or duck over to The Reef at Howard Wharf for dinner and drinks with a view. Near the harbor, Bowen’s Wharf’s buildings date back to the 1700s, now offering an inviting maze of restaurants and shops. Stroll over the causeway to Goat Island where the Newport Harbor Lighthouse is overlooked by the upscale Gurney’s Resort.

2.  Portland, ME

​​Maine's largest city, located about a two-hour drive north of Boston, attracts epicureans from around the country to its cobblestone streets. Wander the charming, hilly Old Port district, where every kind of boutique imaginable touts colorful wares. Pop into one of the many quaint pubs and dimly lit cocktail bars, like the excellent Jewel Box or Blyth & Burrows —the latter of which pairs the best in innovative mixology with equally scrumptious small plates. In the West End arts district, enjoy the I.M. Pei-designed Portland Museum of Art and the State Theatre , which hosts national acts, both musical, comedic and theatrical.

The food scene here lives up to the hype:   Cong Tu Bot for nationally celebrated Vietnamese fare;  Green Elephant for an inventive vegetarian meal;   Evo Kitchen + Bar for progressive twists on Mediterranean cooking; or  Union , a vibrant locavore haunt located at  The Press Hotel , whose historic building was formerly the home of the Portland Press Herald.

3.  Newburyport, MA

The Newburyport Historic District, which encompasses most of the downtown, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This treasure trove of well-preserved, Federal-period architecture includes the notable Cushing House Museum & Garden , home of statesman Caleb Cushing, and the Custom House Maritime Museum , which also unravels local history. The beautiful Waterfront Park and boardwalk has regular concerts during warmer months.

Catch a play or see a show at the Firehouse Center for the Arts , grab a gourmet sandwich and bottle of wine at Joppa Fine Foods ,  relax with excellent cocktails and modern Middle Eastern bites at Bar25 ,  dine on classic seafood at The Black Cow  or head to the Newburyport Brewing Company ,  offering a friendly tap room and beer garden.

Newburyport includes part of neighboring, sedate Plum Island , a barrier island overlooking salt marshes.

4.  Gloucester, MA

Shipbuilders and fishermen put Gloucester on the map, and both industries still exist there today —just  on a smaller scale. The Fishermen’s Memorial on Gloucester Harbor honors all those lost at sea, including the Andrea Gale and its crew, the real-life victims of The Perfect Storm . Check out the Cape Ann Museum , which has an amazing collection of art and artifacts specific to Gloucester and its surroundings.

Across narrow Main Street, you can savor straight-off-the boat seafood at the chic basement restaurant  Tonno . Oak to Ember  will impress with its menu of hearty, wood-fire-cooked dishes and thoughtful cocktails. Or, if you're more about ocean views, head to the Beauport Hotel , whose 1606 Restaurant has a great deck overlooking the water. Next door to the hotel, Beauport Cruise Lines offers seasonal jaunts around the harbor.

5.  Salem, MA

Salem is forever linked to its horrifying and fascinating 1692 Witch Trials. The curious flock to the home of presiding Judge Corwin, which today is a museum known as The Witch House . Halloween is a big thing here—so are new age and cult shops. On a less spooky note, the Peabody Essex Museum houses a wonderful art collection, and Salem is the birthplace of Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of The House of the Seven Gables. You can even tour the house he may have been writing about, the 350-year-old Turner-Ingersoll Mansion.

Though it only dates back to 1930, Pioneer Village —a 10-minute drive from downtown, in Forest River Park—reenacts early 17th-century colonial life. Eat like a local at Ledger or Settler , or nerd out with old school arcade games and pinball machines at Bit Bar . 

6.  Provincetown, MA

Creative, sassy P-Town—located only a 90-minute ferry ride from Boston—is an artsy LGBT hotspot. It’s got a great mix of galleries, restaurants and nightlife hangouts. Lined with dozens of colorful shops, friendly eateries and local businesses, Commercial Street is the bustling heart of the town. Seek out one of the many events and festivals that fuel the thriving arts scene.

The famous and seasonal  Lobster Pot is the biggest name in town for classic lobster rolls and fresh seafood treats. Climb the 252-foot granite Pilgrim Monument for dramatic harbor views, then escape to Race Point Beach to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the open ocean.

Eat innovative seasonal dishes at Strangers & Saints and great seafood at Mac’s Fish House , which has crispy fish and chips and Happy Hour dollar oysters. Explore the beautifully barren Outer Cape’s stretch of the Cape Cod National Seashore , including Truro’s picturesque Highland Light .

7.  Ogunquit, ME

Set on the breathtaking Maine coast, Ogunquit is a popular, classic beach town with a quiet ambiance, particularly in the cooler months when crowds disappear. But it’s also a historic arts community; the Ogunquit Museum of American Art was started in the 1950s by native artist Henry Strater, a student of Ogunquit’s Perkins Cove artists colony.

Wander the galleries around town, explore the Barn Gallery on Shore Road and get tickets to a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse —which boasts eight decades of professional theatre and summertime children’s productions—or another summer stock theater.

8.  Watch Hill, RI

A coastal village that’s part of the town of Westerly, Watch Hill has one of the best beaches on the East Coast, and celebrity glamour to spare. Get to town early and take a walk out on the Napatree Point Conservation Area , where  you’ll find the remains of Fort Mansfield and lots of beautiful birds like osprey and piping plovers.

After your nature walk, head into the charming town for a stroll and some shopping. The kids will love the vintage carousel, and be sure to have lunch at the Olympia Tea Room (supposedly Taylor Swift’s fave—you can take a peek at her house from afar, too, because it’s hard to miss). Finish the day with cocktails at the gorgeous Ocean House , where you can have a drink and a bite to eat.

