Boston, Massachusetts — Several affordable road trips within a day’s drive of Boston offer spring break escapes for students attending the city’s many universities.
With major campuses including Boston University, Northeastern University and Boston College drawing thousands of students each year, nearby destinations across New England provide travel opportunities that often require little more than a few hours on the road, according to regional tourism agencies.
One of the most popular drives heads north to Acadia National Park in Maine, where visitors explore rocky Atlantic coastline, forested hiking trails and panoramic views from Cadillac Mountain. The park is one of the most visited national parks in the Northeast.
Closer to the city, Cape Cod National Seashore offers miles of sandy beaches, dunes and cycling trails. The coastal region is a frequent getaway for students looking to spend time along the Atlantic without traveling far from Boston.
Students also commonly visit the White Mountains of New Hampshire, where scenic routes like the Kancamagus Highway pass waterfalls, mountain overlooks and trailheads throughout the White Mountain National Forest.
Another nearby destination is Portland, Maine, a historic harbor city known for waterfront parks, lighthouses and walkable streets lined with restaurants and shops along Casco Bay.
Travelers looking for a city experience often head south to New York City, about four hours away, where visitors explore Central Park, museums and neighborhoods throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn.
Boston’s location along the Northeast corridor places beaches, mountains and historic cities within reach of a manageable road trip.
For younger travelers and college students balancing tight budgets, these destinations offer opportunities to explore New England while staying within driving distance of campus.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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