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Home » North America » USA » 12 AMAZING Day Trips to Take From Boston!

12 AMAZING Day Trips to Take From Boston!

Boston is a fantastic destination that offers an incredible blend of old and new. But, it doesn’t stop at the city limits. Boston is within easy access of some of New England’s best destinations .

Once you’ve explored all that the city has to offer, you can set off for adventures to other nearby towns on day trips from Boston. Explore up and down the coast where you’ll discover quaint seaside villages, towns and historic settings of momentous events. The suburbs and towns on the fringe of the city are charming, welcoming and absolutely worth making time for during your visit.

If you’re exploring the city and are keen to venture a little further afield, this list of the best day trips in Boston will give you plenty to choose from, all within two and a half hours of the city!

boston day trip reddit

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Getting Around Boston, and Beyond

Half-day trips from boston, full-day trips from boston, final thoughts.

The impressive city of Boston is easy to navigate , with plenty of ways to get where you need to be. Of course, like in most big cities, driving in the downtown area comes with challenges like the traffic and parking shortages.

  • Most attractions in and around the city are easily accessed by public transport. Look for signs with a ‘T’ in a circle – these will take you to the subway which is great for getting to different parts of the city and surrounding suburbs. 
  • A single one-way trip on the T costs around $2.75. 
  • Consider buying a Charlie Card – a prepaid card for the subway. Load it with funds and top up as you need. 
  • Boston is very walkable. Not only is it a beautiful city to stroll through, but most things are accessible within an hour’s walk. 
  • Hop on a bicycle! The city has a great biking culture which makes it super easy to rent a bike and get around using pedal power. 
  • Like most cities these days, there are a variety of taxi and rideshare options to use. These are handy especially if you’re out past the T’s operating hours. Services like Lyft and Uber are easy to access and use. 

For day trips from Boston, the bus is a reliable and affordable way to explore. The bus terminal is located on Atlantic Avenue – you may need to grab the T to get there from your hotel. 

Other options to get out and around exploring Boston include ferries and boat shuttles to other coastal towns and islands. 

If you find yourself with a morning or afternoon to spare, the areas surrounding the city are well worth exploring. Expect history in spades, quaint towns, and all the New England charm you can handle on these half-day trips from Boston. 

Half-day Trip to Salem

Salem Massachusetts

In 1692, Salem was the scene of infamous witch trials that have since inspired a thriving tourism industry. Just 30 minutes from the city, Salem is one of the most popular things to do in Boston . 

Options for witch trial related tours are abundant. There’s no shortage of guided, walking, and even self-guided tours through the turbulent history of this quaint seaside town. Take it up a notch on the thrill meter by opting for a night-time tour by lantern light – spookiness, guaranteed! 

But it’s not all about witches and spooks, Salem is a historical city with museums and monuments aplenty. From gorgeous, stately old homes to boat tours on the water, Salem has plenty to offer any visitor.

Suggested trips: Hauntings and History Walking Tour

Half-day Trip to Concord

Concord Boston

Just 35 minutes from Boston by car, the city of Concord is a delight of Revolutionary War and literary history. Whether you choose to visit on your own or as part of a guided tour, there’s plenty to check out. 

Revolutionary War buffs should definitely check out the Minute Man National Historical Park, which includes the Paul Revere capture site as well as the option to walk along the Battle Road. You can wander around the vast park on your own, but we’d recommend doing a guided tour for a more insightful experience. 

The Concord Museum is relatively small but still interesting to visit. It won’t take you more than an hour or two to see all the original historic artefacts and exhibits from the town’s history. 

Concord has, over the years, been home to some literary greats whose homes you can visit while you’re in town. Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House is a must-see for anyone who loved Little Women. Equally fascinating and well-preserved is Ralph Waldo Emerson’s house, as well as the Old Manse – a 19 th  Century house that was home to both Emmerson and Nathaniel Hawthorne. 

Don’t leave town without stopping by the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. This beautiful leafy area is the final resting place of Thoreau, Emerson, Alcott, and Hawthorn, all within feet of each other in a spot called Author’s Ridge. Bonus points if you visit during the Autumn season when the trees turn all shades of red, yellow, and orange. 

Suggested trip: Private Excursion to Historic Concord

Sometimes after a full Boston itinerary , you want to get out of the city. Slightly further out are these Boston day trips will take you to Maine’s coastline and Rhode Island’s small towns. All within easy reach, these trips are worth checking out if you find yourself with a day to spare. 

Day Trip to Martha’s Vineyard

Marthas Vineyard Boston

Just off the coast of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard has long been the secret summer spot for the USA’s who’s-who. Anyone who’s anyone summers here on the reg, including the likes of Barack and Michelle Obama, David Letterman, and many other A-listers. 

For a day trip from Boston, Martha’s Vineyard offers a laid-back vibe, quaint coastal villages, and no fewer than five lighthouses ensuring safe passage for ships off the rocky coastline. 

You can spend your day on one of the incredible unspoiled beaches, relaxing away from busy city life. Definitely make time for some delicious seafood with a view of the boats on the water, and maybe a stop past the breathtaking Gay Head Cliffs. 

For something a little different, swing by the multi-colored gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs. This collection of cottages is like something out of a fairy tale and a must-see for the little ones. (Hint: visit in the summer when the houses are brightly lit in the sunshine and look eye-catching and festive.) 

Suggested trip: Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip from Boston

Day Trip to Portland

Mount Hood Full Day Loop Tour From Portland

A drive two hours north of Boston will bring you to Portland, Maine, a popular foodie spot that really lives up to its reputation. Cuisine options include everything from Mediterranean fare to Vietnamese, and locally caught lobster to vegetarian delights. Whether you’re into fine dining or fusion food, you’ll not leave disappointed.

Blyth & Burrows is a favorite local spot serving killer cocktails artfully paired with small, tasty plates. 

Explore the quaint Old Port, with its hilly cobbled streets lined with boutiques, bars, and pubs. And if you’re keen to linger a little longer here (and we wouldn’t blame you if you did), choose to stay in a simple well located loft .

The Greater Portland area is home to the highest number of breweries per capita than any other city in the US. You can try everything from craft beers, stouts, and ales. There are also local wineries and distilleries.

If you’re the outdoorsy type, there are so many adventures to enjoy on a day trip in Boston. Think cycling, kayaking and paddleboarding, lobstering and fishing excursions, and even hover crafting on the bay.

Day Trip to Newport

Newport Boston

Like most places in New England, Newport has a rich history stretching some 400 years. With water on all sides, it was originally the summer playground for the very well-to-do. Wealthy families built the now-famous Newport Mansion. 

Iconic and opulent grand homes have been perfectly preserved, some with art collections that would be the envy of any museum. If you’re a fan of HBO’s The Gilded Age, which was filmed in these very mansions in Newport, be sure not to miss out on this Boston day trip. 

The Breakers is just one of the more prominent of these grand estates and is conveniently close to the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the Audrain Auto Museum. There’s no shortage of historic homes, galleries, and museums in Newport to get a glimpse into day’s gone by. 

Visit one of the many picturesque lighthouses, and take in incredible views from the Cliff Walk. Fuel up at the White Horse Tavern – supposedly the oldest restaurant in America, or head down to Bowen’s Wharf where you’ll find a variety of restaurants and shops to explore. 

Suggested trip: From Boston to Newport Mansions Small-Group Day Trip

Day Trip to Provincetown

Provincetown Boston

If you have the chance to visit P-town, take it! As the oldest continuous art colony in the country, Provincetown delivers charm and character in spadefuls. It’s also a favorite LGBTQ+ destination where absolutely everyone is welcome, and anything goes. 

Situated on a finger of land that juts into Cape Cod Bay, Provincetown is surrounded by water with plenty of beautiful beaches. Vibrant shops, galleries, and restaurants line the main street in town, and there’s usually an event or festival to check while you’re there. 

Provincetown isn’t an island, but it certainly has that kind of festive, laid-back vibe. In addition to whale-watching and hiking, the town is alive with art and entertainment, and food at any time of year. 

You can’t consider your visit here complete until you’ve climbed the Pilgrim Monument – a 252-foot granite tower that looks out over the harbor – or feasted on some freshly-caught seafood. Definitely try the Lobster Rolls – this town takes them seriously! 

Suggested trip: Cape Cod Fast Ferry

Day Trip to Providence

Providence Botanical Garden

Providence is the kind of artsy place you can happily spend a day wandering round. It may be the capital of Rhode Island, but this city is charming and friendly and gives off major small-town vibes. 

If you’re into architecture, design, and art in general, then you’ll adore spending a day in the city checking out the downtown’s incredible buildings. See art deco, and beaux-arts buildings as well as gorgeous late Victorian terracotta-fronted gems. You can extend your stay in town and book a stay in a stunning downtown hotel originally built in 1929.

If looking at buildings doesn’t feed your soul, then the food scene in Providence certainly will. Each of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods has something to feast on, whether you’re looking for light nibbles, casual dining, or something truly decadent and over the top. 

Venture from the historic East Side to the West Side’s Federal Hill, which is home to over 100 restaurants and food markets – you’ll be feasting on everything from lobster to Italian! 

Day Trip to Plymouth

Plymouth Boston

Even if you’re not American, there’s something special about standing on the exact spot where the first English pilgrims arrived in America 400 years ago. It’s this rich history that has consistently attracted visitors to Plymouth through the years, and makes this a popular Boston day trip. 

Visit the historic Plymouth Rock where the Mayflower came ashore, see the Pilgrim Hall Museum, and explore the meticulously preserved buildings like the Grist Mill or the Hedge House Museum.

But even if you’re not a history buff, Plymouth is a quaint destination with arguably some of the best whale watching to be had. Spend time in the beautiful outdoors at one of the many beaches, parks, and gardens, or take to the water in a kayak or boat.  

Stop in for a brew at the Mayflower Brewery or the Second Wind Brewing Company, or if wine’s more your thing, visit the Plymouth Bay Winery or the Uva Wine Bar to sample some of the local varieties. 

Suggested trip: Quincy, Plymouth, and Mayflower II Day Trip

Day Trip to Newburyport

Newburyport Massachusetts

Known to locals as ‘The Port’, Newburyport mounts a charm offensive on any visitors. Not only due to its scenic location on the coast where the Merrimack River meets the Atlantic, but because of its historic buildings in downtown. 

From the Cushing House Museum & Garden to the Custom House Maritime Museum, there are plenty of opportunities to discover local history. Otherwise, the waterfront area is great for a meander among the many restaurants and shops.

The major summertime attraction is by far the many excellent beaches. Nearby Plum Island is a popular retreat. A visit will include great beaches, an iconic lighthouse dating to 1898, and somewhere to enjoy a meal while watching the sunset at the Plum Island Grille. Check out this quaint little cottage if you want to extend your stay.

Sightseeing can be thirsty work, stop by one of the local breweries for a frosty craft beer. Try out the River Walk Brewing Company, the Newburyport Brewing Co., and House Bear Brewing. 

Day Trip to Mystic

Mystic Connecticut

Mystic is a quaint seaport village that fuses maritime history with that quintessential New England charm. From its iconic Bascule bridge to the old sea captain’s homes that line the streets, it’s easy to see why this picturesque town is so popular. 

Attractions here include the seaport, aquarium, and the Mystic Museum of Art. History lovers shouldn’t miss the Olde Mistick Village. A popular fall-time tradition is to visit BF Clyde’s Cider Mill – the only steam-powered cider mill in the US. Grab a cider and fresh donut before setting out to explore.

In the summer months, visitors usually head out on the water for a morning of sailing or a cruise. Whenever you visit, there’s likely to be some kind of celebration to check out!

Day Trip to Kennebunkport 

Kennebunkport Boston

Kennebunkport is the kind of vacation destination that people return to time and again all year round.

Colony Beach and Goose Rock Beach are the two most popular spots. You can test out your sea legs on a boating adventure, like whale watching tours, lobstering tours, and other scenic sailing trips. 

After a day out in the sun, Dock Square is where you’ll find the town’s many restaurants to refuel. Grab a lobster roll at the Clam Shack or celebrate a special occasion at the town’s only five-star restaurant, The White Barn.

Stop in to see the historical artifacts collection at the Brick Store Museum and Nott House or visit the Seashore Trolley Museum – a must for train enthusiasts.

Suggested Trip: Kennebunkport Day Trip with Optional Lobster Tour

Day Trip to Lexington

Lexington Kentucky

In 1775, Lexington was the backdrop to a bloody battle between the patriotic Minute Men and the British army. The scene of the battle, Lexington Common, and its surrounding homes have been perfectly preserved, making it a popular Boston day trip for history lovers. 

In addition to the battle green, you can visit the historic Buckman Tavern (the oldest tavern in Lexington), The Old Belfry, the Old Burying Ground, and the Hancock-Clarke House for a step back in time. 

Visit the town center where you’ll find a variety of mom-and-pop shops to check out. Grab a crepe at Tres Petite Creperie, a fresh bagel from Wicked Bagel Bakery and Deli, or ice cream from local favorite Rancatore’s Ice Cream and Yogurt.

Visit the Lexington Arts and Craft Society or the Munroe Center for the Arts. Both offer exhibits by local artists as well as classes and workshops. 

Suggested trip: Battle Green Tour

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Boston’s rich history and seaside location makes it a popular destination with tourists from all over the world. However, it’s not the kind of place you visit once and tick off your bucket list. It’s a destination that has much to give and many layers to explore.

The surrounding towns and cities of New England make for some truly memorable day trips from Boston. There are trips for foodies, history buffs, beer enthusiasts, and art lovers – truly something for everyone! 

You don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate a day trip to see Newport’s many mansions or spend a day (or night) on a witchy walking tour through Salem.

boston day trip reddit

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mary Beth Skylis

Mary Beth Skylis

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view of brick buildings and flower boxes in the boston north end, one of the best things to do in boston one day itinerary

How to Spend One Perfect Day in Boston, MA (Itinerary + Tips!)

Boston is one of our absolute favorite cities in the USA, and luckily, even one day in Boston, MA is enough to get an overview of what makes the city so special!

We once spent a delightful summer living in Boston, and return visits have continued to leave us increasingly enchanted with the city.

With its gorgeous architecture, deep ties to American history, and impressive walkability, Boston is incredibly fun to explore, whether you have a mere 24 hours in Boston or months to uncover Beantown’s best attractions.

We designed this one day Boston itinerary to help you discover as many of the city’s highlights as possible in a single day–all of which are found along a walkable route!

The famous Freedom Trail, the charming North End (also known as Boston’s Little Italy), stately Beacon Hill, and the bustling Market District are all touched on here, and our hope is that you say goodbye to Boston already excited to plan your next visit.

Here’s how to see the best of Boston in a day!

Table of Contents

The Perfect One Day in Boston Itinerary

What about the freedom trail, where to stay in boston, ma, more than 24 hours in boston, getting around during one day in boston, quick tips for seeing boston in a day, read more about visiting boston (and new england), your one day boston itinerary map.

kate storm standing on acorn street in boston massachusetts, one of the most romantic getaways in usa

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Start your morning in the Boston Public Garden.

The Boston Public Garden is one of our favorite places in the city and the perfect place to kick off your day in Boston.

The garden is quiet and beautiful, and it’s a great place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy a bit of peace in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city.

With only 24 hours in Boston (or less, if you’re planning a day trip to Boston) you don’t need to spend long here, but it’s worth stopping by and makes a convenient starting point.

Be sure to check out the Make Way for Ducklings Statue, put in place for the famous children’s book that features Boston, while you’re there! If you’d like to enjoy views of the Public Garden from the water, the swan paddle boats in the garden’s pond are famously inexpensive at $3.00/ride.

boston public garden in the summer, one of the best things to do in boston ma

Stroll through the Boston Common and enjoy views of the Massachusetts State House.

Located right next door to the Public Garden, the Boston Common is the heart and soul of the city.

Established in 1634, it’s the oldest public park in the USA–though the surroundings are quite a bit different than they were back in the 17th century!

Today, the Common is extremely centrally located, and within a few minutes walk from here you can be in Beacon Hill, in Back Bay, at the Massachusetts State House, in the Theater District, shopping at Downtown Crossing (where you’ll find all the standard chain stores), or exploring a piece of American history (which, of course, the Boston Common itself also is).

The park is gorgeous to walk through–be sure to take in plenty of views of the gold-domed Massachusetts State House while you’re there!

view of the massachusetts state house gold dome with a lawn on the boston common in the foreground, one of the best things to do in boston in one day

Meander through Beacon Hill, one of the prettiest places to visit in Boston.

Located directly north of the Boston Common (more or less behind the state house), Beacon Hill is widely considered one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Boston and is my personal favorite to explore.

This is where you’ll find the Boston that you see on postcards: redbrick mansions, black shutters, a cobblestone path or two, tree-lined streets.

We recommend walking from Boston Common up to Louisburg Square, which boasts some of the most prestigious addresses in Boston (former Secretary of State John Kerry lives here).

From there, take a quick stroll to Acorn Street to take advantage of one of Boston’s most photogenic spots.

Just be sure to be cognizant of the residents as you snap photos!

Beacon Hill is a very residential neighborhood, and while photos and admirers are generally welcome, blocking doorways and climbing stoops is not.

2 Days in Boston Itinerary: Beacon Hill

Stop by Park Street Church and the Granary Hill Burying Ground.

After enjoying a bit of time in Beacon Hill, head back down to Boston Common and pay a visit to the Park Street Church and Granary Burying Ground, which are located right next door to the Common.

While you can see the bulk of the cemetery from the street, it’s a shady, peaceful spot, and worth a quick peek inside (only a quick one, though: this one day Boston itinerary features a somewhat outsized number of burying grounds).

As you step inside, you’ll notice a large monument with a very familiar name in Granary Burying Ground!

Benjamin Franklin’s parents are buried here, and a monument to the family is erected toward the center of the cemetery.

granary burying ground along boston freedom trail with franklin monument prominent in the photo, part of a one day in boston itinerary

Visit King’s Chapel and Burying Ground.

The King’s Chapel is my favorite church in Boston to go inside–not because it is ornate, but because it is so unusual among US churches.

Built originally as an Anglican Church in the 18th century, the church has enclosed “boxes” instead of rows of pews.

Originally, prominent families who were members of the church would have a box of their own that they would sit in each Sunday.

The King’s Chapel still has an active congregation–but these days, instead of Anglicans, Unitarians call the chapel home.

Kings Chapel, Boston

Sample the original Boston Creme Pie at the Omni Parker House.

Think you need to make a reservation and sit down to a meal to eat the original Boston Creme Pie?

You definitely don’t!

