Boston is a vibrant and historic vacation spot identified for its colonial structure, prestigious universities, and seafood delicacies. But the allure of Boston doesn’t finish with its metropolis limits.
The surrounding areas are crammed with pure magnificence, small cities, thrilling cities, and landmarks that make for excellent adventures exterior the town.
So let’s discover among the greatest day journeys from Boston!
Best Day Trips From Boston
Everything on our checklist is underneath 3 hours one-way. While you’ll be able to actually go additional than that and discover some unimaginable locations, we wished to share precise day journeys from Boston that you would get to, spend time at, and get again in 10 hours or much less.
1. Lexington & Concord
One-Way Travel Time – 30 min
Lexington and Concord are two historic cities only a brief drive from Boston. They performed a major position within the American Revolution and are well-known for the battles that came about there in April 1775.
If you’re planning a go to to Lexington and Concord, one factor you shouldn’t miss is the Battle Road Trail.
The Battle Road Trail is a 5-mile path connecting the vast majority of the vital historic websites in each cities, together with the place Paul Revere was captured and Old North Bridge.
Wandering alongside the path is a good way to study concerning the historical past of the American Revolution and the way it impacted these two cities.
2. Salem
One-Way Travel Time – 40 min
Salem is a vibrant metropolis that pulls guests worldwide. It is greatest identified for its notorious Salem Witch Trials of 1692, but it surely additionally has an interesting maritime historical past.
While there’s a lot to suggest associated to the witch trials, we recommend including a ghost tour to the tip of your day. Salem has a protracted and spooky historical past; many guests come to the city to study its cursed previous.
During the tour, you’ll be able to go to a few of Salem’s most haunted areas, together with Old Burying Point Cemetery and the Witch House. All the whereas, a educated information can be offering ghostly legends and folklore related to the websites.
Whether you imagine within the paranormal or are simply in search of a enjoyable and spooky expertise, a ghost tour is a should.
3. Gloucester
One-Way Travel Time – 50 min
As the US’s oldest fishing port, Gloucester doesn’t sound all that thrilling for a day journey. But this coastal city is wealthy with maritime historical past, has unimaginable seashores, and recent seafood to chow down on that was caught the identical day.
Top of your checklist when in Gloucester ought to be taking a whale-watching tour. Off the coast of Massachusetts is without doubt one of the greatest locations on the planet to see whales of their pure habitat, and a number of other corporations provide excursions from the harbor.
During the summer season, you’ll be able to head out to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary to see humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, and different marine wildlife. All the whereas, you might be studying concerning the whales from naturalists enthusiastic about wildlife.
During our tour, we spent high quality time with a 3-year-old juvenile humpback who acquired so near the boat I couldn’t get him all in a digicam body!
4. Newburyport
One-Way Travel Time – 50 min
With stunning historic structure, a picturesque harbor, and a quaint downtown space, Newburyport is the right place to move for the day.
The metropolis has the perfect of the whole lot concerning coastal New England. It has loads of unimaginable seafood eating places, retailers, and galleries to browse. But it additionally has loads of out of doors actions if you wish to expertise boating, fishing, and even beachcombing.
While in Newburyport, cease by the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge just some miles exterior the town.
The refuge affords a variety of out of doors actions, together with mountain climbing, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. During a go to, search for deer, foxes, coyotes, and numerous chook species that might be residents or migratory, depending on once you go to.
5. Rockport
One-Way Travel Time – 55 min
Rockport is a small coastal city with quaint New England allure that’s surrounded by stunning seashores and rocky shorelines.
The city has fairly the artwork scene, with a number of galleries and studios showcasing native artists’ work in numerous codecs. One of probably the most painted and photographed locations on the town (and the entire US) is the crimson fishing shack generally known as Motif #1.
While on the town, stroll alongside Bearskin Neck, the slender stretch of land that juts out into the harbor.
This stretch is crammed with charming retailers, artwork galleries, and eating places and affords stunning ocean views. It can also be the place you will see that Motif #1.
And once you want a break, cease for a candy deal with on the cute Ice Cream Store.
6. Plymouth
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 15 min
Located on the coast, Plymouth is known for being the location of the primary everlasting English settlement in North America, established by the Pilgrims in 1620.
There is loads of historic significance within the metropolis to expertise, from Plymouth Rock to Burial Hill Cemetery.
While we expect you must actually see these issues, we will even counsel you not miss the Mayflower II.
The Mayflower II is a full-scale reproduction of the unique Mayflower, the ship that transported the Pilgrims to the New World.
The reproduction was constructed within the Nineteen Fifties in England and sailed throughout the Atlantic to the US, the place it has been on show ever since.
You can board the ship and study what life was like for the Pilgrims throughout their journey to America. The boat is furnished with reproduction interval objects and displays, and there are guides readily available to share the historical past and tales of the Pilgrims.
