Affordable Weekend Trips for College Students in Boston

Weekend trips for Boston college students

One of the best parts of being a student at New England College of Optometry (NECO) isn’t just the world-class education—it’s also the unbeatable location. As a Boston college student, you enjoy a vibrant city full of history, culture, and opportunity. But when you need a break from classes, clinic, and city life, there’s good news: you don’t have to go far—or spend much—to enjoy an affordable weekend trip. Destinations like New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Maine make for fun memories and fast road trips.

Side view of a Food truck in a Boston public park with people in line by during summer day

Make the most of each semester

Whether you’re looking to recharge in nature, explore a new city each semester, or get out of Boston and see another part of New England, there are many budget-friendly weekend trip ideas perfect for NECO students. Taking the Amtrak train, renting a zipcar, or booking a cheap and quick flight are all ways anyone attending colleges in Boston can get away.

Boston is the gateway to so much more than city life. As a NECO student, you’re in the perfect spot to explore beaches, forests, small towns, and neighboring cities—all within a few hours and without breaking the bank.

Traditional brick buildings with shops and restaurants on the ground level along a street on a sunny autumn morning. Montpelier, VT, USA.

International adventure?

It’s true. You can book a cheap and quick flight from Boston to Toronto, and all in one weekend. With Toronto only a one hour and 45 minute flight, accessing Canada is just as easy as getting to New York. Grab your passport to explore Ontario and build those friendships in optometry school while your schedule allows. You’ll come back with great memories—and maybe a little more appreciation for being NECO students and why Boston is such a special place to live and study.

1. Cape Cod (via Ferry or Bus): Massachusetts

Travel time: 1.5–2 hours
Why go: Sun, sand, seafood, and seaside charm.
Highlights: Relax on the beaches of Falmouth or Hyannis, visit lighthouses, rent a bike along the Cape Cod Rail Trail, or grab a lobster roll by the harbor.
How to save: Take a Peter Pan Bus or catch the seasonal ferry from Boston to Provincetown for a scenic, car-free escape.

2. Salem, Massachusetts

Travel time: 45 minutes by train
Why go: History, mystery, and Halloween vibes all year round.
Highlights: Tour the Salem Witch Museum, explore historic homes, and stroll the waterfront shops and cafés.
How to save: Take the MBTA Commuter Rail from North Station with a student CharlieCard for discounted fares.

3. Portland, Maine

Travel time: 2 hours by bus or train
Why go: A charming coastal city known for food, art, and walkable neighborhoods.
Highlights: Sample local coffee shops, explore the Old Port, or visit the Portland Head Light for ocean views.
How to save: Book a ticket with Concord Coach or Amtrak early for the best rates—sometimes as low as $25 round-trip.

Portland Head Light is in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. It is in the Fort Williams Park and is the oldest lighthouse in Maine.

4. Providence, Rhode Island

Travel time: 1 hour by train
Why go: Artsy, affordable, and full of surprises.
Highlights: Visit the RISD Museum, enjoy WaterFire (a seasonal evening art installation), or walk along the riverfront parks.
How to save: Use your student ID for museum discounts and ride the MBTA or Amtrak for quick, low-cost travel.

5. White Mountains Region: New Hampshire

Travel time: 2–2.5 hours by car
Why go: Hiking, scenic drives, and nature at its finest.
Highlights: Spend the day exploring Franconia Notch State Park, take the aerial tramway at Cannon Mountain, or drive the breathtaking Kancamagus Highway.
How to save: Split a rental car with friends and pack your own food for a low-cost outdoor adventure.

Autumn fall colors on the shore line of Echo lake in the White mountains of New Hampshire

6. Newport, Rhode Island

Travel time: 1.5 hours by bus or car
Why go: Gilded Age mansions meet coastal relaxation.
Highlights: Tour the famous Breakers Mansion, stroll the Cliff Walk, or catch a sunset at Easton’s Beach.
How to save: Pack a picnic, skip the paid mansion tours, and enjoy free ocean views.

Sunset along the Mystic River in Mystic, Connecticut as reflections float above the still water.

Tips for NECO Students Traveling on a Budget:

Use your Student ID: Many transportation services, museums, and attractions offer student discounts.
Pack snacks and meals: Save on food by bringing your own or visiting local markets.
Travel with friends: Splitting transportation and accommodation costs makes trips more affordable and fun.
Plan ahead: The earlier you book, the more you save—especially on bus and train fares.