The Omni Parker House has a small shop on the first floor selling the delicious cakes, and stopping to pick one up is a great way to sample the flavor without eating up too much of your one day in Boston (pun intended).

If you want to also try the original Parker House rolls (which are, in fact, delicious), then consider following in the footsteps of Ulysses S. Grant, John F. Kennedy, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and many more by planning a meal ( or even an overnight stay ) at the Omni Parker House as well.

Boston Creme Pie shot from above, one of the best things to eat in Boston

Stop to admire the Old Corner Bookstore.

The former home of Anne Hutchinson has acted as a bookstore, an apothecary, a private home, a Boston Globe souvenir shop, a diamond store, and now a Chipotle: talk about evolution!

The building is still worth a nod as you go by, though (and is officially part of the Freedom Trail, despite its concurrent status as a place to grab a burrito).

The Old Corner Bookstore also happens to be set right across from the Irish Famine Memorial–a striking statue worth taking a look at during your day visiting Boston.

irish famine memorial in boston with old corner bookstore visible behind it, one of the best places to visit in boston in 24 hours

Pay a visit to the Old State House and the site of the Boston Massacre.

As the oldest surviving public building in Boston, the Old State House has seen more than its fair share of American history!

This building was once the seat of the colonial government, then became the seat of the Massachusetts state government, and eventually Boston City Hall.

And, of course, it was the site of an important moment in the American Revolution: the Boston Massacre, which is commemorated with a plaque in the exact location of the altercation.

The Old State House has been a museum since the 19th century, after more than 100 years in public service and a brief stint as a commercial building.

As you wander your way through Boston on your way to the Old State House, be sure to note the Old South Meeting House along the way!

exterior of the old state house on the freedom trail boston in one day itinerary

Head to the Boston Market District to browse (and snack).

The Market District is easily one of the most iconic places to visit in Boston, and a must-see when sampling Boston in a day!

Made up of several markets that are found in very close proximity to each other, there have been markets operating in this area since at least 1743.

Starting with the most famous (though not necessarily the best place to shop), keep an eye out for:

Things to Do in Boston: Quincy Market

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Made up of closely located Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market, this is the heart of Boston’s historic market district.

It’s also one of the most touristy places in the USA, comparably with places like Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco or Navy Pier in Chicago .

It’s definitely worth stopping by this historic spot during your day in Boston, but we wouldn’t recommend spending long here (and based on the usual levels of crowds, you probably won’t want to).

front facade of faneuil hall marketplace as seen during one day in boston itinerary

Boston Public Market

Looking to purchase some New England specialties, whether to devour immediately or to take home as souvenirs?

Boston Public Market is the perfect spot for that: featuring exclusively New England-based products and companies, you can pick up anything from produce to donuts to crafts here.

This is one of my favorite spots in Boston–and not just because of how good the ice cream is!

If you’re lucky enough to have your 24 hours in Boston overlap with a Friday or Saturday, be sure to swing by Haymarket (located right in front of the Boston Public Market) to check out a fabulous farmer’s market!

Disply of berries and tomatoes at Boston Public Market, one of the best things to do in Boston MA

Pause at the New England Holocaust Memorial.

Right in between the Boston Public Market/Haymarket area and the Faneuil Hall Marketplace sits the sobering New England Holocaust Memorial.

It takes very little time to walk through–no line, no entrance fee–but is absolutely worth taking a moment to slow down and appreciate.

new england holocaust memorial as seen from the outside, one of the best things to see in boston itinerary

Make your way into the North End for some sightseeing.

Boston’s North End (also known as “Little Italy”, though you won’t catch a local calling it that) is the oldest neighborhood in Boston and a fascinating sort of place.

Once a neighborhood popular with Italian immigrants, today it is more popular with tourists thanks to its beautiful architecture, many historic sights, dozens of restaurants, and famous pastry shops.

Here are a few things to be sure to check out when visiting the North End!

crowd in front of modern pastry in boston north end

Paul Revere House

The oldest remaining building in downtown Boston once belonged to none other than Paul Revere!

Whether you head inside for a tour as part of your one day Boston itinerary, or simply admire the facade as you stroll by, be sure to note this piece of American history sitting in the North End.

Old North Church

And speaking of Paul Revere…

The whole “one if by land, two if by sea” story?

That lantern was said to have been hung here, at the Old North Church (which also happens to be the oldest church in Boston that is still standing today).

You’ll find a statue of Paul Revere on his horse nearby as well.

Kate Storm with a friend standing next to the Paul Revere statue in the North End in Boston MA

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground + The Spite House

Boston’s second-oldest cemetery holds more than 1200 marked graves that include plenty of notable burials from the colonial era… but that’s not the only reason to visit.

Right across the street from Copp’s Hill Burying Ground sits the Spite House (also known as the Skinny House), which is home to one of my favorite Boston stories.

As the story goes, two brothers inherited land from their father.

While one was away serving in the American Civil War, the other brother built a large home, taking over part of the soldier’s inheritance.

When the soldier returned home, he built the “Spite House”–incredibly skinny, and yet incredibly effective at blocking his brother’s view.

The legitimacy of the story is somewhat questionable, but it’s a classic Boston tale.

2 Days in Boston Itinerary: Spite House

Enjoy an Italian-American dinner in the North End.

While the North End is indisputably touristy today, it still serves up incredible Italian-American food… if you know where to look.

Like many iconic neighborhoods around the world, you’ll find a mix of mediocre-to-terrible tourist traps and delicious restaurants here, so it’s imperative to check reviews before sitting down!

We have loved our experiences at both Ristorante Euno and Tresca (pictured below: everything was delicious, but their house special of chicken parm made with vodka sauce was a standout!).

kate storm and jeremy storm dining at tresca in the north end boston with several pastas in front of them

Not in the mood for Italian-American food?

I can’t say I understand, but you do have options!

The Bell in Hand Tavern (the burger is one of my favorites) and the Union Oyster House are both Boston classics that you can find nearby, and Neptune Oyster is another excellent option (I’m not an oyster fan and found plenty of tasty options when visiting).

More into ambiance than anything and not ready to hang up your sightseeing hat?

A scenic dinner cruise on the Boston Harbor might be right for you!

Book your dinner cruise on the Boston Harbor today!

boats in the boston harbor at sunset, a fun addition to an itinerary for boston ma

… and some classic pastries for dessert!

If you’ve heard one thing about eating dessert (and specifically cannoli) in the North End, it’s probably about how delicious Mike’s Pastry is.

If you’ve heard two things, it’s probably that Modern Pastry is better and more “unknown”.

Here’s what we can tell you firsthand: Modern Pastry is tasty (though it’s no longer unknown and getting more popular every day), and the line at Mike’s Pastry is always too long for us to bother with (though we’ve heard from others it dies down sometimes–if you visit in the winter, you might get lucky!).

Looking for something slightly further off the beaten path?

We found the beautiful Caffé Vittoria thanks to my stepmom (a Boston local of 30 years) and it’s now our go-to pastry spot in the North End, with great prices, a beautiful interior, and delicious desserts.

desserts at cafe vittoria, one of the fun things to do in boston north end

If you know of one attraction in Boston, it’s probably the Freedom Trail.

This famous 2.5-mile sightseeing trail covers 16 historical sights related to American history in Boston and it is easily (and deservedly!) one of the most popular things to do in the city.

So don’t worry–it’s definitely on the list!

In fact, the vast majority of the  16 sights on the Freedom Trail  are covered as part of this one day Boston itinerary, including the Boston Common, Park Street Church, King’s Chapel, Faneuil Hall, every historical sight I discuss in the North End, and more.

2 Days in Boston Itinerary: Freedom Trail

By following this Boston itinerary, you’ll spend quite a bit of time walking the Freedom Trail, and you’ll have tons of opportunities to check out the brick markings that denote where it leads!

Rather than simply list something so vague and malleable as part of the itinerary, though, we wanted to be sure to give specific suggestions.

After all, the trail can be seen in any order and doesn’t need to be seen all at once!

With only 24 hours in Boston, you likely won’t be able to tour the interior of each building, but you’ll see them from the outside and can pick and choose which ones to enter.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm in Boston MA

With only 24 hours in Boston, we recommend staying somewhere close to a Boston T (metro) stop that is near the center of the action.

The North End is a tempting option, but it is fairly difficult to get in and out of.

Back Bay or the Historic Downtown area along the Freedom Trail are both ideal places to stay.

The Theatre District (near Downtown Crossing and Chinatown) is another solid option with a great central location.

paramount sign in boston theater district

If budget is an issue, you may need to go a bit further out. That’s not a problem–just make sure you’re within walking distance of a T stop!

For budget travelers not willing to sacrifice on location, the HI Boston Hostel is a great option.

Mid-range travelers will love the location (and breakfast) at the Boston Park Plaza .

Want access to a kitchenette in your room? Copley House features some studios and apartments!

For travelers looking to splurge, the Boston Omni Parker House Hotel has it all: history, a prime location on the Freedom Trail, plenty of ambiance, and of course, the original Parker House rolls and Boston cream pie served right on-site.

Check rates & book your stay in Boston today!

Commonwealth Avenue in Back, one of the prettiest places to see in Boston

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 24 hours in Boston, it’s safe to say that you absolutely will not run out of things to do!

With a full weekend in Boston or more, the first things we’d recommend adding on would be plenty of time exploring the neighborhood of Back Bay, getting out on the water with a whale-watching cruise or harbor cruise , and visiting at least one museum.

Boston is chock full of world-class museums, but you can’t go wrong with the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (the Venetian-style building alone is worth a visit, and the museum is famously the victim of a heist ), the Museum of Science, or the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum (especially if you’re visiting Boston with kids, but it’s fun for all ages).

Things to Do in Boston: Park Street Church

Other fun things to do in Boston include visiting Fenway (or even attending a Red Sox game), saying hello to the penguins at the New England Aquarium, or digging into some of Boston’s hidden gems and visiting quirky attractions like the Mapparium (one of the most memorable maps we’ve ever laid eyes on!).

If you’d like to complete the Freedom Trail, the USS Constitution, and the Bunker Hill Memorial are both a bit further from the city center than the attractions covered in this one day Boston itinerary, but they’re well worth a visit!

And, while it doesn’t make sense with only 24 hours in Boston, if you are staying longer and checking out some of the above attractions, be sure to price out a Boston Go Card to see if it can save you money on your trip!

Here’s our full guide to 55 cool things to do in Boston.

2 Days in Boston Itinerary: Penguins at Aquarium

Thanks in large part to the fact that Boston’s historic core was built long before horseless carriages took over the roadways, the best things to do with a day in Boston are found surprisingly close together!

This entire one day in Boston itinerary is found along a walkable route that takes about an hour in total to cover, though that depends highly on how much you meander in places like the Boston Common and Beacon Hill (and meandering is truly one of the best parts of visiting Boston).

Walking doesn’t appeal?

If so, the wildly popular Boston Duck Tour or a Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour might be right for you.

Things to Do in Boston: Harborwalk

If you want to trim just some walking, or need an efficient way to get back to your hotel at the end of the night, Boston’s subway system (the T) has several stops near this route that you can take advantage of.

If you’re driving into the city for the day, there’s a very convenient parking garage right under the Boston Common that will deliver you more or less right to the starting point of this Boston itinerary.

Alternatively, you could park in a garage outside the city center and take one of the commuter rails into the city (less convenient, but generally less expensive and allows you to avoid driving into the city center).

combination of historic and modern architecture in downtown boston massachusetts

Pick and choose your indoor attractions (weather permitting).

This itinerary for Boston mentions several buildings-turned-small-museums that don’t take long to step inside individually, but add up to eat up a decent chunk of your day (and in the case of some, your wallet).

For places like the King’s Chapel, Old South Meeting House, Paul Revere’s House, etc., we’re assuming that you’ll see each from the outside as you walk the Freedom Trail, and pick and choose which to enter based on your personal sightseeing style.

And, you may be more inclined to spend more time inside museums on a winter day than a summer one!

Tickets generally run between $5 and $15 per adult for each attraction.

Some Freedom Trail attractions, like Faneuil Hall , the Boston Common, and the burying grounds, are free to visit.

Things to Do in Boston: Boston Public Garden

Don’t want to walk? Consider a Duck Tour.

Cheesy? Yes.

Entertaining? Absolutely.

Boston’s Duck Tours are famous for the unmistakable truck-slash-boat contraptions that they cart tourists around in by both land and sea, and they’re very popular with visitors of all ages.

Corniness aside, if you’re looking for an excellent way to get an overview of Boston’s most famous sights and history without too much walking, a Duck Tour might be the right choice for you!

The tours do sell out, especially in the summer, so be sure to book in advance if you want to make a Duck Tour part of your 24 hour Boston itinerary!

Book your duck tour in Boston today!

boston skyline at sunset with boston harbor in the foreground

… but wandering is at least half the fun.

I truly can’t overstate this enough: Boston is one of the absolute best cities in the US to explore on foot (personally, I’d say Savannah is the other city closest to its level, with places like New York , Charleston , and New Orleans also ranking extremely close).

If you arrive in Boston with dry weather and no mobility issues, wear your most comfortable shoes and spend the day hitting the pavement!

You’ll see and experience much more on foot in Boston than you would any other way, and hopefully have a lot of fun as you do.

close up of all saints way as seen one day in boston ma

Keep the season in mind.

Boston is an extremely seasonal destination, with sightseeing crowds peaking in the summer and fall (when the fall foliage is at its best in New England, the crowds are plentiful in Boston).

… but Boston can be enjoyed year-round.

Summer and fall may be most popular, but there are benefits to visiting Boston year-round… as long as you’re willing to bundle up!

Winter, while cold and dark, is a much less crowded time to spend a day in Boston (and it’s much easier on the wallet).

Spring brings temperamental weather, but increasingly longer days and the fun of watching the city wake up.

With a big enough coat and thick enough boots, we’d be happy to visit Boston year-round.

Commonwealth Avenue in Boston MA under a blanket of snow with Boston Public Garden visible in the background

Make your dinner reservations in advance.

This itinerary for Boston in a day suggests having dinner in Boston’s famous North End… and while the experience is absolutely worth it, you don’t want to show up without a reservation!

The neighborhood’s restaurant scene is incredibly popular, and without planning ahead, you may end up finding yourself without a table–or worse, at a tourist trap restaurant rather than a delicious one.

Same-day or next-day reservations are generally all that’s needed on weekdays and/or if you’re willing to eat on the early or late side, but ideally, it’s best to plan at least a couple of days in advance (or longer if you’re heading out on a summer Saturday night and are hoping to nab a table at a trendy new place).

sign for italian cuisine in boston north end, a fun place to go when visiting boston in a day

Planning a trip to Boston soon, and want to keep reading?

You can browse all of our 100+ USA blog posts here , or check out these guides:

  • 55 Best Things to Do in Boston (+ Travel Tips!)
  • 21 Best Places to Visit in New England
  • 17 Fun Weekend Getaways from Boston
  • 15 Amazing Things to Do in Acadia National Park
  • 15 Wicked Fun Quotes About Boston
Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

4 photos of boston attractions, acorn street, north end, public garden, beacon hill. black and red text reads "how to spend 1 day boston"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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10 Best Day Trips from Boston by Train 2024 (Using the MBTA Weekend Pass)

Looking for day trips from boston by train here are 10 amazing options to explore.

One of the best things about Boston and its surrounding areas is that you don’t really need a car to get around, which was made possible by the MBTA and its commuter rail. 

For adventurers like us, the MBTA weekend pass opens up options for numerous day trips from Boston to many towns and cities without needing to own or rent a car. 

I partnered with my friends Daphne and Larry from Our French Travels who have lived in Boston for over 3 years and have deep knowledge of the city to share about their favorite getaways from Boston by train! 

Let’s jump in! 

Day Trips from Boston by Train

10 best day trips from boston by train.

In 2018 the MBTA unveiled a $10 unlimited commuter rail pass. It was initially a pilot program for the summer, but it was so successful the MBTA made it a permanent weekend offering. Now we can all take advantage of inexpensive day trips from Boston by train.

After living several years in Boston and exploring its many neighborhoods , we decided to take on some exploring of the local areas. These day trips vary from cities to coastal towns to the countryside. 

✅ Download the MBTA Weekend Pass to Your Phone.

Salem, MA

Salem is known for its 17th-century witch trials. Nowadays the whole town likes to lean into the witchy vibes, which is why October is the most fun time to visit Salem! 

The whole town is dressed up and they have a month-long festival, which is hosted in the town center. 

There are many museums that will teach you about the very real witch history of Salem, especially the Salem Witch Museum . Salem has more to offer than just witches, though!

Situated on the water, you can take a stroll along the shore. About 1.5 miles off the peninsula there’s a fun arcade.

Salem Willows Park is a great place to spend time. You’ll find many vendors selling comfort food walking around and it’s perfect for a picnic by the water. 

The town center is about 3 blocks from the Commuter Rail Station with the most stores, restaurants, and cafes. You’ll also find many guided walking tours like this History and Hauntings of Salem one!

>> Check availability for the History and Hauntings of Salem Walking Tour! <<

  • Best times to visit: October is the best time of year to visit Salem. The whole town dresses up for Halloween. Every weekend there is a festival and many different spooky tours.
  • How to get there: take the Newburyport/Rockport line towards Newburyport or Rockport
  • Train station in Boston: North Station
  • Distance: 30 minutes

2. Providence (RI)

Providence, New Hampshire

The capital city of Rhode Island is a quick train ride over from Boston. The Commuter Rail station drops you off in the middle of downtown and has extensive public bus transportation though the city is very walkable. Just be prepared for some hills.

There is a river that runs through the middle of Providence. For a quick day trip from Boston by train, Providence has a lot going on to spend the whole day.

A fun thing to do in Providence is a narrated boat tour . This is a great way to learn more about the history and architecture of Providence.

>> Check availability for the Providence Narrated Boat Tour! <<

In the river, you’ll see the metal containers that are used for the WaterFire event.

WaterFire is probably one of the most famous things about Providence. This event generally kicks off in April. The “braziers” or metal containers with wood are lit up. 

Music is played in the background and a group of people in black cloaks light up each brazier. It is a little creepy, but a beautiful sight of the river. These events bring together the community with vendors, locals, and tourists. 

Some other favorite things we enjoy in Providence are the 10,000 Suns sunflower field in the summer, walking up to Brown University , and wandering through Providence Athenaeum , which is free for visitors.

Like Boston , Providence has many great places to eat. Some of our favorite places to eat are New Rivers, Dune Brothers, Al Forno (a great romantic place), and Hot Club . 

