One of the best things about living on Massachusetts' North Shore/Merrimack Valley is that adventure is never far away! Whether your family enjoys beaches, amusement parks, hiking, museums, animals, or charming New England towns, countless destinations make for an unforgettable day trip—all within about two hours of home.
Pack a cooler, charge your camera, and hit the road to one of these fantastic family-friendly destinations.
1. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Drive Time: Approximately 45–60 minutes
This picturesque seaside city is perfect for a day of exploring.
Family Favorites
- Prescott Park
- Strawbery Banke Museum
- Harbor cruises
- Children's Museum of New Hampshire (nearby in Dover)
- Waterfront dining
- Local candy and toy shops
Don't forget to stroll Market Square and enjoy an ice cream by the harbor.
2. York & Ogunquit, Maine
Drive Time: Approximately 1½ hours
Southern Maine offers beautiful beaches and classic New England charm.
Highlights
- York's Wild Kingdom Zoo & Amusement Park
- Short Sands Beach
- Long Sands Beach
- Ogunquit Beach
- Marginal Way Cliff Walk
- Perkins Cove
This trip combines beaches, wildlife, shopping, and scenic ocean views.
3. Canobie Lake Park – Salem, NH
Drive Time: About 45 minutes
A New England favorite for more than 100 years, Canobie Lake Park has something for every age.
Enjoy
- Roller coasters
- Water rides
- Kiddie attractions
- Live entertainment
- Arcade games
- Classic amusement park treats
Perfect for thrill seekers and younger children alike.
4. Cape Ann: Gloucester & Rockport
Drive Time: 30–45 minutes
Spend the day discovering one of New England's most scenic coastlines.
Things to Do
- Bearskin Neck
- Motif No. 1
- Halibut Point State Park
- Good Harbor Beach
- Wingaersheek Beach
- Whale watching cruises
- Fresh seafood restaurants
5. Boston
Drive Time: 45 minutes–1½ hours
Whether you've visited once or dozens of times, Boston always offers something new.
Family Attractions
- New England Aquarium
- Museum of Science
- Boston Children's Museum
- Swan Boats
- Freedom Trail
- Faneuil Hall Marketplace
- Duck Tours
Perfect for mixing learning with fun.
6. Story Land – Glen, New Hampshire
Drive Time: About 2 hours
Designed especially for younger children, Story Land brings beloved nursery rhymes and fairy tales to life.
Kids Love
- Cinderella's Castle
- Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood
- Antique Cars
- Water attractions
- Gentle rides
- Interactive play areas
Ideal for preschoolers and elementary-aged children.
7. Davis Farmland – Sterling, Massachusetts
Drive Time: About 1½ hours
One of New England's best destinations for animal lovers.
Enjoy
- Farm animals
- Splash pad
- Adventure play areas
- Hayrides
- Pony rides
- Seasonal events
A wonderful choice for families with younger children.
8. Wachusett Mountain
Drive Time: About 1½ hours
There's much more than skiing here!
Summer Activities
- Scenic SkyRide
- Hiking trails
- Mountain biking
- Summer festivals
- Food trucks
- Live music
The mountain views alone are worth the trip.
9. Mystic, Connecticut
Drive Time: About 2 hours
History, adventure, and marine life combine for an unforgettable family outing.
Don't Miss
- Mystic Aquarium
- Mystic Seaport Museum
- Historic downtown
- River cruises
- Unique shops
- Great seafood restaurants
A full day can easily be spent exploring this charming coastal town.
10. Plimoth Patuxet Museums – Plymouth, Massachusetts
Drive Time: About 2 hours
Step back in time and experience early American history through immersive exhibits and interactive demonstrations.
Explore
- Historic English Village
- Wampanoag Homesite
- Craft demonstrations
- Heritage Breeds Farm
- Plymouth Waterfront
- Plymouth Rock
- Local ice cream shops and seafood restaurants
It's an engaging destination where history truly comes alive.
Tips for Planning Your Day Trip
✔ Pack plenty of water and snacks.
✔ Bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes.
✔ Purchase attraction tickets online when possible.
✔ Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
✔ Pack swimsuits and towels if beaches or splash areas are on your itinerary.
✔ Keep a blanket and a change of clothes in the car—you never know where the day will take you!
Make This Summer One to Remember
Some of the best family memories are made just a short drive from home. Whether your family loves beaches, animals, amusement parks, museums, mountains, or exploring charming New England towns, these destinations offer something for everyone.
So choose a destination, pack the car, and start exploring! Your next family adventure is waiting just around the corner.
