Boston is a vibrant and historic vacation spot recognized for its colonial structure, prestigious universities, and seafood delicacies. However the attraction of Boston doesn’t finish with its metropolis limits.
The encompassing areas are stuffed with pure magnificence, small cities, thrilling cities, and landmarks that make for excellent adventures exterior the town.
So let’s discover a number of the finest day journeys from Boston!
Finest Day Journeys From Boston
All the things on our listing is below 3 hours one-way. When you can definitely go additional than that and discover some unbelievable locations, we wished to share precise day journeys from Boston that you may get to, spend time at, and get again in 10 hours or much less.
1. Lexington & Harmony
One-Method Journey Time – 30 min
Lexington and Harmony are two historic cities only a quick drive from Boston. They performed a major position within the American Revolution and are well-known for the battles that occurred there in April 1775.
Should you’re planning a go to to Lexington and Harmony, one factor you shouldn’t miss is the Battle Street Path.
The Battle Street Path is a 5-mile path connecting the vast majority of the necessary historic websites in each cities, together with the place Paul Revere was captured and Previous North Bridge.
Wandering alongside the path is an effective way to study in regards to the historical past of the American Revolution and the way it impacted these two cities.
2. Salem
One-Method Journey Time – 40 min
Salem is a vibrant metropolis that draws guests worldwide. It’s best recognized for its notorious Salem Witch Trials of 1692, but it surely additionally has an interesting maritime historical past.
Whereas there’s a lot to advocate associated to the witch trials, we propose including a ghost tour to the top of your day. Salem has an extended and spooky historical past; many guests come to the city to study its cursed previous.
Through the tour, you’ll be able to go to a few of Salem’s most haunted places, together with Previous Burying Level Cemetery and the Witch Home. All of the whereas, a educated information can be offering ghostly legends and folklore related to the websites.
Whether or not you imagine within the paranormal or are simply on the lookout for a enjoyable and spooky expertise, a ghost tour is a should.
3. Gloucester
One-Method Journey Time – 50 min
Because the US’s oldest fishing port, Gloucester doesn’t sound all that thrilling for a day journey. However this coastal city is wealthy with maritime historical past, has unbelievable seashores, and recent seafood to chow down on that was caught the identical day.
Prime of your listing when in Gloucester needs to be taking a whale-watching tour. Off the coast of Massachusetts is without doubt one of the finest locations on the planet to see whales of their pure habitat, and a number of other corporations provide excursions from the harbor.
Through the summer time, you’ll be able to head out to Stellwagen Financial institution Nationwide Marine Sanctuary to see humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, and different marine wildlife. All of the whereas, you might be studying in regards to the whales from naturalists captivated with wildlife.
Throughout our tour, we spent high quality time with a 3-year-old juvenile humpback who obtained so near the boat I couldn’t get him all in a digicam body!
4. Newburyport
One-Method Journey Time – 50 min
With lovely historic structure, a picturesque harbor, and a quaint downtown space, Newburyport is the proper place to go for the day.
The town has the most effective of all the things concerning coastal New England. It has loads of unbelievable seafood eating places, outlets, and galleries to browse. But it surely additionally has loads of out of doors actions if you wish to expertise boating, fishing, and even beachcombing.
Whereas in Newburyport, cease by the Parker River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge just some miles exterior the town.
The refuge gives a spread of out of doors actions, together with mountaineering, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. Throughout a go to, search for deer, foxes, coyotes, and varied hen species that could possibly be residents or migratory, relying on once you go to.
5. Rockport
One-Method Journey Time – 55 min
Rockport is a small coastal city with quaint New England attraction that’s surrounded by lovely seashores and rocky shorelines.
The city has fairly the artwork scene, with a number of galleries and studios showcasing native artists’ work in varied codecs. One of the vital painted and photographed locations on the town (and the entire US) is the purple fishing shack generally known as Motif #1.
Whereas on the town, stroll alongside Bearskin Neck, the slender stretch of land that juts out into the harbor.