7. Old Sturbridge Village
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 15 min
Old Sturbridge Village is a dwelling historical past museum that recreates a rural New England village from the 1830s and gives a glimpse into each day life throughout this era.
The village covers over 200 acres and contains greater than 40 historic buildings. This contains properties, retailers, farm buildings, and extra which have all been fastidiously recreated to offer you an genuine expertise.
The workers portrays villagers and demonstrates conventional crafts and expertise, like blacksmithing, woodworking, and textiles.
Take a while to speak to those costumed interpreters, as they’ll present attention-grabbing insights and reply all of your burning questions on what life was like throughout the 1800s.
8. Falmouth
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 55 min
On the southwestern tip of Cape Cod, Falmouth has stunning seashores, historic landmarks just like the Nobska Lighthouse, and scenic nature trails.
While there’s lots to maintain you busy on this quaint city, we recommend you discover the Shining Sea Bikeway. This 10.7-mile paved path winds its method by means of among the most scenic areas of Falmouth.
Following alongside a former railroad line, the path passes by saltwater marshes, wooded areas, seashores, and affords breathtaking views of the ocean in spots alongside the best way.
You can lease a motorcycle from one of many native retailers or convey your individual and spend the day leisurely pedaling alongside the path.
9. Provincetown
One-Way Travel Time – 2 hours, 35 min
Like our final suggestion, Provincetown can also be situated on Cape Cod. Nearly on reverse ends from one another, this picturesque city is situated on the northeastern tip as a substitute.
You can’t come to a spot like Provincetown and never hit the seashore.
When we consider iconic seashores in New England, we image sand dunes, patches of tall grass blowing within the breeze, and picket picket fences. You will definitely discover that right here, with Race Point Beach being a well-liked selection.
But if you wish to discover a quieter location, there are 45 miles of seashores to select from. So whether or not you wish to be within the coronary heart of all of the motion or quietly loosen up with an excellent e book in solitude, there can be a spot for you.
10. Martha’s Vineyard
One-Way Travel Time – 3 hours (give or take attributable to ferry journey)
Martha’s Vineyard is a well known island simply off Cape Cod’s coast. With gorgeous seashores, charming cities, and a laid-back ambiance, Martha’s Vineyard is a well-liked vacation spot for guests worldwide.
We counsel heading to Oak Bluffs, the place you will see that colourful Victorian-style properties and quaint retailers.
Wander by means of the city and admire the charming gingerbread cottages adorned with intricate particulars and colours.
See the historic Flying Horses Carousel, the nation’s oldest repeatedly working platform carousel, which dates again to 1884. The carousel options hand-carved horses, a standard band organ, and a brass ring recreation that has entertained riders for over a century.
Day Trips From Boston To Maine
Let’s transfer on from Massachusetts and discuss among the greatest day journeys from Boston to cities in Maine.
11. York, Maine
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 10 min
York in southern Maine has some nice historic websites to take a look at on a day journey.
Head to the York Historic District, which options a number of well-preserved buildings from the 18th and Nineteenth centuries. Stop by the oldest church within the state or the Old York Gaol (jail).
A go to to see the Nubble Lighthouse can also be so as. This picturesque lighthouse is taken into account some of the photographed lighthouses within the US.
As the lighthouse sits on a small rocky island simply off the coast, you can not truly go to the lighthouse. But from Sohier Park, you’ll be able to study extra about it and absorb some epic views.
12. Ogunquit, Maine
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 20 min
Ogunquit is an enthralling city with picturesque seashores, many cute restaurant spots, and a thriving arts scene.
One factor you must do when in Ogunquit is stroll on the Marginal Way. The Marginal Way is a scenic footpath that winds alongside the rocky shoreline between Ogunquit and neighboring Perkins Cove.
The path is simply over a mile lengthy and affords breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, with loads of spots to sit down and take within the surroundings alongside the best way. It is a good way to expertise the pure fantastic thing about Ogunquit and is beautiful throughout dawn and sundown.
And in the event you stroll all the best way to Perkins Cove, you’ll have a further alternative to spend time in a quaint coastal city.
13. Portland, Maine
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 50 min
Portland is a coastal metropolis identified for its Old Port district, historic structure, and culinary scene.
If you wish to absorb some historical past, wander the Portland Freedom Trail. This self-guided path takes you previous greater than 10 areas used as a part of the Underground Railroad to maneuver enslaved folks to Canada from Maine secretly.
We counsel you go to the Portland Head Light.
Located in Cape Elizabeth, just some miles south of downtown Portland, this lighthouse dates again to 1791. It is the oldest lighthouse in Maine.
Unlike the Nubble Lighthouse in York mentioned above, this one is a part of the mainland and could be seen up shut. Stop by the museum on a go to.