9.  Concord, MA

Stroll to the Old North Bridge and explore the Minute Man National Historical Park’s five-mile Battle Road Trail, dedicated to the Battle of Concord (April 19, 1775), where militia engaged with British troops and ignited the Revolutionary War. The 19th-century Transcendentalist movement and its influential authors and thinkers—Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau and Bronson Alcott—were rooted in Concord, and the Concord Museum is a good place to connect the dots. Located just outside of Concord Center are Walden Pond , which honors Thoreau’s famed naturalist journal, and Orchard House , where Louisa May Alcott wrote Little Women 150 years ago.

Pick up a picnic lunch at The Concord Cheese Shop . The Saltbox Kitchen’s tasty dishes and small-batch brewery are both fueled by produce from its nearby Saltbox Farm. For dinner, Woods Hill Table  also sources from their own farm at Woods Hill in Bath, NH, and the sleek, seasonally-focused 80 Thoreau is worth the day trip alone.

10.  Providence, RI

Providence is a foodie’s dream. Why does this small capital city have so much kitchen talent? Nearby Johnson & Wales University’s College of Culinary Arts is a major factor. Hemenway’s downtown is the grand dame of area seafood restaurants;  Waterman Grille is a vibrant jewel on the East Side near Brown University; and Aleppo Sweets is a lauded Syrian bakery and cafe—just to name a few spots. Federal Hill, the city’s impressive Italian neighborhood, is also loaded with Italian eateries and shops. 

Waterplace Park is a lovely gathering spot, and it anchors the city’s annual WaterFire program, which runs from spring through late fall; braziers along the Providence River are lit at sunset and stoked with aromatic wood by black-clad figures on boats, while themed music plays.

Providence is home to the notable Trinity Repertory Company , and The Strand Ballroom & Theatre, one of the nation’s best rock venues. The Rhode Island School of Design’s museum includes one the country’s finest university art collections.

11.  Mystic, CT

Settled in 1654, Mystic was once a shipbuilding seaport village. Now, it's a quintessential New England town, packed with mom-and-pop shops and activities for the whole family to do. 

During warm weather, spend a few hours on the sea with a day sail or sunset cruise from Argia Mystic Cruises , or visit the famous Mystic Aquarium or the Mystic Seaport Museum .  

After working up an appetite, stroll through the village to see the famous weighted Bascule bridge . P ick up a sweet treat from award winning Sift Bake Shop  and  splurge on a Connecticut lobster roll at the The Shipwright's Daughter  or a hearty, grass-fed burger at the Engine Room .  And, if you must eat pizza in Mystic, head to Nana’s Bakery and Pizza for inventive takes on personal pies.

12.  Falmouth, MA

Falmouth is nestled on the southwestern part of Cape Cod, 20 miles south of the Sagamore Bridge. Lined with great beaches, cool boutiques and relaxing spots to eat and drink, it's also one of The Cape’s easiest towns to get to. Do breakfast or lunch like a local at The Pickle Jar Kitchen .

The Falmouth Museums on the Green brings 1700s Cape Cod to life; the Federalist home of Dr. Francis Wicks is wonderfully preserved and packed with original artifacts. The Shining Sea Bike Trail ,  which hugs the coast and brings you past lovely views of both the Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay, runs from Falmouth to Woods Hole. The trail’s name comes from “America the Beautiful,” the famous poem by Katherine Lee Bates, a Falmouth native. (Though once a railroad, the path follows ancient Wampanoag Indian trails.) One more highlight: the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Science Discovery Center .

13.  Lexington, MA

The best part of taking a day trip to Lexington? You can easily do it by bicycle by traveling down the Minuteman Bikeway , which begins in North Cambridge and runs right through the leafy suburb, some 15 miles northwest of Boston. This posh town is most famous for its historic Battle Green , where the bloody Battle of Lexington took place and patriotic Minute Men engaged the British Army on Lexington Common. Many of the original homes flanking the battleground are preserved, including one that serves as a visitor’s center.

Stroll Lexington Center’s mom-and-pop shops, enjoy homemade ice cream at Rancatore’s or dine at il Casale   from local chef Dante de Magistris, who draws from his family’s roots to make handmade pastas, delicious sfizis and classic dishes, all in a rustic-chic atmosphere. For an elegant Sunday brunch or dinner, The Inn at Hastings Park’s Town Meeting Bistro  is a modern pleasure involving sleek, seasonal dishes.

14.  Kittery, ME

Kittery, while most famous for its shopping, has so much more to offer. First stop: Bob’s Clam Hut , a 60-year-old roadside diner that serves incredible fried clams, sustainable local fish and amazing milkshakes. Next stop? Yes, shopping at the adjacent Kittery Premium Outlets , whose stores include everything from discounted Calvin Klein to Lindt chocolate.

Also known for the historic Portsmouth Naval Yard —which is in Kittery, not neighboring Portsmouth, NH—this sleepy town includes Tributary Brewing Company , which has a cool tasting room and live music on weekends.

The heart of Kittery Foreside, which is the downtown area, is Wallingford Square and it's dotted with all kinds of restaurants including the sleek bistro Anneke Jans  and casual asian eatery  Anju Noodle Bar . Or  stop by Lil’s Café , a quaint spot set in a former bank whose old walk-in safe is now its Vinyl Vault, a small alcove with used records for sale. Lil’s bakery downstairs turns out some of the best pastries in New England and excellent chai, too.

15.  Washington, CT

For a small town in rural Connecticut, Washington has a big reputation for its arts and architecture. The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens is set in a once-abandoned gas station and boasts lovely landscaping and revolving art exhibits.

Every July, the Litchfield Jazz Festival takes place at venues around town and world-renowned modern dance company Pilobolus holds its Five Senses Festival . In September, Gilmore Girls fans take over—the town inspired the beloved TV program’s fictional Stars Hollow. Surrounded by colonial architecture, you can shop at unique boutiques and treat yourself to dinner (and a room, for a real spurge) at the historic, luxurious Mayflower Inn .

