downtown boston day trip

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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:

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).

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!).

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!

… 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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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).

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.

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.

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).

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.

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!

… 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.

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.

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).

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.

About 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.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Awesome, you're subscribed!

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

The best of Boston for free.

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

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

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

Love the mag?

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

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

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 16 best day trips from Boston

Take a break from city life and visit these nearby New England destinations—no packing required

While many of us could easily spend every waking moment in Boston, it can be refreshing to escape the city for 24 hours or so. Fortunately, this picturesque New England region offers an array of potential day trips from Boston, including quaint seaside villages, historic towns and stunning mountain vistas. So grab your pals or significant other, and hop on a ferry, train or automobile to one of these lovely destinations. Once you're back in town, you'll once again feel ready to take advantage of the  best Boston attractions ,  best free things to do in Boston  and  best museums in Boston . And when you need a little longer time away check out our list of the best weekend getaways in New England . RECOMMENDED: The Best Hotels in Boston

An email you’ll actually love

Best day trips from Boston

1.  Newport, RI

The Newport mansions of the Gilded Age still impress with their grandeur—just as they were built to do. If you have time to only tour one estate, check out The Breakers . Near the International Tennis Hall of Fame , the Audrain Auto Museum houses a seasonally rotating display of incredible cars inside a gorgeous Art Deco building.

Take the Cliff Walk, which has stunning views of the ocean, or relax at the public Easton’s Beach . Stroll past cool shops and eateries on narrow Thames Street. On Marlborough Street, dine at the White Horse Tavern , which claims to be America’s oldest restaurant, or duck over to The Reef at Howard Wharf for dinner and drinks with a view. Near the harbor, Bowen’s Wharf’s buildings date back to the 1700s, now offering an inviting maze of restaurants and shops. Stroll over the causeway to Goat Island where the Newport Harbor Lighthouse is overlooked by the upscale Gurney’s Resort.

2.  Portland, ME

​​Maine's largest city, located about a two-hour drive north of Boston, attracts epicureans from around the country to its cobblestone streets. Wander the charming, hilly Old Port district, where every kind of boutique imaginable touts colorful wares. Pop into one of the many quaint pubs and dimly lit cocktail bars, like the excellent Jewel Box or Blyth & Burrows —the latter of which pairs the best in innovative mixology with equally scrumptious small plates. In the West End arts district, enjoy the I.M. Pei-designed Portland Museum of Art and the State Theatre , which hosts national acts, both musical, comedic and theatrical.

The food scene here lives up to the hype:   Cong Tu Bot for nationally celebrated Vietnamese fare;  Green Elephant for an inventive vegetarian meal;   Evo Kitchen + Bar for progressive twists on Mediterranean cooking; or  Union , a vibrant locavore haunt located at  The Press Hotel , whose historic building was formerly the home of the Portland Press Herald.

3.  Newburyport, MA

The Newburyport Historic District, which encompasses most of the downtown, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This treasure trove of well-preserved, Federal-period architecture includes the notable Cushing House Museum & Garden , home of statesman Caleb Cushing, and the Custom House Maritime Museum , which also unravels local history. The beautiful Waterfront Park and boardwalk has regular concerts during warmer months.

Catch a play or see a show at the Firehouse Center for the Arts , grab a gourmet sandwich and bottle of wine at Joppa Fine Foods ,  relax with excellent cocktails and modern Middle Eastern bites at Bar25 ,  dine on classic seafood at The Black Cow  or head to the Newburyport Brewing Company ,  offering a friendly tap room and beer garden.

Newburyport includes part of neighboring, sedate Plum Island , a barrier island overlooking salt marshes.

4.  Gloucester, MA

Shipbuilders and fishermen put Gloucester on the map, and both industries still exist there today —just  on a smaller scale. The Fishermen’s Memorial on Gloucester Harbor honors all those lost at sea, including the Andrea Gale and its crew, the real-life victims of The Perfect Storm . Check out the Cape Ann Museum , which has an amazing collection of art and artifacts specific to Gloucester and its surroundings.

Across narrow Main Street, you can savor straight-off-the boat seafood at the chic basement restaurant  Tonno . Oak to Ember  will impress with its menu of hearty, wood-fire-cooked dishes and thoughtful cocktails. Or, if you're more about ocean views, head to the Beauport Hotel , whose 1606 Restaurant has a great deck overlooking the water. Next door to the hotel, Beauport Cruise Lines offers seasonal jaunts around the harbor.

5.  Salem, MA

Salem is forever linked to its horrifying and fascinating 1692 Witch Trials. The curious flock to the home of presiding Judge Corwin, which today is a museum known as The Witch House . Halloween is a big thing here—so are new age and cult shops. On a less spooky note, the Peabody Essex Museum houses a wonderful art collection, and Salem is the birthplace of Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of The House of the Seven Gables. You can even tour the house he may have been writing about, the 350-year-old Turner-Ingersoll Mansion.

Though it only dates back to 1930, Pioneer Village —a 10-minute drive from downtown, in Forest River Park—reenacts early 17th-century colonial life. Eat like a local at Ledger or Settler , or nerd out with old school arcade games and pinball machines at Bit Bar . 

6.  Provincetown, MA

Creative, sassy P-Town—located only a 90-minute ferry ride from Boston—is an artsy LGBT hotspot. It’s got a great mix of galleries, restaurants and nightlife hangouts. Lined with dozens of colorful shops, friendly eateries and local businesses, Commercial Street is the bustling heart of the town. Seek out one of the many events and festivals that fuel the thriving arts scene.

The famous and seasonal  Lobster Pot is the biggest name in town for classic lobster rolls and fresh seafood treats. Climb the 252-foot granite Pilgrim Monument for dramatic harbor views, then escape to Race Point Beach to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the open ocean.

Eat innovative seasonal dishes at Strangers & Saints and great seafood at Mac’s Fish House , which has crispy fish and chips and Happy Hour dollar oysters. Explore the beautifully barren Outer Cape’s stretch of the Cape Cod National Seashore , including Truro’s picturesque Highland Light .

7.  Ogunquit, ME

Set on the breathtaking Maine coast, Ogunquit is a popular, classic beach town with a quiet ambiance, particularly in the cooler months when crowds disappear. But it’s also a historic arts community; the Ogunquit Museum of American Art was started in the 1950s by native artist Henry Strater, a student of Ogunquit’s Perkins Cove artists colony.

Wander the galleries around town, explore the Barn Gallery on Shore Road and get tickets to a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse —which boasts eight decades of professional theatre and summertime children’s productions—or another summer stock theater.

8.  Watch Hill, RI

A coastal village that’s part of the town of Westerly, Watch Hill has one of the best beaches on the East Coast, and celebrity glamour to spare. Get to town early and take a walk out on the Napatree Point Conservation Area , where  you’ll find the remains of Fort Mansfield and lots of beautiful birds like osprey and piping plovers.

After your nature walk, head into the charming town for a stroll and some shopping. The kids will love the vintage carousel, and be sure to have lunch at the Olympia Tea Room (supposedly Taylor Swift’s fave—you can take a peek at her house from afar, too, because it’s hard to miss). Finish the day with cocktails at the gorgeous Ocean House , where you can have a drink and a bite to eat.

9.  Concord, MA

Stroll to the Old North Bridge and explore the Minute Man National Historical Park’s five-mile Battle Road Trail, dedicated to the Battle of Concord (April 19, 1775), where militia engaged with British troops and ignited the Revolutionary War. The 19th-century Transcendentalist movement and its influential authors and thinkers—Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau and Bronson Alcott—were rooted in Concord, and the Concord Museum is a good place to connect the dots. Located just outside of Concord Center are Walden Pond , which honors Thoreau’s famed naturalist journal, and Orchard House , where Louisa May Alcott wrote Little Women 150 years ago.

Pick up a picnic lunch at The Concord Cheese Shop . The Saltbox Kitchen’s tasty dishes and small-batch brewery are both fueled by produce from its nearby Saltbox Farm. For dinner, Woods Hill Table  also sources from their own farm at Woods Hill in Bath, NH, and the sleek, seasonally-focused 80 Thoreau is worth the day trip alone.

10.  Providence, RI

Providence is a foodie’s dream. Why does this small capital city have so much kitchen talent? Nearby Johnson & Wales University’s College of Culinary Arts is a major factor. Hemenway’s downtown is the grand dame of area seafood restaurants;  Waterman Grille is a vibrant jewel on the East Side near Brown University; and Aleppo Sweets is a lauded Syrian bakery and cafe—just to name a few spots. Federal Hill, the city’s impressive Italian neighborhood, is also loaded with Italian eateries and shops. 

Waterplace Park is a lovely gathering spot, and it anchors the city’s annual WaterFire program, which runs from spring through late fall; braziers along the Providence River are lit at sunset and stoked with aromatic wood by black-clad figures on boats, while themed music plays.

Providence is home to the notable Trinity Repertory Company , and The Strand Ballroom & Theatre, one of the nation’s best rock venues. The Rhode Island School of Design’s museum includes one the country’s finest university art collections.

11.  Mystic, CT

Settled in 1654, Mystic was once a shipbuilding seaport village. Now, it's a quintessential New England town, packed with mom-and-pop shops and activities for the whole family to do. 

During warm weather, spend a few hours on the sea with a day sail or sunset cruise from Argia Mystic Cruises , or visit the famous Mystic Aquarium or the Mystic Seaport Museum .  

After working up an appetite, stroll through the village to see the famous weighted Bascule bridge . P ick up a sweet treat from award winning Sift Bake Shop  and  splurge on a Connecticut lobster roll at the The Shipwright's Daughter  or a hearty, grass-fed burger at the Engine Room .  And, if you must eat pizza in Mystic, head to Nana’s Bakery and Pizza for inventive takes on personal pies.

12.  Falmouth, MA

Falmouth is nestled on the southwestern part of Cape Cod, 20 miles south of the Sagamore Bridge. Lined with great beaches, cool boutiques and relaxing spots to eat and drink, it's also one of The Cape’s easiest towns to get to. Do breakfast or lunch like a local at The Pickle Jar Kitchen .

The Falmouth Museums on the Green brings 1700s Cape Cod to life; the Federalist home of Dr. Francis Wicks is wonderfully preserved and packed with original artifacts. The Shining Sea Bike Trail ,  which hugs the coast and brings you past lovely views of both the Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay, runs from Falmouth to Woods Hole. The trail’s name comes from “America the Beautiful,” the famous poem by Katherine Lee Bates, a Falmouth native. (Though once a railroad, the path follows ancient Wampanoag Indian trails.) One more highlight: the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Science Discovery Center .

13.  Lexington, MA

The best part of taking a day trip to Lexington? You can easily do it by bicycle by traveling down the Minuteman Bikeway , which begins in North Cambridge and runs right through the leafy suburb, some 15 miles northwest of Boston. This posh town is most famous for its historic Battle Green , where the bloody Battle of Lexington took place and patriotic Minute Men engaged the British Army on Lexington Common. Many of the original homes flanking the battleground are preserved, including one that serves as a visitor’s center.

Stroll Lexington Center’s mom-and-pop shops, enjoy homemade ice cream at Rancatore’s or dine at il Casale   from local chef Dante de Magistris, who draws from his family’s roots to make handmade pastas, delicious sfizis and classic dishes, all in a rustic-chic atmosphere. For an elegant Sunday brunch or dinner, The Inn at Hastings Park’s Town Meeting Bistro  is a modern pleasure involving sleek, seasonal dishes.

14.  Kittery, ME

Kittery, while most famous for its shopping, has so much more to offer. First stop: Bob’s Clam Hut , a 60-year-old roadside diner that serves incredible fried clams, sustainable local fish and amazing milkshakes. Next stop? Yes, shopping at the adjacent Kittery Premium Outlets , whose stores include everything from discounted Calvin Klein to Lindt chocolate.

Also known for the historic Portsmouth Naval Yard —which is in Kittery, not neighboring Portsmouth, NH—this sleepy town includes Tributary Brewing Company , which has a cool tasting room and live music on weekends.

The heart of Kittery Foreside, which is the downtown area, is Wallingford Square and it's dotted with all kinds of restaurants including the sleek bistro Anneke Jans  and casual asian eatery  Anju Noodle Bar . Or  stop by Lil’s Café , a quaint spot set in a former bank whose old walk-in safe is now its Vinyl Vault, a small alcove with used records for sale. Lil’s bakery downstairs turns out some of the best pastries in New England and excellent chai, too.

15.  Washington, CT

For a small town in rural Connecticut, Washington has a big reputation for its arts and architecture. The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens is set in a once-abandoned gas station and boasts lovely landscaping and revolving art exhibits.

Every July, the Litchfield Jazz Festival takes place at venues around town and world-renowned modern dance company Pilobolus holds its Five Senses Festival . In September, Gilmore Girls fans take over—the town inspired the beloved TV program’s fictional Stars Hollow. Surrounded by colonial architecture, you can shop at unique boutiques and treat yourself to dinner (and a room, for a real spurge) at the historic, luxurious Mayflower Inn .

16.  Stockbridge, MA

Just off I-90, Stockbridge is the gateway to the beautiful Berkshires, part of the Taconic Mountains. Main Street is home to the venerable Red Lion Inn , a one-time frontier town tavern that maintains a casual eatery called Widow Bingham’s Tavern, as well as a gorgeously original main dining room with traditional favorites and an award-winning wine list.

Nature and art dominate the area: Just off Park Street, behind Main Street, take the wooden footbridge and walk the Laurel Hill Association’s beautiful trails. Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum and see where the renowned illustrator and artist lived and worked. Nearby, visit Chesterwood , the home of the Lincoln Memorial sculptor Daniel Chester French, and Naumkeag , a Gilded Age architectural masterpiece. A few miles away in Lenox is the Tanglewood Music Center , the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s summer home. Nearby, you can take a guided tour of Edith Wharton’s home, The Mount , and learn about the woman behind the building and the books.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

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

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

How to Spend One Day in Boston: Itinerary & Best Things to Do

Boston is one of the most visited cities in the United States and offers an array of awesome tourist attractions. It’s also the capital city of Massachusetts and is situated within Massachusett Bay – which is part of New England. 

Now, if you’re only spending one day in Boston, it can be pretty overwhelming choosing which sights to visit. However, I’ve got you covered!

I’m going to cover the must-visit sights if you’re only spending a day in Boston so that you can make the most out of your trip. This guide is also going to give you all the information you need including how to get around the city, where to stay, and the best time to visit. 

Boston is relatively small compared to other cities in the US and the main tourist areas are situated quite close together. If you follow this itinerary, you won’t have to fuss around with public transport or spend hours walking between destinations!

So, let’s get into the article and show you the ultimate one-day Boston itinerary.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

Table of Contents

Useful Info for Spending One Day in Boston

How to get to boston.

Boston Logan International airport serves as the primary airport for New England. It serves plenty of domestic and international flights and is situated about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from Downtown Boston. 

There are several ways to get from the airport to the city center, but the best way is the free bus. It takes you right from the terminals into Downtown. You can also grab a taxi, or simply hire a car. 

If you’re traveling from other cities in the United States you can choose to take a train service into the city. Amtrak is the best choice as it connects Boston with Baltimore, New York, Portland, and Washington D.C among others.

Catching the bus between cities is another popular choice. One of the best websites for cheap bus tickets is Megabus , as they cover over 100 cities in the United States.

You’ll often find that many of the train and bus services run overnight if the journeys are long, which is great as it saves you a night of accommodation costs! 

Best time to visit Boston 

Although Boston can be visited at any time of year, the best time tends to be either the summer months (June-August) or fall (September-October). 

If you’re visiting between June and August, expect lots of crowds. The temperatures hover between 60-80°F (15-26°C), and the humidity can be pretty stifling. The warm climate attracts plenty of tourists, so the popular attractions can get pretty busy. 

Fall is another great time to visit Boston. The months of September and October will see the humidity and temperatures drop to around 46-57°F (8-14°C). This makes walking around the city much easier and the fall colors are simply beautiful. Boston is actually a great starting point for a New England fall foliage road trip !

If you’re looking to save a bit of cash, you can always head to Boston during the off-season. November and December are often the cheapest time to visit as hotel prices drop. However, Boston winters aren’t for the faint-hearted so you’ll have to come prepared! 

How to get around Boston 

Boston has plenty of great public transport links including the subway, local buses, and commuter rail. You can also use ferries and water taxis to get around too!

Getting around Boston is pretty cheap, but if you don’t fancy taking public transport you can also make use of the city’s bike-share program. The city only covers an area of 89 square miles (232 km2) which means it’s incredibly easy to get around.

However, you won’t have to worry about catching public transport for this one day Boston itinerary, as it’s fully walkable! This means much more time for sightseeing, as you don’t have to worry about traveling to the other side of the city. 

If you do decide spending one day in Boston just isn’t enough, then make sure you use public transport to visit some of the other popular neighborhoods within the city. This includes taking trips out to Fenway-Kenmore, and the South End.

Where to stay in Boston

As you’re looking to see the best of Boston in a day, you’ll benefit from having a centrally located hotel. If you plan to follow this itinerary, I’d recommend staying in either Downtown Boston or the North End.

Downtown Boston is a brilliant area for sightseeing and is known for its quirky bars and delicious restaurants. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly neighborhoods in Boston.

The North End is situated right on the waterfront and is home to the best Italian food in the city. The nightlife scene isn’t as big here as in Downtown Boston, so it’s a better option for families with young children.

When it comes to staying in Downtown Boston you’ll have plenty of choices, whereas the North End is a bit more limited. 

It’s also important to note that Boston is one of the most expensive cities in the United States when it comes to accommodation. Even the budget accommodation will set you back some dollars, so keep this in mind. 

If you want to read more about the best areas to stay in the city, check out my in-depth guide about where to stay in Boston . However, if you’re in a bit of a hurry and just want to get something booked – here are my top recommendations. 

LUXURY – Boston Harbor Hotel

Boston Harbor Hotel is a 5-star waterfront hotel that overlooks Boston Harbor. One of the best things about this hotel is the Rowes Wharf Sea Grill & Bar. It’s known for its tasty seafood and offers a scenic view of the harbor whilst you dine. 

MID-RANGE – The Godfrey Hotel Boston

The Godfrey Hotel Boston has plenty of on-site facilities for guests, but the highlight is its location. The hotel is situated close to many of the sights on this one day Boston itinerary including Boston Common, the Freedom Trail, and the Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum.

