Looking for an art museum that will engage the kids as well as the adults? Day Trips in Massachusetts Theres also the A.R.T. Best Day Trips from Boston Boston is filled with family activities and is one of the best places to visit if you are hoping to see historical sites. Dine at one of the many food venues in the park or make your reservation at Gallifords Restaurant & Tavern, the full-service restaurant here at the zoo. Boston Duck Tour 3. Phone: 508-830-4470, Full-dome Plymouth planetarium a shining star for visitors of all ages, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, off Route 20 You cant talk about places to visit in Massachusetts without leading off with the capital city of Boston. Yelp/Galina M. Step into a little slice of heaven at this stunning garden park in Beverly. Ashley Reservoir Ashley Reservoir Loop is a 3.7 mile loop trail located near Holyoke, Massachusetts that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. You may also want to explore the more iconic areas of Boston, including Boston Common, the Boston Public Garden, and Faneuil Hall. Learn how your comment data is processed. But dont worry because we are here to help! If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. For more amazing Massachusetts trip inspiration, check out these incredible Massachusetts day trips you can take by train. Bristol has everything you need for a relaxing break from Boston fine dining, bike trails, art galleries, and ocean views. Your kids will love Marthas Vineyard and the first thing theyll love is the trip over on board the Island Queen. Rush down the mountain on an alpine coaster or slide, zip through the air in the Aerial Adventure Park, arc high into the sky on the Giant Swing or take a scenic chair lift ride up to the summit for astonishing views. Plimoth Plantation Living History Museum Plymouth 9. 4. Our Recommendations. Island Queen 75 Falmouth Heights Road Falmouth, MA, 02540 Phone: 508-548-4800 First thing your kids will love about your Vineyard vacation: the ferry trip over Your kids will love Marthas Vineyard and the first thing theyll love is the trip over on board the Island Queen. And, of course, the skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing is top-notch on the 2,380-foot mountain. With its world-class exhibits, its hands down one of the premier Massachusetts attractions for families. Any time of the year, youll find family friendly lodging, activities, and adventures on day trips, weekend getaways, and longer vacations. She started blogging in 2007 on her popular review site Mom's Favorite Stuff and after doing quite a bit of family traveling, decided to launch her own travel blog. Jodi resides in Massachusetts with her husband, sixteen-year-old son, eighteen-year-old daughter, and Havanese dog. The beaches in Cape Cod, are some of the best beaches on the East Coast. Such an easy way to see beautiful sights without the hassle of figuring out directions or parking and he was happy to stop anywhere we liked. 1. 3. With its picture windows in the Main Deck lounge and amazing views of the Cape, the sound and the Vineyard from the Sun and Mid Decks, theyll be totally occupied on the 35-minute ferry voyage from Falmouth to Oak Bluffs. There are plenty of road trip ideas around the state but if you dont want to plan your own, dont worry. Beach & Pool Clubs in Massachusetts Beaches in Massachusetts Golf Courses in Massachusetts Horseback Riding Tours in Massachusetts Jogging Paths & Tracks in Massachusetts Scenic Drives in Massachusetts Ski & Snowboard Areas in Massachusetts Biking Trails in Massachusetts Hiking Trails in Massachusetts Water Sports in Massachusetts Gear Long Hill Reservation, Beverly. Fun Things to Do in Massachusetts with Kids Closer to Western Massachusetts is Springfield, Massachusetts. There may no such thing as a free lunch, but there are many great fun activities in Massachusetts that are free if you know where to look. It has more activities than Nantucket and is a shorter ferry ride. Bristol has everything you need for a relaxing break from Boston fine dining, bike trails, art galleries, and ocean views. You will find exactly what you were looking for on our comprehensive list of places to visit. Kids of all ages will have a blast exploring the New England Aquarium. Rory was such a lovely guide, friendly and lots of information throughout the trip. