summer day trips in massachusetts

The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Massachusetts

Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

More by this Author

If you’re looking for “quick road trips near me,” look no further than some of the very best day trips in Massachusetts . You don’t have to use up your vacation days to make some amazing memories in Massachusetts. There are plenty of great experiences to be had that are perfect for a weekend day trip. Whether you’re looking to get out into nature, go on a delicious chocolate adventure or even relax in an enchanting crystal cave, there’s something for everyone on this list. Here are 11 of the best day trips in Massachusetts .

Related Stories

This Friendly Small Town in Massachusetts That's Perfect For A Summer Day Trip

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

3 Incredible Massachusetts Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Have you been looking for “quick road trips near me” in Massachusetts? Fortunately, you’ve just found some of the best day trips in Massachusetts. What do you think is the very best day trip in Massachusetts? Let us know in the comments! For more Massachusetts day trip fun, check out these awesome Massachusetts day trips that you can take by train.

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

Want more Massachusetts in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Massachusetts!

Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.

An error occured.

More to Explore

Best day trips in massachusetts.

What are the best day trips in Massachusetts?

The best day trips in Massachusetts are:

• Visit Southwick's Zoo in Mendon
• Go on a Boston Brew Tour
• Explore the Bancroft Tower in Worcester

Even if you don’t have time for a vacation, you’ll discover a ton of quick getaways in Massachusetts , including day trips. Did you know, for example, that you can day trip (or turn it into an overnighter) to five covered bridges in the state? The day trip will take you to Tannery Bridge in Sandisfield and Sheffield Covered Bridge in Sheffield. Pair wine with waterfalls on the wine and waterfalls day trip in Massachusetts . You’ll travel to such waterfalls as Doane’s Falls in Royalston and Trap Falls in Ashby.

What are the best road trips through Massachusetts?

The best road trips through Massachusetts are:

• The Massachusetts ice cream trail
• Horseneck Beach State Reservation, Westport
• Massachusetts hidden beach road trip

Road trips in Massachusetts are popular and for good reason. A road trip can give us the opportunity to explore places we’ve never been. Fans of architecture and castles might want to hit the road on the road trip to Massachusetts’ majestic castles . The road trip includes stops at Hammond Castle in Gloucester and Searles Castle in Great Barrington. If you’re a fan of the paranormal, hit the highway on the most haunted road trip in Massachusetts . Increase your chances of experiencing the paranormal with visits to the USS Salem in Quincy, Danvers State Mental Hospital, and Hoosac Tunnel in North Adams.

Which hidden gems in Massachusetts should I visit?

The best hidden gems in Massachusetts are:

• Mapparium, The Mary Baker Eddy Library, Boston
• The Snug Pub, Hingham
• Hebert's Candy Mansion, Shrewsbury
• Heritage Museum & Gardens, Sandwich

Some of the best things to do in Massachusetts will take you to its most treasured hidden gems. If you’re in Boston, carve out time to visit The Mapparium. Perhaps one of the most unique destinations in all of Massachusetts, the Mapparium is a three-story tall globe that you can walk inside. It’s made of stained glass. Robbins Farm Park in Arlington is the ideal destination if you have kids. The park features slides that are built right into the hillside. Stockbridge General Store in Stockbridge, on the other hand, will certainly give you a rush of nostalgia.

Related Articles

• This Off-The-Beaten-Path City In Massachusetts Is The Perfect Place To Spend A Day
• The Scenic Drive In Massachusetts That Runs Straight Through The Charming Small Town Of Barre
• The Under-The-Radar Scenic Drive In Massachusetts That Showcases Mountains And City Views
• 12 Unforgettable Massachusetts Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year
• This Epic One-Day Road Trip Across Massachusetts Is Full Of Adventures From Sunrise To Sunset
• 7 Massachusetts Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter
• 9 Places In Massachusetts That Are Actually Better In Cold Weather
• With It's Own Private Backyard, This Incredible Restaurant In Massachusetts Is Perfect For Families

Explore Massachusetts

• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips from Massachusetts

• Complete List & Map

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

Last Updated By VI on March 9, 2024 in Things to Do in Massachusetts & Places to Visit

More Features

25 Best Hotels & Resorts in Massachusetts

20 Best Wineries in Massachusetts

25 Best Massachusetts State Parks

• --> Conclusion

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

11 Amazing Things to do in Summer in Massachusetts

• Latest Posts

• 21 Family Vacations in New England for Every Season (2024) - February 26, 2024
• 15 Wonderful Weekend Getaways in Maine (2024) - February 3, 2024
• 33 Best Beach Towns in New England to Visit in 2024 🌊 - January 28, 2024

When the weather is warm, Massachusetts is truly unlike any other state. From laying out by the beach, exploring state parks, and even grabbing some tasty ice cream, there are so many fun things to do in summer in Massachusetts!

No matter your interests, this post has got you covered with all of the best summer activities. Whether you’d rather stay inside, go on tours, or even just relax, there’s truly something for you throughout this list.

Keep reading to learn all about the top things to do in summer in Massachusetts, in no particular order!

Table of Contents

Vacation on Nantucket

Known for its fantastic beaches , Nantucket is definitely one of the most unique getaways in Massachusetts, especially in the summer. It’s located right off the state’s coast and is actually an island, so you can run on island time.

In addition to visiting the beaches, though, there are tons of other fun activities on Nantucket, with one of the most popular being whale watching . There are quite a few tours that allow guests to see them up close. Plus, summer is one of the best times of year to go whale watching.

Other fun activities include shopping downtown, having a cocktail near the water, exploring the island to visit the lighthouses, and also stargazing. It’s truly a place where you can just relax, no matter how long you’re there.

Visit the Beaches on Cape Cod

No list of things to do in summer in Massachusetts is complete without mentioning Cape Cod at least once. So, be sure to stop by the beautiful beaches there! Whether you’d rather catch some sun by relaxing in the sand, play beach volleyball with pop-up nets, or swim out in the water, the Cape Cod beaches are for you.

There are so many to choose from, but here are a few great ones to choose from to get started:

• Mayflower Beach: This is one of the more popular Cape Cod beaches (in fact, it’s also one of the most popular in the entire state ). Even though the crowds may be bigger, seeing the sunset view there is worth it. Plus, it’s located right in the town of Dennis.
• Chatham Lighthouse Beach: This is the perfect beach to go to if you want to be near a lighthouse. It’s located near Chatham and is excellent for those who are more interested in beach views rather than swimming.
• Seagull Beach: As the name suggests, you will see birds here! It’s the biggest beach in Yarmouth and tends to have large crowds, but the beach itself is huge, so you can find a spot just for yourself.
• Sandy Neck Beach: Located in Barnstable, this is one of the more rugged beaches in the area. It’s a popular spot to go off-roading, so it’s great for those who would rather have a different beach experience.

Go Whale Watching in Gloucester

One of the most popular things to do in summer in Massachusetts is to go whale watching in Gloucester. As you may have guessed, the easiest way to do this is to book a tour with a local company that has experience finding these whales safely.

If you’re looking for places specifically in Gloucester, consider booking it with Captain Bill and Sons Whale Watch , Cape Ann Whale Watch , or 7 Seas Whale Watch .

If you find yourself in other parts of the state and can’t make it to Gloucester but want to go whale watching, don’t worry. You can also go whale watching in Boston , Provincetown , Plymouth , Barnstable, and even Nantucket.

Hike in a Massachusetts State Park

What better way to get outdoors than to go hiking? Luckily, there are many great state parks in Massachusetts to choose from, each of which comes equipped with miles of hiking trails worth exploring by an adventurer like you.

