Boston sits at the crossroads of New England’s best beaches, mountains, islands, and small cities—so it makes the perfect home base for quick weekend escapes. Within one to three hours, you can swap city streets for dune-backed beaches, quiet hiking trails, historic harbors, or museum-filled mill towns. Whether you want to recharge by the ocean, chase fall foliage, or sample a new food scene, the region delivers a memorable break without a long travel day.
In this guide to the best weekend getaways from Boston, you’ll find thoughtfully chosen destinations, easy travel times, and practical tips that help you make the most of 2–3 days. You’ll also get ideas for where to stay, what to do, and when to go—so planning feels seamless. From short trips near Boston like Cape Ann and Providence to classic favorites such as Cape Cod and the White Mountains, these are the best weekend destinations near Boston for relaxation, adventure, and culture.
If you’re craving a weekend that feels like a true reset, read on. Your next close-to-home adventure starts here.
Solo Traveler? You must love this: Solo Trip to Boston
Why Plan a Weekend Getaway from Boston?
A short getaway can do wonders. You reset your routine, explore new scenery, and return with more energy for the week ahead. Crucially, Boston’s location makes quick escapes low-effort and high-reward. In two to three hours or less by car, train, or bus, you can reach sandy beaches in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, rugged peaks in New Hampshire, and coastal food hubs in Maine and Connecticut. That means you spend more time enjoying and less time getting there.
For most travelers, 2–3 days is the sweet spot. Arrive Friday evening, savor a full Saturday, then explore Sunday morning before an easy return. You can drive most routes in 45 minutes to 3 hours. Public transit options make it even easier: the MBTA Commuter Rail reaches Cape Ann and Providence-area hubs; Amtrak’s Downeaster rolls to Portland; the Northeast Regional serves Mystic; and seasonal ferries link Boston to Provincetown for a car-free beach break.
Why should I plan a weekend trip from Boston? Because the region packs top-tier variety into short distances. One weekend might mean a cliff walk and sailing in Newport; the next could be hiking a waterfall loop in the White Mountains or sampling lobster rolls in Portland. With such accessible choices, you can follow the season—and your mood—without taking extra vacation days.
Top Weekend Getaways from Boston
Cape Cod, Massachusetts — Classic Beaches and Seafood Shacks
• Distance/Travel Time: 1.5–2.5 hours by car via Route 3 and the Sagamore Bridge (longer on summer Fridays); 1.5–2 hours by bus from South Station to Hyannis; high-speed ferry Boston–Provincetown in about 90 minutes (seasonal).
• Why Visit: For a weekend getaway from Boston to Cape Cod, you get miles of beaches, historic lighthouses, a flat bike path, and iconic seafood shacks. Each town has a different vibe—Provincetown is artsy and lively; Chatham feels classic and upscale; Wellfleet is low-key and nature-forward.
• Top Things to Do:
- Stroll the Cape Cod National Seashore and climb a lighthouse.
- Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail (25+ miles of easy riding).
- Watch whales off Provincetown (peak late spring through early fall).
- Sample Wellfleet oysters or a classic lobster roll.
- Window-shop along Chatham’s Main Street.
• Where to Stay: Boutique inns in Chatham or Provincetown for a romantic vibe; family-friendly resorts in Hyannis; rustic-chic motels in Eastham; budget stays in South Yarmouth. Book early in summer and aim for refundable rates on reputable platforms.
• Best Time to Visit: Late May to mid-October. June and September bring milder crowds and great weather; July–August delivers peak beach days and lively events. Spring weekends feel quiet and affordable.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts — Art Museums, Mountain Trails, and Farm-to-Table
• Distance/Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours by car via I-90; about 3–3.5 hours by Amtrak (Lake Shore Limited) to Pittsfield; regional buses serve Pittsfield and Great Barrington.
• Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Boston to the Berkshires blends culture and countryside. Hike to summit views, catch an outdoor concert at Tanglewood (summer), or wander huge contemporary installations at MASS MoCA. Farm-to-table dining and quiet towns round out a restorative escape.
• Top Things to Do:
- Hike Mount Greylock State Reservation for panoramic views.
- Explore MASS MoCA (North Adams) and the Clark Art Institute (Williamstown).
- Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum (Stockbridge).
- Stroll Lenox and Great Barrington for boutiques and cafés.