This stretch is stuffed with charming outlets, artwork galleries, and eating places and gives lovely ocean views. Additionally it is the place you can see Motif #1.
And once you want a break, cease for a candy deal with on the lovable Ice Cream Retailer.
6. Plymouth
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 15 min
Situated on the coast, Plymouth is known for being the positioning of the primary everlasting English settlement in North America, established by the Pilgrims in 1620.
There’s loads of historic significance within the metropolis to expertise, from Plymouth Rock to Burial Hill Cemetery.
Whereas we predict it is best to definitely see these issues, we may even recommend you not miss the Mayflower II.
The Mayflower II is a full-scale duplicate of the unique Mayflower, the ship that transported the Pilgrims to the New World.
The duplicate was constructed within the Fifties in England and sailed throughout the Atlantic to the US, the place it has been on show ever since.
You may board the ship and study what life was like for the Pilgrims throughout their journey to America. The boat is furnished with duplicate interval gadgets and reveals, and there are guides available to share the historical past and tales of the Pilgrims.
7. Previous Sturbridge Village
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 15 min
Previous Sturbridge Village is a residing historical past museum that recreates a rural New England village from the 1830s and offers a glimpse into each day life throughout this era.
The village covers over 200 acres and consists of greater than 40 historic buildings. This consists of properties, outlets, farm buildings, and extra which have all been fastidiously recreated to give you an genuine expertise.
The workers portrays villagers and demonstrates conventional crafts and expertise, like blacksmithing, woodworking, and textiles.
Take a while to speak to those costumed interpreters, as they’ll present attention-grabbing insights and reply all of your burning questions on what life was like through the 1800s.
8. Falmouth
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 55 min
On the southwestern tip of Cape Cod, Falmouth has lovely seashores, historic landmarks just like the Nobska Lighthouse, and scenic nature trails.
Whereas there’s a lot to maintain you busy on this quaint city, we propose you discover the Shining Sea Bikeway. This 10.7-mile paved path winds its means by a number of the most scenic areas of Falmouth.
Following alongside a former railroad line, the path passes by saltwater marshes, wooded areas, seashores, and gives breathtaking views of the ocean in spots alongside the best way.
You may lease a motorbike from one of many native outlets or carry your personal and spend the day leisurely pedaling alongside the path.
9. Provincetown
One-Method Journey Time – 2 hours, 35 min
Like our final suggestion, Provincetown can also be positioned on Cape Cod. Almost on reverse ends from one another, this picturesque city is positioned on the northeastern tip as a substitute.
You may’t come to a spot like Provincetown and never hit the seaside.
Once we consider iconic seashores in New England, we image sand dunes, patches of tall grass blowing within the breeze, and picket picket fences. You’ll definitely discover that right here, with Race Level Seashore being a preferred selection.
However if you wish to discover a quieter location, there are 45 miles of seashores to select from. So whether or not you wish to be within the coronary heart of all of the motion or quietly calm down with a very good e book in solitude, there can be a spot for you.
10. Martha’s Winery
One-Method Journey Time – 3 hours (give or take on account of ferry journey)
Martha’s Winery is a well known island simply off Cape Cod’s coast. With gorgeous seashores, charming cities, and a laid-back ambiance, Martha’s Winery is a well-liked vacation spot for guests worldwide.
We propose heading to Oak Bluffs, the place you can see colourful Victorian-style properties and quaint outlets.
Wander by the city and admire the charming gingerbread cottages adorned with intricate particulars and colours.
See the historic Flying Horses Carousel, the nation’s oldest repeatedly working platform carousel, which dates again to 1884. The carousel options hand-carved horses, a conventional band organ, and a brass ring sport that has entertained riders for over a century.
Day Journeys From Boston To Maine
Let’s transfer on from Massachusetts and speak about a number of the finest day journeys from Boston to cities in Maine.
11. York, Maine
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 10 min
York in southern Maine has some nice historic websites to take a look at on a day journey.
