Day Trip Boston to ?

Question

Hello, we have a last minute trip to Boston March 22-28 and super disappointed the ferry to Provincetown is unavailable. Staying in a North End Airbnb. Considering renting a car for the day to go see a nearby Coastal town with little shops and New England architecture for the flavor.

1. where should we rent a car

2. where should we go (my daughter struggles to get up super early)

TY!

Answer

It sounds like you're looking for a relaxed day trip from Boston to explore the New England coastal charm. No worries—there are plenty of beautiful spots nearby that offer scenic views, quaint shops, and classic New England architecture. Here’s what I recommend for your trip:

1. Where to rent a car:

Enterprise, Hertz, or Avis: All of these car rental companies have locations in or around Boston, including at Logan Airport or in the city. Since you're staying in the North End, there are also several rental locations near downtown, such as on High Street or Atlantic Avenue.
Turo: If you’re looking for a more personal experience, you could use Turo, which lets you rent someone’s car directly. It’s a good option if you want a more convenient pick-up location.
Zipcar: For a more flexible, hourly rental, Zipcar is a good choice, especially if you don’t want to commit to a full-day rental. You can pick up a Zipcar at a variety of locations around Boston.

2. Where to go (with a late start in mind):

Salem: About a 30-minute drive from Boston, Salem is known for its rich history, New England architecture, and charming streets. It's also famous for the Salem Witch Trials, so you can explore historical sites like the Salem Witch Museum, the House of the Seven Gables, and the lovely waterfront. Salem is a relaxing spot to visit, with lots of little shops and cafes. If you're starting later in the day, Salem is perfect because it’s close enough to get to without a very early start, and you can spend a leisurely time strolling around.
Rockport: Located about 45 minutes north of Boston, Rockport is a picturesque coastal town with a quaint downtown area full of art galleries, shops, and cafes. The New England architecture is classic, and the town is known for its charming seaside feel. If you enjoy being near the water and exploring quiet streets, this is a great option.
Newburyport: Just under an hour’s drive from Boston, Newburyport is another scenic coastal town with historic buildings, great shopping, and waterfront views. You’ll find plenty of charming boutiques and delicious seafood restaurants along the Merrimack River. It has a relaxed vibe, so it’s perfect for a leisurely visit.
Gloucester: This is a little further, about 45 minutes to an hour, but it’s one of the oldest seaports in America. Gloucester has a working fishing harbor, beautiful beaches, and a variety of small shops. The architecture here is classic New England, and you can spend time at spots like the Cape Ann Museum or taking a stroll through the harbor area. It’s less touristy than Rockport but just as charming.

Since your daughter has trouble getting up early, all of these towns are close enough to Boston to allow for a later start and still give you plenty of time to enjoy the day. I'd recommend leaving around 10 or 11 a.m. to avoid early morning rush and still make it in time for a relaxing afternoon exploring these charming coastal towns.

Enjoy your trip and have fun exploring the beautiful New England coast!