Summers in Massachusetts are a pretty magical time. Beach days, bonfires, and barbeques are an essential part of the season, but the day may come when you want to break out of your “summer rut.” When that day arrives, try one of these epic trips that will take you to the coolest corners of the state and give you summer memories that will last a lifetime. These are some of the best day trips in Massachusetts you can take.

  1. Island Alpaca Company, Martha’s Vineyard

Island Alpaca Company A trip to the Vineyard doesn’t mean you have to spend all day at the beach. Head off the beaten path and check out this amazing alpaca farm that offers meet and greets with the animals and an awesome gift shop. Island Alpaca Company prides itself on treating the alpacas like family, so all the creatures you’ll meet here are super friendly. It’s one of the most unique things to do around Massachusetts.

Visit the Island Alpaca Company website for more information. 1 Head of the Pond Rd, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, USA

  1. The Wonderful World Of Dr. Seuss Museum, Springfield

Springfield Museums Could your summer use a dose of whimsy? Check out the first-ever Dr. Seuss museum in Springfield. This interactive and educational museum brings the colorful world of Dr. Seuss to life through amazing exhibits and events that are geared towards the younger crowd but can be enjoyed by all ages. If you’re a fan of his classic children’s stories, you need to visit this enchanting museum for yourself. It’s one of the best places to take the entire family. Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA

Read our previous coverage to learn more about The Wonderful World Of Dr. Seuss Museum in Massachusetts. The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, 21 Edwards St, Springfield, MA 01103, USA

  1. Eagle Street Beach Party, North Adams

Facebook/North Adams Head to this incredible Berkshire beach party this summer for some serious fun in the sun. Scheduled for mid-July, downtown North Adams will be transformed into a sandy beach filled with tropical decor and plenty of activities for the whole family. Bring the kids for sandcastles, face-painting, and crafts during the day, and then head back after day for an adults-only margarita party on the “beach.”

Visit the Explore North Adams website for more information on one of the best day trips in Massachusetts to take this summer. Eagle Street, Eagle St, North Adams, MA 01247, USA

  1. Long Hill Reservation, Beverly

Yelp/Galina M. Step into a little slice of heaven at this stunning garden park in Beverly. Long Hill Reservation feels like something out of a romantic novel, with winding manicured paths that will take you through fragrant rose gardens and groves of blooming cherry trees. There is also more than 100 acres of fruit tree orchards to wander through. Address: Long Hill Reservation 572 Essex Street, Beverly, MA

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Long Hill Reservation, one of the best day trips in Massachusetts. Long Hill, 572 Essex St, Beverly, MA 01915, USA

  1. Moore State Park, Paxton

TripAdvisor/A TripAdvisor Member This lush state park is a hidden gem that deserves your attention. Featuring shady woodland paths, a beautiful pond, waterfalls, and a historic mill site from 1747, Moore State Park is a great destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Wander through the 400 acres of preserved land, spread a blanket in one of the flowering meadows, or explore the picturesque waterfalls. It’s one of the most enchanting places to visit if you’ve been searching for “day trips near me” in Massachusetts. Address: 1 Sawmill Road, Paxton, MA

Read a previous article to learn more about Moore State Park in Massachusetts. 1 Sawmill Rd, Paxton, MA 01612, USA

  1. Plymouth Waterfront, Plymouth

Flickr/MOTT Plymouth is the oldest town in Massachusetts and is best known for being the landing spot of the Mayflower. Today, the town’s waterfront district is a gorgeous place to explore. Spread a picnic blanket by the water and enjoy a sunset snack, head to Nelson Park and wander down the coastline, or stop by Mayflower Brewery for a delicious bite and a pint or two of locally-brewed beer.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Plymouth, one of the best day trips in Massachusetts. Plymouth, MA, USA

  1. Hilltop Orchards, Richmond

Facebook/Hilltop orchards Head to Richmond to experience this gorgeous farm and winery with so much to do for the whole family. Wine-lovers will be in luck, as you can enjoy free wine tastings here all year. If you’re not interested in that, you can also pick your own sweet apples, learn about cider-making, gobble up homemade cheeses, and simply enjoy the lush scenery. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Massachusetts. Address: 508 Canaan Road, Richmond, MA

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Hilltop Orchards in Massachusetts. 508 Canaan Rd, Richmond, MA 01254, USA

  1. The Cape Cod Inflatable Park, West Yarmouth

Facebook/Cape Cod Inflatable Park Want to cool off but don’t feel like dealing with the crowds at the state’s large waterparks? Then you’ll love this hidden inflatable park. Featuring full-size climbing structures and water slides that are actually massive inflatables, visitors of all ages will have the time of their lives bouncing, splashing, and sliding all over this huge park. Perfect for adults and kids, this park is a great alternative to the long lines and hectic atmosphere of your typical water park. Address: 518 Main Street, Route 28, West Yarmouth, MA

