Fall is spectacular throughout New England, so now is the time to get out there and enjoy it. If you're feeling low on inspiration when it comes to day trips, consider visiting some of these eight spots this autumn. From apple picking to whale watching, there's a little something for everyone, and it's all waiting just a short drive away from Boston.
1. Head to Walden Pond in Concord and spend some time contemplating nature and transcendentalism…
…or just gaze at the trees reflected in the waters of this pretty pond. When you’re ready to stretch your legs, go for a hike under the colorful foliage. Try the 1.7-mile "heart healthy" trail that rings Walden Pond.
2. Go apple picking at one of the orchards tucked away in the countryside.
Dowse Orchards in Sherborn, Boston Hill Farm in North Andover, and Bolton Spring Farm in Bolton are just some of the charming orchards where you can pick your own fruit. When you’ve finished gathering your apple haul, don’t forget to stock up on apple cider and feast on apple cider donuts!
3. Get lost in a corn maze.
Spend an afternoon appreciating the simple pleasures of the season, like weaving your way through towering corn and picking out the perfect pumpkin. For a more boisterous experience, head to a farm that also offers corn cannons, hayrides, pumpkin bowling, and other creative ways to embrace fall – check out Connors Farm in Danvers or Sauchuk Farm in Plympton.
4. Wander off the beaten path in search of fall foliage.
While there are definitely great leaf peeping spots in the city, use the vibrant colors of the season as motivation to explore a new park or reservation. Have you discovered Francis William Bird Park in Walpole yet? This relaxing spot features stone bridges, frog ponds, plenty of trees, and three miles of family-friendly trails. Bird Park is located at 75 Wolcott Avenue in Walpole.
5. Germany certainly isn’t a feasible day trip from Boston, but you can still attend Oktoberfest.
Take your inner German to Newburyport to savor an evening of traditional food and, of course, beer. It’s worth arriving several hours in advance because this quaint, coastal town has plenty of other attractions to keep you busy. Newburyport Oktoberfest begins at 7:30 p.m. on October 14, 2017 and takes place at the Masonic Center. Other Oktoberfests near Boston include one in Hudson on September 30, 2017 and another in Worcester on September 28, 2017.
6. Fall means Halloween and Halloween means an excursion to Salem!
A day trip here can be as lighthearted or educational as you want. Learn about a tragic chapter in U.S. history at the Witch House and visit the memorial to the victims. There are plenty of ghost tours in Salem and most combine history with hauntings. Alternatively, just stroll around town and indulge in a little people watching – it's definitely an entertaining activity during October!
7. For a truly spooky day trip, drive to the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast Museum in Fall River.
Tours of this historic home are informative and intriguing, without being excessively gory. They take place on the hour, from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., and last for approximately 50 minutes. Extend your visit into an overnight stay… if you dare - the Borden House is infamous for paranormal sightings. The B&B is located at 230 2nd Street in Fall River. Afterwards, explore the USS Massachusetts or head to Dighton Rock State Park. You need to make an appointment to view the petroglyph-covered rock, but everyone is welcome to take advantage of this beautiful park.
8. Go whale watching.
The World Wildlife Fund ranks Massachusetts as one of the top ten places to go whale watching on the planet! The season runs from April through October, so it’s not too late to get out on the water and (hopefully) observe blue, pilot, and humpback whales in their natural environment. Whale watching tours leave from Boston, Plymouth, and Gloucester.
Have you taken any of these day trips? Do you have a favorite? Did we miss one that you think belongs on this list? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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