Or discover Fort Wiliams Park, the place the lighthouse sits. The park is almost 100 acres and has lots to do, from mountain climbing to beachcombing to discovering a quiet spot to folks watch.
Best Day Trips From Boston To Rhode Island
Rhode Island is near Massachusetts, and a number of other locations within the state make our checklist of greatest day journeys from Boston.
14. Providence, Rhode Island
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 35 min
Providence is the capital metropolis of Rhode Island and has historic allure and prestigious universities.
If you wish to go to college campuses, Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) are situated right here.
Head to the RISD museum. It options greater than 100,000 artworks from around the globe, together with historical artwork, up to date artwork, and ornamental artwork. The museum additionally affords workshops and academic applications.
If you’ll be able to time your go to proper, we will’t counsel visiting WaterFire after darkish sufficient.
WaterFire is an artwork set up that includes a sequence of bonfires lit on the rivers, accompanied by music, artwork, and meals distributors. It is held each couple of weeks over the summer season months and attracts guests from all around the area.
15. Bristol, Rhode Island
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 50 min
Bristol is only a brief drive from Providence, so you’ll be able to most likely match them right into a single journey. You will wish to head right here for its quaint New England really feel.
One factor to do on a go to to Bristol is to discover the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum. This historic property was constructed within the late Nineteenth century and incorporates a gorgeous mansion surrounded by acres of fantastically landscaped gardens and wooded trails.
Take a guided tour of the mansion to study concerning the lives of the household who lived there and the historical past of the property itself. The gardens are a real oasis, with numerous plant species and gorgeous views of Narragansett Bay.
16. Newport, Rhode Island
One-Way Travel Time – 2 hours
With historic mansions, scenic ocean views, and wealthy crusing heritage, Newport needed to make our checklist.
On a go to to Newport, visiting the well-known Newport Mansions is a should.
These grand estates had been constructed throughout the Gilded Age of the late Nineteenth century by rich industrialists and are actually open to the general public for excursions.
The most well-known of those mansions embody The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms, all of that are situated alongside the scenic Cliff Walk.
You can marvel on the opulent interiors, expansive gardens, and breathtaking ocean views that make these mansions true American treasures.
Also learn: Unusual and Cool Things to Do in Boston
17. Jamestown, Rhode Island
One-Way Travel Time – 2 hours, 15 min
One of probably the most historic cities in Rhode Island and well-known for its beautiful outdated structure, Jamestown is situated in Narragansett Bay.
While on the town, we recommend you head to Beavertail State Park. The park is on the southern tip of Conanicut Island and affords unimaginable views of the Atlantic Ocean.
You can discover the rocky shoreline, hike on the paths, or have a picnic. One of the park’s highlights is the historic lighthouse, the third oldest within the US.
When completed on the park, swing by the Jamestown windmill. Built in 1787, it was in operation for over 100 years and remains to be in working situation.
Boston Day Trips To New Hampshire
Up subsequent are a number of locations in New Hampshire that we all know you gained’t remorse visiting.
18. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 5 min
Portsmouth is a coastal metropolis identified for its wealthy historical past, scenic waterfront, and vibrant cultural scene.
One factor to do on a go to to Portsmouth is to go to the Strawbery Banke Museum. This dwelling historical past museum showcases the lives of Portsmouth residents from the late 1600s to the mid-1900s.
You can discover greater than 30 historic buildings, together with properties, retailers, and gardens, which have been restored to their authentic situation. Costumed interpreters convey the previous to life, demonstrating conventional crafts and trades and sharing tales about those that lived and labored within the space.
Strawbery Banke Museum is a novel and immersive expertise that gives an interesting glimpse into Portsmouth’s historical past and heritage.
19. Concord, New Hampshire
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 10 min
Concord is the capital metropolis of New Hampshire, situated within the coronary heart of the state.
There is lots to do right here, like go to the New Hampshire Historical Society Museum to study concerning the state’s historical past. Or, if you wish to get out in nature, you’ll be able to kayak down the Merrimack River or hike within the forested Winant Park.
We counsel you go to the New Hampshire State House. This gorgeous Greek revival-style constructing was accomplished in 1819 and is without doubt one of the oldest state capitol buildings within the US.
The State House options a fantastic dome, spectacular art work, and thrilling displays. You can take a guided tour to study concerning the historical past of the constructing and its significance to New Hampshire’s political previous.
It is undoubtedly the right cease for historical past buffs and structure lovers.
20. Canterbury Shaker Village, New Hampshire
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 25 min
Canterbury Shaker Village was as soon as dwelling to a Shaker spiritual group. It is now a dwelling museum and standard vacationer vacation spot that permits guests to expertise Shaker life and tradition.
You can discover the various historic buildings on the grounds, together with the 1792 Meeting House, the 1823 Schoolhouse, and the 1837 Bee House, by yourself or on a guided tour.