Read our previous post on the Cape Cod Inflatable Park in Massachusetts to learn more. 518 Main St, West Yarmouth, MA 02673, USA

  1. The Whydah Pirate Museum, West Yarmouth

Yelp/Barry C. Escape the heat and plunge yourself into a world of pirate battles and sunken treasure at this utterly unique Cape Cod destination. The Whydah is the only authenticated pirate wreck in the world, and you can explore a beautiful full-size replica of the ship at this museum, along with real pirate gold, cannons, and weapons. Check out the awesome dioramas of life aboard a pirate ship, and learn more about the piratical history of Massachusetts and New England. Address: 674 Route 28, West Yarmouth, MA

Read our previous coverage to learn more about The Whydah Pirate Museum in Massachusetts. 674 MA-28, West Yarmouth, MA 02673, USA

  1. Blackbird Doughnuts, Boston

Yelp/Chris L.

Instagram/Blackbird Doughnuts A day trip to Boston offers more than enough to fill your schedule, but when you’re craving something cool and sweet, head to Blackbird Doughnuts. They craft amazing doughnut ice cream sandwiches that will make you weak in the knees. It’s the perfect way to top off your urban explorations with something sweet and chilly.

Visit the Blackbird Donuts website for locations around Massachusetts.

Looking for more awesome ideas for the best day trips in Massachusetts? Check out this list of some of the best day trips in Massachusetts that deliver fun all year long.

Island Alpaca Company

A trip to the Vineyard doesn’t mean you have to spend all day at the beach. Head off the beaten path and check out this amazing alpaca farm that offers meet and greets with the animals and an awesome gift shop. Island Alpaca Company prides itself on treating the alpacas like family, so all the creatures you’ll meet here are super friendly. It’s one of the most unique things to do around Massachusetts.

Visit the Island Alpaca Company website for more information.

1 Head of the Pond Rd, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, USA

Springfield Museums

Could your summer use a dose of whimsy? Check out the first-ever Dr. Seuss museum in Springfield. This interactive and educational museum brings the colorful world of Dr. Seuss to life through amazing exhibits and events that are geared towards the younger crowd but can be enjoyed by all ages. If you’re a fan of his classic children’s stories, you need to visit this enchanting museum for yourself. It’s one of the best places to take the entire family. Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA

Read our previous coverage to learn more about The Wonderful World Of Dr. Seuss Museum in Massachusetts.

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, 21 Edwards St, Springfield, MA 01103, USA

Facebook/North Adams

Head to this incredible Berkshire beach party this summer for some serious fun in the sun. Scheduled for mid-July, downtown North Adams will be transformed into a sandy beach filled with tropical decor and plenty of activities for the whole family. Bring the kids for sandcastles, face-painting, and crafts during the day, and then head back after day for an adults-only margarita party on the “beach.”

Visit the Explore North Adams website for more information on one of the best day trips in Massachusetts to take this summer.

Eagle Street, Eagle St, North Adams, MA 01247, USA

Yelp/Galina M.

Step into a little slice of heaven at this stunning garden park in Beverly. Long Hill Reservation feels like something out of a romantic novel, with winding manicured paths that will take you through fragrant rose gardens and groves of blooming cherry trees. There is also more than 100 acres of fruit tree orchards to wander through. Address: Long Hill Reservation 572 Essex Street, Beverly, MA

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Long Hill Reservation, one of the best day trips in Massachusetts.

Long Hill, 572 Essex St, Beverly, MA 01915, USA

TripAdvisor/A TripAdvisor Member

This lush state park is a hidden gem that deserves your attention. Featuring shady woodland paths, a beautiful pond, waterfalls, and a historic mill site from 1747, Moore State Park is a great destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Wander through the 400 acres of preserved land, spread a blanket in one of the flowering meadows, or explore the picturesque waterfalls. It’s one of the most enchanting places to visit if you’ve been searching for “day trips near me” in Massachusetts. Address: 1 Sawmill Road, Paxton, MA

Read a previous article to learn more about Moore State Park in Massachusetts.

1 Sawmill Rd, Paxton, MA 01612, USA

Flickr/MOTT

Plymouth is the oldest town in Massachusetts and is best known for being the landing spot of the Mayflower. Today, the town’s waterfront district is a gorgeous place to explore. Spread a picnic blanket by the water and enjoy a sunset snack, head to Nelson Park and wander down the coastline, or stop by Mayflower Brewery for a delicious bite and a pint or two of locally-brewed beer.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Plymouth, one of the best day trips in Massachusetts.

Plymouth, MA, USA

Facebook/Hilltop orchards

Head to Richmond to experience this gorgeous farm and winery with so much to do for the whole family. Wine-lovers will be in luck, as you can enjoy free wine tastings here all year. If you’re not interested in that, you can also pick your own sweet apples, learn about cider-making, gobble up homemade cheeses, and simply enjoy the lush scenery. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Massachusetts. Address: 508 Canaan Road, Richmond, MA

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Hilltop Orchards in Massachusetts.

