Weekend Getaways from Boston
When visiting my in-laws here, as a local I found weekend getaways from Boston to be full of charm and variety. Within just a few hours’ drive, you can escape to the rocky coasts of Maine, the serene mountains of New Hampshire, the rolling countryside of Vermont, or the sandy beaches of Cape Cod. Each destination offers its own mix of history, nature, and vibrant culture, whether it’s browsing quaint New England villages, hiking scenic trails, indulging in fresh seafood, or exploring art-filled towns.
For me, one of the best parts is choosing the right place to stay: from cozy coastal inns and rustic mountain lodges to charming bed-and-breakfasts and boutique hotels that make the perfect home base for your adventure. Here are some unique accommodations I came across that I think you’ll enjoy on your Boston-area getaways.
1. Wequassett Resort & Golf Club
Wequassett Resort strikes the perfect balance between classic New England coastal charm and modern luxury. Think cedar-shingled cottages, sweeping ocean views, and elegant interiors softened with nautical touches. It’s both upscale and inviting—ideal for a romantic getaway, family trip, or indulgent solo escape.
My guest room for two nights (a Premier Water View King) was bright, spacious, and thoughtfully designed. The private deck overlooking Pleasant Bay was a highlight, perfect for morning coffee or evening sunsets. Inside, I loved the plush king bed with crisp linens, the cozy seating area, the marble bathroom with a rainfall shower and soaking tub, the Nespresso machine, and little touches like fresh flowers and luxe bath products.
The resort’s grounds are a destination in themselves—lush gardens, a private beach, a heated waterfront pool, and championship golf. Dining was another standout: from the upscale Twenty-Eight Atlantic with floor-to-ceiling bay views to the more casual Outer Bar & Grille right on the water. And if you’re in the mood for adventure, kayaking, sailing, and tennis are just steps away.
To book, check availability or prices for Wequassett Resort & Golf Club.
My favorite moment was the sunrise yoga class on the beach.
2. 21 Broad Hotel
There’s something about Nantucket that shifts your pace the second you arrive. At 21 Broad Hotel, that feeling came with crisp design, clean lines, and sunlit common spaces that made it hard to leave the lobby.
I caught the ferry from Hyannis (just over 2 hours on the traditional boat, or about an hour on the high-speed for $89 round-trip) out to Nantucket.
I wandered into 21 Broad and was smitten—the place feels like a breath of salty island air, tempered by polished design and warm personality. It’s historic in bones (a classic Nantucket Victorian), but it’s been refreshed so beautifully that the past and present dance together.
Our room for the night (a King size) was cozy yet elegant—soft coastal tones, natural wood, crisp linens, and just enough modern flair to feel luxe without being flashy. Large windows let in light, bathrooms have walk-in glass showers, and there are thoughtful little touches like premium bath products, a mini-fridge, and strong WiFi.
The public spaces are a charm. There’s an inviting front porch perfect for people-watching, a courtyard with fire pits that feels like a hide-away, and common areas that blend Victorian details (period moldings, mantels, wood floors) with fresh, modern design.
Other goodies include a complimentary mixer hour in the evening (mixers, garnishes, and light bites), a fresh breakfast spread in the morning, beach gear like chairs and bags, umbrellas, and eco-friendly touches such as refillable water stations.
Location is superb: right in historic downtown Nantucket, steps from the ferry, shops, restaurants, and the harbor—yet the hotel still feels like a peaceful island retreat.
To book, check availability or prices for 21 Broad Hotel.
My favorite moment was relaxing in the fire pit courtyard with my husband.
3. Ocean Edge
I drove 1 hour 15 minutes southeast from Boston to Ocean Edge in Brewster, a stately seaside resort set along Cape Cod Bay.
Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club is one of my favorite Cape Cod weekend getaways, and it’s a hidden gem for both romantic weekends and family getaways.
I rolled into Ocean Edge and felt instantly grounded—Cape Cod elegance wrapped in warm, welcoming luxury. The property is sprawling, with lush gardens, dunes, water views, forests, and that breezy coastal air everywhere. Historic charm meets resort-scale amenities in a way that feels indulgent without over-the-top.
My guest room (a Mansion-Wing King or one of their villas) was roomy yet cozy. Soft bedding, refurbished classic touches, a private balcony or terrace with views, a walk-in shower or shower/tub combo, great toiletries, strong WiFi, and thoughtful in-room storage. Some rooms even have kitchenettes and washer/dryer setups.
