Travel
5 Last-Minute Summer Trips Near Plymouth
Big summer fun doesn't have to mean big travel — these low-stress ideas are perfect for a spontaneous weekend.

Summer is here, and while there’s plenty to do right in Plymouth, sometimes a quick change of scenery is just what you need. Fortunately, we’re just a short drive from a variety of fun and affordable destinations perfect for a last-minute escape. Whether you're looking to explore somewhere new or just enjoy a quick weekend away, these five easy summer trips come together without the stress — or the price tag — of major travel plans.
Please note: Drive times are approximate and meant to give a general sense of distance. Actual travel time may vary depending on your exact starting point, destination and traffic conditions.
1. Newport, Rhode Island (1 hr 15 min)
Walk the stunning Cliff Walk for ocean views and mansion sightings, then tour Gilded Age estates like The Breakers or Marble House. Downtown offers harborfront dining, charming shops and historic cobblestone streets.
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2. Rockport, Massachusetts (1 hr 35 min)
This coastal art colony is packed with galleries, sea views and lobster shacks. Stroll Bearskin Neck for handmade goods or relax at Front Beach with an ice cream cone in hand.
3. Providence, Rhode Island (1 hr)
Catch a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or explore quirky shops and eateries on Thayer Street. If the timing’s right, WaterFire lights up the rivers downtown with floating bonfires and music.
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4. Concord, Massachusetts (1 hr 15 min)
Dive into Revolutionary War history at Minute Man National Historical Park, then visit Walden Pond to see where Thoreau lived and wrote. The quaint downtown is perfect for a bookshop or café break.
5. Falmouth, Massachusetts (45 min)
Bike along the Shining Sea Bikeway or hop a ferry to Martha’s Vineyard for a day trip. The town itself has great beaches, seafood spots and a lively summer vibe.
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