16.  Stockbridge, MA

Just off I-90, Stockbridge is the gateway to the beautiful Berkshires, part of the Taconic Mountains. Main Street is home to the venerable Red Lion Inn , a one-time frontier town tavern that maintains a casual eatery called Widow Bingham’s Tavern, as well as a gorgeously original main dining room with traditional favorites and an award-winning wine list.

Nature and art dominate the area: Just off Park Street, behind Main Street, take the wooden footbridge and walk the Laurel Hill Association’s beautiful trails. Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum and see where the renowned illustrator and artist lived and worked. Nearby, visit Chesterwood , the home of the Lincoln Memorial sculptor Daniel Chester French, and Naumkeag , a Gilded Age architectural masterpiece. A few miles away in Lenox is the Tanglewood Music Center , the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s summer home. Nearby, you can take a guided tour of Edith Wharton’s home, The Mount , and learn about the woman behind the building and the books.

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There are so many of fun things to do in Massachusetts that sometimes it can be hard to plan a day out. Luckily, we have a complete guide to day trips in Massachusetts. Here, you will find day trips completely planned out for you from start to finish, and you won't miss any cool attractions!

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21 Best Day Trips From Boston, Massachusetts

Here are my favorite day trips from Boston, MA, ranging from cities and charming seaside towns to national parks, state parks, and more!

Because I was born and raised in Massachusetts, I’ve spend much of my life exploring New England .

Though exploring my home didn’t excite me as much as going overseas, I have grown to love and appreciate the beauty and charm of New England.

So I’ve decided to write a post about the best day trips from Boston, MA.

Boston is one of the USA’s most incredible cities. It’s packed with history, architecture, museums, nightlife, and lots of cool attractions .

If you’re visiting Boston and you’d like to escape the city for a day, here are some beautiful day trips from Boston. I’ll also include some fun weekend getaways at the end!

Save money on Boston’s top attractions with the Boston City Pass !

How To Get Around On Day Trips From Boston

I would like to note that public transportation in the US is not great. There are some buses and trains, but having a car is the best way to get around.

Consider renting a car for the day if you want to visit one of these places. You don’t need a car in Boston itself though. Parking is expensive and honestly, Boston is a nightmare to drive around.

But if you want to leave the city and explore more of New England, it’s worth renting a car!

There are also some day trips from Boston without a car such as Salem, York, Plymouth, and Martha’s Vineyard. For these destinations I’ll link to some guided day trips that include transport.

That saves you the hassle of driving and navigating on your own!

What are the best day trips from Boston?

From Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod to some lesser known New England destinations, here are some of the best day trips from Boston!

Whether you want forest, beach, historic villages, or classic New England towns, there is lots to see and do outside the city.

Visit iVisa.com to apply for your visa for the USA!

1. Bolton, MA

• 40 minutes from Boston

Bolton is a peaceful residential town in Central Massachusetts. This is near where I grew up, and there is actually a lot to do here!

Pick your own apples in autumn at Bolton Spring Farm. Or visit Bolton Orchards for that classic rural New England farm stand. Here you can drink fresh apple cider, grab a homemade sandwich at the deli, or get an ice cream from the cafe.

Or if wine is more your style, head to Nashoba Valley Winery for wine tasting and nibbles outside overlooking the countryside.

2. Salem, MA

Located a short drive north of Boston, Salem is a historic Massachusetts town made famous by the Salem Witch Trials of the late 1600s.

A day trip to Salem from Boston allows you to explore the area’s rich maritime history through museums, landmarks, and historic sites around town.

The best way to learn all the fun facts about Salem is on a guided night walking tour ! You can also book a day trip from Boston to Salem via ferry that includes a visit to the Witch Museum. This is one of the best day trips from Boston without a car.

3. York, ME

• 1 hour from Boston

At just over an hour drive from downtown Boston, York is a beautiful seaside town in Maine.

Here you can enjoy the beach, tour a brewery or distillery, go golfing, and get ice cream or lobster rolls at a local restaurant. Be sure to also check out the iconic Nubble Lighthouse.

Book this highly-rated day trip from Boston that includes the highlights of Maine’s south coast such as York, Kennebunkport, and Ogunquit.

4. Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, MA

Located in Sutton, Massachusetts, Purgatory Chasm is a great place to stretch the legs outside Boston.

Full of huge rock formations, lush forests, and walking trails, this place is perfect for nature lovers and families.

But the rocks can be slippery in snow, rain, or ice, so avoid hiking in winter or wet weather.

Parking is $5 for MA residents and $20 for non residents.

5. Newport, RI

• 1 hour and 45 minutes from Boston

This charming Rhode Island city is one of the coolest places to visit in New England.

Known for its historic mansions, fun nightlife, cool shops, and beautiful coastline, there is so much to do in Newport.

Check out the unique shops on the historic Thames Street or go on a scenic boat cruise in Narragansett Bay. Stroll along the Cliff Walk or surf at Easton’s Beach.

Check out my full list of the best things to do in Newport here !

6. Douglas State Forest, MA

• 1 hour and 15 minutes from Boston

A beautiful place to escape into nature near Boston is Douglas State Forest .

The state park is open sunrise to sunset, and parking fees are charged between May and October for $9 (MA residents) or $30 (non-residents).

Douglas State Forest offers all sorts of outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, boating, horseback riding, fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, or cross country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.

7. Hampton Beach, NH

One of the best places for a beach day near Boston is Hampton Beach, New Hampshire.

The long strip of golden sand is framed by a lively boardwalk packed with eateries, arcades, souvenir shops, and entertainment venues.

It’s a popular spot for surfing as well, though the water is always freezing cold! You can also go swimming, walking, fishing, exploring, and camping at Hampton Beach State Park .

8. Cape Cod, MA

• 1-2 hours from Boston

Often referred to ask the “arm of Massachusetts”, Cape Cod is the peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean from the state’s eastern side.

A popular holiday spot and retirement destination for Massachusetts locals, Cape Cod is known for its charming towns, sandy beaches, and laid-back coastal vibe.

