The 16 best day trips from Boston

30mins from Boston

Salem is forever linked to its horrifying and fascinating 1692 Witch Trials, a curiousity that still draws tourists in droves—especially during the Halloween season. 

Do this: The Witch House was once the residence of Witch Trials presiding Judge Corwin and now it's a museum that transports visitors back to that chilling era. The Peabody Essex Museum boasts a remarkable collection of art and artifacts. Salem also holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Nathaniel Hawthorne, the celebrated author of The House of the Seven Gables, and you can even tour the 350-year-old Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, which may have inspired his famous novel. A short 10-minute drive from downtown, in Forest River Park, Pioneer Village, though dating back only to 1930, vividly reenacts early 17th-century colonial life. Looking for a totally different vibe? Nerd out with old school arcade games and pinball machines at Bit Bar. 

Eat this: Experience innovative American cuisine at Ledger or savor the modern comfort food at Settler. For a more laidback experience, be sure to grab a bite at Gulu-Gulu Cafe, known for its bohemian atmosphere, extensive beer list, and creative European-inspired dishes.

30mins from Boston

Concord is a historic town most known as the birthplace of the American Revolution, where the "shot heard 'round the world" was fired at the Old North Bridge. It's also famous for its rich literary heritage, having been home to transcendentalist giants like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau (who wrote Walden there), and Louisa May Alcott. 

Do this: Stroll to the Old North Bridge and explore Minute Man National Historical Park’s five-mile Battle Road Trail, which commemorates the Battle of Concord (April 19, 1775), where militia confronted British troops and ignited the Revolutionary War. Concord also served as the heart of the 19th-century Transcendentalist movement, nurturing influential authors and thinkers like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and Bronson Alcott; the Concord Museum is an excellent place to delve into these connections. Just outside Concord Center, discover Walden Pond, honoring Thoreau's famed naturalist journal, and Orchard House, where Louisa May Alcott penned Little Women 150 years ago.

Eat this: For DIY dining, pick up a picnic lunch at The Concord Cheese Shop, a local favorite for its vast selection of cheeses. Or dine in at The Saltbox Kitchen, whose tasty dishes and small-batch brewery are both fueled by fresh produce from its nearby Saltbox Farm. For a nice dinner, Woods Hill Table also sources ingredients from their own farm in Bath, NH, offering a true farm-to-table experience. And for a sleek, seasonally-focused culinary journey, 80 Thoreau is worth the day trip to Concord alone.

30mins from Boston

One of the best ways to experience Lexington on a day trip is by bicycle, thanks to the Minuteman Bikeway. This scenic path begins in North Cambridge and extends through the leafy suburb, covering approximately 10-15 miles northwest of Boston.

Do this: Posh Lexington is most famous for its historic Battle Green, where the bloody Battle of Lexington took place and Minute Men fought the British Army on Lexington Common. Many of the original homes flanking the battleground are preserved, including one that serves as a visitor’s center. Beyond that, explore the Buckman Tavern, where the Minute Men gathered before that battle, and Munroe Tavern, which served as a British hospital during the retreat. For a deeper dive into the period, visit the National Heritage Museum, showcasing exhibits on American history and culture, and consider a peaceful stroll through the Lexington Public Gardens for a moment of Zen amidst the history.

Eat this: Indulge in homemade ice cream at Rancatore's, or savor the culinary creations at il Casale, where chef Dante de Magistris draws from his family's Campagnian roots to craft handmade pastas, delightful sfizis, and classic dishes within a rustic-chic ambiance. For an elegant Sunday brunch or dinner, The Inn at Hastings Park's Town Meeting Bistro offers a modern take on New England fare in a dining room adorned with flag tapestries. 

45mins from Boston

Shipbuilders and fishermen put Gloucester on the map, and both industries still exist there today—albeit on a smaller scale.

Do this: In Gloucester, the solemn Fishermen’s Memorial on the harbor stands as a tribute to all lost at sea, famously including the Andrea Gail and its crew, the real-life victims of The Perfect Storm. Be sure to visit the Cape Ann Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts unique to Gloucester and its environs. Beauport Cruise Lines provides seasonal excursions around the harbor.

Eat this: You can savor straight-off-the-boat seafood at the chic basement restaurant Tonno. If you're craving hearty, wood-fire-cooked dishes and thoughtfully crafted cocktails, Oak to Ember will impress. For those prioritizing ocean views, head to the Beauport Hotel, where its 1606 Restaurant offers a fantastic deck overlooking the water. 