Guides present perception into the each day lifetime of the Shakers, sharing information concerning the group and demonstrating crafts like broom-making.
The village options displays showcasing the Shakers’ distinctive structure, furnishings, and creative creations.
21. Littleton, New Hampshire (& White Mountains)
One-Way Travel Time – 2 hours, 30 min
You can’t say a lot about Littleton aside from it’s quintessential New England. With an cute Main Street, a close-by coated bridge, and a grist mill, you actually can’t get far more excellent by way of what you count on to see within the Northeast.
The quaint downtown space is lined with historic brick buildings that home numerous retailers, eating places, and galleries. It can also be dwelling to the well-known Chutters sweet retailer, which boasts the world’s longest sweet counter.
Be looking out for the Pollyanna statue, which honors the beloved youngsters’s e book character created by Littleton native Eleanor H Porter.
If you go to within the fall, heading to the White Mountains is necessary. The colourful leaves are insane and a top-rated attraction that brings guests from locations far and vast.
At all occasions of the 12 months, the White Mountains are crammed with the magical pure fantastic thing about peaks, valleys, waterfalls, and forests. And it’s dwelling to quite a few mountain climbing trails, together with a piece of the well-known Appalachian Trail.
Day Trips From Boston To Connecticut
And final however actually not least are day journeys from Boston to Connecticut.
22. Hartford, Connecticut
One-Way Travel Time – 1 hour, 45 min
Located within the heart of the state is the capital metropolis of Hartford. With a lot historical past, stunning metropolis parks, and the oldest public artwork museum within the US, it’s a nice metropolis to go to for a bit.
We suggest popping by the Mark Twain House and Museum.
This historic web site was the house of the well-known American writer Mark Twain from 1874 to 1891, and the place he wrote a few of his most well-known works, comparable to “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
Take a guided tour of the home and study Twain’s life and his work, and see most of the furnishings and private objects that belonged to him and his household.
23. Mystic, Connecticut
One-Way Travel Time – 2 hours, 15 min
Located on the coast in southeastern Connecticut, Mystic is well known for its maritime historical past and small-town allure. Or you may realize it from the film “Mystic Pizza” with Julia Roberts.
Because of the film, most guests get pleasure from a cease at Mystic Pizza. While this wasn’t the place the precise film was filmed, the restaurant pays homage to the film, and the pizza is fairly good too.
After choosing up a slice, make your technique to Mystic Seaport Museum.
The museum incorporates a recreated Nineteenth-century seafaring village and dealing shipyard, the place you’ll be able to study concerning the historical past of maritime life in New England.
You can have the chance to see the final picket whale ship on the planet, the Charles W. Morgan. And see demonstrations of conventional maritime crafts comparable to blacksmithing, coopering, and sailmaking.
24. Essex, Connecticut
One-Way Travel Time – 2 hours, 20 min
Essex is dwelling to a pleasant Main Street lined with fantastically preserved colonial and Victorian-era properties and buildings.
After strolling down Main Street, cease on the Connecticut River Museum. The museum showcases the historical past of the Connecticut River and its affect on the encircling area.
It options displays on the river’s ecology, wildlife, historical past, and a set of boats and artifacts associated to the river’s previous.
Then e book a scenic cruise on the Connecticut River itself. The museum and a number of other different choices provide guided boat excursions on the longest river in New England. Enjoy the encircling countryside whereas in search of wildlife like eagles and ospreys.
25. New Haven, Connecticut
One-Way Travel Time – 2 hours, 30 min
Last however not least is New Haven. Known because the “cultural capital of Connecticut,” the town has loads of museums, theaters, festivals, and unbelievable delicacies to maintain you busy.
If you didn’t get sufficient pizza in Mystic, then that is the place to go. The metropolis even has its personal fashion of pizza known as the “apizza.” While we now have but to attempt it ourselves, this thin-crusted pizza baked in a wood-fired brick oven sounds divine.
While in New Haven, drop by the famend Yale University.
One of the US’s oldest and most distinguished establishments is Yale University, based in 1701. Its campus is dwelling to a number of iconic landmarks and buildings, together with the Gothic-style Sterling Memorial Library and the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library.
You may also stroll by means of the gorgeous courtyards and gardens of the campus and discover the Yale University Art Gallery, one of many nation’s most distinguished artwork museums.
Conclusion – 25 Best Day Trips From Boston
Boston is a unbelievable metropolis to spend time in, but it surely additionally serves as a wonderful start line for exploring the encircling area.
Whether you’re in search of a soothing day by the seashore, a hike by means of the mountains, or a stroll by means of a quaint New England city, you’ll discover loads of choices inside simple attain of the town.
So when planning probably the greatest day journeys from Boston, think about one of many locations talked about right here. And put together to have an unforgettable journey!
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Jenny & John run Traveling In Focus.