Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Boston, MA
Boston is surrounded by New England's finest scenery — from coastal towns and island escapes to mountain trails and historic villages.
The Cape, White Mountains, and coastal Maine are all essential New England experiences.
Browse by Drive Time
Popular Interests
or browse all12 destinations near Boston
Forty steps - Cliff walk
Newport, RI 02840
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 27 min from Boston · 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 2 min from Boston · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
Middletown, RI 02842
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 23 min from Boston · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook
Aquinnah, MA 02535
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.6k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 48 min from Boston · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Abenaki Tower
Melvin Village, NH 03850
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 5 min from Boston · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Brook Walk (Waterfalls) – Castle In The Clouds Conservation Area
Moultonborough, NH 03254
Why this destination?
Recommended because: highly rated (4.8 by 0.1k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 8 min from Boston
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
Albany, NH 03818
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.3k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 32 min from Boston · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Weetamoo Woods & Pardon Gray Preserve
Tiverton, RI 02878
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 10 min from Boston · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Bowen's Wharf
Bowens Wharf, Newport
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Food & Wine destination · highly rated (4.7 by 2.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 25 min from Boston · fits $25 - $75 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round, but harvest season (Sep-Oct) is peak for wineries and farm-to-table.
Rough Point
Newport, RI 02840
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 30 min from Boston · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Sculptured Rocks Natural Area
Hebron, NH 03241
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 3 min from Boston · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Periwinkle Cove
Rye, NH 03870
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 9 min from Boston · 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 Boston, MA?
The best day trips from Boston 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 Boston?
Most great day trips from Boston 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 Boston?
Many of the best day trips near Boston 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 Boston?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Boston, 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 Boston?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Boston 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.
Plan Your Stay
We may earn a commission when you book through these links.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me