Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Waltham, MA
Waltham sits along the Charles River with access to the Waltham Watch Factory, the Charles River Museum, and the Brandeis University.
The Charles River Museum and Brandeis offer industrial and academic heritage near Boston.
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or browse all12 destinations near Waltham
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 5 min from Waltham · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Forty steps - Cliff walk
Newport, RI 02840
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 33 min from Waltham · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lower Falls
Albany, NH 03818
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.6k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 34 min from Waltham · 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 10 min from Waltham · 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 12 min from Waltham
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 37 min from Waltham · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
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 30 min from Waltham · 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 56 min from Waltham · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Rough Point
Newport, RI 02840
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 37 min from Waltham · 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 6 min from Waltham · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Madame Sherri Forest
NH 03466, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 57 min from Waltham · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
World's End
Hingham, MA 02043
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.6k+ visitors) · 52 min from Waltham · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Waltham, MA?
The best day trips from Waltham 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 Waltham?
Most great day trips from Waltham 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 Waltham?
Many of the best day trips near Waltham 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 Waltham?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Waltham, 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 Waltham?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Waltham 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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