day trip ideas new england

New England Wanderlust

Cape Cod , Connecticut , Maine , Martha's Vineyard , Massachusetts , Nantucket , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont  ·  January 14, 2023

35 Fun Day Trips In New England To Take In 2024

Between gorgeous, historic cities to some of the most stunning coastline the U.S. has to offer, New England offers an incredible variety of day trip destinations for pretty much anyone. Whether you’re looking to tackle some epic hikes in the mountains, spend the day by the beach, get lost on cobblestone streets or spend your day eating all the amazing food, I’ve got you covered with my suggestions on the absolute best day trips in New England!

Hi there, and welcome! I’ve been exploring the New England region for over 15 years now, and I also live locally in the northeast. My favorite thing in the world is to explore this corner of the U.S., and I’ve covered a lot of ground over the years. I truly believe that all of the places I’ve included on this list are worth your time, and are easy to navigate with just one day.

I’ve also grouped each destination by season, but it’s good to know that pretty much all of these suggestions are wonderful year-round . In fact, it was really hard to group some of them into a specific season because many of them offers incredible things to do year-round. So, while I’ve made some seasonal suggestions, keep in mind that most places are truly perfect throughout the entire year.

Are you ready? Let’s get started!

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Best Day Trips In New England In The Summer

1. provincetown, ma.

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Plymouth, other towns on Cape Cod, Massachusetts North & South Shore.

One of the most unique towns in the entire U.S. is Provincetown, and because it’s small and easily walkable, it makes for a perfect day trip in New England.

Provincetown is an especially easy day trip for those coming from Boston and Plymouth, as there are ferries that will take you right to MacMillan Pier in downtown Provincetown. Both ferry options only take 90 minutes, making them very convenient options.

🛳 Click here to check out the ferry from Boston to Provincetown!

🛳 Click here to checkout the ferry from Plymouth to Provincetown!

During the summer season, a free shuttle takes visitors from MacMillan Pier to Race Point and Herring Cove beaches, which are two of the most beautiful beaches on Cape Cod. And once you’re in Ptown (as the locals call it!), you can easily walk everywhere.

Top things to check out in Provincetown:

• The Cape Cod National Seashore
• Commercial Street
• Lobster Pot restaurant
• Pilgrim Monument
• The real pilgrim landing site
• Beautiful art galleries

→ Click here to read my full guide on even more awesome things to do in Provincetown!

2. Nantucket, MA

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod

One of the best day trips from Cape Cod is Nantucket Island, and I also think it’s one of the best places to see in all of New England . Filled with picturesque coastal scenery around every turn, I always describe Nantucket as both modern and stuck in time. Between the historic homes and cobblestone streets, breathtaking beaches and the most charming downtown boutiques, it’s the perfect way to spend a day when in the area.

→ Click here to read my guide on everything you need to know about a Nantucket day trip!

3. Martha’s Vineyard

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod, Boston , New Bedford

Martha’s Vineyard is the other Cape Cod island that’s popular for summer vacations and day trips, and for good reason! It’s a bit bigger than Nantucket, but the ferry ride over from Cape Cod is shorter. And with 6 gorgeous towns to explore, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun on a day trip.

While there is no direct ferry from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard, there is a day tour that you can book that will take care of all the transportation for you! This is a great way to plan a summer escape from the city without having to drive yourself.

🚐 Click here to book your Boston to Martha’s Vineyard tour!

Here are some other Martha’s Vineyard posts you may find helpful :

• The Ultimate Guide To A Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip!
• Is Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket Better For A Day Trip?
• How To See Martha’s Vineyard Without A Car
• Best Things To Do On Martha’s Vineyard

4. Block Island, RI

Best as a day trip from: Newport, Boston, Providence and surrounding Rhode Island areas

As much as I love Cape Cod and the Islands, I think Block Island is such a special place and deserves more hype. This little island sits off the coast of Point Judith, RI, and is a short 30-60 minute ferry from there, making this a very easy day trip from the Ocean State!

And one of the amazing things about this little island is that all the beaches are completely free for all visitors, which is a rare thing in New England. In addition to that, there are some really wonderful restaurants, a cute downtown and some gorgeous sites to see.

→ Click here to read my full guide on taking a Block Island day trip!

5. Newport, RI

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Providence and surrounding areas

Nicknamed The City By The Sea, Newport feels more like a charming coastal town than a vibrant city. Packed with history, stunning Gilded Age mansions, character, beautiful coastline views, beaches, and an exciting culinary scene, there are so many fun things to do there that make for a perfect day trip in New England.

The biggest tip I have for you about Newport in the summer is that it can get busy, which means parking can sometimes be challenging. I highly recommend that you park and leave your car for the entire day, rather than trying to drive everywhere. Newport is pretty walkable, but a great option is taking a trolley tour so you can see the major sites in a short amount of time.

This particular tour also includes admission to The Breakers Mansion, which is one of the top things to see in Newport: → Click here to check out the trolley & Breakers Mansion tour in Newport

Newport also offers amazing tours out on the water! A great way to end your day trip is with a sunset cruise, and this is an awesome one to consider: → Click here to check out this sunset cruise in Newport!

→ Click here to read my full guide on a Newport day trip!

6. Westerly, RI

Best as a day trip from: Newport, Boston, Providence and surrounding areas

Westerly is one of the best beach towns in Rhode Island for a summer vacation or day trip! With miles of gorgeous shoreline to explore across several stunning beaches, this is the perfect place to spend a hot summer day.

And not only are the beaches absolutely beautiful, there’s also a charming downtown with awesome restaurants and shops to explore. Westerly is also home to the charming village of Watch Hill, which is where you’ll find a lighthouse, the iconic Ocean House resort, Napatree Point (pictured above!) and lots of beautiful scenery.

Here are some other great things to check out in Westerly:

• Misquamicut State Beach – the best public beach in town!
• Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery
• Grey Sail Brewing
• Sailing tour with Sail Trim Again

Tips for visiting Watch Hill in Westerly : Parking here in tough during high season (summer) and on weekends. The free parking spots are limited to 2 hours, so if you plan to dine anywhere, or spend time at the beaches, you’ll want to arrange for paid parking in one of the lots. Parking around the rest of Westerly isn’t as big of an issue.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Westerly, RI & Watch Hill!

7. Kennebunkport, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Massachusetts North Shore, Boston

Honestly, Kennebunkport is an amazing coastal destination year-round because they really know how to celebrate what’s special about each season. In fact, their Christmas events have put this cute little community on the map as one of the best Christmas towns in the U.S.! But the summer is definitely one of the most popular season to experience Kennebunkport.

This town really has it all – lovely stores and restaurants, a quaint downtown, New England charm, dramatic coastline and gorgeous beaches. Here are a few wonderful things to do on a Kennebunkport day trip:

• Walk Parson’s Way for amazing coastal views (and see the famous Bush compound!)
• Walk through the shops at Dock Square.
• Visit the beaches (Gooch’s, Mother’s and Goose Rocks).
• Get a lobster roll from The Clam Shack.
• Take a lobster boat tour with Rugosa.

8. Ogunquit, ME

Another charming town that’s perfect for enjoying a summer day in Maine is Ogunquit. This destination is home to one of the best beaches in Maine – Ogunquit Beach, which has 3 miles of beautiful, soft, sandy shoreline to enjoy.

In addition to the beach, you’ll find an incredibly charming town with great shops and restaurants, and one of my absolute favorite things to do in all of Maine – Marginal Way, which is a gorgeous pedestrian path along the coastline.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Ogunquit!

9. Boothbay Harbor, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland and surrounding areas.

Located between Portland and Acadia National Park, you’ll find the adorable town of Boothbay Harbor. While this destination is great during spring, summer and fall, summer is one of the best times to visit because all the seasonal restaurants and boat tours will be open, allowing you to get the full experience during your trip.

One of the reasons I love Boothbay Harbor so much is because of all the amazing options available for boat tours. Boats here go a bit further north than tours that depart from Portland, so you’ll get to see some more remote parts of the coastline, lighthouses and incredible wildlife. They even offer tours to see a puffin colony!

One of the coolest tours to take during a day trip is the Seals, Lighthouses & Lobster Trap tour , which offers so many great things to see in just 1.5 hours. During the cruise, you’re also likely to spot some seals in the water, and watch a real lobster trap haul.

→ Click here to check rates & availability for the Seals, Lighthouses & Lobster Trap Tour

Psst! I have a detailed guide on the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor , if you need more ideas for your day trip 😉

10. Lubec, ME

Best as a day trip from: Bar Harbor, Bangor

Okay, so Lubec is a bit more challenging as a day trip because it’s so remote, and pretty close to the Canadian border, but I wanted to include it on this list for anyone looking for an amazing day trip option that’s a bit of a hidden gem.

Lubec offers absolutely stunning opportunities for hiking and coastline views, and is also home to the famous red and white striped lighthouse, West Quoddy Light. I also love that it’s a quaint and quiet little fishing village that not many people visit. The actual village itself doesn’t have a ton to do, but I think the landscapes and hiking here are more than worth the effort to visit.

A few things that are a must for a day trip:

• Explore West Quoddy State Park to see the lighthouse and do some of the walking trails.
• Hike the Boot Head Preserve trail.
• Taste the local beer at Lubec Brewing Company.
• Take a boat tour to Old Sow Whirlpool.

→ Click here to read my full guide on even more things to do in Lubec!

11. Mystic, CT

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Newport, Providence

One of the most charming towns along the Connecticut coast is Mystic, made famous, of course, by the movie Mystic Pizza . Mystic makes for a wonderful day trip in the area because it’s small and walkable, offers boat tours along the river and is close to the Connecticut Wine Trail, which is incredibly fun and scenic!

One of the top things to do in Mystic is the Mystic Seaport Museum , which is a highly interactive museum that’s built to replicate a historic New England ship yard and town. You can climb aboard historic tall ships and admire the views of the river while learning about its incredible history. This is actually a really fun way to spend a few hours in Mystic (and I’m not usually a museum person!).

→ Click here to get your ticket to the Mystic Seaport Museum

Psst! I have an entire guide on the best things to do in Mystic, CT if you’re looking for more ideas 😉

12. Manchester, VT

Best as a day trip from: The Berkshires, Northwestern Massachusetts, surrounding areas in Vermont

While Vermont is known as a top fall and winter destination in New England, I especially love to visit Manchester in the summer. Located in southern Vermont, this cute little town is home to some really fun ways to cool down on hot summer days, including swimming in a rock quarry and floating down a river in an inner tube.

The Dorset Marble Quarry is just a few minutes from downtown Manchester, and is a really cool and unique place to go for a swim. And with Vermont River Runners , you can rent an inner tube and float down the Battenkill River. They’ll even pick you up at the end do you don’t have to worry about getting back to your car!

Once you’re done splashing in the water, you can also explore the cute little downtown, which has some lovely shops and eateries, and maybe even visit Hildene , which is a former Lincoln family home, and boasts stunning garden displays and mountain views.

13. Shelburne Falls, MA

This small little town nestled in The Berkshires has been made famous by its No. 1 attraction – the Bridge of Flowers. And honestly? It’s worth the type.

Once an old trolley bridge that became obsolete is now a beautiful and cheerful display of colorful flowers from spring to fall. But in the summer, you’ll find the most blooms to enjoy during your visit.

Shelbune Falls also has a Trolley Museum, brewery and one of the oldest bowling alleys in the country, so you’ll definitely be able to fill your day trip with cool things to do.

14. Gloucester, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Portland, Massachusetts North Shore, Plymouth

Gloucester is another destination that’s really great to visit in spring, summer and fall, but since it’s home to one of the best beaches along the North Shore, it makes for an especially wonderful day trip in New England in the summer months.

Wingaersheek Beach is a beautiful spot for swimming, and makes for an awesome escape from city life in Boston and Portland. You can easily spend your entire day just at the beach, as it has a snack shack, and provides a beautiful sunset.

Gloucester is also one of the best locations in the Northeast for whale watching! Tours from Gloucester cruise to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is regarded as the best spot in New England for spotting wildlife.

→ Click here to book your whale watch in Gloucester!

Gloucester is also home to a beautiful lighthouse, wonderful downtown with shops and amazing restaurants, and a waterfront park to explore.

Best New England Day Trips In The Fall

15. bar harbor/acadia national park.

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Bangor

While Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor can be challenging to do as a day trip because of their location, it’s absolutely worth the effort! Acadia National Park, especially, is one of the best things to see in all of New England, so even a day spent here is better than not seeing it at all. And during the fall season, you’ll experience better temperatures for hiking, as well as stunning fall foliage.

But honestly, spring and summer are equally as great, so it’s really personal preference on when you plan your day trip!

Psst! I have a full Acadia National Park itinerary , which includes a bonus day trip itinerary option, and a guide on the best time to visit Acadia National Park , which you may find helpful 😉

16. Springfield, MA For The Big E Fair

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Providence, Newport, Mystic

One of the best days trips to take to celebrate the end of summer and beginning of fall is Springfield, so you can attend The Big E, which is the biggest fair in New England!

All 6 of the New England states take part in this fair, and between the awesome fair and regional foods, rides, shopping, exhibitions, live performances and so much more, it really is the quintessential fair experience. Many people come from all over the region to attend, so you know it must be good.

17. Salem, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Massachusetts North & South Shore, Providence, Plymouth

Salem is regarded as one of the top Halloween destinations in the entire world, so it rarely needs an introduction. But I can honestly say that it really is such a fun place to experience during the month of October. And because it’s smaller than most people realize, it’s actually very easy to explore in a day.

Since Salem is about all things spooky, I highly suggest getting into the spirit and doing a spooky tour of some sort. There are so many tours offered in Salem that talk about everything from the fascinating history, to Hocus Pocus filing locations to all the very creepy ghost sightings.

A great tour that’s perfect for most people is this History & Hauntings Tour, which talks about the history with a few spooky facts thrown in for good measure : → Click here to book the History & Hauntings Tour in Salem!

Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip , and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information 😉

18. Plymouth, MA

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod, Boston, Massachusetts South & North Shore, Providence, Newport

Plymouth is one of the oldest towns in the entire U.S., so of course, it’s absolutely worth a day trip if in the area! And while it’s known for its history, it’s also home to some beautiful parks and a cute downtown.

The reason I love Plymouth for a day trip in the fall is because there’s something about this area that reminds me so much of “back to school,” and it also does a fantastic job celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday, of course! It’s also one of the last parts of New England to hit peak fall foliage, so if you’re looking for a foliage destination in early November, Plymouth is perfect for that timeframe!

However, Plymouth is, of course, wonderful year-round, too 😊

The top attraction in Plymouth is the Plimoth Patuxet Museum, which immerses visitors into the life of the early settlers. You can even climb aboard the Mayflower II, which is a working replica of the original Mayflower! → Click here to get your tickets to the Plimoth Patuxet Museums!

In addition to the museums, some other great things to check out in Plymouth are:

• Mirbeau Spa
• The shops and eateries downtown
• Brewster Gardens
• Pilgrim Memorial State Park
• Plymouth Bay Winery
• Plymouth Long Beach

Psst! I have an entire post on visiting Plymouth, MA , if you need more ideas for your day trip!

19. Marblehead, MA

Along the Massachusetts North Shore is the beautiful town of Marblehead, which is really great to visit in both summer and fall. But fall is an especially beautiful time to visit because of the stunning foliage displays, of course.

While walking around to enjoy the foliage, you’ll also want to be sure to visit the charming shops in the historic district, enjoy the coastal views from Castle Rock Park, take a walk on Devereux Beach and admire the gorgeous, historic New England homes.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Marblehead!

20. Newburyport, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Portland, Massachusetts North & South Shore

Newburyport is another destination that’s truly wonderful year-round, but I especially love it in the fall because of all the fall color. This is also one of my top places to visit for shopping, and even Boston Magazine named Tannery Marketplace in Newburyport one of the best places for shopping on the North Shore.

Newburyport is also pretty small, and the downtown area is very walkable, making this a perfect day trip option. It’s also home to Plum Island, which has beautiful beaches, as well as the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which has gorgeous nature trails to explore.

Here are a few awesome things to do on a Newburyport day trip:

• Stroll along the waterfront park.
• Explore all the amazing shops in Market Square and Tannery Marketplace.
• Visit Maudslay State Park.
• Drive to Plum Island to see the beaches, and hit the scenic trails in the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.

→ Click here to read my full guide on visiting Newburyport!

21. The Berkshires

Best as a day trip from: Northwestern Massachusetts, surrounding Vermont areas

During the fall season, The Berkshires puts on a beautiful foliage display, and this is one of the most cozy places to be this time of the year. Between all the amazing hiking opportunities, quaint towns and gorgeous mountain landscapes, it also makes for a fun and adventurous day trip in Massachusetts.

The Berkshires is actually made up of 31 towns and 2 cities, so it’s a pretty big area to tackle in a day trip, but that just means you have a lot of exciting activities to choose from. Here are a few awesome things to consider for a fall day trip to The Berkshires:

• Go seasonal beer and hard cider tasting (there are tons of options!).
• Admire the foliage during a ziplining tour with Berkshire East Mountain Resort.
• Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Greylock for amazing fall foliage views.
• Pick apples, hike and sample the local wine at Hilltop Orchards.

22. Woodstock, VT

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding Vermont areas , White Mountains

One of the top fall foliage destinations in the entire U.S. is Vermont, and Woodstock is one of the most charming and picturesque towns to experience. In Woodstock, not only will you get the enjoy the foliage that Vermont is famous, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie set when you arrive to the cute little town.

Woodstock’s village is about as perfect as can be with beautiful boutiques and quaint restaurants. In the center of town, there’s even a covered bridge!

But just outside of the village, you’ll find Billings Farm & Museum, which is regarded as one of the best interactive agricultural museums in the country. You can also visit Sugarbush Farms to sample their own maple syrups and cheeses, and enjoy stunning mountain views dripping in fall color.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Woodstock!

23. Burlington, VT

Another wonderful day trip in Vermont in the fall season is Burlington. As the largest city in the state, it has a lot to offer including the beautiful Lake Champlain, amazing restaurants, art galleries, breweries and so much more.

In fact, one of the most fun things to do in Burlington on a day trip is dive into the local brewing scene with a tour!

Vermont produces some of the top beers in the country, and this tour is led by a local expert that gives you all the insider tips, and allows you to sample up to 12 different beers. This time of the year, there are likely to be seasonal beers available, too. → Click here to book your brewery tour in Burlington!

You’ll also want to be sure to walk the waterfront path along Lake Champlain for beautiful fall foliage views, and hit up Church Street Marketplace to enjoy the local shops.

24. Littleton, NH

Best as a day trip from: Vermont, surrounding New Hampshire areas

One of my personal favorite towns in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire is Littleton. Not only has it been named of the best Main Streets in the entire country, it’s home to a charming little community with awesome shops, restaurants, a brewery, and the world’s largest candy counter (it’s true!).

And since it’s only about 20 minutes from some of the top fall foliage sites in Franconia Notch State Park (like Flume Gorge and Echo Lake), this is the perfect day trip to take while exploring the area.

→ Click here to read my full guide on all the best things to do in Littleton .

25. Montpelier, VT

Montpelier is Vermont’s capital, and I think it’s a very underrated destination in the area. The cool thing about Montpelier is that it’s a city that feels like both a city and a quaint town at the same time, so exploring for the day is very easy to do. And during the fall season, there are a lot of fun seasonal activities you can enjoy.

Here are a few things you should look into for a Montpelier day trip in the fall:

• The annual Enchanted Forest Celebration in October.
• Visit Peck Farm Orchard to pick apples, get some cider donuts and sample their hard cider.
• Stroll through town to visit the boutiques and eateries.
• Head to Hubbard Park to enjoy the fall foliage.
• Drive to nearby Groton State Forest to tackle some fall foliage hikes.

26. Litchfield Hill, CT

Best as a day trip from: Mystic, The Berkshires, New Haven, Hartford

Fun fact: Amy Sherman Palladino based Stars Hollow on a few towns in the Litchfield Hills area of Connecticut, so this is one of the best New England day trips for Gilmore Girls fans. It’s said that Washington Depot was her main inspiration, but many have claimed that New Milford’s town green feels most like a Stars Hollow set.

But even if you know nothing about Gilmore Girls , this is an incredibly stunning area to visit for a day trip, especially in the fall. You’ll find covered bridges, scenic drives, cozy restaurants, quaint towns and state parks that will be ablaze with foliage color this time of the year. And since all the small towns are pretty close to one another, you can easily see most of them in one day trip.

The towns in Litchfield county also have tons of fun fall festivals and events that take place through September and October, and those are worth checking out.

Here are some awesome ideas for the perfect fall day trip to the Litchfield Hills:

• Explore the charming town of Kent, including Bull’s Covered Bridge and Kent Falls State Park.
• Drive the scenic Route 7 to New Milford to enjoy the town green, and take in stunning foliage views from Lovers Leap State Park.
• Enjoy the picturesque town of Washington Depot, and sample the local wines at Hopkins Vineyard.
• Drive to Litchfield and enjoy getting lost in the Bunnell Farm corn maze, and explore the cute town.

Best New England Day Trips In The Winter

27. stowe, vt.

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding Vermont areas, White Mountains

Stowe is hard to beat as a charming, small town winter day trip in Vermont. It’s also one of the best places in Vermont in the fall season, but I decided to add it to the winter section because it has a little something extra in the winter that just feels magical.

In January, you can visit during their winter carnival to see professional ice sculptors in action. And you can also plan a visit to the Spruce Peak Lodge resort to skate at their scenic ice rink, and enjoy lunch at one of their restaurants.

And, of course, you can’t talk about Stowe without mentioning the ski resort, which is continually voted as one of the best in the region. If you love to hit the slopes in the winter, this is one of the best day trips you can take in New England!

→ Click here to read my full guide on all the best things to do in Stowe!

28. Camden, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Bar Harbor, surrounding areas in Maine

Camden is honestly awesome year-round, especially in the summer for windjammer cruises around the harbor, and in the fall season for colorful foliage. But in winter, it’s home to one of the most exciting winter parks in Maine – the Camden Snow Bowl.

The Camden Snow Bowl offers ski trails, a snow tubing park, and even a very fun toboggan chute. In February, the famous toboggan chute is actually the location of the U.S. Toboggan Championships. But if you visit outside of the competition weekend, visitors are able to fly down the chute during their visit (which I highly recommend).

Camden is also often named one of Maine’s most beautiful towns, so during your day trip, you should also plan to visit the charming Main Street downtown, which is home to cute shops and restaurants.

29. Lincoln, NH

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding areas in the White Mountains and Vermont, Portsmouth

If you’re nearby Lincoln, NH in the winter season, you’ll want to consider a day trip to see the famous Ice Castles, which only puts on a few displays throughout the U.S. Technically located in South Woodstock (which is only a few minutes from Lincoln), the Ice Castles display is really something special to see with your own eyes.

Not only is there a giant castle carved out of ice (that changes each year!), there are also often special features like ice slides, sleigh rides, tunnels, tubing and more.

And because there are so many other winter activities in Lincoln like skiing and scenic gondola rides at Loon Mountain, ice skating at RiverWalk resort, sleigh rides at Franconia Notch stables, there are tons of ways to fill up your day trip itinerary.

→ Click here to read my guide on all the best things to do in Lincoln!

30. Jackson, NH

Jackson is another amazing winter destination for a day trip in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire. And since it’s only just an over an hour from Lincoln, you could easily combine the two for a winter wonderland day of fun.

One of the best things to do in the winter is actually drive from Lincoln (the previous suggestion!) to Jackson for a scenic winter drive. You have two options for this, both of which are beautiful: The Kancamagus Highway, and the drive through Crawford Notch State Park (along Route 302). Both will take about the same amount of time, so it’s really personal preference.

Once you arrive in Jackson, there are tons of downhill, cross-country ski and snowshoe trails to explore.

Another wonderful winter activity in Jackson is Nestlenook Farms, which has one of the most beautiful outdoor ice skating rinks, and they also offer sleigh rides along lantern-lit trails, as well as fire pits to warm up next to.

31. Portsmouth, NH

Best as a day trip from: White Mountains, Boston, Providence, Newport, Massachusetts North & South Shore , Portland and surrounding areas

Portsmouth is another destination in New England that feels like both a city and a quaint, charming town, and in the winter, it feels like the most perfect, cozy winter day trip adventure.

One of the top things to do in the city during the winter season is skate at the outdoor rink at Puddle Dock Pond, which is part of the Strawbery Banke Museum. The ice rink is backdropped by historic houses, and you can’t help but feel like you’re in a cute little New England village while you make your way around the ice.

After your skating adventure, you’ll want to walk through the beautiful historic side streets to Market Square, where you’ll find tons of beautiful stores and amazing restaurants for a cozy meal. One of the coolest places to eat in Portsmouth is the Book & Bar, which is, as you probably guessed, a bookstore, bar and cafe all in one.

Pro Tip : To stay warm while you explore, grab a hot chocolate from Elephantine Bakery before you begin your stroll around Market Square.

32. Boston, MA

Best as a day trip from: Providence, Portland, Cape Cod, Plymouth, Massachusetts North & South Shore, Newport

Boston is a wonderful city to visit year-round, but I actually think winter is one of the best seasons to explore because it’s far less crowded. Sure, the winter weather isn’t exactly idea, but if you get lucky enough to experience a fresh snowfall, it’s simply so beautiful to see the cobblestone streets covered in a dusting of snow.

Plus, because Boston has so many wonderful things to do indoors, as well as a few fun outdoor activities, it’s hard to beat for a city winter escape.

One of the best ways to get around Boston any time of the year is by trolley. This allows you to park your car for the day and have someone else take you to the best locations around the city. One option is the hop on/hop off pass, which is perfect for day-trippers. → Click here to book your Boston trolley passes!