45mins from Boston

The delightful Newburyport Historic District, encompassing most of the downtown, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and boasts a trove of well-preserved Federal-period architecture, including the notable Cushing House Museum & Garden, the former home of statesman Caleb Cushing, and the Custom House Maritime Museum, both of which illuminate local history.

Do this: The picturesque Waterfront Park and its boardwalk regularly host concerts during warmer months. For live entertainment, catch a play or show at the Firehouse Center for the Arts. This charming city also encompasses a portion of serene Plum Island, a barrier island offering views of expansive salt marshes.

Eat this: For a bite to eat or a refreshing drink, you've got some great options. You can grab a gourmet sandwich and a bottle of wine at Joppa Fine Foods, unwind with excellent cocktails and modern Middle Eastern bites at Bar25, or enjoy classic seafood at The Black Cow. Alternatively, head over to the Newburyport Brewing Company for its friendly taproom and beer garden.

1hr 10mins from Boston

Kittery, mostly known for its excellent outlet shopping, is in fact a charming coastal town offering a blend of history, craft beverages, and a burgeoning culinary scene. 

Do this: Shop 'til you drop at the Kittery Premium Outlets, where you'll find a wide array of stores from discounted Calvin Klein to delectable Lindt chocolate. Discover local brews at Tributary Brewing Company, which features a cool tasting room and often hosts live music on weekends. Explore Kittery Foreside, the historic and revitalized downtown area, by wandering through Wallingford Square, which is dotted with unique shops and a variety of restaurants.

Eat this: Make your first stop Bob’s Clam Hut, a 60-year-old roadside diner famous for its incredible fried clams, sustainable local fish, and amazing milkshakes. Enjoy delicious and convenient Asian cuisine at Anju Noodle Bar in the Foreside. For sweet treats, indulge in some of New England's best pastries and excellent chai from Lil's Café's bakery. This quaint spot, set in a former bank, uniquely features its old walk-in safe transformed into a "Vinyl Vault," a small alcove selling used records.

1hr 30mins from Boston

The seaside town where New York's elite vacationed and built massive homes during the Gilded Age now beckons tourists of all stripes to shop, dine on delicious seafood, and get an inside peek at some of those decadent mansions.

Do this: Newport's Gilded Age mansions were built to astound, and their grandeur continues to impress today. If your time allows for just one estate tour, The Breakers is a must-see. Nearby, car enthusiasts will love the Audrain Auto Museum, nestled in a beautiful Art Deco building with a rotating display of remarkable vehicles, and the International Tennis Hall of Fame is also close by. For breathtaking ocean vistas, consider a stroll along the Cliff Walk, or unwind at Easton’s Beach. You can also wander across the causeway to Goat Island, home to the Newport Harbor Lighthouse and the luxurious Gurney’s Resort.

Eat this: For a taste of history, head to Marlborough Street and dine at the White Horse Tavern, which claims to be America's oldest restaurant. If you're craving dinner and drinks with a view, The Reef at Howard Wharf is your spot. Near the harbor, Bowen’s Wharf beckons with its charming 18th-century buildings, now a delightful maze of shops and restaurants to explore.

1hr 30mins from Boston

Falmouth is nestled on the southwestern part of Cape Cod, 20 miles south of the Sagamore Bridge. Lined with great beaches, cool boutiques and relaxing spots to eat and drink, it's also one of The Cape’s easiest towns to get to. 

Do this: Delve into 1700s Cape Cod life at the Falmouth Museums on the Green, where the Federalist home of Dr. Francis Wicks is beautifully preserved and filled with original artifacts. For an outdoor experience, bike or stroll the Shining Sea Bikeway, a scenic coastal trail from Falmouth to Woods Hole, named after Katherine Lee Bates's famous poem and following ancient Wampanoag Indian paths. For beach lovers, Falmouth boasts several beautiful beaches like Surf Drive Beach and Old Silver Beach, perfect for swimming or catching a sunset. History buffs might also enjoy a visit to Nobska Lighthouse for picturesque views, or exploring the cultural offerings at Highfield Hall & Gardens, a meticulously restored historic estate with beautiful grounds and art exhibits. 

