Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Amherst, MA
Amherst sits in the Pioneer Valley with access to the UMass Amherst, the Emily Dickinson House, and the Norwottuck Rail Trail.
The Emily Dickinson House and the Norwottuck Rail Trail offer literary and cycling heritage.
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or browse all12 destinations near Amherst
Mammoth Falls
Southington, CT 06489
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.9 stars) · 1 hr 18 min from Amherst · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Pollard Mill Falls
Newport, NH 03773
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 45 min from Amherst · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Franconia Notch State Park
Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 7.7k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 57 min from Amherst · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
VINS Nature Center
Quechee, VT 05059
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 46 min from Amherst · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
Woodstock, VT 05091
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 48 min from Amherst · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Power Dam Recreation Area
Perkinsville, VT 05151
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · well rated (4.7 stars) · 1 hr 34 min from Amherst · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Buttermilk Falls
Ludlow, VT 05149
Why this destination?
Recommended because: highly rated (4.7 by 0.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 41 min from Amherst
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
The Mark Twain House & Museum
Hartford, CT 06105
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 3.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr from Amherst · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Quechee Gorge Bridge
White River Junction, VT 05001
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 46 min from Amherst · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Madame Sherri Forest
NH 03466, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 54 min from Amherst · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Spodie Rock
Hartland, VT 05048
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.6 stars) · 1 hr 42 min from Amherst · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Mill Pond Falls Viewing Spot
Quechee, VT 05059
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.6 stars) · 1 hr 44 min from Amherst · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Amherst, MA?
The best day trips from Amherst include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Amherst?
Most great day trips from Amherst are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Amherst?
Many of the best day trips near Amherst are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Amherst?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Amherst, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Amherst?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Amherst make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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