7 Best Day Trips from Boston
I find that some weekends, the best way to recharge is by going somewhere new. Not a big production, just a new town, a peaceful trail, and a cozy meal in a different place. While I enjoy cooking, I love eating out and discovering new flavors for my home kitchen even more!
We’ve spent a day near Boston in places where we were surrounded by colorful gardens in the spring, sandy beaches in the summer, and colorful woods in the fall. When we moved to the East Coast, Boston instantly made the perfect starting point for quick day trips that feel like a refreshing change of pace. Here are my absolute favorites to help jumpstart your day trip adventure. I think you’ll enjoy them too.
Best Day Trips from Boston Under 1 Hour
Looking to escape the city without spending hours on the road? Here are the best day trips from Boston under one hour that we've personally enjoyed.
Rockport, MA
This is one of my favorite places for a day trip and even a weekend getaway from Boston because of the lovely coastline views, it’s easy to get to, you can enjoy breezy weather, and yet the days are still pleasantly sunny.
We drove in for an easy day trip and explored the city’s blend of New England history, the fresh seafood and salty sea air.
You can relax in Rockport's harbor, stroll along Bearskin Neck, enjoy shingled buildings, art galleries, and ocean views at every turn. I also couldn’t resist sampling New England chowder at The Lobster Pool which honestly was my highlight of our day trip from Boston.
There was so much to love about Downtown Rockport with its narrow streets, small galleries, and coastal shops. We also paused at Motif No. 1 that you can see in the photo which has inspired so many artists.
What I loved best:
Local seafood was exceptional here and my favorite highlight ...lobster rolls, fried clams, and chowder tasted even better with ocean views, making it one of the coolest foodie getaways near Boston.
Plymouth, MA
Our day trip from Boston began with a walk along the lovely waterfront. I admired the sailboats moving up and down with the rythm of the ocean and this simple fact made me instantly relax and breathe more freely. Just about an hour south of Boston, it was an easy day trip.
What really surprised me about Plymouth is how much there is beyond the famous rock. Yes, Plymouth Rock is iconic, but the town itself is full of character. You’ll find walkable streets, historic homes, and (perhaps best of all) plenty of spots to stop for fresh seafood.
Be sure to save some time for exploring local attractions like Plimoth Patuxet Museums which bring the story of the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people to life.
Another great way to experience Plymouth is with a tour with a local guide, especially if you’re a history buff.
What I loved best:
My favorite hidden gem was Brewster Gardens near downtown where I could relax, and take photos of the flowers in bloom (see my photos).
Local Tip: East Bay Grille serves amazing Crab Cakes ($24) that's well known among locals and is my personal highlight.
A downside? Parking was tricky in Plymouth during Memorial Day weekend.
New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill
Ready for a day trip amongst the flowers? Check out New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, a real standout. At less than an hour from Boston, it's the perfect spontaneous day trip that didn't take any planning.
First thing, we bought our tickets and just stood there for a second taking it all in since the views of Mount Wachusett were spectacular and gave the whole place this magic feeling.
We wandered through the conservatories first. I adored it here because the warm air, great plants, and unusual blooms felt like an instant escape into warm weather.
Leave some time to follow the paths outside, from the formal lawns to the woodland trails. It feels joyful to re-set from the daily grind.
Before leaving, check out the gift shop and café, a brilliant idea and a cool way to end the trip.
Driving back toward Boston, Chris, our son and I all agreed this was one of the absolute best, most underrated day trips and a dream experience we’ll totally do again.
What I loved best:
Orangerie and Limonaia with an exceptional collection of citrus and exotic plants that made me feel like I’d stepped into a different world.
The Butterfly Place in Westford, MA
Love the idea of tropical flowers but also want something more educational for your family day trip from Boston? The Butterfly Place in Westford, MA is the answer!
This is one of the most delightful little escapes I’ve discovered on our day trips from Boston. It’s about 40 miles north of Boston and makes for a magical and affordable day trip. Best of all, adult admission is just $15 ($11 for kids).
Have fun at this indoor tropical sanctuary, where hundreds of butterflies from around the world flutter freely, landing on lush blooms. It feels like being in a really relaxing dream.
I thought it especially amazing for kids because of the educational exhibits. Kids love the "show and tell bench," the displays of butterfly eggs, caterpillars, cocoons, and chrysalides. There was even a 15-minute video teaching the butterfly life cycle. It was the coolest interactive learning experience for our son!
What I loved best:
The outdoor picnic area where we had an amazing family picnic surrounded by natural beauty was my favorite highlight!
Best Day Trips 1 to 2 Hours from Boston
If you’re ready to venture a little farther from the city, Boston is surrounded by incredible destinations that are still easy to reach in a day.
Fuller Gardens, North Hampton, NH - Just over an hour from Boston
When in the mood for something romantic, don't overlook Fuller Gardens in New Hampshire. My husband and I headed here for my birthday and it was absolutely stunning. Sitting just about an hour north along the scenic seacoast, I instantly thought our journey to the gardens was worth it! With Adult Admission just $12, it was super affordable too.
My favorite part was walking through the formal rose gardens. You should also check out the Japanese Garden with peaceful koi ponds, and the Conservatory filled with exotic plants. And, yes, many areas are handicap accessible.
Local tip: We spent two days at 3-star Lamies Inn and The Old Salt Restaurant where the atmosphere is Old-world romantic.
A downside? Dogs are not allowed (unless they are registered service animals).
Kennebunkport
Chris, our son and I loved visiting this charming Maine town just about 90 minutes north from Boston on our road trip.
First thing we did was grab coffee near Dock Square and I instantly thought that little coastal town felt like a hidden gem and super welcoming.
Walking along the harbor was such an amazing experience. We spent some time browsing the most interesting local shops and galleries, which honestly felt underrated and very relaxed compared to busier towns.
Lunch was one of the absolute best parts. We shared lobster rolls by the water and it was my favorite meal of the weekend.
Later we drove to Goose Rocks Beach nearby. The sand was soft, the water calm, and we could relax completely.
Before ending our day trip, we stopped for ice cream in town.
What I loved best:
I found the scenic boat tour to be one of the absolute best ways to experience the coastline.
Stonington Borough - 2 hours from Boston
This destination turned out to be one of the most amazing hidden gems I’ve found this month, sitting about two hours south near the Rhode Island border.
You can park near the harbor and walk along the waterfront, which already felt like a dream with sailboats and salty air.
We wandered along the quiet streets next. I thought that the historic homes and ocean views made this experience feel truly unique.
After that, stop for coffee and a snack. We kept walking toward the lighthouse, and that short stroll ended up being one of the most scenic walks Chris and I've done in New England.
The lighthouse (and its museum) itself is such a cool stop that you simply have to make time for it. It's 170 years old and really lets you feel the spirit of Stonington Borough!
After our lighthouse visit, we explored the small shops and galleries, which were full of local character.
We grabbed late lunch by the water, and sitting there watching boats pass by felt like magic and such a relaxing day trip vibe.
What I loved best:
For me, Stonington Borough is one of the best day trips from Boston because it's underrated and relaxing.
I thought the Stonington Village Farmers' Market this Saturday was one of the best surprises. It's an exciting place filled with fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts that added so much character to our day trip.
Local tip: the lighthouse museum usually closes for the winter season and reopens in May.
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.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
