Fall Day Trips Outside of Boston To Take in 2022

For Bostonians without cars who haven’t been able to drive to the Kancamagus leaf peeping or attend the Big E for fried dough and carnival rides, never fear. There are lots of cool fall destinations that are just a day trip away on public transportation. Get spooky, take in local culture, and live your best New England fall life on these mini getaways.

Pro Tip: If you’re traveling on the weekends be sure to buy a Weekend Pass for the MBTA Commuter Rail. It’s just $10 for unlimited rides all weekend long.

Salem, MA

• Distance: 21.9 miles from Downtown
• Transit: Newburport/Rockport Commuter Rail Line
• Info: It’s spooky season so we’re pretty much obligated to mention Salem. After all, the town is known for its involvement in the Salem Witch Trials and as a meeting ground for contemporary witches. Check out the Satanic Temple and their relatively new gallery space, have your tarot cards read, and learn about the haunted history of this New England town.
• Pro Tip: Do not drive to Salem in October. The commuter rail is just a 25-minute ride from Boston. Also, be sure to keep an eye on the train schedule close to Halloween, it’s different than normal and city officials are very stringent for the sake of crowd control.

Foxborough, MA 

• Distance: 27.3 miles from Downtown
• Transit: Franklin/Foxboro Commuter Rail Line
• Info: ‘Tis the season for football games and where better to root for the Pats than Gillette Stadium itself. The commuter rail goes directly out to the stadium and even if you don’t have tickets, Patriot Place is alive with bars and restaurants showing the game. 
• Pro Tip: Check the list of restaurants playing the game in advance and make a reservation to beat the crowds. There are also lots of ways to enjoy the area on a non-game day, including live music, comedy shows, shopping, eSports, a paintbar, and more. 

Lowell, MA 

• Distance: 31.1 miles from Downtown
• Transit: Lowell Commuter Rail Line
• Info: Lowell is a historic and up-and-coming city brimming with culture. This city was once the center of factory production during the industrial revolution and many homes and businesses are still located in those history-rich buildings by the river. There are many trendy restaurants and cool galleries to explore on these streets.
• Pro Tip: Check out Mill No. 5, an awesome multi use community space in one of the former factory buildings. They have a small art house movie theater, live music and events, a boozy coffee shop, local stores, a farmer’s market, and more. 

Providence, RI 

• Distance: 50 miles from Downtown
• Transit: Providence Commuter Rail Line
• Info: Providence is a thriving New England city much closer to Boston than many people realize, it’s just an hour away on the commuter rail. Home of the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) the city offers a vibrant art scene, delicious Italian food in Federal Hill, and a laundry list of historic sites.
• Pro Tip: One of the most beloved attractions in Providence is WaterFire, a unique fire installation and performance on three rivers in downtown Providence. The performances happen through early December, be sure to check the schedule before you plan your trip.

Worcester, MA

• Distance: 46.5 miles from Downtown
• Transit: Worcester Commuter Rail Line
• Info: Worcester is another industrial city that’s getting its groove back. Here you can dine at innovative restaurants and trendy cocktail bars, get cultured at the Worcester Art Museum, and see a show at the storied Palladium concert hall. 
• Pro Tip: Thanks to the POW! WOW! art festival, Worcester is home to dozens of beautiful murals from street artists around the world. Stroll through the streets to snap unparalleled Instagram shots of these beautiful pieces.

BONUS: If you do have access to a car, consider this additional magical New England spot.

Guilford, CT

• Distance: 142 miles from Downtown
• Transit: Car
• Info: Guilford is a quaint New England town with a rich history and a wide spectrum of activities to explore. Visit one of the many local farms, shop small businesses on the scenic Main Street, and learn about the town’s storied history on a walking tour.
• Pro Tip: Be sure to check out Strawberry Hollow Farm, a fall fantasy with pumpkin patches, seasonal flowers, and a charming farmstand shop selling festive decor and local products.

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Photo by @travelikealocalma

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