Springtime Stroll at Crane Estate: Guided Nature Walk of Hidden Shores, Gardens & Trails

Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL5&nbsp;at checkout for a special 5% savings just for Boston Calendar! Escape the city and uncover the hidden beauty of Castle Hill—reserve your spot today! Come explore the lesser-visited corners of Castle Hill and its surroundings with us. This hike is a CraneOutdoors guide favorite because it’s got a little bit of all the things that make the Crane Estate such a special place!<ul><li>A stroll along the spine of Castle Hill, starting at the Barn Complex and working our way to the Great House, down the famous Grand Allée, and ending at Steep Hill with far-reaching views of Ipswich Bay, Plum Island, and the New England coastline all the way into Maine.</li></ul><ul><li>A walk along the Crane Estate’s less visited, but-no-less-beautiful “other” seashore (Steep Hill Beach) where it’s not uncommon to see waterfowl visitors from the arctic-like Common Eider, Black and White Winged Scooters, and the spectacular Long-Tailed Duck</li></ul><ul><li>A hike through the dunes with spectacular views of the saltmarsh surrounding Fox Creek</li></ul><ul><li>A visit to the newly renovated Rose Garden and the beautiful Italian Garden</li></ul>This hike brings us through historically built landscapes, past sweeping views of Castle Neck and the Great Marsh, and through quiet woodland trails. This one truly has it all. Optional Add-On:&nbsp;Guest of The Crane’s guided Estate Tour (can be added during check out). What’s Included<ul><li>Weekend commuter rail pass</li><li>Transportation to/from the station</li><li>Certified CraneOutdoor's guide</li><li>Time on your own to explore</li></ul>

Crane Estate

Day Trip from Boston: Exploring Hammond Castle Museum-  Transportation Included!

Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL5&nbsp;at checkout for a special 5% savings just for Boston Calendar! Step inside a medieval-style castle on the New England coast! The Hammond Castle Museum, built in the 1920s by eccentric inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., is a stunning mix of history, architecture, and innovation. Wander through its grand halls, secret passageways, and oceanfront grounds at your own pace, uncovering the fascinating legacy of one of America’s greatest inventors. What You’ll Experience: Self-Guided Castle Exploration&nbsp;– Roam through the breathtaking halls, medieval artifacts, and hidden chambers of this one-of-a-kind seaside castle. See its towering stone archways, gothic-style rooms, and original furnishings. Scenic Ocean Views&nbsp;– Step onto the castle’s terraces for stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gloucester’s rocky coastline. Inventor’s Legacy&nbsp;– Learn about Hammond’s groundbreaking work in radio and remote control technology through interactive exhibits and displays. What’s Included<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass ** Valid all weekend on all Commuter Rail Lines </li><li>Private transportation to/from the station</li><li>Entry fee into the museum</li><li>2 Hours to explore at your own pace</li></ul>Why You’ll Love This Tour Seamless &amp; Stress-Free&nbsp;– Round-trip transportation from Boston’s North Station is included. &nbsp;Perfect for History &amp; Architecture Lovers&nbsp;– A unique blend of medieval design and 20th-century innovation. &nbsp;Explore at Your Own Pace&nbsp;– A self-guided experience lets you take in the castle’s beauty on your terms. Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL5&nbsp;at checkout for a special 5% savings just for Boston Calendar! Visit our website listed to the left to book your weekend adventure today!

Hammond Castle

A Day at Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House Guided Tour w/ Transportation from Boston

Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL5 at checkout for a 5% savings just for Boston Calendar! Step into the World of “Little Women” and Explore the Legacy of One of America’s Most Beloved Authors! Join Keolis massAdventures for an enchanting day in Concord, Massachusetts, at the Louisa May Alcott Orchard House, the cherished home where Alcott wrote her iconic novel. Nestled in the heart of literary history, this National Historic Landmark offers a glimpse into the lives of the Alcott family and the inspirations behind “Little Women.” Your journey begins with a ride aboard the Commuter Rail, followed by private, chartered transportation to the Orchard House. During your 45-minute guided tour, you’ll walk through preserved rooms filled with original family furnishings, personal artifacts, and stories that bring the 19th century to life. Marvel at the simplicity and charm of the space that fostered Alcott’s creativity. After the tour, enjoy free time exploring the grounds or wandering through downtown Concord before meeting the bus back at the Orchard Home to head back to Boston. If you’d like to stay in Concord longer to explore, grab lunch, or visit more sites feel free to reach out to us and we can suggest a later train home. This day trip offers a perfect blend of history, literature, and relaxation. Whether you’re a “Little Women” fan or a history enthusiast, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. What’s Included:<ul><li>Commuter rail pass</li><li>Transportation to/from the station</li><li>45-Minute guided tour of the home</li><li>Time on your own to explore the grounds</li></ul>What to Bring:<ul><li>Water</li><li>Snacks</li><li>Weather appropriate clothing</li></ul>

Louisa May Alcott Orchard house

Explore The New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill: Day Trip from Boston

