Sure, holiday stress is a thing, however, this season is about so much more than organizing, budgeting, prepping, and decorating. If you feel like you've lost your Christmas spirit or you just want to squeeze the most fun possible into December, then you're in luck. We've compiled a Christmas bucket list featuring 11 activities in and around Boston to ensure that your holidays are absolutely enchanting.
Road trips are always fun, but this one is magical. Tour five different light displays near Boston in this 116-mile drive. You can do the road trip in one go or in stages. Either way, you’re in for an experience that’ll delight the whole family!
Head out to the Concord Colonial Inn to view ornate gingerbread creations. These culinary masterpieces are on display from November 27, 2017 to January 1, 2018. The inn is located at 48 Monument Square in Concord.
First established on Cape Cod, these Massachusetts stores have now spread to 21 states. Despite the expansion, they remain an enticing holiday destination. Just browsing can be a mood booster, but it’s also the perfect place to load up on decorations or pick up some gifts.
There are lots of Christmas tree farms around Boston. Houde’s is a family-run tree farm in Marlborough, order holiday pies while selecting a tree at Smolak Farms in North Andover, or drive over to Pakeen Farm in Canton and pair your shopping experience with donuts and cocoa.
Every year, Nova Scotia gifts a massive tree to Boston to express gratitude for our city’s aid in the wake of the Halifax Explosion. Not only is this a stunning tree, its message of friendship, collaboration and thankfulness also reflects the spirit of the holidays.
Whether you ice skate at the Frog Pond or one of Boston’s other outdoor rinks, this is a classic kid-friendly activity that’ll ensure smiles all around.
Santa and the missus, elves, snacks, and a mystery! You’ll find all this and a bewitching way to view one of our state’s best light displays aboard the Edaville Express in Carver.
Winter is much more manageable when you’re a fan of cold weather sports. Try some cross-country skiing at Weston Ski Track, just a short jaunt from the city. Alternatively, venture further afield with a trip to Wachusett Mountain.
9. Drive around a neighborhood that goes all out for Christmas.
Visiting Santa is a time-honored tradition for a reason – it brings joy to the little ones in your life. Some places even let your pet get in on the fun!
11. Dash through Back Bay in just a Santa Hat and Speedos…
…Or just watch. Around 700 people now participate in this charity fundraiser which takes place on December 9, 2017. The SSRun is quite the sight to behold!
What's on your Christmas bucket list this year? Tell us about the festive activities you have planned in the comments or on the Only In Boston Facebook page.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
While there are enough things to see and do in Boston to keep you busy for a lifetime, sometimes you’re just in the mood for a day trip. You'll want to visit popular destinations like Concord and Salem at least once in your lifetime, but these are the places that people suggest over and over again. Instead, mix things up and try a visit to somewhere a little different. Here are 10 unique destinations that you should consider for your next day trip. These may be some of the best day trips near Boston!
About two hours from Boston lies Doane’s Falls. This impressive, cascading waterfall is 175 feet high. An easy half-mile-long trail allows you to walk alongside Lawrence Brook as it tumbles over the rocks in three sections. If you’re in the mood to marvel at nature, a visit to Doane’s Falls Reservation is the way to go – it’s stunning at any time of year. Doane Falls is on Athol Road and it’s free to visit. It's one of the best day trips near Boston for the whole family.
Discover the natural beauty of Roger Williams Park, which is just an hour from Boston (or 52 miles away) in Providence. There’s a little something for everyone here. If you have kids in tow, the zoo, carousel, and zip line might be appealing. Looking for a more peaceful experience? Then stroll through the grounds where you’ll find lakes and a lovely Japanese Garden. It's one of the most unique day trips near Boston.
So you’ve already been to the Plimoth Patuxet Museums and seen Plymouth Rock. But that doesn’t mean you’ve seen all this town has to offer. Try some destination dining at Plane Jane’s Place. This restaurant is definitely a one-of-a-kind place. If you eat on the deck, you can watch planes taking off and landing right in front of you at Plymouth Municipal Airport. Afterward, stick around to explore Brewster Gardens or Ellisville Harbor State Park. There's so much to see and do in Plymouth!
Three times a year Brimfield, which is 65 miles or a little over an hour from Boston, transforms into a shopper’s paradise. You can find antiques and collectibles galore here! Whether you’re seeking furniture or a miniature Statue of Liberty for your living room, Brimfield can deliver! You'll have one of the exciting day trips near Boston at the Brimfield Antique Flea Market. It's the best place to hunt for treasures in the state!
One of the top beaches in the state is less than an hour and a half from Boston. If you fancy swimming, fishing, birding, or boating on a gorgeous two-mile-long beach, then head to 5 John Reed Road in Westport. You may love Horseneck Beach State Reservation so much you don’t want to leave… and that’s okay for a few nights, anyway, because camping is allowed.
When Bay Staters head to New Hampshire, we tend to gravitate towards the beach. But if you’re looking for a day trip destination that’s a winner year-round, try hitting Manchester instead. After making the 55-mile journey (it takes an hour in light traffic), wander through the Currier Art Museum, a cultural gem that is very manageable in terms of size. With Manchester's burgeoning foodie scene and natural beauty – check out Lake Massabesic or Livingston Park – there are plenty of entertainment options. It's one of the best getaway spots near Boston.
You may only have to drive a little over an hour to reach Sturbridge, but a trip to this living history museum transports you to the 1830s. Period costumes, 40 original buildings, and stagecoach rides make this a day trip to remember. The Old Sturbridge Village museum is located at 29 Stallion Hill Road in Sturbridge, Massachusetts.
Mansions lifted right out of a fairytale await a 68-mile (or hour and a half) ride away in Newport, Rhode Island. Admire the exteriors as you make your way along the cliff walk, then take a tour of the one that most appeals to you. The Breakers, the Elms, the Marble House… they’re all impressive. Newport happens to be one of the most historic and most memorable getaway sports near Boston.
Seaside villages often spring to mind when we’re thinking of places with small-town charm. However, don’t rule out a trip inland. Hudson lies 40 miles west of Boston, and this cute town is slowly being discovered. Its population hovers at around 19,000, yet you’ll find an unexpectedly diverse assortment of restaurants along with attractive architecture here. Embrace a slower pace of life as you browse stores, stop into the Hudson Creamery for ice cream, wander through the Silas Felton Historic District, and have a frosty beverage at the Medusa Brewing Company.
10. Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, Amherst
Show of hands: who wants a break from adulting? Next time life feels overwhelming, escape to
Amherst which is only two hours or 95 miles away to see the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. Actual kids, and kids at heart, will love this whimsical spot. The museum can be found at 125 West Bay Road in Amherst. It's one of the most family-friendly day trips near Boston.
Clearly, Boston lives up to its reputation as the gateway to New England. Have you been on any of these best day trips near Boston or taken any other unique day trips lately? Let us know in the comments!