- Drive scenic Route 7 in peak foliage season.
• Where to Stay: Boutique inns in Lenox for culture lovers; eco-lodges or cabins near Great Barrington for hikers; spa resorts for a pampered weekend; budget hotels in Pittsfield. Reserve concert weekends well in advance.
• Best Time to Visit: June–October for hiking, music, and foliage (late September to mid-October is prime). Winter brings downhill and cross-country skiing plus cozy, lower rates.
Newport, Rhode Island — Gilded Mansions and Ocean Breezes
• Distance/Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours by car; about 2.5–3 hours via train to Kingston, RI, then a local bus or rideshare; MBTA to Providence plus a connecting bus is another option.
• Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Boston to Newport delivers coastal elegance with a relaxed pace. Stroll the famous Cliff Walk, tour Gilded Age mansions, and catch sunset on the harbor. Add sailing, beaches, and excellent seafood, and you have the perfect seaside weekend.
• Top Things to Do:
- Walk all or part of the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk for ocean views.
- Tour The Breakers and Marble House (buy timed tickets online).
- Drive Ocean Avenue and stop at Brenton Point.
- Book a harbor sail or lighthouse cruise.
- Sunbathe at Easton’s Beach or Gooseberry Beach.
• Where to Stay: Harborfront boutique hotels for romance; classic inns near Bellevue Avenue for easy mansion access; budget-friendly chains in Middletown. Consider a bundled Newport Mansions pass to save.
• Best Time to Visit: May–October. June and September have ideal weather without peak July crowds. December lights and holiday tours inside the mansions add winter charm.
Portland, Maine — Lighthouses, Lobster Rolls, and Craft Beer
• Distance/Travel Time: About 2 hours by car via I-95 (tolls); 2–2.5 hours on Amtrak’s Downeaster; around 2 hours by Concord Coach Lines.
• Why Visit: For a weekend getaway from Boston to Portland, you’ll find a small city with big culinary energy. The Old Port’s cobblestone streets lead to acclaimed restaurants, cozy cafés, craft breweries, and ferry rides across Casco Bay. Iconic lighthouses and beaches sit minutes away.
• Top Things to Do:
- Visit Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth and picnic with a view.
- Hop a Casco Bay Lines ferry to Peaks Island and rent bikes.
- Join a brewery tour or sample tasting rooms around the Old Port.
- Book a lobster boat or schooner cruise (seasonal).
- Explore galleries and indie shops on Congress Street.
• Where to Stay: Boutique hotels and historic inns in the Old Port for walkability; waterfront properties for views; budget stays in South Portland with quick rideshare access. Snag Amtrak Saver Fares early for the best prices.
• Best Time to Visit: May–October for patio dining and harbor cruises. January–March brings cozy restaurant deals and fewer crowds; just pack warm layers.
White Mountains, New Hampshire (North Conway) — Peaks, Waterfalls, and Scenic Byways
• Distance/Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours by car via I-93 or Route 16; around 3.5–4 hours by bus (Concord Coach) with limited schedules.
• Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Boston to the White Mountains puts you in the heart of New England’s alpine playground. Hike to waterfalls, drive the Kancamagus Highway, or ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway for sweeping views. Outlet shopping and family parks add variety.
• Top Things to Do:
- Hike Diana’s Baths or Arethusa Falls for manageable, scenic trails.
- Cruise the Kancamagus Highway’s overlooks (early morning beats traffic).
- Ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway or Auto Road (book ahead).
- Visit Story Land (seasonal) if you’re traveling with kids.
- Ski Cranmore or Attitash in winter and shoulder seasons.
• Where to Stay: Rustic cabins, classic lodges, and riverside inns around North Conway; resorts for pools and hot tubs; budget motels for hikers. Lock in foliage-season rooms months in advance.
• Best Time to Visit: September–October for peak foliage; June–August for hiking and swimming holes; December–March for skiing and snowshoeing. Mountain weather changes fast—pack layers.
Mystic, Connecticut — Maritime History and Coastal Charm
• Distance/Travel Time: About 2 hours by car via I-95; roughly 2 hours on Amtrak’s Northeast Regional from Boston to Mystic Station; buses also run from South Station to New London with local transfers.
• Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Boston to Mystic mixes family-friendly attractions with New England coastal beauty. You’ll walk an excellent living-history seaport, meet beluga whales at a top aquarium, and savor waterfront dining in the compact village.
• Top Things to Do:
- Explore the recreated 19th-century seafaring village at Mystic Seaport Museum.
- Visit Mystic Aquarium for belugas, penguins, and touch tanks.
- Watch the drawbridge lift over the Mystic River and grab ice cream nearby.
- Kayak calm waters or visit nearby Stonington Borough.
- Shop and snack at Olde Mistick Village.
• Where to Stay: Charming inns and waterfront hotels near the river; family-friendly suites close to the aquarium; budget chains near the highway for easy access. Look for combo tickets that bundle the seaport and aquarium.
• Best Time to Visit: May–October for warm weather and full programming. December brings festive lights and holiday events at the seaport.
Providence, Rhode Island — Creative Small City With Big Flavors
• Distance/Travel Time: 1 hour by car; about 1 hour 15 minutes on the MBTA Commuter Rail; 35–45 minutes on Amtrak.
• Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Boston to Providence offers artsy neighborhoods, easy walkability, and standout dining—especially on Federal Hill. Time your visit for WaterFire, when flames flicker across downtown’s rivers and music fills the night.
• Top Things to Do:
- Catch WaterFire (select dates, spring through fall).
- Explore the RISD Museum and the riverwalk.
- Taste your way through Federal Hill on a food tour.
- Stroll Benefit Street’s historic homes.
- Picnic or paddle at Roger Williams Park.
• Where to Stay: Downtown boutique hotels for nightlife and walkability; historic B&Bs near Brown and RISD; budget-friendly options near the train station or TF Green Airport. Book dinner reservations on weekends.
• Best Time to Visit: May–October for events and patio dining; December for festive décor. Check the WaterFire calendar and build your weekend around it.
Cape Ann (Rockport & Gloucester), Massachusetts — Rugged Coastlines and Artist Colonies
• Distance/Travel Time: 45–60 minutes by car; about 1 hour 10 minutes on the MBTA Commuter Rail from North Station to Rockport or Gloucester.
• Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Boston to Cape Ann gives you wave-battered cliffs, harbor towns, beaches, and enduring fishing culture. Rockport’s artist studios line narrow lanes, while Gloucester offers whale watches, seafood shacks, and maritime history.
• Top Things to Do:
- Hike or picnic at Halibut Point State Park for far-reaching ocean views.
- Browse galleries on Bearskin Neck and see Motif No. 1 in Rockport.
- Book a whale-watching cruise from Gloucester (seasonal).
- Swim or surf at Good Harbor and Wingaersheek beaches.
- Tour Hammond Castle Museum.
• Where to Stay: Seaside inns and B&Bs in Rockport; harborside hotels in Gloucester; budget motels just inland; vacation rentals for families. For car-free weekends, the MBTA stops are walkable to many stays.
• Best Time to Visit: Late May–September for beach weather and boat tours; October for quiet hikes and foliage along the coast. Spring weekends feel peaceful and affordable.
Travel Tips for Weekend Trips from Boston
- Choose the right transportation: For downtown-based city breaks (Providence, Portland), trains save parking hassles. For beach towns or mountain trailheads, a car gives you freedom. If you drive, leave early Friday or later in the evening to avoid peak traffic at the Sagamore Bridge, I-93, and I-95 bottlenecks. An E-ZPass speeds up tolls on I-90 and I-95.
- Pack light and smart: Use a carry-on weekender and keep it simple. Plan mix-and-match outfits, and wear your bulkiest layers on travel days. New England weather shifts quickly, so always bring a light waterproof jacket and an extra warm layer—even in summer along the coast.
- Reserve the big-ticket items: Book ferry seats (Provincetown), mansion tickets (Newport), the Mount Washington Cog Railway, and whale watches ahead of time. Many popular restaurants and tours fill up on weekends.
- Optimize your stay: Two-night minimums are common in summer beach towns. If prices spike, look one town over or consider shoulder-season dates. Choose refundable rates where possible and set price alerts on trusted booking sites.
- Go car-free when it helps: MBTA Commuter Rail works well for Cape Ann and Providence-area hubs; Amtrak’s Downeaster reaches Portland comfortably; the Northeast Regional makes Mystic easy. Consider rideshares at your destination for flexible, short hops.
