The 23 Most Scenic Day Trips from Boston, MA in 2024
Are you planning a visit to Boston and want to explore neighboring towns? Do you need help figuring out where to start? Great news—I’ve spent extensive time visiting areas around Boston and neighboring states, so I’m thrilled to help you plan your next great adventure. Follow along as I guide you through the best day trips from Boston, MA.
Although I’ve lived my entire life in the South, I have been fortunate to spend a lot of time exploring New England. It all started with a family trip in high school, where we stayed in Boston for one week and went on a new adventure every day.
We explored communities close to Boston and into neighboring states such as Maine, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Over the years, I’ve continued exploring new communities within a day trip from Boston.
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Boston, MA
Boston is a beautiful city to explore, with a rich history, delicious food, scenery, and cultural events. As a US history teacher, it is one of my absolute favorite towns to visit, and I’ve been lucky to see it in summer, fall, and winter!
The Boston area is an excellent hub for seeing New England as numerous towns are just a short drive away, and you can use public transportation for several of my suggestions.
Best Day trips from Boston by Car
Massachusetts is smaller than many states, so small day trips allow you to see much more of the state. You can easily access beautiful beaches, coastal towns, or historical sites!
Day Trips in Massachusetts
1. Lexington
Directions: 14 miles
For the ultimate history buff, you must add Lexington to your trip. It is the site of the famous phrase, “the shot heard around the world.” Here, you can learn the details of what led to the start of the American Revolution as British soldiers fired on colonists in Lexington Green.
2. Concord
Directions: 20 miles
If Lexington is on your list, consider adding Concord, as it is just as crucial in the story of the start of the Revolution. Start your visit with a stop at Minute Man National Historical Park, where you can participate in guided lessons, walk the famous battle path, or explore independently.
Beyond its connection to the Revolution, Concord is rich in other historical sites, especially literature-related ones. Fans of Little Women can tour Louisa May Alcott’s home, the Orchard House. My sisters and I were fortunate to visit together as we loved this story as little girls.
If you enjoy visiting unique spots, head to Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where you can visit the gravesites of numerous famous American authors, including Alcott, Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Nathaniel Hawthorne. Check out Walden Pond, the serene lake that inspired many of Henry David Thoreau’s writings during the Transcendentalism Era of American Literature.
Lastly, take advantage of the opportunity to browse local shops in the quaint downtown area. My aunt has sent my children the best kids’ books from the Concord Bookshop for years. You must stop by!
3. Salem
Directions: 16 miles
Since we are on a history kick, let’s add the spooky town of Salem. In the 1690’s1690s, this town made history with its infamous Salem Witch Trials, when young girls started accusing community members of witchcraft.
Visitors can learn more about this scary phase by visiting the Salem Witch Museum, taking tours, and experiencing reenactments. Salem embraced its history to draw in visitors, so there’s plenty to see and do regarding the Witch Trials. We participated in a reenactment during my first visit to Salem. If you are in town for Halloween, check out its massive party.
If that doesn’t interest you, don’t worry—there’s still so much to see! My husband and I enjoyed a trolley tour, learning about Salem’s history during one beautiful summer trip. You can also tour the Peabody Essex Museum or the House of the Seven Gables, the home of literary genius Nathanial Hawthorne.
4. Marblehead
Directions: 16 miles
I suggest combining a visit to Salem with an afternoon stop in Marblehead, as it’s only 15 minutes away. Marblehead is one of the most scenic coastal towns, offering beautiful ocean views, and is known for its abundance of historic homes dating from the 1600s to the 1700s.
I suggest parking downtown, browsing the shops in the quaint buildings, and grabbing some fresh seafood. In the summer months, you can take a scenic boat tour of the harbor.
5. Newburyport
Directions: 39 miles
Just a short drive north out of town, you’ll discover a charming coastal town known as Newburyport. Here, you’ll explore local stores and restaurants in beautiful brick buildings with cobblestone roads. You can enjoy boating, kayaking, a whale-watching tour, or a lazy afternoon at Plum Island Beach in the summer. I visited one Christmas season, and it was magical.
6. Gloucester
Directions: 36 miles
Northeast of Boston lies Gloucester, a town with a rich history and numerous outdoor activities. For instance, Gloucester boasts beautiful beaches, whale-watching opportunities, and numerous lighthouses. It also has a rich maritime history, cultural activities, and festivals.
Tip: You can combine a trip to Salem or Marblehead with Gloucester.
