10 Best Day Trips from Boston – Explore Coastal, Historic & Nature Escapes
March 22, 2025
Looking for the best day trips from Boston? Whether you’re craving coastal views, historical sites, or outdoor adventures, Boston offers easy access to some of New England’s most stunning destinations. From the charming streets of Salem to the scenic beauty of White Mountains, there’s something for every traveler. Here’s a detailed guide to the best day trips from Boston with travel tips and must-see spots.
A Boston to Cape Cod day trip is perfect for those seeking sun, sand, and seafood. The region is home to pristine beaches, picturesque lighthouses, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Must-See Spots: Nauset Light Beach, Provincetown, and Cape Cod National Seashore
Activities: Whale watching, kayaking, and biking on the Cape Cod Rail Trail
Travel Tip: The ferry ride from Boston to Provincetown offers a scenic and relaxing journey
A Boston to Newport day trip is an excellent choice for those who love coastal beauty combined with rich history. This Rhode Island gem is known for its Gilded Age mansions and breathtaking ocean views.
Must-See Spots: The Breakers Mansion, Cliff Walk, and Bowen’s Wharf
Activities: Mansion tours, sailing, and dining at waterfront restaurants
Travel Tip: Take a sunset cruise to experience Newport’s charm from the water
A Boston to Martha’s Vineyard day trip offers a perfect escape from city life. This island getaway is famous for its stunning beaches, charming villages, and relaxed atmosphere.
Must-See Spots: Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and South Beach
Activities: Beach lounging, lighthouse tours, and boutique shopping
Travel Tip: Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during summer weekends
Boston to Portland Maine Day Trip
A Boston to Portland Maine day trip is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of coastal charm and vibrant city life. Portland is renowned for its seafood, historic lighthouses, and artsy vibe.
Must-See Spots: Portland Head Light, Old Port, and Casco Bay
Travel Tip: Try a food tour to experience the city’s culinary scene
Best Historical & Cultural Day Trips from Boston
Boston to Salem Day Trip
A Boston to Salem day trip is a must for history lovers, particularly those fascinated by the infamous witch trials. Salem’s rich colonial past and spooky legends make it a unique destination.
Must-See Spots: Salem Witch Museum, House of the Seven Gables, and Pickering Wharf
Activities: Walking tours, haunted experiences, and exploring maritime history
Travel Tip: October is the best time to visit for Halloween-themed events
Boston to Plymouth Day Trip
A Boston to Plymouth day trip is ideal for those interested in America’s early colonial history. This historic town is home to iconic landmarks that tell the story of the Pilgrims’ arrival.
Must-See Spots: Plymouth Rock, Mayflower II, and Plimoth Patuxet Museums
Activities: Historical reenactments, guided tours, and exploring Native American history
Travel Tip: Visit during Thanksgiving for special historical events
Boston to Lexington and Concord Day Trip
A Boston to Lexington and Concord day trip offers a deep dive into America’s Revolutionary War history. These towns played a crucial role in the fight for independence.
Must-See Spots: Minute Man National Park, North Bridge, and Walden Pond
Travel Tip: Spring and fall provide the best weather for outdoor explorations
Boston to Providence Day Trip
A Boston to Providence day trip combines art, culture, and history in Rhode Island’s capital. The city boasts a thriving arts scene and a rich culinary heritage.
Must-See Spots: WaterFire Providence, RISD Museum, and Federal Hill
Activities: Enjoying art exhibits, sampling Italian cuisine, and experiencing unique night festivals
Travel Tip: Plan your visit around a WaterFire event for a mesmerizing experience
Best Nature & Adventure Day Trips from Boston
Boston to White Mountains Day Trip
A Boston to White Mountains day trip is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore breathtaking landscapes. This destination offers some of the best hiking trails in New England.
Must-See Spots: Kancamagus Highway, Franconia Notch State Park, and Mount Washington
Activities: Hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife spotting
Travel Tip: Pack layers, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly
Boston to Berkshires Day Trip
A Boston to Berkshires day trip offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. Known for its rolling hills and thriving arts scene, the Berkshires provide a peaceful retreat from city life.
Must-See Spots: Norman Rockwell Museum, Tanglewood, and Mount Greylock
Activities: Exploring art galleries, hiking, and attending seasonal festivals
Travel Tip: Visit in the fall for the most stunning foliage views
How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip from Boston
Best Travel Methods: Depending on the destination, you can drive, take a train, hop on a bus, or catch a ferry
Optimal Travel Seasons: Spring and fall offer the best weather and fewer crowds
Budget-Friendly Tips: Booking transportation in advance and looking for free attractions can help save money
Conclusion
Exploring day trips from Boston opens up a world of diverse experiences, from historical landmarks and coastal escapes to scenic outdoor adventures. Whether venturing to Salem, Cape Cod, the Berkshires, or White Mountains, each trip offers something unique. Pack your bags, choose a destination, and embark on an unforgettable journey beyond Boston.
Linda Lucero is a travel blogger from the US. She loves to meet new people and explore new cultures, as well as try delicious foods. Linda’s blog is full of her adventures around the world! In her spare time, she likes reading books about other cultures and how they might be different from what she knows in the United States.
