8 Amazing Day Trips from Boston

Boston is filled with historic landmarks, artistic spaces, upscale dining, and outdoor activities. If you're eager to explore further, there’s even more to uncover in the surrounding areas.

From battlefields and beaches to colonial sites and artistic havens—plus an abundance of seafood!—there’s much to enjoy just a short distance from Boston, accessible by train, boat, bicycle, or bus.

From Salem to Cape Cod, discover the top day trips from Boston.

1. Catch the ferry to Provincetown, Cape Cod

Travel duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes

At the far tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown boasts a wealth of charm for such a small town—stunning beaches and bike paths winding through the dunes of Cape Cod National Seashore, a lively arts community featuring galleries along Commercial St, and a vibrant LGBTIQ+ atmosphere. Plus, you'll find excellent dining options like Canteen, famous for its lobster rolls and crab paninis.

Getting to Provincetown from Boston: Provincetown lies approximately 115 miles southeast of Boston. For a day trip, the most convenient option is to take a ferry, available through Boston Harbor Cruises (departing from Long Wharf) or Bay State Cruise Co (leaving from the Seaport District).

2. Experience History at Minute Man National Historical Park

Travel duration: 35 minutes

Discover the site where the Revolutionary War ignited on April 19, 1775, as colonial Minutemen confronted British Regulars who had marched from Boston to seize their arms. The two groups initially faced each other on the village green in Lexington (now known as Battle Green) and later at the North Bridge in Concord.

The National Historical Park encompasses the battleground at the North Bridge and the path taken by the soldiers (now referred to as Battle Road). Scenic walking trails meander through the charming New England landscape, passing by two informative visitor centers and several historic structures, where ranger-led talks and musket demonstrations are held. Grab a bite at Via Lago Café in Lexington or visit the Concord Cheese Shop in Concord for a snack.

Getting to Minute Man National Historical Park from Boston: The easiest way is by car, but public transportation is also an option. From South Station in Boston, MBTA commuter trains head to Concord. The North Bridge Visitor Center is 1.5 miles from the train station, but a vehicle is necessary to explore Battle Road. Adventurous travelers can bike from Cambridge to Lexington along the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway (7 miles) and then continue to Concord via Battle Road (another 7 miles).

3. Honor the Victims of the Witch Trials in Salem

Travel duration: 1 hour

Salem boasts a complex history, from the colony’s tragic witch hunts in the 17th century to its flourishing as a maritime hub in the 18th century. Numerous sites commemorate the former, including a poignant Witch Trials Memorial dedicated to the victims.

Visitors can explore the area’s rich maritime heritage at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, which features several 18th-century structures along Derby Wharf. Salem’s crowning jewel is the Peabody Essex Museum, housing an impressive collection of art and artifacts gathered from maritime trade. Don’t forget to stop by Gulu-Gulu Cafe for a pick-me-up.

Getting to Salem from Boston: MBTA commuter trains depart hourly from North Station to Salem. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Long Wharf, operated by Boston Harbor Cruises.

4. Discover the Pilgrims' History in Plymouth

Travel duration: 1 hour

In 1620, a determined group of Pilgrims established the first permanent European settlement in New England at Plymouth. Tour the replica Mayflower II to envision their challenging journey across the Atlantic. Afterwards, visit Plimoth Patuxet Museums to immerse yourself in the life of the Pilgrims and the Native people who have inhabited the area for over 10,000 years.

Both locations serve as historically accurate 'living' museums, featuring costumed actors who bring real historical figures to life. Along Plymouth’s main street, you’ll find many great spots for lunch, including KKatie’s Burger Bar.

Getting to Plymouth from Boston: MBTA commuter trains run from South Station in Boston.

5. Appreciate the Architecture in Providence

Travel duration: 35 minutes

Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island, resembles a smaller version of Boston, featuring charming, walkable neighborhoods, stunning 18th-century buildings, a vibrant and artistic student community, and its own picturesque Ivy League campus.

The culinary scene here is vibrant, partly thanks to the nearby world-renowned culinary school, Johnson & Wales, ensuring a great meal is always nearby. For lunch or brunch, don’t miss Julian’s. During summer evenings, the riverside Waterplace Park bursts into life with street performers, art vendors, food trucks, and the mesmerizing flames of WaterFire, a non-profit arts initiative.

Traveling to Providence from Boston: MBTA commuter trains depart from South Station to Providence. Amtrak offers a faster, though pricier, alternative.

6. Visit Cape Ann for seafood, sandy shores, and whale watching

Travel time: 1 hour by car, 2 hours 30 minutes by public transport

Welcome to 'the other Cape,' nestled along Massachusetts' North Shore. The vibrant heart of Cape Ann is Gloucester, a rugged fishing town boasting a lively art community at Rocky Neck and exciting whale-watching tours to Stellwagen Bank.

Gloucester’s charming and tourist-friendly neighbor is Rockport, featuring the iconic Motif No 1 and a variety of souvenir shops along Bearskin Neck. The rest of Cape Ann offers a stunning mix of picturesque coastal beaches and scenic walking trails. Savor fresh seafood at Causeway Restaurant in Gloucester or Roy Moore Lobster Co in Rockport.

Getting to Cape Ann from Boston: The MBTA commuter rail departs from North Station to both Gloucester and Rockport. The Cape Ann Transportation Authority runs five bus routes connecting various beaches and villages in the area.

7. Swim, hike, and explore the Boston Harbor Islands

Travel time: 50 minutes

Boston Harbor is home to around 34 islands, forming a distinct state park that’s just a short trip from the city. You can explore Georges Island, which features the historic Fort Warren from the Civil War era, or visit Spectacle Island, known for its supervised swimming beach and stunning lookout points.

For a more adventurous outing, venture to the more secluded islands where you can enjoy hiking trails, bird-watching, fishing, and swimming. While both Georges and Spectacle have snack shacks, the outer islands lack food and water, so it's best to bring a picnic.

Getting to Boston Harbor Islands from Boston: Seasonal ferry service is provided by Boston Harbor Cruises from Long Wharf to Georges and Spectacle Islands, with additional boat services available to the outer islands.

8. Find tranquility away from commercialism at Martha's Vineyard

Travel time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Enveloped in distinctive charm, Martha's Vineyard draws in wide-eyed visitors, celebrity homeowners, and city dwellers in search of a serene escape. Among its 15,000 year-round residents are numerous artists, musicians, and nature enthusiasts.

Located just 7 miles off Cape Cod's coast, Martha's Vineyard remains free from the rampant commercialization often seen on the mainland—there are no chain restaurants or cookie-cutter motels here. Instead, you’ll find quaint inns, chef-inspired dining, and an abundance of lush farms and stunning beaches. Savor fine dining in the upscale Edgartown or enjoy the nostalgic charm of cotton candy and carousels in Oak Bluffs.

How to reach Martha's Vineyard from Boston: The journey begins with about a 90-minute drive from Boston to Woods Hole, followed by a 45-minute car ferry ride to the island.