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum 5. They do have some kids programming throughout the year, so check their website for details. Fun Day Trips Our guide, Lucia, was as pleasant as she was knowledgeable, stopping and allowing us to take in the surroundings firsthand. Visit early in the day for lower crowd levels, because it definitely can get busy. In Massachusetts There are plenty of road trip ideas around the state but if you dont want to plan your own, dont worry. With the help of a tour guide, you can relive the history of the American Revolution only here at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. What are some of the best day trips in Massachusetts? Even better, the museum is a terrific learning experience for children. Its an intriguing and must-see treasure trove where youll see, interact and touch the only certified pirate treasure on earth. Smith College Greenhouses, Northampton Flickr/Putneypics If you want a dose of springtime in the winter, head to the Smith College greenhouses. Best as a day trip from: Boston, Plymouth, other towns on Cape Cod, Massachusetts North & South Shore. A visit to Rockport is one of the best day trips in Massachusetts you can take. Head to an alpaca farm to say hello to the animals, glide across the snow in a horse-drawn sleigh at. Boston Duck Tour 3. For something different, how about a trip to Wolf Hollow, a wolf sanctuary in Ipswich? You can park in one of the municipal lots or find on-street parking. Your family will be delighted that Old Sturbridge Village is more than a museum. The museum gift shop has a large assortment of apparel, spell books, tarot cards and locally made treats. Once you are there, youll want to visit Plimoth Plantation (recently renamed PlimothPatuxet). Recommended Hotel Nearby: Essex Street Inn & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection, 577 Great Neck Rd SMashpee, MA 02649(508) 539-8788Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Surprisingly, this is a great trip to take during the winter months! Want to be on the water? Enjoy autumn colors strolling marsh-side and riverside trails. Toll-Free: 800-533-3194, An exciting family adventure in Americas naval history, 35 Cambridge Turnpike at Lexington Road Most lists are released in June each year. This island, larger than Nantucket, has several different towns to visit. In Massachusetts Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Springfield West Inn, 674 MA-28West Yarmouth, MA 02673(508) 534-9571Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Thankfully the weather cooperated lending to the overall experience. Kids Day Trips in Massachusetts At the Plimoth Grist Mill, they can ask how the huge waterwheel helped make ground corn. These attractions in Massachusetts offer fun things to do in Massachusetts with kids, whether youre into animals, history, or heart-pounding thrills. The Mohawk Trail, located along Route 2 in Massachusetts, offers a scenic road trip through the picturesque Berkshire Mountains. Check the website for special seasonal events and activities. Bash Bish Falls, Mount Washington We were able to see and learn about so much in the 1 day that we never could have done on our own. Guests of the resort can enjoy a number of fun kids activities including a huge indoor water park, an arcade, a ropes course, among other activities. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and right here on TasteofMass.com! 3. It is an excellent way to spot whales in their natural habitat and learn about these majestic creatures from knowledgeable guides. It's fun for the whole family, although the maze also offers spookier experiences for the older crowd. See more hotel reviews here. Find day trips to take today or this coming weekend. While its a busy place to visit, theres so much activity and so many great things to do. Bristol Rhode Island (1:10 Drive) Bristol is a beautiful New England town thats full of history and charm. Great experience from beginning to end. When the wind blows over the sand, the sound of ethereal "singing" can fill the air. The best day trips in Massachusetts are: Visit Southwick's Zoo in Mendon; Go on a Boston Brew Tour; Explore the Bancroft Tower in Worcester . Eagle Street, Eagle St, North Adams, MA 01247, USA. Does it offer deals or discounts for families? See All Day Trips for Couples in MA. Whether you are visiting Massachusetts on its own, or as a part of a larger New England vacation, here are great day trips in Massachusetts with kids. Island Queen 75 Falmouth Heights Road Falmouth, MA, 02540 Phone: 508-548-4800 First thing your kids will love about your Vineyard vacation: the ferry trip over Your kids will love Marthas Vineyard and the first thing theyll love is the trip over on board the Island Queen. Take someone