Boston is a city teeming with history and culture that offers an array of vacation-worthy attractions. But residents who want to take a vacation aren’t likely to be all that enticed with a trip to their own backyard. Fortunately, the surrounding states that make up New England are rife with budget-friendly attractions that offer just as many exciting adventures. If you are looking for some cheap vacation ideas in the New England area, then read on as we explore some fantastic out-of-town vacation ideas for Bostonians and share tips for keeping your trip under budget.
Last-Minute Flights from Boston
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The first thing you are going to want to think about when planning a vacation is how you are going to get there. Driving is usually the cheaper option, if your destination isn’t too far away. For farther destinations, finding a cheap last-minute flight from Boston can be the key to keeping your vacation under budget. Keep an eye on flight prices, consider the cost of gas, and think about how long you can stand to sit in a car. Sometimes flying is the only way to make it work for your time frame, so finding a good price is crucial!
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
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Escape the city buzz with an hour’s drive to Cape Cod. Well known for its pristine beaches, adorable coastal towns, and delectable seafood restaurants, it's the perfect destination for a budget-friendly getaway. Check out Cape Cod's beautiful National Seashore, take a ferry to Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket, and savor fresh seafood at local clam shacks. There is plenty of scenery to enjoy on a drive or a hike, plus beaches to waste away the day without spending a dime, so you won’t have to worry about spending money to have fun.
Providence, Rhode Island
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Another destination that is about an hour’s journey south of Boston by car, Providence is a city filled with history, culture, and culinary delights. Wander through the historic East Side, visit the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, and indulge in the city's diverse culinary scene. With free art installations and beautiful parks, Providence offers affordable attractions for all. If you are flying into Providence, the good news is that Rhode Island T.F. Green Airport is well-connected, often offering competitive airfares.
Portland, Maine
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Escape to Portland, Maine, a picturesque coastal town just a couple hours' drive from Boston. Venture to the Old Port district, embark on a scenic harbor cruise, and indulge in delectable seafood at local eateries. For a good photo opp, head to the iconic Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. Less than two hours away from Boston, there is little need to worry about trying to find a flight for this destination.
White Mountains, New Hampshire
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The perfect vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts, the White Mountains of New Hampshire offer a variety of adventures for little or no cost. Enjoy hiking, camping, and scenic drives in the heart of New England's inspiring wilderness. The can’t-miss destinations you’ll want to explore are the Flume Gorge and the Cog Railway to the summit of Mount Washington. A scenic road trip through New Hampshire will take you a little under 2 hours and basically works as a preliminary nature excursion.
Mystic, Connecticut
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Mystic, Connecticut, melds together maritime history with family-friendly attractions for a great family vacation full of adventure and edu-tainment. Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum, home to historic ships and exhibits for a history lesson. The Mystic Aquarium offers exciting marine life encounters that kids will love. And of course, you can enjoy fresh seafood along the scenic Mystic River.
Toronto, Canada
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Toronto, the vibrant and diverse metropolis on the shores of Lake Ontario, offers budget-conscious travelers plenty of opportunities to explore without overspending. From wandering through its dynamic neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Queen Street West, to discovering free and low-cost attractions like the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto is brimming with budget-friendly experiences. You can indulge in international cuisines at affordable local eateries, explore its numerous parks, and enjoy scenic walks along the waterfront. With a well-connected public transportation system, affordable accommodations, and numerous free events throughout the year, Toronto welcomes travelers with open arms, regardless of their budget constraints, for an unforgettable and wallet-friendly urban adventure.