There are so many state parks in Massachusetts, so it can be hard to decide which one to go to, but a few of the best include Joseph Allen Skinner State Park , Nickerson State Park , and Bash Bish Falls State Park . What’s so great about the state parks is that they each have tons of trails meant for all types of hiking levels, so no matter your experience, you’ll be able to find one that’s perfect for you.

If hiking actually isn’t something you’re interested in doing, there are also tons of other activities that can be had at these parks. For example, you can go mountain biking, have a picnic, or even canoe in some of the parks that have lakes .

Attend the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood

If you’re a fan of music, one of the best things to do in summer in Massachusetts is attending the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood . This experience is truly like any other and is even different than the one that you would get at the Symphony Hall in Boston.

Tickets can sometimes be hard to come by so just be sure to keep a close eye on their website to see when tickets drop so that you can make sure you snag some and can enjoy this amazing musical event. This is the perfect event to attend if you’re looking for a romantic evening out! 

Cool off with Ice Cream

Obviously one of the best things to do in summer in Massachusetts is to grab an ice cream to cool off! Many people don’t realize that it can get really warm in the summer, but luckily there are incredible ice cream shops all throughout the state.

One of the best places to go for ice cream in the entire state is none other than Cape Cod! Some great ice cream shops on Cape Cod include Ice Cream Smuggler in Dennis, Lewis Brothers Ice Cream in Provincetown, and Sweet Caroline’s in Sandwich.

However if you find yourself in any other part of the state, you’re more than likely to find a great ice cream shop nearby. Even in the city of Boston, you can find amazing ice cream shops like Emack & Bolio’s or the Cookie Monstah food truck which can often be found by Boston Commons.

See a Movie at Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre

One of the most iconic experiences you can have in Massachusetts during this time of year is seeing a movie under the stars at the Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre . There really aren’t many drive-in theaters left in the United States so being able to even see a movie at one of them is an unforgettable experience. In fact, this drive-in theater, in particular, dates back to the 1950s and is the last one left on Cape Cod.

The drive-in theater normally opens in May each year and pricing is per car. Be sure to either bring a battery-powered radio or be prepared to have your car radio on for the entirety of the show so that you can hear the sound. This is an incredible experience, especially for those visiting the area with kids.

Spend the Weekend in a Beach Town

What better way to enjoy summer in Massachusetts than to head to one of the incredible beach towns that the state is known for? Because it’s a coastal state, Massachusetts is filled with beach towns that you truly don’t want to miss out on. We already touched a bit on the amazing Cape Cod, but there are also other beach towns worth considering.

A few of the great beach towns in Massachusetts include Gloucester, Wellfleet , Chatham , Newburyport , Provincetown, and of course Nantucket. Truly though, even just driving along the coast and finding beautiful small beach towns to stop at is the perfect way to spend a summer’s day in Massachusetts.

Walk The Freedom Trail

If you are a history fan, then you’re definitely going to want to head to Boston in the summer. Boston is one of the most historic cities in the United States and for good reason. In fact, one of the absolute must-do activities in Boston is none other than walking the Freedom Trail .

You can absolutely walk the Freedom Trail on your own, but be sure to grab a map so that you know what historic spots to look out for along the way. There are great markers right on the ground throughout the city so it’s impossible to go off track. 

If you’d rather do this walk with a tour guide, you can also do that instead. These can be really fun and often the tour guides even dress up in historic outfits, almost bringing you back in time to learn about Boston history.

Have a Blast at Six Flags New England

This may seem like a bit of an obvious one but one of the best things to do in summer in Massachusetts is to head to an amusement park! The most popular amusement park in Massachusetts is none other than Six Flags New England in the central part of the state.

This amusement park is filled with tons of rides and even those traveling to the area with family and younger children will be pleasantly surprised at how much fun can be had there. Obviously, lines might be a little bit longer for some of the fun adult thrill rides in the summer, but truly the wait is worth it because the rides are so fun.

Explore the Berkshires

Last but not least consider venturing out to the western part of the state to explore the Berkshires ! This is one of the most underrated parts of Massachusetts and many locals still consider it somewhat of a hidden gem.

This part of the state feels a lot like other states in New England like Vermont as it features beautiful mountainous towns, hikes that will keep you on your toes because the views are so breathtaking, and of course, charming locals who love meeting tourists exploring their small towns.

Hopefully this post helped you find some of the best things to do in summer in Massachusetts! No matter which part of the state you’ll be visiting or exploring there truly are tons of fun activities that you won’t want to miss out on. Don’t forget to save this post and share it for later! 

You might also like:

• Top 20 Historic Sites in Massachusetts
• 15 Coziest and Best Cabins in Massachusetts
• 10 Best Bookstores in Massachusetts
• 11 Fantastic Restaurants in Newburyport MA
• 8 Best Places for Glamping in MA
• 7 Weekend Getaways in Massachusetts for Bay State Fun!
• 10 Tranquil Botanical Gardens in Massachusetts
• 15 Best Beaches in New England to Visit ASAP

• Students & Group Tours
• Haunted Happenings
• Visitor Centers

• Notable Locals
• 10 Free Things to Do in Salem, MA
• The Destination Salem Radio Show
• Education & Community
• Native History & Indigenous Acknowledgement
• Weekend at a Glance
• All Listings
• Museums & Attractions
• Psychics & Spiritual Growth
• Salem Heritage Trail
• Sweets & Treats
• Restaurants
• Witch Shops & Occult
• Chocolate & Candy
• Inns and B&Bs
• Regional Accommodations
• Transportation
• Map of Salem
• Information Centers
• Salem Witch Trials of 1692
• Modern Witch & Occult
• Hocus Pocus
• The Journey from 1692 to Salem’s Modern Witch Community

Home » Blog » Do » SUMMER IN SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS – DAY TRIP ITINERARY

SUMMER IN SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS – DAY TRIP ITINERARY

We may be known for our  Halloween festivities , but summer is an excellent time to visit Salem, Massachusetts! The weather is perfect for  harbor tours  and  outdoor dining , and you’ll find plenty of things to do around town with Salem’s  museums and historic sites , unique  shops ,  walking tours , and more!

Getting Here

Getting to Salem for a summer day trip is easy! If you are driving downtown, you can find directions and parking information  here . Once downtown, you’ll find most everything you want to see or do is in walking distance (and you could always take the  Salem Skipper  if you needed a quick ride, too).

Salem is also accessible via the Newburyport/Rockport lines of the  MBTA Commuter Rail . A ride on the train is just 30 minutes from Boston’s North Station and a quick ride from points north of Salem.

And another way to get to Salem from Boston is to cruise aboard the  Salem Ferry . The ferry leaves from Boston’s Long Wharf, and can get you to Salem in just under an hour.

Where to Start

After arriving in Salem, walk or take the Salem Skipper to the  Salem Regional Visitor Center at 2 New Liberty Street or the Destination Salem Visitor Information Center at 245 Derby Street. (If you drive downtown and park your car here, the garage above the Witch City Mall will be right across the street, as well as the South Harbor Garage located above the Destination Salem Visitor Information Center.) The Regional Visitor Center is currently open Wednesday-Sunday, 10 am-4 pm, and can be a great place to start with maps, information, restrooms, and an introductory film on the Salem Witch Trials . The Destination Salem Visitor Information Center is open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm. The staff can provide visitors with maps of Salem, MA as well as information on Salem for your visit. The public restrooms are located to the right of the Visitor Center, and are open 9am – 8pm.

To help get your bearings and introduce yourself to Salem’s historic downtown, we recommend taking a tour aboard the  Salem Trolley . Tickets are available first come, first served, in person right outside the visitor center.