Cape Cod is packed with bustling towns like Falmouth, Mashpee, Hyannis, Bourne, Chatham, and Provincetown. Though every corner of the Cape has something special about it.

Flanked on both sides by sand dunes and beaches Cape Cod offers plenty of places to relax on the sand, swim in the sea, bike along the shore, and go on whale watching cruises .

Cape Cod National Seashore is a protected area of coastline where you can explore historic lighthouses, wildlife-filled marshes, and biking trails.

9. Old Sturbridge Village, MA

• 1 hour and 10 minutes from Boston

Whether you’re a history lover or you’re traveling with kids, Old Sturbridge Village is an educational and interactive place to visit near Boston.

Old Sturbridge Village is like a living museum! Wander through the sprawling replica of a rural Massachusetts town from the 1830s and learn what life was like back in the day.

10. Providence, RI

The exciting capital city of Rhode Island is just 1 hour from Boston!

A day trip or even a weekend trip to Providence is well worth it because this city is packed with entertainment and culture.

Visit a museum, explore a local art market, go on a ghost tour , or indulge in the nightlife. I’ve had so many fun experiences in Providence over the years and it’s truly an awesome city.

11. Keene, NH

• 2 hours from Boston

Keene is a quaint town in southwest New Hampshire that also makes a nice day trip from Boston.

Known for being a college town, Keene has a walkable town center full of classic New England architecture, cute cafes, green spaces, and nice restaurants.

There are also some great hiking trails around Keene, such as Mount Monadnock.

Harry Potter nerds should consider visiting Keene during the last week of July, also known as “Keene Wizarding Week”, when all the local businesses around town have Harry Potter-themed events and decorations!

12. Plymouth, MA

Plymouth is known for being the arrival point of the pilgrims who came over from England in 1620. It’s where the first European Settlement in New England began, thus playing an important role in US history.

Tourists flock to Plymouth to see the famous Plymouth Rock and the exact replica of the Mayflower II, the ship that the pilgrims arrived on.

Plymouth also has cool museums, gardens, walking trails, forests, and even a winery.

You can book a day trip to Plymouth if you’re looking for day trips from Boston without a car! This includes Boston hotel pick-up, guided tours around the historical sites, and a stop in Quincy (another historic Massachusetts town where 2 US presidents were born).

13. Walden Pond, MA

• 30 minutes from Boston

Located in Concord, Massachusetts, Walden Pond is one of the easiest day trips from Boston.

Here you can stroll through the peaceful nature, swim in the pond, or try water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or boating.

Walden Pond became famous when Henry David Thoreau wrote an entire book about the beauty of nature here (the book was titled Walden ).

So if you’re looking to escape the city and really dive into the natural beauty of Massachusetts, Walden Pond is the place to go.

14. Kittery, ME

Kittery is an adorable coastal town located near Maine’s southern border.

With pebbly beaches, cozy seafood restaurants, and unique museums, Kittery has lots to offer day trippers from Boston.

Go bike riding around the historic Fort Foster and eat a Maine lobster at Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier. Or shop for local produce at the Kittery Community Market on Sundays.

Go for a chilly ocean swim at Crescent Beach or Seapoint Beach. Kittery has lots of places to get outside and soak in the salty, seaside air!

15. Plum Island, MA

A beautiful barrier island located off the coast of northern Massachusetts, Plum Island is the perfect summer getaway from the city.

It’s about 11 miles long and filled with soft sandy beaches, lobster shacks, and the protected ecosystems of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.

Sandy Point State Reservation is also a great place for bird watching, sunbathing, and exploring the peaceful nature.

16. Portland, ME

Portland is a super cool city in Maine that is one of the best day trips from Boston.

This small city has new art galleries, ice cream shops, live music venues, dispensaries, museums, and more popping up all the time.

Grab a brew at Allagash Brewing Company, enjoy the views at the Portland Head Lighthouse, or check out the Portland Museum of Art.

Take your sightseeing to the waters with a scenic cruise , or cover more ground on a historic trolley tour !

More Day Trips From Boston (Better Suited To Weekend Trips)

There are so many amazing places to visit on a weekend trip from Boston, including New York City and Acadia National Park. These are about a 4 hour journey from Boston though, so you probably wouldn’t want to do these as a day trip.

However, here are some more epic locations that could be done as either a day trip or a weekend getaway.

The drive is around 2-3 hours for all of these. So you’d be better off on a weekend trip unless you want to wake up early and smash out lots of driving in one day.

Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights around the US!

17. Martha’s Vineyard, MA

• 2 hours and 45 minutes from Boston

Martha’s Vineyard is an iconic Massachusetts getaway. It’s a bit of a mission to get there from Boston, which is why it’s better suited to a weekend trip.

Travel by car, bus, or ferry to Wood Hole in Falmouth, Cape Cod. Then catch the ferry over to Martha’s Vineyard.

Or book a convenient day tour from Boston that includes all your transport so you can visit the island without all the hassle.

Once you arrive, spend the day strolling through the little town center, where there are quirky stores, seafood restaurants, fudge shops, and plenty of other cute attractions.

The colorful, intricate, fairytale houses of Oak Bluffs Campground are a highlight of Martha’s Vineyard as well!

18. White Mountains, NH

• 2.5 hours from Boston

The White Mountains in New Hampshire are a haven for wilderness lovers.

Filled with towering peaks, challenging trails, epic gorges, quaint mountain towns, and more, this located offers a wholesome getaway from the city.

Flume Gorge is a super cool attraction to check out. For those classic New England fall foliage views, visit the White Mountains in October or November!

Read my complete hiking guide to Flume Gorge for more info.

19. Block Island, RI

• 3 hours from Boston

This tiny but fun island off the coast of Rhode Island is another top beach destination in New England.

Admire the sand dunes at Mohegan Bluffs, hike along the Clay Head Nature Trail, or admire one of the few adorable lighthouses.