BUDGET – Harborside Inn

Harbourside Inn is situated in the perfect location if you’re looking to see the best of Boston in one day. Not only is it located in the city’s waterfront district, but the Freedom Trail also starts 150 yards from the hotel’s front door. 

Overview of Your One Day Boston Itinerary

Breakdown of your one day in boston.

Here is a quick overview of how you’re going to spend your one day in Boston.

• Morning: Mike’s Pastry, North End (Paul Revere House, Old North Church, Copps Hill Burying Ground, Skinny House, Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum)
• Afternoon: Quincy Market, Sam Adams Boston Taproom, part of the Freedom Trail (Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston Massacre Site, Old State House, Old South Meeting House, Old Corner Book Store, Benjamin Franklin Statue, King’s Chapel, Granary Burying Ground, Park Street Church, Massachusetts State House), Boston Common, Public Garden
• Evening: Beacon Hill (Acorn Street, Longfellow Bridge, dinner)

Map for your one day in Boston

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Boston itinerary.

I marked the different times of your one day in Boston with different colors – I used blue for the morning, green for the afternoon, and red for the evening, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit during the day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will open up in your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Morning of Your One Day in Boston

Morning treats at mike’s pastry .

Visit time: 8 am – 8.30 am

Mike’s Pastry is a super popular pastry shop within the city and is the perfect way to fuel your one day in Boston.

I’ve started the itinerary with this spot, as it’s best to head there in the morning to avoid the biggest lines. If you decide to visit in the afternoon, you’ll be queuing for ages – no kidding!

Situated on Hanover Street, this renowned Italian bakeshop is famous for its unique cannoli. Some of the tastiest flavors include chocolate-covered, Nutella, hazelnut, and strawberry. Although you’re only spending a day in Boston, you don’t want to leave the city without tasting one of these!

If you don’t fancy cannoli, this quirky bakery has plenty of other choices. Why not try some of their biscotti, macaroons, fig cookies, or ricotta pie? You can also taste their delicious lobster tails (don’t worry – there is no actual lobster tail in there). 

Even if you get there at 8 am when it opens, it’s likely you may have to queue. So, if it’s a rainy day in Boston make sure you’ve got an umbrella!

Explore the North End

Visit time: 8.30 am – 10 am 

Mike’s Pastry is actually located within the North End and is only a 2-minute walk from the Paul Revere House. That means you can get straight into exploring this neighborhood or ‘Little Italy’ as it’s sometimes known. 

The North End is the oldest neighborhood in the city and is home to the best Italian food in Boston (hence your visit to Mike’s Pastry). 

As you wander through the narrow alleyways, you’ll be bombarded with amazing sights and smells of Italian dishes and treats. This area is also situated on the waterfront, so make sure you take a stroll along the harbor front. 

However, the most popular sights in the North End are the Old North Church , Copp’s Hill Burying Ground , and the Paul Revere House . No one day Boston itinerary is complete without a visit to these three sites!

I’d recommend visiting the Paul Revere House first as it’s such a short distance from your breakfast spot.

This house was built around 1680 and is the oldest remaining structure in Downtown Boston. You can tour the home and get a unique perspective into Paul Revere’s life – the famous patriot, craftsman, and entrepreneur.

From there, head to the Old North Church which is a 5-minute walk away. The Old North Church is the city’s oldest church and is one of the most visited historical sites in Boston. It’s best known for its unique architecture and the midnight ride of Paul Revere. 

And lastly, finish your visit to the North End with a trip to Copp’s Hill Burying Ground. This is the final resting place for many people who lived in the North End and was used continuously throughout the 1850s.

Right across the Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, it’s worth taking a look at the Skinny House, the narrowest house in all of Boston. Legend says that two brothers inherited the land after their father died in the American Civil War.

One of the brothers decided to build a huge home without waiting for the other one to return from the military. Once the other brother returned, he built the Skinny house as revenge on the tiny land he had left, to block the sunlight and ruin the view of his brother’s house.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Visit time: 10:30am – 12:00 pm

The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum is a 25-minute walk from Copp’s Hill Burying Ground so allow yourself time to get there. In case you plan to walk there along the waterfront, make sure to stop by the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park on the way!

If you’re only spending one day in Boston, I understand there will be a lot of sights you want to see. 

However, this one needs to be included in your itinerary! Visiting the museum is one of the best things to do in Boston and you’ll truly feel like you’ve stepped back in time. 

The tour of the museum takes you back to 1773 and allows you to become part of the famous Boston Tea Party. This political protest was against the British Parliament’s Tea Act which aimed to save the East India Company by lowering its tea tax.

Throughout the tour, you’ll get to learn about the events that led to this and relive the battle through 3D holograms and live actors. You’ll also get a chance to throw tea overboard, and see what it would have been like to be part of the ‘Sons of Liberty’.

The tours last just over 60 minutes and start every 15 minutes, except if you visit in fall and winter. If you’re heading to the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum at this time of year, the tours tend to start every 30 minutes. You’ll need to consider this, and possibly allow more time if that’s the case. 

You can get your tickets here for the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Interactive tour . 

Afternoon of Your One Day in Boston

Quincy market .

Visit time: 12.15 pm – 1.30 pm 

Quincy Market is a shopper’s paradise and one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions as it’s situated along the Freedom Trail.

With over 100 different stores, artisan carts, restaurants, and pubs there is plenty to do. However, after a full morning of exploring, I can imagine you’d be pretty hungry at this point!

Luckily, Quincy Market has an array of food choices waiting for you. I recommend eating at Boston Chowda as they serve the most delicious (you guessed it) Boston clam chowder. 

This tasty traditional dish is a cream-based seafood soup. It contains clams, diced potatoes, and onions, and is then thickened with crackers. 

If you’re not a fan of seafood, there are plenty of other choices including El Paso Enchiladas, the Dog House, and Regina Pizzeria. 

I’d then finish up your lunch with a Boston cream pie – a delicious 2-layer cake filled with either vanilla custard or cream, before being covered with chocolate sauce. Yum! 

You can also visit Sam Adams Boston Taproom as an optional extra! Here you can enjoy an array of exclusive beers, and relax whilst you let your food digest.

Quincy Market is without a doubt one of the best things to see in Boston in one day. So make sure you leave yourself enough time to wander around the market and treat yourself to some unique buys!

Freedom Trail

Visit time: 1.30 pm – 3.30 pm 

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile (4 km) trail that connects 16 historic sites in the city. If you’ve only got one day in Boston – this needs to be your priority. 

These sites play an important part in the history of the United States, as they are all related to the American Revolution. The first part of this trail I’ve placed in reverse order, as you’ve already ticked off a couple of places. 

The Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, Old North Church, and the Paul Revere House are also part of the Freedom trail but you would’ve already explored these when visiting the North End. 

First up is Faneuil Hall, which is a 1-minute walk from Quincy Market. This hall hosted America’s first-ever town meeting so holds a pretty important place in the history books.

From there you’ll head to the Boston Massacre Site, where 5 civilians were unfortunately killed by gunfire due to a clash in the streets. 

Next, you’ll walk to the Old State House, the Old South Meeting House, and the Old Corner Bookstore. 

From the bookstore, you’ll walk to the Benjamin Franklin Statue which is situated outside the Boston Latin School. This school was founded in 1635 and is the oldest public school in America. 

After visiting the statue, you’ll continue along the Freedom Trail until you reach King’s Chapel. You’ll then walk to Granary Burying Ground, and Park Street Church, before finishing at Massachusetts State House.

Now, this may sound like a lot of places, but this section of the trail can easily be covered within 1-2 hours. 

Here is a quick overview: 

• Faneuil Hall
• Boston Massacre Site (4-minute walk from Faneuil Hall) 
• Old State House (1-minute walk from Boston Massacre)
• Old South Meeting House (4-minute walk from Old State House)
• Old Corner Bookstore (1-minute walk from Old South Meeting House)
• Benjamin Franklin’s Statue (2-minute walk from the Old Corner Bookstore)
• King’s Chapel (1-minute walk from Benjamin Franklin’s Statue) 
• Granary Burying Ground (3-minute walk from King’s Chapel)
• Park Street Church (1-minute walk from Granary Burying Ground)
• Massachusetts State House (3-minute walk from Park Street Church) 

If you want to learn a bit more about each place, you can head on a 2.5-hour Freedom Trail walking tour . This tour will take you to all 16 sights along the Freedom Trail, so you can adjust your itinerary accordingly. 

However, if you simply want to walk the trail on your own you can print out a Freedom Trail brochure! 

Boston Common

Visit time: 3.30 pm – 4.30 pm

Boston Common is next on this list, as it’s only a 1-minute walk from Massachusetts State House. It was established in 1634, making it America’s oldest public park and it’s part of Boston’s famous Freedom Trail. 

Not only is this park beautiful, but it’s also the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Although you’re only spending a day in Boston, you’re entitled to a bit of relaxation! 

You can take a stroll around the common, ride a carousel, or simply grab a drink and take a seat for a while. You’ll also find that throughout the year, certain events are held here so keep an eye out for those! 

Although you’re probably not looking to work up a sweat after a day exploring Boston, you’ve also got the choice of heading to the tennis courts or basketball fields. 

However, one of the best times to visit Boston Common is winter! You can go sledding, and Boston Common Frog Pond is famous for ice skating during the winter months.

If you’re wanting to see the best of Boston in a day, don’t leave this place out. 

Public Garden (Make Way for the Ducklings)

Visit time: 4.30 pm – 5.30 pm

The Public Garden is right next to Boston Common and is another great spot to relax in the city. It was the first-ever botanical garden in America and was established in 1837.

This Victorian-era garden has a lot to offer, with beautiful flowers, plenty of space to walk around, and of course, the famous ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ statues.

These statues depict a duck family and are the most popular attraction in the Public Garden. They were inspired by Robert McCluskey’s book ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ which follows the adventures of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard. These statues are a must-visit while exploring Boston in one day!

You can also take a ride on one of the ‘swan boats’ which have been taking tourists on a ride of the lagoon since 1877. The lagoon also has its own resident pair of swans that arrive in May for the summer months.

Now, of course, one of the main highlights is the many exotic trees and plants that can be found here. 

The most spectacular show of all is put on by the tulips, as each year around 26,000 tulips bloom for a month or more. The colors are extraordinary and make for one of the most photographed events in Boston.

Evening of Your One Day in Boston

Beacon hill.

Visit time: 6 pm – 9 pm

After spending a day in Boston exploring all the popular sights and eating delicious food, you may think that’s your itinerary finished. No way!

What better way to sign off your one day in Boston than by visiting Beacon Hill. Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s most historic neighborhoods, and one of the most picturesque areas in the city. 

Although it only covers half a square mile, Beacon Hill is filled with incredible architecture, historical landmarks, local boutiques, and of course, plenty of restaurants! 

One of the must-visit spots to end your evening is Acorn Street. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the country, and once you see the red-brick sidewalks and cobblestones – it’s easy to see why!

Acorn Street is famous within Boston as it’s an original cobblestone street, which is incredibly difficult to find these days. 

Another place you just have to visit during your time in Beacon Hill is Longfellow Bridge. It offers superb views of the harbor – especially at sunset! 

This bridge spans the Charles River and connects Beacon Hills with the Cambridge neighborhood. You can walk right over the bridge as a pedestrian, and you’ll see it beautifully light up in the evening – another reason why it’s best to leave this one till the end. 

There are also plenty of great restaurants in the area for dinner, and here are some of my recommendations.

Toscano is the place to go if you fancy some Tuscan cuisine. They serve up flavorful handmade pasta, and delicious pizzas, with plenty of wines to choose from. The Paramount is another great choice and is known for its tasty food and cozy atmosphere. 

This is probably all that you’ll have time for when it comes to your one-day Boston itinerary. 

However, if you find you still have a bit of free time why not head to Charles Street which is one of the city’s best shopping areas. Or you can wander around Louisburg Square which is one of the most affluent areas in all of Boston.

Planning a trip to New England?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about New England. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Massachusetts:

Where to Stay in Boston: 8 Best Areas & Hotels

13 Best Day Trips from Boston You Can’t Miss

• 133 Best Boston Captions for Instagram (Quotes, Puns & More)

19 Spooky Things to Do in Salem MA in October

• 7 Hocus Pocus Filming Locations in Salem You Can’t Miss
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip for 2 Weeks
• Vermont in the Fall: Travel Tips & Best Places to Visit
• 16 Incredible Things to Do in Woodstock VT
• 17 Amazing Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont
• 15 Best Airbnbs in Stowe, Vermont (Cottages, Cabins & More)
• 17 Incredible Covered Bridges in Vermont You Need to Visit
• 81 Amazing Vermont Quotes & Captions for Instagram

New Hampshire:

• Kancamagus Highway Fall Foliage Drive: 9 Best Attractions & Tips for Visiting
• The Perfect 2 Days in Acadia National Park Itinerary
• How to Spend One Day in Portland, Maine
• 5 Prettiest Lighthouses in Portland Maine You Can’t Miss

Related Posts

Want to read more about Boston?

What Camera Gear Do We Use?

• Camera body:  Sony Alpha 7 IV
• Standard zoom lens:  TAMRON 28-75 mm f/2.8
• Wide angle lens:   Sony FE 16-35mm f/4
• Telephoto lens:   TAMRON 70-180 mm f/2.8
• Drone:  DJI Mini 3 Pro
• GoPro:   GoPro Hero 7
• Camera Bag:   Peak Design Everyday Totepack
• Tripod:   Manfrotto Compact Action

If you want to read more about what is in our camera bag, check out my detailed post about  our travel photography gear !

Pin It for Later!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Boston   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in Boston

As Massachusetts' capital and the birthplace of the American Revolution, there's no shortage of historical sites for travelers to explore within Boston's city limits (and beyond). There's even a Boston Tea Party Museum on the harbor

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

Stretching 2½ miles, the Freedom Trail weaves past 16 of the city's most historic sites, including Faneuil Hall Marketplace , the Paul Revere House and Old North Church . Taking in all of the trail's attractions requires at least half a day (and some comfortable walking shoes), but you can easily plot points of interest before you begin your jaunt from Boston Common .

Though most visitors agree the trail is easy to navigate on your own, some recommend a guided tour or downloading an app to tell you about the sites. (You'll find a handful of apps available for Apple and Android devices.) If you have a Go Boston Card, standard guided tours given by the Freedom Trail Foundation are covered by your pass.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every Friday and Saturday, Haymarket (one America's oldest open-air markets) pops up adjacent to Faneuil Hall. In order to navigate this often-chaotic scene successfully make sure to bring small bills, leave bulky bags at the hotel and keep it moving on the sidewalk. - Jill LeGrow

Four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market – constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the oldest being Faneuil Hall. Built in 1742 and now a stop on the Freedom Trail , Faneuil Hall has had a long and important history in Massachusetts politics. Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British, and abolitionists and suffragists have stood on their soapboxes here. In fact, this is where colonists famously challenged the Stamp Act of 1764 by proclaiming, "no taxation without representation." From those illustrious days, the marketplace has expanded to include more than 100 shops and restaurants.

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

Though the Boston Public Garden sits right next to Boston Common , the two are quite different. The public garden is newer (established in 1837) and holds the distinction of being America's first public botanical garden. Flowers and trees are beautifully organized and kept in quality condition throughout. You can see the colorful arrangements and exotic trees from the 6-acre pond as you glide along the water in a Swan Boat. Additionally, the park houses two of Boston's most iconic statues: Make Way for Ducklings (a bronze sculpture of a duck and her eight ducklings) and a sculpture of George Washington (which shows America's first president riding on a horse).

Visitors looking to relax after sightseeing will enjoy the Boston Public Garden. Parkgoers say you'll find plenty of shade beneath the park's trees, which comes in handy on hot summer days. Plus, you'll likely spot some ducks and geese swimming around the lagoon. And if you have a few dollars, visitors recommend taking a 15-minute ride on a Swan Boat. The large paddle boats cost $4.50 to ride (or $3 for kids ages 2 to 15 and $4 for seniors); travelers with Go Boston Cards ride for free. Swan Boats are usually available between mid-April and Labor Day.

Popular Tours

Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops

(4126 reviews)

from $ 42.00

Martha's Vineyard Daytrip from Boston with Round-Trip Ferry & Island Tour Option

(2149 reviews)

from $ 119.00

Freedom Trail: Small Group Tour of Revolutionary Boston

(2231 reviews)

from $ 39.00

North End North End free

Chances are you'll end up in the North End at least once during your visit to Boston. It's steeped in the city's rich history as it holds the title of Boston's oldest neighborhood and houses three attractions on the Freedom Trail . What makes this neighborhood a top point of interest, however, is its Italian culture: The North End is considered Boston's Little Italy.

While Italians weren't the first to settle in this area (English settlers arrived first then European Jews, African Americans and Irish immigrants), their cultural influence on the North End withstood the test of time. Today, you'll find all kinds of Italian food from classic pizza pies served at the popular Regina Pizzeria to Sicilian-style seafood, such as black linguine (made with squid ink) and calamari meatballs at The Daily Catch . For dinner, try Mamma Maria for fine dining, Giacomo's for its affordable, made-in-house pasta or Bricco , which sources its meats and bread from its own meat and bread shop, located right next door. If you’re only interested in pizza, hit up Galleria Umberto for delectable solo slices or Antico Forno for its full-size, wood-fired pies. Prezza is known for its extensive wine list, boasting hundreds of wine labels to choose from. For dessert, make sure to pick up a cannoli at Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry , or tiramisu at the 24-hour Bova's Bakery .

Museum of Fine Arts Museum of Fine Arts

If you want to make the most out of the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most comprehensive art institutions in the country, then you'll need to spend a good chunk of your day here. The museum is home to one of the best art collections in the world, including the celebrated Art of the Americas wing. Inside this sprawling collection, you'll encounter galleries showcasing iconic pieces from indigenous cultures in North, South and Central America to works by contemporary artists like Edward Hopper.

You'll also find an impressive collection of Asian art here, plus works from Monet, Renoir, Manet and Rembrandt on display. And in special temporary exhibits, you can admire masterpieces from Black artists like Diedrick Brackens and Picasso, among others.

Boston Common Boston Common free

The grounds of Boston Common started as a cow pasture in the mid-1600s. It was also used for Puritan punishments, like whipping, and even for hangings. In 1768, the area was transformed into a British camp. After the Revolutionary War, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies. Now, the Common is best known because of its status as the oldest public park in the country. You'll also find a variety of activities and events – including theater and musical performances and free fitness classes – hosted here throughout the year. If you plan to traverse the Freedom Trail , you'll start the walk here at Boston Common.

