12 Cheap Weekend Getaways in Massachusetts

Posted on April 24, 2023 | Julie J. |

Massachusetts is a beautiful state with a wealth of destinations perfect for a weekend getaway. However, not all of these destinations need to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly options for those looking to explore Massachusetts without spending a fortune.

From quaint seaside towns to charming mountain retreats, there’s something for every taste and budget. Discover some of the best cheap weekend getaways in Massachusetts, so you can start planning your next adventure without breaking the bank!

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Pilgrim Inn, Lee

Average rate: $90 a night – Book here

Lee, Massachusetts is a picturesque New England town located in the heart of the Berkshires. With its charming historic buildings, stunning natural scenery, and abundance of cultural attractions, Lee is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural activities, or simply a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Lee has something to offer to anyone

If you’re planning a weekend getaway on a budget, book a room at the affordable Pilgrim Inn featuring clean and comfortable rooms, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and free parking. And, you’ll be within walking distance of stores and restaurants.

Close to town, you can enjoy the beach on Laurel Lake, hike part of the Appalachian Trail in October Mountain State Forest, and tour the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum. The nearby Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum is also worth checking out.

If you like hiking, you can visit Monument Mountain Reservation as well or the Mass Audubon’s Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary.

A bit further out, visit the Berkshire Botanical Garden in Stockbridge before stopping by the Norman Rockwell Museum featuring a large collection of Rockwell’s paintings, illustrations, and other artwork.

Victorian House B&B, Dorchester

Average rate: $170 a night – Book here

Dorchester is a historic neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts, with plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy. It makes a great base to explore the city on a budget during a weekend getaway. This Victorian House B&B offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.

You’ll be within a 5-minute walk to the subway, close to plenty of stores and restaurants, and not far from the beach. You can easily park in the street and guests can use the kitchen.

Boston is filled with interesting sights and things to do. Some of the must-sees include:

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, located on Columbia Point, showcases the life and legacy of President Kennedy through exhibits, multimedia displays, and artifacts.
Franklin Park: This 527-acre park is the largest park in the city of Boston and is a great place to go for a stroll, have a picnic, or go for a run. It also features a golf course, a zoo, and many other recreational facilities.
Boston Children’s Museum: if you’re visiting with kids don’t miss this fun museum with hands-on exhibits.
The Freedom Trail: a 2.5-mile walk through historic sites that tell the story of the American Revolution.
Boston Common: a large public park in the heart of the city. Take a stroll around the park and enjoy the scenery.
The North End: one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, known for its Italian heritage and delicious food.

In Dorchester, you can stop by the Dorchester Historical Society, before taking a walking tour of the neighborhood. Dorchester is home to many historic buildings and landmarks, including the oldest house in Boston, the James Blake House.

Travel tip: depending on what you want to visit, consider getting the Boston Explorer Pass to save money on entrance fees.

Colonial Inn Seekonk, Seekonk

Average rate: $90 to $140 a night – Book here

Seekonk is a charming town located in Bristol County, Massachusetts, just a short drive from Providence, Rhode Island. While it may be a small town, there are plenty of things to do and see in Seekonk, making it a great weekend getaway destination.

The Colonial Inn Seekonk is a nice and affordable place to stay when planning a weekend escape on a budget. The inn features free parking, a seasonal outdoor pool, and comfy rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

In town, you can check out what’s happening at the Seekonk Speedway, hosting weekly stock car racing events from May through September, as well as special events throughout the year.

If nature is more your thing, explore the Ten Mile River Greenway, a beautiful path offering miles of hiking opportunities, birdwatching, and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Or, spend some time at the beach – a 15-minute drive will take you to Barrington Beach.

You can also spend a day visiting Providence where you’ll find plenty of fun things to do for everyone. There you can take a free guided tour of the Rhode Island State House, tour one of the art exhibits at the RISD Museum, and walk around Benefit Street, lined with beautiful 18th and 19th-century homes.

If you’re visiting during summer, don’t miss WaterFire, a unique art installation that features over 80 bonfires lit on the surface of the Providence River.

Providence is also known for its amazing food scene, so why not take a food tour to sample some of the city’s best dishes?

Publick House Historic Inn and Country Motor Lodge, Sturbridge

Average rate: $140 a night – Book here

A charming town in central Massachusetts, Sturbridge is known for its rich history and beautiful natural scenery. The Publick House Historic Inn and Country Motor Lodge makes a perfect place to stay for a cheap weekend getaway.

You can either stay at the historic inn or at the lodge. Both feature clean and comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant.

Within walking distance, you can visit the Old Sturbridge Village. This open-air living history museum offers a glimpse into life in New England in the 19th century. Visitors can explore dozens of historic buildings, see costumed interpreters, and participate in hands-on activities.

Don’t miss strolling around the historic town center as well.

For outdoor activities, go hiking at Wells State Park which offers miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating on Walker Pond. Nearby, the Capen Hill Nature Sanctuary also offers plenty of hiking trails.