Common spaces are a treat. There’s a grand historic mansion, multiple indoor and outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and easy access to a private beach with chair and towel service. The leisure options are plentiful: golf on a Nicklaus-designed course, tennis courts, croquet, biking and walking trails, paddleboarding, kayaking, and beachcombing. The ambience is upscale but relaxed.
Dining is another highlight, with on-site restaurants and bars offering everything from casual bites by the pool to elegant dinners in refined settings.
Other conveniences include a 24/7 front desk, concierge services, a fitness center, shuttle service around the resort, valet and self-parking, children’s programming, and beautiful public areas—terraces, gardens, and lounges—perfect for settling in with a book or a drink.
My favorite moment was heading to the private beach for a calm walk.
4. Hotel Viking
I drove 40 minutes south from Providence to Newport, a coastal city famous for its Gilded Age mansions and sailing heritage.
I stepped into Hotel Viking and immediately felt like I’d been transported into a romantic Gilded Age fairytale—but with all the modern perks I crave. With its red-brick Colonial Revival façade, grand entrance, and elegant public spaces, the hotel exudes old-world charm, yet feels very alive and welcoming.
My guest room was nicely upholstered in historic opulence blended with fresh updates. Think thick plush beds with pillow-top mattresses, silky Egyptian cotton or satin sheets, marble baths with rain showers, modern flat-screen TVs, and high-speed internet. Some rooms evoke the grandeur of old mansions, with fireplaces, ornate furniture, and vintage decor; others lean more contemporary but still feel luxe and comfortable.
The hotel’s amenities are plentiful. There’s a full-service spa (Spa Fjör) for when I want to be pampered—massages, facials, relaxation. A heated indoor pool and jacuzzi/spa-sauna make it easy to unwind. There’s also a fitness center to keep things active. Dining is a highlight: One Bellevue Restaurant delivers upscale meals (seafood, local ingredients, classics with flair), and I loved the rooftop “Top of Newport Bar & Kitchen” for drinks with a view. The lobby bar and café options are cozy spots to read or people-watch.
The location is superb: set on Bellevue Avenue so you’re in the heart of Newport’s elegant historic district, a walk away from mansions, shops, the harbor, Thames Street, and the Cliff Walk. It feels both central and serene.
To book, check availability or prices for Hotel Viking.
My favorite moment was lounging by the indoor pool after a spa treatment.
5. Normandy Farms
My husband, son and I drove 45 minutes southwest from Boston to Normandy Farms, a family-friendly camping resort tucked between Boston and Cape Cod.
I pulled into Normandy Farms and felt like I’d stumbled into a place that marries being out in nature with all the thoughtful touches of a luxe resort. It’s woodsy and homey, yet so well cared for that comfort is everywhere—from the details in the cabins to the amenities that make “camping” feel more like glamping.
My cabin offered just enough personality and rustic charm without sacrificing comfort. Cozy beds, clean sheets, sturdy deck that let you hear the trees, whisper of wind.
The common areas are a highlight. There’s the huge recreation lodge with indoor pool & jacuzzi, an arcade, fitness center, wellness services like sauna and massage, lofts for quiet reading or chilling, and a café or snack bar so getting something casual is easy.
Outdoors, you’ve got multiple outdoor pools, a splash pad, ponds for fishing or relaxing on the shore, trails for walking or biking, a dog park, and fields for sports (volleyball, tennis, etc.). Playgrounds, shuffleboard, bocce, disc golf—lots of ways to (or not) be active.
Dining is relaxed, family-friendly. There’s a snack bar, general store, food trucks or casual meals, sometimes items delivered to sites. You’re not getting white-tablecloth, but everything feels good, satisfying, set for the outdoors yet thoughtful.
Check prices at Normandy Farms
My favorite moment was watching the sunset from my cabin deck.
6. Boardman House Inn
We drove 45 minutes southeast from Hartford. I think that The Boardman House Inn is one of the best weekend getaways from Boston. Why? The inn wasn’t flashy, and that’s what made it unforgettable. Tucked into a quiet corner of East Haddam, it felt like I had stepped into the kind of New England that still writes love letters.
I pulled up to Boardman House Inn and felt like I’d stepped into a timeless New England story—one where elegance and warmth coexist. The place is an 1860s Second Empire mansion, with towered roofs, ornate details, and graceful proportions. It’s historic in style, rich in character, but updated just enough so you enjoy all the comforts without losing its soul.
My guest room was a blend of antique romance and modern ease. Some rooms, like the Garden Suite, even had private entrances or porches with spacious sitting areas perfect for relaxing.