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7. Plymouth
Directions: 41 miles
Plymouth is another great spot full of rich history. It is home to the Pilgrims, one of the first groups to settle in British North America. You can visit the iconic (although small) Plymouth Rock. Plimoth Patuxet Museums is another great idea if you want to see firsthand how the settlers and Indigenous people lived in the early 1600s. It is a combination of several historical sites.
8. Chatham
Directions: 87 miles
Don’t be intimidated by the drive to the Cape. Chatham is my favorite community in the Cape. My husband and I recently had a lovely vacation there, and we used it as our base to explore the region.
My highlights include checking out the beautiful beaches and lighthouses, watching the seals at the Chatham Fish Pier, walking and shopping downtown, and eating fresh seafood. If you visit in the summer, make sure to catch a baseball game in the Cape Cod Summer League; it was one of our favorite moments.
I suggest waking up early and driving straight to Chatham for a late brunch or lunch. Shop and explore, and then head over to the Cape Cod National Seashore.
Pro tip: Avoid the weekends in the summer, especially a Friday afternoon, as there’s more traffic!
9. Cape Cod National Seashore
Directions: 90 miles
I’ll admit, I wasn’t very familiar with this national seashore before I visited the area, and man, I’m so glad we made time for it. There are several entry points all along the eastern side of the Cape. FYI, some points do require an entrance fee. Regardless of the season, it is worth a visit, especially to see the magnificent sandy beaches and dunes (closer to Provincetown).
10. Woods Hole
Directions: 76 miles
If you are already in Cape Cod, stop in Falmouth for Woods Hole. beyond visiting the stunning beaches, you can visit the Nobska Lighthouse, Woods Hole Aquarium, the Marine Biological Laboratory or the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.
11. Provincetown
Directions: 116 miles
Provincetown is a fun and unique community on the furthest tip of the Cape. Although you could drive, it is a bit further than Chatham. If you don’t get motion sickness, I’d recommend a high-speed ferry from Boston. This is the perfect opportunity to be on the water and see some of the Cape without the hassle of a car rental. The ferry drops you in the heart of town.
Provincetown is known for its rich history as the original landing place of the Pilgrims and its impressive collection of art galleries. In recent decades, Provincetown has become a safe haven for artists and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Lastly, the town has a strong influence of Portuguese food due to generations of migrations from Europe. Trust me—this town is worth the visit! You can also see part of the National Seashore near downtown.
12. Martha’s Vineyard
Directions: 71 miles (to Hyannis)
Martha’s Vineyard is a terrific day trip, but a little more complicated since it is an island. You will want to plan for a full day to maximize your time. You can catch a ferry from several spots inland. The only year-round ferry is operated out of New Bedford (Steamship Authority and Seatreak). You will have more options in the summer, such as leaving from Falmouth or Hyannis.
Some popular spots on the island include Joseph Sylvia State Beach, Aquinnah LightHouse, and Edgartown. You can also opt for a car ferry to have more flexibility in getting around the island.
Tip: If traveling during the high season, book ferry tickets early!
13. Nantucket
Directions: 71 miles (to Hyannis)
If you only have a day, you’ll want to maximize your time here. Biking is a popular way to see the island. Make sure to check out Brant Point Lighthouse and the Whaling Museum. If visiting in the summer, admire the vivid hydrangeas.
There are several ways to get to Nantucket. Although more time-consuming, you can drive to Hyannis and take a one-hour high-speed ferry ride to Nantucket from Hy-line Cruises. I suggest buying your ticket in advance, especially if traveling in a busy season such as summer.
There’s also a ferry (Seastreak) out of New Bedford if you don’t want to mess with traffic on the Cape. Flying out of Boston’s airport is another easy option, but much more expensive. Check out Cape Air.
Best out of State Day trips
14. Ogunquit
Directions: 77 miles
Southern Maine boasts a charming collection of seaside towns worth the day trip. My first trip to Maine was a day trip to Ogunquit, and I’ve done it several times since so I can speak from experience.
I highly recommend waking up early and driving straight to Ogunquit for brunch. Afterwards, park in Perkins Cove, browse the small shops there, and hop on Marginal Way, a scenic trail along the Atlantic Coast. When you are done, grab lobster rolls for lunch.
15. Kennebunkport
Directions: 90 miles
Kennebunkport is a short drive north of Ogunquit—park in one of the downtown public lots to access the town easily. You can walk through the local shops, eat fresh seafood, and take in a quintessential New England town. Afterwards, drive along the coast and visit St. Ann’s Seaside Chapel. For the active tourist, you can bike through town or go kayaking.