What should I pack for a weekend trip from Boston?
- Weather-ready layers (light fleece or sweater, compact rain jacket)
- Comfortable walking shoes or trail runners
- Swimwear and quick-dry towel for coastal trips
- Portable charger, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, and small first-aid kit
- Reservations and tickets saved offline in your phone wallet
Best Time to Plan Weekend Getaways from Boston
New England changes dramatically by season, so timing your weekend can shape the experience.
- Spring (April–June): Flowers bloom, trails reopen, and crowds stay manageable. Expect highs around 55–75°F (13–24°C) depending on month and location. Coastal breezes feel cool; pack a jacket. Spring is ideal for culture-focused getaways—Providence, Newport mansions, and the Berkshires’ museums.
- Summer (July–August): Beach season arrives with highs around 75–85°F (24–29°C) near the coast and 70–80°F (21–27°C) in the mountains. Ocean water warms to the 60s–70s°F (16–22°C) by August on Cape Cod and Rhode Island. Book early for Cape Cod, Newport, Portland, and Cape Ann. Go early to beat traffic and secure beach parking.
- Fall (September–October): Arguably New England’s best. Sunny days hover around 60–70°F (16–21°C) with crisp nights. Foliage peaks late September through mid-October in the White Mountains and early to mid-October across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This is prime time for the Berkshires and North Conway.
- Winter (November–March): Coastal towns quiet down, and rates drop. Expect 20s–40s°F (-6–4°C) most days, colder inland and in the mountains. Skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy inn vibes shine in the White Mountains and the Berkshires. Holiday events in Newport and Mystic add festive charm.
Tip: Mountain areas run 10–15°F (6–8°C) cooler than Boston, and weather can shift fast at elevation. Pack layers and check forecasts the morning you depart.
Budget and Planning Advice
How much does a weekend trip from Boston cost?
- Most travelers spend $600–$1,000 for two people over 2–3 days, including lodging, transport, dining, and a couple of paid activities. You can go budget under $400 with off-peak dates and car-free travel, or splurge beyond $1,500 with upscale stays and special tours.
Estimated 2–3 day budget breakdown for two:
- Accommodation (2 nights): Budget $240–$360 (motels/inns), Mid-range $400–$700 (boutique hotels), Upscale $800–$1,400 (resorts/harborfront)
- Transport: Gas and tolls $40–$90; Amtrak roundtrip $80–$200; ferries (e.g., to Provincetown) $120–$200 for two
- Food: Casual meals and coffee $120–$220; seafood dinners and drinks $150–$300
- Activities: Museum/mansion tickets $30–$80; whale watch or boat tours $80–$160; cog railway $150–$200 for two
Read this if you want a budget tour: Cheap Vacation Packages from Boston
Money-saving tips and tools:
- Use apps like Waze or Google Maps for live routing; ParkMobile for meter payments; MBTA mTicket and the Amtrak app for easy boarding; and AllTrails for hikes. For lodging, compare refundable rates on trusted platforms and check HotelTonight for last-minute city deals. GasBuddy helps find cheaper fuel on I-90/I-95.
- Travel off-peak: Shoulder seasons (May–June and September–October) bring better prices and fewer crowds. Winter weekends outside ski holidays can be a steal in coastal towns.
- Bundle and book ahead: Reserve timed-entry tickets (mansions, cog railway) early and look for combo passes (Mystic Seaport + Aquarium) to save.
- Consider car alternatives: For Providence, Portland, and Mystic, trains reduce parking costs and stress. If you need wheels at your destination, compare local rentals or car-share for a single day instead of the full weekend.
With smart timing, light packing, and a few key reservations, your short trip near Boston can feel both effortless and affordable—without sacrificing the fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Portland, Maine (Amtrak Downeaster to Portland Transportation Center; quick bus or rideshare to the Old Port)
– Providence, Rhode Island (MBTA Commuter Rail or Amtrak to Providence Station; walk or short rideshare to Federal Hill and the riverwalk)
– Mystic, Connecticut (Amtrak Northeast Regional to Mystic Station; the seaport, aquarium, and downtown sit nearby)
– Cape Ann (MBTA Newburyport/Rockport Line to Gloucester or Rockport; beaches and harbors are accessible on foot or by local taxi)
– Provincetown, Cape Cod (seasonal high-speed ferry from Boston in about 90 minutes; no car needed once in town)
– Leave before 10 a.m. on Friday or after 7 p.m. to dodge heavy backups at the Sagamore and Bourne Bridges.
