The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Massachusetts
You don’t have to use up your vacation days to make some amazing memories in Massachusetts. There are plenty of great experiences to be had that are perfect for a weekend day trip. Whether you’re looking to get out into nature, go on a delicious chocolate adventure or even relax in an enchanting crystal cave, there’s something for everyone on this list. Here are 11 of the best day trips in Massachusetts.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
1. Kimball Farm, Westford (additional locations in Lancaster and Carlisle)
This may be the most entertaining farm in Massachusetts. Kimball Farm is a working farm, but it also is home to awesome activities like mini golf, bumper cars, animal adventures, bumper boats, pony rides and a zip line. Of course, don't forget to try their amazing homemade ice cream and browse the wares at the old-fashioned country store. Learn more on the official website of Kimball Farm.
The Four Elements Salon in Westport is a relaxing destination unlike any other in the state. At this spa, you'll be taken into an incredible salt cave made of glittering pink crystal and glowing with soft, otherworldly light. The healthy benefits of salt therapy are said to include everything from relieving asthma, allergies, and symptoms of some skin conditions. Either way, it's an absolutely dreamy place to unwind. Here's the official website of Four Elements Salon.
The Three Sisters Sanctuary is a collection of unique sculpture gardens and art installations that will make you feel like you've stumbled into a dream. The sanctuary is filled with incredible life-size sculptures of fairies, beautiful blooms, and even a zany antique shop. Visit the official website of The Three Sisters Sanctuary.
Chocolate-lovers, rejoice! This day trip destination is all about the sweet stuff. Head to Somerville and tour the Taza Chocolate factory, where delicious chocolate is made using ancient techniques. You'll get to see the chocolate-making process in action and stuff yourself with delicious free samples. For the latest information, head over to the official website of Taza Chocolate.
This town is definitely one of the coolest in the state. With its legendary farmers markets, quirky atmosphere, historic architecture and fun events like antique car shows and city-wide beach parties, a day trip to the town of North Adams will keep you entertained for hours. Check out the official website of Explore North Adams.
This day trip is perfect for animal lovers. Wolf Hollow is a wolf sanctuary that teaches visitors about these beautiful animals and offers them the opportunity to get an up-close look at the wolves while remaining totally safe. It's a unique experience that is totally unlike visiting a zoo. Learn more on the official website of Wolf Hollow.
Moore State Park in Paxton is an enchanting natural haven that offers gorgeous waterfalls, historic sites, and a lush environment. You'll be able to explore 400 acres of meadows, wildflower fields, and shady woodlands, not to mention the stone mill with its picture-perfect bubbling waterfall. Stop by in the spring to see the park's azaleas and mountain laurel in full blooms. Visit the official website of Moore State Park.
This charming winery in the heart of the Berkshires is actually a great day trip destination for all ages. The 200-acre property is mostly historic preserved farmland and features lush apple orchards, beautiful woodland trails, and hayrides in the fall. Vino-lovers can sample their delicious wines in a free tasting, or try the special honey mead and hard cider. Visitors who aren't interested in drinking can enjoy homemade pastries and artisan cheeses. Check out the official website of Hilltop Orchards & Furnace Brook Winery.
Ramblewild’s Tree-to-Tree Adventure Park in Lanesborough is actually an amazing day trip option for all ages. Kids as young as seven can participate in this canopy walk through the forest or an exciting aerial ropes course. All visitors are securely harnessed and buckled (read: you will absolutely not fall) before taking to the trees with the help of experienced guides. You don't have to have any prior experience, and it's an amazing way to see the forest from above. Learn more on the official website of Ramblewild.
If you're a bargain-hunter by nature, this place is basically heaven. The Raynham Flea Market offers over 500 vendors in a massive indoor and outdoor marketplace that puts most other flea markets to shame. You'll find everything from retro decor, ancient antiques, and locally-made products here. Plan on staying for at least a few hours if you want to see everything for sale. Here's the official website of Raynham Flea Market.
There's more to do on the Vineyard than lounge at the beach. Check out this amazing community of colorful Victorian gingerbread cottages that feels like something from a storybook. There are over 300 whimsical homes in this village, and they are all uniquely decorated. Many date from the 1860s and offer occasional tours.
More info and directions
Do you agree that these are some of the best day trips in Massachusetts? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments! For more Massachusetts day trip fun, check out these awesome Massachusetts day trips that you can take by train.
Address: 400 Littleton Rd, Westford, MA 01886, USA
Address: 632 State Rd, Westport, MA 02790, USA
Address: 188 Cape St, Goshen, MA 01032, USA
Address: 561 Windsor St, Somerville, MA 02143, USA
Address: North Adams, MA 01247, USA
Address: Ipswich, MA 01938, USA
Address: 1 Sawmill Rd, Paxton, MA 01612, USA
Address: 508 Canaan Rd, Richmond, MA 01254, USA
Address: 110 Brodie Mountain Rd, Lanesborough, MA 01237, USA
Address: 480 S St W, Raynham, MA 02767, USA
Address: 80 Trinity Park, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best day trips in massachusetts
October 15, 2020
Beth Price-Williams
What are the best day trips in Massachusetts?
Even if you don’t have time for a vacation, you’ll discover a ton of quick getaways in Massachusetts, including day trips. Did you know, for example, that you can day trip (or turn it into an overnighter) to five covered bridges in the state? The day trip will take you to Tannery Bridge in Sandisfield and Sheffield Covered Bridge in Sheffield. Pair wine with waterfalls on the wine and waterfalls day trip in Massachusetts. You’ll travel to such waterfalls as Doane’s Falls in Royalston and Trap Falls in Ashby.
What are the best road trips through Massachusetts?
Road trips in Massachusetts are popular and for good reason. A road trip can give us the opportunity to explore places we’ve never been. Fans of architecture and castles might want to hit the road on the road trip to Massachusetts’ most majestic fairy tale castles. The road trip includes stops at Hammond Castle in Gloucester and Searles Castle in Great Barrington. If you’re a fan of the paranormal, hit the highway on the most haunted road trip in Massachusetts. Increase your chances of experiencing the paranormal with visits to the USS Salem in Quincy, Danvers State Mental Hospital, and Hoosac Tunnel in North Adams.
Which hidden gems in Massachusetts should I visit?
Some of the best things to do in Massachusetts will take you to its most treasured hidden gems. If you’re in Boston, carve out time to visit The Mapparium. Perhaps one of the most unique destinations in all of Massachusetts, the Mapparium is a three-story tall globe that you can walk inside. It’s made of stained glass. Robbins Farm Park in Arlington is the ideal destination if you have kids. The park features slides that are built right into the hillside. Stockbridge General Store in Stockbridge, on the other hand, will certainly give you a rush of nostalgia.