Trolley tours are one hour long, and cover a loop around downtown featuring notable locations from the  McIntire Historic District  to the  Salem Willows  and  Winter Island  with lots to see in between. The first trolley tour departs at 10 am daily throughout the summer, and to make the most of your day trip we’d hop aboard one of the earlier tours available.

Witch Trials History and More

After your trolley tour, spend some time learning the history of the  Salem Witch Trials . There are two museums and attractions nearby that can fill you in on the Witch Trials history. From the trolley stop, you can head toward  Salem Common  to visit the  Salem Witch Museum  or continue down Essex Street toward the Witch History Museum.

The  Salem Witch Museum  features a presentation with 13 sets and a narration based on original documents from the trials. Following the presentation, guests can explore a tour of the museum’s  Evolving Perceptions  exhibit, which covers the changing perceptions of witchcraft over time.

Tickets to the Salem Witch Museum are available online for purchase the day of your visit. (If you are hoping to time your visit to the museum to follow your tour aboard the  Salem Trolley , we’d recommend planning ahead and selecting tickets for over an hour after your trolley tour in the morning, as presentations may sell out.)

On the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall, the  Witch History Museum  presents the history of the  Salem Witch Trials  through a guided tour of a recreated Salem Village. Tickets for the Witch History Museum are available in person, and can be combined with the  Witch Dungeon  and  New England Pirate Museums if you are planning to visit all three sites during your visit.

If you being your trip at the Destination Salem Visitor Information Center you can take a quick walk over Real Pirates Salem , immerse yourself in one of the most harrowing stories from the Golden Age of piracy as you see and touch the world’s only fully authenticated pirate treasure ever discovered – including pieces of eight, jewelry, and weapons – recovered from the Whydah Gally by underwater explorer Barry Clifford. Or take a short ten minute walk down Derby Street to The House of the Seven Gables which is open daily from 10am to 5pm. There you will embark on an unforgettable tour of the famous home. Admission also includes Nathaniel Hawthorne’s birthplace, waterfront views, and a unique museum store.

Art & Shopping

Across from where you’ll have picked up the Salem Trolley is the  Peabody Essex Museum , one of the country’s fastest growing art museums. The museum is home to art from Salem and around the world, as well as the 200-year-old Chinese house,  Yin Yu Tang which is celebrating its 20th Anniversary on July 15th.

Special exhibitions on view this summer include As We Rise: Photography from the Black Atlantic, which explore Black identity through a compelling compilation of photographs from African diasporic culture. Drawn from Dr. Kenneth Montague’s Wedge Collection in Toronto, a Black-owned collection dedicated to artists of African descent,  As We Rise  looks at the myriad experiences of Black life through the lenses of community, identity and power.

Since the museum’s expansion in 2019, an expanded garden space is also a beautiful spot to sit and take in the views between galleries. The exhibition space was also expanded, with new galleries showcasing PEM’s fashion and design collections, and galleries devoted exclusively to Salem history.

For this itinerary, we would spend a couple of hours in the museum. Seeing everything in the  Peabody Essex Museum  however, could easily fill up most of a day. If you’re inspired to add an overnight stay to your day trip, you can find a list of places to stay downtown  here .

As you exit the museum, consider doing some shopping around Essex Street. Nearby, you’ll find  Moody’s Home & Gifts , which stocks local handmade and global fair trade gifts.

Down Essex Street is  Crow Haven Corner , Salem’s oldest witch shop offering an array of crystals, candles, books, Tarot cards, and more (plus psychic readings). Nearby is  District Trading Co. , home to unique Salem designs printed on tees, hoodies, cards, and hats with 5% of sales supporting local arts education programs.

And from Essex Street onto Central Street you’ll find  Pamplemousse  for gourmet gifts and accessories, and  Modern Millie , Salem’s local vintage boutique. (You could continue down Essex Street and toward Front Street to find more local shops if time allows. Find a list of all of Salem’s shops  here .)

If you are beginning from the Destination Salem Visitor Information Center you may want to stop by Pickering Wharf, which has a plethora of shopping options including art, clothing, and jewelry stores just to name a few which can be found here .

Stop for Lunch

Summer in Salem means dining outside, so our perfect day trip would include a stop for lunch on an outdoor patio.  Rockafellas ‘ patio overlooks Washington and Essex Street and their menu features something for everyone with seafood, salads, flatbreads, and specialty cocktails.

For sushi lovers,  Koto on Washington Street has a small but beautifully decorated outdoor seating area (and don’t forget to stop into the newly opened Annie’s Asian Mart next door!)

And around the corner on Church Street,  Turner’s Seafood  has opened up a patio behind their restaurant where you can enjoy the outdoors while ordering up their fan-favorite Asian Nachos, raw bar selections, and classic New England seafood dishes.

If you got a little sidetracked, or want to move this itinerary around a bit in favor of a waterfront dinner, Sea Level Oyster Bar who’s hours can by viewed by clicking their name.

Walk Around Town

Walk off lunch with a stroll through downtown Salem. Spend about an hour and take in more  downtown shops , spot film locations from  Hocus Pocus , or embark on a historical  walking tour .

Salem’s walking tours range from the historical to the paranormal, with something for the whole family in between. Get a glimpse of history that would engage the youngest members of your family with  Salem Kids Tours , join  Salem Historical Tours  for a tour focused on the Salem Witch Trials, or pick up the  Salem Witch Walk  from  Crow Haven Corner to learn about Salem with a practicing Witch as your guide. If you are looking for a more spooky option join Spellbound Tours for a frightening and factual experience.

If you are not limited to the train or ferry schedules when you depart Salem, you can also extend your day trip by booking a ghost tour later in the evening, as some tours depart as late as 8:00 or 9:00 pm throughout the summer.

To see more of Salem on your own, we recommend one of the following:

• Visit the Salem Heritage Trail Mobile Site
• Explore the  Ropes Mansion Gardens
• Walk the grounds of  Salem Maritime National Historic Site
• Follow our  Salem Maritime History Walk

The House of the Seven Gables

Continue your walk to  The House of the Seven Gables  on Derby Street (or if you find yourself on the other side of town, consider taking the  Salem Skipper or a Blue Bike .)

The House of the Seven Gables  is offering two ways to take in the history of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s work and the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion this summer. Book a semi-private guided tour of the mansion and head inside the historic home, or plan a Gardens and Grounds Experience and visit the museum’s Colonial Seaside Gardens with an audio tour at your own pace. Find tickets and booking information  here .

Sunset on the Water

From The House of the Seven Gables, walk down Derby Street toward  Pickering Wharf . Here you’ll find more shops and restaurants, including Timeless Life Treasure if you’re looking for a special keep sake, and The Witchery , which offers broom making and bookbinding crafting sessions.

Ahead of your visit to Salem book either a sunset cruise with  Mahi Cruises,   Schooner FAME , or a sail aboard the When and If or a cruise with Essex Heritage, all of which can be found here .

Depending on the date of your visit, you may find live music cruises available with  Mahi , and whenever you plan your cruise you’ll find a way to spend time on the water with Mahi’s friendly crew, full bar, and fresh eats from their onboard grill.

For a glimpse into Salem history on the water, book a sunset sail with  Schooner FAME . While onboard, join in raising the sails, learn a bit of Salem’s history, and experience the FAME’s cannon as the sun sets over Salem harbor.

Dinner Near Pickering Wharf

After your sail and a packed day of exploring Salem, plan for dinner by Pickering Wharf. Adjacent to Pickering Wharf Marina, you’ll find  Finz Seafood & Grill , with a variety of seafood specials and seasonal cocktails.

