Unique Boston Day Trips & Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures


Go Off the Beaten Path: Unique Boston Day Trips & Adventures
Do something different and experience a new side of Boston when you get off the tourist track and explore lesser-known destinations. From off-beat neighborhoods to Boston day trips up the coast, our region is absolutely packed with unique treasures and things to do. Visit the site of the “shot heard ‘round the world” and see bullet holes from the American Revolution in Lexington and Concord. Explore woodland trails at World’s End and seaside restaurants in Marblehead. Find hidden-gem pizza parlors in South Boston and artsy bistros in Somerville. Embark on a Boston adventure that’s inspired by your unique interests and the city’s one-of-a-kind personality.

South Boston: Waterfront Character, Immigrant Culture & Community Spirit
Known as “Southie” by locals, South Boston is a diverse, blue-collar neighborhood with a rich history and a lot of heart. Here you’ll find more beaches and historical sites than in any other neighborhood in Boston – but the real attraction is the culture. The communities of Irish, Italian, Polish, and Lithuanian Americans who live here give South Boston a distinct personality and authentic character. Check out old-school Italian bistros and Irish taverns, trendy gastropubs and pizza parlors. Hang out with hipsters in the Seaport District, explore the trails at Castle Island, and relax in the sunshine at M Street Beach.

Marblehead: Stunning Coastal Scenery & Colonial Architecture
Encounter of the most dramatic seaside scenery in New England in this historic town, a coastal haven with more than 300 colonial-era homes. Strolling through Marblehead’s old neighborhoods is an incredible architectural tour. Just a short walk from the Old Town historic district, you’ll find a charming harbor with waterfront dining – the views are superb. Situated near Salem, Massachusetts about 19 miles north of Boston Common, Marblehead is one of the most popular Boston day trips for locals and travelers alike.

Hingham & World’s End: Fresh Air in a Peaceful Peninsula Park
Surrounded by water on three sides, World’s End is a 251-acre park on a peninsula overlooking Hingham Bay. Known for its outstanding biodiversity and miles of trails, it’s a local favorite for long walks in the woods. Spend an afternoon biking, hiking, or horseback riding in the summer. In the winter, you can indulge in cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. World’s End is about 18 miles south of Boston Common, and an easy destination for a quick escape into nature.

Quincy & Marina Bay: Boardwalk Strolling & Seaside Ambience
Discover a Nantucket-style boardwalk and excellent waterfront restaurants in Marina Bay, an East Boston oasis in the charming town of Quincy. Enjoy great views of Boston Harbor as you stroll along the boardwalk and savor the classic New England coastal atmosphere. Explore cute shops and watch yachts sail in and out of the large marina, which features 685 slips. The entire laid-back scene feels like it’s world’s away from Boston, but it’s just at Dorchester Bay (about 7.5 miles from Boston Common).

Artsy Somerville: Trendsetting Restaurants, Breweries & Galleries
Situated about three miles north of Boston Common, this hip and historic suburb boasts a distinct personality and a fun-loving vibe. Somerville’s at the forefront of Boston’s culinary scene, an epicenter of inventive eats and drinks. The neighborhood also hosts unique year-round events and festivals that highlight it’s funky personality, including art markets, puppet shows, and poetry slams.

Arlington: Muster Point for Minutemen Revolutionaries
Paul Revere raced through this village in Cambridge on his midnight ride to warn the colonists that “the British are coming!” Settled by European colonists in 1635, this village was the site where minutemen converged after the battles of Lexington and Concord to ambush the British. Twelve colonists died in the battle that ensued, including Jason Russell – and you can still see the bullet holes in his home. In Arlington you can also tour the Old Schwamb Mill to see water power at work, then stop by Harvard Yard.

Lexington & Concord: Where the American Revolution Began
As you follow along the historic Battle Road Trail, you can feel the past come alive as you’re transported back to April 19, 1775. At the Old North Bridge in Concord, you can almost hear the infamous “Shot Heard ‘Round the World” – one of the first shots of the American Revolution whose effects would reverberate across the globe and throughout history. Visit the Lexington Battle Green and tour historic buildings like John Hancock’s childhood home. Don’t miss Buckman’s Tavern; it still has a bullet hole in its door from the battle.

One-of-a-Kind Boston Boutique Hotel at Boston Common
Rebellious. Independent. Unique. See the city from a fresh perspective at Revere Hotel Boston Common, a locally-inspired oasis for free thinkers and world wanderers. Steps away from attractions like the Theater District and Newbury Street, our stylish boutique hotel is imbued with the city’s pioneering energy and forward-thinking spirit. Chic rooms and suites with local artwork overlook the Boston skyline and our Back Bay neighborhood. Savor authentic New England cuisine at Rebel’s Guild and toast your good fortune at Rooftop@Revere. From Back Bay Views to the delectable breakfast buffet, every element feels sophisticated and unique. Go off the beaten path and connect with the city in a new way at Revere Hotel.