out on the best date they've ever been on this weekend in Massachusetts. With over three miles of paths spread over eight acres, the Davis Farm Mega Maze has previously been named the best corn maze in America by CNN. Crane Beach Ipswich 6. Things to do in Massachusetts | MA Tourism If you're looking for a place to take the kids this weekend in Massachusetts, this is the guide to see. Fun Things to Do in Massachusetts with Kids It includes a visit to: , Escape to the lovely coastal city of Newport, Rhode Island, on this day trip that includes both a guided tour and free time, Witness the magnificence of New Englands fall foliage by going on this themed tour from Boston that showcases the region, Immerse yourself in our colonial history! 12 Best Hotels in Salem, MA The Top-Rated Hotels to Stay At! This island is located about 30 miles from the mainland in Hyannis but feels almost like another country. This can't be right. Massachusetts is a good place for families, thanks to its excellent education system, numerous family-friendly attractions, and access to outdoor activities such as beaches, hiking trails, and parks. Drive along this historic trail and be treated to stunning mountain views, charming New England towns, and abundant natural beauty. Hours: Sun up to sun down. Click Here for Family Friendly Lodgings in Massachusetts, Visit the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. A Hidden Beaches Road Trip. Phone: 888-733-2678, Family-friendly Boston has something for everyone and its all a short walk away, 19 1/2 Washington Square North Hammond Castle has an incredibly romantic history (it was built as a wedding present for an eccentric inventor's wife), and looks like a real-life storybook palace. Book with confidence with our Low Price Guarantee. If you , It was a great experience only negative was the political rhetoric during the van ride not everyone sees things the same. New York Source: shutterupeire / shutterstock New York City Quite possibly the most iconic city in the world, New York is only a few hours away, by drive, from Boston. Lancaster, MA, 01523 Yelp/Galina M. Step into a little slice of heaven at this stunning garden park in Beverly. Don;t worry, this list isnt filled with things like take a drive. New England Aquarium Boston 4. You may want to put this relaxing salt cave at the top of your Massachusetts bucket list! After lunch, continue exploring the zoo! Boston You cant talk about places to visit in Massachusetts without leading off with the capital city of Boston. Help celebrate Plymouth's 400th Birthday on this day trip. All rights reserved. Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Hours: Sun up to sun down. Massachusetts Family Activities It's one of the largest flea markets in New England, where over 500 exhibitors gather to showcase their eclectic wares. Looking for something more curated? Related: Best Things to Do in Hyannis, MA, Related: Restaurants: Hyannis, Massachusetts, 137 Warren AvePlymouth, MA 02360(508) 746-1622Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Book with confidence with our Low Price Guarantee. Visit our compilation article of, With ice cream, attractions, and rides, a trip to Kimball Farm in Westford is a fantastic day trip for the entire family. Toll-Free: 800-882-8859, Mountain resort has all the activities, accommodations, amenities for A+ family vacation, 61 Market Street, Unit 1C Hiking trails can be found in state parks as well on the grounds of many historic museums, some that challenge even the most experienced and many for the casual day hiker. Day Trips from Massachusetts Long Hill Reservation, Beverly. If you click on an affiliate link we provide, we may receive compensation. 1. Filter to see tours in the language(s) youre looking for. 90 Great Things to Do in Massachusetts. Visit our compilation article of 20 jaw-dropping places in Massachusetts for some ideas. We have reviews of the best places to see in Massachusetts. This is one of the most spectacular must-visit places in Massachusetts that you are sure to love. 1. History is more than educational, its downright fun, at Old Sturbridge Village, where generations of families have been coming for years to explore rural life in an 1830s New England village. One of the most unique towns in the entire U.S. is Provincetown, and because its small and easily walkable, Plus, the friendly guides are well-educated about the historic landmarks and friendly enough to accommodate your queries. Visit the EARTH Discovery Center to hear from one of our Earth Educators about the many ambassador animals. New