Further along Pickering Wharf,  Longboards  serves up a menu of flatbreads, lobster rolls, and more, plus unique drinks including their famous scorpion shots (you get a t-shirt for finishing it!)

And just outside of Pickering Wharf, the  Regatta Pub  at the  Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites has a lovely patio perfect for relaxing with drinks and appetizers.

Late Nights in Salem

If you aren’t ready for your day trip to come to an end, we have a couple of recommendations to end your visit to Salem:

On weekends,  Notch Brewing  is open until 12 am (and 10 pm on Fridays), so during summer nights you can visit their outdoor biergarten and enjoy a beer and a pretzel by the water.

Select Salem  ghost tours  begin at 8:00 or 9:00 pm, extending your visit to Salem by an hour to 90 minutes, and showcasing some of the historically significant and haunted locations around town you may have missed earlier in the day.

Live music and trivia nights are returning to Salem, so for more late-night fun we’d check out the  calendar  or download the  Destination Salem app  to see what may be happening during your visit.

Need More Time in Salem?

This itinerary comes with a backed day to Salem, but there is still so much to see and do! With another day or two in Salem, you could…

• Embark on a  Salem Food Tour  and take in local history while tasting your way around local restaurants
• Experience a psychic reading at a local shop like  Hex  or  Pentagram
• Join  Omen  for one of their weekend seances
• Take an evening  Tales & Tombstones  tour with the Salem Trolley (available July, August, and October)
• Pick up something sweet and see chocolates in the making at  Harbor Sweets
• Grab an omelet for breakfast at Fountain Place , or pancakes bigger than the plate at  Red’s
• …and so much more!

Find historic and full service hotels, B&Bs, and regional accommodations to extend your day trip into an overnight stay  here . And be sure to tag  @destsalem  and use  #SummerInSalemMA  during your visit so we can follow along! ❤️

Categorised in: Do , Eat , Plan , Stay

Tags: Brewery , Day Trip , Foodie , Summer in Salem

Recent Blogs

MUM’S THE WORD ON THIS SALEM SECRET

Salem’s Soundtrack: THE RECORD EXCHANGE AT 50

April Vacation is No Joke in Salem, MA 

SPIRITS ARE HIGH IN SALEM, MA

Get Your Free Guide To Salem

Privacy Overview

Fun Things to do in Central Mass

Follow Me On…

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 […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Massachusetts

Day trips from massachusetts.

• Massachusetts to Boston
• Massachusetts to Newport
• Massachusetts to Plymouth
• Massachusetts to Salem
• Massachusetts to Franklin
• Massachusetts to Kennebunkport
• Massachusetts to Oak Bluffs
• Massachusetts to Edgartown
• Massachusetts to Kittery
• Massachusetts to Cape Elizabeth
• Massachusetts to Concord
• 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
• 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. Martha's Vineyard Day Trip with Optional Island Tour from Boston

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

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. Boston to Coastal Maine Private Day Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Private Day Trip From Boston to the Newport Mansions

14. Boston to Newport Mansions Private Day Trip

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

16. Private City Tour of Boston, Lexington, and Concord

17. Private Shopping Tour from Boston to Merrimack Premium Outlets

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

19. Private Shopping Tour from Boston to Wrentham Village Outlets

20. Private Shopping Tour from Boston to Kittery Premium Outlets

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

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

What travelers are saying.

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!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

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.

You may also enjoy reading:

• Best Boston Hotels Near The Aquarium
• Most Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
• Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
• Lovely Things To Do In New England In The Spring
• Exciting Things To Do In New England In The Fall
• Awesome New England Winter Getaways (Even For Non-Skiers!)
• 60+ Things To Do In Vermont
• The Most Incredible New England Lighthouses To Visit
• Summer In Connecticut: The Best Things To Do!
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Time To Visit New England
• 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!

You might also enjoy

Subscribe To My Newsletter

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Disclosure Policy

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of Boston for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Boston without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

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

An email you’ll actually love

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.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor Relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

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.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Massachusetts Chevron

8 Best Weekend Getaways in Massachusetts

By Hannah Selinger

Rolling hills, picturesque small towns, historic places, acclaimed museums, and private beaches: This is Massachusetts away from its urban centers like Boston . In the Bay State, summer serves up ideal weekend getaway weather, and, as of the end of May the state will be almost fully open . Whether you want the Berkshires or the beach for your upcoming summer holidays, here are the best weekend getaways in Massachusetts.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

45 minutes from Boston

Visitors are welcome at the 401-year-old Plimouth Patuxet , the living museum dedicated to the 1620 arrival of the Pilgrims at nearby Plymouth Rock. At the settlement, actors revive traditions, clothing, and customs from the 1600s for an immersive experience. In downtown Plymouth, travelers can also walk through Brewster Gardens , a park that hugs the banks of Town Brook, the 1.5-mile long stream that provided the Pilgrims with their drinking water. Grab a seat outside for dinner at the Rye Tavern at The Pinehills , then retire to a spacious, well-appointed suite at the Mirbeau Inn & Spa ( rooms from $280 per night ).

Newburyport

1 hour from Boston

Founded in 1764, this postcard-perfect coastal town on Massachusetts’ North Shore offers original Colonial and Federal architecture, as well as a wealth of American history: it’s home to the United States Coast Guard , and to William Lloyd Garrison’s abolitionist weekly Liberator Magazine . By day, beach it on Plum Island, Newburyport’s 11-mile-long barrier island that faces the Atlantic (Plum Island is part of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge ). By night, cruise the brick-paved downtown area, and stop in for dinner at the Paddle Inn , a surf-inspired restaurant popular among locals. The six-room Compass Rose Inn ( rooms from $199 per night ) offers working fireplaces in most rooms and a cupola with a water view.

This waterfront enclave on Cape Ann is home to beaches, hiking trails, and historic properties. More than 300 of Marblehead’s homes date to the 17th and 18th centuries, and you can see them by parking at Bank Square and exploring the town on foot. Tour the Jeremiah Lee Mansion & Garden , a Georgian-style home built in 1768, and then head over to the Little Harbor Lobster Company —a century-old restaurant known for its local seafood that has shifted during COVID-19 to a curbside delivery and takeout model. Marblehead’s best accommodations can be found at The Harbor Light Inn ( rooms from $199 per night ), which, in addition to its 20 rooms, offers five full apartments and in-season swimming pool.

2 hours 45 minutes from New York City

Author Edith Wharton made her home in Lenox, Massachusetts, at the turn of the 20th century (her estate, The Mount , is open for historic tours most days), and the natural beauty on which she capitalized persists today. Commune with nature at Miraval Berkshires ( rooms from $1,568 per night ), a 100-room all-inclusive wellness resort that opened—on over 350 acres of manicured woodland—in July 2020. Miraval offers equestrian activities, culinary classes, spa treatments, and yoga. Try your hand at the Red Tail Hawk ropes course, at which guests are clipped into a series of aerial obstacles high in the trees. Or, if you prefer to have your feet planted firmly on the ground, take the resort-led, three-hour-long Beartown Hike , in the nearby town of Monterey.

Vicki Denig

Jesse Ashlock

Charlie Hobbs

Emily Pennington

35 minutes from Boston

This famed Revolutionary War city is known for more than just its battles. Walden Pond , where Henry David Thoreau sought solace from the world, is a kettle hole pond here that was formed by retreating glaciers. Visitors can swim, hike, and boat at Walden and, when restrictions ease, visit the Thoreau House Replica to see how the author lived. Built in 1885 and recently reopened to guests, the North Bridge Inn ( rooms from $250 per night ), with its six suites, is within walking distance to Concord’s Monument Square , and to restaurants like the critically acclaimed 80 Thoreau .