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and springtime flowers with a&nbsp;self-guided visit to the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston, MA.&nbsp;A stunning 171-acre oasis featuring vibrant gardens, peaceful walking trails, and breathtaking scenic views. This relaxing day trip includes&nbsp;round-trip rail transportation&nbsp;and a&nbsp;private shuttle, making it a hassle-free escape from the city. What to Expect: Round-Trip Commuter Rail Ticket from Boston Private Shuttle to the Botanic Garden&nbsp;– Upon arrival into the Grafton, MA station,&nbsp;our van will transport you directly to the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. &nbsp;Explore at Your Own Pace&nbsp;– Wander through a diverse collection of&nbsp;seasonal gardens, lush conservatories, and woodland trails&nbsp;at your leisure. Whether you’re admiring colorful floral displays, enjoying the tranquility of the Secret Garden, or taking in stunning views of Wachusett Reservoir, this experience is yours to enjoy however you’d like. Return Shuttle &amp; Train to Boston&nbsp;– After a rejuvenating visit, our private shuttle will bring you back to the station for a smooth ride home. What's Included:<ul><li>Commuter Rail Pass* Valid all weekend on all Commuter Rail Lines*</li><li>Private transportation to/from the station *No need to find a rideshare, we've got you covered!*</li><li>3 hours 45 min to explore</li><li>New England Botanic Garden Admission Ticket</li></ul>

New England Botanic Gardens at Tower Hill

Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL5&nbsp;at checkout for a special 5% savings just for Boston Calendar! Visit our website listed to the left to book your weekend adventure today! Step inside a medieval-style castle on the New England coast! The Hammond Castle Museum, built in the 1920s by eccentric inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., is a stunning mix of history, architecture, and innovation. Wander through its grand halls, secret passageways, and oceanfront grounds at your own pace, uncovering the fascinating legacy of one of America’s greatest inventors. What You’ll Experience: Self-Guided Castle Exploration&nbsp;– Roam through the breathtaking halls, medieval artifacts, and hidden chambers of this one-of-a-kind seaside castle. See its towering stone archways, gothic-style rooms, and original furnishings. Scenic Ocean Views&nbsp;– Step onto the castle’s terraces for stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gloucester’s rocky coastline. Inventor’s Legacy&nbsp;– Learn about Hammond’s groundbreaking work in radio and remote control technology through interactive exhibits and displays. What’s Included<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass ** Valid all weekend on all Commuter Rail Lines</li><li>Private transportation to/from the station</li><li>Entry fee into the museum</li><li>2 Hours to explore at your own pace</li></ul>Why You’ll Love This Tour Seamless &amp; Stress-Free&nbsp;– Round-trip transportation from Boston’s North Station is included. &nbsp;Perfect for History &amp; Architecture Lovers&nbsp;– A unique blend of medieval design and 20th-century innovation. &nbsp;Explore at Your Own Pace&nbsp;– A self-guided experience lets you take in the castle’s beauty on your terms. Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL5&nbsp;at checkout for a special 5% savings just for Boston Calendar! Visit our website listed to the left to book your weekend adventure today!

 Meadery Tour & Wine Tasting W/ Transportation from Boston Included

SAVE 5% with code: Boscal5 A Sweet &amp; Spirited Escape from Boston Discover the ancient art of mead-making on this unique day trip from Boston! Travel by train to one of New England’s premier meaderies, where you’ll enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the process of turning local honey into delicious craft mead, followed by a guided tasting of a variety of flavors. What to Expect: <ul><li>Round-Trip Commuter Rail Ticket from Boston&nbsp;– Sit back and enjoy a Train ride to the Lowell, MA Station</li><li>Private Shuttle to the Meadery&nbsp;– Upon arrival, our van will take you directly to the meadery for your tasting experience.</li><li>Behind-the-Scenes Meadery Tour&nbsp;– Learn how this ancient beverage is crafted, from sourcing local honey to fermentation and bottling.</li><li>Guided Mead Tasting&nbsp;– Sample a selection of handcrafted meads, ranging from dry and complex to sweet and fruity, while learning about their unique flavors and pairings.</li><li>Return Shuttle &amp; Train to Boston&nbsp;– After a delightful tasting experience, our private shuttle will bring you back to the station for a smooth ride home.</li></ul>Why You’ll Love This Tour: Perfect for craft beverage lovers &amp; food enthusiasts &nbsp;Hassle-free transportation with rail &amp; shuttle included A unique tasting experience with locally sourced ingredients What’s Included<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass</li><li>Private transportation to/from the station</li><li>45-Minute guided tour of the meadery</li><li>Mead tasting paired with a cheese &amp; charcuterie board</li></ul>