Block Island is also filled with beaches, restaurants, bars, and cozy inns if you want to stay the night.

20. Nantucket, MA

• 3.5 hours from Boston

Nantucket is another stunning island that you can get to in a few hours from Boston!

You’ll need to get yourself to Hyannis in Cape Cod and then catch the ferry from there. Consider combining Nantucket into a weekend trip to Cape Cod if you want!

Top things to do on Nantucket include strolling the Sconset Bluff Walk, seeing Brant Point Lighthouse, and visiting the Whaling Museum.

And of course, hitting the beach. Sconset Beach, Jetties Beach, Madaket Beach, and Steps Beach are top choices.

21. Lake Winnepesaukee, NH

One of the top destinations for a weekend trip from Boston is Lake Winnepesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire.

Nestled at the foothills of the White Mountains, New England locals flock here in summer for boating, swimming, and enjoying that lazy lake life.

Popular beaches on Lake Winnepesaukee include Weirs Beach, Bartlett Beach, and Allen Albee Beach.

Other highlights of the area include the local museums, riding the Winnepesaukee Scenic Railroad, seeing a movie at the Weird Drive-In Theatre, and playing games at Funspot Arcade .

Thanks for reading about my favorite day trips from Boston, MA!

For anyone traveling to the USA, check out my list of 50 budget travel tips to save money. The USA isn’t a very cheap country to travel around!

I also definitely recommend having travel insurance. The healthcare system in the USA is insane, and if something bad happens you may just go bankrupt trying to pay for emergency care out of pocket.

Check out my budget traveler’s guide to travel insurance for more info. Or check out my favorite travel insurance website, Squaremouth Insurance !

You also need a visa to visit the USA! Don’t forget to apply before you arrive.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

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Beaches Near Boston

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Fenway Park Guide

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The Best Time to Visit Boston

Weather & Climate

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One-Day Itinerary

Day Trips From Boston

The 13 Best Day Trips from Boston

Boston is a historic city with plenty of things to do and places to see, but there’s also lots more to explore outside the city limits. Whether you’re heading north to the mountains to ski or taking the ferry to Cape Cod’s Provincetown , there are day trips to take in every direction. Read on for our recommendations, all within driving distance and some you can even access by public transportation.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

DenisTangeyJr/Getty Images

Portsmouth is a historic coastal New Hampshire city that may be small in size but is full of character and popular restaurants. Have drinks along the docks on Bow Street as the sun sets at Pocos , Martingale Wharf or the Old Ferry Landing . For a seafood dinner with a view, try Surf , also on Bow Street. And for a casual yet tasty breakfast, you can’t go wrong with Colby’s .

Those visiting Portsmouth will enjoy walking around Prescott Park and learning about the history of Portsmouth at the Strawbery Banke Museum . Make sure you reserve some time for walking around the downtown area and popping into shops along the way. This city is growing year-by-year, with hotels and condos being built up as it grows in popularity.

Getting There: Portsmouth is about an hour and a half from Boston and the best way to get there is by car. If you don’t have a car, you can also take the C&J Bus Line.

Travel Tip: Pack a beach chair and drive down Route 1A to take in the Seacoast’s beaches. One of the first destinations you’ll come across in Rye is Ordiorne State Park , where you can walk around along the ocean. Eventually, you’ll get to Hampton Beach before you cross back over into Massachusetts.

Boston Area Beaches

David Robinson/EyeEm/Getty Images

On a hot summer day, or even when the sun is shining in the spring or fall, there are plenty of beaches in the Boston area to spend a day relaxing at.

On your way back from Portsmouth, drive south along the ocean until you reach the beaches in Rye, or continue on to the popular Hampton Beach strip, where there’s a big beach and plenty of restaurants. Just over the Massachusetts border is Salisbury Beach, another day trip spot just over an hour north of Boston. Other beautiful beaches on Boston’s North Shore include Wingaersheek and Good Harbor Beaches in Gloucester , Plum Island Beach in Newburyport, Crane Beach in Ipswich, Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea and Revere Beach in Revere.

The South Shore’s beaches are equally as beautiful, with one of the closest options being Wollaston Beach in Quincy, and then many others including Duxbury Beach in Duxbury and Nantasket Beach in Hull. Of course, you can continue south to Cape Cod for plenty more beaches to choose from.

Getting There: Most of these beaches are only accessible by car and the furthest options listed are a maximum of 1.5 hours away, depending on traffic and where you are coming from. If you prefer public transportation , you can get to Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea and Revere Beach in Revere by the Commuter Rail and MBTA Blue Line, respectively.

Travel Tip: If you want to hit the beach but aren’t the type to stay from sunrise to sunset, try one of the beaches on New Hampshire’s Seacoast and then plan to stop explore Portsmouth before or after. The same applies to Plum Island and Newburyport. 

Newburyport, Massachusetts

ivanastar/Getty Images

Newburyport is another coastal town, which feels similar to downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire in many ways. It was settled back in 1635 but has of course modernized over the years. Newburyport is most popular during the summer months given its location and nearby beaches, including Plum Island . But Newburyport is an ideal day trip from Boston at any time of year, as there are quite a few shops to stop by, restaurants to eat at and scenery to take in.

Getting There: Most people drive to Newburyport from Boston, as it’s under an hour and right off exit 56 on I-95 North. You can also take the Newburyport/Rockland Commuter Rail line from North Station.

Travel Tip: While you’re in Newburyport, drive over to Plum Island to spend some time at the beach, no matter what time of year. 

Provincetown, Massachusetts

Photography by Deb Snelson/Getty Images 

Located at the very tip of Cape Cod is Provincetown (also known as “P-Town”), best known as a gay resort community, but also a beautiful place to visit for a day, weekend or more. While driving to the end of the Cape may not seem like a day trip, it’s easy to get there via a 90-minute ferry through Bay State Cruise Company.

Provincetown is surrounded by water on three sides with several beaches to enjoy. Both during the day and in the evening, check out the downtown area’s restaurants, art galleries, boutiques and more.