– For returns, aim for early Sunday morning or after 8 p.m.; Sunday afternoons (2–8 p.m.) clog up in summer.
– Use Route 3 for the mid-Cape or I-495 to Route 25 for the upper Cape; check Google Maps or Waze live.
– Alternatively, skip the drive and take the seasonal Boston–Provincetown ferry.
There’s no direct train to Newport. Take:
– MBTA or Amtrak to Providence Station, then RIPTA Bus 60 to Newport (about 1–1.25 hours), or
– Amtrak Northeast Regional to Kingston Station (West Kingston), then RIPTA Bus 64 to Newport (about 45–60 minutes).
Driving from Boston takes about 1.5–2 hours, traffic permitting. In summer, a seasonal Providence–Newport ferry also runs.
– White Mountains, NH: Drive the Kancamagus Highway, Franconia Notch, or Crawford Notch. Peak usually runs late September to early October.
– Berkshires, MA: Mount Greylock, Mohawk Trail (Route 2), and Lenox–Stockbridge backroads shine in early to mid-October.
– Cape Ann, MA: Coastal color around Halibut Point and Rockport peaks mid-October, with ocean views as a bonus.
Start early for parking at overlooks, and check state foliage trackers the week you go.
– Cape Cod: Chatham (charming and classic), Provincetown (lively with National Seashore access), and Wellfleet (oysters and dunes).
– Cape Ann: Gloucester (Good Harbor and Wingaersheek beaches) and Rockport (scenic coves and art galleries).
– Newport, RI: Easton’s (First) Beach, Second Beach (Middletown), and Ocean Drive for coastal views.
– Near Portland, ME: Crescent Beach and Kettle Cove in Cape Elizabeth sit minutes from the Old Port.
– Most couples spend $600–$1,000 for 2–3 days, including lodging, transport, meals, and a couple of activities.
– Budget weekends can dip under $400 with off-peak dates, train travel, and simple stays.
– Splurge trips with harborfront hotels, boat tours, and fine dining often land between $1,200 and $1,500+.
– Book refundable rates early for summer beach towns and foliage weekends.
– Provincetown, MA: Boats reach Stellwagen Bank quickly; peak sightings run June through September.
– Gloucester, MA: Multiple operators head to Stellwagen and Jeffrey’s Ledge; the season runs roughly May–October.
Tours last 3–4 hours. Bring layers, sunscreen, and motion-sickness remedies, even on warm days.
– White Mountains (North Conway): Choose rugged summits, waterfalls, and the scenic Kancamagus Byway. Expect 2.5–3 hours’ drive and cooler temps at elevation.
– Berkshires (Lenox/Great Barrington): Opt for moderate trails (Mount Greylock, Monument Mountain) paired with museums like MASS MoCA and the Clark. The drive also takes about 2.5–3 hours.
Go White Mountains for alpine challenge; pick the Berkshires for a balanced outdoors-and-arts escape.
– Mystic, CT: Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport Museum, and calm riverfront walks.
– North Conway, NH: Diana’s Baths, gentle hikes, Story Land (seasonal), and winter tubing/skiing.
– Providence, RI: Roger Williams Park Zoo, the riverwalk, and WaterFire nights (select dates).
– Cape Ann and Cape Cod: Wide, family-friendly beaches and easy bike paths like the Cape Cod Rail Trail.
Yes. Take Amtrak’s Downeaster to Portland Transportation Center, then hop the METRO bus or rideshare 10 minutes to the Old Port. Stay downtown so you can walk to restaurants, breweries, and Casco Bay Lines ferries for Peaks Island. Add quick trips to lighthouses in Cape Elizabeth by rideshare, then return to the Old Port for dinner.
Susan CalliesSusan Callies is a travel writer at Travleon.com, where she shares guides, itineraries, and hidden gems from around the world. When she’s not writing about new destinations, Susan enjoys playing the violin, ice skating during the winter months, and exploring local food scenes wherever she travels. She's also passionate about photography, journaling her adventures, and visiting art museums. Susan believes that the best stories are found off the beaten path — and she’s always chasing the next one.