  • Best time to visit: Spring or Fall. Since you’ll be walking around a lot I’d avoid going when the weather is too hot or too cold.
  • How to get there: take the Providence/Stoughton line towards Wickford Junction; get off at Providence
  • Train station in Boston: South Station, Back Bay, Ruggles
  • Distance: 1 hour

sleepy hollow cemetery, concord, new hampshire

This is my second favorite town near Boston. The number one thing to do once you exit the train is to go to Bedford Farms Ice Cream for a nice large ice cream before walking into town. 

Concord offers a lot of history. Many famous writers spent time here and are buried here. 

Once you’ve hit up Bedford Farms ice cream, there are great options for things to do in Concord. 

  • Walden Pond: Walden Pond is a great place to spend a hot summer day. 
  • Minute Man National Historical Park: The first battles of the American Revolution were fought in Lexington and Concord. Minute Man National Historical Park preserves this history.

>> Be sure to check out the most immersive self-guided walking tour of America’s history! <<

  • Old North Bridge: Old North Bridge is part of the route followed by British Troops to Boston.
  • Historic Houses: Many famous writers called Concord their homes such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Louisa May Alcott. You can visit these! 
  • Sleepy Hollow Cemetery: Not only did many famous literary people live in Concord, but many of them are also buried here as well. You can visit their graves at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. 

Check out the free Concord Trolley that can work as your “Hop on Hop off” bus while you’re in Concord. It will take you through the famous sites, houses, and Walden Pond. You can also explore concord by wheels with this bike share service .

Concord has many different walking tours . My personal favorite is the “ Chocolate with a History Twist ” . Given all of Concord’s historical ties to the American Revolution and many literary writers there truly is something for everyone. 

Honestly, one day is not nearly enough time to experience everything Concord has to offer.

  • Best time to visit: Spring, Summer, or Fall. Since you’ll be walking around a lot I’d avoid going when the weather is too hot or too cold. But definitely visit Bedford Farms Ice cream.
  • How to get there: take the Fitchburg line towards Wachusetts; get off at the Concord station
  • Distance: 40 minutes

4. Rockport 

Rockport, MA

Rockport is my favorite town to visit on a day trip from Boston. Every time my friends and family came over to visit us in Boston, we’d bring them to Rockport. 

This small town found at the end of the Rockport Line is situated right on the water. When you get off the train there is a map right near the exit of the station that shows different painted paths on the sidewalk to downtown. 

The paths are very easy to follow and drop you right downtown, then you can take them back to the commuter rail station when you’re ready to leave. 

Wait until you make it downtown to grab a coffee or a snack. Once you’re on Main St. head to Brother’s Brew Coffee or Beans & Leave Cafe . From here we like to take our coffee to the beaches to enjoy our breakfast. 

Next, explore downtown and see all there is to offer. There are cute candy shops, fresh lobster stands, and an incredible ice cream store on Bearskin Neck. Once you reach the end of the downtown peninsula you can walk on the beach and water break. 

ice cream store on bearskin neck

Rockport is not known for its beaches which means that they are generally a lot less crowded than Glouscter or Maine. The beaches are also a little rockier. 

There are lots of kayak, canoe, or sailboat rentals if you prefer to be on the water.

  • Best time to visit: Spring or Summer. Being on the coast the fall and winter get very cold and gray plus the majority of restaurants and stores are closed in the off-season.
  • How to get there: take the Newburyport/Rockport line towards Rockport
  • Distance: 1 hour 30 minutes

5. Worcester

worcester, ma

Worcester is the second biggest city in Massachusetts and is well known for its arts and sciences. It’s home to 8 universities and colleges, including UMass Medical School and Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Places to visit include the Worcester Art Museum , with more than 35,000 works of art. The Hanover Theatre and Mechanics Hall both have regular shows worth visiting. 

For history lovers like us, the Worcester History Museum is all about the history of the area. There’s also the EcoTarium which is a mixture of a museum and a zoo. 

Since it’s a big city, Worcester has a great transportation network so you don’t need a car to get around. The MBTA commuter rail station is right in the middle of the city with a bus station across the street.

  • Best time to visit: Any time really. Stuff to do indoors all year round, and a great transportation network will get you there without a lot of walking outside
  • How to get there: take the Worcester line toward Worcester

6. Wachusett

wachusett, ma

Wachusett is a perfect place to visit in winter. You get to go to the mountains in just under 2 hours as a day trip from Boston by train. If you like skiing, then this is the trip you want to take. Wachusett is one of the many skiing options available in New England .

In winter there are “ski trains” that head out to Wachusett on the MBTA that has slots for your skis. In summer there’s one that has a slot for bikes.

Wachusett offers a free round-trip winter shuttle from the commuter rail station to the mountain. You get to go skiing without exerting energy to drive. 

In the summer Wachusett has some festivals and food truck roundups. The main problem is in the summer they don’t have a shuttle from the station to the mountain so you’re left needing to get an uber. I would not recommend walking because it is far and steep. 

Not far from the commuter rail station is Great Wolf Lodge. As a fun activity, they allow people to purchase day passes or ½ day passes to enjoy the indoor water park and adventure games.

  • Best time to visit: Winter for skiing, fall for leaf peeping, and Summer for hiking
  • How to get there: take the Fitchburg line towards Wachusett. This requires a 10-ish minute Uber ride to the mountain. During the Winter there is a shuttle on Saturdays.
  • Distance: 1 hour 40 minutes

7. Plymouth

plymouth rock in plymouth, ma

Plymouth most famously is known for Plymouth Rock where the pilgrims arrived at the “New World.” I will say it is a rock and not really interesting.

But since you’re in Plymouth, take a quick photo of it then move on to see the rest that this wonderful town has to offer! 

If you’re particularly interested in the Pilgrims’ history and settlement in Plymouth, head to Plimoth Plantation , a live museum that brings the Pilgrims’ daily life to life.

>> Check availability for Plimoth Plantation! <<

The main street is a little ways away from the commuter rail station. We took an uber because we did not feel up for the walk. On Main street, you’ll find many wonderful local shops, amazing ice cream, and a scenic walk along the bay. 

For such a small town Plymouth is bustling! You’ll find festivals or a museum on seemingly every corner. There are many lovely parks to walk through and stores with boatloads of locally made saltwater taffy. 

One of the things on my bucket list when we moved to Massachusetts was to go to a Cranberry Bog . Plymouth is the place for that! 

The Cranberry Bog Tours picks the group up, brings everyone to the farm, and teaches everyone about cranberries. Wading in a cranberry bog is such a unique opportunity! 

Try it for yourself. 

  • Best time to visit: Spring for fewer crowds
  • How to get there: Take the Kingston/Plymouth line towards Kingston then take an uber the final way to Plymouth
  • Train station in Boston: South Station

8. Lawrence

lawrence, ma

Located just below the New Hampshire border, Lawrence is a growing city with lots of fun activities. 

The first stop should be Heav’ly Donut for some incredible donuts. After you’ve gotten your fill of incredible sweets, head to the Canal Street Antique Mall for some exploring. You could spend hours wandering the aisles of all the incredible treasures there. 

The city is also known for its incredible building-sized murals, ranging from the music legends mural to the Food for the World mural . Primarily you’ll find these on Essex Street, but you’ll be surprised to find them all over the city. 

Lawrence is definitely a city you can spend a few hours exploring, from restaurants to the arts and culture scene. 

The city is pretty spread out, but there is a bus system that will help you get around the city. The MBTA Station is centrally located, so there is a lot that you can get to just by walking as well. 

  • Best time to visit: A good town to visit year-round
  • How to get there: Take the Haverhill line
  • Train station in Boston : North Station

9. Newburyport

newburyport, ma

The MBTA Commuter rail station is situated right on the Clipper City Trail. This 1.1-mile trail connects from the Merrimack River to downtown. Newburyport is located on the water.

Massachusetts is known for having whale migrations between May through October. 

There are at least 3 kinds of whales and a variety of different sea animals. This whale-watching tour takes you from downtown Newburyport through the Merrimack river into the Gulf of Maine on a 149-passenger ship. 

Joppa Flats Education Center teaches students all about wildlife in Massachusetts. This center offers summer activities for adults and children alike. It has helped band, research, and aid over 36,000 birds. 

My favorite festival in Newburyport is the Old Christmas Tree Bonfire . After Christmas is over the Newburyport firefighters will collect Christmas trees. The trees are piled high and then set on fire. 

Old Christmas Tree Bonfire

There are vendors selling hot chocolate and marshmallows. It is cold before the fire is set, but then quickly warms up. This is a fundraiser for the Volunteer Fire Department so there is a small fee to enter.

  • Best time to visit: Fall for the whale watching
  • How to get there: Take the Newbury/Rockport line towards Newburyport

10. Hyannis

hyannis, ma

While this stop is not on the Weekend Commuter Rail pass it is definitely a must-visit. From Memorial day through Labor day, you can head to Cape Cod on the CapeFlyer . On weekends a round-trip ticket can be $20. 

The mile-long Main street in Hyannis has 120 shops and restaurants, 3 museums, and some lovely beaches. One of the main attractions is to take a tour of the local glass factory, Sandwich Glass Museum . 

Though you may have taken many MBTA train rides from Boston, check out the scenic historic train ride in Hyannis. Cape Train has many themed rides with stunning views.

The day trip from Boston by train to Hyannis is longer than other trips, but it is by far one of the most scenic. Cape Cod is what Massachusetts is known for and is where many people spend their summer. Expect it to be busy in the summer and mostly closed in winter. 

Hyannis is the “beginning” of the Cape which is formally known to include Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. For a longer trip onto the Cape, you can take a ferry from Hyannis to the islands. 

  • Best time to visit: Summer
  • How to get there: Take the CapeFlyer
  • Train station in Boston : South Station, Braintree, or Brockton
  • Distance: 2 hours 20 minutes

How to Take Day Trips from Boston by Train

mbta train

What is the MBTA Weekend Pass?

Back in the summer of 2018, the commuter rail of Boston launched a pilot weekend pass program. This meant that for $10 you had unlimited rides on the commuter rail on Saturday and Sunday. This was a game-changer.

Typically the commuter rail fares are between $4.60-$26.50 round trip depending on the zone. Each leg of the trip has its own variable cost which makes exploring towns along the route very expensive.

After such a successful pilot, the MBTA decided to make weekend passes a permanent option! Now you can purchase the ticket on the mTicket app and enjoy a weekend of hop-on hop-off train exploration!

How Much Does the MBTA Weekend Pass Cost?

The MBTA Commuter weekend pass costs $10. Keep in mind that this is only for the commuter rail. 

The regular MBTA system does not have a discounted weekend price and those will remain the same. If you need to take the train from your local station to North or South Station that is additional to the $10 unlimited pass.

The local subway is $2.40 one way and the bus is $1.70 one way. There is a free transfer from the subway to the bus.

inside the mbta train

How to Use the MBTA Weekend Pass

Using the ticket is very simple! You can either download the mTicket app to get your ticket or purchase your ticket at the North and South train stations. 

If you’re not leaving from Boston’s North or South Station, you can purchase the ticket on the train.

Note: Each person in your party will need to download the app to their phone, you cannot have multiple tickets in one app.

After you’re on board and settled, the train conductors will start making their rounds to check the tickets. Activate and show your ticket on the mTicket app or have your physical ticket marked off–don’t worry it’s still for unlimited use.

Personally, we found the app to be the easiest way to travel with the weekend pass. It’s easy to activate, easy to show the conductor, and hard to lose. 

FAQs: Best Day Trips from Boston by Train

When is the best time to take a day trip from boston by train.

Larry and I like to leave on an early commuter train out to our selected location. Since the trains leave Boston and come back on the same track there is a 1-2 hour lag between each time the train leaves Boston. 

By leaving on the first train of the morning, we get to make the most out of the commuter rail’s weekend pass. 

I recommend heading to North or South Station for the 8 AM train out to your destination. If you time it right, you can go to 2-3 places in a day.

Do I need to rent a car when taking a day trip from Boston?

Definitely not! All these towns and cities are very walkable. You can explore easily and let the MBTA Commuter Rail do the transportation while you enjoy the scenery. 

If you have more time, take a 10-day road trip from Boston to Portland, Maine !

Is the train ride from Boston scenic?

Absolutely! The routes can take you along the bay for some beautiful ocean views. Some other routes take you through Massachusetts through forests and peaceful rolling hills. Not only do you get to spend your day trip from Boston in a new place but you get to go by train.

rockport

Final thoughts: Best Day Trips from Boston by Train

Boston is a fun city, but the fact that it is centrally located in New England means that there are lots of places easily accessible to visitors. Not only are there many road trips to take , but Boston makes it easy to visit the area by train. 

Massachusetts is dotted with wonderful small towns and cities that are worth visiting. You can really explore so much of Massachusetts when you use the MBTA commuter pass for $10 on unlimited trips for 48 hours.

Ready to get started on your day trip? Check out these travel essentials to make your day trip smooth!

About the Authors: Daphne & Larry French are the married couple writing for Our French Travels . They lived in Boston for over 3 years and share a love of travel. They have collectively traveled to over 70 cities.

More related content:

  • 10 day New England Road Trip Itinerary (Portland to Boston Drive)
  • The Perfect 3-Day Portland, Maine Itinerary
  • Best Travel Products

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My Favorite Travel Tips + Resources

Here is a quick glance at all my go-to travel tips and resources that I use to plan every trip! For more information, check out my travel resources page .

  • Booking flights: I use Google Flights to check all routes and find the best flights. Then I compare Skyscanner (for the lowest prices) before I book.
  • For hotels, I go through Booking.com or book directly with Marriott (for points + rewards).
  • When I travel internationally, I’ll book through Hostelworld for very budget-friendly stays.
  • For vacation rentals, use Vrbo or Marriott Homes & Villas .
  • Expedia also has some great bundles for hotels, flights, and car rentals altogether.
  • Car Rentals: I love renting cars through Discover Cars . They have been consistent and provide the best customer service.
  • Trains in Asia: Trip.com has the best options!
  • Trains in Europe: Trainline or Omio .
  • Visa Application: For a hassle-free process, apply for your visa from iVisa .
  • Travel Credit Card: I book all my travel (flights, hotels, car rentals) through Chase Sapphire .
  • Vaccines and Medications: Check the CDC website for updates on necessary vaccines to enter a country, including updates on Covid-19 and recommended places to visit. I recommend getting all the vaccines you need before you go!
  • Tours + Experiences: I absolutely love my tours! Everything from eerie walking ghost tours to food tours, I’ll usually book something every trip either through Viator or GetYourGuide .
  • Entertainment: Looking for entertainment like sporting events, theater shows, or concerts? Book with Ticket Squeeze !
  • Tech : Keep your internet browsing safe, secure, and fast with ExpressVPN
  • Language Learning: The best place to learn a new language is through Babbel as you travel to countries you don’t know the language.
  • What to Pack: I almost always travel by backpack . For products I like, check out my packing guide page for all the things I take with me on different trips.

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Pafoua is the author and creator of Her Wanderful World. Pafoua writes from her numerous excursions about all things travel, from fun itineraries to creating memorable experiences on the road. When she’s not traveling, Pafoua loves a fun board game night with her friends or is snuggled up reading a good book. You can find her on Instagram @herwanderfulworld.

The Perfect 3 Days in Boston Itinerary (2024 Update)

Planning a trip to Beantown and wondering what to do? Keep reading for an incredible 3 days in Boston itinerary!

Few cities are as important in the history of the United States as Boston. In fact, the capital of Massachusetts is known as the “Cradle of Liberty” for its role in the American Revolution.

Those interested in the early history of the USA will absolutely love visiting Boston. And you can cover some solid ground over a long weekend in the city.

In addition to all the historical sights, Boston boasts several world-class museums and some of the best universities in the world.

It’s also a top-notch sports city, with some of the most successful teams of all time like the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics and New England Patriots.

If you’re ready to plan a perfect vacation in Boston, read on for a solid gameplan for visiting this historic American city.

My epic itinerary will take you to:

READ MORE: Check out our brand new, complete guide on the best things to do in Boston !

City Boston Itinerary

Table of Contents

When to Visit Boston

Getting around boston, boston citypass, freedom trail, faneuil hall, finish the freedom trail, back to the park, newbury street, skywalk observatory, explore the waterfront, choose your own adventure, christopher columbus waterfront park, new england aquarium, take a unique tour, hit a museum, visit a brewery, catch a game, museum of your choice, back bay fens, fenway park, jfk national historic site, best hostel in boston – hi boston, best mid-range hotel – newbury guest house, best luxury hotel – boston waterfront hotel, how to spend a perfect 3 days in boston, travel tips for visiting boston.

The first step in crafting a 3-day Boston itinerary is figuring out when to visit. Winters here can be brutally cold and unforgiving, which is not exactly ideal for exploring a city.

Of course, the warmer weather of the summer months also brings hordes of tourists and their selfie-sticks. For a nice happy medium, you may want to consider visiting Boston in late spring or early fall.

Whenever you visit Beantown, there’s sure to be a lot going on. In a city with so many major sports teams, art museums, and a lively music scene, you have tons of options for entertainment.

I don’t know about you, but I always check the calendar of events in a city before travelling there. If you’ve only got a few days in Boston, you might want to check and see if there are any games, concerts, or performances you’d like to attend.

Wherever you decide to lay your head during yours Boston itinerary, getting around the city is a breeze. Boston is a very walkable city and it also has excellent public transportation.

You can get most places in Boston on the metro, which is known as “the T” here. There are also local buses and ferries, as well as a commuter rail.

For visitors, your best bet is buying a CharlieTicket 1-day or 7-day pass. The 1-day costs $12.75 and the 7-day runs $22.50, so it’s actually a good deal even though you’re only spending a short time in the city.

Head here to read more about the various options for getting around Boston.

Read Next: Don’t forget to plan to enjoy some of the best Boston day trips !

Finally, the one thing I seriously recommend is investing in a Boston CityPASS , which is basically a card that gives you discounts at many of the main attractions in the city.

You buy the pass for $64, and it gives you entrance into the following Boston attractions:

  • New England Aquarium,
  • Boston Museum of Science
  • Boston Harbor Cruise or
  • Harvard Museum of Natural History
  • Franklin Park Zoo

If you bought all of these separately, it’d cost $120.65, so you save 45% by buying the Boston CityPASS.

Now that you know a bit more about the city, let’s get this show on the road and take a look at what to do in Boston in 3 days.

Day 1 – Morning

If you want to start your day like a true Bostonian, grab a coffee and a donut from Dunkin’ Donuts and get a move on!

With a nice sugar high and a caffeine buzz, you’re primed and ready to kick off this itinerary.

When it comes to the best things to do in Boston, walking the Freedom Trail definitely tops the list.

