Boston is a beautiful city on the East coast with an amazing arts and culture scene and mouth watering food. As amazing as it can be, everyone can use a break and if you’re looking to go on a mini vacation, here’s a list of some of the best weekend getaways from Boston to help you reset and recharge.
Block Island
Block Island just south of Rhode Island, is the quintessential getaway for beach lovers. Home to gorgeous white sand beaches and gentle waves it is the perfect size to be explored over a weekend, making it one of the best options for weekend trips from Boston.
The island is also a natural paradise with 40% of the island being conservation land, 365 natural freshwater ponds, scenic hiking trails, and more than 400 bird species. You can spend your time discovering the island’s dramatic cliffs, nature trails and the lighthouse or explore the island on a bike or a moped or go for a horse ride on the beach.
Travel Facilities From Boston
You can take a bus or train to New London and then take a ferry to Block Island.
You can take a train from Boston to Westerly and then a flight to Block Island.
You can also drive from Boston to Block Island Ferry in New Shoreham and then take the ferry to Block Island.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Block Islands is during the summer, which is an ideal time to enjoy the white sand beaches and the water activities. The summer in Block lasts from June to August, for more pleasant weather you can visit during either end of the summer – May or September.
Attractions
- Mohegan Bluffs
- Mansion Beach
- Block Island North Light
- Frederick J. Benson Town Beach
- Rodman’s Hollow
- Sacred Labyrinth
- Clay Head Nature Trail
- South East Lighthouse
Activities
- Swimming
- water sports
- Hiking
- Bird Watching
- Biking/ mopeds
- Snorkeling
- Parasailing
- Kayaking
Nantucket
Nantucket is an alluring island off Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with shiny dune-backed beaches, charming cottages and a lively downtown. Nantucket is a National Historic District and most of the island is conservation land, so enjoy the unadulterated beauty with hikes along Gardner Farm Walk or Millbrook.
On the island you can visit the lighthouse or relax on the secluded beaches, one of the most popular activities is whale watching which lasts from April to October. The island exudes an old world charm with white picket fences, cottages and cobblestoned streets, which are best explored on bikes.
Travel Facilities From Boston
Traveling to Nantucket is easy during the on-season because several commercial airlines and charter companies offer direct flights to Nantucket from major cities including Boston. You can also take a bus or drive to Hyannis and take a ferry.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nantucket is during the off-season months of March, April, September, and October, to experience comfortable weather, and also enjoy a much more calming and relaxing atmosphere. On the other hand whale watching season lasts from April to October.
Attractions
- Whaling Museum
- Brant Point Lighthouse
- Cisco Brewers
- Madaket Beach
- Sankaty Head Lighthouse
- ‘Sconset Bluff Walk
- Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge Gatehouse
Activities
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Biking
- Surfing
- Stargazing
- Whale watching
Stowe, Vermont
Vermont is known for its lush green forests, New England countryside, quaint towns, and its maple syrup. The town of Stowe is a great destination for romantic weekend trips from Boston, known for skiing, gorgeous fall foliage and its alluring scenery. When in Stowe you can spend your time chasing waterfalls, trying breweries or lounging in luxurious ski resorts.
The town has a long list of activities like biking, hiking, snowboarding and cross- country skiing. The landscape is at its best when fall colors take over the scenery, painting the trees with bright red, orange and yellow. However, winter also attracts a great number of visitors.
Travel Facilities From Boston
Vermont is 205.2 mi from Boston and it will take approximately 3 hr 20 min to reach Boston via I-93 N and I-89 N. You can also take a flight from Boston to Burlington which can take up to an hour.
Best Time to Visit
The Fall from early October to November is great to enjoy the fall foliage, while the winter is more suitable if you like skiing and other winter activities. If you have a sweet tooth, stop by Vermont during the spring when maple syrup production is in full swing.
