Posted in Boston
April 01, 2018
The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take From Boston
Boston has so many attractions and events that you never actually need to leave the city. That being said, the towns and scenery surrounding us are so appealing that you’ll probably be tempted to take some day trips. With so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled some of the very best day trips you can take from Boston. From castles to secret gardens, these 11 spots more than justify the journey:
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

To truly feel like you’ve gotten away from an urban environment, check out this tiny town surrounded by gorgeous scenery. Explore wooded hiking trails, admire the town’s waterfalls – yes, plural – or go kayaking. For tranquility and adventure, this is the place to go.

This Medieval-style castle in Gloucester was once home to a delightfully eccentric inventor who collected all manner of curiosities – including Roman tombstones. His home is no less unique and features a library with a whispering ceiling, a dramatic inner courtyard, and a secret passageway.

Attractions abound in Fall River, where you can spend a day clambering around historic naval vessels, touring the Lizzie Borden House, and dining on Portuguese food.

Hiding away in Framingham is a whimsical 45-acre garden, complete with a turtle pond, playful sculptures, and wooded pathways just begging to be explored.

People often associate Salem with October – a month full of crowds and wackiness. However, during the rest of the year, this North Shore town is an ideal destination for anyone interested in mindful living and delectable cuisine. It’s brimming with coastal charm and culture.

Calling all foodies! This seaside town has far more than its share of scrumptious eateries, including a French patisserie, quaint breakfast joints, and beloved Italian restaurants.

Fancy a day of strolling and shopping? Then head to Newburyport, where red brick buildings have been converted into charming stores – many filled with antiques. Once you’ve browsed (or loaded up on loot), walk through the scenic Maudslay State Park, then cap off your visit with a stop at the Newburyport Brewing Company.

Let stress slip away at Alicante Restaurant and Lounge. This Spanish tapas and Italian restaurant dishes up food alluring enough to justify the drive out to Mendon. As for the lakefront views? Consider them the icing on a very yummy cake!

Nahant is only a quick trip north of Boston, but with its slow pace of life and long stretches of beach, it feels much farther afield. For a lazy day at the beach, this small town is both convenient and pretty.

Essex offers clams, cruises, and antiques galore – not necessarily in that order. There’s plenty to do in this seemingly sleepy town and the marshy landscape is a surprisingly beautiful bonus.

The end of the world might sound like a long way to go on a day trip but this 251-acre reservation is located in Hingham. Carriage roads designed by Frederick Law Olmsted steer visitors through this green space, across drumlins that afford distant views of Boston’s skyline.
What’s the best day trip that you’ve ever taken from Boston? Let us know in the comments.