If you’re itching to escape Boston for a day, I’ve got a few tried-and-true ideas. After 25 years of scouting out quick getaways, I still swear by these day trips from Boston. You’ll swap city buzz for seaside breezes, colonial charm, and peaceful trails—without spending half the day on the road. Whether you’re chasing history, sand, or fresh air, I think you’ll find just the change of scenery you need.

Highlights:

  • Stroll the historic streets of Salem—I always feel a spell of nostalgia here, and you’ll love the quirky shops and waterfront views.
  • Relax on Cape Ann’s beaches; I like to grab a lobster roll and watch the boats while you unwind on the sand.
  • Explore Concord and Lexington’s Revolutionary War landmarks. I still get goosebumps standing where the first shots rang out—you will too.
  • Visit Plimoth Patuxet Museums for living history; every time I go, you and I learn something new about early New England life.
  • Hike the scenic trails at Blue Hills Reservation. I take in the skyline from the summit, and you’ll love how wild it feels so close to the city.

Best Day Trips from Boston:

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

Courtesy of Patricia - Fotolia.com

Relax on Cape Cod National Seashore (1 hour 45 minutes) - Walk along sandy shores and admire ocean views on a relaxing retirement trip.                                     

Visit shops and museums in Kennebunkport (1.5 hours)

Courtesy of Enrico Della Pietra - Fotolia.com

Visit shops and museums in Kennebunkport (1.5 hours) - Visit charming shops and explore maritime museums on a romantic weekend getaway.                                     

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

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Head to the Beaches of Rockport, MA (50 minutes) - Swim coastal waters and sunbathe on soft sands during a fun summer trip.                                     

Enjoy the relaxed vibe of Stonington, CT (2 hours)

Stonington Borough

Enjoy the relaxed vibe of Stonington, CT (2 hours) - Stroll the harborfront and explore quaint streets on a peaceful couples retreat.                                    

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

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Take the kids to the water park in Portsmouth (1 hour Day Trip from Boston) - Splash down slides and float the lazy river on a fun family day.                                     

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

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For Kids and Nature Lovers - The Butterfly Place in Westford, MA (45 minutes from Boston) - Walk among butterflies and learn about nature on a kids-friendly spring visit.                                     

If you want to spend the day indoors, visit the Peabody Essex Museum (40 minutes)

Peabody Essex Museum

If you want to spend the day indoors, visit the Peabody Essex Museum (40 minutes) - Admire global art and explore galleries on a cultural indoor escape.                                    

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

Courtesy of Jeff Schultes - Fotolia.com

To help your kids understand the old ways, visit Old Sturbridge Village (1 hour) - See costumed interpreters and explore 1830s life on an educational trip with kids.                                     

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

Norman Rockwell Museum

Don't Forget the Norman Rockwell Museum in the Berkshires (2 hours) - Admire classic illustrations and tour the studio on a meaningful fall visit.                                    

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

Courtesy of Pierrette Guertin - Fotolia.com

If you love old movies, Tour The House of the Seven Gables also in Salem (40 minutes) - Explore literary history and tour old movie settings on a nostalgic couples trip.                                     

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What makes Massachusetts a great travel destination?
    • Massachusetts offers a variety of unique attractions and beautiful natural areas for all types of travelers.
  • What kind of day trips can visitors take from Boston?
    • Boston is perfectly positioned for day trips to the beach as well as inland to parks and waterfalls.

Best Time for Day Trips from Boston, Massachusetts:

  • April to June – Spring offers blooming gardens, mild weather, and ideal conditions for coastal walks and historic towns.
  • July to August – Summer is perfect for beach escapes, ferry rides, and classic New England seaside adventures.
  • September to October – Brilliant fall foliage, apple picking, and scenic drives make this a magical time to explore.
  • November – Crisp days and fewer crowds ideal for museums, colonial villages, and coastal dining.
  • December to March – Winter brings cozy small towns, festive charm, and snowy hikes in nearby parks.

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)