Head to the York Historic District, which options a number of well-preserved buildings from the 18th and Nineteenth centuries. Cease by the oldest church within the state or the Previous York Gaol (jail).
A go to to see the Nubble Lighthouse can also be so as. This picturesque lighthouse is taken into account one of the vital photographed lighthouses within the US.
Because the lighthouse sits on a small rocky island simply off the coast, you can not truly go to the lighthouse. However from Sohier Park, you’ll be able to study extra about it and soak up some epic views.
12. Ogunquit, Maine
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 20 min
Ogunquit is an enthralling city with picturesque seashores, many cute restaurant spots, and a thriving arts scene.
One factor it is best to do when in Ogunquit is stroll on the Marginal Method. The Marginal Method is a scenic footpath that winds alongside the rocky shoreline between Ogunquit and neighboring Perkins Cove.
The trail is simply over a mile lengthy and gives breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, with loads of spots to sit down and take within the surroundings alongside the best way. It’s an effective way to expertise the pure fantastic thing about Ogunquit and is beautiful throughout dawn and sundown.
And in case you stroll all the best way to Perkins Cove, you’ll have a further alternative to spend time in a quaint coastal city.
13. Portland, Maine
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 50 min
Portland is a coastal metropolis recognized for its Previous Port district, historic structure, and culinary scene.
If you wish to soak up some historical past, wander the Portland Freedom Path. This self-guided path takes you previous greater than 10 places used as a part of the Underground Railroad to maneuver enslaved individuals to Canada from Maine secretly.
We propose you go to the Portland Head Gentle.
Situated in Cape Elizabeth, just some miles south of downtown Portland, this lighthouse dates again to 1791. It’s the oldest lighthouse in Maine.
In contrast to the Nubble Lighthouse in York mentioned above, this one is a part of the mainland and could be seen up shut. Cease by the museum on a go to.
Or discover Fort Wiliams Park, the place the lighthouse sits. The park is sort of 100 acres and has a lot to do, from mountaineering to beachcombing to discovering a quiet spot to individuals watch.
Finest Day Journeys From Boston To Rhode Island
Rhode Island is near Massachusetts, and a number of other locations within the state make our listing of finest day journeys from Boston.
14. Windfall, Rhode Island
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 35 min
Windfall is the capital metropolis of Rhode Island and has historic attraction and prestigious universities.
If you wish to go to college campuses, Brown College and the Rhode Island Faculty of Design (RISD) are positioned right here.
Head to the RISD museum. It options greater than 100,000 artistic endeavors from world wide, together with historical artwork, modern artwork, and ornamental artwork. The museum additionally gives workshops and academic packages.
Should you can time your go to proper, we are able to’t recommend visiting WaterFire after darkish sufficient.
WaterFire is an artwork set up that includes a collection of bonfires lit on the rivers, accompanied by music, artwork, and meals distributors. It’s held each couple of weeks over the summer time months and attracts guests from all around the area.
15. Bristol, Rhode Island
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 50 min
Bristol is only a quick drive from Windfall, so you’ll be able to in all probability match them right into a single journey. You’ll want to head right here for its quaint New England really feel.
One factor to do on a go to to Bristol is to discover the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum. This historic property was constructed within the late Nineteenth century and contains a gorgeous mansion surrounded by acres of fantastically landscaped gardens and wooded trails.
Take a guided tour of the mansion to study in regards to the lives of the household who lived there and the historical past of the property itself. The gardens are a real oasis, with varied plant species and gorgeous views of Narragansett Bay.
16. Newport, Rhode Island
One-Method Journey Time – 2 hours
With historic mansions, scenic ocean views, and wealthy crusing heritage, Newport needed to make our listing.
On a go to to Newport, visiting the well-known Newport Mansions is a should.
These grand estates have been constructed through the Gilded Age of the late Nineteenth century by rich industrialists and are actually open to the general public for excursions.