508 Canaan Rd, Richmond, MA 01254, USA

Facebook/Cape Cod Inflatable Park

Want to cool off but don’t feel like dealing with the crowds at the state’s large waterparks? Then you’ll love this hidden inflatable park. Featuring full-size climbing structures and water slides that are actually massive inflatables, visitors of all ages will have the time of their lives bouncing, splashing, and sliding all over this huge park. Perfect for adults and kids, this park is a great alternative to the long lines and hectic atmosphere of your typical water park. Address: 518 Main Street, Route 28, West Yarmouth, MA

Read our previous post on the Cape Cod Inflatable Park in Massachusetts to learn more.

518 Main St, West Yarmouth, MA 02673, USA

Yelp/Barry C.

Escape the heat and plunge yourself into a world of pirate battles and sunken treasure at this utterly unique Cape Cod destination. The Whydah is the only authenticated pirate wreck in the world, and you can explore a beautiful full-size replica of the ship at this museum, along with real pirate gold, cannons, and weapons. Check out the awesome dioramas of life aboard a pirate ship, and learn more about the piratical history of Massachusetts and New England. Address: 674 Route 28, West Yarmouth, MA

Read our previous coverage to learn more about The Whydah Pirate Museum in Massachusetts.

674 MA-28, West Yarmouth, MA 02673, USA

Yelp/Chris L.

Instagram/Blackbird Doughnuts

A day trip to Boston offers more than enough to fill your schedule, but when you’re craving something cool and sweet, head to Blackbird Doughnuts. They craft amazing doughnut ice cream sandwiches that will make you weak in the knees. It’s the perfect way to top off your urban explorations with something sweet and chilly.

Visit the Blackbird Donuts website for locations around Massachusetts.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Day Trips In Massachusetts April 06, 2022 Melissa M. What are some of the best kid-friendly day trips to take in Massachusetts? Massachusetts is a wonderful state to grow up as there are endless places to visit and activities that are perfect for children. If kids enjoy the literary classic, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” a trip to the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is perfect. See the pages of the author’s famous works come to life. Battleship Cove is also a wonderful place for families to visit. Take a tour of a battleship and submarine on this one-of-a-kind day trip adventure. What are some of the most unique attractions in Massachusetts? Whether it’s a wolf sanctuary, a paper house, or a flower bridge, the Bay State has plenty of unique attractions that can certainly invoke a sense of wonder and amazement.  What are some of the best getaway spots in Massachusetts? One of the Cape Cod beaches always makes an ideal getaway spot, especially in the summer months. Or you may wish to explore the city of Boston where you can visit world-class museums, take in a sporting event, see the sights, and learn the history. Heading to the Berkshires is another wonderful idea. Visit charming mountain towns, go for a hike, and take in the fresh air and beautiful scenery that surrounds you.  

The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Day Trips In Massachusetts

April 06, 2022

Melissa M.

What are some of the best kid-friendly day trips to take in Massachusetts? Massachusetts is a wonderful state to grow up as there are endless places to visit and activities that are perfect for children. If kids enjoy the literary classic, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” a trip to the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is perfect. See the pages of the author’s famous works come to life. Battleship Cove is also a wonderful place for families to visit. Take a tour of a battleship and submarine on this one-of-a-kind day trip adventure. What are some of the most unique attractions in Massachusetts? Whether it’s a wolf sanctuary, a paper house, or a flower bridge, the Bay State has plenty of unique attractions that can certainly invoke a sense of wonder and amazement.  What are some of the best getaway spots in Massachusetts? One of the Cape Cod beaches always makes an ideal getaway spot, especially in the summer months. Or you may wish to explore the city of Boston where you can visit world-class museums, take in a sporting event, see the sights, and learn the history. Heading to the Berkshires is another wonderful idea. Visit charming mountain towns, go for a hike, and take in the fresh air and beautiful scenery that surrounds you.  

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

Massachusetts is a wonderful state to grow up as there are endless places to visit and activities that are perfect for children. If kids enjoy the literary classic, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” a trip to the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is perfect. See the pages of the author’s famous works come to life. Battleship Cove is also a wonderful place for families to visit. Take a tour of a battleship and submarine on this one-of-a-kind day trip adventure.

What are some of the most unique attractions in Massachusetts?

Whether it’s a wolf sanctuary, a paper house, or a flower bridge, the Bay State has plenty of unique attractions that can certainly invoke a sense of wonder and amazement. 

What are some of the best getaway spots in Massachusetts?

One of the Cape Cod beaches always makes an ideal getaway spot, especially in the summer months. Or you may wish to explore the city of Boston where you can visit world-class museums, take in a sporting event, see the sights, and learn the history. Heading to the Berkshires is another wonderful idea. Visit charming mountain towns, go for a hike, and take in the fresh air and beautiful scenery that surrounds you.