3 hours from Boston, includes ferry

On the west side of Martha’s Vineyard, you’ll find the bucolic town of Chilmark, population 917. Lucy Vincent Beach is Chilmark’s crown jewel, but there’s plenty to do in this rural Vineyard outpost besides spreading out in the sand. Larsen’s Fish Market , a waterfront stalwart since 1969, serves fresh-shucked oysters on paper plates. Thursdays through Mondays, travelers can visit The Grey Barn , a farm and creamery founded in 2009 that sells raw milk, eggs, vegetables, certified organic meats, and a full line of cheeses. Woodlands and wetlands define the roughly 185-acre Wasoskim’s Rock Reservation , which is open for hiking, horseback-riding, mountain-biking, or, if you aren’t in the mood to be active, just picnicking. Retire to a beachy room or bungalow at the quaint Beach Plum Inn ( rooms from $510 per night ), also home to one of Martha’s Vineyard’s best restaurants, and only available to guests of the hotel.

1 hour 30 minutes from Boston

Find Chatham, Massachusetts, on the southeastern tip of Cape Cod . The town’s Lighthouse Beach is frequently named one of the state’s most beautiful and offers a view of the 19th-century lighthouse here. The donations-only Chatham Railroad Museum , located inside an 1887 train depot, features a wood-sided red caboose built in 1910. No visit to Chatham would be complete without a meal at The Impudent Oyster , the four-decade-old ode to seafood (and to laid-back South Shore dining). To stay, book the Chatham Bay-facing Chatham Bars Inn ( rooms from $535 per night ), which has held court on the Cape since 1914.

Williamstown

3 hours from New York City

The place to stay in Williamstown is the 64-room Williams Inn ( rooms from $249 per night ). The hotel’s rustic comfort, paired with its prime real estate—it’s a short drive to MASS MoCA , one of the largest centers for contemporary visual art in the country—makes it a desirable stay in this rural northwest corner of the state. Through October, Williamstown’s Clark Art Institute is showing Claude & François-Xaviar Lalanne: Nature Transformed , the first American exhibit of these French sculptors in the past four decades. For a bite, seek out the local and seasonally minded Mezze Bistro + Bar (dinner is served four nights a week, with a takeout menu available five nights).

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

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!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on July 4, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Overlooked Massachusetts day trips you need to check out this summer

• Published: Aug. 02, 2018, 10:23 a.m.
• Tess Halpern

Kyle Klein Photography, flickr

By Tess Halpern | MassLive

Think of summer in Massachusetts and you might think of trips to Fenway Park and the beaches of Cape Cod, but as the summer heats up there are still plenty of new places to go in Massachusetts. Here is a list of some of the unique spots that you may not have heard of that are perfect for day trips with family and friends whether you're animal lovers, adventure seekers or just looking for a peaceful walk.

Noah R. Bombard

Explore downtown Hudson and rent a bike on the Assabet River Rail Trail

In the past few years, the town of Hudson has become a destination downtown , brimming with shops, restaurants and a brewery. It's worth the trip alone, but you can do one better.

The Assabet River Rail Trail will soon take you from South Acton all the way to Marlborough, but the finished part already connects Marlborough with Hudson. And here's the sweet part: You don't even need a bike. For a couple of dollars, you can grab a bike in Marlborough from bike-share program Zagster. The paved trail that connects the two towns is absolutely gorgeous, winding through woods, streams and fields. Once you're in Hudson you can take your pick -- there's the cafés, Rail Trail Flatbread Co., Medussa Brewing and New City Microcreamery. Or just grab some seafood and ice cream at the Hudson Creamery.

View this post on Instagram True art isn't afraid to scare people #museumofbadart A post shared by Bobby Duffy (@bobbehduffeh) on Jan 24, 2018 at 6:53am PST

See the art that is too bad to be ignored

The Bad Art Museum is exactly as advertised: a place with the self-declared mission to bring the worst of art to the widest of audiences. With over 600 pieces in their online collection and two smaller brick-and-mortar galleries, both with free admission, this strange artwork is easily accessible. You can find collections such as "Poor Traits," "In The Nood" and "Oozing My Religion" on their website or in one of their locations -- the basement of the Somerville Theater in Somerville, MA or the New England Wildlife Center in South Weymouth, MA.

Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism, flickr

Get your adrenaline pumping either rafting through the rapids or zipping through the trees

Ever want to experience class IV whitewater rafting? Do you hate the water but want to know what it feels like to fly? Want the thrill of an adventure, but feel as if your skill set is more geared toward sitting in a kayak for a little while? Zoar Outdoor has it all, with rafting, boating, stand-up paddle boarding, zip lining, rappels and sky bridges all in one place. Spend your day doing one of these cool activities, or get a package deal and make it a two-day getaway complete with an overnight stay. Prices vary for packages, so take a look at their website for details before heading to Charlemont.

View this post on Instagram First #sunset of summer A post shared by Alison with 1 L (@avacovec) on May 25, 2018 at 5:22pm PDT

Swim, fish and test your articulation skills at Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg

Believe it or not, that's not a typo. The lake with the longest name in the country is located in Webster, Massachusetts, named by the Native Americans that lived in the area before the 19th century. But the name, roughly translating to "You fish on your side, I fish on my side, nobody fish in the middle" is just part of the attraction to this place. The lake is a great spot for tubing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, boating and picnicking.

Oh, and you can also just call it Webster Lake.

Kristin LaFratta

Soak in one woman's life work in the gardens of this hidden Boston gem

Next time you're in Boston and looking for a museum that you may not have been to, head to this 20th century building that is home to one of the best private art collections in the country. Isabella Stewart began collecting rare books and manuscripts in 1878 before becoming interested in art. Over the course of her life, Stewart collected now-priceless masterpieces and built the museum that exists today for her art. Her collection of paintings, sculptures, tapestries, furniture, manuscripts, rare books and decorative arts have been standing for over a century and can be found in the courtyard garden or the surrounding rooms. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is open everyday except for Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (open until 9 p.m. on Thursdays). At only $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and $5 for students, this unique spot is a must-see on your next trip to Boston.

View this post on Instagram I want to live in Massachusetts. #adventuringinthebigapple A post shared by Jenn Chandler (@_jennchandler) on Oct 27, 2017 at 11:53am PDT

Get down and dirty in the cranberry bogs at Stone Bridge Farm

This family-owned farm in Acushnet is complete with a Farmer's Market, vegetable garden, chickens, bee hives and, of course, their famous cranberry bogs. Spanning three acres, the bogs are something to see any time of year, but they are especially exciting in the fall when the cranberries are ready to be harvested and the bogs are flooded. The farm offers 30 minute tours for $30 in October where you can learn about the history of cranberries and how they are harvested before putting on a pair of chest-high waders and heading out into the bog yourself. Although this isn't a summer activity per-se, the tours for October are already booking up fast so be sure to check it out soon!

Ogden Gigli, Berkshire Visitors Bureau

Challenge your balance and your bravery 120 feet above the ground

Ramblewild is a good spot for the adventurer within you (as long as you're over seven years old and taller than 55 inches), with 1,400 acres of forest complete with eight aerial obstacle courses. Explore the high wires, zip lines, balancing logs, rope ladders, cargo nets, bridges and more when you're suspended up to 120 feet above the ground. For those that would rather keep their feet on the forest floor, there are also hiking and snowshoeing trails. Tickets cost $69 for adults and $59 for people under 18, and be sure to make a reservation before you go to Lanesborough!