If you visit during the holiday season, check out the Christmas festivities Kennebunkport and Ogunquit offer.
Pro tip: Spend ½ a day in Ogunquit and ½ day in Kennebunkport so you can see both!
16. Old Orchard Beach
Directions: 102 miles
If traveling with kids, consider Old Orchard Beach, known for its old-fashioned orchard and amusement park right next to the beach. Remember, Palace Playland is only open in the summer months, and the arcade is open slightly longer, starting in late April.
There’s also a beautiful public beach right next to the Palace Playland.
17. Portland
Directions: 112 miles
Portland is a little further north than my other Maine suggestions, but it’s a cute town worth visiting. We’ve explored this town on numerous occasions, and it’s a great day trip.
First, make sure to check out Portland Head Light, an iconic lighthouse on the East Coast. While at the lighthouse, you can also visit Fort Williams Park and Bug Light Park on the way into town (another cute lighthouse).
I suggest parking your car downtown and exploring the Old Port by foot. Check out the cobblestone streets, head to the harbor, and grab a fresh lobster roll for lunch. HighRoller has our favorite lobster rolls in town.
If you’re traveling with kids, check out the children’s museum. Portland also offers fantastic tours to learn about the history, go kayaking, or take a sunset cruise.
18. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Directions: 62 miles
Portsmouth is a charming community just north of Boston and across the MA-New Hampshire state line. You’ll want to check out Market Square, Prescott Park, and the Portsmouth Harbor Trail.
19. White Mountains, New Hampshire
Directions: 163 miles
The White Mountains are a great destination in New England. For instance, guests can enjoy the great outdoors with a wide range of hikes, boating, biking, and fishing. There are also terrific small shops and museums. It’s truly a year-round destination. If traveling in the fall, you won’t want to miss out on the stunning fall foliage.
20. Newport, Rhode Island
Directions: 72 miles
Newport is another fantastic day trip. I’ve done it twice as a day trip from Boston and stayed here for several days. Either way, you will love it. Newport is home to an amazing collection of mansions from the Gilded Age, a period of rapid Industrialization in America that made families incredibly rich. They vacationed in Newport in the summer, and their houses displayed their great wealth.
The Breakers is the crown jewel of the collection, but there are many others worth noting, such as Marble House and Rosecliff. I recommend walking the Cliff Walk between the houses and the ocean for beautiful views.
21. Stowe, Vermont
Directions: 199 miles
This suggestion requires some effort, but it is worth it, especially in the fall season if you are looking for stunning foliage. If you share my love of The Sound of Music, you’ll want to check out the Von Trapp Family Lodge.
The area is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts—check out Smugglers Notch State Park, Moss Glen Falls, and Mount Mansfield.
22. Quechee, Vermont
Directions: 132 miles
Directions: 132 miles
Queechee is a scenic town that is a must-see! First, you’ll want to carve time for the Queechee Gorge, which you can hike to. While there, check out the Simon Pearce Mill and take in a glass-blowing demonstration. Or spend some time at the Vermont Spirits Distilling Company.
If I were you, I would make a day trip to Vermont and combine Queechee Gorge with Stowe. Trust me- I’ve done it before, and you can too!
23. Mystic Connecticut
Directions: 100 miles
If you want to knock out visiting all New England states, head south to a quaint town in Connecticut. Mystic offers an excellent aquarium, seaport museum, state parks, and the Mashantucket Pequot Museum
To highlight the history of the Indigenous people in the area. Don’t forget the famous Mystic Pizza while in town!
FAQ: Visiting Boston & Surrounding Areas
Is Cape Cod a day trip option?
You can visit the Cape for a day. However, I highly suggest you make a plan with an early departure. You won’t be able to see everything, so pick the town or two you are eager to see and focus your time there. If you don’t want to drive, consider a ferry to Provincetown or check out all my suggestions on the best routes to the Cape.
Can you visit Nantucket?
Similar to the Cape, plan on a full day. Also, book your ferry tickets in advance. It would be a shame to arrive in Hyannis and not be able to secure ferry tickets.
What are the best towns close to Boston?
My favorites are Concord, Newburyport, Marblehead, Ogunquit, and Kennebunkport, Maine.
In Conclusion: Day trips from Boston
I hope my guide to the best day trips from Boston, MA, helps you plan your next great adventure!
Cape Cod Travel Resources
Cape Cod in the Fall
Things to do in Chatham, Cape Cod
Best Breakfast in Chatham, Cape Cod
Best Beaches in Chatham
