While Boston is known for its vibrant city life, there are plenty of charming towns and cozy retreats just a short drive away. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, a romantic getaway, or a fun-filled family vacation, these destinations offer an array of options to suit every taste and budget.
1. Salem: A Historical Haven
Distance from Boston: 17 miles
Highlights:
- Rich history associated with the infamous Salem Witch Trials
- Bewitching architecture and charming cobblestone streets
- Salem Witch Museum, House of the Seven Gables, and other historical landmarks
Accommodation Options:
- Hawthorne Hotel: A historic landmark with luxurious rooms and a prime location in downtown Salem
- The Merchant: A boutique hotel offering cozy and modern accommodations in the heart of the Witch City
- Salem Waterfront Hotel & Marina: A waterfront property with stunning views and easy access to Salem Harbor
2. Marblehead: A Coastal Gem
Distance from Boston: 18 miles
Highlights:
- Picturesque harbor and historic waterfront homes
- Charming boutiques and art galleries
- Abbot Hall Historical Society Museum and Marblehead Museum & Historical Society
Accommodation Options:
- The Harbor Light Inn: A waterfront inn with stunning views of Marblehead Harbor
- The Crown & Anchor: A historic bed and breakfast in the heart of the Old Town neighborhood
- Marblehead Inn: A cozy and comfortable inn offering a home away from home experience
3. Newburyport: A Maritime Charmer
Distance from Boston: 35 miles
Highlights:
- Quaint downtown area with cobblestone streets and historic architecture
- Thriving arts scene with galleries, theaters, and live music venues
- Parker River National Wildlife Refuge for nature lovers
Accommodation Options:
- The Riverfront Inn: A charming waterfront inn offering cozy rooms and a peaceful atmosphere
- The Compass Rose Inn: A romantic bed and breakfast with elegant accommodations and a cozy fireplace lounge
- The Garrison Inn: A historic inn with spacious rooms and beautiful gardens
4. Gloucester: A Fishing Paradise
Distance from Boston: 38 miles
Highlights:
- Picturesque working waterfront with fishing boats and seafood restaurants
- Stage Fort Park for hiking and stunning coastal views
- Gloucester Maritime Museum and Beauport Hotel Museum
Accommodation Options:
- The Gloucester House: A waterfront hotel with spacious rooms and a heated rooftop pool
- The Addison Choate Inn: A historic bed and breakfast with charming rooms and a cozy common area
- The Bass Rocks Ocean Inn: A secluded oceanfront inn with stunning views and a private beach
5. Portsmouth, NH: A Coastal Escape
Distance from Boston: 55 miles
Highlights:
- Historic downtown area with charming shops, boutiques, and restaurants
- Strawbery Banke Museum, a living history museum showcasing American colonial life
- Prescott Park, a beautiful waterfront park with gardens and live performances
Accommodation Options:
- Wentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel & Spa: A luxurious waterfront hotel with a private beach and a world-class spa
- Hotel Portsmouth: A modern and stylish hotel in the heart of downtown Portsmouth
- The Ale House Inn: A cozy and comfortable inn with a popular tavern and live music
6. Rockport: A Picturesque Artists’ Colony
Distance from Boston: 40 miles
Highlights:
- Coastal charm with stunning granite cliffs and beaches
- Thalia Theater for the performing arts and Rockport Art Association & Museum
- Halibut Point State Park for hiking, birdwatching, and stunning ocean views
Accommodation Options:
- Bearskin Neck Motor Lodge: A cozy waterfront motel with stunning views of Bearskin Neck
- The Inn at Castle Hill: A historic mansion-turned-hotel with elegant accommodations and a private beach
- Rockport Inn and Suites: A comfortable and convenient hotel in the heart of downtown Rockport
7. Cambridge: A Cultural Hub
Distance from Boston: 3 miles
Highlights:
- Home to Harvard University and MIT
- Vibrant arts scene with museums, theaters, and live music venues
- Central Square, an eclectic neighborhood with diverse restaurants and shops
Accommodation Options:
- The Charles Hotel: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Charles River
- The Kendall Hotel: A modern and stylish hotel near MIT and the Kendall Square neighborhood
- The Inn at Harvard: A historic bed and breakfast in the heart of Harvard Square
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Avoid visiting Salem during the Halloween season if you prefer to avoid crowds and long lines.
- Be aware of parking restrictions and fees in some of these towns, especially during peak season.
- Make reservations in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, to secure the best accommodations and availability.
- Pack for all types of weather, as New England weather can be unpredictable, especially near the coast.
- Allow plenty of time to explore these destinations, as there’s much to see and do in each one.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re seeking a historical adventure, a coastal retreat, or a cultural escapade, there are countless charming towns and cozy retreats just outside of Boston. From Salem’s witchy past to Newburyport’s maritime allure, each destination offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. So, pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and embark on a memorable getaway outside of Boston’s bustling city streets.