Though some visitors say you won't find much to do in this park, Boston Common is great for picnics or a leisurely stroll. Travelers also mention that this site is a wonderful spot to take young children. In addition to ample running room on the park's green space, kids can play at the Tadpole Playground or Frog Pond. Frog Pond offers a spray pool during the warmer months and an ice skating rink in the winter. Some visitors do note that the park tends to draw Boston's homeless population, particularly at night.

Best Boston Tours

Boston Tours

The 15 Best Boston Tours

March 14, 2024

Photo Tour: Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston

June 26, 2023

Fenway Park Fenway Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to watch a Sox game without a ticket, head to the Bleacher Bar on Lansdowne Street. Located beneath the bleachers of Fenway, the best tables are positioned directly in front of the huge garage window that overlook centerfield. – Jill LeGrow

Fans of America's favorite pastime won't want to miss a game at Fenway Park. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this stadium has been the site of home runs, stolen bases and grounders since 1912. Regardless of whether or not you're a diehard Red Sox fan, you should try to catch a game and admire the ballpark's original architecture. Must-see features of the park include Pesky's Pole – the right field foul pole named after former Red Sox player Johnny Pesky – and the 37-foot-tall "Green Monster" wall in left field.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

After Isabella Stewart Gardner's husband died in 1898, the art enthusiast carried out their plan to buy land in Boston's Fenway area and open a museum to display her impressive collection of Italian art. The museum, which was fashioned after the Palazzo Barbaro in Venice , was completed in 1901, at which point Gardner moved in to the fourth floor and began installing her collection. Today, you can visit this Boston museum to get your fill of the Italian masters, such as Raphael and Titian. The building also showcases a cache of beautiful furniture, photographs, sculpture and rare books straight from Europe. The museum's New Wing, designed by Renzo Piano, includes a glass atrium, greenhouses and landscaped gardens.

The art isn't the only interesting thing here: the museum is also the site of the single largest property theft on Earth. In the wee hours of March 18, 1990, two thieves made their way into the museum disguised as police. The duo stole 13 works, including pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Degas and Manet. Today, the museum has empty frames on the walls as placeholders until the art returns to the museum. As you may have guessed, the crime has not been solved and the works haven't been recovered. The museum is even offering a sizable reward ($10 million) for information leading to the art. 

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission

(1476 reviews)

from $ 35.00

Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark

(1869 reviews)

from $ 33.34

Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

(290 reviews)

from $ 48.00

Boston Public Library Boston Public Library free

A library isn't always all about books. The main branch of the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, which opened in 1895, is so much more, according to recent visitors who call the architecture "beautiful" and a “must-see.” Walking into the Renaissance Revival building is akin to visiting a museum. On Dartmouth Street, two immense stone lions sculpted by Louis Saint-Gaudens stand guard by the main entrance. Inside, Bates Hall, the library's main reference reading room, is a 218-foot-long room with a barrel-arch ceiling soaring 50 feet high.

Visitors can take a free tour and learn all about the murals found throughout the library, including John Singer Sargent's series on the "Triumph of Religion." Other murals include works by French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, who depicted eight library-centric disciplines in "The Muses of Inspiration," and Edwin Austin Abbey's "The Quest and Achievement of the Holy Grail."

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

A must for any history buffs or fans of our nation's 35th president, this excellent library and museum details the life of President John F. Kennedy. Exhibits include his presidential papers; masses of Kennedy memorabilia, including re-creations of his desk in the Oval Office and of the television studio in which he debated Richard M. Nixon in the 1960 election; and artifacts from the U.S. space program. There's permanent display on the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis plus plenty of other artifacts and information about Kennedy's life and presidency. The building itself is quite striking and was designed by architect I. M. Pei.

Museumgoers say that while the museum is off the beaten path (it sits about 5 miles south of downtown on Columbia Point), it is well worth the trek thanks to the exhibits and staff. However, some wish the exhibits had a more detailed explanation of Kennedy and events during his life. The views from the museum are amazing, add some visitors.

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

If you want to get outdoors in the greater Boston area, consider hopping a ferry (which operates from mid-May through mid-October) to the Boston Harbor Islands. This collection of 34 islands located in the Massachusetts Bay boasts plenty of things to do and see including historic sites, hiking trails, beaches, wildlife and much more. Popular islands include Spectacle, Georges and Peddocks, though ferries also go to Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin and Thompson.

The 114-acre Spectacle Island is a great option for those looking to hike. Here, you'll find 5 miles of trails, including one which leads to the harbor's highest hill, offering incredible views of Boston's skyline. If you’re looking for a place where you can sink your toes into the sand, head to Lovells Island. Here, you’ll find secluded shorelines as well as tide pools (when it's low tide, a whopping 71 acres are added to the island's land mass). Meanwhile, history lovers will enjoy a trip to Georges Island. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren, which the U.S. government used for patrolling and training Union troops as well as housing Confederate prisoners during Civil War times. Peddocks Island, one of the largest of the Boston Harbor Islands, offers a little bit of everything. This island is considered a prime camping spot and features scenic hiking trails that pass through coastal forests, headlands connected by tombolos and the biggest beach of any island. You'll also find a little bit of history thanks to Fort Andrews and a restored chapel from World War II.

Newbury Street Newbury Street free

Located in the Back Bay along eight blocks between Massachusetts Avenue and Arlington Street, Newbury Street is home to gorgeous 19th century brownstones. It's also Boston's premiere destination for dining and shopping. Newbury Street has been called one of the most expensive streets in the world, thanks in large part to the significant cluster of expensive shops on the lower end (by numbered address) nearest Arlington Street.

Starting at the higher end, by Massachusetts Avenue, you'll find more budget-friendly retailers like TJ Maxx and Forever 21, as well longtime local favorites Newbury Comics and Trident Booksellers. In fact, Newbury Comics' opening in 1978 was the catalyst that began the transformation of Newbury Street from a heavily upper-class retail destination to a hipper, trendier spot for everyone.

Samuel Adams Brewery Samuel Adams Brewery

Despite its location outside of city center, visiting the Samuel Adams Brewery is a popular stop for beer lovers. This brewery location acts as Samuel Adams' testing facility for new and specialty brews, which patrons can try. You can also take a guided tour of the facility to learn more about the brewing process.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, odds are you'll enjoy a visit to this brewery. Visitors say the staff is knowledgeable, but note there can be long entry lines.

Boston Freedom Trail Daily Walking Tour

(1363 reviews)

from $ 26.57

Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour

(1661 reviews)

from $ 47.20

The Revolutionary Story Epic Small Group Walking Tour of Boston

(1182 reviews)

from $ 55.00

Cambridge Cambridge free

Cambridge, which sits about 3 miles northwest of Boston's city center, is home to both Harvard University and MIT , but there's more to see in Cambridge than just the schools themselves. The city features an impressive array of cultural institutions that feature collections and exhibitions ranging from fine art to technological innovations.

The Harvard Art Museums , which include the Fogg Museum, Busch-Reisinger Museum and Arthur M. Sackler Museum, house a wide range of periods, styles and mediums within its walls. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern photography, 13th century sculpture, paintings from legends like Georgia O’Keeffe, Picasso and Jackson Pollock, and much more. If you prefer history, head to the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology , which boasts exhibits exploring everything from ancient Latin American cultures to the evolution of American eating habits and tableware to the lives of Native Americans. If science is more your speed, head to the Harvard Museum of Natural History to view dinosaur fossils, rare minerals and animal specimens from New England to Asia.

Beacon Hill Beacon Hill free

Beacon Hill is arguably Boston's most beautiful neighborhood. Located north of Boston Common , Beacon Hill is awash with quaint, cobblestone-lined alleyways, corners dotted with gas street lamps, stately townhouses affixed with bay view windows and vibrant, flower-filled window boxes. It's Beacon Hill's incredible style, a stunning mix of Federal and Greek revival architecture, that make this neighborhood an attraction in and of itself. And recent visitors couldn't agree more.

Travelers who venture to Beacon Hill are charmed by its beauty and say that it's the perfect place to take a long stroll and wander around. While here, make sure to make your way to noteworthy spots including the picturesque Louisburg Square and Acorn Street, the latter of which is one of the most photographed places in Boston. After, head down Charles Street, where you'll find restaurants, shops and bars. Fans of the TV show "Cheers" will want to walk down Beacon Street to find the bar that inspired the program.

Old North Church Old North Church

Most people who know anything about American history have heard of Paul Revere's famous midnight ride, when he rode through town to warn people about the arrival of British troops. Before heading off to Lexington, Revere gave orders at Old North Church. Robert Newman – the church's sexton – and Captain John Pulling Jr. – the church's vestryman – then climbed the steeple and held two lanterns as a signal that the British were indeed coming, but by sea.

The church itself, which is officially named Christ Church, is filled with beautiful relics from the past, including North America's oldest set of change ringing bells and chandeliers brought in from England in the early 1700s. The pews have a long history as well; Pew No. 54 was reserved for Paul Revere's son.

Boston Children's Museum Boston Children's Museum

With a giant milk bottle structure at the front of the building, it's hard to miss the Boston Children's Museum. Here, hands-on exhibits present a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about various sciences, culture, art and health and wellness, among other subjects. Among the museum's standout exhibits are "Construction Zone," where little ones can learn about and play with kid-sized construction equipment, "The Common," where kids play with color, games and music, and "Japanese House" – a 100-year-old authentic Japanese house reconstructed in Boston by Japanese carpenters.

Museumgoers praise the variety of engaging exhibits tailored to kids within different age groups and can't recommend it enough. Others warn the museum gets crowded, especially in the summer.

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway free

Boston is packed with cool outdoor spaces, but this nearly 1½-mile-long series of parks and gardens offers more than most. The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway was established to link Boston's diverse neighborhoods through a series of lawns, parks and walkways that occupy a former highway tunnel. Since opening in 2008, visitors have flocked to this sprawling green space to enjoy temporary public art displays, bubbling fountains, numerous food vendors and a carousel. Plus, the park offers free weekly events, including food and art festivals, summer concert performances and seasonal fitness classes.

Many previous visitors said the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway not only offers a much-needed respite from the city, but also an easy way to explore Boston with kids during the warmer months. And, in many sections of the Greenway, you're never more than a few steps away from the Freedom Trail .

Boston Small-Group Walking Food Tour With Tastings

(629 reviews)

from $ 115.00

Boston: North End to Freedom Trail - Food & History Walking Tour

(1270 reviews)

from $ 131.54

Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour

(2024 reviews)

from $ 23.00

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

This hands-on museum offers an entertaining look at one of Boston's pivotal moments. You can toss (fake) tea overboard, climb around replica ships and converse with period actors about Colonial issues. Exhibits at the museum, which is located on Griffin's Wharf (close to where the actual Tea Party occurred on Dec. 16, 1773) include 3D holograms, talking portraits and the Robinson Tea Chest, an authentic tea chest from the Boston Tea Party. Two of the three ships have been recreated, the Beaver and the Eleanor, which are fun to explore. The film "Let It Begin Here" depicts the events that immediately preceded the American Revolution. You can also grab a cup of tea or a snack in Abigail's Tea Room, which has one of the best views of the harbor around.

Visitors love the interactive nature of the museum and tossing tea overboard, saying their time there was entertaining for all ages. They also add that the guides are informative and stay in character.

Museum of Science Museum of Science

If you're traveling with young ones in tow, be sure to swing by the Museum of Science. Here, kids can learn about astronomy, earth sciences and anatomy, not to mention participate in some fun interactive exhibits. Budding scientists can examine the Arctic in "Arctic Adventure: Exploring with Technology" exhibit or play on swings to learn about physics in "Science in the Park." The museum also features the Charles Hayden Planetarium, where you can indulge your inner astronaut during shows. Meanwhile, at the Mugar Omni Theater, you'll feel like you're actually in the IMAX film thanks to its cutting-edge sound technology and five-story-high projection screen.

Although the museum is very kid-focused, past visitors said that young-at-heart adults and even teens will get a kick out of the museum's engaging displays and shows. Though most travelers spend about half a day exploring the museum, you could easily allocate an entire day to this attraction. Also, remember that separate tickets (which cost extra) are needed for some museum features, such as IMAX films, planetarium shows and the Garden Walk and Insect Zoo.

Boston Duck Tours Boston Duck Tours

Wander Boston for a couple of hours and you're sure to see a Duck Tour quacking its way through the streets (and waterways). These "Truck Duck" vehicles recreate the look of a DUKW truck used by the U.S. military during World War II and transport tourists all over the city by land and water. The tours drive past a number of landmark sites including the Old State House, Newbury Street , Prudential Tower, Public Garden and the Swan Boats, and Copley Square (home to the Boston Public Library ). Once launched into the water, you'll cruise down the Charles River checking out MIT, the Longfellow Bridge, as well as the Esplanade and the Hatch Shell. 

Besides giving tours around the city, Boston Duck Tour boats have been used in all of the victory parades since 2002 for the Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins (the city's major teams for football, baseball, basketball and hockey, respectively). What started off simply as a way to roll the Patriots through downtown Boston for a Superbowl celebration has turned into a much-loved tradition that continues today.

Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Symphony Orchestra

Even if you're not a classical music aficionado, you can't miss attending one of the Boston Symphony Orchestra's world-renowned performances at Symphony Hall. The BSO began performing in 1881. Today, the symphony performs everything from family shows to traditional concerts and Boston Pops – a lively performance filled with singing and a variety of music. The BSO performs at Symphony Hall from September through April, then heads to Tanglewood (which is about 130 miles west of Boston) in the summer.

Past spectators not only praised the world-class talent, but also noted the impressive acoustics of Symphony Hall as a main selling point for attending future concerts. If you can't score tickets to an orchestra performance, consider taking a free tour of Symphony Hall. Tours, which are offered in the fall, winter and spring, provide information about the property, as well as insight into the orchestra's musicians and conductors.

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

Gaze up at the six 54-foot glass towers that comprise the New England Holocaust Memorial, and you're bound to be awestruck. Dedicated in 1995, each haunting tower is etched with numbers. The 6 million numbers represent the Holocaust's victims, while the towers represent the six major death camps. There is also a granite path covered in quotes from survivors that leads visitors inside the towers.

Recent visitors described walking through the columns as an emotionally charged and unforgettable experience. The monument's location next to Faneuil Hall Marketplace makes it very accessible while walking the Freedom Trail .

View Boston Observation Deck Admission Tickets

(69 reviews)

from $ 34.99

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

(265 reviews)

from $ 120.00

Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with Up-Close View of USS Constitution

(779 reviews)

from $ 46.00

Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

For a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1700s, head to Paul Revere's former residence in the North End . The house, which is situated on the Freedom Trail , offers insight into how homes looked in Revere's time (it's even filled with period pieces, including fine silver). Inside, history fans can admire the building's sweeping beams, spacious fireplaces and some original furnishings owned by the Revere family.

If you like American history, travelers say you'll enjoy seeing the Paul Revere House. This house is small, though, so don't allot more than an hour to tour the property. Docents are friendly and knowledgeable.

Massachusetts State House Massachusetts State House free

The golden-domed Massachusetts State House is an important building for many reasons and is one of the stops on the Freedom Trail . The land it sits on was originally used as John Hancock’s cow pasture. It was designed by Charles Bulfinch and completed in 1798 and the cornerstone was laid by Samuel Adams in 1795. A copper dome was installed by Paul Revere in 1802 (later covered in gold). Nowadays, senators, state representatives and the governor conduct the Commonwealth's business here.

Free tours are offered by docents who explain the building's history and discuss the important art and architecture within. Make sure to look for the Sacred Cod in the House of Representatives Chamber. The almost 5-foot wooden cod symbolizes the importance of the salt cod industry to the area.

New England Aquarium New England Aquarium

Your kids will find plenty to love at the New England Aquarium, starting with the Atlantic harbor seals that hang out just beyond the ticket booth. Inside, you'll find thousands of marine critters to study, and at the center: the Giant Ocean Tank. This four-story tank includes a coral reef habitat that houses more than 1,000 underwater creatures including green sea turtles, eels and barracuda. In other parts of the aquarium, you'll find exhibits dedicated to penguins, sea jellies and seadragons, plus a six-story high projection movie screen with digital surround sound, where you can watch films about sea creatures and more. And don't forget to check out the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, which allows visitors to graze sharks and rays as they swim by.

While some visitors bemoan the aquarium's compact size (which, in turn, made for thick crowds), many appreciate the attraction's variety of animals. Several travelers also recommend watching a penguin or seal feeding.

USS Constitution USS Constitution free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every July 4th, the USS Constitution takes her annual "turnaround" sail in Boston Harbor. The particular sail is the only one open to the public and the US Navy holds a lottery with the lucky winners getting to board "Old Ironsides." – Jill LeGrow

History lovers, boat enthusiasts and military aficionados alike can't miss the chance to board the USS Constitution. Docked at the Boston National Historical Park in Charlestown, this historic vessel is the world's oldest commissioned warship still operational today. It is helmed by United States Navy sailors, who also serve as the ship's guides. The ship's accompanying museums displays nearly 2,000 artifacts related to the ship's history.

Bunker Hill Monument Bunker Hill Monument free

Bunker Hill Monument is part of the Boston National Historical Park and a stop on the Freedom Trail . The first major battle of the American Revolution took place on Breed's Hill in June 1775, though originally it was supposed to take place on nearby Bunker Hill. Names aside, the British won the battle but fared worse than their American foes. The British sacrificed about nearly half of their 2,400 men; American casualties were between 300 and 500 out of an army of 1,400 to 1,800 soldiers. Construction of the monument started in 1827 and was completed in 1842. The 221-foot granite obelisk offers fabulous views from its observatory, though you have to work for it by climbing 294 steps to the top.

Start your visit at the Bunker Hill Museum, located across the street. Exhibits explain the Battle of Bunker Hill, the construction of the monument, and the history of Charlestown. Free tickets are required to climb the monument and you can also pick them up at the museum. Visitors enjoy the museum and say the monument is awe-inspiring and the grounds beautiful.

Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour

(804 reviews)

from $ 81.31

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

(284 reviews)

from $ 149.00

Boston Seafood Lovers Food & History Walking Tour

(107 reviews)

from $ 129.00

View Boston View Boston

U.S. News Insider Tip: To save some cash on your sightseeing, pick up a Boston CityPass which allows you to visit up to four attractions (such as the Museum of Science , New England Aquarium , Boston Harbor City Cruise and View Boston) for one discounted price. – Jill LeGrow

Replacing the iconic Top of the Hub restaurant and Skywalk Observatory that closed in 2020, View Boston opened in June 2023 to offer 360 panoramic views of Boston from atop the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Taking over the top three floors of the Prudential Center, View Boston includes an observatory, a wraparound roof deck and indoor/outdoor cocktail bar called Stratus, and a floor with interactive exhibits such as a projection-mapped 3D model of Boston. There's also Beacon, a bistro offering seasonal beverages and food.

The Mapparium The Mapparium

Located at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this three-story, stained glass globe never fails to elicit wonder. Designed by the architect of the Christian Science Publishing Society building, Chester Lindsay Churchill, the globe depicts the world as it was in 1935.

The "How Do You See the World" experience includes the globe; the "Our World: Mapping Progress," which highlights humanity's achievements since 1935; and "Points of Progress," where you can learn about significant events in human rights, scientific advances, exploration, and other fields. A 10-minute audio narration features clips from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jane Goodall, Wangari Maathai (a Kenyan Nobel laureate) and others. One of the coolest features of the globe is that it is a "whispering gallery." Stand at one end of the gallery while a friend stands at the other. Whisper something to them and they will be the only one to hear it.

Things to Do in Boston FAQs

Explore more of boston.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Massachusetts (MA) » 15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Boston

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Boston

Downtown Boston is one of the oldest settlements in North America and has a history dating back to the arrival of the Puritans in the early 1600s. Throughout the centuries, Boston has played an important role in major historical moments including the American revolution and those notable events are celebrated throughout the downtown district.

Explore the Downtown district to discover seventeenth-century buildings between modern-day skyscrapers, eat oysters in a restaurant open since the early 1800s or live the moment which changed America’s history in a re-enactment aboard a floating tall ship museum.

Don’t think Downtown Boston is just for history fans; it’s not. There’s much more to see and do there than visit museums. Don’t miss out on any of these fifteen of the best things to do in Downtown Boston to make sure you have a great stay without getting an overload of the past.

1. Codzilla Boat Cruise

Downtown Boston has a strong attachment to maritime history, but forget all about that when it comes to the Codzilla Boat Cruise.

Board the seventy-foot-long speedboat at its moorings on Long Wharf and get ready for a full-on thrill ride. The boat hits speeds of up to forty miles per hour as it zooms across the water and spins through a full three-hundred and sixty degrees. Yes, it’s wet and wild, so take a change of clothes.

If Codzilla is too much, scroll down to read about more sedate, stay dry, Boston harbor cruises further on.

Book online : Boston Harbor Codzilla High Speed Thrill Boat

2. Freedom Trail

Explore Downtown Boston’s past by walking the Freedom Trail. Put on some comfortable shoes and join the trail in Downtown at the Old South Meeting House on Milk Street or by the Old Corner Bookstore on Washington Street.

The two and a half mile trail is clearly marked by a double line of red bricks in the pavement and runs through the district, as well as outside its boundaries, and past sixteen of Boston’s most notable historical landmarks.

For a fully immersive and informative experience, join a tour narrated by a costumed guide at the ArtsBoston booth in Faneuil Hall Marketplace. They do a fantastic job of bringing Downtown Boston’s history to life.

Recommended tour : Freedom Trail History and Architecture Walking Tour

3. Downtown Crossing

Head to the Downtown Crossing for some traffic-free retail therapy. The Crossing, located at the junction of Winter, Summer and Washington Street, is a pedestrianized shopping zone and the best place in Downtown Boston to pick up a bargain.

Downtown Boston is well known for having more jewelers shops than restaurants, and there are plenty on the streets of the Crossing. There are also numerous other retail outlets ranging from street food vendors to large department stores like Macy’s, theaters and more than a handful of coffee shops and eateries.

Related tour : Downtown Harbor Sailing Cruise

4. Dreamland Wax Museum

Snap a souvenir photo with some of the wax effigies in the Dreamland Wax Museum in Downtown Boston’s Washington Mall. The wax figures of top stars and politicians are so realistic, convincing friends you met the real person won’t be a big deal.

The museum has twelve differently themed galleries covering a total floor space of over nineteen-thousand square feet. Get up close to Snoop Dogg, Cher, Clint Eastwood, the Queen of England and all forty-four presidents of the US.

Available online : Dreamland Wax Museum Entry Ticket

5. Union Oyster House

It’s not often a restaurant is designated as a historical landmark, but it’s one honor which has been bestowed on the Union Oyster House on Union Street in Downtown Boston which has been serving oysters to its customers for over two-hundred years.

With a facade more in keeping with a medieval street than a modern US city, the Union Oyster House looks every bit as historic as it is. The interior of bare wood flooring and beamed ceiling continues the time-warp impression, and there are still plenty of oysters on the menu.

Watch the oysters being shucked while sitting at the bar or take a table and fill up on oysters Rockefeller or go all out with a Ye Olde Seafood Platter. The taste and quality of the seafood won’t disappoint.

6. Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

Visit the 18th-century replica tall ship at its moorings just of Congress Street in Downtown Boston and be immersed in a live reenactment of a moment which changed the history of North America.

At the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, costumed guides portray the roles of the characters involved in the historic event. Join them at the meeting house as rebellion flares before heading onto the decks of the ship to throw tea chests overboard the head below decks to explore the crew’s quarters and the hold.

Don’t miss viewing the 1773 original Tea Party tea chest housed in the museum or taking tea and scones in Abigail’s Tea Room served by waitresses in colonial dress.

Highly recommended : Boston Tea Party: Ships & Museum Interactive Tour

7. Trolley of the Doomed

Forget conventional sightseeing and go spook spotting in Downtown Boston instead. Get on the fright night special Old Town Trolley at the stop on Atlantic Avenue and be ready for some serious goosebumps raising.

The ghost tour is narrated by a 17th-century gravedigger who regales listeners with tales of the Boston Strangler while visiting ancient haunted burial grounds, Boston’s most haunted hotel and other locations in DT where spooks are reputed to wander.

The Old Town Trolleys also operate a daytime, spook-free, hop-on-hop-off service throughout Downtown Boston.

Book online : 1.5-Hour Ghosts and Gravestones Tour

8. Mr. Dooley’s Boston

There has been an Irish influence in Boston since the mid-1800s and there’s no shortage of Irish-themed bars, but for a good pint and a dash of authenticity, drop into Mr. Dooley’s Boston on Downtown Boston’s Broad Street.

Dooley’s have been serving Guinness alongside their Irish breakfast in the district for almost three decades. At night, be ready for some proper Irish shenanigans with regular live music and the occasional impromptu fiddle session.

9. Rose Kennedy Greenway

Head along to the Downtown Boston waterfront for a stroll through the Rose Kennedy Greenway. The Greenway is seventeen acres of parklands which stretch for over a mile through the district and into adjacent neighborhoods.

The Greenway is comprised of seven individual parks connected by broad promenades, plazas with interactive fountains, landscaped gardens and multiple public artworks plus a fun carousel with figures depicting animals native to Massachusetts.

Not only is the Greenway a great place to get a breath of fresh air, it’s also the perfect spot for seeing some great views of the Downtown skyline. If the exercise brings on an appetite, don’t worry, there are over thirty food trucks on the Greenway from where to purchase a snack.

10. The Wilbur

For an unforgettable night of comedy or music from top American and international stars, there’s nowhere better to go in Downtown Boston than the Wilbur Theater on Tremont Street.

The one-thousand-one-hundred seat theater first opened in 1914 and is one of the city of Boston’s historic landmarks. Externally plain, the theater is Renaissance-style ornate internally and has mezzanine, balcony, and orchestra levels each with full bar service.

11. Sunset Cruise

Sail out from Long Wharf in Downtown Boston at dusk aboard a Boston Harbor Cruise Boat to view the sensational DT skyline and an impressive Massachusetts sunset.

Choose from a ninety-minute narrated sailing which coordinates with the end of the day cannon firing on the USS Constitution or a one and a half hour trip across the harbor waters with music, light snacks, and sundowners included.

Ninety-minute daytime cruises around the harbor are also available and include a professional narration on the history of Boston harbor.

Related tour: Boston Sunset Cruise

12. Durgin-Park Restaurant

For historic eats in Downtown Boston stop off at the Durgin-Park Restaurant on North Market Street. Established in 1827, this vintage-style eatery has been serving traditional Boston dishes to its clientele since before the American Civil War.

Don’t visit Downtown Boston without trying the Durgin-Park’s infamous Boston Baked Beans, Clam Chowder or heart-warming Baked Indian Pudding.

The street-level floor of the restaurant houses the Gaslight Pub which, as well as serving the full menu, has a special happy hour food offering and an outside patio.

13. Chinatown Gate

Walk along Beach Street in Downtown Boston and be surprised by the sight of an elaborate, green-roofed pagoda-style structure with Chinese lettering straddling a street up ahead.

Pass through the Chinatown Gate and discover a completely different culture. The Chinatown in Boston is the third largest in North America and dates back to the 1840s.

Colorful and vibrant, Chinatown is full of restaurants, shops, and hosts many street celebrations throughout the year including the August Moon Festival and Chinese New Year.

Available tour : Chinatown Culture and Cuisine Walking Tour

14. Down Boston

For a mega-party night out, then Down Boston on Downtown Boston’s High Street is a great choice of venue.

The slick nightclub, located in a basement, has a good-sized dance floor surrounded by plush booth seating and positively glows with a neon rainbow of LED lighting.

Top Boston DJ’s man the decks spinning all the latest dance music, so be prepared to rave until at least two in the morning or later.

15. Make Way For Ducklings

While not strictly in Downtown Boston, the Make Way For Ducklings statues are just a stroll away over Boston Common in the adjacent Boston Gardens and a must-see when visiting the district.

The statues commemorate a children’s storybook about a duck family which was based in the city and have become almost as iconic as some of the district’s historical landmarks.

The proud mother mallard and her eight ducklings make for a great, and very Instagramable, souvenir photo of Downtown Boston. Don’t miss out on seeing them.

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Boston:

• Codzilla Boat Cruise
• Freedom Trail
• Downtown Crossing
• Dreamland Wax Museum
• Union Oyster House
• Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
• Trolley of the Doomed
• Mr. Dooley's Boston
• Rose Kennedy Greenway
• Sunset Cruise
• Durgin-Park Restaurant
• Chinatown Gate
• Down Boston
• Make Way For Ducklings

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

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!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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 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 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

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

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Don’t Forget Your Boston Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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.

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

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Two Gals Spending The Day Downtown

Share this itinerary.

Click the link to copy it.

Recently I met up with one of my closest friends for a day of downtown fun. Our experience began at Tremont Street's Thinking Cup coffee shop, where we indulged in coffee and sweet rolls. Strolling up Tremont Street, we turned down Bromfield Street, with its charming old storefronts. We then ducked into the back entrance of the Jewelers Building, where we found a repair shop for some cherished old earrings of my mom's. I couldn't resist picking up an exquisite new strand of cultured pearls.  Exiting the front of the Jewelers Building, we turned left onto Washington Street--the bustling heart of downtown--to explore Old State House and Old South Meeting House. The two Revolutionary-era museums, just blocks apart from each other, were the site of unforgettable historic events: the Boston Massacre (Old State House), and the launch point for the Boston Tea Party (Old South Meeting House). Continuing with the historic theme, we headed up School Street for lunch at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. The restaurant is set inside Boston's Old City Hall, an amazingly restored building dating to the Civil War era. Heading back to Tremont Street, we stopped in at Suffolk University Law School.  After having taken in so much culture, we shifted gears to go shopping. We doubled-back to Washington Street and went into Macy's, downtown's anchor retailer and a great destination for any kind of shopper. With the day waning, we had just a little more shopping to do: a trip to West Street's iconic Brattle Book Store, a treasure trove of thousands of vintage and out-of-print titles. Sure enough, we found exactly the old book we wanted. Hungry again, we walked across the street to the downtown's latest new restaurant, the Back Deck. We capped off the day by taking in a movie at the AMC Loews Boston Common cinema--just down the street from where we began at Thinking Cup.

All in all, it was a great day for two pals having some fun together and enjoying everything downtown has to offer.

Listings in this Itinerary

Thinking cup coffee.

165 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111 (617) 482-5555

Categories: Dining , Coffee Shops , Casual Dining & Takeout

Fronting on the Boston Common, the award-winning Thinking Cup Coffee serves some of the world's premier coffees, including the world-famous Stumptown Coffee blend

Old State House

206 Washington St, Boston, MA 02109 (617) 720-1713

Categories: History, Arts & Culture , Historic & Cultural Attractions , Architecture

The center of colonial civic life, a mercantile warehouse, site for political debate--all roads led to Old State House in early Boston

Old South Meeting House

310 Washington St, Boston, MA 02108 (617) 482-6439

The famed National Historic Landmark where a revolution began--and the original "Boston Tea Party" was initiated

Ruth's Chris Steakhouse

45 School St, Boston, MA 02108 (617) 742-8401

Categories: Dining , Fine Dining , American

Tucked inside Old City Hall, Ruth's Chris Steak House provides a warm, comfortable atmosphere in a richly historic setting

Macy's

450 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111 (617) 357-3000

Categories: Shopping , Clothing, Apparel & Footwear , Books, Cards & Gifts

One of Downtown's anchor retail tenants, Macy's is a vibrant center for shopping, weekly events, and seasonal celebrations

Brattle Book Shop

9 West St., Boston, MA 02111 (617) 542-0210

Categories: Shopping , Books, Cards & Gifts

A bibliophile's dream, Downtown's Brattle Book Shop, owned and operated by the Gloss family since 1949, stocks over a quarter-million rare, vintage, and specialty titles

2 West St., Boston, MA 02111 (617) 670-0320

Categories: Dining , Pubs & Nightspots , Casual Dining & Takeout , American , Fine Dining

Situated on the corner of West Street, at the gateway to the Theater District, The Back Deck is Downtown's "backyard grilling destination"

AMC Loews Boston Common

175 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111 (617) 423-5801

Categories: Nightlife , Theaters , History, Arts & Culture , Theaters

Downtown's only cinema, the AMC Loews Boston Common features an IMAX screen, 19 separate screens, and numerous other amenities

12+ Best Day Trips from Boston

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

What are the best day trips from Boston? Have I got the post for you! Boston is a brilliantly situated city, surrounded by seaside towns, cool beaches, and natural wonders. Whether you’re staying in downtown Boston or out in the suburbs, whether you’re traveling with kids or on your own, there’s so much to see throughout Massachusetts and beyond.

And if there’s anything I know like the back of my hand, it’s Boston day trips — the ones that are worth it (Newburyport! Providence! Portland!), and the ones that are bad ideas.

Planning your trip to Boston last minute?

Boston is very popular and books up quickly year-round. Book ahead to avoid disappointment!

🦞 Top Day Trips from Boston:

• Salem in a Day from Boston: Witches Tour (My top recommendation!)
• Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip from Boston (LONG trip, but great place)
• Boston to Newport, RI Day Trip (Elegant mansions!)

🛌  Top-Rated Hotels in Buenos Aires:

• The Liberty Hotel (Former jail and super trendy!)
• Boston Park Plaza (Super nice and not too $$)
• Oasis Guest House (Great budget option)

🚗 Renting a car in Boston? Find deals on car rental rates here.

I grew up 20 minutes outside Boston — Reading, specifically — and spent several years living in Boston as an adult. Today, I spend much of the year in the Boston area with my family. I feel very lucky to be from New England, which is filled with fabulous places to visit, from my beloved Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to Provincetown, the funky tip of Cape Cod.

While most of these Boston day trips require a car, several of them can be done with public transportation. Read on to see which day trips from Boston are best for you.

I would like to acknowledge and honor the Massa-adchu-es-et (Massachusett), Pawtucket, Pokanoket, Wôpanâak (Wampanoag), Nauset, Pentucket, Abenaki/Abénaquis, Wabanaki and Mohican people, the Indigenous stewards and traditional owners of the unceded land now known as the Greater Boston area.

This post was last updated in March 2024.

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from Boston

There are lots of day trips from Boston — but which ones are best? It all depends on what you’re looking for as a traveler.

My top three Boston day trips are the seaside town of Newburyport ; Provincetown , the funky tip of Cape Cod; and one of my favorite small cities, Portsmouth, New Hampshire .

North of Boston, I recommend Crane’s Beach in Ipswich . South of Boston, I recommend Duxbury Beach in Duxbury .

If you want to do a day trip from Boston on public transportation, I recommend the seaside town of Newburyport by train, the foodie city of Portland, Maine , by train, and the fun Cape Cod town of Provincetown by ferry.

Check out the deCordova Sculpture Park in Lincoln , spend the day in York, Maine , or have a fun beach day in Duxbury .

In winter many smaller towns in New England are virtually closed down. I would bundle up and visit another busy, active city like Portland, Maine or Providence, Rhode Island .

There’s a lot to consider, so here are my four big tips:

Tip #1: Don’t go overboard with history-oriented day trips if you’re not into history.

Yep, we’ve got a lot of wonderful historic sites in New England, and most travel writers tend to disproportionally play them up, but not everyone is up for doing historic day trip after historic day trip. I know I’m not.

Tip #2: Don’t just visit other cities.

Portland, Portsmouth, and Providence are great, but if you’re in Boston, you’re already in a city, and you shouldn’t miss out on the other side of New England: small towns and areas of natural beauty.

Tip #3: Keep your destinations within a two-hour drive.

If not, you’ll be spending a huge chunk of your day driving. Each destination I’m listing here is within a two-hour drive of Boston, with the occasional exception noted.

Tip #4: Make sure you have the right train station.

Boston has two main train stations: North Station and South Station. Trains to northern destinations depart from North Station; trains to southern destinations depart from South Station. There is also Back Bay Station, which is the first stop after South Station, so if you’re staying around Back Bay, you can just hop on the train there. Buses depart from South Station Bus Terminal.

Newburyport, Massachusetts

If you’re looking for quintessential New England seaside towns, Newburyport is one of my absolute favorites. This is small town New England at its best. Located north of Boston on a convenient commuter rail line, Newbury has a lovely waterfront, a beautiful downtown area with lots of fun shops, and easy access to the beach and wildlife at Plum Island.

Best things to do in Newburyport: This is a nice town for just walking around, and I encourage you to go in without too big of an agenda. Walk along the waterfront, browse the treasures at Oldies Marketplace , visit the Custom House Maritime Museum or Cushing House (the Museum of Old Newbury) , or even go on a food tour with Taste Newburyport .