And is it just me, or if your appetite bigger in the winter? I especially love food tours in the colder months for this reason, and Boston is an amazing destination to dive deep into the culinary world.

There are some awesome tours throughout the city to introduce you to the best foods in Boston, and you can click the link below to read my picks for the best ones . → Click here to check out my round-up of the best Boston food tours!

And for outdoor fun in the winter on your day trip, you’ll want to head to Frog Pond in Boston Common for ice skating , which is one of the best things to do in Massachusetts in the winter . This is especially fun at night when the rink is surrounded by twinkle lights, and you can see the city landscape light up as you make your way around the ice. You’ll also want to grab a cup of hot chocolate from L.A. Burdick to savor while you walk around to explore.

For indoor activities, you can visit the New England Aquarium, do some shopping at Copley Place, get tickets to a show, and make reservations for a fun dinner out before leaving (I’m especially fond of the Italian restaurants in the North End, but there are tons of places to choose from all over the city!).

33. Providence, RI

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Newport, Cape Cod, Plymouth

Providence is the capital of Rhode Island, and is a wonderful day trip to take in the winter season (and year-round, too!)! Not only will you get to enjoy everything the city has to offer in terms of great food, culture, theater, and historic sites, there are also some very fun ways to enjoy the winter season in Providence.

To enjoy the brisk winter weather, you’ll want to head to the BankNewport City Center Rink in downtown Providence. Here, you can enjoy ice skating and … ice bumper cars? Yes, you read that right! This rink is also home to this unique and fun winter activity that’s sure to make you feel like a kid again.

34. Killington, VT

Best as a day trip from: White Mountains, surrounding areas in Vermont

One of the best places in Vermont for skiing and outdoor winter fun is Killington Ski Resort, so this is the perfect day trip option for anyone looking to spend all day outdoors playing in the snow.

At Killington, you’ll find a large network of downhill ski trails, as well as a really fun snow tubing park, a roller coaster, snowmobile tours, snowshoe trails and even a spa (which is the perfect way to end your day trip after playing outside all day!).

35. Portland, ME

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Massachusetts North & South Shore, surrounding areas in Maine

Finally, let’s talk about Portland, one of the coolest destinations in Maine in the winter season. While Portland is also wonderful year-round, I especially enjoy it in the winter for the same reasons I like Boston in the winter – fewer crowds, and a bigger appetite to eat all the food 🙂

Portland is another incredible foodie destination in New England, and you’ll definitely want to consider a culinary tour during your day trip.

One of the best foodie tours in the city is this Old Port culinary walking tour, which takes you to some of the best spots in the most beautiful and historic part of the city! Click here to book your Old Port Culinary Tour in Portland!

Other posts on Portland to help you plan your trip:

• Best Things To Do In Portland In The Winter
• Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
• Best Day Trips From Portland, Maine

Best New England Day Trips In New England For Families

Pretty much every destination on this list makes for a wonderful day trip with the kids, but here are my picks for places that are especially perfect day trips in New England for families. I’ve included a few kid-friendly suggestions for each destination to plan the perfect itinerary.

→ Boston, MA : New England Aquarium, Boston Children’s Museum, Boston Museum of Science, Legoland Discovery Center, boat ride at the Public Gardens, The Lawn On D.

→ Mystic, CT: Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport Museum to climb aboard tall ships, B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill (fall season), sail boat tours, watch the Bascule Bridge in action.

→ Woodstock, VT : Billings Farm & Museum is one of the top attractions for families in Vermont, Silver Lakes State Park, ice cream at Woodstock Scoops, horse-drawn carriage rides.

→ Providence, RI: Roger Williams Park Zoo, WaterFire events, Providence Children’s Museum, ice skating (winter), Water Place Park.

→ Block Island : 1661 Farm and Gardens, The Ice Cream Place, free beaches, and kids will love the ferry ride to get there!

Best New England Day Trips For Couples

As I’m sure you can imagine, all of the destinations from this list are amazing day trips for couples, but here are my picks that are especially perfect for a romantic day together:

→ Kennebunkport : This is a romantic destination year-round, and is especially perfect at Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or for a summer day trip.

→ Nantucket : The island is one of the most picturesque places in the U.S., and the beaches are absolutely stunning and offer incredible sunsets for a romantic stroll.

→ Stowe : Perfect for a fall or winter day trip, Stowe is such a quintessential New England town that’s cozy and romantic.

→ Litchfield, CT : Spend your day admiring fall foliage, covered bridges, eating at cozy restaurants and walking around quaint villages while holding hands.

You may also enjoy reading:

• Best Boston Hotels Near The Aquarium
• Most Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
• Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
• Lovely Things To Do In New England In The Spring
• Exciting Things To Do In New England In The Fall
• Awesome New England Winter Getaways (Even For Non-Skiers!)
• 60+ Things To Do In Vermont
• The Most Incredible New England Lighthouses To Visit
• Summer In Connecticut: The Best Things To Do!
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Time To Visit New England
• My Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

That’s A Wrap On The Best New England Day Trips

And there you have it! My picks for the best day trips in New England. So, where are you planning to go first? Maybe hit the beaches in Provincetown? Wander the historic streets in Boston? Regardless of where you go, one thing’s for sure – it’s going to be a memorable day!

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The Best Day Trips in New England

From hiking in the lush Green Mountains of Vermont to whale watching off the coast of Massachusetts, these are the best day trips in New England.

New England, covering the north east corner of the United States, is packed with natural, cultural and culinary treasures. Venture out of the main cities which include Boston, Portland and Burlington, and you’ll find green rolling hills, wild national and state parks, quaint historic towns and beautiful beaches along the coast.

Road trips in New England are sure to provide you with plenty of surprises, whether it’s sampling a delicious lobster roll on the rugged coast of Maine, or marvelling at the autumn leaves in Vermont and Massachusetts.

As the first destination for many of the earliest settlers from Europe, New England is steeped in American history. A great way to learn about the region’s fascinating past is at one of its renowned living history museums. However, the real delight of going on a day trip in New England is found in the remarkable scenery – plunging gorges, lush forests and tall mountains await, so make sure you have your camera ready.

The best way to get to know the region? Hop in the car and go for a drive. New England road trips are pretty special (especially in the autumn) and being mobile will allow you to discover the wilder side of this enchanting corner of the United States.

The Best Day Trips In New England

Explore acadia national park.

One of Maine’s finest natural treasures, Acadia National Park is a must if you’re looking for active day trips in New England. From hiking, mountain biking, skiing and fishing, there’s something to do here in every season. Plus, here you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views on the Eastern Seaboard. Climb to the top of Cadillac Mountain (the tallest peak on the Atlantic Coast), or marvel at the spectacular show at Thunder Hole, where the pounding sea meets the dark rocks.

Acadia National Park is also a wonderful place for cycling, with hundreds of miles of trails winding through forests, hills and along the dramatic coastline. This wild, rugged part of Maine can be difficult to access, so we’d recommend choosing it as a day trip if you’re staying in Portland or other parts of Maine.

Head To A Food Festival

If you’re a foodie like me then you’ll probably want to go on a day trip in New England that involves some delicious grub! From the coast to the mountains, New England is known for its local produce, and there’s no better way to spend a day in Maine, Rhode Island or Massachusetts than by heading for a regional food festival. Whatever time of year you visit, you’ll have plenty to choose from.

In August, the Maine Lobster Festival draws huge crowds, eager to sample the iconic lobster rolls and watch the oyster shuckers compete to see who can work the fastest! A handy shuttle bus runs from major cities in Maine and the rest of New England, so this is an excellent choice for a day trip if you’re visiting Boston or other parts of the region.

Drive inland from Bar Harbor and you’ll find a sea of wild blueberries, also celebrated in August as part of the Wild Blueberry Festival. In May and June, Vermont hosts a Garlic and Herb Festival, followed by the Chocolate and Cheese Festival in the summer. Finally, beer lovers shouldn’t miss the New England Beerfest, a one-of-a-kind celebration of the region’s craft beer.

Go Whale Watching from Gloucester, MA

If you’re looking for unforgettable day trips in New England, then whale watching should be at the top of your list. The teeming waters of the Atlantic play host to all kinds of migrating whales between May and October, and one of the best places to see them is just off the coast of Gloucester, Massachusetts.

There are plenty of companies running day trips, and you can expect to see many different whale species, including blue whales, sperm whales, minke whales, and fin whales. You might also have the chance to spot dolphins, porpoises and several kinds of marine birds.

Visit A Living History Museum

For a unique day trip in New England, pay a visit to Old Sturbridge Village . It’s the perfect place to step back in time and immerse yourself in the history of Massachusetts. This world-class living history museum, boasts a complete reconstruction of a rural 1830s New England town. Just a stone’s throw from Worcester in south Massachusetts, Sturbridge Village includes 40 antique 19 th -century buildings, all set in beautiful grounds. You’ll get a taste of New England life in the 1830s, as well as having the chance to cook and sample an authentic 19 th -century New England community dinner.

If you’re a history nerd, don’t miss the chance to check out other innovative New England living history museums, such as the Plimouth Plantation , which recreates the earliest colony established by the pilgrims who arrived in Cape Cod from England in the 17 th century. This fantastic complex of open-air museums also include the Wampanoag Homesite, which provides the perfect introduction to the culture of the Native Nations of the New England coast. When it comes to interesting day trips in New England, any one of these museums would be an excellent choice.

Ride The Kancamagus Highway

Visitors often plan road trips in New England in autumn to see the dazzling array of fall colours. This hype is completely justified – in September and October the forests explode in a kaleidoscope of golds, yellows and reds. One of the best ways to experience this annual spectacle is by taking a New England road trip along the Kancamagus Highway, a 35-mile scenic drive through the White Mountain National Forest.

Regardless of the time you visit you can expect stellar views of the White Mountains, the Swift River and Sabbaday Falls, as well as a beautiful vista from Kancamagus Pass, the highest point on the highway. However, in autumn, the scenery along the ‘Kanc’ reaches another level. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera for this epic drive!

Tour The Town Of Salem

One of the best day trips in New England, especially if you’re staying in Boston, is to ride out to the historic town of Salem, site of the infamous 1692 Salem witch trials. Salem is a 30-minute train journey from Boston (costs around $10) and there’s plenty to see and do in a day.

Don’t miss the Salem Witch Museum , its impressive Gothic exterior and fascinating exhibits. Art lovers will enjoy spending a few hours in the Peabody Essex Museum . Plus, while you’re in Salem, be sure to stroll around town on the Salem Heritage Trail and pick up some spooky souvenirs on Essex Street, the downtown shopping hub. Time your visit for Halloween fo ran extra spooky experience.

Where To Stay In New England

The old inn on the green, new marlborough.

This beautiful 18 th -century coaching inn is set in idyllic rolling green hills. The Old Inn on the Green is one of the most romantic places to stay in New England. It’s perfectly located in the heart of the Berkshires in western Massachusetts, making it the ideal destination for those wanting to see the fall leaves or couples seeking a romantic getaway.

There’s an excellent restaurant lit only by candlelight, which serves up delicious meals made from locally-sourced produce. With bags of character, period décor, and stunning views over the hills, this lovely inn is one of the top places to stay in New England.

Check availability and latest prices here

The Chesterfield Inn, West Chesterfield

Looking for a cosy retreat in New Hampshire? Look no further than the Chesterfield Inn, located in West Chesterfield in the Connecticut River Valley. If you stay here you’ll be in the perfect location for exploring New Hampshire and Vermont, with easy access to Chesterfield Gorge and Spofford Lake.

The rooms are sumptuously decorated, many with wooden beams and open fires, making it a wonderful spot for autumn or winter weekend getaways. The service is friendly and the food is excellent, but the real draw here is the scenery, which you can admire from a lounger in the lush garden.

Hidden Pond Resort, Kennebunkport

The Hidden Pond Resort, tucked away in a dense forest on Maine’s southern coast, is one of the most unique and beautiful places to stay in New England. Spread over 60 acres and surrounded by tall birch trees, the resort boasts small cottages and bungalows, decorated in a rustic style with all the modern comforts you’ll need for a blissful retreat into nature.

Wondering about food? Here the produce comes directly from the on-site farm. Plus, while on holiday you can enjoy luxury treatments in the treetop spa. With an outdoor pool, bar, and hammocks swinging peacefully from the trees, this is the kind of hotel you won’t want to leave!

Wherever you choose to stay, there are so many amazing great day trips in New England! Hopefully this has given you lots of inspiration to plan your adventure. Looking for some other great places to visit? Don’t miss my guide to visiting Vermont in winter.

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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The 37 Best New England Day Trips by Season (2024)

New England may be small compared to other regions in the U.S., but there are endless places to visit. I’ve lived here for almost five years and still feel like I’ve only scratched the surface of all there is to see and do.

The six states that make up this region — Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont — offer a beautiful blend of coastal landscapes, picturesque countryside, and vibrant urban centers.

After traveling extensively in this stunning corner of the country, I’ve compiled this list of the 37 best day trips in New England.

⏰ Short on time? Here are my top four New England day trip recommendations:

☀️ summer top pick: ogunquit, maine, best things to do in ogunquit:.

• Soak up the sun on Ogunquit Beach
• Browse the shops at Perkins Cove
• Hike Marginal Way
• Walk along Main Street
• Eat seafood at Ogunquit Beach Lobster House

Best Hotels if You Want to Extend Your Stay: 

📍 Ogunquit River Inn & Suites 📍 The Grand Hotel

🍁 Fall Top Pick: Acadia National Park, Maine

Best things to do in acadia:.

• Drive or hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain
• Hike the Ocean Path Trail and relax on Sand Beach
• Hike around Jordan’s Pond and order popovers at Jordan’s Pond House Restaurant
• Drive the scenic Park Loop Road
• Visit the nearby town of Bar Harbor

Best Hotels if You Want to Extend Your Stay:

📍 The Inn on Mount Desert 📍 Bar Harbor Grand Hotel

❄️ Winter Top Pick: Stowe, Vermont

Best things to do in stowe:.

• Ski at Stowe Mountain Resort or Smugglers’ Notch Resort
• Explore the shops and galleries in downtown Stowe
• Hike or snowshoe along the Stowe Recreation Path

📍 Trapp Family Lodge 📍 Stowe Village Inn

🌸 Spring Top Pick: Boston, Massachusetts

Best things to do in boston:.

• Tour the Freedom Trail  
• Visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
• Go on a Duck Boat Tour
• Explore the Public Garden and Boston Common
• Stroll along Newbury Street and the Charles River Esplanade
• Take a walk down Charles Street in Beacon Hill

📍 Hyatt Regency Boston Harbor 📍 Omni Parker House

Best Day Trips in New England in the Summer

New England summers are fantastic. Since most of the states have their own coastline, it’s no surprise that many of the top places to visit in the summer are near the water. But I’ve included a couple of amazing inland destinations as well!

Here are my favorite summer day trip destinations in New England:

1. Ogunquit, Maine

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Portland, ME; Manchester, NH

I had never heard of Ogunquit until my husband surprised me with a birthday trip there one year, and this coastal town quickly became one of my favorite places in New England.

Start your day with some fun in the sun at Ogunquit Beach , the largest and most popular beach in town. The beach sits on a small strip of land separated from the mainland by a small saltwater river. People often sit on the riverside to enjoy the calm water (especially great if you have small kiddos!).

Stop for seafood at the Ogunquit Beach Lobster House before walking to Main Street to browse the many shops and cafes lined on either side.

Be sure to also visit Perkins Cove, a cluster of quaint shops and restaurants nestled along Ogunquit Harbor. From there, you’ll find the entrance to Marginal Way , a 1.25-mile trail that stretches along the coast and provides stunning views of the ocean the entire way.

2. Portland, Maine

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Bangor, ME; Portsmouth, NH

Pay a visit to Maine’s largest city, Portland . Also located on the Atlantic Ocean, Portland is an eclectic city with both a rich New England heritage and artsy, hipster vibes.

Here you will find one of New England’s smallest lighthouses, Bug Light , which is only 26 feet tall. From there, walk along the beautiful Eastern Promenade for incredible views of Casco Bay.

Experience what it was like to ride a train in the 1800s and early 1900s by purchasing tickets for the historic Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad . Then fill up on fresh seafood from the Portland Farmer’s Market (open Wednesdays and Saturdays) or Harbor Fish Market .

You also can’t miss making the quick drive over to Cape Elizabeth to see Portland Head Light , America’s most photographed lighthouse. This is one of the most breathtaking places I have seen in all of New England.

3. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Situated along the Piscataqua River and just a couple miles from the Atlantic Ocean, Portsmouth is another historic city with a rich maritime heritage. 

Wander the cobblestone streets and browse through the numerous boutiques, art galleries, and cafes of Market Square .

Stop for brunch at the original The Friendly Toast restaurant, known for its eclectic and colorful interior and expansive menu. I love their Eggs Benedict and French Toast! 

The Flatbread Company is another local favorite where you can enjoy delicious flatbread pizza made with locally sourced ingredients.

Take a walk along the Portsmouth Harbor Trail and admire the views at Prescott Park , located right on the water.

When in Portsmouth, it’s also worth a quick drive down the coast to Rye Beach and Jenness Beach if you’re craving some fun in the sand and sun.

4. Gloucester, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Worcester, MA; Portland, ME; Portsmouth, NH

When I first moved to Boston, locals recommended I check out Gloucester for the perfect beach day. They weren’t wrong! This lively town on Cape Ann exudes traditional New England coastal vibes and is one of the best places to spend a warm summer day.

Two of the most popular beaches in Gloucester are Good Harbor Beach and Wingaersheek Beach . I loved Good Harbor Beach for its soft sand and rocky coastline views. There’s also an island not far from the coast called Little Salt Island that you can walk to during low tide!

Another exciting option for your day in Gloucester is going on a whale-watching tour. Take a four-hour cruise to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary to see a variety of whales and dolphins.

🐳 Book Your Gloucester Whale-Watching Tour

While in town, grab a scoop or two (why not three?) from Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe . If you’re craving a meal, stop for fish and chips from Turner’s Seafood — a local favorite.

Cap off your day by touring a medieval-inspired castle, Hammond Castle , the former home of inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr. You’ll be wowed by both the castle’s interior and the stunning ocean scenery from its grounds.

5. Rockport, Massachusetts

Rockport is a sister town to Gloucester, also located on Cape Ann. While there is enough to do in both Gloucester and Rockport for a day, you could plan to see both places in a single trip. Rockport is another historic seaside town that will have you feeling like you stepped into a painting.

Speaking of painting, Motif #1 is a replica of a former fishing shack in Bradley Wharf, and it has been the subject of artists’ paintings and photography for years. If you want a quintessential New England nautical scene, this is your place.

Motif #1 is nestled near Bearskin Neck , a collection of small boutiques and art galleries lined along the harbor. You could spend hours exploring the whimsical variety of items in these shops.

If you’re craving a walk in nature, check out Halibut Point State Park with its many trails that loop along the ocean.

Catch a show at Rockport’s famous Shalin Liu Performance Center , which features an array of musical and dance performances throughout the year. The building is positioned right on the ocean so you can admire the stunning scenery throughout the performance.

And of course, Rockport has its own share of beautiful beaches. Long Beach and Front Beach are two excellent places to sunbathe and swim.

6. York, Maine

Best as a day trip from Ogunquit, ME; Portland, ME; Portsmouth, NH; Boston, MA

The coastal towns continue! York exudes New England charm and boasts a rich history dating back to the early 17th century. Nestled along the southern coast of Maine, York offers a blend of stunning beaches, quaint neighborhoods, and historical landmarks. 

A highlight destination in York is Nubble Lighthouse , perched on a rocky island just off the shore. The lighthouse is a short drive from the popular Long Sands and Short Sands beaches.

Grab some ice cream from the parlor at the historic Goldenrod Restaurant and explore the various souvenir shops nearby. Just up the road is the popular York’s Wild Kingdom , part zoo and part amusement park. The park has been providing fun for all ages since 1951!

York is also home to what might be the world’s shortest suspension bridge, Wiggly Bridge . The bridge, which — true to its name — wiggles and jiggles as you walk across, spans York Harbor and leads to peaceful trails in the Steedman Woods.

7. Newport, Rhode Island

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Providence, RI; Boston, MA; Worcester, MA

Newport is one of those places I could visit over and over again and never get tired of it. This historic Rhode Island town is a perfect blend of fascinating architectural sites and stunning natural beauty.

One of the most popular things to do in Newport is walk the scenic Cliff Walk , a 3.5-mile oceanside trail with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean almost the entire way. 

While in this part of town, you can also tour one of the famous Gilded Age mansions. The most famous mansion is The Breakers , one of the former summer “cottages” of the prominent Vanderbilt family.

🚋 Take a Newport Mansion Trolley Tour

Downtown Newport is filled with interesting shops and restaurants. One of my favorite restaurants is Red Parrot , which has amazing fish and chips. You could also visit the oldest operating restaurant in the U.S., White Horse Tavern .

🍽 Reserve Your Newport Walking Food and History Tour

Stop by Kilwins for ice cream and sit on a bench in Queen Anne Square to look over the beautiful Newport Harbor . Then hop on the Newport Harbor Shuttle at the harbor and take it to Fort Adams State Park . There is a walking path around the entire fort that provides amazing water views the entire way.

8. Block Island, Rhode Island

Best as a day trip from Newport, RI; Mystic, CT; Providence, RI; New London, CT

Block Island is a summer paradise located off the coast of Rhode Island. You can get there by hopping on the one-hour-long Block Island Ferry from Newport or Point Judith, RI, or New London, CT.

Explore the island’s beauty by hiking, biking, or renting a moped .

For breathtaking views of the ocean, visit Southeast Light , a historic lighthouse perched on the Mohegan Bluffs . 

The great thing about being on an island is you can find amazing beaches anywhere you turn. Some of the best ones to check out include Crescent Beach , Mansion Beach , and Ballard’s Beach .

There’s also a large natural harbor on the west side of the island called Great Salt Pond , where you can enjoy boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

You also can’t miss exploring Block Island’s quaint downtown area, known as Old Harbor . Here you’ll find a charming blend of boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. 

For a unique ecological landscape, check out Rodman’s Hollow on the southern part of the island. Part of Block Island National Wildlife Refuge , this large glacial bowl provides awe-inspiring views and is home to a variety of plants and wildlife.

9. Griswold, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from: Mystic, CT; Providence, RI; Newport, RI; Boston, MA

Griswold is a quaint area in southeastern Connecticut with scenic hills and picturesque farmlands. It’s a great day trip option if you want to experience rural New England. 

One of my favorite places in this area is Buttonwood Farm , where you can find one of the largest sunflower fields in New England. The sunflowers reach their peak in July and August. Buttonwood also has an ice cream stand with a delicious assortment of flavors — all made fresh on their eco-friendly farm!

For a peaceful walk in nature, visit Pachaug State Forest, the largest state forest in Connecticut, consisting of more than 26,000 acres with 15 trails to explore.

Bonus activity if you visit in the spring instead of summer: Drive from Griswold to nearby Preston to visit the largest “pick your own” tulip farm in New England, Wicked Tulips Flower Farm . The farm is open to flower-pickers in the spring, where you can find over 100 tulip varieties and more than 1.5 million blooms!

10. Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Best as a day trip from Newport, RI; Providence, RI; Boston, MA

Situated on the southwestern tip of Rhode Island, Watch Hill is known for its stunning ocean views and elegant, historic architecture.

Napatree Point Conservation Area i s a thin, sandy peninsula stretching out from Watch Hill that’s a preserve for bird nesting and migration. It’s a beautiful area to walk and take in the scenic views on all sides, or sit and relax on one of the pristine beaches.

Watch Hill Lighthouse dates back to 1745 and can be found at the southernmost point of Watch Hill. The lighthouse with its surrounding ocean panoramas is an unforgettable sight to see.

Not far from there, you’ll come to Watch Hill Beach , the perfect place to relax in the sand and sun.

While in Watch Hill, take a ride on the oldest carousel in the U.S., the Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round , known for its “flying horses.”

While this post is focused on day trips, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the historic Ocean House of Watch Hill, a luxurious seaside resort and the first and only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star hotel in Rhode Island. Want to consider extending your visit? 😉

11. Narragansett, Rhode Island

Best as a day trip from Newport, RI; Providence, RI; New Haven, CT; Hartford, CT; Boston, MA

If you’re looking for a pretty Rhode Island beach town without the crowds of places like Newport, try Narragansett, only about a 20-minute drive away. Narragansett is home to beautiful beaches and seaside pathways where you can spend a perfect day in the salty ocean air. 

One of my favorite places to visit in Narragansett is Point Judith , a small cape with a historic lighthouse and breathtaking views of the ocean from all sides. If you’re planning a visit to Block Island, there is a ferry that departs from Point Judith, too.

A unique aspect of Narragansett is The Towers , a castle-like structure that crosses Ocean Road and is an iconic venue for public and private events throughout the year. Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior of the building makes for a great photo op. 

Near The Towers is a highly-rated seafood restaurant with ocean views called Coast Guard House Restaurant . You’ll also be right by Narragansett Town Beach , a mile-long stretch of sand that is one of the most popular places in Rhode Island for summer beachgoers. 

Salty Brine State Beach is another fantastic beach option in Narragansett that’s especially nice for young kids as it’s situated along the seawall and has no waves. Kids will enjoy watching the boats and ferries go by here. Just note that the beach is small and you’ll need to reserve a parking pass ahead of time.

12. Bristol, Maine

Best as a day trip from Portsmouth, NH; Portland, ME; Augusta, ME

With its picturesque harbor and rocky coastline, Bristol captures the essence of Maine’s seaside charm. Come here to enjoy fresh lobster from local fisheries and immerse yourself in the town’s rich maritime heritage through its museums and historic landmarks. 