Probably the most well-known of those mansions embody The Breakers, Marble Home, and The Elms, all of that are positioned alongside the scenic Cliff Stroll.
You may marvel on the opulent interiors, expansive gardens, and breathtaking ocean views that make these mansions true American treasures.
Additionally learn: Uncommon and Cool Issues to Do in Boston
17. Jamestown, Rhode Island
One-Method Journey Time – 2 hours, 15 min
One of the vital historic cities in Rhode Island and well-known for its beautiful previous structure, Jamestown is positioned in Narragansett Bay.
Whereas on the town, we propose you head to Beavertail State Park. The park is on the southern tip of Conanicut Island and gives unbelievable views of the Atlantic Ocean.
You may discover the rocky shoreline, hike on the paths, or have a picnic. One of many park’s highlights is the historic lighthouse, the third oldest within the US.
When completed on the park, swing by the Jamestown windmill. In-built 1787, it was in operation for over 100 years and continues to be in working situation.
Boston Day Journeys To New Hampshire
Up subsequent are just a few locations in New Hampshire that we all know you received’t remorse visiting.
18. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 5 min
Portsmouth is a coastal metropolis recognized for its wealthy historical past, scenic waterfront, and vibrant cultural scene.
One factor to do on a go to to Portsmouth is to go to the Strawbery Banke Museum. This residing historical past museum showcases the lives of Portsmouth residents from the late 1600s to the mid-1900s.
You may discover greater than 30 historic buildings, together with properties, outlets, and gardens, which have been restored to their unique situation. Costumed interpreters carry the previous to life, demonstrating conventional crafts and trades and sharing tales about those that lived and labored within the space.
Strawbery Banke Museum is a singular and immersive expertise that gives an interesting glimpse into Portsmouth’s historical past and heritage.
19. Harmony, New Hampshire
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 10 min
Harmony is the capital metropolis of New Hampshire, positioned within the coronary heart of the state.
There’s a lot to do right here, like go to the New Hampshire Historic Society Museum to study in regards to the state’s historical past. Or, if you wish to get out in nature, you’ll be able to kayak down the Merrimack River or hike within the forested Winant Park.
We propose you go to the New Hampshire State Home. This gorgeous Greek revival-style constructing was accomplished in 1819 and is without doubt one of the oldest state capitol buildings within the US.
The State Home options a phenomenal dome, spectacular art work, and thrilling reveals. You may take a guided tour to study in regards to the historical past of the constructing and its significance to New Hampshire’s political previous.
It’s undoubtedly the proper cease for historical past buffs and structure fans.
20. Canterbury Shaker Village, New Hampshire
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 25 min
Canterbury Shaker Village was as soon as house to a Shaker spiritual group. It’s now a residing museum and fashionable vacationer vacation spot that enables guests to expertise Shaker life and tradition.
You may discover the various historic buildings on the grounds, together with the 1792 Assembly Home, the 1823 Schoolhouse, and the 1837 Bee Home, by yourself or on a guided tour.
Guides present perception into the each day lifetime of the Shakers, sharing information in regards to the group and demonstrating crafts like broom-making.
The village options reveals showcasing the Shakers’ distinctive structure, furnishings, and inventive creations.
21. Littleton, New Hampshire (& White Mountains)
One-Method Journey Time – 2 hours, 30 min
You may’t say a lot about Littleton aside from it’s quintessential New England. With an lovable Important Avenue, a close-by lined bridge, and a grist mill, you actually can’t get far more excellent by way of what you anticipate to see within the Northeast.
The quaint downtown space is lined with historic brick buildings that home varied outlets, eating places, and galleries. Additionally it is house to the well-known Chutters sweet retailer, which boasts the world’s longest sweet counter.
Be looking out for the Pollyanna statue, which honors the beloved youngsters’s e book character created by Littleton native Eleanor H Porter.
Should you go to within the fall, heading to the White Mountains is necessary. The colourful leaves are insane and a top-rated attraction that brings guests from locations far and large.
