Day trips from Boston
From Boston, Massachusetts
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Boston, with its rich history and vibrant culture, serves as an excellent starting point for a variety of day trips. Whether you're seeking the tranquility of nature, the thrill of adventure sports, or the charm of historic towns, there's something for everyone within a 175-mile radius. From the scenic coastlines of Cape Cod to the picturesque mountains of Vermont, these day trips offer a diverse range of experiences that cater to different interests and preferences. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the best that New England has to offer!
1. Cape Cod
Cape Cod is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. With over 500 miles of coastline, it offers a variety of beaches, from the bustling Cape Cod National Seashore to the more secluded spots like Coast Guard Beach. Beyond the beaches, explore the charming towns of Provincetown, Chatham, and Falmouth, each with its own unique character and attractions. Don't miss the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a 22-mile bike path that winds through scenic landscapes and quaint villages.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Cape Cod National Seashore
- ✓Provincetown's art galleries and shops
- ✓Chatham's historic lighthouse
- ✓Cape Cod Rail Trail
2. Martha's Vineyard
Martha's Vineyard is an island getaway known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and picturesque villages. Take a ferry from Woods Hole and explore the island's diverse landscapes, from the sandy dunes of South Beach to the rocky cliffs of Gay Head. Visit the historic Oak Bluffs, with its iconic gingerbread cottages, and the upscale town of Edgartown. Don't miss the Martha's Vineyard Museum for a glimpse into the island's rich history.
What to See & Do:
- ✓South Beach
- ✓Gay Head Lighthouse
- ✓Oak Bluffs gingerbread cottages
- ✓Martha's Vineyard Museum
3. Salem
Salem is a historic town steeped in mystery and intrigue, best known for the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Explore the Salem Witch Museum, the Peabody Essex Museum, and the House of the Seven Gables. Stroll through the charming downtown area, filled with unique shops and restaurants. For a touch of nature, visit the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, which offers a glimpse into the town's seafaring past.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Salem Witch Museum
- ✓Peabody Essex Museum
- ✓House of the Seven Gables
- ✓Salem Maritime National Historic Site
4. Concord
Concord is a historic town that played a significant role in the American Revolution. Visit the Minute Man National Historical Park, which commemorates the first battle of the Revolutionary War. Explore the Concord Museum, the Old North Bridge, and the Walden Pond State Reservation, where Henry David Thoreau wrote his famous work, 'Walden.' The town also offers a variety of shops and restaurants to enjoy.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Minute Man National Historical Park
- ✓Concord Museum
- ✓Old North Bridge
- ✓Walden Pond State Reservation
5. Stockbridge
Stockbridge is a charming town in the Berkshire Mountains, known for its picturesque landscapes and cultural attractions. Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum, which houses the largest collection of the artist's work. Explore the historic downtown area, with its well-preserved colonial architecture, and enjoy the natural beauty of the nearby Berkshire Natural Resources Council properties.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Norman Rockwell Museum
- ✓Historic downtown Stockbridge
- ✓Berkshire Natural Resources Council properties
- ✓Arrowhead, Herman Melville's home
6. Stowe
Stowe is a scenic town in Vermont, known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Visit the Stowe Mountain Resort for hiking, biking, or skiing, depending on the season. Explore the historic downtown area, with its charming shops and restaurants, and don't miss the Trapp Family Lodge, inspired by the von Trapp family of 'The Sound of Music' fame.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Stowe Mountain Resort
- ✓Historic downtown Stowe
- ✓Trapp Family Lodge
- ✓Ben & Jerry's Factory
7. Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine, is a vibrant coastal city known for its seafood, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Explore the Old Port district, with its cobblestone streets and waterfront restaurants. Visit the Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in Maine, and the Portland Museum of Art. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the city's famous lobster rolls.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Old Port district
- ✓Portland Head Light
- ✓Portland Museum of Art
- ✓Lobster roll tasting
Available Tours:
8. Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic is a historic seaport town known for its maritime heritage and cultural attractions. Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum, the largest maritime museum in the United States, and the Mystic Aquarium. Explore the charming downtown area, with its unique shops and restaurants, and don't miss the Mystic River, which offers opportunities for boating and fishing.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Mystic Seaport Museum
- ✓Mystic Aquarium
- ✓Historic downtown Mystic
- ✓Mystic River
9. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is a coastal city known for its Gilded Age mansions, stunning beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Cliff Walk, a scenic trail that offers views of the ocean and the famous mansions. Explore the Newport Mansions, including the Breakers and the Elms, and don't miss the Newport Art Museum. The city also offers a variety of shops and restaurants to enjoy.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Cliff Walk
- ✓Newport Mansions
- ✓Newport Art Museum
- ✓Beaches and water activities
10. Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock is a picturesque town known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and natural beauty. Visit the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, which offers hiking trails and scenic views. Explore the historic downtown area, with its charming shops and restaurants, and don't miss the Billings Farm & Museum, a working dairy farm that offers a glimpse into rural life in the 19th century.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
- ✓Historic downtown Woodstock
- ✓Billings Farm & Museum
- ✓Covered bridges
11. Nantucket
Nantucket is an island known for its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and rich maritime history. Take a ferry from Hyannis and explore the island's cobblestone streets, historic homes, and charming shops. Visit the Nantucket Whaling Museum, the Nantucket Historical Association, and the Sconset Bluff Walk. Don't miss the opportunity to relax on one of the island's many beaches.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Nantucket Whaling Museum
- ✓Nantucket Historical Association
- ✓Sconset Bluff Walk
- ✓Beaches and water activities
12. North Conway, New Hampshire
North Conway is a scenic town in the White Mountains, known for its outdoor activities and natural beauty. Visit the Diana's Baths waterfalls, the North Conway Scenic Railroad, and the Mount Washington Valley. Explore the charming downtown area, with its unique shops and restaurants, and don't miss the Story Land amusement park, a family-friendly attraction with rides and shows.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Diana's Baths waterfalls
- ✓North Conway Scenic Railroad
- ✓Mount Washington Valley
- ✓Story Land amusement park
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