The state of Massachusetts has historic towns, vast natural landscapes, and stunning beaches packed into its borders. There are plenty of options for weekend getaways in Massachusetts including the best getaways for families and couple getaways in Massachusetts. For great getaways, Massachusetts style consider Boston, the North Shore, the South Shore, Cape Cod and the Islands. The attractions in Western Massachusetts are also easily reachable from both Boston and New York.
Table of Contents
Weekend Getaways In Massachusetts
Weekend getaways in Massachusetts are easily reachable from the New England states as well as New York. With Boston as an international hub, travellers from further away can get a cheap flight for a weekend away to either the city or the places nearby.
Although Boston is to visit as a day trip, and Salem, Plymouth, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod are easy day trips from Boston, we recommend that you spend more time in these places to truly appreciate them.
Boston
The capital city of Massachusetts is steeped in history, rich with culture, offers spectacular architecture, and has plenty to do for the whole family. The downtown waterfront area is the perfect place to enjoy a meal or go shopping.
Take the family to a ballgame at Fenway Park where they can see the legendary Boston Red Sox in action. If you are looking for a green escape, the Boston Public Gardens is ideal for a tranquil afternoon stroll, or make a trip to the Museum of Fine Arts to appreciate amazing art.
Boston is a great year-round destination including Boston at Christmas, making it one of the best weekend getaways in Massachusetts.
For getaways, Massachusetts main city, Boston is a New England favourite with many regional and national transportation connections.
Salem
Although Salem is famous for its 17th century witch trials, the city was an important port during colonial times. Along with the witch and ghost tours, make sure to explore the rest of this historic town. If you have time, you can venture to one of the coastal towns of Massachusetts North Shore like beautiful Rockport MA.
Everyone comes here hoping to learn about Salem’s infamous witch trials and nowhere is it as perfectly displayed as at the Salem Witch Museum and The Witch House at Salem. The town really comes into its own for a Halloween getaway weekend.
The Peabody Museum is an excellent maritime museum. The House of Seven Gables from Nathaniel Hawthorn’s famed novel is equally captivating and showcases treasures from colonial New England.
Salem Maritime National Park is another National park in Massachusetts testifying to its important relationship with the sea.
Plymouth
Dive back to where America’s story began. Since the Pilgrim’s landed in 1620, Plymouth has been an integral part of American history. The most popular site in town is the famous Plymouth Rock but you should also visit Plimoth Plantation to understand how an early American settlement functioned.
A life-size replica of the Mayflower resides at Pilgrim Memorial State Park where visitors can go on board and explore what difficulties the Pilgrims had to endure in their journey to a new land.
Visiting Plymouth Rock is a New England bucket list item for many people.
Nantucket
Weekend getaways in Massachusetts don’t get more perfect than on Nantucket. Stroll around the historic district to enjoy shopping and fine dining or head to the beach to catch some rays. Nature lovers adore the hiking and bike riding trails along the coast and through the central farmlands.
Don’t forget to pay a visit to the vineyard, brewery, and distillery to sample some of the drinks produced on Nantucket. The island’s compact size makes it perfect for a quick getaway as you can explore it all with ease including the famous Nantucket lighthouses. The stylish hotels and cozy inns on the island offer typical New England charm and hospitality.
Sunset over Harbor House in the Nantucket harbor
Martha’s Vineyard
This is one of the most coveted getaways in Massachusetts and can easily be reached by plane or by ferry. Summer holiday weekends like Memorial Day and July 4th weekends are super popular with tourists. The beaches on the island are the main attractions and you can spend hours lazing about on the white sandy beaches.
If you want to get your blood flowing, rent a bicycle and cycle along the dramatic clay cliffs for spectacular views over the ocean from one of the Martha’s Vineyard lighthouses. Unlike what the name might suggest, there is no vineyard on the island. There are plenty of top-class restaurants where you can get your foodie fix as well as fantastic places to stay.
A cheese and wine picnic on the beach is a fun thing to do on Martha’s Vineyard.
Cape Cod
This is one of the most loved beach destinations in the country, with more than 40-miles of marvelous coastline to be enjoyed. Explore the Cape Cod lighthouses, the varied Cape Cod towns, and the many other attractions on Cape Cod.
Don’t miss the sunset from Herring Cove Beach or head to Provincetown for its artsy charm. Get up close and personal with nature by whale watching or embark on a dune adventure with fishing or sailing as an added bonus. Although the quintessential summer in New England destination, Cape Cod is fabulous for a fall getaway in Massachusetts too.
Children playing on the Falmouth MA beaches
Berkshires
Weekend getaways, Massachusetts-style, also include a healthy dose of mountain escapes. The Berkshires has everything and more that you would want from a mountain destinations, including some hidden gems in Massachusetts. The quaint towns capture the essence of New England culture and a visit to Lenox or Stockbridge are some of the attractions in Western Massachusetts.
Hiking is a favourite pastime in the Massachusetts state parks and state forests, with hikes suitable for all levels of fitness. Or rent a cabin and spend a romantic weekend getaway inside next to a crackling fireplace, soaking up the breathtaking scenery.
Bish Bash Falls in the beautiful Berkshires of Massachusetts, one of the must see places in New England
SPREAD THE WORD! PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!
We did not receive compensation of any form, monetary or otherwise, from any of the products, services, hotels etc mentioned in this article.
This site generates income via partnerships with carefully-curated travel and lifestyle brands and/or purchases made through links to them at no extra cost to you. More information may be found on our Disclosure Policy.
Leave a Reply