Boston & Cape Cod

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The Perfect Summer Vacation for Families

There is something about the coast of New England that keeps me coming back year after year. From the rich history of Bo

ultimate 8 days around massachusetts cape

our Recommendations

  • If flying in, we recommend renting a car for the time on Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, use public transportation while in Boston and Salem

Cape Cod: 

  • Meals out can be expensive. Rent a vacation home with a kitchen to save money on breakfast and lunch
  • Allow extra time for driving, especially heading to Provincetown. Much of the way is 2-lane highway, and traffic can be heavy
  • If visiting the beach with children, choose the bay side for nicer beaches
Martha’s Vineyard:
  • Get your ferry tickets online, ahead of time, especially if traveling with a vehicle; parking for ferry can be tricky to find so arrive early
  • on the island, use the public buses; they are free and go all over 
  • It’s a long day for kids, be sure to plan activities for them
Boston:
  • Park your car and use public transportation while in the city; it is cheap and user friendly
  • Kids love Faneuil Hall for food
  • The Plaza Playscape is a great break for the kids
  • With kids, break up the Freedom Trail into 2-3 days. It is a lot of walking
  • Do not skip the Boston cream pies at the Omni Parker House
Salem:
  • Download for free, Salem historic walking tour
  • Tours sell out fast, book in advance
  • Visit in October for a truly magical experience
 
 
Tickets to Martha's Vineyard/Nantucket

Purchase your ferry tickets here in advance, especially if traveling with a vehicle.

Boston Tea Party Ships and Museums

The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum lets kids step right into history. With replica ships, live reenactments, and hands-on exhibits, families can even toss tea overboard while learning about the famous 1773 protest that helped spark the American Revolution;  an unforgettable, fun, and educational experience. My kids loved it!

Salem Trolley Tour

The Salem Trolley Tour is a fun and easy way to explore Salem’s rich history without wearing out little feet. The guided ride takes you past historic landmarks, haunted sites, and iconic spots from the infamous witch trials, all while sharing fascinating stories you won’t get on your own. It’s perfect for families, informative, engaging, and a great way to see the city at a relaxed pace. We all absolutely loved it.

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruise

This is a cruise I’ve gone on twice—and neither time disappointed. Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises offers an unforgettable, family-friendly experience with incredible whale sightings and knowledgeable guides.

Original Boston Cream Pie - Omni Parker House

The Boston Cream Pie might have been the highlight of my kids’ entire trip. There’s nothing like trying it at its birthplace, the historic Omni Parker House, where this iconic dessert was first created in the 1800s by the hotel’s pastry chef. Rich, classic, and absolutely worth the hype, this is one Boston experience you definitely don’t want to skip.

Planning a Boston/Cape Cod getaway? 👉 Click the link below to read our full guide and see exactly what to expect when visiting.

Are you Brave enough to Jump off the "Jaws" Bridge?

Locals agree that you can not say you have been to Martha’s Vineyard without taking a jump from the “Jaws” bridge. Could you do it? Watch video below to see what it’s like.

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