Always of the 12 months, the White Mountains are stuffed with the magical pure fantastic thing about peaks, valleys, waterfalls, and forests. And it’s house to quite a few mountaineering trails, together with a piece of the well-known Appalachian Path.
Day Journeys From Boston To Connecticut
And final however definitely not least are day journeys from Boston to Connecticut.
22. Hartford, Connecticut
One-Method Journey Time – 1 hour, 45 min
Situated within the heart of the state is the capital metropolis of Hartford. With a lot historical past, lovely metropolis parks, and the oldest public artwork museum within the US, it’s a nice metropolis to go to for a bit.
We advocate popping by the Mark Twain Home and Museum.
This historic website was the house of the well-known American writer Mark Twain from 1874 to 1891, and the place he wrote a few of his most well-known works, corresponding to “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
Take a guided tour of the home and study Twain’s life and his work, and see most of the furnishings and private gadgets that belonged to him and his household.
23. Mystic, Connecticut
One-Method Journey Time – 2 hours, 15 min
Situated on the coast in southeastern Connecticut, Mystic is widely known for its maritime historical past and small-town attraction. Otherwise you would possibly understand it from the film “Mystic Pizza” with Julia Roberts.
Due to the film, most guests take pleasure in a cease at Mystic Pizza. Whereas this wasn’t the place the precise film was filmed, the restaurant pays homage to the film, and the pizza is fairly good too.
After choosing up a slice, make your approach to Mystic Seaport Museum.
The museum contains a recreated Nineteenth-century seafaring village and dealing shipyard, the place you’ll be able to study in regards to the historical past of maritime life in New England.
You’ll have the chance to see the final picket whale ship on the planet, the Charles W. Morgan. And see demonstrations of conventional maritime crafts corresponding to blacksmithing, coopering, and sailmaking.
24. Essex, Connecticut
One-Method Journey Time – 2 hours, 20 min
Essex is house to a pleasant Important Avenue lined with fantastically preserved colonial and Victorian-era properties and buildings.
After strolling down Important Avenue, cease on the Connecticut River Museum. The museum showcases the historical past of the Connecticut River and its affect on the encompassing area.
It options reveals on the river’s ecology, wildlife, historical past, and a set of boats and artifacts associated to the river’s previous.
Then e book a scenic cruise on the Connecticut River itself. The museum and a number of other different choices provide guided boat excursions on the longest river in New England. Benefit from the surrounding countryside whereas on the lookout for wildlife like eagles and ospreys.
25. New Haven, Connecticut
One-Method Journey Time – 2 hours, 30 min
Final however not least is New Haven. Often known as the “cultural capital of Connecticut,” the town has loads of museums, theaters, festivals, and implausible delicacies to maintain you busy.
Should you didn’t get sufficient pizza in Mystic, then that is the place to go. The town even has its personal type of pizza referred to as the “apizza.” Whereas we have now but to strive it ourselves, this thin-crusted pizza baked in a wood-fired brick oven sounds divine.
Whereas in New Haven, drop by the famend Yale College.
One of many US’s oldest and most outstanding establishments is Yale College, based in 1701. Its campus is house to a number of iconic landmarks and buildings, together with the Gothic-style Sterling Memorial Library and the Beinecke Uncommon Guide and Manuscript Library.
It’s also possible to stroll by the attractive courtyards and gardens of the campus and discover the Yale College Artwork Gallery, one of many nation’s most distinguished artwork museums.
Conclusion – 25 Finest Day Journeys From Boston
Boston is a implausible metropolis to spend time in, but it surely additionally serves as a superb place to begin for exploring the encompassing area.
Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a soothing day by the seaside, a hike by the mountains, or a stroll by a quaint New England city, you’ll discover loads of choices inside simple attain of the town.
So when planning top-of-the-line day journeys from Boston, think about one of many locations talked about right here. And put together to have an unforgettable journey!
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Jenny & John run Touring In Focus.