This is a 4km-long path through downtown that takes you to 16 different historical sites, many of which played a role in the American Revolution. Follow the footsteps of the founding fathers as you take a walk through American history on the trail.

Boston Freedom Trail Map

The best place to start out is Boston Common, which is actually the oldest public park in the country.

You’ll have to save chilling in the park for later, though, as we’ve got a busy Boston itinerary to get to!

Heading north out of the park, you’ll visit several important historical landmarks on the North End.

There’s the Massachusetts State House, King’s Chapel Burial Ground, the Old South Meeting House, and Old State House, among others.

The latter is the site of the Boston Massacre, which served as a catalyst for the Revolutionary War.

Massachusetts State House

Following the Freedom Trail through the North End on your own is quite easy, as it’s well-marked and there are plenty of informative signs along the way.

You don’t have to join a guided tour. If you’re on a budget, you can just make your own tour.

Click here to download the official brochure of the Freedom Trail and then head here to check out an interactive map.

Those who prefer listening to reading can drop down a cool $15 to download a 2-hour audio tour . Just download the app and purchase the tour and you’re ready to rock.

Finally, you can sign up for an official tour and have a knowledgable local guide lead you around town.

READ NEXT: Looking for more history? Be sure to check out our list of the best things to see and do in Philadelphia !

Day 1 – Afternoon

How long you spend on the Freedom Trail is entirely up to you. Most of the sites are free to visit, but a few of them charge an entrance fee (Old State House, Old South Meeting House, and Paul Revere House).

Some people like to linger and read all the information, while others prefer to breeze through and snap a photo or two. Personally, we spent about three hours visiting a bulk of the sites along the way.

After taking in so much history in so little time, you’re probably ready to chill and grab some food. Thankfully there’s a spot on the trail that makes for the perfect lunch break.

READ MORE: Check out our other epic city guide on how to spend 3 days in New York !

With only a few days in Boston, you’ll definitely want to try as much local food as possible. Hopefully, you’re nice and hungry by this point in the day, because there are lots of options at Faneuil Hall on the edge of North End.

This is one of the most historic sites in all of Boston, as it’s where the Sons of Liberty gathered to discuss independence from Great Britain. It’s been an important meeting place and market ever since it was built in 1742.

Faneuil Hall

To learn more about the importance of Faneuil Hall, you can join a free talk in the historic Great Hall. These begin every half an hour between 9:30 and 4:30.

Oh yeah, back to the food! Sorry folks – there’s just so much to cover with only so much time! Inside the hall, you’ll see lots of excellent options in Quincy Market.

When in Boston, one must eat a bowl of chowdah . For those unfamiliar with the Boston accent, I’m talking about clam chowder – a creamy seafood soup that’s a local favorite.

Or splurge and get a classic New England lobster roll!

If you want to be a mega-tourist, add a stop at Cheers. This bar is a replica of the one from the famous TV show and while a bit cheesy, is a fun place to grab a drink.

Cheers!

Before you go, be sure to check out the amazing street performers outside of the hall. From magicians to jugglers to clowns to mimes, there are some incredibly talented people here.

If you’re feeling the history vibe, then you can keep on cruising along the Freedom Trail and cross over the Charles River.

You could easily spend the rest of your afternoon crossing the remaining sites off your list, among them Paul Revere’s House and the USS Constitution.

Paul Revere House

Both charge an entrance fee ($5 and $10 respectively) so you may want to take that into consideration.

Should you feel a bit tired of reading plaques and looking at statues, just head back to where the day started and spend some more time exploring Boston Common.

Take a walk through the park and cross Charles Street, and you’ll find yourself in the Boston Public Garden. Cruising around the pond on a swan boat in Boston Public Garden is definitely among the top things to do in any Boston itinerary.

Near Boston Public Gardens and Boston Common is Beacon Hill , another gem of the city. Beacon Hill is one of the most beautiful Boston neighborhoods, so if you have time time it’s worth strolling around.

Beacon Hill is a residential area full of picturesque brick buildings, old fashioned apartments, and lots of greenery. Beacon Hill is always charming, but it is especially scenic if you visit in winter when there is snow falling everywhere.

Read Next: Looking for more history on the east coast? Check out our awesome 3 days in Philadelphia itinerary !

Day 1 – Evening

After a very busy start to your Boston itinerary, it’s time to enjoy a bit of leisure time to wrap up day one. And I know just the place to do that!

Once you’re satisfied with your time in the garden, head out to nearby Newbury Street. This popular commercial area is famous for its well-preserved brownstones that house a wide variety of businesses.

Unless you’re looking to drain your wallet, move quickly along the street. You see, the higher end of the street is full of luxury brands, earning it a reputation as one of the most expensive streets in the US.

As you get to the lower numbers, you’ll find some more budget-friendly options. Take your pick from the countless cafes, shops, and bars here before our last stop.

To wind down day one, head to the nearby Skywalk Observatory for the best panoramic views of Boston.

The observatory is located atop the Prudential Centre and it’s the only sky-high vantage point in the city. Try to time your visit around sunset for an absolutely epic view!

Tickets are a bit pricey at $21 for adults, but it’s worth it on a clear day. You can even see into the neighbouring state of New Hampshire on a nice day here.

In addition to the observatory, your ticket also includes admission to the Dreams of Freedom Museum. This museum celebrates the diversity of Boston and the importance of immigrants in shaping the city.

If you’re looking for a nightcap, there are plenty of bars in the area. Otherwise, head home and get some rest to gear up for the remainder of your time in Boston.

Day 2 – Morning

Rise and shine, because we’ve got another big day in Boston! Grab some brekky and coffee, lace up your walking shoes, and let’s go!

Thanks to its location, Boston has a beautiful waterfront with plenty to see and do, particularly on the North End. This makes for the perfect place to spend a relaxing morning in Beantown.

The thing about the Waterfront is that there’s just so much going on here that there’s no way to pack it all into your Boston itinerary. That’s why it’s time to…

While I’m here to help you explore Boston in 3 days, I’m not giving you a concrete Boston itinerary. Travel is all about going with the flow, after all. That’s why it’s time to choose your own adventure at this point in the tour!

Here are just a few of the many things you can do along the Waterfront:

This beautiful green space offers some fantastic views of Boston Harbor on the North End. On a nice day in Boston, there are few places better to be than this!

In addition to enjoying the views, you can also take a walk in the rose garden or head across the street for a ride on the Greenway Carousel.

Another option while you’re over here is the New England Aquarium. It’s a very impressive aquarium, highlighted by their Giant Ocean Tank. This is home to the aquarium’s most famous resident – Myrtle the Sea Turtle.

You can also catch a show at the IMAX theatre or join a whale watching tour here. These tours run between April and November and make for an unforgettable experience.

Click here to buy an entry ticket to the New England Aquarium. Unless you already have a Boston CityPASS, in which case the ticket is included!

HOT TIP: The New England Aquarium is included with your Boston CityPASS!

In the Waterfront area, you have plenty of options for a unique guided tour of Boston. Take your pick between an Old Town Trolley Tour , a Boston Harbor Cruise, or a Duck Tour.

If you’re wondering about that last one, I’m not talking about exploring Boston with a flock of birds.

A “duck” is a special amphibious vehicle that brings you on a tour of Boston before splashing down into the Charles River.

A Duck Tour is a super family friendly way to explore Boston by road and by water.

Alternatively, you can book a Boston Harbor cruise . Boat cruises are always fun, and there is a wide variety of boat tours in Boston to choose from.

Choose between a historical sightseeing cruise , a Boston Harbor Cruise with buffet lunch , or a sunset yacht cruise.

You can also tour Harvard University , one of the country’s most famous schools. The grounds are beautiful and lots of cool history happened at Harvard University, so it’s worth checking out.

Day 2 – Afternoon

Whatever you decide to do on the Waterfront, make sure to include a quick stroll along the scenic Rose Kennedy Greenway.

This is one of the best places for cafes and restaurants in the area, so go ahead and take your pick for a lunch break.

Clam Chowdah

There are several great museums to choose from in Boston, and a few of them are located right over here.

If you’re ready to dive back into the history lesson we started on day one, head to the Boston Tea Party Museum & Ships. Here you get to go aboard a replica ship and actually re-enact the famous event.

The Boston Tea Party is one of the most well-known events in American history so it’s kind of like meeting a celebrity.

Tickets for the museum cost $40 for adults and you can save a few bucks by booking online . This is a rare museum that’s fun for the whole family, so it’s a great choice if travelling with kids.

Speaking of the kiddos, the Boston Children’s Museum is located right next door. It’s an interactive museum and is super fun, even for big kids! Tickets cost $18 and you can book online .

While Ben Franklin may not have ever actually uttered the words “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy,” there’s still a lot of wisdom behind the quote!

It’s been a busy time in Boston so far, so I’d say it’s time for a cheeky brew!

Cruise over to the nearby Seaport District of Boston to find Harpoon Brewery & Beer Hall. They run tours every day and tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Check their website for all the details.

If you just want a drink and don’t need a brewery tour to go along with it, another option is the Fort Point location for Trillium Brewing . These guys make some killer beers and have a solid restaurant as well.

While it’s a bit of a hike from the harbor, Samuel Adams is probably the most famous Boston brewery.

They’re located in the Jamaica Plain part of the city and their last tour starts at 5 PM. Check their website to read about all their tour options.

Day 2 – Evening

How you choose to spend your evening totally depends on what time of year you visit, your interests, and your energy level. After all, it’s already been a huge experience in Boston so far!

With so many options and so many variables, you know what that means. It’s time to choose your own adventure.

As a native Detroiter I hate to admit it, but Boston is one of the best cities for sports. Not just in the US, either, but in the entire world.

I mean, they won the Super Bowl AND the World Series in the same year and were just one game away from adding the Stanley Cup. That’s unreal!

If you’re in Boston between October and May, there’s a good chance either the Celtics (NBA) or Bruins (NHL) have a home game at TD Garden.

Even if they’re away, the bars around the arena are lively. I particularly enjoyed the hilariously named “The Greatest Bar.” Yeah, they’re not too humble around here when it comes to sports and drinking!

The Greatest Bar 3 Days In Boston Itinerary

While the New England Patriots (NFL) are technically a Boston team, they play pretty far outside of the city centre. If you’re willing to make the trek, most home games are on Sunday afternoons between September and January.

If the Red Sox are in town, you should definitely try to score tickets. After all, baseball is America’s pastime! Plus, the Red Sox play at Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in the country.

Historic Fenway Park has to be on your list of what to see in Boston, even if there’s no game going on.

You can book a 1-hour guided tour of the sports ground here .

Live music lovers will be happy to hear that there are plenty of options for jamming out in Beantown. From a classy night out with the symphony to a wild night of head-banging along to some heavy metal, you can find it here.

To figure out where to go for some tunes in Boston, I recommend checking out this article on the 25 best music venues in the city. I always use Jambase to see what shows are on in a city when I’m travelling there.

Of course, you can always just go out and see where the night takes you. This is a city that likes to party so you’re guaranteed to find something fun. You’ve got to go big at least one night!

Day 3 – Morning

Depending on how your night wound up, it might be a slow start to the final day. Thankfully there’s no shortage of places to get a late and leisurely brunch in this town!

Eggs Benny

We hit up Zaftigs Delicatessen ( click here for directions) during our Boston itinerary and really enjoyed it. There’s nothing like some eggs benedict and a strong coffee to bring you back to life!

Let’s finish up this itinerary with a bang!

To kick off day three, head to the Fenway-Kenmore part of the city. Here are some of the best museums in town, including the Museum of Fine Arts Boston , which dates back to the 19th century.

You could honestly spend the entire day in here and not even scratch the surface. They have such a vast collection of art from all over the world it’s mind-boggling.

Be sure to have a look at their visitor guide so you can make a gameplan. Tickets cost $25 for adults and you can book online ahead of time to skip the line.

Another one of the best art museums is the nearby Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . This incredible art museum is located in the former home of its namesake, which was built in the style of a 15-century Venetian palace.

Inside, you’ll see three floors full of art, surrounding a lovely courtyard and garden. This has got to be one of the nicest looking museums out there!

At just $15, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is well worth the price of admission to add this one-of-a-kind museum to your itinerary.

Click here to book tickets online.

Another option is the Institute of Contemporary Art . Located on the waterfront, this stunning museum showcases so much interesting contemporary art and often has performances and exhibitions. Visit the website for more info!

HOT TIP: The Museum of Science is included with your Boston CityPASS!

Whichever museum you choose to visit, be sure to drop by the nearby Back Bay Fens on your way out. This tranquil green space is a part of the larger Emerald Necklace chain of parks throughout Boston and Brookline.

This is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll after a jampacked 3 days in Boston. While you’re here, don’t miss the beautiful Kelleher Rose Garden.

In addition, you can visit one of only two remaining “Victory Gardens” in the US that were planted by citizens to help grow food during World War II.

There’s also a temple bell here that was donated by Japan after the war as a symbol of peace.

Day 3 – Afternoon

After a moment of peace and quiet out in nature, it’s time to finish up your Boston itinerary! Next up, we’re headed to one of the most iconic places in the city – Fenway Park.

Since it’s a major sporting venue, there are tons of places to eat and drink around Fenway. Go ahead and take this opportunity to grab some lunch and take a load off before visiting the ballpark.

Dating back to 1912, Fenway is the oldest ballpark in America. It’s home to the city’s beloved Red Sox, and is a must-see when you visit Boston.

Fenway Park

As I mentioned earlier, it’s worth it to visit Fenway even if there isn’t a Boston Red Sox game going on. They run tours of the ballpark from 9-5 during the season, even on game days (tours run 10-5 from November to March).

In an age of excessive corporate sponsorship and tacky theme park-esque ballparks, it’s nice to visit one of the originals. I’m a Tigers fan for life but I’ve got to admit that going to Fenway Park is an incredible experience.

On a tour of Fenway, you’ll get to learn all about the unique features of the ballpark, such as its famous “Green Monster.”

You need to book ahead of time if you want to do a tour, and you can do that here .

If there’s not a game going on at Fenway or you’re just not into baseball, let me present an alternative option.

Not too far up the road is the John F. Kennedy National Historic Site, birthplace and childhood home of the 35th US President.

You can normally tour the grounds, but the National Historic Site is actually closed until 2023 for maintenance and renovations. But when they are ready to reopen, it should definitley have a place on your Boston itinerary. Check their website for more information.

If you’d like to learn more about JFK and his legacy, you can also consider adding a trip to his presidential library and museum to your Boston itinerary.

Day 3 – Evening

Congratulations on making it to the end of a busy stay in Boston! I definitely didn’t go easy on you with this one…

If you actually followed this beast of an itinerary, chances are you’re pretty spent by now. It’s your last night in Beantown, though, so power through and head out for one last night.

With so many options in Boston, it’s time once again to…

We’ve already covered sports and live music here, but there are lots of other great options for entertainment in Boston.

One popular option is an escape room. There are a few near Boston Common, including Trapology and Escape the Room . Find the clues and solve some mind-bending puzzles to make your escape in time!

Perhaps you’d rather wind down your time in Boston with some laughs. The city is home to many excellent comedy clubs, including Improv Asylum.

Check out their website to see what’s playing while you’re in town.

Quincy Market Boston In 3 Days

If you’d prefer to just have a nice dinner and a few drinks, the area around the Waterfront is full of great restaurants and bars.

South Boston, locally known as “Southie”, also has great nightlife.

And that about does it for how to spend 3 days in Boston!

Boston Travel Guide

Where to stay in boston.

This isn’t the biggest city, but you still want to give some consideration to where you stay. Downtown is the hub of tourist activity and thus has the biggest selection of accommodation.

If you’re planning on spending a lot of your time in Boston in museums and at the ballpark, the Fenway-Kenmore area is a better choice. Those focused on fine dining and shopping should look to the Back Bay area of the city.

Beacon Hill is centrally located, but it’s quite expensive.

In these areas, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation choices.

Boston Common

Boston is home to budget hostels, mid-range hotels, luxury resorts, and everything in between. Here’s a top choice for each category:

When it comes to hostels, you just can’t beat HI Boston. It’s in a great location, just steps away from Boston Common and the start of the Freedom Trail.

Hosteling International is all over the world and they know what backpackers like! They offer free breakfast as well as free walking tours, a nice TV room to chill in, a pool table, and much more.

HI Boston also has laundry facilities and a nice cafe with free WiFi if you need to get a bit of work done or just post pictures from your awesome 3 days in Boston.

Dorm beds here are comfy and each one has a light and outlet. These range from $40-60 a night depending on the number of beds in the room.

This fantastic hotel is located in one of Boston’s most historic neighbourhoods – Back Bay. Here you can see 19th-century townhouses.

They have four different room types, from their standard room to their luxury bay window king room. All rooms include free WiFi and breakfast.

All guests can enjoy their nice common area, where there is a computer and printer along with free tea, coffee, and cookies. Yummy!

If you’re hoping to catch a game at Fenway, this is an excellent choice as the ballpark is just a mile away. Rooms start at $259 a night here.

If you’re looking to live it up, the Boston Waterfront Hotel on the North End is the place for you. This 5-star hotel is located right on the Rowes Wharf and is known for its “classically current” style.

All of the 232 rooms here are beautifully designed with tremendous attention to detail. These range from their Superior Room all the way up to the unreal John Adams Presidential Suite.

There are several options for wining and dining on-site, including the Meritage Restaurant & Wine Bar and Brewer’s Alley. You can also get room service here 24/7!

As if that weren’t enough, they also have a state-of-the-art gym here with a three-lane pool and a spa. You’re really living the good life if you stay here!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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About the Author - Sasha and Rachel

One of our official NOMADasaurus team writers, Sasha and Rachel, otherwise known as the Grateful Gypsies, are a world travelling, English-teaching, jamband-following couple passionate about travel, culture, and music. From working in Beijing to studying in Bali to traversing the USA on Phish tour, you can follow them on their long, strange tour at Grateful Gypsies .

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6 thoughts on “The Perfect 3 Days in Boston Itinerary (2024 Update)”

I would love to visit Boston in the summer! This itinerary looks perfect!

This is an excellent itinerary for anyone planning a short trip to Boston! Your suggestions for must-visit sights and activities are well thought out and cover a good range of interests, from history to food to outdoor exploration.

Thank you so much. We appreciate it 🙂

Great 3 days itinerary!Really useful tips about and informative content about boston.Thanks for sharing.

Thanks so much. Glad the article was helpful. 🙂

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The Geographical Cure

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.

lighthouse in Portland Maine

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.

Pinterest pin for best day trips from Boston

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).

Bristol Ferry Lighthouse

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.