Eat this: For an authentic taste of Falmouth, start your day with breakfast or lunch like a local at The Pickle Jar Kitchen, where you'll find creative, comforting dishes amidst quirky surrounds. For classic Cape Cod seafood in a no-frills setting, head to The Quarterdeck Restaurant, a long-standing local favorite celebrated for its fresh catches. In Woods Hole, Water Street Kitchen offers a refined yet casual dining experience with a focus on fresh, local, and globally inspired cuisine.

1hr 40mins from Boston

Providence is a true foodie's paradise, largely due to the abundant culinary talent fostered by the nearby Johnson & Wales University’s College of Culinary Arts. This small capital city also boasts the Rhode Island School of Design, which infuses a delightful artistic flair into its otherwise industrial landscape.

Do this: Waterplace Park serves as a charming gathering spot, famously anchoring the city's annual WaterFire program, where braziers along the Providence River are lit at sunset and stoked by black-clad figures on boats, all set to themed music. Providence is also a cultural hub, home to the acclaimed Trinity Repertory Company, and The Strand Ballroom & Theatre, recognized as one of the nation’s top rock venues. Additionally, the Rhode Island School of Design’s museum boasts one of the country’s finest university art collections.

Eat this: Hemenway’s, located downtown, reigns as the grand dame of area seafood restaurants, while Waterman Grille holds that title on the East Side near Brown University. For a taste of something unique, Aleppo Sweets is a wonderful Syrian bakery and cafe. And for options galore, Federal Hill, the city’s impressive Italian neighborhood, is overflowing with authentic Italian eateries and specialty shops like Massimo or Pane e Vino. 

1hr 45mins from Boston​​

Maine's largest city, located about 105 miles north of Boston, attracts epicureans from around the country to its cobblestone streets.

Do this: Meander through the charming, hilly Old Port district, where vibrant boutiques showcase every imaginable treasure. Duck into one of the many quaint pubs or dimly lit cocktail bars, such as the excellent Jewel Box or Blyth & Burrows—the latter masterfully combining innovative mixology with equally delicious small plates. In the West End arts district, immerse yourself in the I.M. Pei-designed Portland Museum of Art or catch a national act—musical, comedic, or theatrical—at the historic State Theatre.

Eat this: Portland's food scene truly lives up to its reputation. Savor nationally celebrated Vietnamese fare at Cong Tu Bot, or enjoy an inventive vegetarian meal at Green Elephant. For progressive twists on Mediterranean cooking, try Evo Kitchen + Bar. Alternatively, head to Union, a vibrant locavore haunt nestled within The Press Hotel, a historic building that once housed the Portland Press Herald. Have a sweet tooth? Swing through Holy Donut to sample their gourmet potato-based donuts.  

1hr 45mins from Boston

Watch Hill, a charming coastal village within Westerly, boasts one of the East Coast's finest beaches with a touch of celebrity allure.

Do this: Arrive early to wander the Napatree Point Conservation Area, where remnants of Fort Mansfield can be found, alongside a rich array of birdlife including osprey and piping plovers. After your nature walk, head into the charming town for a stroll and some shopping. The kids will love the vintage carousel. 

Eat this: Have lunch at the historic Olympia Tea Room (rumored to be a favorite of Taylor Swift, whose massive Watch Hill home is visible from afar). For another delectable option, grab a casual, yet fresh, bite at the St. Clair Annex, known for its classic diner fare and famous homemade ice cream. Conclude your day with elegant cocktails and a bite at the magnificent Ocean House, a prestigious triple Forbes five-star resort perched cliffside above the ocean. 

1hr 45mins from Boston

Set on the breathtaking Maine coast, Ogunquit is a popular, classic beach town with a quiet ambiance, particularly in the cooler months when crowds disappear. But it’s also a historic arts community; the Ogunquit Museum of American Art was started in the 1950s by native artist Henry Strater, a student of Ogunquit’s Perkins Cove artists colony.

Do this: Wander the galleries around town, explore the Barn Gallery on Shore Road and get tickets to a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse—which boasts eight decades of professional theatre and summertime children’s productions. You can stroll the breathtaking Marginal Way cliff walk for stunning ocean views, relax on the expansive Ogunquit Beach.