A must-see place in Bristol is Pemaquid Point Lighthouse , where you can climb to the top of the light tower, tour the museum, and climb the rocks along the shore below. The scenery around the lighthouse will take your breath away.

If you’re craving a beach day, Pemaquid Beach Park is known for its gentle waves and smooth, sparkling sand. For a more local, rustic swimming experience, you can also visit The Swimming Hole at Bristol Dam.

La Verna Preserve is a 120-acre nature preserve in Bristol, where you can walk the entire rocky coastline at all tides and enjoy panoramic views of outer Muscongus Bay and its islands. 

Not far from Bristol are the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens , one of Maine’s top attractions. They have a variety of gardens and natural areas, including a butterfly house, bee exhibit, dahlia garden, children’s garden, fairy house village, and much more.

13. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from various parts of Cape Cod, MA

Nantucket is a timeless, quintessential New England location known for its rich history and maritime culture. This island, located 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, offers a picture-perfect combination of pristine beaches, a charming downtown, and iconic grey-shingled houses.

In downtown Nantucket , you’ll find plenty of boutiques and galleries to explore. If you’re a history buff, you might also enjoy the Whaling Museum , which tells the story of Nantucket over four centuries.

Not far from downtown is Brant Point Lighthouse where you can take in beautiful harbor and ocean views.

One of the most remote and breathtakingly beautiful parts of Nantucket is the Costkata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge . At the very end of the seven-mile barrier beach that protrudes from the tip of Nantucket is the historic Great Point Lighthouse . This area of the island is one of the best places to see grey seals!

💡Note that if you plan to drive to Great Point, you will need to purchase a permit from the Trustees . But you can also bike in! Taking a self-guided bike tour is one of the most popular activities in Nantucket. You can either bring your own bike onto the island or rent from one of the shops downtown.

Of course, since Nantucket is an island, there are beautiful beaches virtually anywhere you go. Some popular beaches include Madaket Beach , Surfside Beach , and Jetties Beach (the most family-friendly option, not far from town).

If you want to see both traditional Nantucket architecture and stunning ocean vistas, try the Sconset Bluff Walk . The path begins near town and winds through residential neighborhoods before opening to a scenic trail along the coast.

14. Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Hartford, CT; Worcester, MA

Litchfield Hills is a picturesque region in northwestern Connecticut filled with rolling hills and charming small towns. Here you can escape the traffic and crowds of more urban parts of New England and take in the scenic beauty of the Connecticut countryside.

Visit the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston to learn about the rich railroad heritage of Litchfield Hills. See more than 100 years of carousel history at the unique Carousel Museum in Bristol.

Near the town of Kent, hike the 0.25-mile trail at Kent Falls State Park to admire the series of waterfalls. In the small town of Cornwall, snap a photo of a traditional covered bridge, Cornwall Bridge .

Another prime summer activity in New England is fruit picking! March Farm in Bethlehem lets visitors pick their own cherries, blueberries, and peaches. Mmm.

Best Day Trips in New England in the Fall

It’s no secret that New England is one of the most beautiful parts of the U.S. to see fall foliage and enjoy all the cozy vibes of autumn. Here is my list of favorite New England day trips in the fall!

15. Acadia National Park, Maine

Best as a day trip from Augusta, ME, or Bangor, ME

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful and popular U.S. national parks and one of the best day trip options in New England (though you will likely want to visit for longer!). The park is comprised of more than 47,000 acres of mountains and forests with dramatic ocean vistas that will take your breath away.

One of the best things to do at Acadia is hike or drive to the summit of the largest mountain, Cadillac Mountain (note the Cadillac Mountain Summit Road is only open to vehicles from April to October). If you plan to drive up, you will need to reserve a timed entry slot on Recreation.gov.

Don’t want to drive?  🚌 Reserve a guided bus tour of Acadia National Park from Bar Harbor

Another must-see trail is the scenic Ocean Path Trail with its jaw-dropping ocean panoramas. The trail will lead you down to Sand Beach , one of Maine’s only sandy beaches (hence the name, perhaps?). 

Be sure to stop at Jordan’s Pond House Restaurant for their well-known tea and popovers before hiking around Jordan’s Pond and seeing the iconic Bubbles — twin mountain peaks with rounded shapes.

Most of the key attractions at Acadia can be found by driving the scenic Park Loop Road . For a different vantage point, bring your bicycle and ride along the historic carriage roads that wind throughout the park.

Want more ideas of things to do at Acadia National Park? Check out this post !

16. Bar Harbor, Maine

Best as a day trip from: Bangor, ME; Augusta, ME

Bar Harbor is a picturesque coastal town on Mount Desert Island, right next to Acadia National Park. If you’re planning a trip to the park, it’s worth spending a day here as well.

For fresh Maine blueberry pancakes, start with breakfast at Jordan’s Restaurant . Then walk over to Agamont Park at the end of West Street, where you’ll have scenic views of the Bar Harbor pier and Frenchman Bay.

Try one-of-a-kind flavors at Mount Desert Island Ice Cream , including options like Bay of Figs, Lemon Poppy Berry Jam Swirl, and Salt Wildflower Honey. 

You can enjoy your ice cream on a park bench in the Village Green across the street. There’s a community piano in the park’s gazebo that’s open for anyone to play — feel free to stop and plunk out a tune!

Main Street is filled with lots of shops and boutiques to explore, including Maine’s oldest bookstore, Sherman’s Bookstore .

After you’ve finished exploring downtown, you might also enjoy a stroll through Bar Harbor’s neighborhoods with their beautiful homes and gardens.

17. Burlington, Vermont

Best as a day trip from Stowe, VT; Middlebury, VT; Killington, VT

Burlington is a vibrant city on the shores of Lake Champlain, offering a mix of urban life and outdoor adventures. Because it’s home to the University of Vermont, Burlington has a youthful energy that complements its historic charm.

A highlight attraction in Burlington is Waterfront Park , a clean and spacious public park right on Lake Champlain , where you can see the Adirondack Mountains in the distance. 

From the park, hop on the Burlington Greenway , an eight-mile scenic bike path that stretches from Queen City Park Road to the Winooski River. If you’re not up for a bike ride, you can also walk part of the trail and stop at the lookout points and beaches along the way. 

Church Street Marketplace is another popular part of town. This pedestrian-only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes on either side, where you can easily spend a few hours exploring.

Burlington is where Ben & Jerry’s ice cream was founded, so you definitely should stop for a scoop or two from the Church Street shop.

To experience more of Lake Champlain, book tickets for a Spirit of Ethan Allen cruise. You can enjoy a day tour or reserve a dinner cruise for something a little fancier.

If you’re traveling with kids, it’s also worth going to the ECHO, Leahy Center of Lake Champlain , an interactive science and nature museum on the waterfront.

18. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

Best as a day trip from Manchester, NH; Montpelier, VT; Bethel, ME

If you google the best places to see fall foliage in New England, the Kancamagus Highway of New Hampshire will likely appear at the top of the list. This 34.5-mile scenic drive begins in the town of Lincoln to the west and ends at North Conway to the east.

Check out these stops along the highway for some of the best leaf-peeping viewpoints:

• Lincoln Woods Trail: Walk the suspension bridge over the Pemigewasset River and hike the leisurely out-and-back trail along the river with towering trees overhead.
• CL Graham Wangan Overlook: Here you’ll see one of the prettiest views of the Swift River Watershed and White Mountain peaks in the distance.
• Sabbaday Falls: A short hike will lead you to this beautiful waterfall, which has a guardrail on one side for you to stand and see the falls up close.
• Sugar Hill Overlook: This popular stop features sweeping views of the Swift River Valley and surrounding mountains.
• Rocky Gorge: Walk across the small footbridge over the gorge for scenic views of the Swift River.
• Albany Covered Bridge: Snap a photo of one of New England’s traditional covered bridges.

19. Northampton, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Worcester, MA; Hartford, CT; New Haven, CT; Boston, MA

Northampton is a vibrant and eclectic city nestled in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts. The city boasts an array of independent boutiques, art galleries, and live music venues, making it a haven for artists and creatives. 

If you love coffee, you could spend a lot of time hopping from one coffee shop to the next in Northampton. There are many options to choose from — one of my favorites is The Roost . 

While exploring the shops downtown, take time to admire the street art . There are large murals on the sides of buildings everywhere. It’s one of the features that make Northampton so unique.

Fall is the perfect time for apple picking ! Park Hill Orchard and Outlook Farm are both close to Northampton and have pick-your-own areas where you can hunt for your own fruit.

About 15 minutes outside of Northampton is Look Park , filled with a variety of fun and relaxing activities for all ages, including a steamer train, water spray park, mini golf, pedal boats, playgrounds, tennis courts, walking trails, and more.

20. Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Worcester, MA; Hartford, CT; New Haven, CT; Albany, NY

Stockbridge is located in the heart of the Berkshire Mountains and offers a mixture of historic architecture and stunning natural landscapes. This town has been an inspiration to writers and artists for generations, including Norman Rockwell, who captured the essence of Stockbridge with his iconic paintings. 

Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum to learn more about Rockwell’s life and see some of his original artwork.

Wander along Main Street to explore the antique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Inside the old Stockbridge General Store is Main Street Cafe , which still maintains a lot of the original interior.

Stop by the historic Red Lion Inn (or book a night for the full experience), which has been a landmark of hospitality in the Berkshires for over 250 years. The hotel also owns two local boutiques, Township Four and Shop Around the Corner.

Tour a Gilded Age mansion, Naumkeag , which consists of 44 rooms and eight acres of gardens, including the famous Blue Steps. The property also features a seasonal outdoor Rose Garden Cafe, serving high tea in the gardens on select weekends.

People travel from near and far to visit Tanglewood , the famous summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and a beloved music hall for many prominent musicians. Visit the Tanglewood website for the current line-up of performances.

21. Bennington, Vermont

Best as a day trip from Albany, NY; Stockbridge, MA; Manchester, NH

Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Taconic Mountains, Bennington is a peaceful town filled with tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and a vibrant arts community.

Explore the Bennington Battle Monument , a symbol of Vermont’s role in the American Revolution, and learn more about the city’s history at the Bennington Museum .

See one of New England’s iconic white-steepled churches and Vermont’s oldest Protestant church (dating back to 1805), Old First Congregational Church .

Learn more about the history of Bennington by taking a self-guided Old Bennington Walking Tour ( download the brochure from the Bennington website ). 

Enjoy carefully curated dollhouse exhibits at the Dollhouse and Toy Museum of Vermont . The museum itself is located in a quaint 1850s Victorian home. Bennington is also home to several antique shops , where you can find hidden treasures from days gone by.

If you’re on a hunt to find the most covered bridges in New England, Bennington is home to three of them: the Burt Henry, Paper Mill, and Silk Road bridges . 

And for poetry lovers, the Robert Frost Stone House Museum is not far from Bennington, in the town of Shaftsbury.

22. Mystic, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Hartford, CT; Providence, RI; Newport, RI

Mystic is a 19th-century coastal village that enchants visitors with its scenic waterfront and traditional New England atmosphere. Located on the Mystic River, the town has a timeless charm that points back to its seafaring past. 

Step back in time by touring the Mystic Seaport Museum , one of the largest maritime museums in the U.S., and see the nation’s oldest merchant vessel, the Charles W. Morgan whaleship.

⚓️ Take a guided tour of the Mystic Seaport Museum

Mystic’s Main Street has several character-filled boutiques and restaurants to explore. I really enjoyed the seafood at The Mariner .

Not far from downtown Mystic is Olde Mistick Village , a quaint outlet mall with dozens of shops selling handcrafted gifts, jewelry, accessories, and Mystic-made souvenirs.

Another top attraction in Mystic is the Mystic Aquarium , where you can see thousands of species of marine mammals, fish, invertebrates, and reptiles.

23. Marblehead, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Portsmouth, NH; Ogunquit, ME

Marblehead is on the North Shore of Massachusetts and is renowned for its picturesque harbor, rocky shoreline, and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. It’s one of the oldest towns in the United States, with a rich history dating back to 1629.

One of my favorite things to do in Marblehead is browse the cute boutiques , especially along Atlantic Avenue and Washington Street. Sweetwater Trading Company, Chic Streets, and MacRae’s Sustainable Goods are some excellent places to check out.

Shubie’s Marketplace is a great place to stop for lunch. They have a deli counter where you can order delicious, fresh sandwiches, as well as coffee, cannolis, and other treats. If the weather is still nice, they have an outdoor seating area to enjoy, too.

A hidden gem in Marblehead is Castle Rock Park , one of my favorite places in all of New England. It’s located in the middle of a neighborhood, and if you blink, you’ll almost miss the entrance. Once you walk down the short path from the street, you’ll be greeted with the most stunning ocean views. There’s a giant rock formation you can climb to have an even better lookout point.

As weird as it sounds, one of the most picturesque graveyards in New England can also be found in Marblehead, called Old Burial Hill .

Not far from there is the historic Fort Sewall , an old fortification located on Gale’s Head, on the northeastern point of the Marblehead peninsula.

Like many New England towns, it’s also fun to simply walk the residential streets of Marblehead and admire the historic homes , which are kept up well and full of character and charm.

24. Salem, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Portsmouth, NH; Portland, ME

Another North Shore gem is Salem , a town filled with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a host of historic landmarks. It’s best known as the location of the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. 

Traveling to Salem from Boston? 🚢 Book a high-speed ferry from Boston’s Long Wharf!

If you are curious about Salem’s dark past, visit the Salem Witch Museum , Salem Witch Trials Memorial , and Old Burying Point Cemetery . Because of Salem’s spooky history, the town is especially popular to visit around Halloween.

Salem is also famous for The House of Seven Gables , a historic home featured in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1861 novel of the same name. You can purchase tickets to tour the house and grounds.

Another key attraction in Salem is the Peabody Essex Museum , featuring over 1.8 million pieces of art, architecture, and cultural artifacts. What started as a collection of objects by Salem sea captains in 1799 has turned into one of the most famous museums in Massachusetts.

If you’re craving something sweet, stop by Harbor Sweets for some locally-made chocolate and other sugary goodness. Their sailboat-shaped Sweet Sloops, made of almond buttercrunch, white and dark chocolate, and pecans, are one of their most popular items. (I’ve tried them and can attest that they’re delicious!)

25. East Haddam, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from Hartford, CT; New Haven, CT; Providence, RI

Nestled along the Connecticut River, East Haddam offers a picturesque setting with rolling hills, peaceful rivers, and dense forests.

One of the top attractions in East Haddam (and all of Connecticut actually) is the quirky Gillette Castle , the former home of actor William Gillette. Pay to tour inside the fascinating residence or simply walk the grounds, which provide scenic views of the Connecticut River.

Devil’s Hopyard State Park has hundreds of acres of beautiful hiking trails. One of the most popular stops in the park is Chapman Falls, whose staircase-like shape represents what some people say to be the “devil’s footpath.” 

Just outside of Devil’s Hopyard, stop by Boho Farm , a small family-owned farm near town with a gift shop selling handmade and locally sourced items.

Walk around East Haddam’s quaint Main Street to explore its boutiques and grab some ice cream. See a show at the iconic Goodspeed Opera House in town, which has been hosting performances since the 19th century.

Best Day Trips in New England in the Winter

Winter is a beautiful time to visit New England. Escape the crowds of summer and fall while still taking in the natural beauty and historic sites of the region. And of course, if you’re into winter sports like skiing or ice skating, then this is the prime time to go!

Here are my top picks for New England day trips in the winter:

26. Stowe, Vermont

Best as a day trip from Burlington, VT; Killington, VT; North Conway, NH

Located in northern Vermont, Stowe is known as the birthplace of alpine skiing in the state. Its first lift-operated ski trail started in 1937 on Mount Mansfield (the tallest point in Vermont at 4,939 feet).

The Stowe Mountain Resort is the place to be if you want to ski in Stowe. With 116 trails and 12 lifts, it has been an internationally acclaimed ski resort since the 1940s. Not far from Stowe is another popular skiing location, Smugglers’ Notch Resort .

If you’d prefer ice skating over skiing, there is a complimentary ice rink at the Spruce Peak Village Center, part of Stowe Mountain Resort. You can bring your own skates or rent them on-site.

Downtown Stowe is filled with quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants to explore — a great way to escape the winter cold. Be sure to snap a photo of the iconic white-steepled Stowe Community Church .

Another popular activity is the Stowe Recreation Path , which stretches from Stowe Village to Top Notch Resort on Mountain Road. In the winter, this 5.3-mile trail is open to walkers, runners, bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers. There’s also a free shuttle that provides transportation along Mountain Road if you want to make it a one-way trip!

27. North Conway, New Hampshire

Best as a day trip from Manchester, NH; Portland, ME; Augusta, ME

North Conway is a scenic town in the heart of the White Mountains, in Mt. Washington Valley, and the perfect place to spend a snowy winter day.

In the town of North Conway itself, spend time browsing more than 100 shops, galleries, and factory outlets in North Conway Village .

If you’re interested in skiing, North Conway is within easy driving distance from three popular resorts: Cranmore Mountain Resort (5 minutes), Attitash Mountain Resort (15 minutes), and King Pine Ski Area (25 minutes).

While people flock to the Kancamagus Highway in the fall as one of the prime areas to see colorful foliage, this scenic road is equally beautiful in the winter with the snow-covered mountain peaks and fir trees. Just check the weather before you go as the highway sometimes closes when it snows.

North Conway isn’t far from Mount Washington , the tallest peak in the northeastern United States, towering at 6,288 feet.

The Mount Washington Auto Road is closed to private vehicles in the winter, but you can book a ride on a SnowCoach that takes you up two-thirds of the way, where you’ll have amazing views of the Presidential Range.

Hop on a traditional steam locomotive at the Conway Scenic Railroad . While train times are more limited in the winter, the company still offers picturesque trips through the snowy White Mountains. Check the website for available tours and to book tickets in advance.

If you don’t mind driving an hour to the other end of the Kancamagus Highway, experience the Ice Castles of New Hampshire in North Woodstock. This icy paradise includes ice slides, caves, and crawl tunnels, as well as an illuminated walking path, a snow tubing run, a Winter Fairy Forest, and more.

28. Killington, Vermont

Best as a day trip from Burlington, VT; Stowe, VT; Manchester, NH

On the Green Mountains side of New England lies the town of Killington, one of the most beloved skiing areas in the eastern United States.

Killington Resort is referred to as “The Beast,” with 1,509 skiable acres, 155 trails, and 21 lifts. Its tallest trail has an impressive 3,050-foot vertical drop.

Pico Mountain Ski Resort and Okemo Mountain Resorts are two other popular resorts not far from Killington.

If you fancy snowshoeing over skiing, try one of the trails in Gifford Woods State Park . This park is a common pass-through area for hikers on the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine.

For an easy winter hike, the two-mile out-and-back Deer Leap Overlook Trail leads to a rock outcrop with beautiful views of the Coolidge Mountain Range and Sherburne Pass.

After a long day in the snow, warm up with a hearty dinner in downtown Killington . A couple of highly-rated restaurants include Casey’s Caboose and The Garlic.

29. Washington, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Hartford, CT; Albany, NY

Washington is a picturesque town in the Litchfield Hills of western Connecticut. Known for its charming New England ambiance, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

See the beautiful, white-steepled First Congregational Church before strolling through Washington’s quiet neighborhoods with their historic and well-landscaped homes.

Stop for lunch at Po Cafe , located in the old post office building. They have a delicious selection of food and drinks with both indoor seating and heated outdoor seating. (Note they are closed on Sunday and Monday and are only open until 2 p.m. on the other days.)

For a luxurious winter day trip experience, book a special spa treatment at the renowned Mayflower Inn & Spa . (If you’re a Gilmore Girls fan, this place inspired the creation of the Independence Inn on the show.)

Washington is also home to three scenic nature preserves, the Hidden Valley, Macricostas, and Steep Rock preserves . Each of these preserves allows cross-country skiers and snowshoers on their hiking trails during the winter months. Enjoy snow-covered landscapes as you glide along the various loop trails.

30. Concord, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Worcester, MA; Hartford, CT; Manchester, NH

Concord is a picturesque town just a short drive from Boston, with an interesting blend of colonial architecture, historic sites, and literary landscapes. 

Concord looks like a postcard in the winter, especially during the Christmas season when its quaint Main Street is beautifully decorated with wreaths and lights.

One of my favorite shops in downtown Concord is Nesting , an eclectic boutique with unique gifts and home goods. You can find lots of Christmas ornaments and other winter decor there this time of year.

Another highlight attraction near Concord that’s open year-round is Minute Man National Historic Park , which preserves the sites involved in the first armed conflict of the American Revolution on April 19, 1775. A key place to visit in the park is Old North Bridge , where the famous “shot heard round the world” was fired.

Walden Pond State Reservation is the place that inspired Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s novel Walden . Take a peaceful winter hike around the pond and you’ll come across the former site of his log cabin where he wrote the book.

For another historic, literary experience, take a tour of the Louisa May Alcott Orchard House , the home where the famous author wrote and set her novel Little Women in 1868.

31. Bethel, Maine

Best as a day trip from Portland, ME; Augusta, ME; North Conway, NH

Bethel is a popular ski town in Maine and is referred to as “Maine’s most beautiful mountain village.”

Sunday River Resort is one of Maine’s largest ski resorts with 19 lifts and 139 different trails and glades. It’s also home to the fastest eight-person chairlift in North America. 

Not far from Sunday River Resort is the Sunday River Covered Bridge , built in 1872 and part of the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Mt. Abram Ski Area is a smaller ski resort near Bethel that is a popular choice for families and first-time skiers, or those looking for a quieter, more local skiing experience.

Another “gem” in Bethel is the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum , where you can see meteorites from Mars, the moon, and the Asteroid Belt. There’s also a Rock Garden showcasing 26 geological specimens from around the state.

If you’re up for a good winter hike, try the Old Speck Trail in Grafton Notch State Park , a 7.6-mile round-trip trail that ascends Maine’s third-highest mountain at 4,180 feet. There are also places in the park to cross-country ski or snowshoe.

Best Day Trips in New England in the Spring

New England gets a lot of press in the fall with its beautiful foliage colors, but I absolutely love it here in the spring. New England often has very harsh winters, so there’s nothing quite like seeing those first blooms after the snow has melted away. The weather starts to warm up, but you don’t have to worry about the crowds and traffic of summer.

Here are my top recommendations for New England day trips in the spring:

32. Boston, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Worcester, MA; Providence, RI; Hartford, CT; Manchester, NH; Ogunquit, ME

Boston makes for a great day trip in New England at any time of the year, but I especially love the city in the spring. After a long, harsh winter, it’s so pretty to see all the trees come into bloom, and the streets come alive with people once again.

To understand Boston’s important role in the American Revolution, take a guided or self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail , a 2.5-mile path that leads you to 16 different historic sites throughout the city. You can also experience a reenactment of the Boston Tea Party at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum .

🇺🇸 Book a guided Freedom Trail tour

Learn more about Boston’s history on a one-of-a-kind Duck Boat Tour, an amphibious vehicle that takes you past sights on both land and water.

🦆 Book your Duck Boat Tour (They sell out fast!)

Taste authentic Italian food in North End , also known as Boston’s Little Italy. Mike’s Pastry and Modern Pastry are rivals for the best cannoli. (Most locals seem to point to Modern Pastry, though I think both of them are good — but hey, I’m no cannoli connoisseur.)

Experience Boston’s Chinatown , a center of Asian-American life in New England. There are many amazing Asian restaurants to choose from, and I love to go here for bubble tea!

Walk over to Copley Square and tour the Boston Public Library , especially the historic section of the library that includes the stunning Bates Hall.

Spend some time browsing the shops along Newbury Street with its iconic brownstone buildings before heading to the Charles River Esplanade for scenic water and city views.

A visit to Boston wouldn’t be complete without walking through the Public Garden and Boston Common , two of America’s oldest and best public parks. 

End your day with a walk down Charles Street in the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood (one of my favorite places in Boston!). If you have time, sneak up to Acorn Street to see one of the last original cobblestone streets in Boston. It’s one of the most photographed streets in America.

Related read: 24-Hour Boston Itinerary: Best Things to Do in 2023

33. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Provincetown, MA; Hyannis, MA; Providence, RI; Boston, MA

Martha’s Vineyard is a prime island getaway in New England, just off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The high season for the island is in the summer, so I recommend visiting in May if you want to beat the crowds. (But if you want to see the stunning hydrangeas, those typically don’t start blooming until July.)

The only way to get to Martha’s Vineyard is by ferry or plane. There are several places to catch the ferry, including the Falmouth and Hyannis harbors on Cape Cod. There are also tour options from Boston!

🚢 Book a Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip from Boston

Once you get to the island, spend some time exploring the various shops and boutiques downtown, including the beloved Vineyard Vines store that was founded on the island.

Visit the Oak Bluffs area of the island to see the iconic gingerbread cottages . In this neighborhood, you will also find the Flying Horses Carousel , the oldest operating platform carousel in America. The carousel was first located in New York City but was moved to Martha’s Vineyard in the 1880s.

For stunning cliff and ocean views, stop by the Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook on the western side of the island. (This is an awesome place to watch the sunset, too!)

One of the best beaches on Martha’s Vineyard is South Beach , located on the southeast side of the island. But you really can’t go wrong — you’ll find stunning beaches all over Martha’s Vineyard.

34. Provincetown, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Hyannis, MA; Plymouth, MA

On the tip of Cape Cod is the charming town of Provincetown. It’s the oldest continuous art colony in the United States, with numerous galleries, studios, and theaters showcasing the work of local artists. And with Provincetown stretching 60 miles into the ocean, it’s also filled with natural beauty and seaside fun.

Note that you can drive to Provincetown if you want to see the entire Cape, or take a ferry directly there from Boston’s Long Wharf.