Harvard University on the Charles River

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 .

Harvard Yard

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 .

Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse

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.

historic pastel tow houses in Charlestown

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.

Chatham Lighthouse

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.

charming shops along Main Street

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.

Old North Bridge from the Battle of Lexington and Concord

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.

boston day trip reddit

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.

the gold domed State House in Concord New Hampshire with a statue of Daniel Webster

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.

houses in Essex along the Connecticut River

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.

the riverfront buildings of Exeter New Hampshire

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.

Baker Library at Darmouth College in Hanover

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.

Rollins Chapel in Hanover NH

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.

he Mark Twain House and Museum

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.

Wadsworth Museum Hartford

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.

main building of Stonewall Farm in Keene NH

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.

wooden houses in Kennebunkport Maine, a great day trip from Boston

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.

lobster shack in Kennebunkport

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.

the Marina in Kittery Maine

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.

The Mount, Edith Wharton's home in Lenox

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.

Minuteman Statue & Battle Green in Lexington, a great day trip from Boston for history lovers

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.

Madison cityscape from Olin city park across the Monona lake

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.

skyline of Manchester NH on the Merrimack River

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.

pretty street in Mystic Connecticut

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.

historic center of Newburyport in Massachusetts

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.

boston day trip reddit

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 .

Castle Hill Lighthouse

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.

Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge Massachusetts

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.

sunset in Ogunquit Maine

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.

Smith College in Northampton

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.

Mount Holyoke College

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.

the pretty town of Peterborough

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.

Plimoth Plantation

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

Gurnet Lighthouse

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.

cityscape of Portland

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.

street in the Old Port

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.”

Commerical Street in the Old Port

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.

beautiful Portsmouth NH

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.

gardens in Prescott Park

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 .

cityscape of Providence

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.

aerial view of College Hill and Brown University

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

Provincetown Beach in Cape Cod

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.

entry to the Macmillan Wharf in Provincetown.

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.

Rockport Massachusetts, a beautiful seaside town that's a great day trip from Boston

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 .

Concord Point in Rye

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.

historic center of Salem

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 .

boston day trip reddit

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 .

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Park

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.

pretty lane in Stockbridge

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.”

the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge

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.

the Cog Railway in the White Mountains

 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.

boston day trip reddit

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. 

cityscape of Worcester

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.

Chatham Massachusetts

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.

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

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

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

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

I would love a lobster roll right now!

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Last Updated on July 4, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Boston in 5 Days: A Journey Through History and Culture

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by Christopher

February 26, 2024 · 3 min read

Boston 5 Days Itinerary

Embark on a 5-day adventure through Boston's historic charm and cultural treasures. Begin your journey at the prestigious Harvard University, soaking in the academic atmosphere for 2 hours before strolling through the serene Harvard Yard. On Day 2, immerse yourself in the arts with visits to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, dedicating an hour and 3 hours respectively. Day 3 invites you to the lush landscapes of the Public Garden and Boston Common, each offering an hour of exploration, followed by a 2-hour dive into the bustling streets of Chinatown. The fourth day is a blend of commerce and marine life as you spend an hour at Quincy Market and 2 hours at the New England Aquarium. Conclude your trip on Day 5 by walking the Freedom Trail for 2 hours, delving into naval history at the USS Constitution Museum for another 2 hours, and paying homage to the past at the Bunker Hill Monument. Each day is filled with iconic sites that promise to leave you with a profound appreciation for Boston's storied past and dynamic present.

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  • Day 1: Exploring the Intellectual Pinnacle of Boston

Harvard University

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Kickstart your Boston journey with a visit to the prestigious Harvard University, the epitome of academic excellence and a beacon of knowledge. Nestled in Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, this iconic institution invites you for a 2-hour exploration of its hallowed halls. As you meander through the campus, absorb the vibrant atmosphere where future leaders and thinkers are molded. Harvard's rich history and architectural beauty make it more than just an educational establishment; it's a landmark that has witnessed centuries of scholarly pursuits.

Attraction Info

  • Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, MA 02138
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-5 hour
  • Open on Mon-Fri,9:00am-5:00pm

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Urban Hearth

Harvard Yard

Just a short stroll from the intellectual hub of Harvard University lies the serene Harvard Yard, a lush city park that offers a tranquil retreat amidst the academic bustle. Spend an hour in this verdant oasis at 2 Kirkland St, where the whispering leaves and historic buildings provide a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and reflection. Harvard Yard is not only a green heart for students but also a charming spot for visitors to witness the daily life of one of the world's most renowned universities.

  • 2 Kirkland St, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Closed on Sat-Sun;Open on Mon-Fri,9:00am-5:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

Harvard square hotel, hotel veritas, irving house at harvard, the charles hotel in harvard square.

  • Day 2: Artistic Wonders of Boston

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Kicking off the second day with a touch of elegance, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum awaits as your first stop. Nestled at 25 Evans Way, this art gallery is not just a home to stunning artworks but also a testament to personal collection and passion. Spend an hour immersed in a unique atmosphere where the legacy of Isabella Stewart Gardner is palpably felt through the curated rooms and intimate galleries. The museum's charm lies in its ability to transport visitors to a different era, surrounded by lush courtyard gardens and an eclectic mix of art that spans centuries.

  • 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115, United States
  • Open on Thu,11:00am-9:00pm;Open on Mon, Wed, Fri,11:00am-5:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm

Saltie Girl

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Continuing the day's cultural journey, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston stands as the next destination. A mere stone's throw from the previous gallery, this art museum is a master building housing an impressive collection that warrants a longer stay of three hours. Located at 465 Huntington Ave, the museum boasts an extensive array of masterpieces from around the world, including renowned American art, contemporary works, and ancient artifacts. The Museum of Fine Arts offers a deep dive into the world of art, where every corner presents a new discovery and every exhibit tells a story.

  • 465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States
  • Suggested tour duration: 3-5 hour
  • Open on Mon, Wed, Sat-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm;Open on Thu-Fri,10:00am-10:00pm;Closed on Tue

The Verb Hotel

Pierce boston, oasis guest house.

  • Day 3: Boston's Historic Parks and Cultural Exploration

Public Garden

Begin your day with a serene stroll through the Public Garden, Boston's verdant oasis. As the first botanical garden in the United States, this enchanting green space invites visitors to unwind amidst its manicured paths, vibrant flower beds, and the famous Swan Boats gliding on the tranquil lagoon. Located in the heart of the city at Boston, MA 02116, the Public Garden is an idyllic spot to appreciate nature's artistry and the historical statues that stand as silent sentinels to Boston's rich past.

  • Boston, MA 02116, United States

The Union Oyster House

Boston Common

Just a short walk from the Public Garden, immerse yourself in the historical ambiance of Boston Common. Nestled at 139 Tremont St, this storied city park doubles as a historic site, where each pathway and monument whispers tales from America's formative years. As the oldest park in the country, Boston Common offers a blend of leisure and legacy, providing the perfect setting for a reflective hour spent pondering the city's revolutionary spirit amidst its lush lawns and timeless landmarks.

  • 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
  • Open from 6:00am-11:30pm

Conclude your day's journey with a vibrant visit to Chinatown, a characteristic neighborhood brimming with cultural flair. As you wander through the streets of this bustling enclave, located within the heart of Boston, MA, indulge in the rich tapestry of Asian cuisine, colorful shops, and spirited festivals that define this community. With two hours to explore, you'll have ample time to savor the authentic flavors and spirited atmosphere that make Chinatown a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the diversity of Boston's urban landscape.

  • Boston, MA, USA
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour

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  • Day 4: Historic Bites and Marine Delights in Boston

Quincy Market

Kicking off the fourth day with a blend of culinary delights and historic ambiance, Quincy Market is the perfect morning destination. Nestled at 206 S Market St, this bustling hub offers a taste of Boston's characteristic neighborhoods through its vibrant array of markets. Spend an hour savoring the local flavors and exploring the unique shops that make Quincy Market a must-visit spot for foodies and history buffs alike.

  • 206 S Market St, Boston, MA 02109, United States
  • Open on Mon-Sat,10:00am-9:00pm;Open on Sun,12:00pm-6:00pm

New England Aquarium

After indulging in the historic market scene, dive into an underwater world at the New England Aquarium. Located just a short stroll away at 1 Central Wharf, this aquatic haven promises a two-hour journey through the mysteries of the ocean. With its impressive collection of marine life, interactive exhibits, and a giant ocean tank that serves as a centerpiece, the New England Aquarium is an immersive experience that captivates visitors of all ages.

  • 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, United States
  • Suggested tour duration: 2 hour
  • Open from 1/1-12/31,9:00am-5:00pm;Open from 1/1-12/31,9:00am-6:00pm,Holiday opening hours are subject to the scenic spot announcement.

Boston Marriott Long Wharf

Boston yacht haven, harborside inn, boston harbor hotel.

  • Day 5: Historic Farewell to Boston

Freedom Trail

Begin your final day with a walk through history on the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path through downtown Boston that passes by 16 locations significant to the history of the United States. As you follow the trail's distinctive red line, you'll encounter charming neighborhoods and iconic landmarks, each with a story to tell. Allow yourself to be transported back in time as you spend a couple of hours exploring the birthplace of American liberty.

USS Constitution Museum

After your historical stroll, set sail for the USS Constitution Museum, located within the Charlestown Navy Yard. Here, you'll embark on a journey through America's naval heritage that's as engaging as it is educational. Spend about two hours delving into the illustrious past of the USS Constitution, the world's oldest commissioned naval vessel afloat, and immerse yourself in the interactive exhibits that bring over 200 years of naval history to life.

  • Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA 02129, United States
  • Open from 10:00am-5:00pm

Bunker Hill Monument

Conclude your Boston adventure with a visit to the Bunker Hill Monument, a towering tribute to the first major battle of the American Revolution. Climb the 294 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city, or explore the on-site museum to learn about the valor of the soldiers who fought there. With just an hour needed, it's the perfect final stop to reflect on the rich history and indomitable spirit that defines Boston.

  • Monument Sq, Charlestown, MA 02129, United States
  • Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
  • Open on Wed-Sun,1:00pm-4:00pm

Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf

Courtyard boston downtown/north station, citizenm boston north station, hotel indigo boston garden, an ihg hotel, top things to do in boston-2024.

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* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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The 5 Best Day Trips from Boston to Explore Greater New England

best day trips from boston

Best Day Trips from Boston

For how much culture and excitement there is in Boston, Massachusetts , many visitors are surprised by how physically small the city really tours.

While Boston offers plenty of exciting activities, its density allows most main attractions to be visited in 2-3 days. That’s why people taking extended Boston trips often itch to get outside, and boy, does the greater Boston and New England area deliver.

Whether iconic historical locations, beautiful beach side towns, or America’s best lobster fit your fancy, keep reading for the 5 best day trips from Boston!

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Boston day trips

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Fun Boston Day Trips

1. cambridge, lexington, and concord.

boston day trip reddit

Though among the short day trips from Boston (the entire tour is under 5 hours), the American History Tour and its stops to Cambridge, Lexington, and Concord brings incredible excitement to American history nerds and novices alike.

The tour begins by traversing the Charles River to Cambridge , where, speaking of nerds (just kidding, C!), some of the world’s brightest minds study at Harvard and M.I.T.

Visits to Harvard Yard (where, contrary to popular sayings, no cars can be parked) and the nearby Cambridge Common (where George Washington famously addressed American Revolution troops) are followed by visits to Lexington and Concord .

Highlights include traveling the road where Paul Revere bellowed his famous “One, if by land, and two, if by sea” warning and visiting the preserved homes of authors Nathaniel Hawthorne, Louisa May Alcott, and Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Check tour availability here .

2. Martha’s Vineyard

boston day trip reddit

Everyone knows a place with a name this lovely must be fabulous, and that’s exactly what Martha’s Vineyard , playground to the New England rich and famous (very much the Hamptons of New York) is.

Among the best beach day trips from Boston, this Martha’s Vineyard excursion removes all logistical stress by providing patrons with a coach ride to Falmouth, Massachusetts followed by a 30-minute ferry across the Vineyard Sound (snacks and drinks are provided).

The tour affords 6 completely independent and leisurely hours to explore notable Vineyard attractions. My personal recommendations for what to do?

Visit the restaurants, boutique shops, and colorful buildings of Circuit Avenue , catch an iconic lighthouse shot at Gay Head Light near the Aquinnah Cliffs, fish at Cuttyhunk Island (America’s first fish settlement), or catch some simple surf and sun at Inkwell Beach!

3. Newport Mansions

boston day trip reddit

Once home to American families including the Vanderbilts, Wideners, and Astors, the mansions of Newport, Rhode Island have been amazing visitors for nearly 175 years.

If you’re looking for summer day trips from Boston, hop in a private coach and tour incredible mansions (my personal favorites are Miramar and The Breakers ) that have sprawling lawns and incredible estates, many of which designed to resemble French palaces or Italian villas.

After touring the mansions you’ll have the opportunity to stroll The Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail hugging Sheep Point Cove that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The tour is also perfect for short day trips from Boston as Newport lies just 90 minutes south of the Hub!

4. Cape Cod

boston day trip reddit

While Cape Cod is deservedly beloved by both tourists and locals as a destination for the best beach day trips from Boston, reaching Cape Cod during the summer can be an absolute traffic nightmare.

Luckily this headache can be avoided by boarding the Cape Cod Fast Ferry , a sleek catamaran that takes you from Boston to Cape Cod in just 90 minutes.

Besides getting unbeatable shorelines views, the Cape Cod Fast Ferry is great because it terminates in Provincetown, the heart of Cape Cod’s gallery, beach, and culinary scenes.

Ferries depart four times daily from both Boston and Provincetown, giving you plenty of time experience Boston’s preferred summer destination! For more about Cape Cod, check out our Nantucket travel guides.

5. Coastal Maine

boston day trip reddit

For a more relaxed offering among the best day trips from Boston (or for insatiable seafood fans, like myself!), head 90 minutes north to Coastal Maine , among picturesque America’s most underrated destinations.

Once you arrive in Maine you’ll be treated to a traditional Maine lobster bake (replete with clams, mussels, baby potatoes, corn on the cob, and – of course – blueberry pie) followed by a visit to York Island to view the iconic Nubble Lighthouse .

From there you can independently explore the coast before visiting the Kittery Premium Outlets (shopping spree optional), all in time to still have dinner back in Boston! Read more about visiting Maine here.

Which Boston day trip is high on your list?

Planning a Trip to Boston – Travel Checklist

Boston makes for a great weekend trip from New York City . We hopped on a bus ride from midtown which took about 3.5 hours one way, or 5 hours in traffic.

We thought about renting a car but Boston is a very walk-able city and parking can be a nightmare, so the bus ended up being a great option! If you're decide you do want a car to get around, you can check car rental rates here .

Getting around is easy on foot, via the subway or with the Hop-On, Hop-Off trolley . We opted to stay on Public Garden square, but you can browse current Boston hotel deals here .

Lastly, don't forget to get travel insurance for your trip. Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, your luggage is delayed or your phone gets stolen, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Get a  quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

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Boston Travel Guide: 7 Wicked Cool Things to Do in Boston

Where to Stay in Boston : A Neighborhood & Accommodation Guide

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4 Incredible Restaurants You Must Try in Boston

Don't Miss Boston's Breweries : Our Day at Harpoon

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5 Easy Day Trips from Boston

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Good list! I have done all these trips. Nothing beats a summer road trip to Maine for lobster!

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Boston winter

22 best winter day trips from Boston

From cozy getaways to glittery jaunts to the best foodie stops, we found the most fun destinations to hit outside The Hub this winter

JQ Louise

Bostonians take winter fun seriously, it’s an integral part of living in the Northeast. Truly, the only way to survive the winter cold is to plan fun activities that get you out of the house. One of the best ways to avoid cabin fever this time of year is to get out of the city. And, a little day trip can really lift the spirits. Explore all that New England has to offer, including quaint, historic towns and shoreline stops, as well as gaming destinations and, of course, buzzing ski towns. And if you don’t have time to head of Boston right now, stick stay closer to home and enjoy the city’s best attractions , best free things to do and best museums in Boston . RECOMMENDED:  The coziest Airbnb cabins near Boston

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Best winter day trips from Boston

Bretton Woods, NH

1.  Bretton Woods, NH

Located in the White Mountains National Forest, New Hampshire’s stunning Bretton Woods is a winter wonderland spread across more than 2,000 acres, at the base of the tallest peak in the Northeast, Mount Washington. You can take a canopy tour zipline, dine at the mountain top and, of course, glide down the slopes.

Woodstock, VT

2.  Woodstock, VT

Most New Englanders know this bucolic village from summer and fall visits, but they’re missing the beauty of the green covered in a deep snow. It’s the perfect setting for the annual Woodstock Snow Sculpture Festival, held every February. You can also browse Woodstock’s unique shops like FH Gillingham & Sons general store, or the Arts on the Green gallery. Enjoy farm to table dining at the Prince and the Pauper , or grab a pizza and a nice glass of wine at the Ransom Tavern .

Portsmouth, NH

3.  Portsmouth, NH

One of our favorite destinations in New England, Portsmouth has a thriving food scene, offers one-of-a-kind shopping, historic walking trails and a beautiful waterfront. Pick a dry day to walk around the shops, then hit Vida Cantina , owned by James Beard nominee David Vargas; or Toscana Italian Chophouse & Wine Bar for a warming bite. Earth Eagle Brewing ’s taproom is a more casual option, with gourmet burgers and dogs that are worth the trip.

Mystic, CT

4.  Mystic, CT

Scenic, historic Mystic is renowned for stellar attractions such as the Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport Museum . Once you make the 90-minute journey from Boston, you can make a day of it—but if you choose to stay over, try The Whaler’s Inn . Nestled just steps from the banks of the Mystic River and the Bascule Drawbridge, the Inn offers inspired dining at The Shipwright's Daughter . Of course, no visit to Mystic is complete without a meal at The Oyster Club , and a trip to try the award winning pizza at Nana’s Bakery is a must.

Salem, MA

5.  Salem, MA

  • Things to do

October may be the busiest time of year to visit Salem, but the city is just as fun in the winter. With the Peabody Essex Museum, lots of great restaurants and so many other cultural things to do, Salem is a great day trip from Boston--especially because it is accessible via the commuter rail. So you don't even need a car!

Newport, RI

6.  Newport, RI

While you may think summer is the time to visit Newport’s glorious Gilded Age mansions, the annual Newport Winter Festival is among New England’s largest winter celebrations and takes place each February with ten days of events. Along with concerts and a children’s fair, there’s a killer Chili Cook-Off featuring chefs from local restaurants. Treat yourself to a fun, stay at Castle Hill Inn , or stop by The Reef for classic seafood with impressive ocean views.

