Budget Friendly Day Trips Near Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Written by Denise J. Dubé 

These days stretching a dollar is an art form. Why not take a day trip that won’t break the bank? We’ll start in Massachusetts in Gloucester and Rockport and then head to Newport and Portsmouth, Rhode Island. All these destinations are a mere tank of gas (or less) away.

More than a Fisherman

Gloucester Harbor Walk

(978) 283-1979

Why Go? According to official documents and Gloucester native, Monica Steele, this is home to America’s original seaport and the oldest working art colony in North America. Download the audio tour from online and enjoy a self-guided 2.5 mile tour – or less if you prefer – along the Harbor Loop. You’ll pass the statue of the Gloucester Fisherman and learn the nautical past that made this historic seaport so popular.

Insider Tip: The Rocky Neck Art Colony’s Art’s Colony is holding an Arts and Crafts Festival from Nov. 30 to Dec. 31, at its center on Wonson Street.

Must Go: Dogtown Village, divided between Rockport and Gloucester, is an abandoned colonial settlement. There are also trails, quarries and lighthouses dating back to the mid-1700s and other free places nearby that are worth seeing. Park the car and explore. Depending on the season, sit on the beach, either wrapped in a blanket or face upward toward the summer sun.

The Fine Print: Park in publicly marked areas and don’t use those resident sticker spots.

Rockport Center

Why Go? See that iconic and well-photographed red fishing shack on Bearskin Neck. Who in Massachusetts does not have at least three pictures of that inspirational wooden shed, now called The Motif. The town, east of Gloucester, is surrounded on three sides by rocks and the Atlantic Ocean.  

Insider Tip: Holiday Fairs start on Nov. 16 and continue until December.  

Must Do: Enjoy the sea air and the rock waterfront and soak in that 1970s vibe. This town is a backdrop for more than a few movies and even feels like a movie set. Although little more than 6,000 people live here, in spring, summer and early fall, it’s usually so crowded you’ll think it's New York City -- 20 years ago.

The Fine Print: Walking along the ochre-laced rocks that surround the little peninsulas might be inviting, but it's not safe. 

Cliff Walk

Bellvuew Avenue,

Newport

Why Go? This is an innovative and unusual way to see those glorious mansions – from behind. This 3.5 mile walk was the nation’s first American National Recreational Trail. There are now about 65 around. More than 250,000 people take this walk every year. "You can begin and end at any point,” Rhode Island Tourism Communication Director Mark Brodeur said.  

Insider Tip: Many won’t feel like taking the entire 3.5-mile walk. No worries. Brodeur said public access is available wherever a side street meets the walkway. Take your time; it’s open from sunrise to sunset.

Must Go: This lengthy landmark is open and accessible all year. You’ll see almost all the 11 mansions with finely-pruned estates, all from behind. The elegance didn’t stop at the front. Porticos, balconies and stone majesty look out onto the Cliff Walk.

The Fine Print: There’s a portion that’s closed, thanks to Hurricane Sandy. It’s clearly marked and noted on the maps and along the walk.  

East Bay Bike Path

Providence, Rhode Island

Why Go? Hitch a bicycle rack to the car and head for India Point Park in Providence. There is a 14.5 paved bicycle path, once railroad tracks, that goes through historic colonial villages and towns, the business district and a few parks. With the exception of one large hill, the topography is pretty flat and easily navigated by anyone at any age. It runs from Providence to Bristol (or Bristol to Providence, if you prefer) and hugs the coast, offering landscape and ocean views. 

Insider Tip: The Washington Bridge portion of the bikeway is closed until the fall of 2014. Pack a picnic or hit one of the fast-food stops along the way.

Must Do: The trail weaves through quintessential New England neighborhoods and invites visitors into Rhode Island’s back yard.  

The Fine Print: The ride takes about two hours.