Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from New Bedford, MA
New Bedford sits on Buzzards Bay with access to the New Bedford Whaling Museum, the Seamen's Bethel, and the Fort Taber.
The Whaling Museum and the Seamen's Bethel offer maritime heritage near the coast.
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or browse all12 destinations near New Bedford
Real Pirates Salem
285 Derby St #5, Salem
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.9 by 2.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 37 min from New Bedford · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Mass Audubon's Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Topsfield, MA 01983
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.9 by 1.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 35 min from New Bedford · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Long Hill
Beverly, MA 01915
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 34 min from New Bedford · 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 15 min from New Bedford · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Breakers
Newport, RI 02840
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 10.4k+ visitors) · 51 min from New Bedford · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
International Monster Museum
1 Church St, Salem
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 37 min from New Bedford · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Fort Pickering
Salem, MA 01970
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 42 min from New Bedford · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Count Orlok's Nightmare Gallery Monster Museum
Salem, MA 01970
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.6 by 1.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 35 min from New Bedford · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Dow Brook Conservation Area Trailhead
Ipswich, MA 01938
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · well rated (4.6 stars) · 1 hr 42 min from New Bedford · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Professor Spindlewink's World of Wizardry
Salem, MA 01970
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.5 by 0.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 35 min from New Bedford · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Witch House at Salem
Salem, MA 01970
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · well rated (4.4 stars) · 1 hr 34 min from New Bedford · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Salem Witch Village and the Lost Library
Salem, MA 01970
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · well rated (4.2 stars) · 1 hr 38 min from New Bedford · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from New Bedford, MA?
The best day trips from New Bedford 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 New Bedford?
Most great day trips from New Bedford 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 New Bedford?
Many of the best day trips near New Bedford 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 New Bedford?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near New Bedford, 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 New Bedford?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of New Bedford 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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