All across Massachusetts you can find incredible natural and historical sites. Over 100 of these are protected by the Trustees of Reservations, a non-profit that has worked for more than a century to preserve these significant locations. From architectural gems to outdoor havens, you’ll find many of Massachusetts’ most valued places under the care of the Trustees.
Better yet, many of these sites are easily accessible on a train ride from Boston. At Keolis massAdventures, we specialize in Fun Day Trips from Boston that make use of the Commuter Rail system for easy and eco-friendly adventures, whether you’re a visitor or a local.
We’re proud to collaborate with the Trustees to make their properties more accessible to everyone. Ready to start exploring the best of Massachusetts? Then read our blog on the Boston day trips to the Trustees’ properties that you can experience with us.
Explore Crane Estate
Spanning 2,100 acres, Crane Estate offers a medley of beaches, gardens, and country homes. Whether you’re interested in history or in an outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone here!
On our Guided Tour of Castle Hill at Crane Estate, you can enjoy a train ride from Boston’s North Station that will take you on a journey back in time. At Castle Hill, go on a guided tour of the grand home where the Crane family spent their first summer in 1929. Then, take a stroll in the perfectly manicured gardens overlooking the sea.
If you want something a bit closer to nature, you can Kayak Castle Neck River at Crane Estate during our other day tour from Boston. Paddle down the waters of the Great Marsh and look out for birds such as egrets and herons. In the summer, you can visit Crane Beach afterwards for some sun tanning or a quick dip.
Visit Appleton Farms
As one of the oldest continuously operating farms in the United States, visiting Appleton Farms is both a pastoral and historical experience. Having operated since 1638, this 1,000-acre farm is not just one of Massachusetts’ most important food producers, but a site of biodiversity. It’s been owned by the Trustees of Reservations since 1998.
On a day trip to Appleton Farms from Boston, you can enjoy culinary workshops, browse their farm stores for the freshest produce, or go horse riding or hiking on their expansive land. Keep an eye out for bobolinks, meadowlarks, deer, foxes, and even coyotes which all make their home here! In winter, you can also enjoy cross-country skiing.
DeCordova Sculpture Park Day Trip
For a bit of Art, you can’t go wrong with a DeCordova Sculpture Park & Museum Day Trip from Boston. This park displays over 60 magnificent sculptures across its 30-acre land. From giant top hats to interactive musical sculptures, DeCordova offers a feast for the senses. On our day trip, join a guided tour where you can learn more about each artwork and the artists behind them.
Visiting DeCordova Sculpture Park is one of our Best Ways to Spend a Sunny Day Near Boston. Get more ideas on our blog!
Halibut Point Reservation Self-Guided Tour
Jutting out between Ipswich Bay and Sandy Bay, Halibut Point Reservation is a coastal sanctuary. On a day trip here from Boston, you can enjoy independent rambles along the trails, picnic on the rocks overlooking the ocean, or spot sea creatures in tidal pools. The reservation is located next to the Halibut Point State Park, where you can also discover a visitor and museum which unpacks the granite industry in Cape Ann.
Barnyard Tour at Weir River Farm
Our Barnyard Adventures at Weir River Farm are perfect for families with kids and animal lovers. This farm is home to horses, cows, piglets, rabbits, and even llamas which you can meet and interact with. After encountering the animals, you can explore the 75-acre farm on one of their numerous trails or enjoy a picnic with your loved ones.
For more time outdoors, visit the nearby Whitney and Thayer Woods for walks among forests and open fields while admiring views of the Boston skyline.
If you’re looking for more Things to Do in Massachusetts with Kids, have a look at our blog!
Self-Guided World’s End Walk
While the name World’s End might sound ominous, this reservation is one of the most beautiful in Massachusetts. Located in Hingham, World’s End offers a tranquil respite from the city with its trails through meadows and woodlands. On our Self-Guided Nature Walk at World’s End, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along a 3.8-mile loop, soaking up scenic views of Boston Harbor or picnicking beneath the trees.
Discover More Outside Boston with Keolis massAdventures
These are just some of the incredible Trustees properties you can explore in Massachusetts, and the adventures don’t stop there! Thanks to the efficient Commuter Rail system, you don’t need a car to experience more of what this state has to offer. Find more Inspiration for Boston Day Trips through our blog, or contact us if you have any questions about our tours.
