New York City often steals the spotlight when it comes to East Coast travel destinations. But just a few hours away lies another gem waiting to be explored: Boston. While a day trip to Boston from NYC might sound ambitious, it’s entirely doable and can offer a refreshing change of scenery. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll answer all your burning questions and provide you with everything you need to know for a memorable day trip to Boston.
If you’ve got a day left to fill in your travel itinerary, for example when you’re spending seven days or six days in New York, why not consider a day trip to Boston? This charming New England city with student-town vibes is sure to put a smile on your face.
Boston in a nutshell
Boston is the capital of Massachusetts, New England. Visiting Boston is like vising a history class in person, as it is the cradle of much of the United States’ history. It played a significant role in the American Revolution, for example featuring the Boston Tea Party (1773) and the Battle of Bunker Hill (1775). Most of its historic locations are located along a 2.5 mile walking-route called The Freedom Trail.
Did you know: A whopping 17% of Boston consists of green space. You are never more than half a mile from a park!
How to get from NYC to Boston
A day trip to Boston is definitely possible if you’re willing to get up early. There are various ways to get from NYC to Boston:
NYC to Boston by train
Taking the train from NYC to Boston is the fastest option, but also the most expensive. Amtrak offers several daily departures from New York’s Penn Station to Boston’s South Station:
- Northeast Regional: This service takes about 4.5 hours. Tickets cost around $124 round-trip.
- Acela (Premium): This express service takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes. Tickets start at $214 round-trip.
Amtrak offers several options to get from NYC to Boston (picture: Media.amtrak.com)
NYC to Boston by bus
For budget-conscious travelers, I recommend taking a bus. Several bus companies operate frequent services between the two cities, with departure points scattered throughout Manhattan.
FlixBus: We chose FlixBus on our trip and even though it is a budget-option, we were very pleased. Make sure to be there well on time, as the driver typically won’t wait for long (if at all). The buses are comfortable with plenty of leg space and offer free Wi-Fi, USB-charging ports and restrooms.
FlixBus leaves from 31st Street and 8th Avenue, situated across Madison Square Garden. The journey takes approximately 4.5 hours, ending at Boston’s South Station Bus Terminal. Round-trip tickets cost around $60.
The FlixBus station at 8th Avenue, right across Madison Square Garden.
Greyhound (FlixBus): Greyhound buses depart from the New York Port Authority and George Washington Bridge bus stations. It takes around 4.5 hours to reach South Station in Boston. A round-trip ticket costs about $45.
Peter Pan: Peter Pan runs buses from New York’s Port Authority. They’ll drop you off at interesting spots in Boston like Copley Square and the State House. It takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes to get to Boston and tickets cost roughly $40 for a round-trip.
Megabus: Finally, Megabus offers numerous daily services between NYC and Boston. Seats go fast, so snag yours quick! The ride from New York to Boston takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes. Catch the bus at 34th Street in Manhattan, dropping you at Boston’s South Station Bus Terminal. Round-trip tickets cost roughly $30 – $40.
NYC to Boston by car
If you prefer the flexibility of driving, hitting the road from NYC to Boston is also an option. The journey takes approximately 3,5 to 4,5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Visiting Boston by car offers the most flexibility in your schedule.
Day trip to Boston from NYC itinerary
Now that you’ve arrived in Boston, it’s time to make the most of your day. This itinerary will help you navigate the city’s top attractions within +/- 8 hours.
Morning: Freedom Trail
Start your day by immersing yourself in Boston’s rich history with a walk along the Freedom Trail. This 2.5-mile-long route takes you past 16 historically significant sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church. It takes around 2-3 hours to complete the trail.
How to follow the Freedom Trail? Easy! There’s a red brick line that you can follow along all of its historic points of interest.
The route of the Freedom Trail (map: Thefreedomtrail.org)
Lunch: Quincy Market
After working up an appetite, head to Quincy Market for lunch. This bustling marketplace offers a plethora of dining options, from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Be sure to try a classic New England clam chowder or lobster roll for a true taste of the region.
Afternoon
After finishing your lunch, it’s all up to you what to visit next. What kind of activities do you like most? There are many great options to spend the rest of the afternoon in Boston:
- Harbor Sailing Cruise: Go on a sailing cruise through Boston’s iconic harbor on a schooner. Enjoy views of the city’s skyline from the water, while the experienced crew takes care of your needs.
- Old Town Trolley Tour (hop-on, hop-off): Sit back and relax on a narrated Old Town trolley tour through Boston’s historic neighborhoods, hopping off at attractions like the Boston Common, Beacon Hill, and Fenway Park to explore at your own pace.
- Bunker Hill Monument: History buffs can climb to the top of this towering monument commemorating the first major battle of the American Revolution, offering sweeping views of the city and harbor.
- New England Aquarium: Dive into an underwater world at the New England Aquarium, home to thousands of aquatic animals including playful penguins, majestic sea turtles, and mesmerizing jellyfish.
- USS Constitution: Step aboard “Old Ironsides,” the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat, and explore the storied decks of this legendary ship docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard.
- Boston Observatory: Admire Boston from atop the Prudential Tower. The Boston Observatory offers 360-degree indoor and open-air decks and a spectacular view of the city.
- The Boston Common: The United States’ first public park. It was founded in 1634. Right next to this park, you’ll find the Boston Public Garden, the United States’ first botanic garden (1837).
- Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is known as Boston’s most beautiful neighborhood, known for its charming narrow cobblestone streets, Federal-style row houses and gas lit street lamps.
- Fenway Park: Sports fans will want to make a pilgrimage to this classic baseball stadium, home to the Boston Red Sox. Built in 1912, it’s the oldest Major League Baseball Stadium still in use today.
Evening
As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll along Boston’s picturesque waterfront. Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and soak in the ambiance for the final time before heading back to New York.
Organized Boston tours from New York
If planning your own day trip still seems daunting, consider joining an organized tour from New York to Boston. Many tour companies offer comprehensive packages that include transportation, guided sightseeing, and free time to explore independently. Just sit back and let others plan a nice visit for you!
FAQ – Day trip to Boston from NYC
How far is Boston from New York City?
Boston is approximately 215 miles northeast of New York City, making it a suitable candidate for a day trip if you’re in for a taste of New England charm.
Can you day trip to Boston from New York?
Sure! By getting on the train, bus or car in New York around 6 AM, you should arrive in Boston between 10 and 11 AM. This gives you enough time to experience its highlights and get a feel for its unique atmosphere.
Is Boston worth visiting from NYC?
If you’ve got plenty of days during your visit to NYC, absolutely. Boston boasts a rich history (related to the American Revolution), beautiful architecture, multiple great museums and – last but not least – delicious cuisine.
What’s the best way to get from NYC to Boston?
The best option depends on your preferences. By train is the fastest, by bus the cheapest and by car the most flexible.
How much is a train ride from New York to Boston?
You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for a one-way ticket from NYC to Boston, varying for a variety of reasons (like how early in advance you’re booking and which day you’re travelling).
How long does a train ride from New York to Boston take?
The journey by train typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, making it a relatively quick way to travel between the two cities.
How much is a bus ride from New York to Boston?
Bus fares start around $30 for a one-way ticket, making it the cheapest choice for tourists without a rental car (which will be most, coming from New York City).
How long does a bus ride from New York to Boston take?
While bus travel may take slightly longer than traveling by train or car, you can still expect to reach Boston within 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