Kennebunkport, ME

7.  Kennebunkport, ME

The Maine coastline is always beautiful, but it’s even more stunning to see those mighty waves crash on a snowy afternoon. There’s lots to do too, like Kennebunkport’s annual Paint the Town Red event that stretches Valentine’s Day into a month-long celebration. Dock Square—the town’s unofficial center—is decked out in red twinkly lights, capped with an eight-foot glowing red heart created from lobster traps. Throughout the month, there are special pop-up dinners, mixology classes and wine tastings, many of them offering specials and deals.

Westford, MA

8.  Westford, MA

Ski, board, tube and soak in the wintery scene at the Nashoba Valley Ski Area , just 25 miles west of Boston in quiet Westford. This family-owned resort has 18 beautifully groomed trails on 55 acres of terrain. The adjacent, separate tubing park has 18 lanes, making it New England’s largest such facility. Winter events include the annual Grease the Rail Jam and legendary freestyler Wayne Wong’s annual ski clinics with resort co-owner, Olympian Pam Fletcher. It all comes to a splashy end in March with the Meltdown Pond Skim: ski into slush!

Newburyport

9.  Newburyport

Enjoy an off-season stroll through history in this seaport town, on a cool winter day. Start by visiting the Newburyport Historic District, which encompasses most of downtown, and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and includes the Cushing House Museum & Garden and the Custom House Maritime Museum . After taking in the local lore, dine on classic seafood at Michael’s Harborside or head to the Newburyport Brewing Company , both open year round.

10.  Dennis Port, MA

Is Cape Cod worth the visit in the winter? If you like uncrowded beaches, hiking and getting creative with activities—plus, not sitting in summer traffic—then the answer is yes. Take the under two-hour drive to Dennis Port and head outside to cross-country ski, snowshoe or, if the ground is bare, just walk the Cape Cod Rail Trail for a breathtaking view of the seascape during the winter. Stop by the Pelham House Resort for brunch with an ocean view (without the crowds!) and reserve a private beach bonfire for the whole group with s’more kits and spiked, salted hot caramel cocoa to end your perfect day.

The Inn at Hastings Park

11.  The Inn at Hastings Park

On a Sunday morning finish the weekend with brunch just outside Boston. The Inn at Hastings Park is a historic hotel located a few miles outside Boston.  Offering brunch  on Sundays, this is just the place to escape the city and enjoy the Relais & Chateaux  atmosphere. 

Old Saybrook, CT

12.  Old Saybrook, CT

Old Saybrook, a very un-touristy town on the coast, is eminently walkable and is  home to the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, or The Kate, which is named for the area’s most famous native. You can also explore Saybrook Point and Fort Saybrook Monument Park, and take in the quiet winter beauty of these protected coastal wetlands. Dine at the newly reopened The Essex , a local favorite that’s a Wine Spectator and Yankee Magazine award winner, or pop by the historic Monkey Farm for a more casual experience.

13.  North Adams, MA

North Adams is an old mill town by the Hoosic River that now attracts serious art- and nature-lovers from across the country, primarily due to the spectacular Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, better known as MASS MoCA . Hikers and folks looking for some fresh air head to Mount Greylock, Massachusetts’ highest peak, but bring your snowshoes or a sturdy vehicle in the winter. For Berkshire farms inspired eats, try the Break Room at Greylock Works for a menu that changes daily.

14.  Jackson, NH

If covered bridges iced with snow are your thing, you’ll get a treat heading into this  quiet valley town. Once there, head to the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation’s nonprofit cross country ski and snowshoe center. Considered some of the finest cross-country ski trails in the Eastern U.S., at the main lodge facility you’ll find a retail shop, rental shop and waxing area. There is a trail-warming hut, and ski lessons are available, along with snowshoe tours. After a strenuous day outdoors, dig into a charcuterie board and pan roasted farm sirloin at the Thompson House Eatery .

15.  Watch Hill, RI

Watch Hill in Rhode Island is another popular summer destination that is just as charming in the off season. And perhaps even more so due to the lack of crowds.  Swing by  Ocean House  and the Weekapaug Inn. Be sure to plan your visit so you can spend the afternoon at the  Weekapaug Inn  for lunch and then the evening for dinner at Ocean House.

16.  Westerly, RI

While visiting nearby Watch Hill, or as a stand-alone trip, sweet little Westerly is a decidedly non-touristy town with lots for visitors to do. Take a chilly stroll (or maybe not that chilly, based on the past few winters) on a stretch of Misquamicut State Beach, then head to downtown Westerly for fresh baked doughnuts at Knead , cocktails and oysters at High Hope Tavern and a modern Peruvian meal at Bar Pisco .

Provincetown

17.  Provincetown

With the ferry running into December, and Cape Air year round , there’s no better season than the holidays to visit sassy P-town. Take in the lobster pot “tree,” climb the 252-foot granite Pilgrim Monument for dramatic harbor views, dine year round on great seafood at Mac’s Fish House and enjoy strolling the peaceful streets.

18.  Brattleboro, VT

Brattleboro —a funky, artsy destination in the foothills of southern Vermont’s Green Mountains—is surrounded by wonderful hiking terrain, but you might also want to explore the town’s bohemian shops and farm-to-table eateries. Go vegan at the Superfresh! Organic Cafe, or head to the Chelsea Royal Diner, an original 1939 Worcester Lunch Car. In February, the annual Winter Carnival brings together the arts and entertainment communities for a weeklong jamboree. Visit the Vermont Jazz Center or one of the many artisan breweries. To learn about local history, stop into the Brattleboro Historical Society, which has a wonderful collection of memorabilia.

19.  Providence, RI

This easy to navigate city should be on your radar year round for a day trip. Put on your warmest winter coat and treat yourself to a dine-around through Federal Hill, the city’s impressive Italian neighborhood, loaded with Italian eateries and shops. Visit the Rhode Island School of Design’s museum , which includes one the country’s finest university art collections, and don’t miss celebrated Syrian bakery Aleppo Sweets .

Groton, MA

20.  Groton, MA

Head to this classic New England town and enjoy a brisk stroll around the Rocky Hill Wildlife Sanctuary , home to uninterrupted woodlands and ample solitude, and enjoy more than three miles of hiking trails while keeping an eye out for moose, beavers and porcupines, as well as nearly 100 species of birds. Other options include hiking Gibbet Hill Farm and exploring historic Bancroft Castle . If you’re visiting on a weekend, check to see if Puritan & Co.’s Will Gilson is cooking up dinner at his family farm, the Herb Lyceum .

Uncasville, CT

21.  Uncasville, CT

If you’re not feeling outdoorsy, plug into the nightlife at Mohegan Sun . The casino is essentially a giant indoor winter playground packed with restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. The gaming tables and slots are one option, but you can also catch a comedy or music act. In January, the annual Sun Wine and Food Fest adds three days of wine, beer, and spirits tasting, plus celebrity chef demonstrations.

Everett, MA

22.  Everett, MA

There’s one major reason to head to Everett, and that’s the relatively new Encore Boston Harbor Casino. Stay warm and cozy 24 hours a day while you hit the tables, or enjoy a relaxing massage in the resort's luxurious spa (which is offering winter skin saving treatments, like the Skin Replenishing Ritual, all season long). Sample new flavors at Cheese Meet Wine or bet on the Pats at Wynn BET Sports Bar .

More foodie fun

The best food-filled road trip from Boston

The best food-filled road trip from Boston

It doesn't get much better than food and travel—why not combine the two and take a food-focused road trip? Here's a go-to itinerary for anyone looking to take in the area's best treats and culinary experiences. Given New England's relatively small footprint, you can mix and match these stops based on your liking.

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Beyond Boston

10 day trips from boston by train—local’s guide.

a sailboat on the Charles River with the Boston skyline in the background at sunset

The nice thing about Boston is that you don’t need a car to go to some pretty cool places. This is all thanks to the Commuter Rail, which will take you to many towns within a couple hours of the city. As the name suggests, the train is mainly for commuters, but it also runs on the weekends.

After living in Boston for a few years, I’ve done some decent exploring of the area and want to share my favorite day trips for those looking for a short getaway.

These day trips range from cities to seaside villages to the countryside. They’re fitting for really any traveler—solo travelers, couples, friends, and families.

This post was written in 2019 and has been updated for 2023.

Table of Contents

How to Get to These Boston Day/Weekend Trips

All of these trips are accessible by the Commuter Rail, on different lines. I’ll be sure to specify which line and direction to take, and which station to leave from. You can always check up-to-date schedules on the  Commuter Rail site .

I highly recommend going on the weekend, as you can use the $10 unlimited Weekend Pass, cutting your transportation costs in half. Otherwise, most of these tickets cost around $20 roundtrip. With the Weekend Pass, you can take as many trips as you want for $10. You could even do one day trip on Saturday, and one on Sunday, if you’re feeling especially motivated 🙂

To be extra prepared, you can download the MBTA mTicket app, where you can purchase your tickets on your phone. You can also buy tickets on the train, but you’ll need to pay cash, and it may be more expensive (it’s unclear if Weekend Passes can be purchased on board). I’ve always used the app, and it’s super convenient.

Day Trips from Boston Without a Car

Note that this post contains affiliate links, meaning that I earn a small commission on any bookings you complete. This doesn’t cost you any extra, and it’s a great way to support my blog.

1. Providence, RI

How to get there:  take the Providence/Stoughton line towards Wickford Junction Train station in Boston:  South Station, Back Bay, Ruggles Distance:  1 hour

View of the Providence Athenaeum upon entering

While the rest of these destinations are in Massachusetts, one of my favorite day trips is actually in Rhode Island. Being from the Midwest, I always found it mind-boggling that you could drive an hour in the Northeast, and end up in a different state!

Providence is just an hour from Boston by train, and it’s a charming riverfront city. With a population of under 180,000, Providence is highly-walkable, but be prepared for some hills!

Here are some top things to do in Providence:

Wander through the prettiest little library, the Providence Athenaeum . This library basically screams “insta-worthy.” It’s full of cozy reading corners and study spaces; you’ll probably spot some Brown University students, who are known for frequenting the Athenaeum. The best part is that visiting is free to the public—you even can bring dogs inside!

After visiting the Athenaeum,  take a stroll along Benefit Street  (right in front of the Athenaeum). This street is known for its lovely houses. You can also  walk around the campus grounds of Ivy League school Brown , which is just up the hill.

One of the most famous Providence attractions is  WaterFire . There are many braziers along the river, which are basically metal containers used to burn firewood. WaterFire is an evening event where all these braziers are lit up. It’s a bit of a strange experience, and feels kind of creepy at times (almost like a satanic ritual haha). The music was spooky, and the people lighting the fires are often dressed in all black. Regardless, the riverfront is especially beautiful with the light of the fire. The event also brings together community vendors, residents, and tourists. In typical years, WaterFire is scheduled about every other Saturday from late May to early November.

Active travelers will appreciate the East Bay Bike Path,  which also offers views of the city and riverfront. You could rent a bike, or go on a run.

Finally,  if you’re looking for a delicious vegan meal, check out Veggie Fun . It sounds like a sketchy restaurant, but the food is well-balanced, it’s conveniently located downtown, and the setting is modern. The seitan spareribs are so savory and filling, and I highly recommend them!

Looking to stay longer than a day, and need a place to stay?  You might like this  historic apartment near Brown and RISD , or if you’re feeling extra adventurous,  this yacht in a private marina .

How to get there:  take the Newburyport/Rockport line towards Newburyport or Rockport Train station in Boston:  North Station Distance:  30 minutes

Sunset at Salem Willows Park on a cloudy day, with boats in the marina"

Salem is notorious as the  location of the 17th century Salem Witch Trials.  Nowadays, the small town really plays up this haunted/witchy reputation, and there are countless witch museums, haunted houses, dungeons, and witch souvenir shops. You can even take a ghost tour . I’m not a huge fan of “haunted” things, so I have a whole guide on  non-witchy things to do in Salem .

I do think the history of the witch trials is important to learn and understand, so if you haven’t been to the  Salem Witch Museum , you might want to visit. The exhibits are educational, rather than spooky.

My absolute favorite thing to do in Salem is  go to the Salem Willows Park and Arcade,  which is on a little peninsula about 1.5 miles from the town center. You can play classic games like Skee ball, coin pusher, air hockey, and Deal or No Deal.

At the park, you’ll also find plenty of vendors selling comfort food, like ice cream, pizza, fries, and Chinese takeout. You can stroll along the marina, have a picnic, and watch the sunset.

In the town center, there’s no shortage of cute shops and restaurants though. I personally love the stores  Oak + Moss  (pictured above) and  Mark Your Spot —they’re incredibly aesthetic. For vegan-friendly pizza in a fun, retro setting, I recommend  Flying Saucer Pizza Company . It’s a little pricey, but the portions are massive!

Looking to stay longer than a day, and need a place to stay?  You might like this  historic cottage near the town center .

3. Gloucester

How to get there:  take the Newburyport/Rockport line towards Rockport Train station in Boston:  North Station Distance:  1 hour 15 minutes

The exposed rocks of Wingaersheek Beach at low tide, with kids and adults wading in the water

Gloucester is a small seaside town best known for its beaches, whale watching expeditions, fishing, and seafood.

Some popular beaches include:

  • Wingaersheek Beach
  • Good Harbor Beach
  • Half Moon Beach
  • Niles Beach

All of these beaches are at least couple miles from the town center, so expect a longer walk, or be ready to take an Uber/Lyft. Some, like Wingaersheek and Niles, offer residents-only parking on certain days—if you’re driving, be sure to double-check. Even if there is public parking, you may have to pay $30+ per car!

I’ve only been to Wingaersheek, and I especially liked it for its exposed rocks at low tide.  The rocks would create little pockets of water which were fun to wade in, and you could also spy the minnows darting around. The tide changes daily, so  check tide reports  if you want to visit at low tide.

After swimming and wading at Wingaersheek, we walked to  Jones Salt Marsh , which was about a mile away. The marsh is a popular boating and fishing destination, but it’s also just a lovely place to watch the sunset.

Many people come to Gloucester to whale watch,  as it’s conveniently located between two feeding grounds. I went on a trip a couple years ago, and it was really cool to see the whales in their natural habitat. If you do go, be sure to choose a responsible operator with a naturalist on board, such as 7 Seas Whale Watch .

Looking to stay longer than a day, and need a place to stay?  You might like this  beach house  that’s only a short walk to Good Harbor or  this apartment  with a great porch view of the harbor.

4. Newburyport

How to get there:  take the Newburyport/Rockport line towards Newburyport Train station in Boston:  North Station Distance:  1 hour 10 minutes

Brick Colonial building with souvenirs for sale in front

Newburyport is a charming, historic city right next to the ocean. The cobblestone streets and colonial architecture take you back to another era.

You can walk and relax along the Waterfront Park , which has benches and shade. After that, walk down State Street and Water Street for local shops and cafes.

Newburyport seemed to be committed to sustainability, as there were many low-waste, Fair Trade, and vegan-friendly places.

I really liked Green House Goods , which was full of zero waste goodies. There was also Sea Bags, which had totes made from used sails.

For food, I had a vegan bowl and cookie at NU Kitchen . The bowl was good and filling, but the cookie was gluten-free so it wasn’t as chewy as I wanted. If you like coffee, Plum Island Coffee has Fair Trade roasts.

For some beautiful colonial architecture, make sure to stroll down Inn Street .

Finally, Plum Island is a popular beach destination. I didn’t find the beach particularly impressive (the water was also super cold and brown), but the area seemed quite lovely and it might be worth going to a different part of the beach (I went to the northernmost point). There’s no public transport here, so you’ll have to take an Uber or rent a bike.

Looking to stay longer than a day, and need a place to stay? Check out this charming 1789 home .

How to get there:  take the Newburyport/Rockport line towards Newburyport Train station in Boston:  North Station Distance:  50 minutes

Beach grass and white sand at Crane Beach on a sunny day

Ipswich is another seaside town best-known for its beaches, farms, and history . The Commuter Rail takes you to the town, and from there, you can explore on foot or take the Ipswich Explorer shuttle .

The Ipswich Explorer costs $1.50 one-way and you can pay via your CharlieCard or in exact change.

The Crane Beach route of the shuttle takes you to to the following places:

  • Crane Beach —beautiful, white-sand beach with a concession stand and bathrooms. The walk-on fee is $2 (which is much better than the $40 parking fee).
  • Russell Orchards —farm with seasonal fruit picking, animals, and local goals for sale.
  • Wolf Hollow —gray wolf sanctuary

There is also an Essex route that will take you to:

  • Essex Shipbuilding Museum
  • Famous seafood restaurants like Woodman’s
  • River cruises and antique shops

The town itself is also quaint and has lovely restaurants and shops. In particular, I liked Sandpiper Bakery , which had a refreshing tofu sandwich and tempting pastries.

Looking to stay longer than a day, and need a place to stay? Stay in this modern home near the beach .

6. Rockport

How to get there:  take the Newburyport/Rockport line towards Rockport Train station in Boston:  North Station Distance:  1 hour 30 minutes

The insta-famous Ice Cream Store in Rockport, MA

Rockport is another seaside village, and it’s just a hop away from Gloucester. You get a totally different vibe from this town though—it feels like more of an artisan’s community. Rockport is perhaps best known for its independent art galleries and local goods. One of the most famous shops is  The Pewter Shop , which offers products made by artists in Boston. The exterior of the shop is a popular photo op, with its red siding and bright blue door.

If you like sweets, you’ll want to stop by  The Ice Cream Store , which has another Instagram-famous façade. There are unfortunately no vegan flavors, but there is shaved ice that should be dairy-free (there are  plenty of vegan ice cream spots in Boston  anyways). There’s also the  Rockport Fudgery , with a lovely pastel storefront.

After walking past all the adorable shops, you’ll find yourself at  Bearskin Neck, a rock-covered peninsula . There’s not much to do there, but there are a couple cafes overlooking the water.

Unlike Gloucester, Rockport isn’t known for its beaches, but there is  Front Beach  just a short walk from the shopping district. On the way there, you might stop by  Bullseye Books—Flyboys,  which offers vintage books; along with the old-time music, you’ll feel like you’re back in the 70s.

Finally, it’s not a trip to Rockport without taking a photo of  Motif No. 1 , a red fishing shack that is reportedly the most-painted building in the world. With the ships in the marina, the fishing shack makes for a lovely seaside scene.

I also want to add that the best time to visit Rockport is in the summer, followed by the spring and fall. In the winter, many shops and restaurants are closed, though you can still find some things to do (I went in January). Just a heads up for y’all!