The common spaces felt like being welcomed into someone’s cherished home. There were grand rooms with fireplaces, polished wood floors, charming antiques, and quiet nooks for reading or daydreaming. Outside, beautifully landscaped gardens and lawns offered peaceful corners for reflection and unwinding.
To book, check availability or prices for Boardman House Inn.
My favorite moment was the evening stroll through the gardens.
7. The Sagamore on Lake George
We drove just over an hour north from Saratoga Springs to The Sagamore, a grand old resort set on its own private island in Lake George.
If you're dreaming of a classic Adirondack escape with serious luxury, The Sagamore is where it’s at.
This stunning resort sits on its very own private island on Lake George. I usually drive up from NYC (about 4 hours). It's a 4-hour drive from Boston as well.
My guest room was a treat. Whether in the historic main hotel, one of the lodges, or a luxury suite, there were lovely Adirondack-inspired touches—wood tones, warm textiles, classic furniture—blended with crisp, contemporary comforts.
Public spaces are plentiful and beautiful. The Sagamore offers both indoor and outdoor pools with lake views, a full spa and salon, multiple recreational courts (tennis, pickleball), a scenic 18-hole golf course, and waterfront dining options. There is a Rec Center, a dock and marina, boats and water sports, and easy access to stroll or shuttle into Bolton Landing.
Dining at The Sagamore has variety. From elegant dinners in upscale restaurants to casual lunches by the water or snack bars by the pool, there are multiple bars and food outlets depending on how fancy or relaxed you feel.
My favorite moment was a stroll through the gardens.
8. Hull-O Farms, Durham, New York
This was a warm and charming farm stay tucked away in the rolling Catskills of Durham, New York! Hull-O Farms is a true countryside retreat, blending rustic farm life with cozy comforts. The setting was idyllic—wide open fields, lush green pastures, and sweeping views of the mountains, all creating a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life.
My accommodation (a farmhouse room) was bright, spacious, and full of country charm, with antique furnishings, quilted bedding, and big windows overlooking the farm. It felt homely and welcoming rather than polished or modern, which added to the authentic experience. The farmhouse touches—hardwood floors, floral curtains, and hand-carved furniture—created a nostalgic atmosphere that instantly made me feel at ease.
A highlight was being able to participate in farm activities. Each morning, I joined the family to help bottle-feed calves, collect fresh eggs from the chicken coop, and greet the goats, sheep, and horses. It was both grounding and delightful, especially for families or anyone wanting a hands-on farm experience.
For meals, the focus was on farm-fresh, hearty cooking. Breakfasts were a standout—farmhouse-style with fresh eggs, homemade breads, and jams, all sourced straight from the farm. Sitting around the farmhouse table, with the scent of fresh coffee and baked goods in the air, felt like a step back in time to a simpler, more connected way of living.
Beyond the farm, there were plenty of serene spots to relax—rocking chairs on the porch, trails to wander, and wide-open lawns perfect for stargazing at night.
My favorite moment was feeding the playful baby goats.
9. The Inn at Shelburne Farms, VT
We drove 15 minutes south from Burlington to The Inn at Shelburne Farms, featuring towering maples, endless meadows, and Lake Champlain stretched out like a silver mirror.
This was a magnificent and historic country estate turned inn, nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain in Shelburne, Vermont. Staying here felt like stepping into a grand Gilded Age retreat, with its sweeping lawns, lakeside gardens, and breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains across the water. The sense of tranquility and old-world elegance was unlike anything else.
My room (a historic guest room in the main inn) for two nights was filled with character and timeless charm—antique furnishings, high ceilings, and rich woodwork throughout. It had tall windows opening out to stunning lake views, with soft morning light filtering in through vintage drapery. Unlike a modern boutique hotel, this was about atmosphere and heritage, where every detail carried a story.
Dining at the inn was a true farm-to-table experience. The restaurant sources ingredients directly from Shelburne Farms, which is both an active working farm and a nonprofit. Meals celebrated Vermont’s seasonal bounty—think fresh cheeses, garden vegetables, and rustic, hearty dishes elevated with finesse. My breakfast was unforgettable: warm pastries, fresh berries, and eggs collected right from the farm, served in the sunlit dining room overlooking the water.
Beyond the inn, the estate offered beautiful grounds to explore—miles of walking trails, serene gardens, and lakeside paths perfect for a sunset stroll. The grand architecture of the mansion, the barns, and the working farm itself added to the sense of immersion. It felt like a retreat not just into nature, but into history and sustainability as well.
My favorite moment was wandering through the flower gardens at dusk.
More to explore...
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