Commercial Street is the center of activity in Provincetown, where you’ll find numerous shops and restaurants to explore.

Provincetown is also a prime location to catch a whale-watching tour . Boats depart from the Provincetown Harbor and last for 3-4 hours, giving you ample opportunity to see a variety of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Check out the 252-foot-tall Pilgrim Monument , which is the actual place where the pilgrims first landed in the New World before sailing on to Plymouth.

The monument is part of the Provincetown Museum , where you can learn more about the Mayflower pilgrims’ arrival and the rich maritime and theater history of Provincetown.

Two of the best beaches in Provincetown include Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach . You may not want to swim yet in the spring, but it’s still worth walking along the shore or relaxing on the sand. 

The Race Point Lighthouse is also worth seeing when you’re in Provincetown, but note that contrary to the name, the lighthouse is about a two-mile hike (or 11-minute drive) from Race Point Beach.

Province Lands Bike Trail , one of three bike trails at Cape Cod National Seashore, is a 5.45-mile trail winding through pine forests, sandy dunes, and cranberry bogs. The trail includes easy exit points to Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach.

35. New Haven, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from Hartford, CT; Mystic, CT; Providence, RI; New York, NY

New Haven is on the southwestern side of Connecticut, about an hour and a half from New York City. It’s a dynamic and diverse city with a vibrant academic atmosphere, rich history, and plenty of natural beauty to explore.

New Haven is most famous as the home of Yale University , one of America’s oldest and most prestigious colleges, founded in 1701. Book a walking tour to learn more about the university’s history and take in the stunning architecture.

Not far from Yale’s campus is the historic New Haven Green that has been around since 1638. Walk through this nine-acre green space, enjoy the canopy of elm trees above you, and stop to see three of New Haven’s historic churches: Trinity Church, United Church, and Center Church.

From the Green, walk a short distance to Louis’ Lunch , one of the tiniest restaurants you’ll ever see. This little hamburger joint has been around since 1900, and they still serve their burgers on toast.

If you’re craving time in nature, visit Lighthouse Point Park for scenic views of New Haven and Long Island Sound. 

Another popular option is East Rock State Park , a unique trap rock formation in the middle of the city. Hike to the top of the “rock” for a birds-eye view of New Haven and Long Island Sound beyond.

In the neighboring town of Hamden, hike the trail around the peaceful Lake Wintergreen . 

Bonus: About 20 minutes outside of New Haven, in Milford, is Silver Sands State Park , one of my favorite places in Connecticut. This unique seaside park includes a sandy beach, boardwalk, and — the most unique feature — a “tombolo” (sandbar) that you can walk across to Charles Island only during low tide. (Be sure to come back before the tide rises or you’ll be stuck on the island with the nesting birds!)

36. Beverly, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Worcester, MA; Portsmouth, NH; Ogunquit, ME

Beverly is a hidden gem on the Massachusetts North Shore. Most people mention towns like Gloucester and Rockport when they talk about escaping the city for a day by the shore, but there are several attractions that make Beverly worth a visit, too.

Start your day in Beverly with a delicious cup of coffee and fresh scone from the tiniest little cafe you may ever see: Beantrust Coffeebar. There isn’t much space inside to sit and relax, but it’s worth grabbing your items to-go and strolling through the pretty neighborhoods nearby.

Lynch Park is known as the Crown Jewel of Beverly with its beautiful rose garden, beaches, amphitheater, playground, and splash pad. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon near the water. (Note that parking is $15 on weekdays and $25 on weekends during high season from the end of May through Labor Day.)

Dane Street Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Beverly, and one of the few beaches on the North Shore where you can find free street parking. You may not want to swim in the water in the spring, but it’s still a beautiful beach for a walk or to sit and watch the waves roll in.

See a show at the North Shore Music Theatre , the largest operating theatre in New England, attracting more than 250,000 people each year. It’s also one of the few remaining “theatre-in-the-round” stages left in the U.S.

Enjoy the lovely gardens and walking trails at Long Hill , the former summer home of the Sedgwick family from 1916 to 1979.

37. Hartford, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Boston, MA; Worcester, MA; Providence, RI

Located in central Connecticut, the state’s capital city of Hartford offers an interesting mix of historic sights, public parks, and high-quality museums to explore.

The Connecticut State Capitol is one of the most beautiful capitol buildings I’ve ever seen, with its gold dome and Victorian Gothic architecture. Surrounding the capitol is the scenic Bushnell Park , featuring a historic carousel and several monuments. 

Another beautiful park to check out is the Elizabeth Park Conservancy . Its focal point is the Helen S. Kaman Rose Garden with its many arches of roses that come into full bloom by mid-June.

Tour the 25-room mansion where the iconic author Samuel Langhorne Clemens (Mark Twain) and his family lived from 1874 to 1891. The Mark Twain House & Museum has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

If you’re interested in art history, visit the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art , which is home to nearly 50,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years.

The Connecticut Science Center and The Children’s Museum are two other fun places to visit in Hartford if you have kids. Both museums are full of interactive exhibits where kids can try their hand at STEM activities and see scientific wonders.

Best New England Day Trips for Families

New England is a wonderful place to visit with the whole family! So many locations have attractions geared toward kids, and there are plenty of activities that can entertain all ages.

These are some of my top recommendations for family day trips in New England:

• Hartford, Connecticut: Kid-focused museums and parks
• Mystic, Connecticut: Fun maritime activities, including a historic ship and large aquarium
• Acadia National Park, Maine: Endless hiking trails and areas to explore
• Ogunquit, Maine: Shoreside fun, with beaches, trails, kayaking, and more
• York, Maine: Home to one of New England’s largest zoos and awesome beaches
• Boston, Massachusetts: Playgrounds, parks, and museums galore!
• Gloucester, Massachusetts: Family-friendly beaches and a hidden castle
• North Conway, New Hampshire: Snowy paradise with ice castles, ski resorts, and more
• Burlington, Vermont: Lakeside parks, hiking trails, and a one-of-a-kind science museum

Related read: 13 Awesome Family Day Trips in Massachusetts by Season

Best New England Day Trips for Couples

If you’re planning a romantic trip for two, here are my favorite options:

• Litchfield Hills, Connecticut: Small towns and scenic landscapes to explore
• Bar Harbor, Maine: Relaxing restaurant and cafe scene at the doorstep of Acadia National Park
• Portland, Maine: Foodie paradise along with plenty of outdoor activities
• Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts: Quaint island getaway with lots of history and charm
• Nantucket, Massachusetts: Similar to Martha’s Vineyard, but even more remote
• Portsmouth, New Hampshire: Walkable downtown and close proximity to beaches
• Stowe, Vermont: Cozy mountain escape

Best Places to Stay in New England

If you’re taking multiple day trips in New England and need a “base camp” where you can crash for the night, here are some excellent options throughout the region:

The Goodwin , Hartford, Connecticut

Nearby day trips recommended in this post:

• Hartford, CT
• New Haven, CT
• Washington, CT
• East Haddam, CT
• Griswold, CT
• Stockbridge, MA
• Northampton, MA

🛌 Check room availability and book!

Ogunquit River Inn & Suites , Ogunquit, Maine

• Ogunquit, ME
• Portland, ME
• Portsmouth, NH

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel , Bar Harbor, Maine

• Acadia National Park, ME
• Bar Harbor, ME

Omni Parker House , Boston, Massachusetts

• Marblehead, MA
• Martha’s Vineyard, MA
• Provincetown, MA
• Concord, MA

Wentworth by the Sea , Newcastle, New Hampshire

• Gloucester, MA
• Rockport, MA
• Beverly, MA

Newport Marriott Hotel & Spa , Newport, Rhode Island

• Newport, RI
• Narragansett, RI
• Watch Hill, RI

Trapp Family Lodge , Stowe, Vermont

• Burlington, VT
• Killington, VT

Here are answers to other common questions about New England!

What month is best in New England?

New England is lovely any time of year, so it all depends on what activities you want to do! I especially like the months of June through September here.

I love New England summers when all the coastal towns come alive and you can enjoy many days at the beach. The water is warmest in August and September but don’t expect the water to ever be “warm” since it is the North Atlantic Ocean. 🙂

Spring and fall have milder but still pleasant temperatures. These are my favorite seasons to explore New England because you don’t have the traffic of the summer crowds or the unpredictable weather of the winter. In the fall, you have the stunning foliage and in the spring, the beautiful blossoming trees.

In the winter, it’s not uncommon for snow storms to make travel difficult and cause certain places to shut down. But New England is a prime skiing and snowshoeing destination, so if you come prepared, December through March are great months to visit.

How many days do you need in New England?

If you want to get a taste of all six New England states, I recommend spending at least one week here. I provide a sample seven-day New England itinerary in this post .

If you have time to spare, two weeks would allow you to explore some of the more remote parts of New England, like Acadia National Park or Martha’s Vineyard.

That being said, if all you have is one or two days in New England, you can still cover a lot of ground. Any of the day trips in this post are great options to choose from, and below are some other posts I have written on day or weekend trips in New England:

• Weekend in Burlington, VT: The Perfect 2 or 3-Day Itinerary
• A Weekend in Newport, Rhode Island: 7 Best Things to Do
• 13 Awesome Family Day Trips in Massachusetts by Season
• Day Trip to Salem from Boston: All You Need to Know

How should you spend five days in New England?

There are many excellent itineraries for five days in New England. To get a perfect blend of coastal views, hilly rural areas, and mountain landscapes, here is one sample itinerary I would recommend:

• Day 1: Litchfield Hills, Connecticut (if traveling by plane, fly into Hartford)
• Day 2: Newport, Rhode Island
• Day 3: Boston, Massachusetts
• Day 4: Portland, Maine
• Day 5: North Conway, New Hampshire (fly out of Portland)

But feel free to mix and match any of the day trips in this post for other itinerary options!

What are the best day trips in each New England state?

These are my top day trip options in each New England state:

• Connecticut: Mystic, Litchfield Hills, Griswold
• Maine: Acadia National Park, Portland, Ogunquit
• Massachusetts: Boston, Marblehead, Gloucester
• New Hampshire: Portsmouth, Kancamagus Highway, North Conway
• Rhode Island: Newport, Narragansett, Watch Hill
• Vermont: Burlington, Stowe, Bennington

Conclusion: Best Day Trips in New England

There you have it: my list of the 37 best day trips in New England! Whether you’re interested in some “vitamin sea,” a long hike in the mountains, a food tour, or visiting museums and historic sites, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

I hope this list has given you lots of inspiration as you plan your New England day trip. Have an amazing time, wherever you go!

PLANNING A TRIP? These are the resources I recommend: ✈️ Flights:   Skyscanner 🛌 Hotels:  Booking.com ​ 🚗 Rental cars:   DiscoverCars 🎟 Tours: Viator  or  GetYourGuide

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19 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston

If you are planning a road trip from southern New England, Boston can be a perfect base as it is centrally located. You can get a hotel and then take many great day trips from Boston to experience the best that this area has to offer.

You will want to start by taking a few days to experience New England’s largest city’s feel. You can read my guide for One Day in Boston with Kids (still a good overview even for adults). Also, be sure to check out my list of hikes right around Boston .

Table of Contents

Short Day Trips from Boston

These day trips from Boston are around an hour’s drive from Boston.

Salem, Massachusetts

Witch City, USA, also has a fantastic art museum and Hawthorne’s House of the Seven Gables. Read on for how to spend a day in Salem. 

Fall River and New Bedford, Massachusetts

This center of fishing life in colonial New England is now predominately Portuguese. You can visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum, the church that was part of Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick inspiration, and the Lizzie Bordon House.  Read more about the area in Haunted New England.

Rockport, Massachusetts

Spend a day exploring this picture-perfect fishing village on the coast north of Boston.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

There is a lot to explore on this peninsula south of Boston, but you can explore the upper Cape in one day from Boston. Most of my exploration of the Cape has been by bicycle.

Portland, Maine

This foodie town also has lighthouses and parks to explore. Check out 47 Cool Things to Do in Portland, Maine.

Providence, Rhode Island

The capital of Rhode Island has canals to stroll along, great restaurants, and art museums. Read on for The Best Things to Do in Providence.

Newport, Rhode Island

This colonial town on Aquidneck Island has excellent beaches, hiking, dining, and a lot of history. Explore A Local’s Guide to Newport.

Sutton, Massachusetts

Hike this trail along the base of the 75-foot rock Purgatory Chasm and get ice cream at the farm next door. Read more about a day at Purgatory Chasm.

Concord, Massachusetts

Concord was not only an important location in the American Revolution but also in American Literature. Walden Pond sits in Concord, as well as Louisa May Walcott’s home. Read my itinerary for one day in Concord, Massachusetts.

Plymouth, Massachusetts

Visit the recreation of the Native American and pilgrim colony following the landing at Plymouth Rock.

New Bedford, Massachusetts

Explore the colonial whaling capital of the world, located on the southern coast of Massachusetts. This area also has a large Portuguese population, a fort, and was a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Read about how to spend a day in New Bedford. 

Whole Day Trips from Boston

It will take about 2 hours to get to these full-day trips from Boston.

Martha’s Vineyard

Sand dunes, farms, Kennedy history, and gingerbread cottages, this island off the coast of Massachusetts will introduce you to the best New England has to offer. Read on for Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard .

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is sometimes known as the quintessential New England town. It is nestled in Vermont’s Green Mountains and alive with the state’s art culture. Plan your day with Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont.

Northampton, Massachusetts

This arty town in northwest Massachusetts is the home of Smith College. Read on for how to spend a day in Northampton.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

One of the most transcendent concerts you can experience will take place at Tanglewood in the rural mountains of western Massachusett. The Berkshires give ample opportunities for hiking, leaf-peeping, and exploring small New England towns.

New Hampshire’s White Mountains

Take a foliage drive or go waterfall hunting through the White Mountains.

Mystic, Connecticut

Explore the seaport at this colonial town on the Mystic River. Investigate more things to do in Mystic.

Mount Major, New Hampshire

The views from the peak of this half-day hike are incredible. You will see New Hampshire’s lakes and highest peak, Mount Washington, in the distance. Learn more about climbing Mount Major.

Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts

This village nestled in the Berkshire Mountains has the Bridge of Flowers, a waterfall, glacial potholes and an art-filled downtown. Read about how to spend a full day in Shelburne Falls.

Which day trips around Boston have you taken? Which are the highest on your list? Please let me know if you have any questions in the comments.

Sharing is caring!

12 thoughts on “19 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston”

I love this list! Boston is such a cool city and I love the idea of spending more time there and venturing out so this list is so helpful!

So many great day trip options from this city! Nice when there is that option, for travellers, it means you can extend your holiday. Make Boston your home base and see some of those smaller towns you have listed. I would love to see more of the nature, in New Hampshire, like Mount Major or Massachusetts with Martha’s Vineyard.

Such great day trip plans even a month of stay there will not suffice to experience it all! The short day trips really sound good and doable. I have not been to Boston yet, but hopefully I will some day with this helpful post! Great pic to go with the post.

Wow! So many things to do. It would really be worthwhile to make Boston a base for a week and do these trips to immerse yourself in the region.

Visiting the east coast has always been something i’ve wanted to do. I’ve seen Boston & DC but that’s about it! Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, Main, I want to see them all!

Funny enough I’ve heard most of these day trips destinations from Boston although I don’t know their locations to Boston. I would like to visit most of them, but I think Fall be the best time?

Some of the locations are close enough for a day trip but would plan an early start in the day because even though they are close enough for a day trip, traffic can play a big factor especially during rush hours… planning a trip to the South Shore or Cape Cod offers only 2 travel lanes for most of the trip once you are on Route 3 which starts in Braintree which is about 9 miles south of Boston and the from Braintree to the beginning of the cape it’s about 45 miles or so… I mention this trip because I am very familiar with this section of MA and I live in Plymouth which is about 10 miles from Cape Cod… The Fall or Spring would be best as far as traffic to the cape but many places close down from Oct to Apr because many businesses depend on tourists during the Summer.

You are right about Boston traffic being a bugger. It is always best to consult Google traffic before leaving, start early or consider public transport. I love travelling in shoulder season.

While there’s still so much to see and do on my actual Boston list, I *did* take a day trip from Boston during one of my visits. We followed your recommendation to visit Providence, RI, and had a lovely day!

I just love the northeast and you’ve given me even more places to explore up there! Perfect fall long weekends!!!

Cape Cod, Massachusetts would be my #1 choice. Haven’t been since I was little and have such fond memories!

I have been to Boston several times now and even took a trip up to Maine & Connecticut once but I have been quite lax on visiting the other areas. For me, I really want to see more of the New England Coastal areas like Providence and I know Darcee would love to see Martha’s Vineyard!

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• United States

25 Best New England Day Trips

Last Edited on March 29, 2024

Other attractions include the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the beautiful Easton's Beach, the historic Fort Adams State Park and great restaurants . More ideas: Where to Stay in Newport and Romantic Weekend Getaways in Rhode Island

When you're ready to have lunch or do a bit of shopping, head to Olde Mystick Village to admire the colonial style buildings, browse the gift shops, and enjoy some fresh seafood . Browse best Mystic Beaches

Block Island, RI

The water surrounding the island provides plenty of recreational opportunities as well, and some of the most popular activities include swimming, surfing, kayaking, and charter fishing. Browse best Block Island beaches

Freeport Crossing

200 Lower Main St, Freeport, Maine 04032, Phone: 617-232-8900 , Map

Green Mountain Byway

The byway also passes through the towns of Waterbury and Stowe, where you can stop to have lunch or do a bit of shopping. More weekend getaways in Vermont

Hammonasset Beach State Park

Hammonasset Beach State Park , 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison , CT 06443, Phone: 203-245-2785

Horseneck Beach State Reservation, New England

Horseneck Beach State Reservation , 5 John Reed Rd, Westport, MA 02790, Phone: 508-636-8816

Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area

If you're more interested in the area's natural sights, you can stop at the Cathedral Pines to admire the old growth forest, check out the 43 varieties of fern in Bartholomew’s Cobble, or snap some photos at the picturesque Beckley Bog.

Cape Cod, New England

Spend a few hours browsing the art galleries in Provincetown, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants , or rent a bike and cycle along part of the beautiful Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Lexington, MA

After that, you can take a Liberty Ride trolley tour, stop by the historic Buckman Tavern, or visit some of the historic sites along the Battle Road Trail. More day trips from Boston

Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center

Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center , 110 Pequot Trail, Ledyard, CT 06338, Phone: 800-411-9671

Mohawk Trail, New England

Highlights include the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mount Greylock lookout point, and the Natural Bridge State Park, and if you're visiting in the spring, summer, or fall, the spectacular Bridge of Flowers is a great stop as well.

Bar Harbor, ME

Kayaking and whale watching are two favorite activities, and much of the island is protected by Acadia National Park , which invites visitors to stroll along the rocky coast, photograph the spectacular scenery, and climb Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the East Coast.

Old Orchard Beach

If you bring your kids, you can also spend some time at Palace Playland, an exciting amusement park with a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and plenty of other exhilarating rides. Old Orchard Beach Map

Old Sturbridge Village, MA

Old Sturbridge Village, MA , 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA 01566, Phone: 800-733-1830

Plymouth, MA

When you've learned enough about history for the day, you can take a scenic ride on the Edaville Railroad, go for a walk in the beautiful Brewster Gardens, or rent a kayak and paddle around on the Billington Sea. Best Beaches in Plymouth

Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, New England

The byway makes for an excellent road trip year-round, but it's particularly spectacular in the fall, when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange.

Reid State Park

Reid State Park , 375 Seguinland Rd, Georgetown, ME 04548, Phone: 207-371-2303

More ideas: kid-friendly things to do in Massachusetts

Sherwood Island State Park

Sherwood Island State Park , Sherwood Island Connector, Westport, CT 06880, Phone: 203-226-6983

Silver Sands State Park

Silver Sands State Park , 1 Silver Sands Pkwy, Milford , CT 06460, Phone: 203-735-4311

Wethersfield

If you'd like to learn even more, you can visit the Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum or the Buttolph-Williams House. When you're ready to do some shopping, you can browse the antique stores in the historic district or head to the Comstock Ferre & Co seed store.

Woodstock, VT

Driving around the back roads is a great way to get a feel for the countryside, but if you want to see more, live farming demonstrations are regularly held at the Billings Farm and Museum, a beautiful property that was formerly owned by businessman Laurance Rockefeller.

Most of these homes can only be seen from the outside, but the 1721 Ladd-Gilman House has been transformed into the American Independence Museum, and seven of the rooms are open for tours. More day trips in New Hampshire

Guilford, CT

If it's the right season, you can also visit one of the orchards on the outskirts of town to wind through a corn maze or pick some fruit to take home. Guilford, CT Map

• 2. Mystic, CT
• 3. Block Island, RI
• 4. Freeport Crossing
• 5. Green Mountain Byway
• 6. Hammonasset Beach State Park
• 7. Horseneck Beach State Reservation, New England
• 8. Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area
• 9. Cape Cod, New England
• 10. Lexington, MA
• 11. Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center
• 12. Mohawk Trail, New England
• 13. Bar Harbor, ME
• 14. Old Orchard Beach
• 15. Old Sturbridge Village, MA
• 16. Plymouth, MA
• 17. Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, New England
• 18. Reid State Park
• 19. Salem, MA
• 20. Sherwood Island State Park
• 21. Silver Sands State Park
• 22. Wethersfield
• 23. Woodstock, VT
• 24. Exeter, NH
• 25. Guilford, CT

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25 Best New England Day Trips (From Boston & Beyond!)

• Latest Posts

• 21 Family Vacations in New England for Every Season (2024) - February 26, 2024
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Are you looking for day trips in New England? I can help! I’ve spent 20 years exploring New England, and made countless day trips in that time. I’m going to share some of the best.

There are New England day trips that take you to vibrant cities like Portland and Burlington, or day trip destinations to quaint hidden gem towns tucked away on the coast. If you’re based in Boston, this list includes several awesome day trips from Boston, but there are options from other starting points, too. New England’s small size makes it so great for this kind of trip!

I know there’s something for everyone on this list of day trips, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural hotspots, or something somewhere in between!

Table of Contents

The Very Best Day Trips in New England

Manchester, vt.

This is one of my personal favorites for New England day trips! I’ve been visiting Manchester, Vermont for 20+ years, and even though I no longer live in this area, I return to it often.

This southern Vermont gem is gorgeous year round, but I especially like visiting in the summer and fall when the weather is convenient for exploring and enjoying everything this area has to offer.

For example, a hike – or drive! – up Mount Equinox is the best way to really and truly appreciate the scenery of this stunning area of Vermont. The toll road is closed November through April, so if you’re counting on being able to drive up, time your trip accordingly.

Manchester is full of lovely shops and restaurants. My suggestions for can’t miss Manchester things to do include a visit to the Northshire Bookstore , tubing down the Batten Kill River, sampling a maple latte at Charlie’s Coffee House , and visiting the charming Vermont Country Store in nearby Weston.

Seriously, it’s a Vermont institution. You can’t miss it!

Otherwise, grab a bite to eat at any one of Manchester’s delicious restaurants : Depot Street Burgers in Manchester Center serves up a wicked good burger.

My personal recommendation for where to stay in Manchester is the Kimpton Taconic Hotel . This is such a charming boutique hotel experience and my husband and I absolutely love staying there.

It’s also home to the Copper Grouse , one of our favorite brunch spots !

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Looking for New England day trips that are perfect for outdoor adventure? Head to the Berkshires!

There is outdoor fun to be found in this area of Massachusetts year round, with excellent hiking trails , cross country skiing trails, ski areas, and more. The Berkshires is a blast in summer, fall, and winter !

If it’s more indoor recreation you’re after, you’ll love museums like Mass MoCA, the Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum , and The Mount , Edith Wharton’s turn-of-the-century estate.

If you end up staying overnight, there are cool vacation rentals , cute cabins , and nice inns and hotels to choose from.

33 Main is a beautiful inn in lovely Lenox that’s perfect for a couples’ stay in the Berkshires!

Rockport, Massachusetts

Rockport is one of my personal favorite New England day trips! I’ve visited many times and love exploring this beautiful coastal town.

There are a ton of boutique shops and art galleries, delicious places to eat and grab breakfast , and some fantastic coastal scenery, including the iconic Motif #1 .

As an added bonus, you also have nearby Gloucester, home to one of the best beaches on the North Shore, Wingaersheek Beach. The water is so beautifully clear!

Don’t miss out on a visit to Lobsta Land , one of the top restaurants in Gloucester.

I love Cape Ann and always enjoy a visit to this beautiful area of New England.

If you end up staying overnight , you should definitely book a room at the Emerson Inn . It’s absolutely delightful!

Bristol, RI

Super cute, quaint, and very patriotic if you’re planning your New England day trip around the 4th of July, Bristol is one of those small town fun type of places that can feel like a breath of fresh air!

This is the perfect one day getaway destination for anyone who wants to have a nice, relaxing reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind.

Hang at Bristol Town Beach, tour Blithewold Mansion , check out the Mosaic Art Gallery, then grab a bite to eat. Portside Tavern is always a great choice for lunch and dinner, and they also have live music often.

PS if your day trip is during the weekend, they serve an incredible brunch with bottomless mimosas. Just sayin’.

If you do decide to do an overnight, book the historic Williams Grant Inn for a classic B&B experience.

Plymouth, MA

What could be a better New England day trip idea than a visit to America’s hometown? 

There’s a lot to do and see in Plymouth, like scoping out the Plimoth Patuxet Museum , Plymouth Rock, and the Mayflower II replica for the history buffs out there, and places like the Plymouth Bay Winery for enjoying the present day indulgences, as well!

