Best Getaways For Parents Near Boston

Parents have different needs when it comes to vacationing. Whether it is making sure there are no kids around on a kids-free trip or making sure the kids will be happy on a family trip, there are special considerations to be made. When making plans to leave the city and head for a great location near Boston, there are plenty of choices within about an hour of New England's largest hub. All of them offer something a little different from the others and a lot different from the city vibe of Boston.

Plymouth, Massachusetts
Radisson Hotel Plymouth Harbor
180 Water St.
Plymouth, MA 02360
(508) 747-4900
www.radisson.com

On a gorgeous harbor filled with boats, shops and a wide array of restaurants, Plymouth's scenic part of town is a premier South Shore destination. In just over 45 minutes, parents can get to Plymouth from Boston. The great part about this area is that it is family-friendly during the day and offers plenty of adult options at night, be it a cocktail cruise on the harbor or a party at one of the many entertainment bars. While some love the John Carver Inn for its amenities, the Radisson is just across from the water, jetty and the biggest seafood restaurant in town, The Lobster Hut.

Newport, Rhode Island
Castle Hill Inn
590 Ocean Ave.
Newport, RI 02840
(888) 466-1355
www.castlehillinn.com

Known primarily for its romantic vestiges of Newport's uber-posh past, Newport is one of the best places for parents to go and appreciate the beauty of both architecture and nature. Parents can take private tours of the famous Newport mansions or take their kids along on a public tour. Likewise, the beautiful Cliff Walk along the rocky coast is great for romance or a family outing. However, because it is such a stunning place and so conducive to relaxation, it may be best to wait until there is a babysitter lined up to enjoy Newport. After all, the Castle Hill Inn offers suites, cottages and beach houses that are somewhat best left to a couple with nothing to do but enjoy the space.

Hampton Beach, New Hampshire
Ashworth By The Sea
295 Ocean Blvd.
Hampton, NH 03842
(603) 926-6762
www.ashworthhotel.com

Hampton Beach, one hour north of Boston, has fantastic nightlife, including live music at the Casino Ballroom and plenty of bars for the adults. And for the family, spending a day on the boardwalk and beach would be a great daytime outing. Book for a week with Ashworth by the Sea, and stay the 7th night free (kids stay free for the entire booking).

Related: A Guide To The Boston Area's Best Beaches

Rockport, Massachusetts
Seacrest Manor
99 Marmion Way
Rockport, MA 01966
(978) 546-2211
www.seacrestmanor.com

Rockport offers everything New Englanders admire about the North Shore. It is a quaint, historic town on the Cape Ann Peninsula. Touched by the sea on the north, east and south, there is a stunning view to be had in nearly every direction. Parents who enjoy quiet strolls through peaceful wilderness and colorful sunsets over the water will love Cape Ann. Even adventurous types who like to pit their kayaks against the North Atlantic will enjoy this coastal town. Shack up at the historic Seacrest Manor for a taste of the good life with a natural view in every direction.

Sandwich, Massachusetts
Dan'l Webster Inn & Spa
149 Main St.
Sandwich, MA 02563
(508) 888-3622
www.danlwebsterinn.com

Named for one of the most famous politicians in Massachusetts history, the Dan'l Webster Inn is located on scenic Cape Cod. When it comes to getaways for parents outside of Boston, Cape Cod is the most popular. With everything to do from sailing to shopping, few places are easier to enjoy than Sandwich and the surrounding cape. If luxury and romance are what couples with kids are looking for, even other hotels on the Cape cannot compete with the Dan'l Webster Inn. Be ready for four-poster beds, in-room whirlpools and marble surfaces.

Related: Winter Camping Guide For Boston