- Newport, Rhode Island
- Cape Cod, Massachusetts
- Ogunquit, Maine
- Rockport, Massachusetts
- Portland, Maine
- Nipmuck State Forest, CT
- SIXT Rent a Car in Boston
If you’re planning on taking a day trip from Boston, you have plenty of choices. The area around Boston is chock-full of history, beautiful nature, and opportunities to relax. From gorgeous beaches and fresh seafood to Native American heritage and eclectic New England arts scenes, there’s a town near Boston for you. If you are stumped about where to go, you’re in luck! The Team at SIXT has put together a list of six of the best day trips from Boston that are all just a 2-hour drive (or less!) from this iconic city. So, pick up your rental car in Boston and get started!
Newport, Rhode Island
Just an hour and a half away from Boston, Newport is a treasure trove of experiences, each more exciting than the last. Take a stroll down Bellevue Avenue and admire the luxurious estates from the Gilded Age, many of which also offer guided tours inside. The Breakers mansion and Marble House are must-sees if you’re short on time. After the mansions, the beach awaits. The Cliff Walk offers breathtaking sea views, or you can opt for a beach day at Easton’s Beach. And don’t forget to check out Newport’s vibrant culinary scene, which offers everything from fresh seafood shacks to fine dining. There are also vineyards and local breweries to explore nearby.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
About 1 hour and 15 minutes southeast of Boston, Cape Cod is a popular vacation destination. This is one of the best day trips from Boston to take by car, thanks to its wide variety of towns and attractions, so you can choose what to explore based on your preferences. Famous for its white sandy beaches, delicious local seafood, and its cozy beach towns, Cape Cod has plenty to offer. Check out Sandwich—the Cape’s oldest village—which is home to lush greenery and a serene atmosphere. You can also visit the famous Heritage Museum and Gardens or catch a ferry out to the popular island of Martha’s Vineyard. To end your day trip from Boston, relax on one of the many beaches on Cape Cod, such as the Cape Cod National Seashore.
Ogunquit, Maine
Situated at the southern tip of Maine, Ogunquit is about a 2-hour drive from Boston. The name of this coastal town means “beautiful place by the sea” in Abenaki , and is the best day trip from Boston for those interested in Native American heritage.
Known as one of the best beach towns in the northeast, Ogunquit is home to sandy beaches, grassy dunes, and gorgeous sea cliffs that add a bit of drama to the landscape. To enjoy the cliffs and the views, walk along Marginal Way. Ogunquit’s town center is also charming, with a summer theater where you can catch a musical and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art.
Rockport, Massachusetts
Rockport is about a 50-minute drive northeast of Boston and is situated along the northern tip of Cape Ann. On your way, stop at the European-style Hammond Castle before heading on to the coast. You can tour this massive castle and its beautiful grounds—it’s even a popular spot for wedding photos. Once you’ve had your fill of castles, head on to Rockport. This quaint seaside town is known for its bustling harbor, which is still home to an active fishing fleet. If you want to rub elbows with fishermen and get a taste of the freshest New England seafood possible, this is the place to go. The downtown area is also home to many unique boutiques and restaurants, and even has a vibrant arts scene thanks to the town’s picturesque landscapes. To see what inspires artists to hone their crafts, head to Motif #1 – a red fisherman’s shack that sits on the seaside. Halibut Point State Park also offers incredible sea views and hiking opportunities. Be sure to visit the impressive Babson Farm Quarry and the beautiful tide pools teeming with marine life.
Portland, Maine
Head north along the coast for about 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Portland, Maine, one of the best day trips from Boston for foodies. While you’re here, trying a fresh lobster roll is a must—they’re a cornerstone of Maine’s culinary identity. This city combines quaint New England coastal charm with the hustle and bustle of a bigger city, so you’ll get the best of both worlds. Visit the Old Port waterfront to dine in old warehouses that have been converted into trendy restaurants and watch the fishing wharf at work.
Portland is also famous for its iconic Portland Headlight lighthouse. Located in Fort Williams Park, the lighthouse is free to visit and has a rich history: it was used to protect the colonists from British attacks during the Revolutionary War.
After you’ve finished sightseeing, step into a restaurant downtown with live music to get a taste of the local scene. The Portland Lobster Company and Andy’s Old Port Pub are popular with tourists and locals alike!
Nipmuck State Forest, CT
For this day trip from Boston, we’re heading inland to Nipmuck State Forest in Connecticut. It takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to get there by car, making it the best day trip from Boston for those looking to go hiking or escape into nature.
Nipmuck State Forest is connected to Bigelow Hollow State Park, and together they offer approximately 9,000 acres of outdoor recreation space, including numerous hiking and biking trails. There’s also an 18-acre pond for anyone looking to get out on the water to go boating and fishing. If you’re visiting during winter, you can still enjoy the great outdoors – the state forest also offers rewarding snowmobiling and cross-country skiing opportunities.
SIXT Rent a Car in Boston
With conveniently located SIXT branches in Boston, including at Boston Logan International Airport and in the downtown area, renting a car for your day trip is a breeze. Whether you need a premium SUV in Boston for a family beach day at Cape Cod or a sedan for a scenic hike at Nipmuck State Forest, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy your day trip in comfort and style—your ride is ready when you are!