As for restaurants, there are lots of great choices for where to eat during a Plymouth day trip. Two of the most distinctively Plymouth restaurants are the Rye Tavern , which dates back to the 1700s, and Tavern on the Wharf , one of the top seafood restaurants in the area!

For a little extra pampering, book a room at Mirbeau Inn & Spa and extending your trip – you won’t regret it!

Woodstock, Vermont

One of my absolutely favorite day trip destinations is Woodstock, Vermont . This is such a fun little town to visit!

You’ve got the Village Green and Woodstock Village that are everything that makes small town New England so freakin charming. You’ve also got covered bridges to enjoy, including some of the best in the state .

You’ve got boutique shopping at places like Yankee Bookshop and FH Gillingham & Sons , Vermont’s oldest independent bookstore and oldest family run general store, respetively.

Farm to table dining at spots like Worthy Kitchen abound, and it’s one of those restaurants where even just a burger and fries becomes a memorable meal!

I’ve stayed in a few local hotels and inns, but if you’re interested in a room with a view, book 506 on the River Inn . As the name suggests, you’re on the river and it’s beautiful.

You can read more about my stay here .

Providence, RI

The capital city of Rhode Island makes for one of the best day trips New England has to offer, period! 

There’s all kinds of great fun to be had in Providence , with an amazing art scene, interesting history, cute coffee shops, cool breweries, fantastic restaurants, and their Italian food? Whew.

If you find yourself at Andino’s in Federal Hill , you’re going to want to save room for dessert. It’s going to be hard to choose between crowd favorites like the homemade tiramisu and the ricotta cannoli, so maybe just order both?

If you can plan your trip to coincide with Waterfire , the incredible art installation that takes place numerous weekends throughout the year, you’ll really be in for a memorable Providence day trip!

PS if you wanted to just go ahead and upgrade to a weekend trip to PVD , I don’t blame you. There are a ton of great hotels in Providence, including historic hotels like The Graduate , formerly known as the Biltmore.

Newburyport, MA

Looking for a cute little seaside town to set up shop in during your coastal New England day trip? Say less, you want Newburyport MA! 

Less than an hour’s drive from Boston, you’ll find one of the best beach towns in Massachusetts , with Plum Island for all your strolling-on-the-sand-while-gazing-dramatically-out-to-sea needs. 

Newburyport is full of lovely coastal scenery like that, with the Newburyport Lighthouse, Plum Island Lighthouse, and Maudslay State Park offering some of the best views.

In fact, if you’d like to combine views with some of the best seafood on the coast, head to Michael’s Harborside for lunch or dinner. This is North Shore waterfront dining at its best!

It also has a super cute little B&B, so if you’re looking for romantic day trips from New England that will morph into an overnight trip, check out Compass Rose Inn .

Boston, Massachusetts

Depending on where you’re coming from, a day trip TO Boston might be on the docket, especially if it’s more big city vibes you’re after.

Boston is one of those places that truly has something for everyone. Sports fans will love catching a game or tour of Fenway Park, history lovers will appreciate walking the Boston Freedom Trail , and art and culture lovers will enjoy the multitude of Boston museums. 

One thing I love about Boston is the wide variety of options. There are incredible restaurants , coffee shops, breweries, rooftop restaurants and bars, and more. Contessa is one of the coolest rooftop restaurants in town, so if you can get in, GO!

Don’t forget to hit some of the top North End restaurants , including some famous cannoli bakeries.

I can tell you, seeing other people carrying around that little blue and white Mike’s Pastry box becomes Pavlovian… It’s hard to not drop everything and head to the North End to get my own!

There’s a lot to choose from if you want to stick to only one day in Boston, so if you decide to extend to a weekend or longer, I completely understand! If you decide to stay longer than a day, check out these resources:

• 9 Fabulous Boston Hotels with an In-Room Jacuzzi
• Where to Stay in Boston: The Best Hotels for Your Visit
• 15 Unique Boutique Hotels in Boston to Book

I loved staying at the Fairmont Copley Plaza during our romantic couples trip to Boston . It was just the right amount of luxury and elegance for us!

Kennebunkport, ME

For that classic Maine coastal vibe, it’s hard to find a better New England day trip than Kennebunkport ! You’ve got craggy beaches, boutique shopping, incredible restaurants, and so much more. 

Stroll through Dock Square, popping in and out of the great shops you’ll find there. It’s boutique shopping at its finest! Then head to one of the popular local beaches like Goose Rocks or Gooch’s to take in that sweet and salty sea air.

In fact, this is another one of those spots that really deserves more than a day, so consider booking a room at one of the Kennebunkport hotels like The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel – it’s also home to one of the best seafood restaurants in Kennebunkport!

New Haven, Connecticut

One of the top New England day trip destinations in coastal Connecticut, New Haven is a definite must visit.

Home to Yale, one of the most prestigious universities in the US, New Haven is one of those towns that is small in size but big in attractions!

This coastal Connecticut town has plenty of arts, culture, and attractions, with a variety of museums, libraries, coffee shops , parks, theaters, and restaurants to choose from – there’s always something happening in this college town!

Lighthouse Point Park and the New Haven green are two lovely outdoor spots to visit during your day trip. The New Haven green is one of the oldest in New England!

If you decide to extend your New Haven day trip overnight, book a room at The Blake so you can enjoy their art gallery expos and concert series that happen onsite. Live music at one of the trendiest boutique hotels in Connecticut? Sounds perfect!

Burlington, Vermont

My home for several years, I’ll always have a soft spot for Burlington , Vermont, and recommend everyone visit this incredible city at least once!

As far as day trips in New England go, Burlington may be an official city, but it still has that small town feel and it’s pretty easy to get around and fit a lot of fun into one trip.

Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington has so much to see and do and is a great place to visit for foodies and craft beer lovers especially.

In true Vermont fashion, most restaurants pride themselves on ingredients being locally sourced. Burlington is big on keeping the consumer footprint small!

Church Street Marketplace is one of the must visit places to go in Burlington, and there’s shopping, cafes, and street entertainment pretty much year round. Onyx Tonics is one of my favorite coffee shops , I suggest you order a maple latte – delish!

You really can’t skip out on a visit to Lake Champlain during your day trip to Burlington, and it’s walkable from Church Street.

There’s a beautiful waterfront park and the Burlington Bike Path skirts the edges for several miles, providing an ideal route for a bike ride or a run and lots of great hiking nearby , too.

If you’ve got time, getting out on the water is a must! You can go sailing, stand up paddle boarding or kayaking, or hop aboard one of the scenic ferries. A scenic cruise on Lake Champlain is always a good time.

Staying overnight? You’ve got a ton of great options but I recommend Hotel Vermont , it’s got a brilliant location and is within walking distance of all kinds of local hot spots.

Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Looking for island fun? Located off the coast of Massachusetts is one of the most beautiful New England day trip destinations for the summer. As long as you plan your visit during the warm weather months, there will be plenty of opportunities to head over and back on the ferry all in one day!

Martha’s Vineyard is full of fun things to see and do! You’ve got delicious restaurants, beautiful inns and hotels, and cool vacation rentals if your day trip turns into an overnight.

 Oak Bluffs is a great place for your New England day trip, offering a chance to see some of the top island sights like the colorful gingerbread houses, scenic Ocean Park, and the historic Flying Horses Carousel.

Interested in turning your day trip into an overnight? Book a room at the colorful boutique hotel, Summercamp !

Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

This is about as classic small town New England as you can get! 

If you plan your Litchfield Hills day trip for autumn, you can enjoy some of the fantastic fall foliage this area is known for. It's quintessential New England countryside, and you'll find some of the loveliest scenery in the Nutmeg State in this area of farms and gently rolling hills.

There are quaint fall day trip activities like fly-fishing on the Housatonic, kayaking on Lake Waraumag, and some of the best apple-picking , pumpkin-patching , and corn-mazing in the state! 

There are some of the best New England farm to table restaurants in Litchfield restaurants and surrounding areas, as well. This is one of the best day trips in New England for those looking for a slower pace.

The Litchfield Hills includes towns such as Torrington, Woodbury, Kent, Cornwall, and Washington - very English-y names, aren’t they?

If you’re looking for a lovely place to extend your stay, consider The Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington. Not only is this a perfectly classic New England hotel, but legend has it it was also the inspiration for Lorelei Gilmore’s inn The Dragonfly in the popular Gilmore Girls tv show .

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Pretty Portsmouth is one of the top destinations on New Hampshire’s Seacoast, and I love visiting this cute little town! Portsmouth is very historic and is actually the third oldest city in the nation. It’s an excellent New England day trip for history lovers.

One of the must visit spots in Portsmouth is the Strawbery Banke Museum, the outdoor living history museum with actors portraying historic residents of the town and showcasing what life may have been like in historic Portsmouth.

Prescott Park is another outdoor spot you should scope out on your day trip. It's so pretty!

Portsmouth has a great foodie scene, and a visit to Market Square is perfect for shopping. There are some pretty cool bars and breweries in Portsmouth, too!

If you do decide to extend your visit, book a room at the Hotel Portsmouth !

Stowe, Vermont

Looking for a New England day trip that takes you to a classic, iconic mountain town? Stowe, Vermont is where you want to go!

Nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, you’ll find this lovely mountain town is perfect for day trips in summer, fall, or winter.

The Main Street of this stunning village has a white-steepled church and an old-fashioned general store, and the mountains provide a perfectly picturesque backdrop. This is an especially popular Vermont fall foliage day trip destination.

There are countless cozy eateries and shops to explore.

The Von Trapp Brewery and Bierhall is one of my top recommendations because it's just oh, so Stowe.

Hiking is plentiful, with trails suitable for all ages that offer a variety of beautiful mountain views. If you're looking for a skiing day trip in New England, Stowe is a top notch choice.

Stowe is a lot of fun and I always enjoy my visits. It is one of those day trip places in New England that achieves the perfect balance of outdoor activities with relaxation and ‘indoor stuff.’ I personally find it especially fun in summer !

PS did you know Emily's Bridge in Stowe is considered not only one of the most haunted places in Vermont, but also in all of New England ?? Cross it... if you dare.

Planning to extend your day trip to an overnight? You’ve got some great hotels and vacation rentals to choose from, but you can't go wrong booking a stay at the culturally significant Trapp Family Lodge !

It’s a bucket list New England experience.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Attention all outdoor enthusiasts, I’ve got the perfect New England day trip for you!

Acadia National Park is one of those beautiful areas of New England where the mountains and the ocean collide, and visitors are treated to stupendous views in addition to all the fun this area offers.

Located on Mt. Desert Island, you’ll find all kinds of great hiking and natural attractions, like Thunder Hole and Ocean Path. There’s a wide variety of things to do during your day trip to Acadia !

Beautiful Bar Harbor (the town at the entrance of the park) is filled with restaurants, shops, and great places to stay , so if you’re looking to extend your visit, you’ll find plenty of gorgeous Acadia hotels , cabins , camping sites, and more to choose from.

Definitely grab a bite at Side Street Cafe while in Bar Harbor, it's absolutely fantastic!

If you do end up staying overnight, I recommend Bar Harbor Inn & Spa .

It’s absolutely gorgeous and I love staying at this beautiful inn!

Listen, there are so many Cape Cod town s that would be the perfect New England day trip that I couldn’t decide on just one!

There are beautiful and peaceful walking trails and scenic views along Cape Cod National Seashore, gorgeous beaches, lighthouses, and so many great attractions all along the Cape.

You can go whale watching , stroll the darling downtown areas and their art galleries and gift shops, visit the wineries, and fill your belly at the top ice cream spots and restaurants on the Cape. 

Truly, Cape Cod is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in New England, so seafood lovers will rejoice!

There are incredible places to visit and stay all around the Cape , so you won’t go wrong wherever you choose!

I especially loved staying at the charming Captain’s House Inn in Chatham with my little family.

More About Cape Cod:

• Cape Cod in the Fall: 15 Things to Do
• 13 Things to Do in Wellfleet MA: A Cape Cod Getaway
• 25 Top Things to Do in Hyannis MA
• 21 Terrific Things to Do in Provincetown MA

Newport, Rhode Island

Looking for a little taste of luxury and glamour on your New England day trip? You’ll definitely find it on Aquidneck Island in Newport RI . 

It’s one of those NE day trips that is fun year round, but it becomes especially charming at Christmastime. Hallmark Christmas movie vibes , for sure.

One of the main attractions in Newport is visiting the Newport Mansions , the historic Gilded Age gems that you can tour and fawn over. I especially loved touring The Breakers.

Newport is one of those day trip destinations where there are plenty of opportunities for dining, shopping, beach walking, and museum-hopping.

There’s also the iconic Cliff Walk, where you can enjoy views of both the incredible ocean and the historic mansions. It's an incredible way to see Newport.

If you’d like to make this an overnight, there are some gorgeous hotels , including luxury options, and nice vacation rentals , as well.

If you’d like a personal recommendation, I absolutely loved staying at the Hotel Viking.

Their spa services are phenomenal!

North Conway, New Hampshire

One of the best day trips in New England for those seeking fun in the mountains, North Conway is the perfect gateway to the White Mountain National Forest.

New Hampshire’s White Mountains offer spectacular hiking trails and the Saco River for tubing and paddling. After your outdoor adventure, North Conway can help you refuel!

Conway is a mountain town providing a great mix of shopping and restaurants . Muddy Moose Restaurant and Pub is the perfect spot for dinner and drinks after a fun day out exploring the White Mountains.

Nearby Lincoln is also a great day trip destination, with Loon Mountain and all its fun! You can go skiing and ice skating in the winter, or ride the scenic gondola in the summer and fall to get a birds eye view of this gorgeous area.

If you’re looking to stay overnight, there are lots of cool places to stay in the area. The North Conway Grand Hotel is the perfect spot to get a good night’s rest!

Salem, Massachusetts

One of those iconic New England day trips that everyone should make at least once, Salem, Massachusetts is rich with history. You’ll have your pick of museums like the Peabody Essex Museum, and notable sites like the Salem Maritime National Historic Site to explore.

The site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials, you’ll find this area has many interesting historic sites and educational opportunities. Of course, there are also a variety of great walking tours , including ghost tours , if you’d like to get the full effect of the Witch City!

Salem is a town with lots of great things to do , places to eat , and if you’re into the spookier side of things, you can even visit some of its most haunted spots . 

I, as a child of the 90s, am particularly fond of visiting the Hocus Pocus filming sites . It's so cool to see them in person!

You can follow my ready made one day in Salem itinerary to take the guesswork out of your day trip. If it's a weekend Salem itinerary you'd like, I have that too.

If you’re feeling daring and want to stay in one of the most haunted hotels in Salem , I can recommend the Salem Inn !

I didn’t experience any paranormal activity while staying there with my husband, but we did love our stay there.

The Lakes Region, New Hampshire

If you’re looking for day trips for summer in New England , I wholeheartedly recommend the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. There’s so much fun to be had in this area of freshwater bliss!

It’s the perfect day trip for a summer day spent swimming and lounging at the lake.

The Lakes Region includes the areas surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee, Winnisquam Lake, Squam Lake, and Newfound Lake, and other smaller lakes and ponds (there are 273 in total!)

Some of the towns to visit include adorable Meredith (right on Lake Winnipesaukee), fun Laconia, and pretty Center Harbor.

In fact, if you’re staying overnight, you should definitely book a room in Meredith at gorgeous Mill Falls at the Lake . They have so many options!

Portland, Maine

Portland is one of those New England day trips that should be on everyone’s bucket list!

You’ve got arts and culture, boutique shops, craft breweries, excellent restaurants, bakeries , coffee shops and so much more in this classic port town.

Are you a seafood lover? Yeah, you’re going to love the lobster roll selection in Portland. You can even get a lobster roll flight at Highroller Lobster Co !

The nearby lighthouses , including Portland Head Light on Cape Elizabeth, are some of the most often photographed lighthouses in New England, and they’re a definite must see. Get out on the water on one of these popular Portland boat tours to see these beauties during your day trip.

Portland is a great day trip location, but there’s so much to do and see that it’s understandable if you decide to extend your trip ! 

You’ve got great options as far as where to stay in Portland goes, with cool boutique hotels and unique vacation rentals. I think the Press Hotel looks incredibly cool!

Mystic, Connecticut

I love Mystic! I truly believe it is one of the best day trips in New England. 

With classic New England seaside vibes throughout, this is an excellent way to explore the coast. Visit the Mystic Seaport and Museum to learn about maritime history and see the beautiful historic ships.

That’s not all there is to do in Mystic either . Must-visit sites on your day trip include the Mystic Aquarium, where you can say hi to the beluga whales, and Olde Mystick Village, where you can shop and enjoy incredible spots like Alice in the Village .

As awesome as this photo is, it was even cooler in person!

Don’t skip out on Mystic Pizza , yes that one from the Julia Roberts movie from the 80s. You younger kiddos might not get it, but send a pic of you dining at this pizzeria to your older relatives, they'll appreciate it!

Mystic is home to lots of great places to eat and stay , so if you do decide to extend your trip, I get it! The Whaler’s Inn is a beautiful boutique inn on the water.

Concord, MA

Interested in a little literary history? Head to Concord , where you can walk Walden Pond and find yourself again like Thoreau. Then visit the Ralph Waldo Emerson Home and the Louisa May Alcott house to see if the inspiration for the next American classic might strike you.

Concord has several great little restaurants and lovely outdoor spaces to explore like the Minute Man Visitor Center to make it the perfect low-key New England day trip.

Want to turn your day trip into an overnight? Book a room at Concord’s Colonial Inn , an absolutely charming historic hotel with popular onsite dining.

When is the best time of year for a New England day trip?

Personally, I like planning for a summer or fall day trip. This makes it less likely that the weather might curtail your quick travel plans, and in general, New England is beyond beautiful this time of year.

Of course, New England is also a winter lover's paradise! There is incredible skiing, XC trails, outdoor ice skating, snowmobiling, and other winter activities all around the state. It really just depends on what you're after, and always have your back up plan in case you have to extend due to weather.

One of the best parts of exploring this beautiful region is that there's something for everyone! Whether it's beachy bliss, mountain fun, or city sights you're after, you can find the perfect New England day trip to suit your needs.

You might also like:

• 10 Fun Connecticut Day Trips
• 9 Incredible Day Trips from Burlington VT
• 10 Best Day Trips from Boston: Road Trips to Take ASAP

31+ Ideas For Family Day Trips in New England

Posted on Published: 03/21/2023

Summer is a great time for a day trip, although you may be up for a day trip any time of year. If you, like me, live in the Northeast, there are so many options for New England day trips, including a bunch of quaint New England cities and towns .

Here are some great ideas including destinations and attractions that you may consider for family day trips in New England. If I’ve missed your favorite, leave me a comment below, and I’ll update the post.

This post includes affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.

Admission to some of these attractions was offered on a complimentary basis for review. All opinions are my own. Please review the specific attractions’ websites before departing for your day trip, as operating days and hours are always subject to change.

Day Trips in New England

Learn about history.

New England offers many historical attractions, so head out and do some learning on your vacation. Of course, Plimoth Patuxet Museums is a popular spot for anyone looking to learn about Plymouth. Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, MA is another living history museum that is great for families to visit.

These living history museums can be a great way for kids to learn about history without even realizing it. If you visit Plimoth Patuxet Museums, you can also purchase tickets to the Mayflower II, a replica of the original Mayflower. While I don’t necessarily think it’s an essential add-on, it is an option.

To learn about United States history, you can also check out the Freedom Trail in Boston, as well as the Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum . For something a little different, head south to Fall River, MA to Battleship Cove , where you can explore the USS Massachusetts.

Salem, MA is another of my favorite places to visit for a day trip. This town by the water is the home of the Salem Witch Trials. In addition to the various museums dedicated to this history, you’ll also find historic homes, shops, restaurants, museums, and more.

Salem is especially busy in October, before Halloween. But, it can be a fun place to visit any time of year, especially in the summer.

Visit the Beach for a Day Trip in New England

Beach days are always fun in the summer, and New England is filled with dozens of them. Whether you visit a saltwater ocean beach, like Horseneck Beach in Westport, MA, Ogunquit Beach in Ogunquit Maine , or Nantasket Beach in Hull, MA, or a pond or lake, a day at the beach can be a great way to cool off in the heat.

Remember that the most popular beaches can fill up in the summer months, so arrive early and check online to learn about what facilities are offered.

In the summer, you may consider taking a day trip down to Cape Cod , where you’ll find miniature golf courses, delicious restaurants, and of course, world-class beaches. Again, these beach parking lots fill up quickly on peak days, so you’ll want to arrive early. 

If you are staying at a hotel or vacation home in Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket can be a great day trip. You’ll just want to book your ferry in advance because they sell out in the busy months.

Go to a Museum

New England, especially the Boston area, is home to numerous fantastic family museums. With younger kids, check out the Boston Children’s Museum in Boston , the  Children’s Museum in Easton , MA or the Discovery Museums in Acton , MA.

There are also so many fantastic art museums in New England. Art lovers will enjoy the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven, CT , the Boston Museum of Fine Art, the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA, and the or the Portland Museum of Art in Maine .

For more of a science and/or natural history experience, there are options in Cambridge, MA (the Harvard Museum of Natural History ), Boston (the Boston Museum of Science),  New Haven, CT (the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History ), and the Montshire Museum of Science in Vermont.

The Newport Mansions in Rhode Island are a fun place to visit, even if you are traveling with kids. These homes, which are the former summer homes of many famous families, offer audio tours. The Breakers has a family audio tour that is especially great for kids. You can also take a walk along the Cliff Walk for beautiful views. There’s also Fort Adams State Park in Newport, which offers gorgeous views.

West of Boston, you’ll find the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA. You may also consider the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, which is also in Springfield. 

Check out more things to do in New Haven, CT , and Portland, ME .

Get Great Prices While Outlet Shopping

With the back-to-school season coming up, it may be a good time to start shopping. There are lots of outlet malls in the New England area. My favorites are Settlers Green in North Conway, MA, the Wrentham Premium Outlets in MA, the outlets in Kittery, Maine , and the Merrimack Premium Outlets in NH.

Remember that there’s no sales tax in New Hampshire, so if you are planning to buy lots of things, it may be worth it to go to one of the New Hampshire outlet malls for shopping. 

Go to an Aquarium

The New England area offers several world-class aquariums. Right in downtown Boston, you’ll find the Boston Aquarium. It’s located right on the water and also offers an IMAX theater. 

There’s also a wonderful aquarium in Mystic Connecticut – the Mystic Aquarium. Although it’s smaller than the Boston Aquarium, it’s got some great exhibits including my favorite – the beluga whales pictured above! The Mystic Aquarium has both indoor and outdoor exhibits that are great to visit in the spring and summer months. Mystic is a great New England town to visit.

Visit a Theme or Water Park

Story Land (Glen, NH), Six Flags (Agawam, MA), Santa’s Village (Jefferson, NH), and Canobie Lake Park (Salem, NH) are just four of the theme/amusement parks that you can visit with your kids this summer in New England.

There are also several outdoor waterparks, like Water Country (Portsmouth, NH), Whale’s Tail ( Lincoln, NH ), and Water Wizz (East Wareham, MA).

Younger kids will love visiting the Edaville Family Theme Park. However, in recent years it has had a limited opening, and it’s unclear if it will be reopening in the summer or just for the holiday season.

Shop at Boutiques

My daughter and I love shopping at small boutiques, and there are lots of quaint shops throughout New England. Some of our favorite places to walk around and shop are Portsmouth, NH, Portland, ME , Rockport, MA, Chatham, MA, and Newport, RI. In the summer, it can be nice to enjoy the outdoor weather as you go from store to store.

Have an Outdoor Adventure

New England is home to so many fantastic places for outdoor adventures. I love Purgatory Chasm State Reservation in Massachusetts and the many hiking trails in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the Green Mountains of Vermont. In the summer, you can also take a boat ride or a Whale Watching tour, or even visit a cranberry bog for more outdoor fun.

I’d definitely recommend taking a day trip over to the Boston Harbor Islands, where you can swim, explore, and learn about nature in this state and national park. Before you take the public ferry, look at their website to see the different islands to visit. They are all different and have various activities so you’ll want to know in advance which one you plan to visit.

If you enjoy skiing, there are so many options, especially in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Some of these mountains offer summer activities as well.

One of the more popular summer destinations is Cranmore Mountain in North Conway, NH, which has a mountain adventure park. It includes a chair lift ride, a seated zip ride, and a mountain coaster.

Another popular spot for a family vacation is Acadia National Park, located in Maine. It’s more of a drive from the Greater Boston area, but worthwhile if you haven’t been to that part of the state. If you are driving from Boston, you will probably want to stay overnight at least to make the drive worthwhile.

What is your favorite New England day trip?

See more New England vacations here .

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Saturday 1st of July 2017

I think you meant Glen, NH (not, MA) for Story Land! Also- the Tanger Outlets in Tilton, NH are awesome-great, great deals and many high-end Brand Name Store (e.g. Coach, J. crew, Banana Republic to name a few). They also have a nice catergory variety for a one-stop shopping experience' from Bath & Bodyworks to an Old Navy Outlet to several children's clothing stores (Gymboree, The Children's Place, Carters, etc.) to a few different shop options for underwear/lingerie, and (not nearly last) right within the plaza lot are a choice of dining options for you (and the family) too! Speaking of family, there's an outdoor playground situated in a main corner between two long Store-strips for when the kiddos get restless! While you're in the area, Laconia offers up the country's (world's?) largest arcade complete with a full bowling alley, small diner/restaurant, and Bingo hall! Of course now I have to mention Weir's beach- a beach with a strip, boardwalk with more arcades, ice cream shops, and (one of the last standing) drive in movie theatres! I could go on and on and on; the entire surrounding area is surrounded with entertainment for families of all kinds and interests!