If you're not able to make it to Provincetown, there are plenty of Cape Cod towns within a shorter driving range.

Getting There: Take the 90-minute Bay State Cruise Company ferry from Boston, which is the fastest way to get there. The ferry operates daily from mid-May to mid-October, with trips leaving Boston three times a day. If you prefer to drive through the Cape, it will take you over two hours, but typically longer, as the roads are oftentimes single-lane and traffic can be bad.

Travel Tip: You’ll find fresh lobster rolls all over Provincetown, but be sure to stop by The Canteen , which serves both hot and cold options.

Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, Massachusetts

grantreig/Gettyimages 

Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are two islands off the coast of Massachusetts, both of which are popular tourist destinations, especially during the summer months. Both are doable for day trips, especially Martha’s Vineyard, as it’s a bit shorter of a ferry ride. Both islands are quiet during the winter months, so plan your visit from Spring through Fall.

Vineyard Haven in Martha’s Vineyard, where the ferry drops you off, is full of shops and restaurants. You can also head to nearby Oak Bluffs, where you’ll find the 318 colorful Gingerbread Cottages at Wesleyan Grove off of Circuit Street. If you bring your bike or car along, you can explore the island’s beaches and other downtown areas as well.

Nantucket has different coastal vibe than Martha’s Vineyard and is also smaller in size. Here you’ll find cobblestone streets downtown and picture-worthy homes covered in hydrangeas all over the island. Of course, there are beautiful beaches around the island, along with food, galleries and boutiques. Stop by Cisco Brewers for a taste of local beer, which has become more and more popular throughout New England. And have a drink made with Nantucket’s Triple Eight Blueberry Vodka at one of the bars downtown.

Getting There: Martha’s Vineyard is a 45-minute ferry ride via the Steamship Authority from Woods Hole, which takes you to Vineyard Haven. The fast ferry to Nantucket is through Hy-Line Cruises , takes an hour and leaves from Hyannis. There are slower ferry options available, but these are the most efficient for a day trip. Keep in mind that Hyannis and Woods Hole are both on Cape Cod, so you’ll need to leave time for traffic if you’re traveling during peak hours. Both islands can also be accessed by plane from Boston’s Logan International Airport .

Travel Tip: You can choose to bring a car onto the ferry, but it’s recommended that you make plans for that in advance. That, coupled with the cost, is the reason many people choose to take a bike or get around Martha’s Vineyard through the Vineyard Transit Authority.

Providence, Rhode Island

About an hour drive south from Boston is the city of Providence, Rhode Island, also known as the “Creative Capital.” This city has become a popular tourist spot over the years, with popular attractions including WaterFire , a series of over 80 bonfires along downtown Providence’s three rivers, or the annual Halloween Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular or the Faces of the Rainforest exhibit at the Roger Williams Park Zoo . From November through March, head to the Providence Rink for Ice Bumper Cars .

Providence also has a foodie scene, with chefs coming from Rhode Island’s Johnson & Wales opening restaurants within the city, such as Oberlin , a seafood-focused small plates and tapas concept. If you’re looking for Italian, head to Federal Hill , the Little Italy of Providence. The Dorrance is another reputable spot, located within a former bank and serving globally-inspired New England cuisine. And while you’re in town, stop by PVDonuts for delicious and unique brioche donuts in fun flavors like fruit pebbles, butterscotch crunch and brown butter brownie.

Popular Providence hotels include The Dean , built around the city’s history and culture, and the Providence Biltmore , a historic property designed by the architects of New York’s Grand Central Terminal, and the Hotel Providence , another centrally located option that’s great for all types of travelers.

Getting There: Providence is an hour drive from Boston. You can also get there by train , including the Amtrak and MBTA Commuter Rail on the Providence-Stoughton line, both leaving from Boston’s South Station.

Travel Tip: For the best pizza in town, try no-frills Caserta Pizza , also known for their “Wimpy Skimpy,” a spinach pie stuffed with black olives, cheese & pepperoni.

Newport, Rhode Island

 Forty 1° North

Newport, Rhode Island is another coastal town within driving distance from Boston. Here you’ll find the makings of a perfect day trip, from the Gilded Age mansions and beaches, to walking along the famous Cliff Walk. Visitors also enjoy exploring the Brick Market Place , a downtown are with more than 25 shops and eateries. If anyone you’re traveling with is into cars, check out the Newport Car Museum , located in nearby Portsmouth.

Favorite Newport restaurants include The White Horse Tavern, America’s oldest tavern, Winner Winner , Scarpetta Newport , The Black Pearl and Mission Burger . If you plan on staying overnight, top-rated hotels and resorts include The Vanderbilt, Forty 1° North , Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina and The Chanler at Cliff Walk . Many of these hotels

Getting There: Newport is an hour and a half drive from Boston and car is the easiest way to get there.

Travel Tip: Even if you’re not staying overnight, many of the top hotels are also great spots to grab drinks with a view if you’re in town for just the day. Head over to Forty 1° North and order your favorite cocktail as you look out on the water.

Nashoba Valley Winery & Other Vineyards

 Nashoba Valley Winery

New England may not have a full-blown wine country, but there are several family-owned vineyards that make for great day trips, with at least one option nearby no matter where you are staying. From Boston, your best bet is the Nashoba Valley Winery , where you can sample the vineyard’s wines and also pick your own peaches, nectarines and apples when they are in season and enjoy farm-to-table food at J’s Restaurant.

Another Massachusetts option is Furnace Brook Winery in the Berkshires, about 2.5 hours away from Boston. An hour north of the city, there’s South Hampton, New Hampshire’s Jewell Towne Vineyards. In Rhode Island, try Verde Vineyards or Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard . As you head into Connecticut, follow the Connecticut Wine Trail and try the Lost Acres Vineyard in North Granby, Arrigoni Winery in Portland and Sharpe Hill Vineyard in Pomfret.

