Boston gains most of its popularity from its ranking as the largest city in Massachusetts. The city boasts a population of over 650,000 residents, and there are many outdoor activities for everyone. Boston is famous for Fenway Park and the iconic Boston Tea Party Ships & Museums, among other tourist attractions to visit in the area.
But sometimes, residents must step out and explore the beauty of nearby attractions. With neighboring destinations like New York City, Rhode Island, and everything in-between, here are some of the best places to visit on a day trip from Boston.
10 Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls is a long drive from Boston (all the others on this list are much closer, but this one is bucket list-worthy!), so tourists who want to go on a day trip to this fantastic destination will have to pack their bags before the break of dawn.
Considering the distance, travelers might want to turn it into a long weekend trip instead and consider spending a night at somewhere like Cherry Hill Campground. Plus, there are plenty more accommodation choices at the best state parks near Niagara Falls for camping.
The beauty of this destination lies in its powerful waterfalls, making it the envy of nearby cities. These waterfalls are most famous for the large volumes of water flowing over them and the majestic views that visitors can enjoy from Niagara Falls boat tours and the numerous viewpoints.
Adventure seekers can also climb to the top of the Niagara Falls Observation Tower, which serves up majestic views of the waterfalls.
- Distance from Boston: 476 Miles
- Where to Visit: Niagara Falls State Park
- Niagara Falls State Park Entry Fee: Free
9 Falmouth, Massachusetts
Tourists who want to take a day trip from Boston will enjoy exploring Falmouth, which is only a little over an hour away from Boston. This charming coastal town is situated in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, and is known for its beautiful beaches, among other picturesque things to see.
Visitors can hike the scenic Shining Sea Bikeway, a paved rail trail for bikers and joggers alike. And tourists who want a little more greenery – or a lot of it – can explore the paradisiacal Highfield Hall & Gardens and roam these enchanting gardens alone or with family.
- Distance From Boston: 77 miles
- Highfield Hall & Gardens Fee: $10
8 Providence, Rhode Island
Providence is the capital city of Rhode Island, which makes it one of the most popular places to visit near Boston. But there are more things to love about Providence, as this enchanting city is dotted with an array of tourist attractions.
Tourists can go on a camel ride at the 40-acre Roger Williams Park Zoo or go on a free guided tour around the iconic Rhode Island State Capitol and explore its neoclassical charm. Boston residents are in luck, as this day trip is only an hour away.
- Distance from Boston: 51 miles
- Roger Williams Park Zoo Fee: $20.95/adult
- Rhode Island State Capitol Entry Fee: Free
7 White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
White Mountain National Forest is 137 miles from Boston via US-3 N and I-93 N, so tourists who want to go on a road trip to this spectacular destination should brace up for a two-hour drive. However, there are many amazing sights along the way, including Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States.
Tourists can either take a scenic drive along Mount Washington Auto Road or hike to the summit of the mountain, which stands at an elevation of 6,288 feet above sea level and serves up panoramic views of the surrounding White Mountains.
- Distance from Boston: 137 miles
- Mount Washington Height: 6,288 feet
- Things to See: Mount Washington, Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves, Pemigewasset Wilderness, Arethusa Falls, Mount Chocorua, Sabbaday Falls
- Day Pass: $5
Although this is one of the top day trips from Boston, travelers will need at least four to five days to experience the best of the White Mountains.
6 Nantucket, Massachusetts
Boston residents who want a scenic break from the mundane can take a day trip from Boston to the Massachusetts Island of Nantucket. This gorgeous island is not as famous as other top attractions near Boston, so tourists can have all the privacy they need while exploring its hidden gems.
Nantucket is a popular spot for whaling, and the famous Whaling Museum makes it a top choice for the history buff. Nantucket is an adventure haven, and the three-hour ferry ride from Boston is exciting enough to get the adrenaline rushing.
- Distance from Boston: 100 miles
- Whaling Museum Entry Fee: $20/adult
5 Salem, Massachusetts
Salem is known for its infamous 1692 witch trials, which have been featured in several movies. But the fame of Salem goes beyond its tragic history, as this city is most famous for its tranquility and has been dubbed the City of Peace.
An exquisite collection of hidden gems near Boston are tucked away in Salem, which is only 35 minutes away. Tourists can take a boat ride to Misery Islands and enjoy spectacular views of Salem’s beautiful scenery. But only daring tourists can tour Salem’s Witch House and the Burying Point Cemetery in the dark of the night and delve into the spine-chilling history of Salem and its attractions.
- Distance From Boston: 24 miles
- Spookiest Attractions: Witch House, Chambers of Terror, Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery.
- Address: 345 Mountain Rd, Princeton, MA 01541
4 Wachusett Mountain State Reservation, Massachusetts
Tourists who want to go on outdoor adventures near Boston can enjoy a day trip to Wachusett Mountain State Reservation. It’s popular to see why this mountain is a year-round day trip near Boston. This tourist destination boasts several trails which lead to the summit of 2,006-foot Mount Wachusett and present the best views of the towns of Westminster and Princeton.
And it gets even more exciting during winter, as these trails become a popular destination for snowboarding and skiing enthusiasts, so there’s no shortage of things to do in the area.
- Distance From Boston: 64 miles
- Mount Wachusett Height: 2,006 feet
3 Hampton Beach, New Hampshire
Hampton Beach is among the best places near Boston to visit on a day trip. It's a hive of tourist attractions, making it one of the most popular day trips near Boston. This beautiful beach resort is situated along the Atlantic Ocean, so tourists can enjoy the beautiful sight of crashing waves from iconic vantage points such as the boardwalk.
Hampton Beach hosts numerous yearly events and festivals, so tourists who want to experience Hampton Beach like a local should check out the full event calendar and visit during festive periods.
- Distance from Boston: 52 miles
- Annual Beach Festivals: Sand Sculpture Event, Miss Hampton Beach Pageant, Talent Competition, Cirque du Hampton Beach, Seafood Festival, Annual Fire Show
2 New York City, New York
New York City is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States. Almost four hours long, the journey isn't exactly a short day trip from Boston, though, so tourists who want to fully explore this iconic city may have to make a longer adventure out of it and spend a night — or two — at accommodations like Mandarin Oriental or Equinox Hotel, among other five-star hotels with stunning views of the NYC skyline.
During the day, tourists can explore nature up close at Central Park or take an elevator ride to either of the two observatories in the iconic Empire State Building, famed as one of the best places to visit in NYC.
- Distance from Boston: 225.6 miles
- Where to Visit: Central Park, Empire State Building, Top Square
- Central Park Entry Fee: Free
- Empire State Building Ticket: $47
1 Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Everyone falls in love with Martha’s Vineyard at first sight. Located south of Massachusetts' Cape Cod, this beautiful island boasts an impressive collection of coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Tourists can spend a day at Oak Bluffs and Inkwell Beach, among other must-visit beaches that provide ample opportunities to enjoy exciting water sports.
Tourists can also explore scenic trails at scenic locations such as Menemsha Hills, Long Point Wildlife Refuge, and Cedar Tree Neck Sanctuary. Not only are these trails perfect for biking, but they are also a treasure trove for wildlife spotting, making this entire place one of the top day trips from Boston to take if one loves the great outdoors and nature.
- Distance From Boston: 90 miles