Jodi Grundig

Tuesday 4th of July 2017

Thanks so much for your comment. You are right - it is definitely Glen NH! Thanks for that. I haven't been to the Tanger Outlets in Tilton, NH in years - but I definitely remember it being a great spot (and you can't beat tax-free)! I also have such fond memories of Weir's Beach because we used to go when I was a kid, but I haven't been back with my kids.

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Best weekend getaways in new england.

Known for its historical roots, rugged landscape, savory seafood and rich sports culture, New England is home to a variety of vacation destinations. But with so many picture-perfect towns spread from the coast to the mountains, it's hard to decide where to head for a weekend getaway. That's why U.S. News took into account sights, culture, food and more to determine the best weekend getaways in New England. Cast your vote below to help us decide next year's ranking. Considering a fall trip to New England? Read our top travel tips »

Newport, RI

Portland, me, martha's vineyard, acadia national park, kennebunkport, white mountains, block island, the berkshires, sugarloaf mountain.

Visitors heading to Newport, Rhode Island, will be treated to breathtaking coastal vistas, glamorous seaside homes and top-notch sailing. Soak up some sun at Easton's Beach, or enjoy the sound of crashing waves while strolling the scenic Cliff Walk. If you'd rather treat yourself during your trip, hit up Thames Street, a bustling strip with delicious eateries, small boutiques and historic Colonial structures. Don't forget to save time for a tour (or two) of Newport's elaborate mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House.

An ideal destination for foodies and culture hounds, Portland, Maine, is filled with award-winning restaurants, museums, breweries, art galleries, boutiques and more. Spend some time wandering the cobblestone streets of the historical Old Port, where boats line the harbor and seafood is aplenty. Or, venture southeast of the city to Cape Elizabeth to snap a picture of the iconic Portland Head Light – one of the most photographed lighthouses in America – and hike or picnic in Fort Williams Park.

A popular summertime island retreat for New Englanders and politicians alike, Martha's Vineyard appeals to all types of travelers. Fly or take the ferry from the mainland to explore the Massachusetts island's six towns and numerous beaches. Don't miss the colorful gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, the fresh seafood in the village of Menemsha or the boutiques in Vineyard Haven. While the island's eastern side is walkable, it's best to take a bus or car to the dramatic Aquinnah Cliffs on the more rugged western side.

Many pass through Bar Harbor on their way to Acadia National Park , but this charming seaside town is definitely worth a stop. Located on Maine's Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is bursting with locally owned boutiques, fresh seafood restaurants and gorgeous coastal views. Walk the scenic Shore Path for views of Frenchman Bay and multimillion-dollar mansions, or take a ride on a lobster boat to learn about the craft firsthand. While the town is popular in summer, its smaller crowds and vibrant foliage in autumn make it equally appealing during the shoulder season.

For a quintessential New England getaway, head to this Massachusetts peninsula known for its laid-back vibe. Vacationers can bask in the sun somewhere along Cape Cod National Seashore's 40 miles of sand before digging into a plate of fried clams or retreating to a quaint bed-and-breakfast . When planning your visit, keep in mind that each Cape Cod town is a little different. You'll find upscale shops in Chatham, historical landmarks in Sandwich, sky-high sand dunes in Wellfleet and a thriving LGBTQ community in Provincetown. Cape Cod's ample restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and ocean views are enough to keep you busy for days.

In the mood for an adventure? This more than 47,000-acre national park in Maine, one of the state's top attractions , is perfect for hiking, biking and rock climbing, among other outdoor activities. Your top priority should be to hike 1,530-foot-tall Cadillac Mountain – it's the first spot in the country to catch a sunrise from October to March. If you're not a fan of hiking, rent a car and make the drive along the 27-mile Park Loop Road. You'll pass the dramatic edge of Otter Cliffs and the cave at Thunder Hole, as well as other wonders visible from the road's pull-off observation areas.

The largest city in New England is fairly compact and walkable – perfect for sightseeing in just a few days. History buffs can follow the Freedom Trail to learn about the American Revolution before stopping for a beer at the historic Bell in Hand Tavern. Foodies can get a taste of Italy in the North End or indulge in some fresh oysters and clam chowder in the Seaport District. Meanwhile, fashionistas can browse the many shops on Newbury Street, and souvenir hunters can visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace. No matter your interests, your trip to Boston would not be complete without visiting Fenway Park.

Despite its small size, Nantucket has no shortage of activities. Board a ferry from Cape Cod or fly into the island's airport to enjoy a unique Massachusetts vacation. Visit Cisco Brewers for private brewery, vineyard and distillery tours, or simply enjoy the food trucks and live music. While Nantucket is a walkable island, many visitors enjoy renting bikes or mopeds to explore the area, especially tiny Siasconset Village. You'll want to also save time for watching the sunset at Madaket Beach on the island's west coast.

It doesn't get more relaxing than Kennebunkport, Maine. You can lay on sandy beaches, stroll through quaint boutiques and sample local specialties like lobster rolls, oysters and blueberry pies. There are also plenty of unique ways to see the town, including on foot during a food tour, by boat while on a lobster boat tour and by trolley with Intown Trolley. Plus, you can stop along the way to take pictures of Walker's Point – the Bush family compound. Keep your eyes peeled for other famous faces, as Kennebunkport is a popular celebrity vacation destination.

Although Stowe's small-town charm and dramatic vistas make it a beautiful destination year-round, snow lovers won't want to miss this Vermont retreat in all its winter glory. Stowe is dubbed the "Ski Capital of the East," but this New England hideaway is also ideal for snowboarding, snowshoeing and dog sledding. If you'd rather visit during the warmer months, consider hiking the Stowe Recreation Path or driving the Auto Toll Road to the top of Mount Mansfield for unbeatable views of the Adirondack Mountains. Whichever season you prefer, fans of "The Sound of Music" can't miss a visit to Stowe's Trapp Family Lodge.

If historic walking tours, charming bistros and tax-free shopping describe your ideal New England weekend, book your ticket to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, today. Take a narrated boat tour of the Isles of Shoals, or spend the day exploring Market Square, the gem of downtown Portsmouth. For a breath of fresh air, sink your toes in the sand at nearby Wallis Sands State Beach or stroll through the gardens at Prescott Park. Time your visit for summer to attend the Prescott Park Arts Festival, which transforms this beautiful green space into a vibrant outdoor performance venue.

Whether you're looking for a quiet mountain hideaway or an activity-filled weekend, potential abounds in the White Mountains. Designated as a protected national forest, the White Mountains cover parts of New Hampshire and Maine. Take the scenic route along the Kancamagus Highway, and consider stopping at a campground along the way. If you're visiting in summer, hike, drive or take the Mount Washington Cog Railway to the summit of its namesake for spectacular views. In winter, shred powder on some of the best ski slopes in New England before curling up with a cup of hot cocoa at a bed-and-breakfast.

Walk any direction on Block Island and you'll end up at a free public beach. This oasis off the southern coast of Rhode Island features 17 miles of shoreline, as well as old-fashioned cottages and two historical lighthouses. Take in sweeping ocean views from Mohegan Bluffs, or look for animals at Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. If you want an adrenaline rush, try snorkeling in the island's crystal-clear waters, biking around its picturesque perimeter or hiking its Clayhead Trail. A quick ferry ride from the mainland will take you to Block Island, making it an easy weekend retreat.

The rolling mountains of the Berkshires attract everyone from artists to nature lovers to city dwellers looking for an escape. This region of western Massachusetts has long been a culture and history hub. Charming towns like Great Barrington and North Adams draw visitors with their quaint main streets and historic homes. The town of Lenox is home to the famous Tanglewood concert venue, while the town of Pittsfield boasts many theaters and art galleries. You'll find a variety of festivals to attend in summer, vivid foliage in fall and plenty of skiing in winter.

Situated in western Maine's Carrabassett Valley, Sugarloaf Mountain has a lot to offer travelers looking for an exciting weekend getaway in New England. In winter, enjoy a range of cold-weather activities – including cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing and more – at the mountain's namesake ski resort. In summer, take advantage of the warmer temperatures by mountain biking, zip lining or hiking sections of the famous Appalachian Trail.

About 20 miles northeast of Boston, this Massachusetts town is best known for the witch trials of the late 17th century, which you can learn all about on a historical walking tour. For an even bigger dose of local culture, visit in October when the town hosts Halloween-themed events all month long. You'd also be remiss to skip top sights like the Peabody Essex Museum and The House of the Seven Gables, the setting of Nathaniel Hawthorne's 1851 novel of the same name.

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17 Memorable New England Day Trips Perfect for Every Season

Looking to explore new places without the time and cost of an overnight stay? New England day trips are the perfect hassle-free way to discover unfamiliar towns and destinations while creating lasting memories. You’d be surprised by the interesting things you can find just a short drive from home. It’s a convenient travel option that won’t kill your car’s mileage or your budget. 

Growing up as a Rhode Island native, I’ve taken my fair share of day trips throughout New England, making for some of my best childhood adventures and cherished family time. Using my expertise, I’ve created a list of the best New England day trip destinations perfect for a long weekend or spontaneous excursion.

Most of these New England day trips are within a two-hour drive from central Massachusetts. Whether it’s enjoying a scenic drive to Brattleboro, Vermont, or revisiting American history at Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts, the opportunities are endless. 

New England Day Trips

Don’t know which location would suit you best? I’ve got you covered. Here are my top picks to help guide you on your next day trip. Let the fun begin. 

• Best for families: Mystic, CT
• Best for nature lovers: Berkshires, MA
• Best seaside day trip: Newport, RI
• Best for history lovers: Salem, MA or Plymouth, MA
• Best for relaxation: Litchfield, CT

Day Trips in Massachusetts

Most day trip destinations in Massachusetts are no more than a two hour drive from southern Vermont or New Hampshire, Boston, Providence, or Hartford.

Known for its spooky history, Salem Massachusetts offers a great experience for Halloween lovers or those looking to immerse themselves in early American history. Fall is the ideal season to visit, with the leaves changing and lively parades and events. If busy crowds aren’t for you, the summer months are equally enchanting with waterfront views. Conveniently located an hour from central Massachusetts, this city attracts visitors from around the country. 

One of the main tourist attractions is the Salem Witch Museum , telling the history of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Along with the museum, Salem features the Salem Witch Trails Memorial , honoring the victims, and The Witch House , once home to Judge Jonathan Corwin, who had an active role in the trials (and recognizable from the movie Hocus Pocus.)

Additionally, the Pickering Wharf Marina is a beautiful spot to dine by the water at restaurants like Sea Level Oyster Bar, Finz Seafood & Grill, and Village Tavern. The area has a variety of shopping opportunities and evening entertainment. Before heading home, stop by Goodnight Fatty for delicious freshly baked cookies, soft-serve ice cream, or a combination of both. It’s the perfect way to end the day and treat yourself for all the walking. Be warned, the bakery operates exclusively on Fridays through Sundays.

Read more: Bewitching Things to do in Salem, MA

Boston stands as a beloved city, renowned for its esteemed education, historical sites, successful sports teams, and delicious cuisine. No matter your interests, Boston has something for everyone to enjoy. The best time to explore the city’s signature highlights is from late spring to early fall, offering the perfect temperature before the start of New England’s unpredictable weather.

A Boston Duck Tour is an excellent way to kick off your trip, providing an introduction to the city. The tour features both land and water sightseeing, offering insight into major attractions. Sites include a visit to the historic Old State House, the Charles River, and America’s first public park and botanical garden. After the tour concludes, consider revisiting your favorite locations to get a closer look. For a memorable dining experience, head to Boston Burger Company for lunch or dinner.

This local gem’s extensive menu of juicy burgers like the Green Monstah to freak frappes like Dough My Goodness . With multiple locations across the Boston area, you can easily savor their flavors no matter where you are. If you’re on the go, Faneuil Hall Marketplace stands as another must-visit destination. Stop to shop at boutiques, explore the diverse food options at Quincy Market (my favorite is Mmmac N’ Cheese), and watch lively street performances. Faneuil Hall adds flavor to your day and is a welcoming all-in-one environment.

Surrounded by beautiful homes, rich American history, and friendly locals, Plymouth Massachusetts is the ideal getaway for history nerds, seafood lovers, and anyone eager to learn more about culture. September through November is the optimal time to visit this coastal town to take in fall foliage and explore well-preserved artifacts.

A prominent attraction drawing many to Plymouth is The Mayflower ll . This historical replica mimics the boat that transported the Pilgrims from England to America. Take a tour above and below deck to see the challenging conditions travelers endured during their 66 days at sea. You can also visit the Plimoth Patuxet Museum to learn about the day-to-day life of Patuxet people or stroll through a recreation of a 17th-century Colonial village.

In close proximity, Plymouth Rock stands as a landmark where the Pilgrims stepped ashore. Embraced by the beautiful harbor, this iconic rock is a site worth seeing, especially if you happen to be in the area. Enjoy waterfront shopping at Miller’s Country Store , renowned for its saltwater taffy, or savor fresh seafood takeout like clam chowder from Wood’s Seafood , Plymouth is an unforgettable destination. 

Read more: Things to do in Plymouth, MA

Cape Cod is a popular summertime destination known to have some of New England’s best beaches. From nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries to small towns and shopping, Cape Cod offers a range of experiences for those who love the outdoors or those looking for some fresh seafood. Just under two hours from central Massachusetts, a day trip to Cape Cod guarantees an adventure that will leave you eager for more. 

Cape Cod’s sandy beaches are the perfect way to relax. If you’re looking for spots to sunbathe, Coast Guard, Head of the Meadow, Nauset, and Marconi Beach are the best for getting a tan. For those not interested in soaking in the sun, Race Point and Herring Cove are better options, common for water-related activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. These beaches are part of The Cape Cod National Seashore , covering 40,000 acres with stunning landscapes, dunes, and a refreshing ocean breeze. It’s the perfect paradise for watching the sunset or sunrise.

Downtown Provincetown is another lively option to explore, coming to life with shopping and dining, it will just take a bit longer to get there. Stop by Commercial Street to take home a souvenir and grab a sweet treat at Fudge Factory which has an assortment of candies, chocolates, and even icecream. Finish off the day with dinner at Jimmy’s HideAway for fresh sea catches or Provincetown Brewing Co. for craft beer and burgers.

Read more: Favorite things to do on Cape Cod

Old Sturbridge Village

Explore New England during the 1830s at Old Sturbridge Village . Spanning more than 200 acres of land with 40 historical buildings, this museum offers an immersive experience for both children and adults. To avoid crowds, late spring is the ideal time to visit, with warm temperatures for walking along the nature trails and exhibits.

December is also a great time as the museum offers special events like Christmas by Candlelight where guests can join in on holiday traditions. Just a half-hour drive from central Massachusetts, Old Sturbridge Village encourages guests to take part in hands-on learning. 

Get a glimpse into the early years of the nation, where you can see the day-to-day lives of small-town villagers. Costumed historians will teach you about village life, from farmers to blacksmiths, all ready to answer your questions. Don’t miss the opportunity to check out the countryside, home to a variety of farm animals including cows, goats, chickens, pigs, and more.

Enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride and savor a delicious meal at either the Bullard Tavern Cafe, with options like paninis, salads, and chicken tenders, or the Ox & Yoke Cafe, known for its baked goods. If you’re looking for a change of scenery outside the village, stop by Publick House for classic comfort food or Enrico’s Brick Oven Pizzeria for a hot slice. 

Located in the heart of central Massachusetts, Worcester is seeing a renaissance with the new baseball stadium, breweries, and restaurants downtown. With a blend of cultural attractions, historical landmarks, and scenic parks, Worcester offers an array of experiences to choose from. While visitors are welcomed year-round, I recommend planning a visit during the summer season to take advantage of the warm weather and daylight.

Green Hill Farm Park is a great spot to meet farm animals such as llamas, miniature horses, and alpacas or enjoy a summer barbeque at one of its picnic tables. The EcoTarium is another great option to explore nature and wildlife further. This engaging science museum is an interactive learning environment expanding across three floors of exhibits, ranging from live animal habitats to a planetarium. Its 45-acre campus is designed to captivate visitors of all ages. The museum also features an outdoor park, train rides, and a history collection of more than 50,000 species.

If shopping is on your agenda, look no further than Crompton Collective , where locally crafted treasures await. From an extensive collection of jewelry and home decor to vintage clothing, this unique shop is stocked with items waiting to find the right home. Finish your trip with an American classic, hot dogs, and ice-cold chocolate milk from George’s Coney Island . This Worcester landmark has been around for generations and is loved for its old-fashioned diner style. The giant neon sign marks the spot for quick, delicious, and budget-friendly food.

Recognized as America’s oldest seaport, Gloucester, Massachusetts, draws visitors to its coastal community with its rich fishing history, stunning beaches, and delicious seafood. Whether you’re a fisherman, outdoor adventurer, or foodie, this day trip offers experiences to fit your interests. Located just about an hour and a half away from central Massachusetts, Gloucester is an ideal destination to explore the region’s fishing and whaling history. Given its seaside setting, Gloucester is best to visit during the summer season. 

Whale watching is a top attraction for visitors to Gloucester. Both Seven Seas and Cape Ann whale watching present the opportunity to see marine animals in their natural habitat. As many whale species migrate to Gloucester’s shores, whale watching offers an excellent way to get a better understanding of marine mammals’ behavior. Humpback whales are commonly found alongside potential sightings of dolphins and sharks.

Take a break from sailing the seas to explore the Eastern Point Lighthouse . Along the rocky shoreline, the lighthouse is a breathtaking sight to see. While the lighthouse itself is fenced off, you can walk along the seawall for a closer look. The view gives a glimpse of the Boston skyline, making for a great view to capture photos, especially during sunset. Parking is available for $10.

Grab a bite to eat at Seaport Grille for lunch or dinner. Their menu includes options that cater to everyone’s palates, featuring dishes like mouthwatering lobster mac and cheese, scallops, and margarita pizza. 

Read more: Things to do in Gloucester, MA

Springfield

Springfield is a large yet quiet city that is surrounded by American history, artistic expression, and sports culture. Best for basketball lovers and families, Springfield serves as a great day trip. Located an hour away from central Massachusetts, its accessible location ensures visitors can explore its attractions year-round. I suggest planning a visit during the fall season to watch the leaves change color and to take in the crisp autumn air. 

Known as the birthplace of basketball, Springfield is home to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame , a must-visit destination for fans of men’s and women’s college and professional basketball. Spread across three floors, the hall showcases a collection of jerseys, shoes, and informative videos about the sport’s history. One noteworthy exhibit is dedicated to Kobe Bryant, designed by wife, Vanessa. After exploring, guests can practice their skills on the hall’s basketball and browse the gift shop for memorabilia.  

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss is another captivating experience for visitors in Springfield. Transporting guests back to childhood, this museum will make you feel like you’re inside the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss’s famous stories. With colorful rooms and life-sized statues, the Seuss Museum appeals to more than just children.

A ticket purchase grants you access to five museums, including The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Muesuem, George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum, Springfield Science Muesuem, Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts, and Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History.

Before heading home, indulge in a delicious burger at Plan B or enjoy the community vibe and great food at White Lion Brewery . You may also want to make a pitstop at the Yankee Candle Village to stock up on gifts and explore the elaborate Christmas village.

Read more: Things to do in and near Springfield, MA

This mountainous retreat is loved by many New Englanders for its natural beauty and abundance of outdoor adventures, but it is also known for its arts and culture. Whether you’re drawn to skiing, hiking, or art museums, the Berkshires make for a remarkable day trip experience.

Summer welcomes outdoor concerts and symphony performances, while spring showcases blooming flowers and hiking trails. In winter, the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing, skiing, snow tubing, or cozy evenings by the fireside. Fall invites visitors to pumpkin patches and apple orchards. Located just an hour and a half from central Massachusetts, the Berkshires are the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a reset.

Those looking for art and culture and plan a stop at Edith Wharton’s The Mount or spend a day engaged with the immersive contemporary art at Mass MoCA . If you prefer to be active, take on the treetop aerial adventure course at Ramblewild or climb Monument Mountain .

In the winter, Jiminy Peak offers skiing, snow shoeing, and a thrilling mountain coaster. Enjoy snow tubing or night skiing at Bousquet Mountain and take on the slopes at the local’s favorite, Berkshires East .

If you’re feeling hungry, stop by Baba Louie’s in Great Barrington for sourdough pizza, pasta, or salads. Craving something sweet? Chocolate Springs in Lenox is the shop to cure your craving with a tempting selection of treats, including chocolate-covered pretzels, marshmallows, truffles, and more.

Read more: Things to do in the Berkshires with kids

Day Trips in Connecticut

An hour-and-a-half drive from central Massachusetts, Mystic Connecticut, is a great day trip spot for family fun and historians. Home to some of Connecticut’s most visited attractions, this charming town boasts a plethora of shopping, dining, and interactive experiences. Travelers come to its scenic shores to explore the vibrant streets, vineyards, and neighboring towns.

Step back in time and experience life in a 19th-century village at Mystic Seaport or enjoy shopping at the forty small shops and eateries at Olde Mistick Village .

Nearby, the Mystic Aquarium awaits, where you can witness marine life including penguins, beluga whales, and sharks. The aquarium features both indoor and outdoor exhibits, some of which allow you to touch fish like stingrays and crustaceans.

Start your trip with something sweet from Sift Bakery (featured in the Hallmark Movie Mystic Christmas ) and end it at Red 36, an outdoor restaurant and bar overlooking the Mystic River, for an all-around perfect day.

Read more: Things to do in Mystic, CT with kids

Litchfield, Connecticut is a small town located within a two-hour drive from central Massachusetts. Surrounded by farms, nature reserves, historic inns, and wineries, it creates the perfect space for relaxation and serenity. This countryside is a haven for introverts and can be used as a romantic escape for couples seeking uninterrupted quality time. The most popular to visit is during the early summer to early fall months, drawing people with its sunny days and warm temperatures.

Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy is an excellent starting point for your trip, home to more than 80 species of rare and endangered birds. Spanning 150 acres, this conservation works to protect more than 400 birds year-round, while conserving wetlands and educating visitors on the importance of protecting feathered friends. Frolick through the fields and learn about the adorable ducklings’ habitat. You could also hike up to the top of Mt. Tom in Litchfield to find some of the prettiest fall views in Connecticut from the old stone tower at the summit.

The Litchfield Distillery is another attraction to visit during your trip. Sample some of the Baker brothers’ 18 award-winning spirits, ranging from vodka and whiskey to bourbon and gin. Enjoy a complimentary tour to get a behind-the-scenes look into how they make their drinks and taste-test different flavors to find your favorite. On certain weekends, you can also enjoy live music outside at nearby Hopkins Vineyards .

For a quick bite to eat, visit The Pantry for baked goods, sandwiches, and salads, or sit down at the Market Place Tavern , in the oldest building in town. For delicious ice cream, line up at Arethusa Dairy for fresh, homemade deliciousness.

Day Trips in Rhode Island

Discover the hidden gems tucked within Rhode Island’s creative capital, Providence. Filled with prestigious universities, historic districts, and a talented artistic community, this small city carries metropolitan power without the overly crowded streets. Located within a 45-60 minute drive from central Massachusetts, Providence is a destination that attracts foodies and art lovers.

As a college student familiar with the Providence area, I recommend visiting during the spring when the weather warms up, just in time for events like WaterFire or enjoying a stroll through scenic landscapes.

A day trip to Providence with kids calls for a visit to Roger Willams Park Zoo , one of the oldest zoos in the country. With more than 100 species from across the globe, including monkeys, giraffes, and cheetahs, the zoo offers an immersive wildlife experience. Little kids will also enjoy the Providence Children’s Museum .

Another highlight for many visitors is the RISD Museum . Co-founded with the Rhode Island School of Design, this art museum has a collection of thousands of artworks ranging from modern art made by students to ancient textiles. With its rich history and diverse pieces from artists around the world, the RISD Museum makes for an educational adventure through art and culture.

For authentic Italian cuisine, head to “Little Italy,” commonly known as Federal Hill. This Italian neighborhood is decorated with Italian flags to represent its cultural heritage. Here you’ll find fantastic restaurants and bakeries serving traditional Italian goods like gnocchi and pastries like cannolis. One of my personal favorites is Costantino’s Venda Bar & Ristorante.

Read more: Things to do in Providence, RI

Known as the “City by the Sea”, Newport is a popular summer destination for its sandy beaches, yacht-filled harbors, and relaxation. Surrounded by some of the state’s wealthiest residential properties and beautiful beach houses, Newport will transport you to island time the moment you cross the Newport Bridge.

Just an hour and a half from central Massachusetts, Newport makes an unforgettable day trip, whether you’re a history nerd or an avid beachgoer. Surprisingly, Newport isn’t just a summer hotspot, turning into a winter wonderland with holiday lights, festivals, and plenty of opportunities for ice skating. 

A must-see attraction during your visit to Newport is the Newport Mansions . Built during the Gilded Age, these historic estates have more than 250 years of American history. Each mansion offers a glimpse into the luxury lives of the families who once lived in them, through its interior design and astounding architecture. The Breakers is one of the most popular mansions followed by Marble House, The Elms, and Rosecliff.

Bowen’s Wharf is another Newport specialty that offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re looking to shop or try one of their exquisite dining options, the wharf’s friendly environment helps you immerse yourself in Newport’s lifestyle. With its old-town charm, Bowen’s Wharf is great for sunset views over the marina, refreshing drinks, and fresh seafood. This is also the spot to jump on board a sailing vessel for a ride around the harbor. End your day with a quick walk to Kilwin’s on Thames Street for some homemade ice cream.

Read more: Things to do in Newport, Rhode Island

Beloved for its state parks, coastal cliffs, and marshlands, Jamestown serves as a wonderful destination for a scenic day trip. Its seemingly quiet roads offer the perfect opportunity for a relaxing day by the water. From swimming and biking to fishing and kayaking, this island has a rich marine history and natural beauty that make it a must-visit destination, especially during the summer months. A little under an hour and a half away from central Massachusetts, Jamestown is for anyone who appreciates the great outdoors.