Brookside House, Quincy

Average rate: $100 a night – Book here

One of the best places to stay for a cheap weekend getaway in Massachusetts, the Brookside House is located just south of Boston in Quincy and offer comfortable rooms and good amenities at an affordable price. You can easily park on the street, there’s a kitchen that guests can use, and most rooms have a mini-fridge and coffee machine.

You can easily take a day trip to visit Boston, but you’ll also find many things to do closer to the hotel. In town, you can visit the Adams National Historical Park, walk the Quincy Riverwalk, explore the Quincy Quarry and Granite Workers Museum, or stroll on Wollaston Beach.

For some outdoor adventures, head to Wompatuck State Park where you’ll find paved biking trails, 40 miles of forest trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing, and picnic facilities. Closer to town, you can also hike the challenging 15-mile Blue Hills – Skyline Trail or the easier Blue Hills Skyline Loop, both are part of the Blue Hills Reservation.

Mulberry Bed & Breakfast, Wareham

Average rate: $115 a night – Book here

A great base to explore Cape Cod on a budget, Wareham, located in Plymouth County, is known for its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. The charming town offers plenty of fun things to do nearby to keep you busy over a weekend.

The Mulberry Bed & Breakfast is a cozy place to stay that won’t break the bank. There are only 3 rooms so it gives out a homey vibe, breakfast is included, and there’s a hot tub that guests can use. You can also spend some time relaxing in the garden.

In town, you can visit the Wareham Historical Society, showcasing the history of the town through exhibits and events, providing a glimpse into the town’s past.

Nearby, the picturesque Onset Beach offers a perfect place to relax and soak up the sun, swim, or take a stroll along the boardwalk.

You can also drive down to New Bedford to visit the Whaling Museum, Fort Rodman, and Neds Point Lighthouse – or, head to the Myles Standish State Forest offering miles of trails for hiking or biking.

A short drive will take you to Plymouth. There, you can tour the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, stroll around the town to see the historic buildings, or enjoy the beach.

Families can spend some time at the Edaville Family Theme Park. This amusement park features rides, attractions, and an old-fashioned train ride through the cranberry bogs.

Rustic Studio, Lanesborough

Average rate: $120 a night – Book here

This cozy rustic suite, set in an 18th-century Berkshire farmhouse, is conveniently located near Mount Greylock and Jiminy Peak, and offers all the comfort of home. It can sleep four and features a fully-equipped kitchen and a private bathroom.

Outside, enjoy exploring the sprawling 19-acre property featuring seasonal flower fields, thousands of berry bushes, fruit trees, a creek, and walking trails full of wildlife.

Nearby, you can visit Mount Greylock State Reservation offering hiking trails, camping, picnicking, and stunning views from the summit of Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts.

For more outdoor activities, explore Balance Rock State Park. This park features a unique geological formation, a large boulder precariously balanced on top of a ledge, as well as hiking trails and picnicking areas. Wahconah Falls State Park is also worth checking out with hikes to waterfalls.

The nearby Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is a family-friendly biking and hiking trail along an old train line, with cross-country skiing in winter.

Speaking of winter, a short drive will take you to Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort where you can ski, snowboard, ride the mountain coaster, and snowshoe.

In summer, enjoy kayaking and spending some time at the beach at Pontoosuc Lake.

You can also explore the Hancock Shaker Village, a historic site and living history museum that tells the story of the Shaker community that once inhabited the area. On your way there, you can stop by the Berkshire Museum offering natural-history and art exhibits.

Apartment Rental, Gill

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here

Known for its charming rural atmosphere and natural beauty, Gill is a great destination for a weekend getaway on a budget. You can book this convenient vacation rental with beautiful views from the private deck and enjoy all the comfort of home.

Nearby, take a little road trip to visit the area. Start by passing by the historic French King Bridge on your way to the Great Falls Discovery Center, before heading to Greenville.

There you can spend some time hiking in Rocky Mountain Park, make sure to stop by the Poet’s Seat Tower then head into town to tour the Museum of Our Industrial Heritage and the Historical Society-Greenfield.

There are also a couple of covered bridges and historic homes and landmarks you can visit in the area, such as the Eunice Williams Covered Bridge, the Arthur A. Smith Covered Bridge, or the Bridge of Flowers.

You can also go hiking at the High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary where you’ll find trails boarded with wildflowers and leading to stunning views of Deerfield River Valley and Mount Greylock.

A short drive will take you to Historic Deerfield featuring early New England houses and textile exhibits, tours, and craft demonstrations.

In summer, the Connecticut River offers great opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing.

Nickerson State Park Campground, Brewster

Average rate: $22 MA resident / $70 non-resident a night – Book here

Once the weather starts to warm up, camping is one of the best things to do when planning a cheap weekend getaway in Massachusetts.

In the heart of Cape Cod, Nickerson State Park is a popular destination set in pine and oak forests that slope down to the banks of eight crystal-clear fresh-water ponds. This 1,900-acre park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities and natural attractions to explore.

If you’re a Massachusetts resident, camping will only cost you $22 a night! There are over 400 campsites available, with amenities such as showers, restrooms, and fire rings. The campground is open from the beginning of May until mid-April.

Hiking is one of the best things to do while there. The park has several miles of hiking trails that lead through pine and oak forests, around kettle ponds, and to scenic vistas.