Eat this: Offering a lively scene right on the water, Barnacle Billy's in Perkins Cove is an iconic, casual spot perfect for classic boiled lobster, steamers, and their famous rum punch. For a more traditional lobster pound experience where you can pick your own lobster, Ogunquit Lobster Pound Restaurant delivers fresh, authentic Maine seafood in a casual setting. Alternatively, The Lobster Shack in Perkins Cove is a casual spot for delicious lobster rolls and other fried seafood. 

1hr 45mins from Boston

Settled in 1654, Mystic was once a shipbuilding seaport village. Now, it's a quintessential New England town, packed with mom-and-pop shops and activities for the whole family. 

Do this: In downtown Mystic, explore the charming collection of independently owned boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops along East and West Main Streets. Alternatively, you could wander through Olde Mistick Village, an open-air area with shopping and eats designed to resemble a 1720s Colonial village. For a sweet treat, grab a scoop at Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream right by the iconic Mystic River Bascule Bridge, and be sure to witness the bridge opening if you can—it's a classic Mystic sight. Visit the renowned Mystic Aquarium or the immersive Mystic Seaport Museum, which vividly brings maritime history to life.

Eat this: Indulge your sweet tooth with an award-winning, treat from Sift Bake Shop, run by Adam Young, who won the Food Network's Best Baker in America competition in 2018 for his delectable, French-style pastries. For something savory, splurge on a classic Connecticut lobster roll at The Shipwright's Daughter or opt for a hearty, grass-fed burger and views of the Mystic River at The Engine Room. And for those craving pizza in Mystic, head to Nana’s Bakery and Pizza for inventive takes on personal pies, or the more famous Mystic Pizza, renowned as the inspiration for the 1988 Julia Roberts rom-com of the same name. 

2hrs 10mins from Boston

Just off I-90, Stockbridge is the gateway to the beautiful Berkshires, part of the Taconic Mountains.

Do this: Nature and art dominate the area: Just off Park Street, behind Main Street, cross the wooden footbridge to explore the Laurel Hill Association’s beautiful trails. Art enthusiasts must visit the Norman Rockwell Museum to discover where the renowned illustrator lived and worked. Nearby, explore Chesterwood, the former home of Lincoln Memorial sculptor Daniel Chester French, and Naumkeag, a breathtaking Gilded Age architectural masterpiece. Close by, embark on a guided tour of The Mount, Edith Wharton’s meticulously preserved home, to learn about the famed Victorian era author and her lovely estate.

Eat this: Main Street is home to the venerable Red Lion Inn, a one-time frontier town tavern that now offers dining in its casual Widow Bingham’s Tavern and a gorgeously original main dining room, featuring traditional favorites and an award-winning wine list. Once Upon a Table is a cozy French bistro known for its intimate atmosphere, or enjoy a more casual, yet delicious, meal at the Marketplace Cafe, a local favorite for fresh, seasonal fare.

2hrs 30mins from Boston

The Pilgrims first landed here, not at the famous rock, in 1620, but today, colorful and creative Provincetown ("P-Town" to those in the know) is an artsy seaside town with a deep LGBTQ+ history that continues to thrive. Located at the tip of the Cape, the drive to P-Town is long, boring, and almost always packed with traffic. Smart planners know to take the 90-minute fast ferry from Boston.

Do this: To truly experience P-Town, take a walk down Commercial Street, its lively center, where you'll discover a variety of friendly local shops, inviting restaurants, and art galleries. The people-watching and art-perusing is about as good as it gets, anywhere. For views, climb the Pilgrim Monument, the tallest all-granite structure in the U.S., offering panoramic vistas of the harbor and coastline; at its base, the Provincetown Museum provides a fascinating look into local history. Want nature? Consider a whale watching excursion where you're almost certain to spot humpback, fin, or minke whales in their natural habitat off Stellwagen Bank, or explore the stunning, ever-changing landscape of the Cape Cod National Seashore's dunes with a dune tour. And for beach lovers, Herring Cove Beach and Race Point Beach offer serene beauty, perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean or a peaceful stroll along the shore.

Eat this: Indulge in classic lobster rolls and fresh seafood at the renowned Lobster Pot, a seasonal favorite in town. Enjoy excellent seafood, crispy fish and chips, and Happy Hour dollar oysters at Mac’s Fish House. Crowd favorite Bubala's is a casual bistro right on Commercial Street, where diners can nosh on fresh seafood and get a prime view of the passing street crowds. If you're going to be there late, snag a reservation at the charming and historic Red Inn for great seafood and stunning waterfront views.