York Source: shutterupeire / shutterstock New York City Quite possibly the most iconic city in the world, New York is only a few hours away, by drive, from Boston. Day Trips in Massachusetts With Kids Day Trips In Massachusetts Review of: Martha's Vineyard Day Trip with Optional Island Tour from Boston, Review of: Boston to Coastal Maine & Kennebunkport Guided Daytrip with Trolley Tour, Review of: Best of Boston Small Group Tour w/Boat Cruise + USS Constitution, Review of: Boston to Newport Small-Group Day Trip with Breakers & Marble House Admission, Review of: Boston to New Hampshire Fall Foliage White Mountains Day Trip, Review of: Full-Day Minivan Tour of Revolutionary Boston, Lexington and Concord, Review of: Boston to Coastal Maine Private Day Trip, Review of: Salem, Kennebunkport, Kittery, and Portsmouth Private Day Tour, Review of: Plymouth and South Shore Full Day Private Tour, Review of: Private tour of Martha's Vineyard with lunch included, Note that forum content are individual perspectives of forum posters and not the opinion of Tripadvisor. This post contains affiliate links, and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost for you. Alongside your private driver and separate, Enjoy this private full day tour with your own private driver and official tour guide and explore the vibrant coast of Maine, Escape the city for the day and visit the charming, historic Newport mansions in coastal Newport, Rhode Island! Freelance writer and strawberry eater. A day trip here is a great way to support local business and connect with a part of Massachusetts history. These include Edgartown and Oak Bluffs. The museum also features traveling and interactive exhibits. Stone Zoo is a superb pit stop for children ages 3 and up, making it one of the top kid-friendly places to go near you in Massachusetts. We independently evaluate all recommended services and products. This gingerbread village should be at the top of your Massachusetts bucket list. There are various events offered throughout the year, but you can visit at any time to explore the park. Head to the Four Elements Salon and Spa in Westport and spend a few hours in their therapeutic salt cave which is meant to soothe and heal the body and mind. When you enter Springfield Science of Museum, youll be surrounded by the wonders of physical and natural science. These folks from Texas got some Southern hospitality from a local tour guide named Henry. Trips Cape Codder Resorts indoor waterpark is perfect for kids ages 3 and up. Weve highlighted a few fun and affordable day trips that are sure to make you smile. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? You can pass the TD Garden, Quincy Market, and the home court of the Celtics. Massachusetts is one of the best places to take a road trip and it's small enough to see several places in one day or over the course of a weekend. There are also several live music venues. Stone Zoo Stoneham 10. We love the Nantucket Whaling Museum, which offers a view into Nantuckets history as a whaling city. An Abandoned Places Road Trip. With this, Experience the best of Newport, Rhode Island on a private, guided day trip tour in a comfortable luxury vehicle. Nestled out in Western Massaschusetts, this river community boasts some truly gorgeous natural scenery and one of the best bookstores in the world: the famous Montague Bookmill. The Bay State is filled with breathtaking beauty and fascinating spots you just cant find anywhere else. Stone Zoo Stoneham 10. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Eagle Street, Eagle St, North Adams, MA 01247, USA. Updated! Options include Newport, Rhode Island, where you can explore the Newport Mansions and the beautiful Cliff Walk, as well as Salem New Hampshire, where you can visit the amusement park Canobie Lake Park. 16 College Ln, Northampton, MA 01063, USA 4. WIth the CityPASS, youll pay for one ticket and then get admission to multiple attractions. Martin you were awesome! Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Day Trips In Massachusetts Ocean Edge offers so many family activities, including special programming during school vacations and holidays. And, did we mention that there are tons of family resorts near the area? Youll have to stay on property to use the water park, so plan an overnight stay. Cape Cod National Seashore is a wondrous and heavenly destination for visitors of all ages. At the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum on Congress Street, lets you participate in interactive exhibits and sample historic tea blends. Massachusetts Bucket List Kid Friendly Day Trips You dont have to be guests of the resort to enjoy this indoor waterpark since there are day passes available. You can even choose to stay in Boston and take various day trips from Boston as well as explore the city. 1. They've been around since 1895 and are kept in bloom all through the winter. Island Queen 75 Falmouth Heights Road Falmouth, MA, 02540 Phone: 508-548-4800 First thing your kids will love about your Vineyard vacation: the ferry trip over Your kids will love Marthas Vineyard and the first thing theyll love is the trip over on board the Island Queen. In Massachusetts If you love bargain-hunting and retro treasures, the Raynham Flea Market will be your new favorite haunt. Although I grew up in New England, I only started visiting Rockport a few years ago. Moreover, there are activities and games that enhance the motor and physical skills of your little ones. This can be a good way to see everything quickly and get a good understanding of the history of Boston. The ride was so comfortable and our driver Mostafa was so gracious and kind. Phone: 617-471-1700, Families valued by this historic South Shore city, 37 Corey Road -- Route 43 Salem, which is famous for the Salem witch trials from the 1600s, is located about 40 minutes outside of Boston on the North Shore and is one of the best day trips from Boston. Head to Gloucester for one of the most enchanting attractions around. If you want to explore the entire city and its history in one sitting, this activity is the way to go. We have reviews of the best places to see in Massachusetts. 1 Long WharfBoston, MA 02110(617) 227-4321Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Its relatively small, about 47 miles total, but theres lots to do. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Day Trips In Massachusetts Phone: 508-678-1100 We toured 2 homes and had enough time in each to explore the rooms. Boston is filled with family activities and is one of the best places to visit if you are hoping to see historical sites. We had kids ranging in age from 10-14 and they all agreed it was their favorite thing we did in Boston! There are so many places you can add to your Massachusetts bucket list that it can be quite overwhelming. You can score tons of vintage stuff on the cheap, or check out some locally-made products you won't find anywhere else. Springfield is located about 2 hours from Boston and three hours and fifteen minutes from New York City. You can also visit the authors birthplace, other colonial homes and colorful seaside gardens. Among its 16 renovated galleries are those with artifacts from the Revolutionary War, including one of the lanterns that started Paul Revere on his famous ride, as well as muskets, swords, canes and cannon balls. An Abandoned Places Road Trip. Cape Cod Childrens Museum Mashpee 7. Travel west of Boston to Concord Massachusetts, where you can visit Minute Man National Historical Park. Things to Do in Massachusetts, United States: See Tripadvisor's 2,289,405 traveler reviews and photos of Massachusetts tourist attractions. Crane Beach, with a wide range of activities, will satisfy kiddos of all ages. Like Nantucket, you can bring your car on the island if you book a car ferry. Head to Manchester-by-the-Sea to experience this place for yourself. There may no such thing as a free lunch, but there are many great fun activities in Massachusetts that are free if you know where to look. 90 Great Things to Do in Massachusetts. Things to do in Massachusetts | MA Tourism If you're looking for a place to take the kids this weekend in Massachusetts, this is the guide to see. Highland Street Foundation sponsors Free Fun Fridays in the Summer opening up so many great location. Massachusetts native. Summer Camp Guide Boston Daytrips for Families with Kids Day trips from Boston are diverse and plentiful. Completely plan a fun day out with the whole family, using our guide to the coolest kids day trips in Massachusetts. With a red-white-and-blue painted stripe down Hope Street, it exudes Americana. Whats more, it lets you encounter historical role players that portray the 17th-century pilgrims who helped shape New England. I can't believe it's that expensive for a bottle of water and a sandwich. He also took pictures for us so that we had nothing do but enjoy the day. Thank you! Find fun and unusual things to do and places to visit for all visitors, like outdoor adventures; children's activities; fun foods; historic spots; attrractions off the beaten path They've been around since 1895 and are kept in bloom all through the winter.