Plum Island, a barrier island along the coast, is technically split between the towns of Newburyport, Newbury, Rowley, and Ipswich. You can stake out a nice spot on the beach — but Plum Island really excels at wildlife. Check out the bird life at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge , go kayaking, ride your bike along the trails, and enjoy the atmosphere.

There are plenty of dining options in Newburyport, but if you want a really local spot, head to The Grog . There’s nowhere else I go in town. This hole-in-the-wall pub has dollar oysters (you need to ask for them!), lots of interesting beers on tap, and delicious appetizers, including a nice chowder.

How to get from Boston to Newburyport: Newburyport is about a 45-minute drive from Boston. The train from Boston (North Station) to Newburyport takes one hour. If you’re heading to Plum Island, you’ll want to have a car.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

If you’re looking for a summertime day trip that combines a nice beach and an active town, both classic New England style and modern hotspot, Provincetown is the perfect choice! P-Town, a popular summer destination and legendary LGBTQ summer getaway, is at the very tip of Cape Cod.

Normally, I don’t recommend doing a day trip to Cape Cod during the summer because you’ll inevitably be sitting in hours of traffic at the Sagamore Bridge. But Provincetown is the one exception — because you take the ferry! The fast ferry runs direct from Boston to Provincetown from mid-May through mid-October, and it only takes 95 minutes each way. You can check the ferry schedule here.

In Provincetown, you can have a beach day or an exploration day — or a little bit of both!

Best things to do in Provincetown: Enjoy relaxing at Racepoint Beach, check out the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum (the only permanent exhibition that tells the story of the Pilgrims’ arrival from the point of view of the Wampanoag), explore the shops and galleries on Commercial Street, go wine tasting at Truro Vineyards (just south of Provincetown in North Truro), try beers at the Provincetown Brewing Company , see a Zoe Lewis show .

See the full list of things to do in Provincetown here .

If you’re going to eat, check out The Lobster Pot — check out their Portuguese soup with red beans, kale, linguica, and chorizo, featured by Anthony Bourdain on Parts Unknown . Southeast Massachusetts is home to a big Portuguese community, so take advantage!

How to get from Boston to Provincetown: The fast ferry takes 95 minutes and departs from the World Trade Center in Boston’s Seaport District. That’s the only way I’d recommend doing a day trip, as the drive to Provincetown takes 2.5 hours without factoring in the bottleneck at the Sagamore Bridge.

Want more? See my full Provincetown guide here!

Martha’s Vineyard

Is it possible to do a day trip from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard? Yes, it is, but it’s best done as a tour from Boston . Honestly, I highly recommend staying at least overnight, or for a few days, but if all you have is a day, you can absolutely make it happen.

I absolutely love Martha’s Vineyard and especially love exploring it by car. Just keep in mind that if you visit during the summer months, there can be a TON of traffic heading down the Cape. I would not do this from Friday through Sunday during the summer months.

Best things to do in Martha’s Vineyard: Start in the beautiful town of Oak Bluffs and visit all the colorful gingerbread houses, followed by a spin on the carousel. If you don’t have a car, I recommend renting a bike and riding down to Edgartown , which is SUCH a beautiful town. From Edgartown you can take the Chappy Ferry to Chappaquiddick Island , which is perfect to explore by bike.

And if you have time in the evening, I highly recommend checking out the stunning Aquinnah Cliffs and/or Moshup Beach, my favorite beach in Martha’s Vineyard, late in the afternoon, followed by sunset in the fishing village of Menemsha. And another lovely town to explore is Vineyard Haven , with lots of cute shops and the Black Dog.

How to get from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard: If you’re doing a day trip from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard, I strongly suggest you book this tour . With limited time, it will be far easier if you have professionals taking you directly.

Otherwise, you can drive to Woods Hole on Cape Cod (80 minutes, but longer during the summer), and take the Steamship Authority ferry to either Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard (one hour). This ferry allows cars.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is one of my favorite places to take people visiting New England for the first time. It simultaneously has the feeling of a small town and a medium-sized city, all perched on New Hampshire’s brief sliver of coastline, a stone’s throw from Maine. It has a funky, almost bohemian feel in some parts. Throw in fresh seafood and surprisingly few tourists and you’ve got a great spot for a day trip from Boston.

Portsmouth is on a lovely stretch of waterfront, just across the water from Kittery, Maine , so it pairs well with the south coast of Maine. I often pair a day trip to Portsmouth with a visit to The Maine Diner in nearby Wells, Maine, one of my favorite restaurants on the planet.

Best things to do in Portsmouth: Portsmouth, like Newburyport, is the kind of destination that lends itself to walking around and exploring. Browse the Portsmouth Book & Bar bookstore while enjoying a coffee or beer, explore the shops on Market Square, check out the Strawbery Banke Museum and its historic homes, take a self-guided tour of the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire , try some beers at the Portsmouth Brewery , and walk across the bridge into Maine (fun if you’ve never walked into another state before!).

As for where to eat, there are tons of spots! My favorite is The Friendly Toast , a joyful diner-like spot serving up creative dishes. River House is a great spot for dining right on the water. Portsmouth Brewery has a great menu of American comfort classics.

How to get from Boston to Portsmouth: Portsmouth is about an hourlong drive from Boston. There are also buses that take an hour and 20 minutes from South Station Bus Terminal.

See more on my sister site, New Hampshire Way:

• 27 Fun Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH
• Best Portsmouth NH Restaurants
• Best Bars in Portsmouth, NH
• Best Portsmouth, NH Hotels and B&Bs

South Coast of Maine

Ever wanted to visit Maine? You can absolutely do that on a day trip from Boston! Maine’s south coast is closer to Boston than you’d think. (So close, in fact, that some people refer to the south coast as “North Massachusetts.” Hehe.) Even so, you’ll see that Maine has a personality all its own, where life is slower, houses are brighter, and relationships are strong.

Ideally, I recommend visiting a few destinations in a single day trip. Morning in Kennebunkport, late lunch at the Maine Diner in Wells, and an afternoon and evening in Ogunquit would be lovely! Here are destinations in southern Maine worth visiting, from north to south:

Kennebunkport — Most famous for its longtime summer residents, George and Barbara Bush, Kennebunkport is one of the classic beauties of southern Maine. The town is beautiful on its own; it’s also home to Gooch’s Beach, a few nice museums, food tours , and trolley tours .

Wells — Home to a lovely stretch of beach and one of my favorite restaurants on the planet, The Maine Diner . They make the best seafood chowder IN THE WORLD, a fantastic lobster pie, a hot lobster roll with butter, blueberry pie, and a dish my friends and I swear we’re going to order someday, the Clam-o-Rama. Everything here is good, even if you don’t eat seafood.

Ogunquit — An artsy, colorful village and popular LGBTQ vacation spot, home to nice beaches and a rocky cove, Ogunquit is one of the most photogenic spots in a very photogenic state. Come here to enjoy the beach, hang out at the bars, explore the shops, or catch a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse. You can see my full guide to Ogunquit here.

York — Home to a large, calm beach, a picture-perfect lighthouse, a carnival-like fun park, and one of the coolest candy stores around, York makes an especially good choice for families with young kids. It’s good for a brief drop-in or a lazy day away. You can see my full guide on York, Maine here .

Kittery — At the southern edge of Maine, Kittery is most famous for its outlet shopping and pretty waterfront. It’s right next door to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, so these destinations pair well together. You can see my full guide to Kittery here.

Portland, Maine, is just north of Kennebunkport but it’s more of a standalone destination. See more on that below .

How to get from Boston to Maine: Kennebunkport is about a 90-minute drive from Boston; the other towns are closer. This is one Boston day trip I recommend doing by car as there are lots of small towns to see and the public transport connections aren’t the best.

Read More: My Guide to Ogunquit, Maine

Salem, Massachusetts

The city of witches. The city of history. The city that welcomed my 12-year-old great-grandfather when he arrived on a boat from Sicily at age 12, alone. Salem is a very popular day trip from Boston, especially for people looking for historic and/or educational day trips. And the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 have led to a community of witches, Wiccans, and those interested in the occult today, making it a strange blend with the maritime history!

I’ve written a full guide to visiting Salem if you’d like more in-depth information!

I think Salem is worth visiting if you’re really into history or you’re visiting during October, when Haunted Happenings brings a full month of celebrations. And Halloween night in Salem is a TON of fun! Beyond that, I would go with somewhere else on this list. On the North Shore, Newburyport and Rockport are much nicer. Even Marblehead, next door to Salem, is nicer.

Best Things to Do in Salem: Check out the Salem Witch Museum , visit the House of the Seven Gables , get a tarot or palm reading , visit the Peabody Essex Museum , go on a ghost tour .

How to get from Boston to Salem: If you want a guided tour, I highly recommend this Salem day trip from Boston from Walks . Salem is about 30 minutes from Boston, either by driving or by train from North Station. You can also get there by ferry on Boston Harbor Cruises. Check the ferry schedule here.

25 Spooky, Historic Things to Do in Salem, Massachusetts

Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts

Yes, the shot heard ’round the world was first fired from Lexington and Concord, starting the American Revolution. Massachusetts bleeds Revolutionary War history, and Lexington and Concord are great towns to explore that time period — as well as literary history. These towns were home to Louisa May Alcott, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and more.

If you’re into history of this time period — or craving a break from Boston’s crowds and skyscrapers — Lexington and Concord, two historic towns side by side, make a lovely Boston day trip.

Best things to do in Lexington and Concord: Check out Walden Pond , a natural escape where Thoreau wrote Walden ; dive into American Revolution history at Minuteman Historic Park ; see Louisa May Alcott’s home at Orchard House ; tour the Battle Green , where the shot heard ’round the world was fired; check out Lexington’s historic buildings like Buckman Tavern and Hancock-Clarke House.

For food, continue the historic theme at Concord’s Colonial Inn , which dates back to 1716 and has two restaurants serving classic Yankee dishes alongside more modern offerings.

How to get from Boston to Lexington: Lexington is about a 20-minute drive from Boston; there are public transportation connections that take closer to an hour. I recommend doing Lexington and Concord by car because the attractions are pretty spread out.

Rockport, Massachusetts

If you’re looking for a visually stunning small seaside town in Massachusetts, you’re going to love Rockport . This little town on Cape Ann, the “other” cape in northeast Massachusetts, makes a beautiful day trip. There’s a reason why North Shore residents treasure Rockport as a lovely weekend getaway.

My favorite fun fact about Rockport is that it was the filming location for Sandra Bullock and Betty White’s small Alaskan village in the movie The Proposal ! Seriously! It’s worth watching before you go to Rockport. Bearskin Neck, a tiny neighborhood of shops perched on the edge of town, could surprisingly look like a fishing village anywhere.

Best things to do in Rockport: Photograph all the fishing boats and painted cottages; check out the shops and art galleries on Bearskin Neck, sample all the fudges of Rockport Fudgery , relax on the beaches, take a walk along the rocky coastline at Halibut Point State Park , go on a Cape Ann whale watch . Also, don’t overlook Gloucester, the town next door and a short drive away!

As for where to eat in Rockport, the quintessential experience is getting a lobster roll at Roy Moore Lobster Co . and eat it while looking over the water. Alternatively, head to the Azorean Restaurant and Bar in nearby Gloucester to enjoy flavors of Portugal’s Atlantic archipelago.

How to get from Boston to Rockport: Rockport is about a 50-minute drive from Boston. You can also take the train from Boston (North Station) to Manchester (50 minutes) and from there take the connecting shuttle to Rockport (28 minutes).

Read More: 27 Fun Things To Do in Rockport, MA

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport may be another seaside New England town — but this one is a hell of a lot fancier. Newport is famous for its mansions, sailing, and history as one of the see-and-be-seen destinations among the American elite. During the Gilded Age, Newport became THE summer destination of America’s greatest thinkers, with a party scene to match.

But is a destination for famous rich people in the 1900s worth visiting today? Absolutely. Newport today has lots of historical sites to explore, but at its heart it’s a modern city. You come here for beaches and breweries, donut shops and Instagrammable cliff walks. And, of course, mansions that make you want to sing, “My God, this house is freakin’ sweet!”

Best things to do in Newport: Go on the Cliff Walk , a 3.5-mile journey along the coastline, passing some of the biggest mansions; visit The Breakers , the most insane mansion in all of Newport; chill out on the beaches; try beers at Newport Brewing Company or wines at Newport Vineyards ; explore the (much smaller!) colonial-era homes of The Point; visit the Newport Art Museum ; watch the sunset over Naragansett Bay.

For eating, Jo’s American Bistro does a fabulous lobster carbonara and features a $20.95 prix fixe menu Sunday to Thursday — great value if you’re doing a day trip from Boston during the week.

How to get from Boston to Newport: Newport is about a 1.5-hour drive from Boston. I highly recommend this day trip from Boston , which includes transportation and the mansions.

There is a bus departing South Station that takes 2.5 hours. You can also take the train from South Station to Providence, then a bus to Newport, but I think that’s too much of a hassle for a day trip.

White Mountains, New Hampshire

If you’re looking for a fall foliage day trip from Boston, the White Mountains are my top recommendation. This is one of the most gorgeous fall getaways in New England, but most outsiders haven’t even heard of it. But it also makes a great trip in late spring or summer, with tons of great outdoor activities.

(If you’re visiting the White Mountains for fall colors, keep in mind that the White Mountains are further north and at a higher altitude than Boston, so the leaves change earlier. Peak foliage tends to be the first week of October. See more on that in my Best Time to Visit Boston post.)

I grew up camping in the White Mountains every summer — specifically, at White Lake State Park in Tamworth. If you want to go chill out at a lake for a day, this is a great spot! It gets busy on summer weekends but it’s mostly quiet the rest of the time.

Note that the White Mountains are the only day trip I recommend that is more than two hours from Boston. If you’re up for a BIG day in beautiful nature, I think it’s worth it. If that’s a bit far for you for a day trip, consider staying overnight.

Best things to do in the White Mountains: Explore the cute downtown of North Conway ( Zebs General Store is a must), drive the Kancamagus Highway and explore the stops, hike through the Flume Gorge or Lost River Gorge , do a canopy tour at Alpine Adventures , take the Mount Washington Cog Railway up Mount Washington. Or just drive around, listening to music and admiring the scenery.

How to get from Boston to the White Mountains: North Conway is about a 2.5-hour drive from Boston; Lincoln is about a two-hour drive (and literally right on route 93). Though there are some buses to North Conway, this is one day trip that is best done by car.

• 30 Unforgettable Things to Do in the White Mountains
• 31 Fun Things to Do in North Conway, NH
• Hiking the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire
• Complete Guide to Driving the Kancamagus Highway, NH

Portland, Maine

It’s far more than just “the other Portland” — Portland, Maine, is one of the emerging foodie destinations of the United States. If you love cities but feel like Boston is a bit overwhelming and large, Portland might be more your speed! Especially if you love to taste the local libations. It’s the best of a small city and a fishing village, all rolled into one.

My friends and I decided to plan our friend’s bachelorette in Portland on a whim — none of us were too familiar with the city. It turned out to be a fabulous idea and became one of our favorite getaways. You can read about that trip here.

Best things to do in Portland, Maine: Go mead tasting at Maine Meadworks , spirit tasting at Maine Craft Distilling , and kombucha tasting at Urban Farm Fermentory ; check out the Portland Head Light lighthouse; explore the Old Port, downtown Portland’s quirky shops and boutiques; go on a lobstering tour by boat; visit the Portland Museum of Art ; go on a Portland food tour.

As for where to eat in Portland — well, you’ve got plenty of choices. I especially recommend Duckfat for sandwiches and fries and the Holy Donut for potato donuts (trust me, they’re great). If you’re looking for a truly special dinner, Fore Street serves hyper-local fine cuisine and serves especially good seafood. Book early.

How to get from Boston to Portland: Portland is a 1-hour and 45-minute drive from Boston. There are also trains (two hours, departing from North Station) and buses (2.5 hours, departing from South Station Bus Terminal).

Providence, Rhode Island

Yet another fabulous New England city in a smaller package — one with a distinctive artistic flair. Providence, home to the Rhode Island School of Design, is a great place to visit and an underrated gem of New England. Sure, it’s got history, pretty neighborhoods, interesting restaurants and some memorable celebrations. But it stays firmly under the radar — and likes it that way.

If you’re visiting Providence in the summer, see if you can time your visit to see Waterfire , a festival in downtown Providence where artistic fire installations erupt over the water and local businesses open for celebration. This takes place several times during the summer months, so double-check the datess before you go!

Best things to do in Providence: Visit the RISD Museum , the Museum of the Rhode Island School of Design; fall in love with the Providence Athenaeum , a stunning library straight out of Beauty and the Beast ; go on a Providence brewery crawl ( see a map of local breweries here ); go Italian food-hopping in the Federal Hill neighborhood; take a long walk through Roger Williams Park, the largest and best maintained park in town.

Food-wise, don’t forget to try Rhode Island-style calamari and coffee milk (yes, it’s like chocolate milk, but with coffee-flavored syrup), my two Rhode Island favorites! If you want to go fancy, I recommend Persimmon ; if you want to go funky, I recommend the Peruvian and Bolivian Los Andes ; if you want to go cheap and fun, go for Korean food at Den Den .

How to get from Boston to Providence: Providence is about an hour’s drive from Boston, but the train from South Station takes closer to 38 minutes. There are also hourlong buses from South Station Bus Terminal.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts*

Should you do a day trip from Boston to Cape Cod — or down the Cape, as we Bostonians say? I actually don’t recommend doing so during the summer months.

Cape Cod is a summer destination, for obvious reasons. It’s all about beaches and ice cream stands and bike rides. And it is best explored by car, giving you the freedom to explore small towns at your own pace.

But what other guides don’t tell you is that summer traffic bottlenecks up at the Sagamore Bridge, which could add hours to your trip in either direction. It’s one of Boston’s dirty secrets. Do you want to be stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic twice in a single day?

If you’re going to do a day trip to Cape Cod during the summer, I recommend the aforementioned day trip to Provincetown by boat. That’s a nice, traffic-free journey from Boston that won’t slice hours off your trip.

If you’re visiting more in the off-season — say, May through early June, or September or October — a Cape Cod day trip is much more doable, but know that it won’t be in full summer mode.