Looking to stay longer than a day, and need a place to stay?  You might like this  cottage near the town center  or this  quaint beach cottage .

7. Plymouth

How to get there:  take the Kingston line towards Kingston  (NOTE: the Plymouth stop was unfortunately suspended in April 2021 and may not be reinstated . You can, however, take an Uber/Lyft from Kingston for the remaining 5 miles).

Train station in Boston:  South Station Distance:  1 hour 30 minutes

Mayflower II at dusk

You’ve probably heard of Plymouth (also spelled “Plimouth”) from your elementary school history lessons on the Pilgrims. This town is known as being the first landing spot of these English settlers.

For your local history fix, visit the  Plimouth Plantation.  There, you’ll find a  living history exhibit—the Wampanoag Homesite.  There, you’ll be able to see typical 17th-century Wampanoag homes, and Native employees practicing traditional skills like belt weaving. The  Plimouth Plantation website  has a section for how to interact with the Native People in a culturally respectful way.

In a similar vein, you’ll be able to visit a  17th-century living history English settlement.  There will be “Pilgrims” going about their daily lives in historical costumes, and you can speak to these employees to learn more about life as a settler.

Tickets to Plimouth Plantation are a little pricey, but you can also buy a combination ticket that will grant you entry to the  Mayflower II  and  Plimouth Grist Mill . The Mayflower II is a replica of the original Pilgrims’ ship, and the Grist Mill is a reproduction of a 17th-century, water-powered mill.

Before leaving town, take a gander at the original Plymouth Rock. It’s nothing special—it’s literally a small rock with 1620 engraved on it—but it’s kind of cool to see the landing site of the Pilgrims.

Looking to stay longer than a day, and need a place to stay?   Search for available hotels in Plymouth .

8. Manchester-by-the-Sea

How to get there: take the Newbury/Rockport line towards Rockport Train station in Boston:  North Station Distance:  50 minutes

Singing Beach on a cloudy day

Manchester-by-the-Sea is a small, seaside town that was the filming location of the eponymous movie.

The biggest draw of Manchester-by-the-Sea is Singing Beach , a beach that gets its name from the unique sand that creates squeaking sounds when you step on it with enough force (you kind of have to give it a kick while stepping). The beach is unique not only for its sand, but its otherworldly feel. The rocks and trees that line the beach aren’t typical of New England shorelines; in fact, the rocks reminded me of a beach in Montenegro.

The beach is a 20-minute walk from the Commuter Rail station, and the walk-on fee is $10 per person. It’s actually much more convenient to take the Commuter Rail into Manchester-by-the-Sea to go to the beach, as beach parking is expensive and sometimes only open to residents.

The town itself doesn’t have much to offer, besides a few restaurants and a grocery store, but it’s charming. Plus, it’s convenient to grab some snacks on your way to the beach.

Looking to stay longer than a day, and need a place to stay? Stay in this historic apartment in the town center.

9. Wachusett Mountain

How to get there:  take the Fitchburg line towards Wachusett; requires a 10ish minute Uber ride from the Wachusett stop, though there are free weekend morning shuttles during ski season (also some Wednesday afternoons)

Train station in Boston:  North Station Distance:  1 hour 40 minutes

View from Wachusett Mountain ski lift

Waschusett Mountain is probably best-known for its  skiing , but the area offers outdoor activities in all seasons. In warmer months, you can go  hiking  on the mountain, or go  kayaking  in the nearby lakes.

The area is quite rural, so getting around without a car is a little trickier. I’d recommend taking an Uber/Lyft to the mountain from the train station, and then walking around the countryside the rest of the day.

If you time your trip right, you might also be able to catch one of the many festivals on the mountain, featuring great eats and live music. Some popular events include Oktoberfest, Applefest, and Boofest.

I think Wachusett Mountain is probably more fitting for a weekend getaway than a day trip; there’s not a lot to do outside of the mountain, so it’s really a place to unwind. There are also so many cute apartment rentals!

If you’re looking for more places to stay,  you might check out this  house near a lake . Or, you might like this large  lake house with canoes and a grill .

How to get there:  take Lowell line Train station in Boston:  North Station Distance:  40 minutes

A covered bridge across a canal in Lowell, MA

Lowell is a sleepy former industrial town. Its old manufacturing sites were actually turned into the Lowell National Historical Park . You can walk along the canals (or take a boat ride) and visit the water-powered mills and learn about the Industrial Revolution.

Another way Lowell is distinctive is its high Cambodian population, which is the second-largest in the US. In some parts of town, it feels like you’re walking through a different country, thanks to the Southeast Asian grocery shops and locals playing traditional Cambodian games in the parks. If you like Southeast Asian food , you won’t be disappointed. I ate at Simply Khmer and found it good.

Other popular attractions include Mill No. 5 , which is an indoor streetscape with historic storefronts; nowadays the stores range from sweets shops to art stores. In a similar vein, if you like record shops, there are three within a few blocks of each other.

Finally, if you’re a distance runner, you may want to check out the Baystate Marathon and Half Marathon in October. It’s known as a fast and flat course, and I did the half in 2021 and found it well-organized.

Looking to stay longer than a day, and need a place to stay? The UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center is well-located.

Map of These Boston Day Trips by Train

Here’s a map of these day trips so you can situate where they are and potentially plan a couple stops in one day.

I hope you learned about some new places to check out! If you know of other Boston day trips by train, I’d love to hear from you in the comments!

You might also like these posts: Berkshires Travel Guide: An Outdoorsy Weekend Itinerary Best Hikes in Maine’s Acadia National Park

16 thoughts on “ 10 Day Trips from Boston by Train—Local’s Guide ”

wonderful. just what we were looking for, as we are planning a trip to Boston, without a car, and wanted some side-trip options. this is perfect. thank you

So happy it could help!

This was very helpful. Thank you for putting it together.

Where is the best to stay in Boston to be closest to the trains?

You’ll want to be close to North Station or South Station, depending on the places you want to go (different routes start at different stations).

Thank you for the suggestions. I travelled out to Providence and had a great day based on your suggestions.

I’m so glad to hear it! Thank you for letting me know 🙂

Thank you for the information. It was very interesting. We are planning on visiting May 2023

Glad it could help! I hope you enjoy your trip!

I want to go May of 2023 also, I am in need of cost friendly rooms but also want to be near train station and downtown if that’s possible. Help this weary traveler.

Have you seen my post on where to stay in Boston? It may help! https://roamingboston.com/where-to-stay-in-boston/

Wow, this is an amazing post! Thanks to you, I think I’ve just stumbled upon my new favourite library – the Providence Athenaeum. I would love to explore the Athenæum’s storied history, beautiful collections, and Greek Revival building as well as pick up a book or two written by Edgar Allen Poe. Thanks for sharing and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

I’m glad you enjoyed the post! Thanks for stopping by 🙂

Thanks for the great post! I’m planning a trip to Boston soon and this was really helpful. I’m looking forward to taking some of these day trips by train.

What is the easiest way to get from the airport to the north station? We’re spending our first night in Salem after we arrive.

I would recommend taking the Silver Line to South Station and then taking the Orange Line to North Station from there. If you put it into Google Maps, you’ll get real time info on schedules. You can also take an Uber/Lyft. Enjoy Salem!

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Adventures in New England

Adventures in New England

A local's guide to savoring the history, culture, food and nature of the Northeast USA

Cape Cod Canal trail

19 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston

boston day trip reddit

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.

Day trips from Boston

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.

Masschusetts Day Trips

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.

Day trips in MA

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.

short trips from Boston

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.

hike day trips from Boston

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.

Use Boston as a home base to take day trips around New England. Drive to New Hampshire, around Masschusetts, to Connecticut and Rhode Island with these day trips from Boston. #daytripsfromBoston #onedayinNewEngland #USA

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12 thoughts on “19 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston”

I love this list! Boston is such a cool city and I love the idea of spending more time there and venturing out so this list is so helpful!

So many great day trip options from this city! Nice when there is that option, for travellers, it means you can extend your holiday. Make Boston your home base and see some of those smaller towns you have listed. I would love to see more of the nature, in New Hampshire, like Mount Major or Massachusetts with Martha’s Vineyard.

Such great day trip plans even a month of stay there will not suffice to experience it all! The short day trips really sound good and doable. I have not been to Boston yet, but hopefully I will some day with this helpful post! Great pic to go with the post.

Wow! So many things to do. It would really be worthwhile to make Boston a base for a week and do these trips to immerse yourself in the region.

Visiting the east coast has always been something i’ve wanted to do. I’ve seen Boston & DC but that’s about it! Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, Main, I want to see them all!

Funny enough I’ve heard most of these day trips destinations from Boston although I don’t know their locations to Boston. I would like to visit most of them, but I think Fall be the best time?

Some of the locations are close enough for a day trip but would plan an early start in the day because even though they are close enough for a day trip, traffic can play a big factor especially during rush hours… planning a trip to the South Shore or Cape Cod offers only 2 travel lanes for most of the trip once you are on Route 3 which starts in Braintree which is about 9 miles south of Boston and the from Braintree to the beginning of the cape it’s about 45 miles or so… I mention this trip because I am very familiar with this section of MA and I live in Plymouth which is about 10 miles from Cape Cod… The Fall or Spring would be best as far as traffic to the cape but many places close down from Oct to Apr because many businesses depend on tourists during the Summer.

You are right about Boston traffic being a bugger. It is always best to consult Google traffic before leaving, start early or consider public transport. I love travelling in shoulder season.

While there’s still so much to see and do on my actual Boston list, I *did* take a day trip from Boston during one of my visits. We followed your recommendation to visit Providence, RI, and had a lovely day!

I just love the northeast and you’ve given me even more places to explore up there! Perfect fall long weekends!!!

Cape Cod, Massachusetts would be my #1 choice. Haven’t been since I was little and have such fond memories!

I have been to Boston several times now and even took a trip up to Maine & Connecticut once but I have been quite lax on visiting the other areas. For me, I really want to see more of the New England Coastal areas like Providence and I know Darcee would love to see Martha’s Vineyard!

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15 Best Day Trips from Boston MA

  • Boston / In the City / Massachusetts / Outdoors / USA

Looking for an adventure outside of Boston? Check out these awesome day trips.

Boston is a city full of history and culture, and as one of the major cities in the northeast, it has plenty to explore on its own. But sometimes it’s also nice to have a getaway from the city. Whether you’re looking to explore charming coastal towns or take a hike in nature, here are the best day trips from Boston that highlight why the northeast is such a special place.

15 Amazing Day Trips from Boston

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Last Updated: October 13, 2023

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  • Best Day Trips from Boston
  • More Boston Day Trips Under 3 Hours

Map of the Best Day Trips from Boston

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Planning Checklist

More resources, 15 amazing day trips from boston, 1. concord, ma.

58 Main St, Concord, MA 01742,   map

Distance:  20.3 mi / 32 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Minute Man National Historical Park, Walden Pond, Orchard House What to Eat:   Salt & Light Café ,  Smack Noodle ,  Atlantic Sea Grill

The American Revolutionary War began in Concord, MA, in 1775. The famous ‘shot heard around the world’ was fired at the North Bridge. It is now home to the Minute Man National Historical Park (a  national park unit ). Here you can visit the famous site and drive along Battle Road following Paul Revere’s ride to where he was captured by the British.

You can also tour the Orchard House, home to Louisa May Alcott, who wrote the novel, Little Women. If you are still in the literary mood, a 5-minute drive out of Concord takes you to Walden Pond made famous by Henry David Thoreau, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk around its tranquil waters.

Boston to Concord MA

2. Salem, MA

2 New Liberty St, Salem, MA 01970,  map

Distance:  24.8 mi / 34 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  The Witch House, House of the Seven Gables, Peabody Essex Museum What to Eat:   Turners Seafood ,  Flying Saucer Pizza Company ,  Ugly Mug Diner

Everyone has either seen a production of The Crucible or read it thanks to high school English, which fictionalizes the Salem Witch Trials that took place in the 1600s. Even though Salem has a reputation as a Halloween destination, there’s plenty to do year-round. We drove up with our Boston friends to check out yet another lobster roll at Turners Seafood.

For US history lovers, a visit to Salem must include a stop at The Witch House, where many “witches” were tried. You can also check out the Old Burying Point Cemetery, one of the oldest cemeteries in the US, and see the burial site for Judge John Hathorne, a prominent judge in the Witch Trials.

Not only do you learn about the history of the Salem Witch Trials, but you can also learn about the history of slavery on a tour of the House of the Seven Gables, a stop on the Underground Railroad. If you’re an art lover, visit the Peabody Essex Museum and see their collection of American and Asian art.

boston day trip reddit

3. Rockport, MA

Bradley Wharf, Rockport, MA 01966,  map

Distance:  43 mi / 50 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Motif Number 1, Halibut Point, Stroll through the shops What to Eat:   Roy Moore Lobster ,  Feather & Wedge ,  Red Skiff

Rockport is a seacoast village on Cape Ann under an hour away, which makes it the perfect easy day trip from Boston. You can drive here or take the train, but I will say when we drove, we circled a while before we could find parking.

In Rockport, it’s hard to miss Roy Moore Lobster Co with its long lines. We’ve been trying lobster rolls all over New England, and this one was one of our favorites. They do not skimp on the lobster! It truly felt like a getaway, as we ate heartily in the lively atmosphere as we watched the fisherman carry in the live lobster. The rest of the day, we spent walking along the wharf and browsing the cute shops.

Rockport MA is one of the easiest one day trips from Boston

4. Providence, RI

1 Sabin St, Providence, RI 02903,  map

Distance:  50.9 mi / 56 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  John Brown House, Benefit Street, Providence Athenaeum, Roger Williams Park What to Eat:   Providence Coal Fired Pizza ,  Waterman Grille ,  Tallulah’s Taqueria

When it comes to US history, Rhode Island is sorely overlooked. A visit to the state’s capital, Providence, is easily one of the best day trips from Boston, especially since they’ve gone through a renaissance and have become a Creative Capital.

For a small city, it has a big art scene. If you’re here on the third Thursday, you can join Gallery Night, where you get access to 21 free galleries and museums. The downtown area is also filled with unique boutiques making window shopping an absolute delight (don’t forget to stop in at the Arcade, the oldest shopping mall in America).

Also as one of the oldest cities in the US, you can hear about the city’s (and the US’) history during a tour of the John Brown House. Afterward, walk down Benefit Street, and take in the stunning historical homes.

The Providence Athenaeum is an architecturally stunning library that is still used by the locals. You can also take a leisurely stroll outdoors at the Roger Williams Park. This 435-acre park is also home to the Museum of Natural History and Roger Williams Park Zoo.

Local Tip: Go during WaterFire, a fire sculpture installation on the rivers in downtown Providence. It runs May through November on Saturday evenings twice a month. – Hsiao

Providence RI + Best Holiday Destinations in August

5. Manchester, NH

775 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03101,  map

Distance:  52.6 mi / 58 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Currier Museum of Art, Frank Lloyd Wright Houses, Bear Brook State Park What to Eat:   Republic Café & Bistro ,  Daw Kun Thai ,  Mr. Mac’s

Once a booming mill town, Manchester, NH combines everything that makes New England special: art, architecture, and the great outdoors.

Not only does the Currier Museum of Art include a large collection of European and American paintings, sculptures, and photographs, but it also serves as the starting point for the Frank Lloyd Wright house tours. You can tour both the Zimmerman and Kalil Houses, which are the only Frank Lloyd Wright houses open to the public in New England.

After spending the morning in the city, a short drive from the city center is Bear Brooks State Park, the largest state park in New Hampshire. With 40-miles of trails of varying difficulty, you can enjoy plenty of fresh air. Popular trails include the Bear Brook Trail, a shaded trail that follows the brook, and the Catamount Trail with amazing views from the top.

Piscataquog Trail Manchester NH + 15 Incredible Day Trips from Boston MA

6. Cape Cod, MA

41.6863132,-70.2905854,  map

Distance:  70 mi / 1h 21 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Cape Cod National Seashore, Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, JFK Hyannis Museum What to Eat:  Old Yarmouth Inn ,  Firestarter Pizza ,  Royal II

You can almost smell the ocean when you hear the words Cape Cod, but this summer destination is much more than the beach.

If it’s the beach you are looking for, then head to the Cape Cod National Seashore with its 40 miles of shoreline. Or at the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, you can spend the day wildlife viewing, fishing, and hiking. Be sure to check out the many lighthouses in the area too. I’ve always had a thing for lighthouses.

One of Cape Cod’s most famous residents was the 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy. In Hyannis, you can visit the museum dedicated to the man, his family, and his connection to the area. Edward Gorey is another famous resident, author, and illustrator. Take a tour of his house to learn more about his life and work. All these things make Cape Cod an ideal day trip from Boston.

nobska lighthouse cape cod + 15 best day trips from boston

7. Newport, RI

23 America’s Cup Ave, Newport, RI 02840,  map

Distance:  72.1 mi / 1h 22 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Mansions Tour, Cliff Walk, Intl Tennis Hall of Fame What to Eat:  Corner Café ,  Brick Alley Pub ,  Mission

Once the summer playground for the rich, Newport transports visitors to the grandeur of the past. Touring the many mansions like Marble House and The Breakers can take all day. If you get mansion overload, you can go enjoy the ocean air while walking the picturesque Cliff Walk. If you’re a tennis lover, don’t miss the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

Castle Hill Newport RI Lighthouse

8. Martha’s Vineyard, MA

29 Church St, Edgartown, MA 02539,  map

Distance:  72.5 mi / 1h 16 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Aquinnah Cliffs (Gay Head), Oak Bluffs, Edgartown What to Eat:   The Red Cat Kitchen ,  Little House Café ,  Waterside Market

Hopping on the ferry at Falmouth, MA, Martha’s Vineyard makes one of the most delightful day trips from Boston. After arriving on the island, take the bus to explore the charming towns.

In Oak Bluffs, enjoy a ride on the oldest carousel in the US and marvel at the gingerbread cottages. In Edgartown, you can enjoy the sophisticated town filled with historic homes and its beaches and lighthouses.

But you can’t leave Martha’s Vineyard without taking in the iconic view at the Aquinnah Cliffs overlook. Afterward, soak in the sun’s rays on the tranquil beaches nearby.

Local Tip: They limit the number of cars on the island, so it’s fun to rent a scooter to get around the island. Menemsha Beach is a great spot to watch the sunset – Hsiao.

