The image shows numerous boats floating on a body of water near a cityscape with various buildings and structures visible in the background, ending the sentence.

Day Trip Ideas to the Boston Harbor Islands

Published on July 25, 2022

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ISLAND LIFE IS CALLING

Experience a New England day on the water, gliding through the harbor to Boston’s hidden gems, the Boston Harbor Islands. Take a short ferry to unlock a true oasis when city meets island life.

A lighthouse on a rocky island with adjacent small buildings and a cloudy sky in the background sits surrounded by water.

LITTLE BREWSTER ISLAND

A NEW ENGLAND MUST SEE

Have you heard of Boston Light? Take a day trip to Little Brewster Island to find Boston Light, a lighthouse casting 27 miles into New England waters. Known for being one of the oldest lighthouses continuously used in the U.S, Boston Light is truly one of a kind. Set sail on a Boston Harbor Lighthouse Cruise discovering the 7 acre island with the National Park Service and U.S Coast Guard staff for a history lesson from experts themselves. If you’re looking to see painted colors dance across the sky, venture on the Boston Lighthouse Sunset Cruise around the island. Little Brewster Island is perfect for an escape from the urban city!

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A picnic table sits on a grassy area near a body of water, with city buildings visible in the distance under a clear blue sky.

RELAX. REST, RECHARGE

Spectacle Island

Are you seeking peace and quiet from the bustling city? Spectacle Island might be your next weekend activity. Discover 114 acres of walking, biking, and hiking trails along scenic overlooks on the island. A surreal nature getaway, perfect for relaxation and taking a dip in the fresh New England waters.

Located near the visitor center, find an abundance of public park space to sit and feel the ocean breeze. Grab a quick bite as the sun meets the Atlantic and enjoy refreshing beverages from Brato on Spectacle Island Brewhouse + Kitchen. The award-winning Boston-based brewpub partners with local farms and markets. Brato strives to be as sustainable as possible by locally sourcing its meats, dairy, and produce to create the ultimate tasteful dish.

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The image depicts a stone fortification with a wooden bridge over a moat, surrounded by a grassy area and some rubble.

TAKE A DIVE INTO HISTORY

Georges Island

Calling all historic lovers to Georges Island! Go back in time to the Civil Right War era to explore 53 acres including Fort Warren and a former training facility for Union soldiers. Fort Warren is the islands main attraction bringing many to explore the fort’s bakery, Dark Tunnel, and parade ground. Use the island’s “Pick Your Path: Escape the Fort Guide” to go on a Georges Island adventure following the footsteps of an imprisoned soldier who escaped in 1863. Just 7 miles from the city skyline to the island, a quick ferry ride is the perfect day trip activity.

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