Best things to do in Cape Cod: The Cape is another place that lends itself to wandering and seeing what you find. Go find your perfect piece of beach on the Cape Cod National Seashore ; go on a catamaran sailing trip , rent a bike and head down the Cape Cod Rail Trail , catch a Cape Cod Baseball League game, see a movie at the Wellfleet Drive-In , check out the Sandwich Glass Museum .

Food-wise, why not try out some fabulous Wellfleet oysters right at the source? Check out The Impudent Oyster in Chatham, The Wicked Oyster in Wellfleet, and The Naked Oyster in Hyannis.

How to Get from Boston to Cape Cod: Hyannis is about a 1.5-hour drive from Boston if there’s no bridge traffic. There is also a two-hour, 20-minute train to Hyannis from South Station; it also stops at Buzzards Bay and Bourne.

Beach Day Trips From Boston

If you’re looking for a fun beach day trip, and somewhere nicer than Boston’s T-accessible beaches like Revere Beach or Carson Beach, consider taking a day trip to one of the NICE ones!

You don’t even have to go down the Cape — there are a lot of nice beaches on the North Shore (north of Boston) and the South Shore (south of Boston). Here are some worth considering:

Best Beaches North of Boston

Here they are, from south to north:

Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea — A gorgeous beach with “singing” sand that’s also accessible by train from Boston! No car necessary! (It’s about a half-mile walk from the station to the beach.)

Crane’s Beach in Ipswich — One of the most beloved beaches in New England, long and expansive with soft sand.

Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester — One of my high school favorites, with fabulously clear water (by New England standards, at least) at low tide and lots of big rocks to climb.

Salisbury Beach in Salisbury — A long, endless-seaming beach with big waves, right next to the New Hampshire border.

Best Beaches South of Boston

Here they are, north to south:

Nantasket Beach in Hull — A narrow beach on a wispy peninsula near Boston Harbor, a really good choice if you want to pair your beach day with a lively boardwalk-type atmosphere.

Duxbury Beach in Duxbury — One of the most solid all-around beach options in the area, and if you’re there, you might as well try their trademark oysters!

Horseneck Beach State Reservation in Westport — Buzzards Bay is one of the big Massachusetts secrets — it’s the Cape, but before the Sagamore Bridge, so no bottleneck to get there! Soft white sand greets you here.

Museum Day Trips From Boston

Yes, Boston has some of the best museums in the United States — but there are plenty of excellent museums outside the city, too! Here are some of the notable ones that I recommend doing as a day trip from Boston:

New England Whaling Museum in New Bedford, Massachusetts — This is a surprisingly lovely museum that isn’t so much about hunting whales as about the entire seafaring industry over several centuries. (And a spectacular wedding venue! I was a bridesmaid in a wedding here.)

Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts — One of my personal favorite museums in Massachusetts, this museum is a monument to the quintessential New England illustrations and journey to activism of Norman Rockwell.

Plimoth Patuxet Museums in Plymouth, Massachusetts — Formerly Plimouth Plantation, this historic site brings to life Plymouth Colony and the Indigenous peoples who called this area home. (Nearby Plymouth Rock is often cited as the most underwhelming site in Massachusetts, so be prepared for that.)

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts — If you’re a basketball fan in the least, come down to where basketball was invented! This museum has a massive collection of memorabilia.

deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln, Massachusetts — A really fun place to visit on a nice day, deCordova is the largest sculpture park in New England, featuring giant works of art over 30 acres.

Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, Massachusetts — A living museum that brings the late 1800s to life, costumed historians showing you what life was like more than 100 years ago.

Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts — Whether you do the full Salem day trip or not, PEM is one of the hidden gems on the North Shore, with a lovely collection of global art, as well as local treasures.

Shopping Day Trips from Boston

Are you here to do some serious shopping? You’ve got options. A lot of people from Massachusetts customarily head to New Hampshire to make big purchases, as there’s no sales tax there. The Mall of New Hampshire and the Mall in Rockingham Park are popular for this reason. (The people at the Apple Store in Nashua practically know me by name at this point.)

But there are some destinations near Boston that work as day trips or half-day trips on their own.

Wrentham Village Premium Outlets — The Wrentham Outlets usually get all the attention, thanks to their high-end shops. Here you have designer outlets like Armani, Gucci, and Ferragamo as well as more mainstream outlets like Gap, Express, and Adidas.

Kittery Outlets — In Maine’s southernmost town, next door to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this small outlets collection includes primarily mainstream shops like Nike, Ann Taylor, and Lululemon, with cool additions like Le Creuset. Not quite a standalone destination but it pairs well with a trip to Portsmouth or southern Maine.

Merrimack Premium Outlets — These outlets in Merrimack, New Hampshire, have the bonus of no sales tax! Mainstream stores include Bath and Body Works, J. Crew, Kate Spade, the Disney Store, and more.

Boston Day Trips to Avoid

Do not take a day trip to Acadia National Park in Maine. Not only is it WAY up north, way beyond a doable day trip, it also books out several months in advance. My suggestion? Plan a longer road trip up to Acadia and back.

Do not take a day trip to Burlington, Vermont. I love that little city, but it’s four hours away. If you go, go for the weekend, not a day trip.

Do not take a day trip to the Berkshires. Some people do it, but I think it’s a bit too far, with the POSSIBLE exception of Stockbridge , which is 2.5 hours by car and right off the Mass. Pike. Other destinations like North Adams, Williamstown, and Great Barrington are much further.

The Berkshires are wonderful — but it’s much better if you stay for a few days, or overnight. Be sure to check out my ultimate travel guide to the Berkshires , which will help you plan an awesome trip!

Do not plan a Connecticut casino day trip unless you know what you’re in for. Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods brand themselves as sexy resorts — but I find them depressing, smoky, and the furthest thing from sexy. If you’re expecting the party vibes of Las Vegas, you’ll be disappointed.

And be especially careful about planning trips in the winter. Some of these destinations get very quiet — especially the small seaside towns. And if it’s going to snow, don’t go anywhere ! You don’t want to be caught up in a nor’easter when you’re far from home.

Best of Boston:

• What NOT to Do in Boston
• Where to Stay in Boston: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels
• 40+ Fun Things to Do in Boston at Night
• Best Time to Visit Boston
• 24 Interesting Things to Do in Cambridge, Mass.
• 21 Best Museums in Boston

Cape Cod & the Islands:

• Which of the Towns of Cape Cod is Best for You?
• 24 Fab Things to Do in Cape Cod
• 22 Fabulous Things to Do in Provincetown, MA
• Which Of The 6 Martha’s Vineyard Towns Is Best For You?
• A Guide to Oak Bluffs, MA — Home of the Gingerbread Houses
• A Guide to Edgartown, MA — Prettiest Martha’s Vineyard Town
• A Guide to Vineyard Haven, MA — Authentic Town on Martha’s Vineyard

Western Massachusetts:

• 33 Best Things to Do in the Berkshires
• Best Towns in the Berkshires, Massachusetts
• 24 Cool Things to Do in Lenox, MA
• 12 Fun Things to Do in Stockbridge, MA

North Shore:

• 27 Fun Things to Do in Rockport, Mass.
• 25 Spooky, Haunted Things to Do in Salem, Mass.

Have you been to Boston? Do you have any day trip recommendations? Share away!

Sam Adams Brewery Tours

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Skiing Near Boston

Beaches Near Boston

Hikes Near Boston

Boston Public Garden

Museums in Boston

Fenway Park Guide

Shopping in Boston

The Best Time to Visit Boston

Weather & Climate

Neighborhoods to Know

Driving in Boston

Public Transportation in Boston

One-Day Itinerary

Day Trips From Boston

The 13 Best Day Trips from Boston

Boston is a historic city with plenty of things to do and places to see, but there’s also lots more to explore outside the city limits. Whether you’re heading north to the mountains to ski or taking the ferry to Cape Cod’s Provincetown , there are day trips to take in every direction. Read on for our recommendations, all within driving distance and some you can even access by public transportation.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

DenisTangeyJr/Getty Images

Portsmouth is a historic coastal New Hampshire city that may be small in size but is full of character and popular restaurants. Have drinks along the docks on Bow Street as the sun sets at Pocos , Martingale Wharf or the Old Ferry Landing . For a seafood dinner with a view, try Surf , also on Bow Street. And for a casual yet tasty breakfast, you can’t go wrong with Colby’s .

Those visiting Portsmouth will enjoy walking around Prescott Park and learning about the history of Portsmouth at the Strawbery Banke Museum . Make sure you reserve some time for walking around the downtown area and popping into shops along the way. This city is growing year-by-year, with hotels and condos being built up as it grows in popularity.

Getting There: Portsmouth is about an hour and a half from Boston and the best way to get there is by car. If you don’t have a car, you can also take the C&J Bus Line.

Travel Tip: Pack a beach chair and drive down Route 1A to take in the Seacoast’s beaches. One of the first destinations you’ll come across in Rye is Ordiorne State Park , where you can walk around along the ocean. Eventually, you’ll get to Hampton Beach before you cross back over into Massachusetts.

Boston Area Beaches

David Robinson/EyeEm/Getty Images

On a hot summer day, or even when the sun is shining in the spring or fall, there are plenty of beaches in the Boston area to spend a day relaxing at.

On your way back from Portsmouth, drive south along the ocean until you reach the beaches in Rye, or continue on to the popular Hampton Beach strip, where there’s a big beach and plenty of restaurants. Just over the Massachusetts border is Salisbury Beach, another day trip spot just over an hour north of Boston. Other beautiful beaches on Boston’s North Shore include Wingaersheek and Good Harbor Beaches in Gloucester , Plum Island Beach in Newburyport, Crane Beach in Ipswich, Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea and Revere Beach in Revere.

The South Shore’s beaches are equally as beautiful, with one of the closest options being Wollaston Beach in Quincy, and then many others including Duxbury Beach in Duxbury and Nantasket Beach in Hull. Of course, you can continue south to Cape Cod for plenty more beaches to choose from.

Getting There: Most of these beaches are only accessible by car and the furthest options listed are a maximum of 1.5 hours away, depending on traffic and where you are coming from. If you prefer public transportation , you can get to Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea and Revere Beach in Revere by the Commuter Rail and MBTA Blue Line, respectively.

Travel Tip: If you want to hit the beach but aren’t the type to stay from sunrise to sunset, try one of the beaches on New Hampshire’s Seacoast and then plan to stop explore Portsmouth before or after. The same applies to Plum Island and Newburyport. 

Newburyport, Massachusetts

ivanastar/Getty Images

Newburyport is another coastal town, which feels similar to downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire in many ways. It was settled back in 1635 but has of course modernized over the years. Newburyport is most popular during the summer months given its location and nearby beaches, including Plum Island . But Newburyport is an ideal day trip from Boston at any time of year, as there are quite a few shops to stop by, restaurants to eat at and scenery to take in.

Getting There: Most people drive to Newburyport from Boston, as it’s under an hour and right off exit 56 on I-95 North. You can also take the Newburyport/Rockland Commuter Rail line from North Station.

Travel Tip: While you’re in Newburyport, drive over to Plum Island to spend some time at the beach, no matter what time of year. 

Provincetown, Massachusetts

Photography by Deb Snelson/Getty Images 

Located at the very tip of Cape Cod is Provincetown (also known as “P-Town”), best known as a gay resort community, but also a beautiful place to visit for a day, weekend or more. While driving to the end of the Cape may not seem like a day trip, it’s easy to get there via a 90-minute ferry through Bay State Cruise Company.

Provincetown is surrounded by water on three sides with several beaches to enjoy. Both during the day and in the evening, check out the downtown area’s restaurants, art galleries, boutiques and more.

If you're not able to make it to Provincetown, there are plenty of Cape Cod towns within a shorter driving range.

Getting There: Take the 90-minute Bay State Cruise Company ferry from Boston, which is the fastest way to get there. The ferry operates daily from mid-May to mid-October, with trips leaving Boston three times a day. If you prefer to drive through the Cape, it will take you over two hours, but typically longer, as the roads are oftentimes single-lane and traffic can be bad.

Travel Tip: You’ll find fresh lobster rolls all over Provincetown, but be sure to stop by The Canteen , which serves both hot and cold options.

Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, Massachusetts

grantreig/Gettyimages 

Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are two islands off the coast of Massachusetts, both of which are popular tourist destinations, especially during the summer months. Both are doable for day trips, especially Martha’s Vineyard, as it’s a bit shorter of a ferry ride. Both islands are quiet during the winter months, so plan your visit from Spring through Fall.

Vineyard Haven in Martha’s Vineyard, where the ferry drops you off, is full of shops and restaurants. You can also head to nearby Oak Bluffs, where you’ll find the 318 colorful Gingerbread Cottages at Wesleyan Grove off of Circuit Street. If you bring your bike or car along, you can explore the island’s beaches and other downtown areas as well.

Nantucket has different coastal vibe than Martha’s Vineyard and is also smaller in size. Here you’ll find cobblestone streets downtown and picture-worthy homes covered in hydrangeas all over the island. Of course, there are beautiful beaches around the island, along with food, galleries and boutiques. Stop by Cisco Brewers for a taste of local beer, which has become more and more popular throughout New England. And have a drink made with Nantucket’s Triple Eight Blueberry Vodka at one of the bars downtown.

Getting There: Martha’s Vineyard is a 45-minute ferry ride via the Steamship Authority from Woods Hole, which takes you to Vineyard Haven. The fast ferry to Nantucket is through Hy-Line Cruises , takes an hour and leaves from Hyannis. There are slower ferry options available, but these are the most efficient for a day trip. Keep in mind that Hyannis and Woods Hole are both on Cape Cod, so you’ll need to leave time for traffic if you’re traveling during peak hours. Both islands can also be accessed by plane from Boston’s Logan International Airport .

Travel Tip: You can choose to bring a car onto the ferry, but it’s recommended that you make plans for that in advance. That, coupled with the cost, is the reason many people choose to take a bike or get around Martha’s Vineyard through the Vineyard Transit Authority.

Providence, Rhode Island

About an hour drive south from Boston is the city of Providence, Rhode Island, also known as the “Creative Capital.” This city has become a popular tourist spot over the years, with popular attractions including WaterFire , a series of over 80 bonfires along downtown Providence’s three rivers, or the annual Halloween Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular or the Faces of the Rainforest exhibit at the Roger Williams Park Zoo . From November through March, head to the Providence Rink for Ice Bumper Cars .

Providence also has a foodie scene, with chefs coming from Rhode Island’s Johnson & Wales opening restaurants within the city, such as Oberlin , a seafood-focused small plates and tapas concept. If you’re looking for Italian, head to Federal Hill , the Little Italy of Providence. The Dorrance is another reputable spot, located within a former bank and serving globally-inspired New England cuisine. And while you’re in town, stop by PVDonuts for delicious and unique brioche donuts in fun flavors like fruit pebbles, butterscotch crunch and brown butter brownie.

Popular Providence hotels include The Dean , built around the city’s history and culture, and the Providence Biltmore , a historic property designed by the architects of New York’s Grand Central Terminal, and the Hotel Providence , another centrally located option that’s great for all types of travelers.

Getting There: Providence is an hour drive from Boston. You can also get there by train , including the Amtrak and MBTA Commuter Rail on the Providence-Stoughton line, both leaving from Boston’s South Station.

Travel Tip: For the best pizza in town, try no-frills Caserta Pizza , also known for their “Wimpy Skimpy,” a spinach pie stuffed with black olives, cheese & pepperoni.

Newport, Rhode Island

 Forty 1° North

Newport, Rhode Island is another coastal town within driving distance from Boston. Here you’ll find the makings of a perfect day trip, from the Gilded Age mansions and beaches, to walking along the famous Cliff Walk. Visitors also enjoy exploring the Brick Market Place , a downtown are with more than 25 shops and eateries. If anyone you’re traveling with is into cars, check out the Newport Car Museum , located in nearby Portsmouth.

Favorite Newport restaurants include The White Horse Tavern, America’s oldest tavern, Winner Winner , Scarpetta Newport , The Black Pearl and Mission Burger . If you plan on staying overnight, top-rated hotels and resorts include The Vanderbilt, Forty 1° North , Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina and The Chanler at Cliff Walk . Many of these hotels

Getting There: Newport is an hour and a half drive from Boston and car is the easiest way to get there.

Travel Tip: Even if you’re not staying overnight, many of the top hotels are also great spots to grab drinks with a view if you’re in town for just the day. Head over to Forty 1° North and order your favorite cocktail as you look out on the water.

Nashoba Valley Winery & Other Vineyards

 Nashoba Valley Winery

New England may not have a full-blown wine country, but there are several family-owned vineyards that make for great day trips, with at least one option nearby no matter where you are staying. From Boston, your best bet is the Nashoba Valley Winery , where you can sample the vineyard’s wines and also pick your own peaches, nectarines and apples when they are in season and enjoy farm-to-table food at J’s Restaurant.

Another Massachusetts option is Furnace Brook Winery in the Berkshires, about 2.5 hours away from Boston. An hour north of the city, there’s South Hampton, New Hampshire’s Jewell Towne Vineyards. In Rhode Island, try Verde Vineyards or Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard . As you head into Connecticut, follow the Connecticut Wine Trail and try the Lost Acres Vineyard in North Granby, Arrigoni Winery in Portland and Sharpe Hill Vineyard in Pomfret.

Getting There: The Nashoba Valley Winery is around an hour drive from Boston in Bolton, Massachusetts.

Travel Tip: If you plan on visiting several vineyards and wineries in one day, make sure you have a designated driver or look for transportation services, such as limos or tours to take you from one spot to another.

Mountains of Massachusetts and New Hampshire

JodiJacobson/Getty Images 

Speaking of Nashoba Valley, this destination is not only home to one of the best vineyards near Boston, but Nashoba Valley Ski Area is also a great winter destination for skiing and tubing if you’re into these activities but not long drives. Other places to ski in Massachusetts include Wachusett Mountain in Princeton, Blue Hills Ski Area in Canton and Ski Bradford in Haverhill.

As you head into New Hampshire , popular ski resorts and mountains include Waterville Valley Resort , Loon Mountain , Gunstock , Cannon and more. Another option, Bretton Woods , is not only a ski resort, but also home to the beautiful Omni Mount Washington Resort , which has plenty to do for both skiers and those who prefer après skiing activities. 

Getting There: Nashoba Valley Ski Area is less than an hour from Boston by car, and other Massachusetts ski destinations range between 40 minutes to a little over an hour. Most of the drivable New Hampshire mountains are just over two hours away from Boston.