Getting There: The Nashoba Valley Winery is around an hour drive from Boston in Bolton, Massachusetts.

Travel Tip: If you plan on visiting several vineyards and wineries in one day, make sure you have a designated driver or look for transportation services, such as limos or tours to take you from one spot to another.

Mountains of Massachusetts and New Hampshire

JodiJacobson/Getty Images 

Speaking of Nashoba Valley, this destination is not only home to one of the best vineyards near Boston, but Nashoba Valley Ski Area is also a great winter destination for skiing and tubing if you’re into these activities but not long drives. Other places to ski in Massachusetts include Wachusett Mountain in Princeton, Blue Hills Ski Area in Canton and Ski Bradford in Haverhill.

As you head into New Hampshire , popular ski resorts and mountains include Waterville Valley Resort , Loon Mountain , Gunstock , Cannon and more. Another option, Bretton Woods , is not only a ski resort, but also home to the beautiful Omni Mount Washington Resort , which has plenty to do for both skiers and those who prefer après skiing activities. 

Getting There: Nashoba Valley Ski Area is less than an hour from Boston by car, and other Massachusetts ski destinations range between 40 minutes to a little over an hour. Most of the drivable New Hampshire mountains are just over two hours away from Boston.

Travel Tip: To make your ski trip even easier, try Liftopia Experiences , a service that will take you on trips from Boston such as skiing at Crotched Mountain or snow tubing at Ski Ward and to a local brewery. Outdoor retailer REI also offers classes and activities, such as a store to slopes shuttle  that takes you to Stratton Mountain.

Lincoln, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s White Mountains is where you’ll find the town of Lincoln, where Loon Mountain is located. But that’s not all Lincoln has to offer. During the winter months, the Ice Castles are a picturesque destination to visit. You can also go ice skating at The Rink at RiverWalk Resort , which was transformed from a 167,000 gallon swimming pool that’s available for guests in the summer. While you’re at the RiverWalk Resort, take a sleigh ride, go snowmobiling or taste wine at the Seven Birches Winery , which is right on the property.

Getting There: Lincoln is about two hours from Boston without traffic and your best bet for getting there is by car.

Travel Tip: Beware of traveling north from Boston during the winter months on Friday afternoons and evenings, as it’s likely you’ll run into traffic leaving the city as locals get out of work and head to the mountains. 

Plymouth, Massachusetts

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

One of the best spas in the Boston area is located south of the city in Plymouth at the Mirbeau Inn & Spa . There’s more than just great massages and facials here – there’s a heated foot pool surrounded by lounge chairs to relax in, as well as an outdoor jacuzzi to enjoy while you sip champagne from the bar.

While you’re in Plymouth, take a walk along the water and check out the iconic Plymouth Rock and Pilgrim Hall Museum , America’s oldest, continuously operated, public museum filled with artifacts that came to our country with the Pilgrims. Then head 3 miles down the road to the Plimouth Plantation museum.

Nearby in Carver, the kids will enjoy the Edaville Family Theme Park , which is particularly fun around the holidays with their Christmas Festival of Lights. 

With Plymouth being on the water, there’s plenty of fresh seafood and outdoor dining, with restaurant favorites including Woods Seafood , Rye Tavern , East Bay Grille and Cabby Shack .

Getting There: The easiest way to get to Plymouth is via car, which will take about an hour. There is also a Commuter Rail stop in Plymouth if you prefer public transportation.

Travel Tip: While the Plymouth Rock is certainly a Massachusetts landmark, don’t be surprised when it’s nothing substantial when you see the remains in person. There is still plenty to see and do in Plymouth though!

Portland, Maine

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images 

Portland, Maine may sound far away from Boston, but at two and a half hours away, it’s still doable for a day or weekend trip. This coastal downtown area has developed quite the foodie scene and it’s also a great spot to take in New England’s fall foliage season . Top restaurants include Fore Street , Central Provisions , Duckfat , Eventide Oyster Co. and Holy Donut . If you’re into beer, go for a tasting at Shipyard Brewing Company .

You can spend an entire weekend walking around downtown Portland and popping into shops, restaurants and bars. But another fun activity when the weather is nice to take the short ferry over to Peaks Island , where you can rent bikes or golf carts to cruise around the island and take in the coastal views.

Getting There: Portland is about two and a half hours away from Boston by car. Another option is to take Amtrak’s Downeaster from North Station in Boston to Portland, which takes about the same amount of time.

Travel Tip: Fore Street won a 2018 TripSavvy Editors’ Choice Award as one of the Best Iconic Restaurants & Fine Dining . This restaurant books up far in advance, but they reserve spots for walk-ins. The trick is to put your name in right when they open at 5:30 p.m.

Wrentham, Massachusetts

Wrentham Village Premium Outlets

Just south of the city are the  Wrentham Village Premium Outlets , a shopping plaza where both locals and tourists go to get lots of shopping done at once, especially around the holidays. As New England’s largest outdoor shopping center, you’ll find everything from Off Saks and Tory Burch, to Vineyard Vines and the Nike Factory Store.

Getting There: The Wrentham Village Premium Outlets are located just 35 miles south of Boston, right off exit 15 on I-495. The best way to get there is by car.

Travel Tip: Bring your AAA card if you have one. When you get there, show it at the visitor center to get a coupon book that will give you even more discounts than you get at the outlets. 

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Press Release  DCR Announces Educational, Affordable and Fun Programming for Families Across the State During April School Vacation

Media contact   for dcr announces educational, affordable and fun programming for families across the state during april school vacation, ilyse wolberg, dcr deputy communications director.

Boston — The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced its plans to provide Massachusetts children and families with fun, educational and affordable programming at parks and watershed properties across the state during April school vacation week. From guided hikes and bike rides to painting, birding, and animal demonstrations, the agency is offering 42 free or low-cost engaging programs for kids from Saturday, April 13, to Sunday, April 21. DCR is closing out the week with the agency’s 18 th annual Park Serve Day during which thousands of volunteers will clean up and beautify parks across the state. These programs are part of DCR’s ongoing efforts to provide fun, safe, and low-cost recreational programming for kids and families. 

