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Boston is one of America’s oldest cities that is full of history and culture. For those that wish to take a great road trip, there are several great options. Boston is not too far from quaint, historical little towns, gorgeous beaches and even a national forest. These road trips are three hours or less from downtown Boston-traffic permitting. Read on to learn all about these best road trips from Boston.
Best Road Trips from Boston
Discover America’s Hometown of Plymouth, Massachusetts
Just one hour south on Route 3 from Boston will get you to marvelous Plymouth, Massachusetts. Plymouth is the first settlement in New England founded in 1620 by the settlers aboard the famous Mayflower. The town has many historical sites including Pilmouth Plantation, a recreation of the original settlement, and historical buildings such as Harlow Old Fort House and Jabez Howland House. Stop by Plymouth Rock and see the famous site where it is believed the pilgrims landed and first settled.
Learn About the Salem Witch Trials
Salem, Massachusetts is world known as the location of the infamous Salem Witch Trials that took place in 1692 and 1693. These witch trials are the reason why Salem is a popular Halloween seasonal retreat to this day. The residents of Salem are quite proud of the little town’s witchcraft association. It is no wonder that The Witch House Museum is a wildly popular attraction in the city.
Besides 17th century witchcraft sites, Salem has many other places of historical significance. The House of Seven Gables dates back to 1668 and is one of the oldest timber framed houses in the country. The Salem Maritime National Historic Site has a replica of an 18th century ship and many restored historical buildings.
Visit One of America’s Oldest Capital Cities
A one hour drive from Boston will get you to Rhode island’s historic capital, Providence. Exiles from the Massachusetts Bay colonies founded the city in 1636. While in the town visit the First Baptist Church in America, and the Stephen Hopkins House for some history lessons. Stroll along Benefit Street and see the beautiful Victorian and 18th century Federal Houses.
Spend Time at A National Seashore
Not only a popular retreat for Bostonians, Cape Cod is also a favorite beach destination for many on the East Coast. Besides beaches, visitors love to hike, bike and rollerblade on the 22 mile long Cape Cod Rail Trail. The Wellfleet Drive-In is a great place to have a nostalgic time with the original 1950s mono speakers and vintage welcome reel. Stop by the unique Sandwich Glass Museum and see historical and modern exhibits of glass art.
The Cape Cod National Seashore has amazing sandy beaches along the tip of the cape. In Provincetown, enjoy an amazing lobster dinner from The Lobster Pot or some New England Clam Chowder from P-Town Canteen. Wonderful Cape Cod is about a 2 hour and 10 minute drive from Boston.
See A Historic Lighthouse on Block Island
It is worth the three hour trek to see the historic Block Island Lighthouse in Rhode Island. This tiny island is located approximately halfway between the mainland and Montauk on Long Island. In town, you can browse at the quirky shops and dine on curry lobster bisque and steak au poivre at Kimberley’s. To get to Block Island, travel to Point Judith, Rhode Island to access the Block Island Ferry.
Hike the Famous Appalachian Trail
Enjoy 1,200 square miles of nature at White Mountain National Forest in northern New Hampshire. This peaceful haven is located just 132 miles from Boston, this makes it an ideal retreat from the big city. Take a journey and see the spectacular 6,288 foot Mount Washington and hike on the historic Appalachian Trail, which passes through the park. Visitors can also drive the very steep road to the summit and see breathtaking views at the top.
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