Beavertail State Park is a staple of Jamestown. Home to the third oldest lighthouse in the United States, it has played a crucial role in guiding ships and sailors to safety. The rocky coastline surrounding the lighthouse is great for hiking and climbing, although watch your step because the rocks can be slippery. Watch sailboats pass by, fly a kite, or bring a picnic to enjoy as you admire the view. 

Fort Wetherill State Park is another popular attraction found on 100-foot-high granite cliffs. Originally built as a military fort to protect the Narragansett Bay, Fort Wetherill now invites the public to explore its historic grounds. The park’s old war bunkers are decorated with colorful graffiti art, adding personality. Bring your fishing poles to cast out along the saltwater shorelines or a camera to capture memories of this beautiful town.

Work up an appetite? Visit JB’s on the Water for a classic New England lobster roll or Slice of Heaven Cafe for coffee and pastry.

Day Trips in New Hampshire

Portsmouth New Hampshire is a favored location for its historical sites, waterfront eats, and tax-free shopping opportunities. Just an hour and a half drive from central Massachusetts, Portsmouth invites visitors to enjoy a night out on the town or a leisurely day exploring the beautiful scenery.

Whether you’re a food enthusiast, trailblazer, or a lover of learning, Portsmouth makes for a memorable day trip. The spring and summer months are the best times for seasonal activities.

The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is the start of Portsmouth’s rich history, home to the USS Albacore, a groundbreaking creation by the U.S. Navy for testing modern submarine features. Renowned for setting an underwater world speed record, the vessel invites guests to explore its interior. Move from room to room listening to the audio stations including crew member stories about their experiences at sea.

If you’re looking to get some fresh air, Prescott Park is the place to be. Spanning ten acres, the park is surrounded by trees and showcases a stunning garden with vibrant flower beds. Visitors can enjoy a view of the Memorial Bridge while unwinding on a bench or strolling along the pathways. If you are visiting with kids, you will want to spend time exploring the nearby Strawbery Banke Museum or walking the Portsmouth Black History Trail .

When you get hungry, you have plenty of options to choose from, including popular Flatbread Company for wood-grilled pizza or Row 34 for fresh oysters and seafood.

Read more: Things to do in Portsmouth, NH

Day Trips in Maine

Portland, Maine packs a whole lot into its three-mile-long peninsula. Despite being smaller than some other cities on the East Coast, there are plenty of reasons to travel up north, including the history, landmarks, artisan breweries, and delicious food .

Portland, which is only two hours away from central Massachusetts, comes alive with a packed social calendar, especially in the summer months of June through August. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, lone explorer, or a family looking for excitement, Portland has you covered.

No trip to Portland is complete without two things, a stop at Portlandhead Light for the view of the lighthouse and to scramble on the rocks, and a lobster roll. You can even try to catch some yourself on a lobster boat tour (and then the Portland Lobster Company will cook it up for you if you get lucky!)

Want to stay out of the crowd and save money? No issue, the Portland Freedom Trail offers a free, self-guided tour passing thirteen significant locations one being the local Underground Railroad. Kids will enjoy Children’s Museum and Theater of Maine , while adults may want to join a Portland beer tour .

After a long day, Portland’s Bar Futo , is a great dining spot that serves a variety of skewers and tiny plates such as charred shishitos and Maine uni with potato mochi. They specialize in Japanese binchotan cooking. Not to mention, the Big Mac skewers will leave your mouth watering! Of course, kids might prefer a stop at Duckfat for those amazing french fries and milkshakes.

Read more: Things to do in Portland, Maine

Day Trips in Vermont

Brattleboro.

An hour and a half from central Massachusetts, Brattleboro, Vermont, is tucked away in the charming countryside along the banks of the Connecticut River and attracts a wide range of artists and creatives. Travelers can (and should) flock to Brattleboro in all four seasons; spring is sugar season and summer bring ideal weather, while crisp fall vistas showcase the beautiful foliage and the winter months bring snowshoeing and ice fishing.

Downtown Brattleboro is bursting with opportunities to express your creative side with workshops for all ages and interests including woodworking at Hatchspace , pottery at the Wheelhouse Clay Center , and glass blowing at Fire Arts Vermont . You can even try your hand at circus arts or watch a performance at the New England Center for the Circus Arts .

If you are looking for local products, the Robb Family Farm is the place to get maple syrup, as well as maple sugar candy and maple cream. During the summer months, take home fresh fruits and vegetables at the Brattleboro Farmers Market. Stop into Tavernier Chocolates for hand-crafted chocolates showcasing local ingredients. Or pop into the Grafton Village Cheese shop for a wonderful cheese tasting.

Work it all off by hiking the trails at the Retreat Farm and enjoy the food truck events they host in the summer. Finish it all up with a cold, local craft beer at either Whetstone Brewery or Hermit Thrush .

Fuel up for your adventures or car ride home at The Marina. This waterside restaurant offers canopy-shaded seating on the outdoor deck and water views are available from almost every seat inside as well. A juicy burger and seafood specialties like Rachael Ray’s beloved grilled, lime-marinated shrimp are among the many options available on its vast menu.

Need more ideas?

• Best kid-friendly museums in New England
• 110 Things to do in New England with kids
• Massachusetts bucket list
• Rhode Island bucket list

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Marissa is a lifelong Rhode Island resident and is currently a senior at Johnson & Wales University studying digital media and communications. She has a passion for storytelling and enjoys bringing experiences to life through her writing. Marissa has also written for Rhode Island Monthly and WPRI 12, and is the Media and Entertainment Editor for the Campus Herald at Johnson & Wales University.

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Publish Date: February 10, 2024

16 thoughts on “17 Memorable New England Day Trips Perfect for Every Season”

How about surfing day trip in Narragansett? A lot of people are saying that Narragansett offers the best surf in New England so it’s worth checking out. There are also a lot of day trips that you can do in and around Narragansett is surfing is not your thing. 🙂

My daughter tried surfing there this summer and loved it.

My hubby and I have wanted to do a New England raodtrip for quite awhile – these look like a whole bunch of fun spots to hit!

Let me know if you do as I would be happy to make some great food recommendations too.

Great list of ideas for day trips! We haven’t done Old Sturbridge Village yet and we need to get on it! We’d also love to see Salem! I love exploring in our own backyard! So much to see.

New England is so rich in history and outdoor adventure for sure!

The only one we haven’t visited is Old Sturbridge. Great list otherwise! I grew up in Plymouth and now we drive between Newport RI and Plymouth every summer week!

Any favorite restaurants in either?

Quito’s seafood in Bristol. Down on Thames St.over looks the water. So yummy!

We actually did a few of these when my son was 3 and I was pregnant with my daughter. Seems a lifetime ago, and I’d love to go back and tour New England anew! Great suggestions!

GREAT LIST! I’ve been wanting to plan a few staycation trips for spring break in a couple of weeks, and this is going to be super helpful!

Cool — maybe you can suggest some others in CT for a summer list.

Honestly you ROCK! I have started to plan for Summer road trips and was looking for 1 to 2 day trips to enjoy with the family.

I am so glad! Hope this helps. I think I’ll do another for summer.

What a great list! We have been to a more than a few and agree – great places. And love the Jamestown idea – that might be our next trip! We also like Providence (agree – fantastic food) and have spent lovely days in Newport, RI, too.

Newport is definitely a good one, although a bit more fun as it gets warmer.

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130+ Day Trips and Road Trips for Families in New England

All within 2-3 hours of Lowell!

Here’s a list of family-friendly day trips in New England that will keep the kids entertained all year long! There’s so much to see and do in Massachusetts and our neighboring states of New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, Rhode Island and Connecticut, and lots of fun destinations can be reached in 2 hours or less!

To stay in the KNOW, sign up for our FREE weekly email newsletter  HERE ! Each week, you will receive a new list of family-friendly events in the Greater Lowell area plus great local family resources, guides, recipes, crafts and more.

Enjoy the Beach

Salisbury Beach , Salisbury MA

Crane Beach , Ipswich MA

Seacoast NH Beaches ( Hampton Beach )

A Day at the Museum

Battleship Cove , Fall River MA

Discovery Museum , Acton MA 

Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art , Amherst MA  

Heritage Museum and Gardens , Sandwich MA 

New Bedford Whaling Museum , New Bedford MA

New England Pirate Museum , Salem MA  

Peabody Essex Museum , Salem MA

Salem Witch Museum , Salem MA 

Wenham Museum , Wenham MA 

Children’s Museum of NH , Dover NH

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center , Concord NH 

Seacoast Science Center , Rye NH 

SEE Science Center , Manchester NH 

Providence Children’s Museum , Providence RI  

Dinosaur State Park and Arboretum , Rocky Hill, CT 

Imagine Nation Museum , Bristol CT  

Get Outdoors!

 MA State Parks

NH State Parks

ME State Parks

VT State Parks

RI State Parks

Amusement Parks

Edaville Family Theme Park , Carver MA 

Six Flags New England , Agawam MA

Canobie Lake Park , Salem NH

Clark’s Trading Post , Lincoln NH

Mel’s Funway Park , Litchfield NH

Santa’s Village , Jefferson NH

Storyland , Glen NH

Lake Compounce , Bristol CT 

Quassy Amusement Park , Middlebury CT 

Funtown Splashtown USA , Saco ME

Water Parks

Breezy Picnic Grounds and Waterslides , Douglas MA 

Water Park of New England , Danvers MA

Great Wolf Lodge , Fitchburg MA 

Hurricane Harbor Water Park , Agawam MA 

Water Wizz , East Wareham MA 

Castaway Island Water Park at Canobie Lake Park , Salem NH

Candia Springs Adventure Park , Candia NH 

Water Country , Portsmouth NH  

Whale’s Tale Waterpark , Lincoln NH  

Lake Compounce Crocodile Cove , Bristol CT 

Quassy Beach and Saturation Station , Middlebury CT 

Animals & Wild Things

The Butterfly Place , Westford MA 

Buttonwood Park Zoo , New Bedford MA 

Capron Park Zoo , Attleboro MA 

Davis Farmland , Sterling MA

EcoTarium , Worcester MA

Franklin Park Zoo , Boston MA 

Look Park , Florence MA 

Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens , Deerfield MA

New England Aquarium , Boston MA 

Southwick’s Zoo , Mendon MA 

Stone Zoo , Stoneham MA 

The Zoo in Forest Park , Springfield MA 

Roger Williams Park Zoo , Providence RI 

York’s Wild Kingdom , York Beach ME 

Destination Cities/Towns

Deerfield MA  

Gloucester and Rockport MA

Newburyport MA

Portsmouth NH

Weirs Beach NH

Kennebunkport, York & Ogunquit ME

Block Island RI

Make History Come Alive

Freedom Trail , Boston MA 

Hancock Shaker Village , Pittsfield MA 

Lowell National Historical Park , Lowell MA 

Minute Man National Historical Park , Lincoln MA 

Old Sturbridge Village , Sturbridge MA 

Pioneer Village , Salem MA 

Plimouth Plantation , Plymouth MA 

Canterbury Shaker Village , Canterbury NH 

Strawbery Banke , Portsmouth NH 

Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Edaville Family Theme Park , Carver MA  

Larz Anderson Auto Museum , Brookline MA

Conway Scenic Railroad , North Conway Village, NH

Hobo Railroad , Lincoln NH

Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad , Weirs Beach NH

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat , Essex CT 

Railroad Museum of New England , Thomaston CT 

New England Air Museum , Windsor Locks CT 

Seashore Trolley Museum , Kennebunkport ME

deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum , Lincoln MA 

Garden in the Woods , Framingham MA 

Green Animals Topiary Gardens , Portsmouth RI 

Tower Hill Botanical Garden , Boylston MA 

Farms & Orchards

See our Fall Farm Guide   for local orchards, pumpkin patches and corn mazes

Belkin Family Lookout Farm , Natick MA 

Berlin Farms , Berlin MA 

Gore Place , Waltham MA 

Great Brook Farm State Park , Carlisle MA 

Mass Audubon Drumlin Farm and Wildlife Sanctuary , Lincoln MA 

Smolak Farms , Andover MA  

Charmingfare Farm , Candia NH 

Applecrest Farm Orchards , Hampton Falls NH 

Outdoor Adventures (ziplining, alpine slide, treetop canopy)

Berkshire East Mountain Resort , Charlemont MA 

Jiminy Peak , Hancock MA 

RambleWild Adventure Park, Lanesborough MA 

TreeTop Adventures , Canton MA 

Boundless Adventures , Berlin MA 

Zoar Outdoor , Charlemont MA 

Gunstock Adventure Park , Gilford NH 

Alpine Adventures Zipline Canopy Tours , Lincoln NH 

Attitash Mountain Resort , Bartlett NH 

Bretton Woods Canopy Tour , Bretton Woods NH

Cranmore Mountain Resort , North Conway Village, NH

Loon Mountain Resort , Lincoln NH

Take Flight! Aerial Adventure Course and Zip Tour , Kittery ME 

Cruises & Maritime Adventures

Boston Harbor Cruises  

Whale Watches and Deep Sea Fishing , Gloucester MA

Isles of Shoals Ferry , Portsmouth NH 

Lake Winnipesaukee boat cruises  

Click on the map below to access our interactive Google Map that shows 130+ Day Trips and Road Trips, all within 2-3 hours (some much less) from Lowell MA!

Lowell Macaroni Kid is a free weekly newsletter and website focused on fun family events and information in the greater Lowell area. We gather together all kinds of local family events and activities each week, and add useful information about classes, family-focused businesses, book and product reviews, recipes, crafts, school and camp guides and more. We proudly serve 11,000+ families in Lowell, Dracut, Chelmsford, Westford, Tyngsboro, Dunstable, Littleton, Groton, Billerica, Tewksbury, and other surrounding communities. 

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Tessa D'Ippolito

Welcome to Macaroni KID Lowell! My name is Tessa D’Ippolito and I'm a local mom of 2 young kids. Macaroni Kid is an opportunity for me to share fun events, articles, and local guides with families in my communities. My goal is to become a local resource to parents, caregivers and local businesses - helping us all connect and find our family fun!. Email me at [email protected]

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7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary: The Perfect Fall Getaway

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Have you been dreaming of witch trials sites, fiery maple trees, and scenic rural drives? For fall lovers, one week exploring the vibrant foliage of New England is the ultimate bucket list experience. An adorer of autumn myself, I wrote the perfect 7 day New England road trip itinerary to fulfill your leaf peeping dreams.

This itinerary is inspired by my own road trip through New England last year, which included New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts. Although my home state of Ohio has gorgeous falls too and I’d already seen Massachusetts at peak coziness, I yearned to more deeply explore the hilly forests and farmland of the Northeastern United States. Sneaking in a lobster roll or two while revisiting Massachusetts wouldn’t hurt either!

New England’s compactness makes it easy navigate, while offering charming small towns, rewarding hiking trails, and coastal views. As this road trip covers three states, I’ve carefully planned this itinerary for the most efficient New England sightseeing route. Are you ready to get witchy in Salem, MA and cozy in Woodstock, VT? Let’s get into it.

Ultimate 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary

I have mapped out the below itinerary to further ease your navigation between these amazing New England destinations.

Related: 61 Awesome Bucket List Ideas for Your Best Fall Ever

Day 1: Massachusetts – Arrive Into Boston

This 7 day New England road trip itinerary kicks off in Boston, whose urban streets transform under autumn’s spell, particularly in the Beacon Hill neighborhood. If you are flying, you’ll land at Boston Logan International Airport, so grab a 10-minute Uber/Lyft into the city. Arriving either in the morning or the night before allows you to have a full day of sightseeing what they call “Beantown” .

The best thing to do during one day in Boston is to follow the Freedom Trail past sites significant to Boston’s Revolutionary War history. Either join a guided tour or simply follow the red line on the pavement from Boston Common. This self-guided app also provides an informative tour at your own pace.

Afterwards, stroll the boutiques and cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill or consume seasonal treats on the Underground Donut Tour .

Finish by dining at one of many Italian restaurants in Boston’s North End before turning in for the night. Don’t forget to stop in for a cannoli at Modern Pastry or a Boston cream donut at Bova .

Craving a spooky experience, but tired of walking? Take this Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour .

Suggested Stay: Courtyard by Marriott Boston Downtown/North Station

Day 2: Massachusetts – Salem, MA

No single 7 day New England itinerary would be complete without a visit to the Witch City, or Salem, MA, where the infamous 1692 witch trials took place. To make the 45-minute drive from Boston, pick up your rental car the morning of day two (we rented ours at the airport).

Note: If visiting during the super busy month of October, get into Salem by 9am to ensure you find parking and avoid traffic jams. An alternative is to stay in Boston for one more night and take a 30-minute train or ferry into Salem . I recommend booking a room at Courtyard by Marriott Boston Downtown/North Station to be close to both the train and Freedom Trail.

Here is the best way to spend one day (also consider following my Salem day trip itinerary ):

• Visit the Salem Witch Museum (purchase a timed entry ticket online)
• Stop into the Salem Witch House
• Stroll past the wand shops, fortune tellers, and apothecaries of Essex Street
• Take a spooky witch trials walking tour

For a nice dinner with lots of ambiance, dine at Ledger Restaurant . For less fuss and laid-back vibes, get a lobster roll and beer at The Lobster Shanty ; they serve delicious clam chowder too!

Suggested Stay: In Salem at the Hampton Inn Salem Boston or in Boston at the Courtyard by Marriott Boston Downtown/North Station

Related: 13 Best Things To Do In Salem , MA In October

Day 3: New Hampshire – Artist Bluff Trail

It’s time to get out of the city and into the White Mountains of New Hampshire, which deliver sweeping views over fall’s colorful tree canopies. On the morning of day three, depart from Massachusetts and drive about two hours north to Lincoln, New Hampshire. While there are plenty of hotels in and around Lincoln, you may opt to stay in a cozy cabin instead.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln East – White Mountains

You can find cabins all around the area, so I recommend doing a search on Airbnb and seeing what’s available during your travel dates. My husband and I stayed in this adorable dog friendly cabin in Wentworth, New Hampshire last year, where the stargazing looked like a sheet of glitter over the sky.

After settling in, it’s time for your first hike of the trip: the 1.5-mile Artist Bluff Trail in Franconia State Park. This steep loop trail leads to panoramic views over the fiery-colored treetops framing Echo Lake. For less climbing, take the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway just one mile away, which lifts you 4,080 feet to the peak of Cannon Mountain.

If you still have time and energy, also consider hiking the gorgeous two-mile Flume Gorge loop trail , which follows along an 800-foot natural gorge at the base of Mount Liberty. Just remember this trail has an entry fee of $18 online ( book here ) and $21 at the trailhead.

After hiking, visit a local brewery, like Rek-Lis Brewing Company , for dinner and drinks. As we were staying closer to Plymouth, NH, we stopped into Sole Track Brewing to share a tasting paddle. For dinner, we grabbed burgers at The Last Chair , a ski-themed brewery that had tasty burgers and peanut butter porter.

Day 4: New Hampshire – Kancamagus Highway

The next day in New Hampshire, you will experience the state’s most iconic leaf peeping adventure: the Kancamagus Highway . This 34.5-mile stretch of roadway between the towns of Lincoln and Conway leads past beautiful mountainscapes and other gorgeous natural scenery.

Keep in mind there are no gas stations along this route, so fill up before heading out. Also, you must pay $5 per day to park in White Mountain National Forest . You can simply put the cash or check in an envelope to leave at a drop box at the first stop along the highway.

Don’t be afraid to pull over frequently along the Kancamagus Highway. Otherwise, this enchanting stretch only takes about one hour to complete without stops.

Here are the must-see sights along the Kancamagus Highway, in order heading east:

• Otter Rocks
• Hancock Overlook
• Panoramic Overlooks
• Pemigewasset Overlook
• CL Graham Wangan Overlook
• Sugar Hill Scenic Vista
• Sabbaday Falls: Most popular hike along the way, only .5 mile trail that leads to a waterfall
• Russell-Colbath House
• Campney Fall: 3.1 miles out and back, .6 miles additional miles to reach the summit of Mount Chocorua, which has gorgeous 360-degree views
• Rocky Gorge: lovely in fall and nice place to picnic
• Lower Falls: this super short hike to a waterfall is the most popular stop of the drive
• Albany Covered Bridge

Stay overnight near Lincoln, NH again. If you are staying in a cabin, consider having a cookout or bonfire to make s’mores!

Otherwise, dine out at Moat Mountain Smokehouse and Brewery in North Conway before turning back to drive the Kancamagus Highway in reverse. You could also visit Woodstock Inn Brewery in North Woodstock upon completion of the drive.

Day 5: Vermont – Woodstock

The next morning, it’s time for the last leg of your trip: the friendly small towns of Vermont where even the automated speed signs scold you politely.

The drive to charming Woodstock (the one in Vermont, not New Hampshire) will only take about and hour and a half from Lincoln, NH. You could stay in a hotel in Woodstock or simply book an Airbnb in the surrounding area (we loved this adorable hobby farm ).

Recommended Hotel: The Village Inn of Woodstock

This route around Woodstock will be the delight of any 7 day New England road trip itinerary:

• Quechee Gorge: Visible from an overpass along Route 4, this 165-feet gorge (Vermont’s deepest) was formed by glaciers 13,000 year ago. You can park in a lot off Route 4 to quickly view the gorge or hike the Quechee Gorge Trail at Quechee State Park .
• The Skinny Pancake : A great breakfast/brunch stop in Quechee. I loved my savory crepe with apple, brie cheese, and a locally sourced blueberry compote.
• Woodstock: Explore the antique shops, cafes, and lovely covered bridges of this charming small town. Don’t forget that all parking is paid – even along the street!
• Billings Farm and Museum : For $17 you can explore the grounds and stables of this working farm tucked among the rolling hills. I purchased a small apple cider to sip as I strolled past dairy calls being milked, goats perched on top of fences, and horses grazing. Check their calendar for daily events.
• Woodstock Farmers Market: The perfect stop for locally produced products, like cheese and maple syrup.
• President Calvin Coolidge Historic Site : The site of several preserved buildings from Calvin Coolidge’s childhood home at Plymouth Notch, including his family homestead. Also see where the 30th president of the United States attended church, his father’s store, the post office, and Coolidge’s summer white house office inside of a dance hall.

Make a reservation to dine in downtown Woodstock at The Prince & The Pauper Restaurant or Santé .

Travel Savvy Tip

With the rise of social media, certain farms around the Woodstock area have become popular photo spots for Instagrammers. Sadly, this has escalated into a problem for local residents, with visitors clogging roads and trespassing onto private property.

Local governments have begun taking action, closing roads leading to Jenne Farm and Sleepy Hollow Farm during the month of October. Please respect these rules – there are plenty of other gorgeous locations all around Vermont to photograph!

Day 6: Vermont – Grafton

To get a true small town Vermont experience, drive one hour south of Woodstock to the tidy little village of Grafton. Grafton is especially pleasing during peak foliage season, when bright shades of red, orange, and yellow frame tall white church steeples and local shops.

However, don’t confuse Grafton’s impressive collection of well-preserved historic buildings for an open-air museum. This is a functioning, tight-knit community that still holds Gilmore-Girls-style town meetings to this day.

Just be sure to download any maps before heading out, as I found the town’s cell service to be weak to nonexistent.

Here are the best points of interest to check out in Grafton’s quaint and walkable town center:

• Learn about making maple syrup at Plummer’s Sugar House before buying some to take home with you.
• Hike a trail at the Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center . Grafton also has a cute welcome sign a bit further south down Grafton Road.
• Journey to the past at the Grafton Historical Society.
• Sample local cheese varieties at the Grafton Village Cheese Company .
• Browse locally produced gifts and home goods at Mercantile and adjacent Dover House Antiques.
• Wander into the Turner Hill Interpretive Center to learn the story of Alec Turner, who settled in Grafton and to raise his family after escaping slavery.
• Check out the Nature Museum to learn about native New England flora and fauna and wander down various nature trails.
• Discover unique copper sculptures honoring Northeastern Native Americans at Jud Hartman Gallery .

If you get hungry, the Grafton Village Store has you covered for coffee, pastries, and simple meals. For a sit-down dinner, book a reservation at the rustic Phelps Barn Pub or the cozier 1801 Tavern at The Grafton Inn .

Day 7: Complete Your New England Road Trip Itinerary at Boston Logan Airport

Just as the leaves must eventually fall to the ground, this New England road trip itinerary must reach its end too. Hopefully you had the fall foliage experience you’ve been dreaming about and are already planning your return trip!

If you drove from your house, then it’s time to make the trek back home. Otherwise, the drive from Woodstock, Vermont to Boston Logon International Airport will take about two and a half hours. I recommend arriving two to three hours before your flight to have time to drop off your rental car, check any bags, and find your gate.

Is Your New England Road Trip Itinerary Longer Than 7 Days?

There are so many options for New England itinerary add-on’s:

• Consider spending one extra day in Boston.
• Stay in Salem, MA for two days and day trip to nearby Danvers (formerly Salem Village) to see even more witch trials sites!
• Explore additional charming towns along the Vermont and New Hampshire border, including White River Junction, Windsor, Hanover, and Battlebro.
• Add an extra day to New Hampshire to take advantage of countless more hiking trails.
• Add an additional state: Maine! Explore trendy Portland, eat lobster rolls in Bar Harbor, or go hiking at Acadia National Park .

There you have it – the recipe for a dreamy and memorable 7 day road trip itinerary through New England. It’s the best combination of the bustling Atlantic coast of Massachusetts, the mountains of New Hampshire, and the farms of Vermont. You’ll see exactly why New England is beloved by leaf peepers, maple syrup addicts, and outdoor lovers alike!

