• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Relax on Cape Cod National Seashore (1 hour 45 minutes) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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2. Visit shops and museums in Kennebunkport (1.5 hours) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

© Courtesy of Enrico Della Pietra - Fotolia.com

3. Head to the Beaches of Rockport, MA (50 minutes)

Category: Relaxing Beaches
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4. Enjoy the relaxed vibe of Stonington, CT (2 hours)

© Stonington Borough

5. Take the kids to the water park in Portsmouth (1 hour Day Trip from Boston)

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6. For Kids and Nature Lovers - The Butterfly Place in Westford, MA (45 minutes from Boston)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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7. If you want to spend the day indoors, visit the Peabody Essex Museum (40 minutes)

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© Peabody Essex Museum

8. To help your kids understand the old ways, visit Old Sturbridge Village (1 hour)

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9. Don't Forget the Norman Rockwell Museum in the Berkshires (2 hours)

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© Norman Rockwell Museum

10. If you love old movies, Tour The House of the Seven Gables also in Salem (40 minutes)

Tours in the Area
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11. Take a Scenic Drive to Good Harbor Beach (50 minutes from Boston)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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12. Get to know Provincetown (2.5 hours)

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13. Stop at the New Bedford Whaling Museum (1 hour)

Category: Museums & Culture for Couples
© New Bedford Whaling Museum

14. While in Provincetown, Admire the View at Race Point Beach (2 hours 14 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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15. Take kids hiking in Wompatuck State Park (30 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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16. While in Rockport, Tour a Granite Quarry in Halibut Point State Park (1 hour)

Tours in the Area
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17. Concord has several claims to fame (35 minutes)

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18. For basketball fans - The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1 hour 45 minutes)

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
© The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

19. Explore the beaches and historical attractions in Plymouth, MA (50 minutes)

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
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20. Learn about the Revolutionary War in Lexington (30 minutes)

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21. Admire and Photograph Glendale Falls (2 hours 10 minutes)

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

Massachusetts contains an array of unique attractions and beautiful natural areas for all types of travelers. Boston is perfectly positioned for day trips to the beach as well as inland to parks and waterfalls.

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