Attractions
- Smugglers’ Notch State Park
- Mount Mansfield
- Gold Brook Covered Bridge
- Ben & Jerry’s Factory
Activities
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Hiking
- Maple syrup tours
White Mountain National Forest
White Mountain National Forest lies within the U.S. states of New Hampshire and Maine.This place gets its name from the granite reflecting the sunlight. This park spans across 800,000 acres and is a great place for biking, sightseeing, hiking, and for a picnic. During the winters it transforms into a well known skiing destination.
Travel Facilities From Boston
White Mountain National Forest is just two hours away from Boston and the most convenient way to reach White Mountain National Forest is by driving, which will take around 2 hours.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and Fall are the best seasons to enjoy the best of White Mountain National Forest, as the weather is perfect for hikes and you can witness the beautiful spring bloom and the brilliant colors of the Fall.
Attractions
- Seven Birches Winery
- Kancamagus Highway
- Flume Gorge
- The Mount Washington Cog Railway
- Riverwalk Covered Bridge
Activities
- Camping
- Skiing
- Hiking
- sightseeing
Poconos Mountains
The Poconos is a charming town nestled in the heart of lush green mountains, with breathtaking vistas everywhere. These mountain towns make the perfect getaway with your loved ones. Go on a scenic trek, a refreshing swim in tranquil lakes or visit one of the amusement parks for a jolly good time. From peaceful places to reflect on yourself, to historic sites and thrilling the Poconos has something for everyone.
Travel Facilities From Boston
The most convenient and cheapest way to get to the Poconos from Boston is to drive, it will take 5 hours to cover the 300 miles. Another recommended method is to take a flight, train or bus to New York and board one of the daily buses to the Poconos Mountains.
Best Time to Visit
The Poconos are a year-around destination with splendid vistas throughout the seasons,however, the peak seasons are between June to August. The winter which lasts from November to April is great for skiing and other snow activities.
The spring and summer which lasts from June to September is perfect for enjoying the tranquil lakes and amazing waterparks of the Poconos. This season is also great for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and zipline. Let’s not forget the charming autumn which is one of the best destinations for enjoying the fall foliage.
Attractions
- Delaware Water Gap
- Bushkill Waterfall
- Hickory Run State Park
- Lehigh Gorge Scenic Tour
- Pocono Raceway
- Camelback Resorts
- Kalahari Resorts
Must Try Activities
Conclusion
There are plenty of amazing spots for a relaxing getaway from Boston, this list includes island beaches, scenic mountains, and everything in between. Choose one which suits your style the most and hit the road.
While visiting the Poconos if you need a place to stay, try HolidayKeepers for some luxurious vacation rentals. Our handpicked properties guarantee a delightful experience with stunning views, interiors, and amenities.
FAQ’s
What is the best time to visit White Mountains?
The best time to visit the White Mountains is during the fall foliage season, which typically runs from mid-September to mid-October. The mountains are covered in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, making for a remarkable view.
What is the number one attraction in Vermont?
The number one attraction in Vermont is difficult to pinpoint, as the state offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. However, some of the most popular destinations include the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour, the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, the Shelburne Museum, and the Church Street Marketplace in Burlington.
Is Nantucket worth a visit?
Nantucket is definitely worth a visit if you enjoy charming seaside towns with beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and great food. The island has a unique character that sets it apart from other New England destinations.
How much does it cost to go to Block Island?
The cost of visiting Block Island can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the time of year, where you’re coming from, and what activities you plan on doing. However, you can expect to pay for transportation (either by ferry or plane), accommodations, and food and drinks. It’s a good idea to do some research and budget accordingly to ensure you have a fun and affordable trip.
With a decade of expertise in travel and hospitality, Aman Mehrotra, Senior Editor and Travel Manager at HolidayKeepers, is known for his compelling storytelling and insightful travel content. He skillfully combines strategic marketing wisdom with engaging narratives, covering everything from undiscovered destinations to the latest trends in vacation rentals. Aman’s writings resonate with both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking leisurely retreats. His global perspective and innovative approach make him a valuable asset to the HolidayKeepers team and a favorite among readers seeking inspiration and practical advice for their travels.