Travel Tip: To make your ski trip even easier, try Liftopia Experiences , a service that will take you on trips from Boston such as skiing at Crotched Mountain or snow tubing at Ski Ward and to a local brewery. Outdoor retailer REI also offers classes and activities, such as a store to slopes shuttle  that takes you to Stratton Mountain.

Lincoln, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s White Mountains is where you’ll find the town of Lincoln, where Loon Mountain is located. But that’s not all Lincoln has to offer. During the winter months, the Ice Castles are a picturesque destination to visit. You can also go ice skating at The Rink at RiverWalk Resort , which was transformed from a 167,000 gallon swimming pool that’s available for guests in the summer. While you’re at the RiverWalk Resort, take a sleigh ride, go snowmobiling or taste wine at the Seven Birches Winery , which is right on the property.

Getting There: Lincoln is about two hours from Boston without traffic and your best bet for getting there is by car.

Travel Tip: Beware of traveling north from Boston during the winter months on Friday afternoons and evenings, as it’s likely you’ll run into traffic leaving the city as locals get out of work and head to the mountains. 

Plymouth, Massachusetts

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

One of the best spas in the Boston area is located south of the city in Plymouth at the Mirbeau Inn & Spa . There’s more than just great massages and facials here – there’s a heated foot pool surrounded by lounge chairs to relax in, as well as an outdoor jacuzzi to enjoy while you sip champagne from the bar.

While you’re in Plymouth, take a walk along the water and check out the iconic Plymouth Rock and Pilgrim Hall Museum , America’s oldest, continuously operated, public museum filled with artifacts that came to our country with the Pilgrims. Then head 3 miles down the road to the Plimouth Plantation museum.

Nearby in Carver, the kids will enjoy the Edaville Family Theme Park , which is particularly fun around the holidays with their Christmas Festival of Lights. 

With Plymouth being on the water, there’s plenty of fresh seafood and outdoor dining, with restaurant favorites including Woods Seafood , Rye Tavern , East Bay Grille and Cabby Shack .

Getting There: The easiest way to get to Plymouth is via car, which will take about an hour. There is also a Commuter Rail stop in Plymouth if you prefer public transportation.

Travel Tip: While the Plymouth Rock is certainly a Massachusetts landmark, don’t be surprised when it’s nothing substantial when you see the remains in person. There is still plenty to see and do in Plymouth though!

Portland, Maine

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images 

Portland, Maine may sound far away from Boston, but at two and a half hours away, it’s still doable for a day or weekend trip. This coastal downtown area has developed quite the foodie scene and it’s also a great spot to take in New England’s fall foliage season . Top restaurants include Fore Street , Central Provisions , Duckfat , Eventide Oyster Co. and Holy Donut . If you’re into beer, go for a tasting at Shipyard Brewing Company .

You can spend an entire weekend walking around downtown Portland and popping into shops, restaurants and bars. But another fun activity when the weather is nice to take the short ferry over to Peaks Island , where you can rent bikes or golf carts to cruise around the island and take in the coastal views.

Getting There: Portland is about two and a half hours away from Boston by car. Another option is to take Amtrak’s Downeaster from North Station in Boston to Portland, which takes about the same amount of time.

Travel Tip: Fore Street won a 2018 TripSavvy Editors’ Choice Award as one of the Best Iconic Restaurants & Fine Dining . This restaurant books up far in advance, but they reserve spots for walk-ins. The trick is to put your name in right when they open at 5:30 p.m.

Wrentham, Massachusetts

Wrentham Village Premium Outlets

Just south of the city are the  Wrentham Village Premium Outlets , a shopping plaza where both locals and tourists go to get lots of shopping done at once, especially around the holidays. As New England’s largest outdoor shopping center, you’ll find everything from Off Saks and Tory Burch, to Vineyard Vines and the Nike Factory Store.

Getting There: The Wrentham Village Premium Outlets are located just 35 miles south of Boston, right off exit 15 on I-495. The best way to get there is by car.

Travel Tip: Bring your AAA card if you have one. When you get there, show it at the visitor center to get a coupon book that will give you even more discounts than you get at the outlets. 

New England Gay Weekend Getaways - Best Weekend Trips from Boston

Provincetown Gay Guide Events Calendar

How to Spend One Week in Massachusetts

The Best Small Towns in Massachusetts

The 10 Best Beaches in New England

Family Vacations in the Northeast USA

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

Guide to an Atlantic Coast Road Trip

15 Best Islands in the US

Georges Island: The Complete Guide

12 Best Things to Do in Boston's West End

New England's 9 Best Free Attractions

The Ultimate East Coast Beach Road Trip

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

10 Top Road Trip Routes in the Northeastern US

8 of the best day trips from Boston

May 23, 2023 • 6 min read

From the beaches of Cape Cod to the historic museums in Plymouth, here are the best day trips from Boston © Cavan Images / Julia Cumes / Getty Images

Boston is rich with historic sites, artistic venues, swanky restaurants and outdoor adventure, and if you want to keep exploring, there’s even more to discover in the areas surrounding the city.

Battle sites, beaches, colonial landmarks, creative outposts and of course seafood – plenty of seafood! – are all within striking distance of Boston and mostly accessible by train, boat, bicycle and bus.

From Salem to Cape Cod, here are the best day trips from Boston.

1. Take the ferry to Provincetown, Cape Cod

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

At the outer tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown offers many delights for one little town – a collection of glorious beaches and bike trails through the dunes along the Cape Cod National Seashore , a vibrant artist community with galleries lined along Commercial St and a dynamic LGBTIQ+ scene. Another bonus: top-notch restaurants, such as Canteen , serving lobster rolls and crab paninis.

How to get to Provincetown from Boston: Provincetown is about 115 miles southeast of Boston. If you’re just coming for the day, the best way to get here is by ferry, operated by Boston Harbor Cruises (from Long Wharf) or Bay State Cruise Co (from the Seaport District).

2. Witness history at Minute Man National Historical Park

Travel time: 35 minutes

See where the Revolutionary War began on April 19, 1775, when colonial Minutemen stood up to the British Regulars who had marched out from Boston to confiscate their weapons. The two sides faced off first on the village green in Lexington (now called Battle Green ), and then near the North Bridge in Concord.

The National Historical Park includes the battle site at the North Bridge , as well as the route the soldiers followed (now called Battle Road ). Walking trails weave through the picturesque New England countryside past two informative visitor centers and a handful of historic buildings, where you can see ranger talks and musket demonstrations. Stop for a snack at Via Lago Café in Lexington or the Concord Cheese Shop in Concord.

How to get to Minute Man National Historical Park from Boston:  It's easiest to drive, but it's possible to take public transport. From South Station in Boston, MBTA commuter trains go to Concord. From the train depot, it’s 1.5 miles to the North Bridge Visitor Center, but you’ll need a vehicle to explore Battle Road. Ambitious travelers can cycle from Cambridge to Lexington on the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway (7 miles) and then continue to Concord via Battle Road (7 miles).

3. Remember the victims of the witch trials in Salem

Travel time: 1 hour

Salem has a rich but checkered history, from the colony’s tragic persecution of so-called witches in the 17th century to the town’s heyday as a maritime center in the 18th century. A score of sites recall the former, including a moving Witch Trials Memorial in honor of the victims.

Visitors can learn more about the area's rich sailing tradition at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site , which incorporates a handful of 18th-century buildings along Derby Wharf. Salem’s uncontested treasure is the Peabody Essex Museum , a wonderful collection of art and artifacts amassed from maritime trade. Stop at  Gulu-Gulu Cafe  when you need to recharge.

How to get to Salem from Boston: MBTA commuter trains run hourly from North Station to Salem. You can also take a pleasant ferry ride from Long Wharf, operated by Boston Harbor Cruises.

4. Learn about the Pilgrims in Plymouth

In 1620, a hardy band of Pilgrims set up the first permanent European settlement in New England at Plymouth. Visit the replica Mayflower II to imagine what their journey across the ocean might have been like. Afterward, head to  Plimoth Patuxet Museums  to experience what life in the settlement was like for the Pilgrims and the Native people who have lived there for more than 10,000 years.

Both sites are historically accurate "living" museums, with costumed actors portraying actual historical figures. You'll find plenty of places to stop for lunch along Plymouth’s main drag, such as  KKatie’s Burger Bar .

How to get to Plymouth from Boston:  MBTA commuter trains travel from South Station in Boston.

5. Admire the architecture in Providence

Providence , the capital of Rhode Island , is like Boston’s smaller sibling, with attractive walkable neighborhoods, elegant 18th-century architecture , dynamic and artsy student populations , and its own leafy Ivy League campus .

There's a lot going on here food-wise as well, some of it due to the presence of a world-class culinary school (Johnson & Wale), which means there’s a good meal just around the corner. Try Julian’s for lunch or brunch. On summer nights, the riverside Waterplace Park comes alive with street performers, art vendors, food trucks and dancing flames at  WaterFire , a non-profit arts organization.

How to get to Providence from Boston: MBTA commuter trains run from South Station to Providence. Amtrak trains are more expensive and slightly quicker.

6. Head to Cape Ann for seafood, beaches and whale watching

Travel time: 1 hour by car, 2 hours 30 minutes by public transportation

Welcome to "the other Cape," located along the North Shore of Massachusetts. The heart and soul of Cape Ann is Gloucester, a gritty fishing town with a thriving art colony at Rocky Neck and whale-watching cruises out to Stellwagen Bank .

Gloucester’s quaint, touristy counterpart is Rockport, with Motif No 1 on full display and souvenir shops lined up along Bearskin Neck. The rest of Cape Ann is a patchwork of beautiful coastal beaches and interior walking trails. Get your seafood fix at Causeway Restaurant in Gloucester or Roy Moore Lobster Co in Rockport.

How to get to Cape Ann from Boston: The MBTA commuter rail runs from North Station to both Gloucester and Rockport. The Cape Ann Transportation Authority operates five bus routes to beaches and villages around Cape Ann.

7. Swim, hike and explore at Boston Harbor Islands

Travel time: 50 minutes

Some 34 islands are scattered about Boston Harbor, comprising a unique state park that’s an easy jaunt from the city. Take your pick from Georges Island , site of Civil War-era Fort Warren, or Spectacle Island , with a supervised swimming beach and a rewarding lookout.

You can go farther afield to more remote islands that offer trail walking, bird-watching, fishing and swimming. Both Georges and Spectacle have good snack shacks, but there is no food or water on the outer islands. Packing a picnic is recommended.

How to get to Boston Harbor Islands from Boston: Boston Harbor Cruises offers seasonal ferry service from Long Wharf to Georges and Spectacle Islands, where another boat service runs to the outer islands.

8. Escape commercialism at Martha's Vineyard

Travel time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Bathed in unique beauty, Martha's Vineyard attracts wide-eyed day-trippers, celebrity second-home owners and urbanites seeking a restful getaway. The 15,000 year-round residents include many artists, musicians and back-to-nature types.

Just 7 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard remains untouched by the kind of rampant commercialism found on the mainland – there's not a single chain restaurant or cookie-cutter motel in sight. Instead you'll find cozy inns, chef-driven restaurants and a bounty of green farms and grand beaches. Enjoy fine dining in gentrified Edgartown or hit the cotton candy and carousel scene in Oak Bluffs.

How to get to Martha's Vineyard from Boston: It's about a 90-minute drive from Boston to Woods Hole. From there, the car ferry to Martha's Vineyard takes around 45 minutes.

This article was first published August 2019 and updated May 2023

Explore related stories

Mar 1, 2024 • 6 min read

Here’s what to do in winter in each of Boston’s 23 ‘hoods — and in the city’s centerpiece Boston Harbor

Jan 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 25, 2024 • 10 min read

Jan 22, 2024 • 12 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Sep 16, 2023 • 12 min read

Sep 12, 2023 • 9 min read

Jun 12, 2023 • 7 min read

Jun 7, 2023 • 7 min read

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Boston

Day trips from boston.

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

1. Martha's Vineyard Daytrip from Boston with Round-Trip Ferry & Island Tour Option

2. The Small Group Boston Tour, I know secrets that others don't!

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

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

5. Boston to Kennebunkport with Optional Lobster Tour

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

7. Boston Lexington and Concord Revolutionary War full day tour

8. New York City Day Trip from Boston

9. Boston and Cambridge Private Day Tour

10. Tour of Boston and Quincy: History and Fun

11. Plymouth and South Shore Full Day Private Tour

12. Salem and North Shore Full Day Private Tour

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

14. Private Tour of Lexington, Concord, and Boston

15. Boston Cambridge Lexington and Concord Private Day Tour

16. Full-Day Tour from Boston with Lost River and Flume Gorge

17. Boston Day Tour by Ferry: Salem Witch Trials Past to Present

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

19. Private Day Trip to Lexington and Concord from Boston

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

21. Ultimate Boston Audio Tour Bundle

22. Boston Walk Through History Private & All-Inclusive Tour

23. 1-Day Tour to Portland-Maine from Boston

24. Full Day Boston City Tour

25. Private Day Tour of Highlights and History in Salem and Boston

26. Lexington and Concord 5 Hour Private Driving Day Tour

27. Boston Freedom trail to Harvard Square 5 Hour Driving Tour

28. Boston Food and History Private Tour

29. Private Tour of Boston & Cambridge

30. Visit Historic Concord on a Private Day Trip from Boston

What travelers are saying.

• Martha's Vineyard Daytrip from Boston with Round-Trip Ferry & Island Tour Option
• Boston to Plymouth Day-Trip including Quincy, Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II
• The Small Group Boston Tour, I know secrets that others don't!
• Tour of Boston and Quincy: History and Fun
• Private Tour of Lexington, Concord, and Boston
• Intrepid Urban Adventures - Boston
• Walk & Talk Boston Walking Tours
• Trailblazer Tours Boston - Private Tours
• Boston Private Tours - Day Tours
• Boston Sightseeing Tours
• Live Like A Local Tours
• USA Guided Tours Boston

35+ Amazing Day Trips From Boston Massachusetts

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Day Trips From Boston

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

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

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

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

1. Bristol Rhode Island (1:10 Drive)

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

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

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

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

2. Cambridge Massachusetts (5 minute drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Cape Elizabeth Maine (2 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

3. Charlestown Massachusetts (5 minute drive)

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

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

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

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

4. Chatham Massachusetts

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Concord Massachusetts (35 Minute Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Concord New Hampshire (1:10 Drive)

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

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

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

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

7. Essex Connecticut (2 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

8. Exeter New Hampshire (1 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

9. Hanover New Hampshire (2 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Hartford Connecticut (1:35 Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Keene New Hampshire

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

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

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

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

12. Kennebunkport Maine (1.5 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Kittery Maine (1 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

14. Lenox Massachusetts (2 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

15. Lexington (30 Minute Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

16. Madison Connecticut (2 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

17. Manchester New Hampshire (1 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

18. Mystic Connecticut (2 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

19. Newburyport Massachusetts (1 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

20. Newport Rhode Island (1.5 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. Old Sturbridge Village Massachusetts (1 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

22. Ogunquit Maine (1:30 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

23. Northampton (2 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. Plymouth (45 minutes)

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. Portland Maine (1:45 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. Portsmouth New Hampshire (1 Hour + Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28. Providence Rhode Island (1 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ: 1 Day Itinerary For Providence

29. Provincetown Massachusetts (2 Hour Drive Or Ferry)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

30. Rockport Massachusetts (55 Minute Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

32. Salem Massachusetts (45 Minute Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to buy ferry tickets to Salem.

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

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

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

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

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

34. Stockbridge Massachusetts (2 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

36. Worcester (1 Hour Drive)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I would love a lobster roll right now!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

Last Updated on July 4, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Adventures in New England

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

19 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston

If you are planning a road trip from southern New England, Boston can be a perfect base as it is centrally located. You can get a hotel and then take many great day trips from Boston to experience the best that this area has to offer.

You will want to start by taking a few days to experience New England’s largest city’s feel. You can read my guide for One Day in Boston with Kids (still a good overview even for adults). Also, be sure to check out my list of hikes right around Boston .

Table of Contents

Short Day Trips from Boston

These day trips from Boston are around an hour’s drive from Boston.

Salem, Massachusetts

Witch City, USA, also has a fantastic art museum and Hawthorne’s House of the Seven Gables. Read on for how to spend a day in Salem. 

Fall River and New Bedford, Massachusetts

This center of fishing life in colonial New England is now predominately Portuguese. You can visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum, the church that was part of Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick inspiration, and the Lizzie Bordon House.  Read more about the area in Haunted New England.

Rockport, Massachusetts

Spend a day exploring this picture-perfect fishing village on the coast north of Boston.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

There is a lot to explore on this peninsula south of Boston, but you can explore the upper Cape in one day from Boston. Most of my exploration of the Cape has been by bicycle.

Portland, Maine

This foodie town also has lighthouses and parks to explore. Check out 47 Cool Things to Do in Portland, Maine.

Providence, Rhode Island

The capital of Rhode Island has canals to stroll along, great restaurants, and art museums. Read on for The Best Things to Do in Providence.

Newport, Rhode Island

This colonial town on Aquidneck Island has excellent beaches, hiking, dining, and a lot of history. Explore A Local’s Guide to Newport.

Sutton, Massachusetts

Hike this trail along the base of the 75-foot rock Purgatory Chasm and get ice cream at the farm next door. Read more about a day at Purgatory Chasm.

Concord, Massachusetts

Concord was not only an important location in the American Revolution but also in American Literature. Walden Pond sits in Concord, as well as Louisa May Walcott’s home. Read my itinerary for one day in Concord, Massachusetts.

Plymouth, Massachusetts

Visit the recreation of the Native American and pilgrim colony following the landing at Plymouth Rock.

New Bedford, Massachusetts

Explore the colonial whaling capital of the world, located on the southern coast of Massachusetts. This area also has a large Portuguese population, a fort, and was a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Read about how to spend a day in New Bedford. 

Whole Day Trips from Boston

It will take about 2 hours to get to these full-day trips from Boston.

Martha’s Vineyard

Sand dunes, farms, Kennedy history, and gingerbread cottages, this island off the coast of Massachusetts will introduce you to the best New England has to offer. Read on for Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard .

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is sometimes known as the quintessential New England town. It is nestled in Vermont’s Green Mountains and alive with the state’s art culture. Plan your day with Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont.