View this post on Instagram Tea Time 🖤 A post shared by Taylor Mae Donners (@7aylormae) on Jan 8, 2017 at 10:10am PST

Stay classy (and pink) with Afternoon Tea

Dress up and put on your fanciest hat for traditional Afternoon Tea at "Fancy That" in Walpole. Clink your teacups and take in the (very) pink atmosphere as you enjoy the classiest lunch you'll eat all year. Dine on heart-shaped scones, classic rectangular tea sandwiches and miniature sweets while sipping on your tea. The menu changes monthly, so be sure to visit again and again for something new each time. Afternoon Tea is $27 per person and only available for people 12 years old and up, and reservations must be made in advance. Don't forget to keep your pinkies up!

Andy Gregorowicz, flickr

Walk along the beaches of the old landfill that are now a scavenger's dream

Spectacle Island is just a short ferry ride from Boston and is a great spot for swimming, boating and hiking up the tallest hill on the Boston Harbor Islands. But what makes this place special is its history: The island was once a landfill for Boston and now, after years of restoration and a little help from Mother Nature, is one of the world's best troves of sea glass and other artifacts. Although sea glass can't be taken from the island, every walk along a Spectacle Island beach is a treasure hunt. The ferry costs $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for seniors, students and military personnel, $12.95 for children and is free for children under three years old. The island opens with the first ferry in May and closes on Columbus Day.

View this post on Instagram This view never gets old. 🎨✨ #inourneighborhood #centralsquare A post shared by Veggiegalaxy (@veggiegalaxy) on Mar 28, 2018 at 10:57am PDT

Take a pit stop in this unique alleyway (no, seriously) before touring one of the most famous college towns in America

The alleyway that is a work of art, Modica Way in Cambridge is a place that shows the true  possibilities of graffiti. This alleyway, identified only by two signs on a short sign post labelling the spot Richard B. "Rico" Modica Way and Graffiti Alley, has ever-changing walls of bright murals and street art. But be sure to go on a sunny day when the alley takes an even more colorful turn as light shines through the plastic prisms overhead that create a sort of stained glass ceiling. Although the small alley may be easy to miss, you can find it between 567 and 565 Mass Ave. in Cambridge. After walking back and forth a few times to see the sights, spend the day taking "The Hahvahd Tour" of the famous university and eating lunch at Alden & Harlow -- an upscale restaurant with a secret burger (ingredients are meat, "your faith" and a house made roll).

Zayde Buti, flickr

Enjoy a beach day with some spectacular temporary art

Ready to take your day at the beach to a new level? Head to Revere Beach from July 20-22 to see the 15th annual International Sand Sculpting Festival. With sculptors coming from around the world, this event is the third largest sand sculpting competition in the United States. An estimated one million people flock to the beach each year to see the three-day spectacle and to enjoy food from food trucks and vendors and other general entertainment, in addition to the New England beach. If you're only going to go to the festival for one day, be sure to choose Saturday and stay for the fireworks display that will light up the ocean and the sand creations.

View this post on Instagram Argus is camera shy but every now and then he's a perfect gem 🐾 Photo by staff member @goodwolfsessions _______________________________________________________ 🐾 • Open to the public for educational presentations from April-Nov on Saturdays and Sundays, 1-3pm and Dec-March on Sundays only, 1-3pm. We recommend arriving early as we do sell out fast. • Website: www.wolfhollowipswich.org • Facebook: www.facebook.com/wolfhollowipswich • Instagram: @wolf_hollow_ma • Twitter: @wolf_hollow_ma • Email: [email protected] • Phone: 978-356-0216 🐾 A post shared by Wolf Hollow (@wolf_hollow_ma) on May 1, 2017 at 9:38am PDT

Learn about wolves while watching them play -- from a safe distance!

A great place to bring your animal-lover, Wolf Hollow in Ipswich is a non-profit wolf sanctuary and educational facility focused on the North American grey wolf. At Wolf Hollow, you can learn about this threatened species in an hour-long educational presentation (described on their website as "most engaging for ages 5 to 105") and then observe the wolves at close range. For the more adventurous visitors with money to spare, there is the option to purchase an hour-long photography session for $150, allowing you to get even closer to the animals. Tickets for the regular session are $12 for adults and $8.50 for children and seniors. The sanctuary is open Saturdays and Sundays from April 1 to Nov. 30 and Sundays from Dec. 1 to March 31.

Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, flickr

Do yourself and your Instagram feed a favor and picnic in these sunflowers

Colby Farm's endless field of sunflowers is a photogenic dream. The sunflowers have been standing in this Newbury farm for around 12 years, and people flock from around the state and even around the country to see this striking view. Be sure to plan your trip around the sunflower blooming season -- sunflowers are in peak bloom around late August and early September. There is no charge to get in and the farm is open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (6 p.m. on Sundays), so there is no excuse to miss out on this spectacular sight. Before you head home after your day in the flowers, don't forget to get some fresh produce or cider donuts at the farm stand.

View this post on Instagram "You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. -- I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. -- Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not." - John Adams.........thank you sir. A post shared by John Rapson (@jrrapson) on Oct 18, 2016 at 1:29pm PDT

See the crypt where two historic Americans are buried

Looking for a spooky trip that isn't Salem? Go to the basement of the United First Parish Church in Quincy, known as the Church of the Presidents, and find the tombs of John Adams and John Quincy Adams and their wives. After walking through the crypts, take a good look at the church itself. Built in 1633, the people who congregated in this historic building played large parts in the forming of our nation. Plus, John Hancock, another historic Massachusetts ancestor, was baptized in that church. For an extra special visit, go to the church on either of the former president's birthdays -- there is a ceremony each year as a wreath is placed on the tomb.

Visit the Museum of Dog, become immersed in modern art and go to a beach part in the middle of the city

North Adams truly has something for everyone. Check out the Revolutionary-era factory turned modern art museum, MASS MoCA, a large expanse of both indoor and outdoor music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater and other art. The 250,000 square feet of open space makes for a dynamic and immersive art experience that is tough to beat, although the Museum of Dog certainly gives it a run for its money. David York's unique collection of paintings and sculptures, rare dog collars and other one-of-a-kind dog-related gems is also located in North Adams. Visit Mass MoCa from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday but Tuesday (or during their extended summer hours beginning June 23), with admission costing $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and veterans, $12 for students and $8 for kids. Purchased tickets are good for two days in a row, so turn this day trip into a weekend trip and check out the Museum of Dog from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. any day or from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday -- tickets are only $5 for adults and $1 for children.

Take this weekend to the next level by planning it for July 14 to experience the annual Eagle Street Beach Party. On this day, over 250,000 pounds of sand will be spread along the entire length of Eagle Street to give you the beach feel in the middle of a city. Visit the makeshift beach from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., or enjoy a margarita (or a few) from 7 to 10 p.m. at the adult-oriented fiesta.

Need somewhere to stay on this can't-miss weekend? Head to the resort-inspired hotel, "TOURISTS," to relax and take in the beauty of the Berkshires. With woodland trails, riverbank vistas, sculptural installations and more located right on the property, a stay at TOURISTS will certainly offer more than just a place to sleep.

Michelle Williams

Be extra careful around the art at the New Bedford Museum of Glass

Have you ever seen a throne made of glass? Probably not, but take a trip to the New Bedford Museum of Glass and that answer can change. Located in the Wamsutta Textile Mills complex and hidden behind rows of antiques are more than 7,000 pieces of glass artwork covering over 3,000 years of glassmaking world history. Everything glass-related can be found in this unique museum; in addition to the glass throne there's photography of glass, glass animal figurines, antique glassblowing tools, glass works from as early as 500 BCE and glass that glows. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 12 to 5 p.m. on Sundays, with admission costing only $5 for adults and $1.25 for children. But be careful not to "break it" when looking at this fragile art, because you definitely won't want to "buy it."

