Attractions Nearby Martha's Vineyard, Day Trips and Excursions

(Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts - MA, USA)



Massachusetts lies on the far northeasterly side of the United States of America and has long been a haven for tourists. A multitude of attractions present themselves to those holidaying at Martha's Vineyard and looking for a day trip.

One of North America's most appealing cities, Boston has many unique attributes and attractions. At just 92 miles / 148 km to the north of Martha's Vineyard, an excursion to Boston is an absolute must. Massachusetts attractions even closer to Martha's Vineyard include those within Cape Cod, Concord, Lexington, Nantucket, Plymouth and Salem, the latter of which is known all over the world for its strong associations with witchcraft.


Boston

In the past decade, Boston has invested literally millions of dollars improving its appearance (the Big Dig), by moving the most prominent roads underneath the ground and replacing them with landscaped parks and gardens. There are so many attractions in Boston that it would be impossible to see the best in a day or two, although if your time is limited, take a stroll along the Freedom Trail, which passes sights such as the Bunker Hill Monument, Faneuil Hall, the Paul Revere House, Quincy Market, the State House and also the USS Constitution. Families in particular will likely enjoy Duck Tour cruises of the harborfront, and an afternoon at the New England Aquarium or the Franklin Park Zoo.

Cape Cod

Located a mere 32 miles / 51 km to the northeast of Martha's Vineyard, the Cape Cod peninsula is also close to the island of Nantucket and is amongst the most popular tourist destinations in Massachusetts. Inexpensive bed and breakfast accommodation is widespread around Cape Cod's small towns and villages, which are grouped into 'Lower', 'Mid' and 'Upper' Cape areas. Popular attractions within Cape Cod include the beaches of Bourne, Falmouth and Provincetown, the cliffs of Truro, the villages of Yarmouth, the shops at Orleans and Sandwich, and the harborfront of Wellfleet.

Concord

During the 19th century, Concord was something of a literary community, with related attractions including the Old Manse - the former residence of acclaimed author Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804 to 1864), and the house of poet and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803 to 1882). Also of interest to many keen readers is the Orchard House of Louisa May Alcott (1832 to 1888), and the Wayside House, where the famous novel 'Little Women' was set.

Lexington

The colonial town of Lexington is just 15 miles / 24 km northwest of Boston and around 103 miles / 166 km to the north of Martha's Vineyard. Lexington is a town of great historical significance, since it was here in 1775 where the very first battle of the famous Revolutionary War took place. Attractions in Lexington are generally related to its war heritage and rich history, such as the Battle Green, the Lexington Historical Society, the Minute Man National Historical Park, the National Heritage Museum, and the Old Burying Ground.

Central Massachusetts

Central Massachusetts comprises a series of different attractions, with this region often being referred to as the Pioneer Valley, since it was here where settlers arrived in the early 17th century and slowly began moving up the Connecticut River. Highlights include the recreations of 1830s New England houses at the Old Sturbridge Village, the noteworthy museums at Springfield, the colleges of Amherst, and the sophisticated town of Northampton, where trendy eateries and shops are in good supply. The annual Northampton Independent Film Festival (NIFF) each fall is also a major draw card here.

Nantucket

Just over 30 miles / 48 km to the south of the scenic Cape Cod coast and roughly 36 miles / 58 km east of Martha's Vineyard, the pretty island of Nantucket is made up of a mixture of blueberry fields, marshy moors and beautiful beaches. There are also a selection of charming old buildings to be found on the island, being overseen by the Nantucket Historical Association. Look out for the Whaling Museum and the Jethro Coffin House, while other attractions include the Jetties Beach, Madaket Beach and Surfside Beach.

Plymouth

In 1620, the famous ship known as the Mayflower said sail from Plymouth, England (UK), en route to New York. However, the Mayflower was blown rather off-course and instead arrived on the coastline of Cape Cod. It was not long until the pilgrims reached Plymouth and it was here where they decided to settle. The wealth of history and an impressive replica of the Mayflower (the Mayflower II) are amongst the main attractions in Plymouth, together with the friendly community Pilgrim Hall Museum, the Harlow Old Fort House Museum, the Plymouth Antiquarian Society and the harborfront. Plymouth is sited around 49 miles / 79 km north of Martha's Vineyard and next to the Myles Standish State Forest.

Salem

Most famous for its strong association with witches, Salem has led a very interesting history and even executed 19 people during the late 17th century for their supposed witchcraft crimes. Aside from the plentiful witch-related attractions and witch trails, Salem's Maritime National Historic Site provides something different to see, as does the replica Friendship boat, the Peabody Essex Museum, the New England Pirate Museum, and also the impressive Victorian and Greek-Revival architecture. Salem is to be found 120 miles / 193 km north of Martha's Vineyard and is always a popular excursion, particularly around Halloween.