The Best Day Trips from Concord, MA
Concord, Massachusetts, is a fantastic home base for exploring New England. Whether you’re looking for scenic nature escapes, historic landmarks, or charming coastal towns, there are plenty of day trip options within a short drive. Here are some of the best day trips from Concord.
1. Boston, MA (30-minute drive)
Why Visit: A vibrant city with historic sites, museums, and a thriving food scene.
Top Attractions: Freedom Trail, Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, Fenway Park.
Best Activities: Walk the Freedom Trail, visit the Museum of Fine Arts, explore the Seaport District.
2. Salem, MA (50-minute drive)
Why Visit: Famous for its rich colonial history and the Salem Witch Trials.
Top Attractions: Peabody Essex Museum, Salem Witch Museum, House of the Seven Gables.
Best Activities: Take a historic walking tour, explore the waterfront, visit during Halloween season.
3. Lexington & Concord Battlefield (10-minute drive)
Why Visit: Walk the grounds where the American Revolution began.
Top Attractions: Minute Man National Historical Park, Battle Green, Buckman Tavern.
Best Activities: Explore the historic trails, watch reenactments, visit the visitor centers.
4. Cape Ann, MA (1-hour drive)
Why Visit: A coastal retreat with stunning beaches and fresh seafood.
Top Attractions: Rockport’s Bearskin Neck, Gloucester’s Good Harbor Beach, Hammond Castle Museum.
Best Activities: Enjoy a seafood lunch by the harbor, take a whale-watching tour, visit artist galleries.
5. Walden Pond State Reservation (5-minute drive)
Why Visit: A serene natural escape with literary significance.
Top Attractions: Henry David Thoreau’s cabin site, walking trails, swimming areas.
Best Activities: Hike the trails, swim in the pond, enjoy a peaceful picnic.
6. Portsmouth, NH (1-hour drive)
Why Visit: A charming seaport town with colonial-era charm and lively downtown.
Top Attractions: Strawbery Banke Museum, Market Square, Prescott Park.
Best Activities: Explore historic homes, shop local boutiques, enjoy waterfront dining.
7. The Berkshires, MA (2-hour drive)
Why Visit: A scenic mountain region known for arts, culture, and outdoor adventure.
Top Attractions: Tanglewood Music Center, The Clark Art Institute, Mount Greylock.
Best Activities: Hike the Appalachian Trail, visit art museums, attend a summer concert.
8. Plum Island & Newburyport, MA (1-hour drive)
Why Visit: A beautiful coastal getaway with pristine beaches and a quaint town center.
Top Attractions: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Plum Island Beach, Newburyport Boardwalk.
Best Activities: Birdwatching, strolling along the scenic harbor, dining at waterfront restaurants.
9. Harvard University & Cambridge, MA (30-minute drive)
Why Visit: A historic and intellectual hub with great restaurants and cultural sites.
Top Attractions: Harvard Yard, Harvard Museum of Natural History, MIT campus.
Best Activities: Walk through Harvard Square, browse independent bookstores, enjoy local cafés.
10. Mount Monadnock, NH (1.5-hour drive)
Why Visit: One of the most hiked mountains in the world, offering incredible summit views.
Top Attractions: Mount Monadnock State Park, Dublin Lake, local hiking trails.
Best Activities: Hike to the summit for panoramic views, explore nearby small towns, visit local breweries.
Plan Your Next Adventure from Concord
Living in Concord means easy access to some of New England’s best destinations. Whether you're in the mood for history, nature, or coastal charm, there’s a perfect day trip waiting for you.
Looking for a Home in Concord?
If you love the idea of living in a town with easy access to these amazing destinations, The Tom and Joanne Team can help you find your perfect home. Contact us at info@tomandjoanneteam.com to start your search!