9. Kennebunkport, ME

16 Water St, Kennebunk, ME 04043,  map

Distance:  89.6 mi / 1h 29 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Goose Rocks Beach, Goat Island Lighthouse What to Eat:  Village Tavern ,  The Lobster Shack ,  Hurricane Restaurant

The coastal town of Kennebunkport has a long tradition of fishing and shipbuilding. Going into Cape Porpoise, you can still see fisherman coming and going with their catch and nets. You can also relax and enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean from the white sand beach of Goose Rocks Beach.

But, when in Kennebunkport, it’s best to not stay on land as the sea is in the heart of the town. Various boat tours take visitors out on the Atlantic where you can soak in the views, go whale watching, or even learn how to haul in lobsters.

boston day trip reddit

10. Mount Holyoke Range State Park, MA

1500 West St, Amherst, MA 01002,  map

Distance:  93.3 mi / 1h 36 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:   Hiking Trails, Summit View What to Eat:   Frontera Grill ,  Hillside Pizza ,  Master Chef

Looking to spend the entire day outdoors? This 3,000-acre state park features 30 miles of trails passing through wetlands, woods, streams, and a 7-mile ridgeline.

One of the best hikes to do at Mount Holyoke is the Seven Sisters Trail. This moderate, 8-mile trail provides summit after summit and ends at the Summit House with amazing views of the Connecticut River and Pioneer Valleys.

If you are looking for a shorter hike, a trek up Mount Norwottuck (3.4 miles) provides you with views over the Pioneer Valley too.

11. Deerfield, MA

Old Main St, Deerfield, MA 01342,  map

Distance:  94.1 mi / 1h 52 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Historic Deerfield, Mount Sugarloaf What to Eat:   Hillside Pizza ,  The Lady Killigrew Café ,  Hope & Café

Ever wonder what life was like in the 1800s? You can step back in time by touring the historic houses and museums in Historic Deerfield.

If you love the outdoors, you can take in the views of the Connecticut River Valley from the summit of Mount Sugarloaf. To get to the summit, you have the option of driving or hiking up via the Pocumtuck Ridge Trail.

12. Portland, ME →

84 Exchange St, Portland, ME 04101,  map

Distance:  112 mi / 1h 43 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:   Portland Head Lighthouse , The Historic House Museum, The Old Port What to Eat:   Hot Suppa ,  The Highrolller Lobster ,  Duckfat

Nestled along the shores of Casco Bay, Portland is full of historic charm and atmosphere. Venture to the iconic  Portland Head Lighthouse , the oldest lighthouse in Maine.

Stroll along the Old Port with its cobblestone streets and trendy stores, and admire the pre-Civil War architecture and design of the Victoria Mansion at the Historic House Museum.

Portland Maine was my very first day trip from Boston. I still have fond memories of my girls-only trip, where we spent the day visiting lighthouses and eating lobster.

Next, we need to check out the seaside hiking trails of the Fort William Park or hop on a ferry to explore the six islands of Casco Bay.

See More: 5 Beautiful Lighthouses in Portland Maine

boston day trip reddit

13. The Berkshires, MA

42.166815,-73.1583548,  map

Distance:  123 mi / 2h 8 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Jacob Ladder’s Scenic Byway, Monument Mountain What to Eat:  Comfort Kitchen & Bar ,  Chester Common Table ,  Brava

To experience the best of the Berkshires, plan on a day trip in fall to see the changing colors of the leaves. That is not to say that summer isn’t worth visiting. If you love a good scenic road trip, follow the Jacob Ladder’s Scenic Byway through the foothills of the Berkshires. It’s a glorious 35-mile scenic drive.

If you want to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the landscape, take a hike up to the top of Monument Mountain. Standing at 1,642 feet, there are several trail options to get to the top with stunning views over the Housatonic River Valley.

Berkshires Fall Foliage + 15 Best Places to Visit in September in USA

14. Stockbridge, MA

42.3036962,-73.3619899,  map

Distance:  131 mi / 2h 5 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Norman Rockwell Museum, Chesterwood, Naumkeag, The Mount What to Eat:   Once Upon a Table ,  Pleasant and Main ,  Berkshire Mountain Bakery

Norman Rockwell’s illustrations define Americana to this day, and you can find the largest collection of his original work at the Normal Rockwell Museum.

Another symbol of America is the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. At Chesterwood, you can tour the home of the sculptor, Daniel Chester French. If you love touring old mansions, check out Naumkeag, which was built in 1886 and designed by the famed architect Stanford White. There are also large gardens to enjoy.

Less than 15-minutes away is The Mount, the home to famed writer Edith Wharton. You can take tours of the house and gardens designed by Edith Wharton.

15. White Mountains, NH

44.1643949,-71.4413121,  map

Distance:  137 mi / 2h 2 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  The Flume, Cannon Aerial Tram, Mount Lafayette What to Eat:   Black Mtn Burger Co ,  Flapjack’s Pancake House ,  Sunny Day Diner

The White Mountains in New Hampshire offer a variety of activities for families and adventurers. While basking in the landscape of the Franconia Notch State Park, you can explore the Flume, a gorge full of waterfalls. Or, take in views from above on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.

If you love hiking, a challenging but massively rewarding hike is Mount Lincoln and Mount Lafayette ridgeline to take in views.

We took a detour here on the way back from Acadia, and unfortunately, it was a few days late for the foliage. Apparently, it was one of the best years for foliage too.

Kancamagus Highway White Mountains New Hampshire + 15 Beautiful Short Day Trips from Boston

More Boston Day Trip Ideas Under 3 Hours

  • Quincy, MA (11.7 mi / 21 min,  map )
  • Lowell, MA (30.1 mi / 33 min,  map )
  • Plymouth, MA (40.5 mi / 42 min,  map )
  • Springfield, MA (90.0 mi / 1 hr 29 min,  map )
  • Amherst, MA (94.3 mi / 1 hr 44 min,  map )
  • Hartford, CT (101 mi /  1 hr 35 min,  map )
  • Mount Greylock (154 mi, 2 hr 55 min,  map )
  • Bish Bash Falls State Park (160 mi / 2 hr 36 min,  map )

boston day trip reddit

Best Places to Stay in Boston

  • Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
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  • Arrange a rental car for your trip.
  • Get airport lounge access .
  • Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
  • Get a new backpack for your trip.
  • Buy a New England travel guide .
  • Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
  • Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
  • Rand McNally Road Atlas
  • New England Travel Guide

How many of these day trips from Boston have you done? Any others we should add to our list?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

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Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Marks the Return of Spring with Annual Art in Bloom Celebration of Art and Flowers

A bright and colorful floral arrangement sits in front of the abstract painting that inspired its composition.

Friday, April 26–Sunday, April 28, 2024

2024 Lineup Includes 45 Art-Inspired Floral Arrangements, Guided Tours, and Special Guest Semia Dunne

BOSTON (March 5, 2024)—The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), celebrates the return of spring with its 48th-annual Art in Bloom celebration from Friday, April 26, through Sunday, April 28. For more than four decades, the beloved event has paired art from the MFA’s collection—from ancient to contemporary—with floral interpretations created by volunteer and professional floral designers. In addition to 45 interpretive arrangements, highlights of this year’s celebration include two master classes with Semia Dunne, founder and president of SEMIA, one the nation’s premier floral enterprises. Dunne has been recognized as one of the nation’s top floral designers by Martha Stewart Weddings and one of the 125 most exciting floral artists in North America by Florists Review Magazine .

Art in Bloom launches at the Museum with a special preview of freshly installed arrangements on Thursday, April 25. Group tours will begin on Friday, and advance registration is required. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy free guided tours of arrangements throughout the galleries (included with Museum admission) and stop by the Garden Cart for unique gifts and treasures and take-home flower arrangements. MFA members enjoy an exclusive viewing of Art in Bloom during Member Night on Saturday, April 27. Attendees can also experience the Museum’s major spring exhibition Hallyu! The Korean Wave (opening March 24), as well as Dress Up (opening April 13), which highlights the Museum’s fashion and jewelry collection. Visitors are encouraged to share their best floral photos on social media with #mfaInBloom.

Art in Bloom is included with general admission and tickets can be purchased in advance on mfa.org or at the door. Tickets and reservations for private group tours and self-guided group tours are available on mfa.org beginning March 5; tickets for master classes are available beginning April 2. Art in Bloom is presented by the MFA Associates, a group of dedicated volunteers who create the Museum’s flower arrangements throughout the year.

Art in Bloom is supported by Arbella Insurance Foundation and Yellow Wood Partners.

Schedule of Activities

Preview day.

Thursday, April 25 (All Day)

Art in Bloom launches with a preview of freshly installed arrangements, giving visitors their first opportunity to discover this year’s art and arrangement pairings.

Group Visits

Friday, April 26–Sunday, April 28 (All Day)

Private one-hour group tours and self-guided group tours are offered Friday through Sunday, and advance registration is required. Group visits will be available to reserve on mfa.org beginning March 5.

Garden Cart

Friday, April 28–Sunday, April 30 (All Day)

Throughout the weekend, visitors are invited to shop for unique gifts and treasures in the Shapiro Family Courtyard at the Garden Cart, known for its fresh flower-filled teacups.

Free Guided Tours

Saturday, April 27–Sunday, April 28 (All Day)

Throughout the weekend, MFA Associates and other volunteers will lead free, guided tours featuring five to seven floral interpretations (included with Museum admission).

Member Night

Saturday, April 27 (6–9 pm)

Members and their guests enjoy an exclusive viewing of Art in Bloom with free guided tours, shopping at the Garden Cart and dining in the Koch gallery and Shapiro Courtyard. Members can also join theo tyson, Penny Vinik Curator of Fashion Arts, for gallery talks in the exhibition Dress Up with special guest Thom Solo, Boston-based artist and shoe designer whose work is featured in the exhibition. Member Night includes access to Hallyu! The Korean Wave . Advance registration is required; tickets are free for members and will be available on mfa.org beginning April 2.

Master Classes with Semia Dunne

Saturday, April 27 (10:30 am–12:30 pm and 2–4 pm)

In a two-hour session, attendees can create their own masterpiece with unique spring florals, led by master florist Semia Dunne from Providence, Rhode Island ($275 for members; $295 for nonmembers). Advance registration is required and tickets will be available to purchase on mfa.org beginning April 2.

About the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

The MFA brings many worlds together through art. Showcasing masterpieces from ancient to modern, our renowned collection of nearly 500,000 works tells a multifaceted story of the human experience—a story that holds unique meaning for everyone. From Boston locals to international travelers, visitors from all over come to experience the MFA—where they reveal connections, explore differences and create a community where all belong.

Open six days a week, the MFA’s hours are Saturday through Monday, 10 am–5 pm; Wednesday, 10 am–5 pm; and Thursday–Friday, 10 am–10 pm. Plan your visit at mfa.org .

Sarah Drumm 617-369-3045 [email protected]

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  6. The 11 BEST Things to do in BOSTON (Travel Guide 2023)

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  1. Ideas for a potential day trip to Boston : r/boston

    Head on in to Faneuil Hall. Wander around for approximately 5 minutes. Congrats you have seen Faneuil hall. Take a pic or two and post them online. Go to the Dunks at 20 North St and grab an iced coffee. Next you want to see Beacon Hill. Wander up Cambridge St and then poke around Beacon Hill.

  2. Booked a flight for an 8-9 day trip to spend time in Boston ...

    My thoughts are to spend 2.5 days in Boston, the main wants to see here are historical sights along Freedom Trail, harbor for the tea party, & a day trip to check out Salem. After the time in Boston planning on driving up to Acadia National Park for 2.5 days.

  3. Things to do in Boston : r/boston

    Great for a picnic if the weather is good. - The "freedom trail" is a 2-ish mile walk through downtown that goes past a variety of historic locations and pretty parts of the city. Great if you haven't seen much of Boston before. - The South End, Beacon Hill, and the North End are great historic, pretty areas to explore on foot and all have ...

  4. I have one day in Boston

    The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. If you don't visit on a free day or have a CityPASS or Go Boston Card, expect to pay $25 to enter. Children 17 and younger get in for free on weekdays after 3 p.m. and on weekends, while students, seniors and travelers with recent Isabella ...

  5. Day trips from Boston : r/boston

    There are ferries from Boston to P town. I love the PTown ferry. The actual ferry ride is about 90 minutes each way and beautiful - you can sit in the open air, look at the water, read, etc. Ptown itself is a great area to explore on foot (or bike), you can rent a kayak, sit on the beach, and there's plenty of good food.

  6. Visiting Boston next week! What MUST I do/see/experience/eat?

    What MUST I do/see/experience/eat? : r/boston. Visiting Boston next week! What MUST I do/see/experience/eat? Hello! I am visiting Boston from out-of-state, and I am in need of advice on what to do during my short visit. I am a college student with a background in science and interests in art, different cultures, and coffee. Please give me some ...

  7. Questions for a trip to Boston, MA : r/solotravel

    4 days in Boston. Day 3 or 4 could be a day trip to Provincetown or Salem. Day 4, travel to Providence, for 2 nights, on day 6, maybe make a day trip to Newport. And, hopefully you like seafood! I can't think about this region without yearning for a plate of Stuffies (a RI speciality) or a dozen Wellfleets or a lobster roll...

  8. Day trips from Boston? : r/boston

    Salem, Rockport, Portsmouth, Kennebunkport, and Portland are all worthy day trips to the north. Newport is probably your best bet to the south (cliff walk looks to be closed though). 20. snaxsnaxsnaxsnax. • 2 yr. ago.

  9. 12 Most EPIC Boston Day Trips

    For a day trip from Boston, Martha's Vineyard offers a laid-back vibe, quaint coastal villages, and no fewer than five lighthouses ensuring safe passage for ships off the rocky coastline. You can spend your day on one of the incredible unspoiled beaches, relaxing away from busy city life. Definitely make time for some delicious seafood with a ...

  10. 17 Best Day Trips from Boston for Locals & Visitors

    2. Portland, ME. Maine's largest city, located about a two-hour drive north of Boston, attracts food lovers from around the country to its cobblestone streets. Wander the charming, hilly Old Port ...

  11. How to Spend One Perfect Day in Boston, MA (Itinerary + Tips!)

    Start your morning in the Boston Public Garden. The Boston Public Garden is one of our favorite places in the city and the perfect place to kick off your day in Boston. The garden is quiet and beautiful, and it's a great place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy a bit of peace in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city. READ NEXT.

  12. 10 Best Day Trips from Boston by Train 2024 (Using the MBTA Weekend

    Train station in Boston: North Station. Distance: 30 minutes. 2. Providence (RI) The capital city of Rhode Island is a quick train ride over from Boston. The Commuter Rail station drops you off in the middle of downtown and has extensive public bus transportation though the city is very walkable.

  13. 3 Days in Boston: The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary for Boston, Massachusetts

    It's the best way to say goodbye to an amazing 3 days in Boston! Yankee Lobster | Address: 300 Northern Ave, Boston, MA. 3 days in Boston is definitely not enough to explore all of this historic city, but it's enough for a great introduction to beautiful Boston. Original photo credit: " Boston Skyline " by wuestenigel.

  14. The Perfect 3 Days in Boston Itinerary (2024 Update)

    The 1-day costs $12.75 and the 7-day runs $22.50, so it's actually a good deal even though you're only spending a short time in the city. Head here to read more about the various options for getting around Boston. Read Next: Don't forget to plan to enjoy some of the best Boston day trips! Boston CityPASS

  15. 35+ Amazing Day Trips From Boston Massachusetts

    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.

  16. Boston in 5 Days: A Journey Through History and Culture

    The fourth day is a blend of commerce and marine life as you spend an hour at Quincy Market and 2 hours at the New England Aquarium. Conclude your trip on Day 5 by walking the Freedom Trail for 2 hours, delving into naval history at the USS Constitution Museum for another 2 hours, and paying homage to the past at the Bunker Hill Monument.

  17. The 5 Best Day Trips from Boston to Explore Greater New England

    1. Cambridge, Lexington, and Concord. Though among the short day trips from Boston (the entire tour is under 5 hours), the American History Tour and its stops to Cambridge, Lexington, and Concord brings incredible excitement to American history nerds and novices alike. The tour begins by traversing the Charles River to Cambridge, where ...

  18. 19 of the Best Day Trips from Boston by Car or by Train (or Boat!)

    A fun day trip from Boston to Portland is a great option if you love coastal towns with tons of boutiques, shops, and restaurants. The Amtrak Downeaster leaves from North Station and takes 2.5 hours to reach Portland. Grab the first train out in the morning and enjoy breakfast on board, then spend the whole afternoon enjoying Portland! ...

  19. 22 best winter day trips from Boston

    Best winter day trips from Boston. Photograph: Courtesy Omni Mount Washington Resort. 1. Bretton Woods, NH. Located in the White Mountains National Forest, New Hampshire's stunning Bretton Woods ...

  20. 10 Day Trips from Boston by Train—Local's Guide

    This doesn't cost you any extra, and it's a great way to support my blog. 1. Providence, RI. How to get there: take the Providence/Stoughton line towards Wickford Junction. Train station in Boston: South Station, Back Bay, Ruggles. Distance: 1 hour. The Providence Athenaeum. Waterfire, a Providence classic.

  21. THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Boston (from $16)

    2,158. Boston is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Boston, MA directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 738,227 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Boston to various destinations.

  22. 19 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston

    Whole Day Trips from Boston. It will take about 2 hours to get to these full-day trips from Boston. Cliffs of Aquinnah, Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts 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.

  23. 12 AMAZING Day Trips from Boston (Under a 2hr drive!)

    Travel Time From Boston: 50 minutes on a ferry, or 35 minutes if driving. Known as Witch City, Salem is one of the top places to visit in New England in October for its Haunted Happenings event, which is definitely an exciting time to visit. However, much of Salem's appeal can be enjoyed year-round, making this a fantastic choice for a day trip from Boston.

  24. 15 Best Day Trips from Boston MA » Local Adventurer

    15 Amazing Day Trips from Boston. 1. Concord, MA. 58 Main St, Concord, MA 01742, map. Distance: 20.3 mi / 32 min ( map) Things You Can't Miss: Minute Man National Historical Park, Walden Pond, Orchard House. What to Eat: Salt & Light Café , Smack Noodle , Atlantic Sea Grill.

  25. 2024 Honda Prologue Officially Qualifies For $7,500 Federal ...

    Posted by u/SeaworthinessOk4828 - 24 votes and 16 comments

  26. Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Marks the Return of Spring with Annual Art

    2024 Lineup Includes 45 Art-Inspired Floral Arrangements, Guided Tours, and Special Guest Semia Dunne. BOSTON (March 5, 2024)—The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), celebrates the return of spring with its 48th-annual Art in Bloom celebration from Friday, April 26, through Sunday, April 28. For more than four decades, the beloved event has ...