Dale E. Martin

Take Lover's Leap before climbing into The Devil's Coffin

The natural landmark of Purgatory Chasm State Reservation in Sutton offers a more unique hiking experience than most, with trails leading to rock formations such as "Fat Man's Misery," "The Devil's Corn Crib," "Lover's Leap" and "The Devil's Coffin." But don't forget to read about the Legend of Purgatory Chasm before visiting -- I won't reveal too much, but the story involves a murderous woman and the devil himself. The reservation is open from sunrise to sunset, with a parking fee charged every day from Memorial Day weekend through Oct. 31 ($5 for Massachusetts residents, $10 for others).

Find serenity in this whimsical garden of mosaics and stained glass

The picturesque gardens at Three Sisters Sanctuary are constantly evolving as the seasons change and art comes and goes. The large sanctuary is a maze of stained glass, sculptures, rocks and green space and is perfect for a picnic or a peaceful walk. The gardens are located in Goshen, are open everyday from 8 a.m. until dusk and although there is no required fee, the suggested admission price is $10. If you're interested in learning about this unique place and the environmental artist behind the magic but you don't want to take the trip, check out the Travel Channel documentary on the sanctuary, "Homemade."

Plan your island trip around this beautiful tradition so you can take a night walk through the lanterns

If you're going to go to Martha's Vineyard this summer, make sure you're there for Aug. 15. That's the date that has been set for this year's annual "Grand Illumination" where the cottages, known as the gingerbread homes, of Oak Bluffs are lit by hundreds of paper lanterns. This 150-year-old tradition draws thousands of locals and visitors each year, and is truly a sight to be seen. Before the lanterns are lit, enjoy a sing along and concert in the field of the "Campground" and be sure to stick around after your stroll through the lights for a fireworks display over the water.

Envelop yourself in 4,000 beautiful butterflies and go mining for fossils during a day in Deerfield

Deerfield has more than just candles. Take a trip to the Pioneer Valley for a day trip perfect for a kid with a passion for animals. Start your day at the Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens in South Deerfield (open everyday except Christmas and Thanksgiving from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) to observe nearly 4,000 native and tropical butterflies year round. Stroll through the plants and around the waterfall in this 8,000-square foot conservatory and watch as the butterflies float around you and the flowers. If you're lucky and can stay quiet, a butterfly may even land on you. The cost of admission is $16 for adults, $14 for seniors ($12.50 on Wednesdays), $10 for children and students up to 22 years old and free for children under three years old.

After this quiet and calming experience, ramp up the excitement at The Rock Fossil & Dinosaur Shop. Dig for fossils in the sand pit, mine for minerals in the mine shaft, see replica dinosaurs in the forest and pan through dirt to find hidden treasures with old-fashioned sluices and sifters. Best of all, you get to keep what you find. Prices vary for activities -- from free to $20 -- so check out their website for details before planning your trip.

Lee Wright, flickr

Journey to where America began and get a sandwich at Great Harvest Bread Company

If you've ever been to Boston, you know how much history exists in this state. But if you haven't been to Lexington and Concord, you haven't seen where it all began.

Head less than an hour outside of Boston and start on the Lexington Green where the first shot of the Revolutionary War was fired. Although it's not a guarantee, you have a pretty good shot of seeing a revolutionary soldier walking around -- if you hear loud bangs, don't worry. That's the sound of a Minuteman's musket. After touring through the small museums in the historic town, try a sandwich made with bread still warm from the oven at Great Harvest Bread Company or any one of the other places to eat in downtown Lexington.

Hop in your car for a 15 minute drive to Concord and see the Old North Bridge where the famous battle took place and "the shot heard round the world" was fired, and then tour the houses of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathanial Hawthorne and Louisa May Alcott's "Orchard House" where "Little Women" was written and set. As a bonus, only 10 minutes away is Walden Pond where you can see Henry Thoreau's cabin site, a replica of his cabin and, of course, the famous pond.

View this post on Instagram #lilacland A post shared by Debris Field (@jeannetteseward) on May 13, 2017 at 8:33am PDT

Give your nose a treat in this dreamy garden dedicated to lilacs

If a giant field of sunflowers just isn't fragrant enough for you, check out the giant field of lilacs at Lilacland in Pelham. With about 200 varieties of lilacs on around four acres of land, this isn't your typical garden. To see the lilacs of all shapes, sizes, colors and smells, visit this sloping garden any day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. when the flowers are blooming. Specifically, head over in the late afternoon when the farm owner behind the magic says the smell is even stronger because the sun isn't directly hitting the blooms. We have passed the lilac season at this point in the summer, but be sure to take a trip to Pelham in early spring next year to see the flowers in full force. If you're already planning your Mother's Day, that Sunday always falls on peak-blooming season. When you're done taking in the sights and smells, check out the art gallery that's located on the property.

Hike up Mt. Tom State Reservation and finish your day at Fort Hill Brewery

Twenty two miles of trails are available for hikers of all experience levels at Mount Tom in Holyoke. None of the walks are too long making this is a great spot if you're just looking for a quick dose of nature, and some trails have lookout towers offering amazing views of the Pioneer Valley. Many of these trails are available to cross country skiers during the winter, so this summer day trip spot is easily accessible all year round. Open from sunrise to sunset, parking is $5 for Massachusetts residents and $10 otherwise, but it is free in the off season. After your day of exercise, treat yourself to at the Fort Hill Brewery in Easthampton. With 12 brews to choose from in the form of a sample, pint, growler or can, there is something for everyone. Food isn't served but you can bring your own picnic lunch or dinner to eat while you sip, and while you enjoy live music (if you go Thursday-Sunday).

View this post on Instagram One of my most favorite places. #parnassusbookservice #BooksForever #capecod A post shared by Amanda Sharp (@sharp_designfx) on Aug 27, 2015 at 12:11pm PDT

Give your brain a summer workout at this old school bookstore that is literally overflowing with books

Who ever said that summer can't be educational? Take a detour on your Cape Cod trip to Parnassus Book Service in Yarmouthport, an antique bookstore that is every reader's dream. Rare books, used books, out-of-print books, new books and even scrapbooks line the shelves from floor to ceiling with something for anyone with a love, or even just an appreciation, for the written word. There are even outdoor bookshelves under a small overhang where books can be bought 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you're itching for a book after hours, just pick one from the outdoor shelves and slide your cash payment under the front door -- yes, you read that right. Visit during the day and stay in this old school bookstore for a few minutes or even a few hours hiding among the bookshelves and getting lost in a story.

Go to Pittsfield for the usual tourist spots, or spice up your trip with a festival and some delicious coffee

Pittsfield, the largest city in Berkshire county, is a great spot to visit any time of the year. Besides going to the Berkshire Museum to see the downstairs aquarium and the upstairs artwork, the Balderdash Cellars for a wine tasting and the Hancock Shaker Village (pictured above) for your dose of history, plan your trip to Pittsfield around one of their street festivals for a more unique experience. See one of the biggest Fourth of July parades in New England, go to the annual Polish Picnic on June 15-17 for live polka music and polish food and drink or go to the Ethic Fair & Classic Car Show in July where both the Berkshires' cultural heritage and vintage automobiles will be up for display. Whatever you do, don't leave Pittsfield without grabbing a cup of coffee at Dottie's Coffee Lounge -- a high-quality spot with fine food and artistic coffee.

