What are the best day trips from Boston using the Commuter Rail?

Salem, known for its witch trials history, and Concord, famous for its Revolutionary War and literary sites, are two of the best and easiest day trips. Both are about a 30-40 minute ride from North Station.

Can I get to the beach from Boston on the Commuter Rail?

Yes, the Newburyport/Rockport line takes you directly to beautiful beaches like Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea and Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester. It's a perfect way to have a beach day without a car.

How much is a round-trip ticket on the Commuter Rail for a day trip?

The MBTA offers a $10 Weekend Pass which gives you unlimited travel on all Commuter Rail lines from Saturday morning through Sunday evening. It's one of the best deals for exploring the areas around Boston.

5 Best Day Trips from Boston by Commuter Rail

Discover the best of New England with these easy, car-free escapes from North and South Station.

Published March 11, 2026 · Updated March 11, 2026 · 6 min read

Boston's MBTA Commuter Rail network makes it incredibly easy to explore New England without a car. From historic witch trials to scenic coastal villages, some of the region's most iconic destinations are just a train ride away. This guide covers the 5 best day trips you can take from Boston by train.

1. Salem, MA — Witch Trials & Maritime History (30 min)

Take the train from North Station to Salem for a deep dive into American history. While famous for the 1692 Witch Trials (and the excellent Peabody Essex Museum), Salem also has a rich maritime history. The Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a great place to explore. It's a must-do trip, especially in October.

2. Providence, RI — Arts, Food & History (1 hr)

Just an hour from South Station, Providence offers a fantastic urban escape. The city has a thriving arts scene (RISD Museum), a renowned food scene (Federal Hill), and beautiful historic architecture (Benefit Street). Don't miss WaterFire, a series of bonfires that blaze on the rivers in downtown Providence.

3. Rockport, MA — Artists Colony & Coastal Views (1 hr)

For classic New England coastal scenery, take the train from North Station to Rockport. This charming town on Cape Ann is a longtime artists colony, famous for the iconic red fishing shack known as Motif No. 1. Walk the jetty, browse the art galleries on Bearskin Neck, and enjoy a lobster roll with a view.

4. Concord, MA — Revolutionary & Literary History (40 min)

From North Station, take the train to Concord, the site of the first battle of the American Revolution and the home of literary giants like Thoreau and Emerson. Visit the Minute Man National Historical Park, see the Old North Bridge, and take a walk around Walden Pond. It's a trip packed with history and natural beauty.

5. Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA — Singing Beach & Upscale Charm (50 min)

For one of the best beaches accessible by train, head to Manchester-by-the-Sea from North Station. Singing Beach (named for the sound the sand makes) is a beautiful, wide crescent of sand just a short walk from the station. The town itself is a charming and upscale New England village perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best day trips from Boston using the Commuter Rail?: Salem, known for its witch trials history, and Concord, famous for its Revolutionary War and literary sites, are two of the best and easiest day trips. Both are about a 30-40 minute ride from North Station.
Can I get to the beach from Boston on the Commuter Rail?: Yes, the Newburyport/Rockport line takes you directly to beautiful beaches like Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea and Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester. It's a perfect way to have a beach day without a car.
How much is a round-trip ticket on the Commuter Rail for a day trip?: The MBTA offers a $10 Weekend Pass which gives you unlimited travel on all Commuter Rail lines from Saturday morning through Sunday evening. It's one of the best deals for exploring the areas around Boston.