The park is home to eight freshwater kettle ponds that are popular for swimming, boating, and fishing. You can swim and canoe at Flax and Cliff Ponds and bird watch or catch and release fish at Higgins Pond.

There are also over 8 miles of paved bike trails that are great for families and beginners and that connect to the 26-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

You can also walk or bike to Cape Cod Bay or plan a road trip to explore some nearby towns and beaches.

Massasoit State Park Campground, East Taunton

Average rate: $17 MA resident / $54 non-resident a night – Book here

Another great camping option, Massasoit State Park is a beautiful park located in Taunton and offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational activities and natural attractions to explore.

There are over 200 campsites available for visitors, with all necessary amenities like showers, restrooms, and for each site, a picnic table, grill, and fire pit.

The park has several miles of hiking trails that lead through the forests and around the freshwater lakes, offering visitors the chance to see a variety of wildlife and flora. There are also a couple of mountain biking trails and a playground.

The park has two freshwater lakes and several ponds that are popular for swimming, kayaking, and boating, or just for relaxing on the beach. The beach area is for campers only to limit the crowds.

Hyannis Travel Inn, Hyannis

Average rate: $100 a night during the low season / up to $220 in summer – Book here

Hyannis is a charming coastal town located on Cape Cod in Massachusetts known for its beautiful beaches, quaint downtown area, and rich maritime history. While Cape Cod may be expensive during summer, you can easily find discounted rates during the off and shoulder seasons.

The Hyannis Travel Inn offers great deals most of the year, is well-rated, and offers good amenities. The inn is conveniently located near many shops, restaurants, and beaches, and offers free on-site parking. There are 2 swimming pools and a hot tub as well.

You won’t be far from Hyannis Harbor, where you can watch boats come and go, take a harbor cruise, or visit the Cape Cod Maritime Museum. Then walk down to the Veterans Memorial Park where you’ll find a nice beach and the John F. Kennedy Memorial.

Speaking of beaches, Hyannis is home to several beautiful beaches, including Kalmus Beach and Craigville Beach, both popular spots for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

For something more active, rent a bike and cycle along the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail, which runs through Hyannis and offers breathtaking views of the Cape’s natural beauty.

Make sure to stroll down Main Street in downtown Hyannis as well and enjoy the many shops, restaurants, and galleries that line the street.

You can also take a scenic drive through the picturesque village of Hyannisport, where you can see the famous Kennedy Compound.

With its stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and bustling downtown area, Hyannis is a must-visit destination on Cape Cod. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the local culture, or enjoy outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

Blue Dolphin Inn, Eastham

Average rate: $90 a night during the low season / up to $270 in summer – Book here

Another great option for a cheap weekend getaway in Massachusetts outside of the busy season, Eastham is a picturesque town located on the outer Cape of Massachusetts, known for its pristine beaches, natural beauty, and rich history.

The Blue Dolphin Inn is a great place to stay for families and couples alike. The inn is close to the beach and offers a seasonal outdoor pool, a big garden with a playground and barbecue facilities, and comfortable rooms that can accommodate up to 5 people.

During the weekend, you can explore the natural beauty of Cape Cod by visiting the Cape Cod National Seashore, which encompasses miles of beaches, dunes, and forests. The park is perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. The Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is also worth checking out.

Don’t miss the beaches, even if it’s too cold to swim, you can still go for a nice walk, and maybe a picnic. The closest ones to the inn are Sunken Meadow Beach, Cooks Brook Beach, and Marconi Beach.

You can also visit First Encounter Beach, a historic spot where English settlers first met the Native Americans in 1620. The beach is a great spot for picnics and sunsets.

Other things to do nearby include taking a scenic hike or bike ride through Fort Hill, biking along the Cape Cod Rail Trail, checking out Nauset Light House, and touring some historic landmarks such as the Captain Penniman House, Jonathan Young Windmill, and the French Cable Station Museum.

GuestLodge, West Dennis

Average rate: $80 a night during the low season / up to $230 in summer – Book here

Another great option to spend some time by the beach and explore Cape Cod during the off-season, the GuestLodge in West Dennis, located on the shores of Nantucket Sound, is a great place to stay during an inexpensive weekend getaway.

Not far from the hotel, you can explore West Dennis Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the area, offering over a mile of soft sand and clear blue water. Or, bike along the Cape Cod Rail Trail through miles of scenic paths passing by forests and wetlands.

If it’s not too cold, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the serene waters of the Bass River, which runs through West Dennis. You can also take a guided tour to learn about the local wildlife and ecology.

Explore the history of West Dennis and the surrounding area by visiting the Jericho Historical Center, which features exhibits on local maritime history, agriculture, and more.

In town, indulge in some of the best homemade ice cream on Cape Cod at Sundae School Ice Cream, a local institution that has been serving up delicious treats since 1976.

Located in nearby Dennis, the Cape Cod Museum of Art features a diverse collection of artwork by local and regional artists, as well as special exhibitions and events throughout the year. The Cape Cod Museum Of Natural History is also worth checking out and kids will love touring the Whydah Pirate Museum.

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