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The ultimate 10-day new england road trip itinerary.

New England, with its quaint villages, idyllic landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering culinary experiences, is a treasure chest of delights waiting to be unlocked. From the rugged beauty of the Maine coastline to the vibrant, artistic vibe of Providence, this is a region that never fails to enchant.

If you’re up for the crisp smell of the ocean mingled with pine trees, the rustic charm of cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old houses, and the taste of the most succulent seafood freshly plucked from the sea, then you have to start planning your New England road trip!

» You might be interested in a shorter version with this Boston to Bar Harbor road trip itinerary.

» Looking for more travel inspiration in the United States ? See our U.S. Summer Vacation Ideas and 12 U.S. National Parks to Visit . Here are a few more fabulous U.S. Cities to visit .

The only real problem is deciding what to do and see and how to fit everything into ten days. Lucky for you, we’ve done this road trip multiple times and have passed through these states on a number of different trips, so we have the knowledge to help you plan an amazing time on one of the best road trips in the United States .

Table of Contents

Essential New England Road Trip Info

Comprising six states – Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont -there’s a lot of ground to cover during a New England driving tour. It’s not a small amount of driving, despite how close together many of these states are. So if you’re planning to embark on this road trip, keep this in mind.

You can either fly into a set starting point – we recommend Boston – or you can drive in from where ever you’re located in the United States. In any case, you’re going to need a car – either your own or a rental car . If you’re renting, we suggest going through Discover Cars to get the best deals from all the top car rental companies in one place.

How to Get to New England

If traveling from Europe or another destination outside the States, you’ll fly into Boston for this itinerary. Considering the region’s most popular international airport, Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is where your trip will start and end.

If Boston doesn’t work for you, you can also fly into New York City , Philadelphia, or even Washington, DC. It will just take you a little longer to drive to the start point of this road trip, but there is plenty to see along the way.

When Should You Do on a New England Trip?

Unless you’re a winter die-hard, the best time to visit New England is undoubtedly during the fall, from September to December, or spring, from March to June. 

Fall is when the landscape takes on a magical element with changing colors in every shade of gold, orange, red, and brown imaginable. Aside from that, the crisp, clear fall air and the New England sun bursting through the morning mists are second to none, making it one of the best fall destinations in the USA .

If you can’t swing a fall road trip, the second best time is during spring. This is before the heat of the summer really sets in, so temperatures will be mild and enjoyable. I would definitely not go in summer, if at all possible, because it can get really hot and humid.

New England Road Trip Itinerary

Are you ready to buckle up and join me on a 10-day road trip across these six picturesque states? I’m thrilled to share this thoroughly curated itinerary that will ensure you make the most out of this journey, exploring the hidden gems as well as the must-see spots.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys the thrill of exploring new places, this 10-day New England road trip has something for everyone. So pack your bags, put on your favorite road trip playlist, and let’s hit the road.

Boston, Massachusetts (Day 1)

After arriving in Boston, Massachusetts , you can jump directly into the first day of your trip by visiting Boston. Drop off your bags at the hotel and explore Beantown (as it’s locally known). 

In a city defined by a rich history and vibrant sports culture, you’ll find a million historical things to see alongside plenty of sports bars to grab a beer in at the end of your day. While there’s no way to see the best of Boston in one day, we suggest you include these highlights on your first day:

• Walk the Freedom Trail past some of the most important sites that shaped the American Revolution
• Explore the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museums
• Head to the Italian cuisine-filled North End of Boston for either lunch or dinner
• Grab a few snapshots of America’s most photographed street, Acorn Street
• Visit the Boston Library and marvel at its exquisite architecture

Where to stay: The Newbury Boston

Salem, Massachusetts & Portland, Maine (Day 2)

Your second day of this New England vacation itinerary involves the first stretch of road to tackle. Heading out north via the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway (or Route 127), you’ll drive for about 40 minutes to reach Salem.

Infamously known for being the site of the Salem witch trials of 1962, the town is a global epicenter for everything occult. If you’re visiting during October, prepare for an overload of everything spooky. No matter when you’re in town, here are some spots you shouldn’t skip:

• The Salem Witch Museum
• Salem Witch Trials Memorial
• The House of the Seven Gables

When you’re done exploring spooky Salem, jump back on Route 127. After about an hour and forty minutes, you’ll reach Portland, Maine. 

Similar to its west coast counterpart in Oregon , Portland, Maine, is a city with a bustling passion for the arts, the outdoors, and local microbrews and distilleries. Arriving in the city, you can leave your bags at your hotel and set out for a taste of Portland.

Some of the top things to see and do while you’re in town include:

• Visit Fort Williams Park and the Portland Head Light
• Tackle a brewery tour of Portland to some local craft breweries
• Shop the local boutiques and specialty shops of Old Port
• Grab a sunset view along the Eastern Promenade
• Eat lobster rolls at Luke’s Lobster on the pier

Tours to look out for while you’re in Portland:

• Old Port Culinary Walking Tour
• Cusco Bay Sea Kayaking Tour
• A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland 

Where to stay: Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park, Maine (Day 3)

Your third day along this New England trip requires an early start and a three-hour drive, but the rewards are totally worth it. Driving from Portland to Bar Harbor, the beach town gateway to Acadia National Park, prepare for some out-of-this-world scenery.

Along the route, you’ll pass through a few towns worth a stop. The first is Bristol, where you can spend a minute or two at the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse , then stop at the Camden Hills State Park in Camden to see the view from the top of Mt. Battie.

After dropping off your belongings at your overnight spot in Bar Harbor, it’s time to head into Acadia National Park. You need a U.S. Park Pass to get in. If you’re going to be visiting more than one park in the year, you should definitely consider getting the America the Beautiful annual pass, which is just $79.99 from REI.

On Maine’s largest island, Mount Desert Island, the 47,000-acre Acadia National Park has dramatic mountains, picturesque lakes, and endless miles of hiking trails. It’s one of the biggest draws to this part of the U.S.

The top three things to add to your Acadia itinerary include:

• Hiking to the summit of Cadillac Mountain (vehicle reservations are required for Cadillac Summit Road from May 25 through Oct 22). Book online.
• Kayaking on Swan Lake
• Biking or driving the Park Loop Road. The Park Loop Road can be very crowded. Have a backup plan if the area you wish to visit is full.

Where to stay: Bar Harbor Inn

White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire (Day 4)

While you technically did venture into stunning New Hampshire earlier in your road trip, day four is all about heading to and roaming around one of the state’s top attractions. The drive to get there is another 3 hours 30 min drive, so get up early!

Topping most driving tours of New England, especially those focused on New Hampshire, White Mountain National Forest is a beautiful collection of natural landscapes. The best thing about the National Forest is that there are many unique activities to indulge in regardless of what time of year you’re visiting.

• In springtime, thanks to warmer weather and melting snow, the forest delivers the perfect setting for hiking and camping.
• During the summer, you can fill your day by hiking, fishing, or canoeing.
• When fall arrives, you should set out to drive New Hampshire’s scenic Kancamagus Highway.
• Wintertime brings with it a lot of snow-capped mountains fit for winter sports enthusiasts at numerous ski resorts.

Where to stay: The Inn at Thornhill & Spa

Stowe, Vermont (Day 5)

Once you’ve said farewell to New Hampshire, it’s time to head to NEK or the North-East Kingdom of Vermont. It’s a 1 hour 30 minute drive. Known for its spectacular green mountains, eye-catching lakes, and charming small farms, the state is a buzzworthy must-visit.

On the way to Stowe, you’ll stop in Waterbury for a genuine pilgrimage to the ice cream empire and the original store of Ben & Jerry’s.

Next up is a short 20-minute drive north to the ski resort town of Stowe. This world-famous ski destination showcases an authentic small-town charm, a lively main street, and some iconic steepled churches.

Be sure to check out some of Stowe’s one-of-a-kind local favorites, such as Laughing Moon Chocolates, Shaw’s General Store, and The Deep End (the hippest pizza place in the state). Other options here include:

• Skiing at the Trapp Family Lodge
• Hiking in Green Mountain National Forest
• Heading on a scenic drive on Mountain Road

Where to stay: The Lodge at Spruce Peak

Litchfield & Mystic, Connecticut (Day 6)

Another early start on day six, you’ll drive down the Route 100 Scenic Byway, Vermont’s longest highway, through Wilmington, across the border into Connecticut. First stop of the day? Litchfield; a charming New England town brimming with local history. It’s a 4-hour drive to get there.

Founded in 1719, today, the town is a popular tourist destination known for its antique shops, numerous art galleries, and historic homes.

Delving further into Connecticut, you’ll head east to the town of Mystic. This historic seaport sits snuggly on the Mystic River and is most famous for its maritime heritage and the setting of the 1988 film Mystic Pizza .

Here are some highlights in Mystic:

• Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum , one of the largest in the world
• Explore early colonial farm life at the Denison Homestead
• Dive into some aquatic adventures at the Mystic Aquarium
• Hike a trail or two in Bluff Point State Park

Where to stay: Hilton Mystic

Newport, Rhode Island (Day 7)

Continuing the coastal New England road trip, the next stop along your journey is in Rhode Island. Although it’s the smallest state in the US, it is home to some of the country’s most historic towns, most notably Newport. This is only an hour drive.

This seaside town, once a summer retreat for America’s most wealthy families, boasts breathtakingly stunning mansions built during the Gilded Age and is quite the sight to behold. Beyond that, you’ll find pristine beaches and some of the best seafood in the country here.

When you’re planning your day in Newport, be sure to include these must-do activities:

• Stroll along Cliff Walk, a coastal 3.5-mile pathway hugging the Atlantic Ocean
• Indulge in some retail therapy along Bellevue Avenue and Thames Street
• Head out wine tasting at Greenvale Vineyards
• Tour the famous Newport Mansions
• Explore Bowen’s Wharf or take a boat cruise from Long Wharf
• Relax on the sands of Easton Beach

Where to stay: Newport Marriott

Cape Cod (Day 8)

Next up, and after an entire week on the road, it’s time for some rest and relaxation on the flexed arm of Massachusetts, in Cape Cod, a 1-hour 30-minute drive. Sitting on a peninsula in the state’s southeastern region, Cape Cod has long been a summer destination for the rich and famous.

Now if you’ve ever wondered why New England beach vacations are so popular, the almost 560 miles of coastline that encircle Cape Cod provide a clear answer. Yes, there are many great towns here worthy of a stay, but for this road trip, you’ll spend the day and night in Sandwich.

The official oldest English settlement in Cape Cod, Sandwich, dates back to 1639 and stuns with calm beachfront, quaint eateries, and a vibrant historic district. Fill your day in Sandwich with some of these standouts:

• Breakfast at Cafe Riverview
• Stroll along East Sandwich Beach
• Visit Sandwich Boardwalk
• Explore the Sandwich Historic District
• Indulge in the best lobster in town at Mattakeese Wharf

Where to stay: Sandwich Lodge & Resort

Plymouth, Massachusetts (Day 9)

What would an itinerary for a New England road trip be without a stop in Plymouth? That’s why your second-to-last day in the area is all about exploring the town that dates back to 1620. It’s a 30-minute drive from Cape Cod.

Today this quintessential New England town is most known as the site where the very first Thanksgiving took place and is home to Plymouth Rock. Steeped in history, this is where the Pilgrims first landed way back when.

With all that history, here are a few top spots you should visit while in Plymouth:

• Explore Plimoth Patuxent , a living history museum with a replica of the Mayflower ship
• Grab a few snapshots at Plymouth Rock and delve into the Pilgrim Hall Museum
• Roam around Plymouth’s historic downtown harbor area, home to several notable buildings such as the Plymouth Courthouse
• Cap off your day with a stroll along Plymouth’s famously historic waterfront and catch the sunset over Cape Cod

Where to stay: Thomas Sea Suites at Harbourtown

Boston, Massachusetts (Day 10)

Finally ending your epic 10-day New England road trip, you’re back in Boston . Luckily the drive from Plymouth to Boston is only 45 minutes to an hour, so you can start the day a bit later and still be back in Beantown with some time to spare for any extra activities.

We’d recommend fitting anything you didn’t have time for on day one into your final day. If you’ve got a few extra hours, here are some other Boston highlights to add:

• For history lovers, pay a visit to the USS Constitution Museum or the Paul Revere House
• Art lovers should definitely head to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts
• Sports fanatics should take a one-hour tour of Fenway Park or catch a Boston Red Sox game ( check their calendar here )
• For food lovers, be sure to check out our foodie guide to Boston .

Where to stay: Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall Boston

Wrapping Up Your Road Trip Through New England

There you have it – the best road trip through New England you could possibly do in ten days. Although numerous other attractions and standout activities can be included on any trip, this New England trip itinerary features the best of the best.

Of course, you can play around with other vacation ideas in New England or discover hidden travel tips heading off-the-beaten-path. Now all you have to do is decide when to go and prepare for some exciting road-tripping in New England.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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• Travel Resources

10-Day New England Road Trip Itinerary

• New England offers a variety of destinations for a memorable road trip, including Boston, Cape Cod, Providence, and more.
• Boston, Massachusetts, is one of the best New England road trip stops, known for its historical landmarks and museums, although it can be pricey and congested.
• Bar Harbor, Maine, is a must-visit when road-tripping New England in 10 days; it's perfect for nature enthusiasts, as it's home to Acadia National Park, while Portland, Maine, is a charming waterfront city with a blend of history and innovation.

The moniker of New England brings a great deal of curiosity to those looking for a new area of the world to explore. As a collection of states spanning Maine, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire, ample opportunities exist to take in all the area has to offer through an old-fashioned road trip.

Deciding on a route that will accommodate the top destinations New England has to offer is half the battle. The 10-day road trip below combines heritage, entertainment, and cultural opportunities to ensure a well-rounded and memorable vacation. All that's left to do is to buckle up and enjoy the adventure yet to come!

Related: These Are The 14 Most Beautiful Places To Live In New England

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston has exceptional museums, restaurants, and landmarks to visit on a road trip.

Boston is the start for those looking to road trip New England in 10 days; it's one of the oldest cities in the United States and bears much historical significance. Founded in 1630 by John Winthrop , the area was brought forward by Puritans settling in the new country of America.

Today, the capital of Massachusetts is known for its European feel; plus, Boston's many famous landmarks are a major draw for tourists, like the Bunker Hill Monument , the home of Paul Revere, Fenway Park (the home of the Boston Red Sox) , The Freedom Trail , and Boston Common . Visitors to the area can partake in tours of the U.S.S. Constitution , The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum , and Old North Church .

Boston is known for being quite pricey when it comes to accommodations and entertainment, so it's best to budget accordingly. Parking and traffic can also be a challenge. However, Boston is a walkable city, so it's easy to leave one's vehicle behind and explore on foot.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Enjoy fantastic restaurants, hundreds of miles of seashore, and historic museums.

Many look at Cape Cod, Massachusetts, as an idyllic and tranquil seashore destination that allows for adequate relaxation and an opportunity to take in the historical and cultural significance of the area. Located on Route 6A, a historic highway that has achieved National Scenic Byway Status , Cape Cod is home to many different lighthouses, whale-watching recreation, optimal hiking and birdwatching, and multiple art museums.

Those who stop in Cape Cod can particularly enjoy the Cape Playhouse for local theater performances and the Cape Symphony for timeless musical concerts.

• Distance: 70 miles from Boston
• Road Trip Length: Approximately 90 minutes

Providence, Rhode Island

Locals refer to providence as "the creative capital" due to its small-town charm and simultaneous big-city vibes.

Although it is well-known as the smallest state in America, Rhode Island isn't one that should be ignored. The tiny spot on the map packs in over 400 miles of coastline, earning Rhode Island the nickname "The Ocean State" . Located next to the Atlantic Ocean, vacationers will have their fair share of freshly caught seafood to enjoy during their visit.

Besides food, there are plenty of fun things to do in Providence as part of a New England road trip itinerary; stop at the Roger Williams Park Zoo for a day of exploring or go for a ride with Providence Kayak . Locals and guests alike will also appreciate the many local boutique shops and community events.

• Distance: 82 miles from Cape Cod

Related: 10 Beautiful Coastal Stops On A Road Trip In New England

New Haven, Connecticut

The ultimate blend of college town and seaside retreat.

New Haven, Connecticut, is the perfect blend of a college town and a seaside retreat. Younger generations come to advance their education while families, retirees, and vacationers appreciate the beauty the Long Island Sound provides to the area. With the addition of Yale University , the Ivy League establishment has brought multiple museums to the city, including the Yale University Art Gallery, Yale Center for British Art, and the Yale Peabody Museum.

Other points of interest within New Haven include public parks. Two of the most popular recreational areas include East Rock Park and Lighthouse Point Park . Another top contender is Edgerton Park , which is built on a demolished historical estate.

• Distance: 102 miles from Providence
• Road Trip Length: Approximately one hour and 45 minutes

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Discover this mountain area's museums, orchards, breweries, wineries, and festivals.

There are many small towns and villages that make up the area that is called The Berkshires in Massachusetts. For those looking to learn more about the area, The Berkshires boasts over 100 cultural attractions . People visit the mountain area throughout the year, enjoying various recreational activities in different seasons.

There are many local festivals to take part in during a visit. Depending on the timing of the visit, there are ample orchards, breweries, and wineries to enjoy. Visitors also rave about the local boutique shopping, the Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum , Edith Wharton's Home , and Berkshire Art Museum .

• Distance: 78 miles from New Haven

Brattleboro, Vermont

Experience farm-to-table restaurants, a focus on all things local, and beautiful landscapes.

Another one of the fun stops on a New England road trip is the town of Brattleboro, previously known as Brattleborough , which is most commonly known to locals by the simple nickname of "Bratt".

One of the unique aspects of Brattleboro is that it's home to one of the top circus performance schools, NECCA . Visitors can also participate in activities frequently hosted on Retreat Farm ; this farm conservation effort is on 500 acres of forests, farms, trails, and waterways. Whether it's a guided round of "Hike and Seek" or craft beer and cheese tastings, people of all ages are bound to find a suitable activity.

• Distance: 93 miles from The Berkshires

Brattleboro, Vermont, is known as "one of the best small towns in America" and was the winner of the 2023 Strongest Town Award .

Burlington, Vermont

For those keen on ice cream and teddy bears, this stop is a dream come true.

The city of Burlington, Vermont, has an array of attractions to enjoy in a day when visiting as part of a New England 10-day road trip itinerary. The city boasts tons of amenities that suit any age; people can easily pack their days full of fun activities and sightseeing between the beautiful beaches, the various breweries, parks, and shopping centers.

Just a short drive away, road trippers can find the iconic Ben and Jerry's ice cream factory and the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory . Both attractions offer tours for a nominal fee. Visitors should not forget to check out the flavor graveyard at Ben and Jerry's, where the company has laid to rest their retired ice cream combinations.

Plus, a visit to Burlington isn't complete without checking out the Church Street Marketplace shopping center and the scenic overlooks sprinkled throughout the area.

• Distance: 151 miles from Brattleboro
• Road Trip Length: Approximately two hours and fifteen minutes

Related: 10 Cozy Towns To Retire To In Vermont

Bar Harbor, Maine

Although this leg is by far the lengthiest, a pit stop in this coastal town opens up acadia national park.

Home to Acadia National Park, the coastal area of Bar Harbor is outstanding for nature enthusiasts and is easily one of the best stops on a New England road trip route. Visitors have endless opportunities to enjoy hiking, swimming, biking, running, and more during a short stay in Bar Harbor. For those who aren't inclined to participate in such activities, the views of Acadia National Park are also worth the long drive.

Nature aside, Bar Harbor offers much more for locals and tourists to enjoy during their time in the city. The Seal Cove Auto Museum is a top destination, as well as The Natural History Center . Visitors can also enjoy a guided tour of the area through Oli's Trolley and participate in one of the many ghost walks that uncover the past of Bar Harbor.

• Distance: 339 miles from Burlington
• Road Trip Length: Approximately six and a half hours

Portland, Maine

By blending the present with the past, this waterfront city offers a combination of charm and innovation.

Next on the 10-day road trip itinerary for New England is Portland in Maine , which has a history of agriculture and shipbuilding; those two elements are still very present today. Nestled on a peninsula that enters the Casco Bay, visitors will be mystified by the laid-back approach to life that the locals enjoy. The waterfronts are home to many fishing piers that bring fresh seafood to the top-notch restaurants in the city, and the historical homes pay homage to the area's past.

Visitors can hop on a ferry that takes them around Casco Bay. A visit to Portland's many attractions , such as the Portland Observatory and Portland Museum of Art, gives a unique perspective to the cultural scene that is very prevalent in the area. To learn more about the beginnings of Portland, guests should pop into the Maine Historical Society for insight into the early days.

• Distance: 175 miles from Bar Harbor
• Road Trip Length: Approximately three hours

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Take a break from the car with a visit to this walkable, historic city on the seacoast.

This walkable city on the coast is another one of the fantastic New England road trip stops. As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Portsmouth was settled in the early 1600s by founder John Mason. Today, the area has many attractions that speak to its unique elements and humble beginnings.

Visitors can enjoy the Strawberry Banke Museum, the Seacoast Science Center, and a tour of the Portsmouth Historic Sites, which include the former residences of prominent navy commanders and officials. Other noteworthy activities include a ride on a Portsmouth harbor cruise or taking in a show at The Music Hall.

• Distance: 52 miles from Portland
• Road Trip Length: Approximately one hour

This New England beach town is among top 10 in the country, USA Today says

• Published: Apr. 11, 2024, 8:24 a.m.
• Taylor Sanzo | [email protected]

One New England town is being named among the best coastal small beach towns in the country, according to readers of USA Today’s 10Best .

USA Today nominated places with “charm that is hard to find in more heavily populated areas” that the best coastal small towns across the U.S. offer, with plenty of activities to do there.

Nominees are submitted to USA Today by a panel of experts. Then, 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the readers’ choice awards, the website said. Readers were able to vote once per category, per day.

Newport, Rhode Island, was the only New England town to land itself a spot on the list, coming in at sixth best overall.

According to 10Best, Newport has a slew of things for everyone to enjoy including breweries and wineries, regattas and Gilded Age mansions.

"Go paddleboarding or sailing, visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame, hike along the Cliff Walk with gorgeous ocean views, or simply stroll about downtown to grab a bite and do some souvenir shopping,” the website continued.

The first place spot in the country with the best beach town went to Stuart, Florida.

The town offers great spots for picnicking, fishing and relaxing, 10Best said.

To see the full ranking of the best coastal small towns in the country, click here .

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The art of being a Russian farmer

John Kopiski is a British-born business executive who came to Moscow for a 3-day business trip and ended up staying for more than 20 years.

“I arrived here in December 1991. I went to some import-export companies, two bars, a hotel and Old Arbat (a street in central Moscow). And in this brief period I felt that I could start a new life here. Not a new business, a new life.”

Mr. Kopiski became the second British citizen to obtain Russian citizenship in 1993. He became an Orthodox shortly after.

Soon after he settled in Russia Mr Kopiski decided to shift his career from coal trading to farming . He invested almost all his savings – several million pounds – into a project to rebuild a ruined collective farm near Vladimir , an ancient  town located roughly 115 miles south-east of Moscow.

  “Whenever we had spare money we helped the church, particularly in Vladimir. And just over 10 years ago the abbess of Murom Monastery was tasked with reopening a monastery very close by, in Pokrov. And we suggested that they could use this place as their farm. But when the abbess saw it, she said it was too big for her, but my wife and I liked the place and the life here. So we started farming.”

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Can anyone suggest an easy to reach hostel I can get to easily after landing at the airport?

Are there any english spoken walking tours or opportunities to connect with english speaking russian folk to get a better experience of the City?

Any great quarters to eat cheaply? ANd interesting bars?

I am a little concerned of my complete lack of Russian other than Hello! and Thank you. So will aim to find a hostel with fellow english speakers and make some friends.

Any suggestions of a budget? ANd how easy is it to get the train to St P?

Any advice is welcome!

I am especially keen to try a vodka museum and also follow any tours which offer me insight into my favourite russian authors such as DOstoyevsky, Bulgakov, Tolstoy!

Many thanks,

English-speaking tours are googlable, also hop-on bus has audio in many languages and could be nice.

Cheap eats - look for a FAQ article on the right.

http://www.russianmuseums.info/M403 - Dostoevskiy museum in Moscow,

http://tolstoymuseum.ru/museums/museum_branchs/khamovniki/ - Tolstoy's estate in Moscow, in Russian - Google Translate this...

To get to the train you need to arrive to the station, find your departure track on the board, go to this track, find your carriage, show your ticket and passport to the train attendant at the entrance, get in, get to your bunk and enjoy the travel!

If you stay at one of the American hotel chains you will be surrounded by English speakers, including staff. We had a great stay at Marriott Tverskaya, but the other Marriotts are even nicer. It is also super close to the Belloruskaya train station if that is where you are catching the train to SP. The metro is also right there.

Belorusskaya train station is NOT the station for trains to St Petersburg. It is a station for trains to Sheremetyevo airport. And Belorusskaya trains go to Belarus which is clearly seen from the name.

Train station for SP is Leningradsky - Leningrad is St Petersburg's ex-name.

For tours, hostels and eating - you may want to read the relevant sections here, it helps!

Were you thinking of taking the ferry between StP and Helsinki? I wish it went more often then just weekends.

Yes I was, and didnt realise it only goes on weekend, though that fits in with my plans!

Agree 100% with Andrey - November is perhaps the worst month to pick for a visit, the later, the worse. Unless you like short days, colder and rainy, or maybe slushy snow...winter with a lot of pure white snow would be far preferable to me, albeit a bit colder.

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