Looking for ideas when we drive son to airport

Question

Our son is flying roundtrip out of Boston in the beginning of June and the end of June. It's about a 6 hour drive from our house. We are looking for things to do within a 2-3 day stay each time when we drive him and pick him up. We visited Boston last summer and did the whole downtown Boston experience so we don't want to stay there again. We also took a ferry to Peddocks Island. We are looking for a less expensive than downtown (maybe in the $200/night range) and a more relaxed setting. Both times are during the week so no weekends involved. We do need it to be easy enough to get to the airport for a late night flight out. Is this possible? Any places you'd recommend for us to see? We visited Plymouth a few years ago when my son was being treated at Boston Children's and loved it! Trying to make a trip out of it.

Thank you!

Answer

It sounds like you’re planning a wonderful trip to Boston, and I can definitely help you with ideas for a more relaxed, less expensive stay while making the most of your time outside of the downtown area. Since you’ve already explored Boston itself, here are some alternative destinations that are within driving distance and offer a more laid-back vibe, with options that are easy to get to from the airport for your son’s late-night flights.

1. Cape Cod – Cape Cod is an excellent choice for a peaceful and scenic stay. It’s about an hour to an hour and a half from Boston Logan Airport, making it a convenient option for your late-night flight departures. There are plenty of charming towns on the Cape that fit within your budget, such as Hyannis or Falmouth, which offer beautiful beaches, lovely waterfront restaurants, and walking trails. You could visit the Cape Cod National Seashore, take a scenic drive along Route 6A, or explore the picturesque towns of Chatham or Orleans. Hyannis also has a nice selection of accommodations in your price range. Plus, there are several lovely inns and B&Bs if you prefer a quieter, more intimate stay.

2. The North Shore (Salem and Rockport) – The North Shore is another great area to explore, just a short drive from Boston. Salem, famous for its witch trials history, is an interesting and historical spot with fun attractions like the Salem Witch Museum and Peabody Essex Museum. It's a vibrant but more relaxed alternative to downtown Boston. Another great option is Rockport, a lovely seaside town with picturesque beaches, art galleries, and cute shops. The cost of accommodations here is typically more affordable than downtown Boston, and you’ll be able to enjoy a slower pace with a gorgeous coastal view. Both Salem and Rockport are within easy driving distance to Boston Logan for late-night flights.

3. The South Shore (Cohasset, Hingham, and Scituate) – The South Shore is a hidden gem with quiet beaches, scenic harbors, and charming small towns. If you’re looking for a relaxing and affordable getaway, the towns of Cohasset, Hingham, and Scituate are lovely options. Cohasset has a historic downtown area and beautiful beaches, while Scituate offers a quaint harbor and more laid-back coastal charm. Hingham is home to World’s End State Park, which offers peaceful walking trails with stunning views of the harbor. These towns are all within 30-45 minutes of Boston Logan Airport, so they offer a perfect balance of relaxation and convenience for late-night airport trips.

4. Newburyport – If you’re looking for a smaller, quieter coastal town with charm, Newburyport could be a great option. Located about an hour north of Boston, Newburyport offers a beautiful waterfront, quaint shops, and great restaurants. You can explore the historic downtown, walk along the Merrimack River, or take a boat tour. The town has several mid-range hotels and inns that will fit your budget, and it’s an easy drive to the airport for your late-night flight. It’s also a great place to visit if you want to explore Plum Island for nature walks and bird watching.

5. Plymouth – Since you mentioned you loved Plymouth, why not consider revisiting it? It’s an easy drive from Boston, about 45 minutes to an hour, and offers a charming atmosphere with a rich history. You can visit Plymouth Rock, explore the Plimoth Patuxet Museums (formerly Plimoth Plantation), or stroll around the waterfront. Plymouth also has some nice dining options, particularly seafood, and there are several affordable inns and B&Bs that are more affordable than staying in downtown Boston. Plus, it’s not far from the airport, making it a convenient location for late-night flights.

Suggestions for Things to Do in the Area:

Explore Coastal Towns: Whether you choose Cape Cod, Rockport, or Newburyport, be sure to take time to stroll through the charming shops, visit art galleries, and enjoy some waterfront dining.
Outdoor Activities: If you enjoy nature, check out hiking trails at World’s End (Hingham), Scituate Lighthouse, or the Cape Cod National Seashore. All are perfect for relaxing walks and enjoying the scenery.
Historic Sites: Explore Plymouth’s historic sites or Salem’s witch trials museums, which offer an interesting and informative glimpse into Massachusetts history.
Beach Time: Take a trip to any of the many nearby beaches—whether it’s Cape Cod, Cohasset, or Plum Island—for a relaxing day by the water.

Summary: All of these towns provide a more relaxed and affordable alternative to downtown Boston, with the added bonus of being close to Boston Logan Airport for your son's late-night flights. Whether you opt for a coastal retreat in Cape Cod, a charming escape in Rockport or Newburyport, or a historic visit to Plymouth or Salem, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the area.

Looking for ideas when we drive son to airport

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