Northampton, Massachusetts

This arty town in northwest Massachusetts is the home of Smith College. Read on for how to spend a day in Northampton.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

One of the most transcendent concerts you can experience will take place at Tanglewood in the rural mountains of western Massachusett. The Berkshires give ample opportunities for hiking, leaf-peeping, and exploring small New England towns.

New Hampshire’s White Mountains

Take a foliage drive or go waterfall hunting through the White Mountains.

Mystic, Connecticut

Explore the seaport at this colonial town on the Mystic River. Investigate more things to do in Mystic.

Mount Major, New Hampshire

The views from the peak of this half-day hike are incredible. You will see New Hampshire’s lakes and highest peak, Mount Washington, in the distance. Learn more about climbing Mount Major.

Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts

This village nestled in the Berkshire Mountains has the Bridge of Flowers, a waterfall, glacial potholes and an art-filled downtown. Read about how to spend a full day in Shelburne Falls.

Which day trips around Boston have you taken? Which are the highest on your list? Please let me know if you have any questions in the comments.

Sharing is caring!

12 thoughts on “19 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

You may also like to read

What to Do in Ogunquit, Maine

2 of the Scariest Places in Massachusetts

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

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

Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont

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

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

Join my community

Subscribe to my newsletter to get updates!

Home > United States > One Week in Boston: Itinerary for 7 Days in Boston

One Week in Boston: Itinerary for 7 Days in Boston

By Dymphe / May 8, 2022

Spending one week in Boston is incredible as there are so many things to do and to see in the city. If you are 7 days in Boston, you have the most amazing experience in the city!

You can find Boston in the state of Massachusetts in the United States . It's a city with a lot of history, great sights, and more.

Some of the most interesting things to see in the city are the Freedom Trail and Harvard University. Also, the Massachusetts State House is very interesting. Besides that, Downtown Boston is a very nice place and there are many great places for shopping in the city as well.

Also, there are beautiful parks and interesting museums. Furthermore, you can find here Fenway Park. This is the home stadium for the Boston Red Sox baseball team.

So there are definitely enough reasons to visit this city. And if you spend one week in Boston, you can see it all!

I made this itinerary to make sure you make the most out of your time and you can see all highlights. This will help you to have the best experience when you are 7 days in Boston.

Table of Contents

Getting to Boston

There are many ways to get to the city when you want to spend one week in Boston!

One of the best ways to reach the city when you are coming from a place that is far away is by airplane.

In Boston, you find the Boston Logan International Airport in the city.

You can fly to the city from many places in the United States and other countries in the world.

Another way to reach the city of Boston is by train.

You can get to the city by train from many other places in the United States that you can find nearby.

For example, you can visit Boston from New York City, Washington DC, Baltimore, and other places. For these cities, the train is a very convenient way to get to the city when you want to spend 7 days in Boston. That's because it is fast!

Also, it is possible to reach the city of Boston by bus. For example, Greyhound has bus routes from several places in the United States to Boston.

And you can also reach the city of Boston by car, of course!

Where to Stay During One Week in Boston

You find a lot of this itinerary's sights in the city center of Boston.

That's why staying in Downtown Boston is a great place when you are one week in Boston.

Downtown Boston is rather large, so you have a lot of choices in the places you can stay at!

Itinerary for One Week in Boston

Let's start with this itinerary for 7 days in Boston!

Day 1: Get an Overview of the City and Learn About History

During this first day, you'll visit Downtown Boston and learn about its history. Furthermore, you'll see some interesting and beautiful places. For example, you'll visit the Rose Kennedy Greenway.

Walk Through Downtown Boston

The best way to start your one week in Boston is by going to Downtown Boston.

Going here gives you a great first impression of the city. And you can experience the atmosphere of Boston at this place.

What's great is that you can find some of the most important historic buildings in downtown.

Also, there are lots of stores and restaurants in this part of the city. This makes that there is a lot of activity here! And there is a lot to do and see, which is great!

Walk the Freedom Trail

One of the best places in Downtown Boston is the Freedom Trail .

The Freedom Trail is a path that you can find in Downtown Boston. It is a very interesting place to visit when you are 7 days in Boston.

Next to it, you find 16 different landmarks that played a large role in the history of the country.

The trail starts at Boston Common and goes all the way to the Bunker Hill Monument.

Walking only a part of it is great to do when you are one week in Boston! Also, you could consider doing a walking tour when you are here.

There are many walking tours that cover the Freedom Trail. This allows you to learn even more about the place.

Have Lunch at the Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Another great place in Downtown Boston is the Faneuil Hall Marketplace .

This is a marketplace that you can find in Downtown Boston as well.

You find here a lot of different shops, which makes it great for shopping.

Also, you find here a lot of venues where you can have great food.

This makes it the perfect place to have lunch on your first day!

See the Old State House

After having lunch, I recommend going to the Old State House.

This is a historic building. In fact, it is one of the oldest public buildings in the country. That's why it is worth seeing when you are 7 days in Boston.

And it is also one of the buildings that are part of the Freedom Trail.

In the past, this was where you could find the state legislature of Massachusetts.

It is a great building to see. This is also because the historic building sits next to the modern buildings of the city, which is unique to see! Compared to the tall skyscrapers, the building looks very small.

Nowadays, you find a history museum inside the building. You find here interesting objects and there are interesting exhibitions.

What's great is that you can go to this museum every day of the year, except during holidays.

See the Paul Revere House

After seeing the Old State House, you should definitely see another old building.

This is the Paul Revere House . It's a must-see when you are one week in Boston!

This was the home of Paul Revere during the American Revolution.

Paul Revere was a silversmith and Patriot in the American Revolution. Moreover, he is famous for the Midnight Ride.

This was an alert given to the military of the American colonies to signal the arrival of the British in 1775.

The house is also one of the landmarks of the Freedom Trail and it is great to see!

The building is very old, and the architecture stands out a lot. In fact, it is the oldest house in Downtown Boston.

Keep in mind that if you want to enter the house, you have to pay an admission fee. But it's worth it when you are spending 7 days in Boston.

Walk the Rose Kennedy Greenway

Now it's time to explore some of the city's nature.

A beautiful park that you can find in Downtown Boston is the Rose Kennedy Greenway .

It is a linear park that spans several of the city's neighborhoods.

You find here beautiful gardens, fountains, and walking areas. This makes going here for a relaxing walk a great experience!

The different sections of the park are great to visit. But when you follow this itinerary, you don't have time to go to every part of the park.

But covering only one section of the park is wonderful!

Day 2: A Fun Day During Your One Week in Boston During Which You Learn and Shop

On this second day of your 7 days in Boston, you're going to the city's library. And in the afternoon, you'll have a great time shopping.

Visit the Boston Public Library

On the second day of your one week in Boston, you should definitely go to the Boston Public Library.

This is the municipal library of the city of Boston and it is a very historic building.

You find here a huge number of books. In total, there are almost 25 million volumes. This makes it one of the largest libraries in the United States.

The building has a very impressive architectural style.

It looks very classical from the outside and you can see a lot of arches that are great!

The inside of the public library is also incredible to see. The halls feature a lot of decorations and large arches, which is great as well!

Go Shopping at the Prudential Center

After seeing the Boston Public Library, I recommend going shopping in the afternoon.

The best place for that is the Prudential Center.

This is a shopping hall where you can find a large number of stores.

The anchor store of the mall is Saks Fifth Avenue, which is a luxury store chain.

Furthermore, you find a very large store of Barnes & Noble here. And there are many other shops.

In total, you find about 75 shops and other venues here.

What's great is that you also find a lot of places with food at the mall. This makes your experience here even better!

Shop at Newbury Street

Did you go shopping in the afternoon, but do you still want to shop more? Then, you can go to Newbury Street.

This is a large shopping street in Boston where you also find many stores.

You find a lot of boutique shops on this street. Also, there are many designer brand stores on this street from all over the world.

What's great is that you can find Newbury Street close to the Prudential Center. This makes a visit to both easy to do during this afternoon.

Day 3: Discover Harvard University When You’re 7 Days in Boston

During this day, you'll visit a very interesting and famous university near the city of Boston.

See the Campus of Harvard University

You can find one of the most famous universities in the world near Boston.

This is Harvard University.

You can find the university to the west of Boston in the city of Cambridge. This city is in the metropolitan area of Boston, which makes going here easy to do.

When you are one week in Boston, you should definitely visit this place, because it is so famous.

The campus of Harvard University is a beautiful place.

You find here a lot of historic buildings that are amazing to see.

What's great is that you can do a tour of the campus.

During a campus tour, you can learn more about the campus and the university, which is great!

Visit Harvard Square

When you are at Harvard University, you should definitely go to Harvard Square. Harvard Square is a must when going to spend 7 days in Boston.

This is a wonderful place where you can see a lot of stores that are great to see.

For example, you find here the Harvard Book Store. This is an independent bookstore that is great to visit.

Also, you find The Brattle Theatre at Harvard Square. This is a small movie theater that is great if you want to see a movie. Here you can see classic, foreign-language, and independent movies.

The building is very picturesque, which makes going here a lot of fun!

Also, you find some bars and restaurants at Harvard Square that are great to visit as well.

Go to the Harvard Museum of Natural History

Another one of the best activities you can do today is going to the Harvard Museum of Natural History .

When you are one week in Boston, you should definitely visit this place! And it is a great way to end your afternoon when you are going to Harvard this day.

This museum is all about natural history, which is awesome!

You find here a lot of specimens from three different research institutes of Harvard.

For example, you can learn here about dinosaurs through the skeletons you find here.

Also, it is a great place to learn about gems and meteorites.

And there are many fossils.

But there is so much more to see at the museum.

Day 4: Learn About Science and History

On this 4th day of your 7 days in Boston, you'll visit two interesting museums and you'll learn about history.

Go to the Museum of Science

Start at the Museum of Science ! This is a very interesting place to visit when you are spending one week in Boston.

The museum is all about science.

The collection is very large and has a lot of different exhibits.

What's great is that most of these exhibits are interactive. This makes learning about science a very fun activity!

What's great as well is that you find a lot of live presentations at many places at this museum.

Furthermore, you can see here different places where you can see films. For example, you find here a planetarium, which is great!

Also, there are many events at the museum. These events include lectures, films, and more. This makes the place even better to visit during this day!

Visit Bunker Hill Monument

After going to the Computer History Museum, you should visit Bunker Hill Monument!

This is a monument that is also one of the landmarks of the Freedom Trail.

It is a monument for the Battle of Bunker Hill during the Revolutionary War. This battle was one of the first battles that took place between the British and the Patriots.

The history that is behind the monument is great to learn about.

Besides that, the monument itself is very impressive to see.

It is a large stone obelisk that you can see from a distance.

If you want to reach the top of the monument, you can do so too, which is great.

From the top of Bunker Hill Monument, you have a beautiful view of the city of Boston.

Go to the USS Constitution Museum

After seeing Bunker Hill Monument, I recommend going to the USS Constitution Museum . This is an interesting museum for your 7 days in Boston.

This is a very interesting museum that is part of Boston National Historical Park.

You can find the museum in the Charlestown Navy Yard. This was one of the oldest places for shipbuilding.

The collection of the museum is very interesting. You find here a lot of interesting objects and there are many interactive exhibits.

All these exhibits relate to the United States Navy.

Day 5: A Day During Your 7 Days in Boston With Beautiful Places and Art

On this day, you'll go to a very important place in the city of Boston. Furthermore, you'll visit two gardens that are beautiful. And you'll visit one of the best art museums in the city.

See the Massachusetts State House

To start your day, I recommend going to the Massachusetts State House.

This is the place where you can find the government of the state of Massachusetts.

That's why this is a very interesting place to see for your one week in Boston.

Moreover, the architecture of the statehouse is great to see! This makes going to the place worthwhile.

If you want to learn more about the building and the state of Massachusetts, you can do so too here!

A great way to do that is through a public tour of the building.

These tours take place every weekday and during every part of the year. The tours are free to attend and are a great way to get inside the building.

Keep in mind, that you need to reserve for the tour beforehand.

Walk Through Boston Common and the Public Garden

After learning about the state and the statehouse, you should go to Boston Common!

This is a public park that you can find in the city center of Boston, close to the statehouse.

What's amazing is that it is the oldest park in the United States. This makes going here great during your 7 days in Boston!

Also, you find a lot of beautiful nature at the park that makes going here a very relaxing activity!

At the park, you can see many trees and park, which is great! Also, next to nature you can see the buildings of the city of Boston. This sharp contrast is wonderful!

Next to Boston Common, you find the Boston Public Garden.

This is also a beautiful place to visit where you can see beautiful plants, trees, and flowers. And there are walking paths, which makes walking around here easy.

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

After you explored some of the most beautiful parks in the city, it's time to see some art.

One of the best places for art in the city of Boston is the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston .

This is one of the largest art museums in the world and you find here almost 500,000 art pieces.

In total, you find here more than 8,000 paintings.

The only museum in the United States that has more paintings is the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

The collection of the museum is very varied. You find here objects from all over the world and from a lot of periods in time.

For example, you find here objects from Ancient Egypt, but you can also find here contemporary art.

Some of the artists whose work is on display at this museum are Warhol, Van Gogh, and Monet.

This museum is one of the most interesting places you'll visit during 7 days in Boston for sure!

Day 6: See Art and Learn about John F. Kennedy

Contemporary art and John F. Kennedy. That's what this sixth day of your one week in Boston is all about! It's going to be an amazing day for sure.

Visit The Institute of Contemporary Art

Let's start this day by seeing even more art in the city of Boston.

There are so many great places with art that are worth visiting when you are in the city.

Another one of the best museums is the Institute of Contemporary Art .

This is an art museum that is all about contemporary art.

You find a lot of changing exhibitions at the museum, which is great.

This means that there can be something else every time you visit the city of Boston!

Visit the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

After seeing the Institute of Contemporary Art, you should see more interesting things! The JFK Kennedy Presidential Library is great for that!

Here you find a lot of exhibits that relate to President John F. Kennedy.

When you visit the museum, you'll start by seeing a film that has narration by Kennedy.

After that, you can see the exhibits of the museum.

These exhibits are very interesting and include a lot of things that relate to the Kennedy.

For example, you find here an exhibit about the Space Race.

Also, you can see an exhibit about the campaign of Kennedy.

Walk at UMass Harborwalk Park

After going to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum , let's end at a relaxing place.

Close to the last stop, you can find UMass Harborwalk Park.

This is a park next to the water that is perfect for a stroll! It's one of the most relaxing things to do in this itinerary for one week in Boston.

Day 7: Ending the 7 Days in Boston With Art, Nature, and Baseball

Start with an interesting museum and a beautiful place with nature. After that, you'll have a lot of fun seeing a baseball game!

Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

On the last day of your 7 days in Boston, you should go to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum .

This another lovely art museum that you can find in the city of Boston.

You find here a collection of many different types of art.

For example, you find here paintings, decorative arts, sculptures, and more types of art.

What's great is that these objects from all over the world.

For example, you find here objects from the Roman Empire, Asia, and Medieval Europe.

You find here art from a lot of notable artists. Some of them are Rembrandt, Botticelli, Titian, and Michelangelo.

What's great as well is that there are changing exhibitions at the museum.

These exhibitions focus on a particular part of the collection, which allows you to learn more!

Go to the Fenway Victory Gardens

After going to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, go to the Fenway Victory Gardens !

You find here a lot of beautiful nature.

In the past, this place started as a vegetable garden. The local population of Boson planted vegetables here because of food shortages. This was during World War II.

Nowadays, you find here a lot of flowers, but there are still some vegetables and fruits. For example, there are strawberries, eggplants, and tomatoes.

This makes the place great to visit when you are one week in Boston!

Attend a Game of the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park

Another one of the best things to do when you are in the city is to go to Fenway Park to see a game.

That's because you can find the Boston Red Sox baseball team at Fenway Park. Especially if you like sports, this is amazing.

This is a great baseball team that competes in Major League Baseball.

Going to a baseball game is a wonderful way to end your 7 days in Boston!

Save this post to Pinterest if you like it!

Blog comments (0)

Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Irish firefighter visiting Boston for St. Patrick’s Day charged with raping woman in downtown hotel

A firefighter visiting Boston from Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day weekend was pulled off an airplane by State Police Saturday as he tried to flee the city after allegedly raping a woman at a downtown hotel, officials said.

Terrence Crosbie, 37, was charged with rape in the central division of Boston Municipal Court on Monday and ordered held on $100,000 bail, Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden’s office said in a statement.

Crosbie, a member of the Dublin Fire Brigade, was ordered to surrender his passport and not leave Massachusetts if he posts bail. He is due back in court April 16. It was not clear whether Crosbie had retained an attorney to represent him.

Advertisement

Crosbie, who lives in Dublin, boarded a plane to Ireland on Saturday night after he was interviewed by investigators, but State Police stopped the plane on the tarmac at Logan International Airport and took him into custody, prosecutors said.

His accuser, a 28-year-old woman, told police in an interview at Massachusetts General Hospital on Friday that she had been assaulted earlier that day at the Omni Parker House, prosecutors said. Investigators obtained security video from the hotel and The Black Rose, a pub by Faneuil Hall where Crosbie and the woman had both been on Thursday night.

“As always in these matters, the willingness of the victim to come forward is crucial. This victim deserves enormous credit for doing that in this case,” Hayden said in a statement. “I’m grateful for the alertness of police in finding out that Mr. Crosbie was attempting to leave the country before he could be held accountable for his actions.”

Authorities said Crosbie flew from Ireland to Boston with other members of the fire brigade on Thursday and was scheduled to return Tuesday. After his interview with police, Crosbie booked a flight for 10:10 p.m. on Saturday but boarded an earlier flight at about 7 p.m., prosecutors said.

The Dublin Fire Brigade has placed Crosbie on leave and is conducting an internal investigation, a spokesperson said Tuesday.

“We cannot comment on the specific circumstances but we would reiterate the high standards that we expect from all who represent our organisation at any event,” the agency said in a statement.

Authorities urged anyone who has been the victim of a crime, including domestic and sexual violence, to call 911. SafeLink, a statewide domestic violence hotline, can be reached at 877-785-2020 and is answered by trained advocates 24 hours a day in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, as well as TTY at 877-521-2601. The service also has the capacity to provide multilingual translation in more than 140 languages, Hayden’s office said.

Authorities said help is also available for members of the LGBTQ+ community experiencing domestic or intimate partner violence through The Network/La Red by calling 617-742-4911 or 800-832-1901.

Nick Stoico can be reached at [email protected] .