View this post on Instagram Launchpad is a new attraction at Cape Cod Inflatable Park and our guests are LOVING IT! A post shared by Cape Cod Inflatable Park (@capecodinflatablepark) on Apr 24, 2018 at 6:07am PDT

Let your kids run wild in this bouncy house of dreams

The Cape Cod Inflatable Park in West Yarmouth has every inflatable ride you can imagine and is the perfect destination for anyone with kids that have energy to spare. With both inflatable water slides and inflatable dry slides and activity areas in addition to an arcade, there really is something for everyone. For adventure-seeking kids, there also is a challenge zone with taller rides, zip lines, a trapeze and tight rope and inflatable rock climbing. The park is open every day from June 9 to Sept. 3 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with the water rides closing at 6 p.m. Prices vary for the different activity areas, so check out their website for details.

Charles Fulton, flickr

Get a more unique view on your kayaking trip at Barton Cove

Not  enough bald eagles on an average kayaking trip for your liking? An island in Barton Cove in Gill is home to bald eagles that nest there annually. If you're a bird watching kayaker, or just someone who wants a little exercise with a rare viewing opportunity, this spot on the Connecticut River is perfect for you. When you're done bird watching for the day, continue up the river and find a campsite that is only accessible from the water. Stay the night and get a fast start the next day. You know, early bird gets the worm.

Find a hidden gem at this antique flea market

If you're looking for a bargain this summer, spend a day or two at one of the Brimfield Antique Flea Markets, open July 10-15 and Sept. 6-9. Go on a hunt through the one-of-a-kind antiques and collectibles to find your treasure in someone else's trash -- you won't have to dig very far to find something special. Parking lots fill fast with people from around the country coming to this flea market, so be sure to get there early for optimal parking and shopping. Check out these other tips before taking your trip to bargain hunt like a pro.

Explore this neat New England trail, pet the farm animals and enjoy an ice cream sundae

Open from sunrise to sunset all year round, this 1,000 acre park has more than 20 miles of trails to bike, hike and explore, and it's also a working dairy farm that offers free tours on the weekends. Take a walk, pet the farm animals and bring a picnic on a relaxing day trip that's perfect for the whole family at Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle. Meander a short distance down a trail from the parking lot and you'll find an ice cream stand housed in a red barn. When the milk comes right from the farm, you know the ice cream will be good.

Parking is only $3 from April 1 to Oct. 31.

View this post on Instagram 🚣🏼‍♂️🏐🍦❤️ A post shared by Northeastern Co-op Connections (@nucoopconnections) on Jun 3, 2018 at 10:34am PDT

Take your kids to Kimball Farm for the arcade, amusement park and famous ice cream

Kimball Farm is a small amusement park in Westford that has everything, complete with a driving range and golf course, mini golf, an arcade, batting cages, pony rides, a zip line and both bumper cars and bumper boats. Prices vary for each activity, so check out their website before planning a visit. If you're just interested in their legendary ice cream and want to skip the activities, you could also visit one of their two other locations in Massachusetts (Lancaster or Carlisle) or their location in New Hampshire.

Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (updated 4/18/2024), Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement , and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (updated 12/31/2023).

© 2024 Advance Local Media LLC. All rights reserved ( About Us ). The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local.

Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site.

YouTube’s privacy policy is available here and YouTube’s terms of service is available here .

Sam Adams Brewery Tours

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Skiing Near Boston

Beaches Near Boston

Hikes Near Boston

Boston Public Garden

Museums in Boston

Fenway Park Guide

Shopping in Boston

The Best Time to Visit Boston

Weather & Climate

Neighborhoods to Know

Driving in Boston

Public Transportation in Boston

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. 

New England Gay Weekend Getaways - Best Weekend Trips from Boston

Provincetown Gay Guide Events Calendar

How to Spend One Week in Massachusetts

The Best Small Towns in Massachusetts

November in New England: Weather, What to Pack and What to See

Family Vacations in the Northeast USA

The 10 Best Beaches in New England

Guide to an Atlantic Coast Road Trip

15 Best Islands in the US

Georges Island: The Complete Guide

The Ultimate East Coast Beach Road Trip

Maps of Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket

The 12 Best State Parks in Massachusetts

12 Best Things to Do in Boston's West End

The Best Things to Do in New England

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

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.

Sharing is caring!

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!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

You may also like to read

What to Do in Ogunquit, Maine

2 of the Scariest Places in Massachusetts

47 Fabulous Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Things to Do in Lincoln, New Hampshire in All Four Seasons

Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont

By continuing to use the site, you agree to the use of cookies. more information Accept

The cookie settings on this website are set to "allow cookies" to give you the best browsing experience possible. If you continue to use this website without changing your cookie settings or you click "Accept" below then you are consenting to this.

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

E-Newsletter Sign-Up

• Privacy Policy

Summer Day Trips

Animal adventures and drive-in movies.

Head over to Southwick's Zoo early to soak in a full day of animal adventures, with fun for kiddos and adults alike. As New England's largest zoo, you can visit over 850 animals in naturalistic habitats including lions, tigers, giraffes, chimpanzees, white rhinos, two-toed sloths and more. Southwick’s also offers a variety of attractions including the Skyfari Sky Ride, Woodland Express Train, Soaring Eagle Zip Line, 35acre Deer Forest, petting zoo, walk-through aviary, presentations and keeper talks, the Rainforest Adventure Maze, the EARTH Discovery Center, and so much more!  Get up close to the animals at the Deer Forest, Parakeet Landing or Goat Petting Zoo and fuel up at the on-site  Galliford’s Restaurant and Tavern .

When the zoo closes up shop at 5 p.m., make your way to the Mendon Twin Drive-In and secure the best spot in the house. While you wait for the show to begin, grab a drink at Pop's Beer Garden, where all ages are welcome. The time will fly by while you hang out by the fire pit, eating s'mores and enjoying the vibe of this classic American pastime.

A Day at the Lake with Live Music

Webster, ma.

Webster Lake offers visitors a relaxing and tranquil natural asset for swimming, boating, kayaking and soaking in summer. On site,  Indian Ranch is a beach-front outdoor concert venue where you can spend the day cooking out, swimming and taking a ride on the Indian Princess before catching a show. Their local summer concert series has been running for 70 years and has had artists such as Johnny Cash, Tammy Wynette, Willie Nelson, Blake Shelton and Brad Paisley.

If you’re looking for a day of fun and adventure, head over to Lakeview Marine Inc. to rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board to explore the lake for the day. After a day of swimming and boating, you’ll likely have worked up a good appetite. Take the 10 minute drive over to Worcester and explore one of the city’s many foodie destinations.  Stay the night in Worcester or camp out at Indian Ranch to extend your day trip into a full summer vacation. 

Natural Beauty and Farm Fresh Food

Start your morning off with a hike at one of the area’s many beautiful natural spots. Purgatory Chasm  in Sutton is a unique natural landmark that features a hike through 70 foot high granite rocks. Take the trail that follows the top of the chasm for less experienced hikers or children. Dogs are allowed and kids can take a break on the playground by the visitors center.

Check out the many events happening at Whittier Farms, too, including a farmer’s market with live music and farm-to-table dinners. The Milk Store is open until 7 p.m. daily and offers a selection of farm-fresh local products. Pick up bakery-fresh bread, cabot cheese and deli meat to make a quick and delicious picnic lunch.

If you have kids in tow, or a craving for farm-fresh ice cream, stop by West End Creamery  for a sweet frozen treat. Continue the fun with mini golf and end the day with an art opening or cultural exhibit at ValleyCAST , host to many art and cultural events throughout the year. 

sign up for our

E-newsletter, download our, request our, visitor's guide.