“One of our priorities at DCR is getting more families into our beautiful state parks and experiencing the natural world around them,” said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo . “I’m thrilled that we are offering affordable programming that will bring kids into our parks during this April break and encourage them to take an active role in the stewardship of our natural, recreational, and cultural resources.” 

In total, DCR staff are hosting 42 events at 15 locations across Massachusetts. For a full list of all programming offered during April school vacation week, visit DCR’s website . DCR will also continue to provide its regular programming, including self-guided hikes , and visitor centers will be open for people to enjoy exhibits. For details about staff-led programs and self-guided activities, visit DCR’s website . For a list of adaptive programming offered during April vacation week, visit our Universal Access Program webpage . 

Visitors and participants are encouraged to tweet, post, and tag photos on social media using @MassDCR. Follow DCR’s posts on X (Twitter) , Instagram , and Threads to see some of the program highlights.  

Highlights from DCR’s 2024 April vacation week programming include: 

CENTRAL REGION  

Secrets of the Skull at Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, 198 Purgatory Rd., Sutton  

Sunday, April 14 and Sunday, April 21, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

You can learn many things about how an animal lives by looking at its skull. Participants will examine animal skulls and learn how the animals survive. Meet in the pavilion near the entrance to the chasm. The program is appropriate for ages 4 and up. It will be held in the Visitor Center during inclement weather. No dogs allowed. For more information, please call (508)-234-9610. 

Freshwater Macros!

at Wachusett Reservoir, 180 Beaman St., West Boylston  

Wednesday, April 17, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.   

Find out why we care about macroinvertebrates - aquatic creatures big enough to see without a microscope. Get hands-on experience exploring samples to identify and uncover the story they tell about water quality. This event is part of DCR’s monthly "Watershed Wednesday" series, where Water Supply Protection staff meet with the community to have engaging conversations. Meet at Wachusett Reservoir Headquarters. The entrance is at the flagpoles. No dogs allowed. All ages are welcome. For more information, please call (617)-352-4044.  

SOUTH REGION   

Fox Talk at Blue Hills Reservation, 860 Hill Side Dr., Milton   

Tuesday, April 16, 10:30-11:30 a.m. 

The clever red and elusive gray foxes of the Blue Hills adapt to the changing seasons and make their home here in unexpected ways. Learn about their fascinating behavior and the signs of their silent comings and goings. Meet at the Visitor Center. Dogs are welcome on leash. All ages are welcome. For more information, please call (857)-208-8498. 

Slippery and Scaly: Eely and Fishy at Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 131 Waquoit Highway, East Falmouth    

Thursday, April 18, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.  

The American eel has a fascinating migration story, as do some of the state’s local fish. Participants will learn about eels by playing a slippery eel game and catching some fish on the beach for a closer look. They will also make a stuffed animal eel. Please wear rubber boots or waterproof shoes for netting creatures by the beach. The program is for children ages 11 and under accompanied by an adult. The program will run rain or shine. 

NORTH REGION  

Spring Birding Walk-Symphony of Bird Song at Halibut Point State Park, 4 Gott Ave., Rockport  

Sunday, April 21, 8 –10 a.m.  

Stroll the seaside and learn birding basics as you hear the symphony of spring bird song. Watch for them in the fields, woodlands, and at the ocean’s edges. Participants will learn about bird sounds, habits, and flight patterns, while enjoying the park’s extraordinary views. Bring binoculars. All ages welcome. Meet at the parking area. No dogs allowed. For more information, please call (978)-546-2997. 

An Oasis for Birds   at Belle Isle Marsh Reservation, 1399 Bennington St., East Boston  

Saturday, April 20, 7:30-8:30 a.m.  

Participants will search for birds on foot up to one mile, on flat, easy terrain for birds at Belle Isle Marsh – a birding hotspot and state park that experiences about 271 species of birds each year. Participants should expect to move to different locations by car or bicycle. Be ready for chilly weather and a breeze - dress in warm layers, including a hat and gloves. Sturdy winter boots suitable for walking through snow are recommended. The program is co-sponsored by the Brookline Bird Club and the Friends of Belle Isle Marsh. Meet at the Belle Isle parking area. No dogs allowed. All ages are welcome. For more information, please call (781) 656-1485. 

WEST REGION  

Eastern European Immigration & Industrialization in Massachusetts at Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls  

Sunday, April 14, 2 -3:30 p.m. 

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Polish and other Eastern European immigrants arrived in the Connecticut River Valley to begin new lives as small farmers and factory workers. Learn about this migration in a talk by Robert Forrant, Distinguished University Professor of History at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He is co-editor with Mary Anne Trasciatt of the book, Where are the Workers: Interpreting Labor and Working-Class History at Museums and Historic Sites . This free event is presented by the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association and funded by Mass Humanities as part of the Expanding Massachusetts Stories initiative. The event is for young people and adults. Meet at the Great Hall. No dogs allowed. For more information, please call 413-863-3221.  

Budding Painter's Workshop at Holyoke Heritage State Park, 221 Appleton St., Holyoke   

Wednesday, April 17, two sessions:  

10 –11 a.m. for ages 6 –9: leaf printing and color usage and 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. for ages 10-15: brush strokes and perspective   

Calling all budding artists! Come learn painting techniques from watercolor artist Christine Copeland. Explore perspective, colors, leaf printing, brush strokes, and more. Display your finished artwork on the forest mural next to Christine’s exhibited works in the park’s visitor center. Artists can take their pieces home. Materials will be supplied. Participants should wear clothing that they don’t mind getting paint on. Meet at the Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. The program is free, but registration is required; please specify the age of the painters. To register or for more information, please call (413)-534-1723.  

Department of Conservation & Recreation 

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.