Honeybound Meadery

Lights, Camera, Castle Hill: A Hollywood & History Tour

Use code:&nbsp;BOSCAL5&nbsp;at checkout for a special 5% savings just for Boston Calendar! Step onto the grand estate where Hollywood magic and history collide! This exclusive tour takes you through Castle Hill at the Crane Estate, the breathtaking filming location of the acclaimed 2019 movie&nbsp;Little Women. Walk in the footsteps of stars like Timothée Chalamet, Florence Pugh, and Meryl Streep while uncovering the estate’s fascinating past as a Gilded Age summer retreat. What You’ll Experience &nbsp;Behind-the-Scenes Hollywood Stories&nbsp;– Discover the iconic filming locations from&nbsp;Little Women&nbsp;and hear insider stories about the production. The Grand Crane Estate&nbsp;– Stroll through the stunning Great House grounds, where the wealthy Crane family once entertained guests in lavish style. ( 1/4 mile walk) Breathtaking Coastal Views&nbsp;– Take in sweeping ocean vistas from Castle Hill’s rolling lawns, a picture-perfect setting for both movies and real-life escapes. Perfect for Film &amp; History Lovers&nbsp;– Whether you’re a&nbsp;Little Women&nbsp;fan, a history buff, or both, this tour brings the best of Hollywood and the past together. What's Included<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass </li></ul>* Pass is valid the entire weekend of your trip on all Commuter Rail lines<ul><li>Last Mile Transportation via Private Van</li><li>90 Minute Guided</li><li>1.5 hours on your own to explore</li></ul>Why You’ll Love This Tour: Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Access&nbsp;– See filming locations up close and recreate memorable scenes. &nbsp;A Blend of Movie Magic &amp; Real History&nbsp;– Learn how this grand estate shaped both cinema and high society. Seamless &amp; Stress-Free&nbsp;– Round-trip transportation from Boston’s North Station is included. &nbsp; Accessibility: This is an outdoor tour and will involve approximately 1/4 mile of walking on grass and pavement,&nbsp;with some uneven stairs. Headset amplifier available upon request.

Explore New Bedford: Food Tour & Whaling Museum Experience- Roundtrip Transportation from Boston Included!

Take 15% off with code: MA15 ﻿ Join Keolis massAdventures on a unique day trip from Boston to New Bedford on the brand new Southcoast Rail,, where history and flavor collide! This guided experience takes you on a journey through the city’s rich maritime past at the renowned&nbsp;New Bedford Whaling Museum, followed by a&nbsp;delicious walking food tour&nbsp;through the heart of downtown. What to Expect: Scenic Train Ride from Boston&nbsp;– Relax and enjoy a comfortable train ride to New Bedford, taking in coastal views along the way. &nbsp;New Bedford Whaling Museum&nbsp;– Step back in time at this world-class museum, where you’ll learn about the city’s whaling heritage, see massive whale skeletons, and explore fascinating exhibits on seafaring culture.&nbsp;(1 hour spent at the museum) Downtown New Bedford Food Tour&nbsp;– Meet your local guide for a flavorful walking tour through New Bedford’s vibrant food scene! You’ll sample delicious bites from a variety of local eateries, learning about the city’s diverse culinary influences and maritime traditions along the way.&nbsp;(3-hour tour, approx. 1.5 miles) Return Train to Boston&nbsp;– After a day of exploration and indulgence, relax on the ride back to Boston, filled with new memories and a full belly! Why You’ll Love This Tour:<ul><li>Perfect mix of history &amp; food</li><li>Hassle-free travel with included Weekend Commuter Rail pass valid all weekend</li><li>&nbsp;Ideal for history buffs, foodies, and adventurers alike</li></ul>What's Included:<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass* Pass is valid the entire weekend of your trip on all Commuter Rail lines </li><li>Last Mile Transportation via Private Van</li><li>Whaling Museum Entry Ticket</li><li>3 Hour guided Food Tour * Alcohol is not included </li><li>Restaurant gratuities</li></ul>

Downtown New Bedford

Day Trip from Boston: Kayak Castle Neck River at Crane Estate

Sign up for our newsletter and take 10% off this tour! Experience the stunning natural beauty of the Crane Wildlife Refuge from a whole new perspective—by kayak! This guided paddling adventure takes you through quiet salt marshes, tidal rivers, and serene estuaries, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Crane Estate. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and coastal tranquility. What You’ll Experience: Guided Kayaking Excursion&nbsp;– Paddle through the calm waters of Essex Bay and the Crane Wildlife Refuge alongside expert guides who’ll share the ecology, wildlife, and history of this extraordinary landscape. Scenic Salt Marshes &amp; Estuaries&nbsp;– Glide past golden marsh grasses, winding creeks, and hidden channels teeming with birdlife and coastal creatures. Free Time at Crane Beach&nbsp;– After your paddle, enjoy time to relax, sunbathe, grab a snack at the&nbsp;<a href="https://cranebeach-snackshack.square.site/">Crane Beach Snack Shack</a>&nbsp;or stroll along the pristine sands of Crane Beach—one of the most beautiful beaches in Massachusetts. What’s Included<ul><li>Weekend Commuter Rail Pass</li><li>Transportation to/from the estate via private van from the Ipswich MBTA Station</li><li>ACA Certified Guide</li><li>Single Ocean Kayak Rental</li><li>Life preserver and paddle</li><li>Admission to Crane Beach &amp; Time on your own to enjoy the beach</li></ul>What to Bring<ul><li>Sunscreen/sun protection</li><li>Snacks</li><li>Water</li><li>Towel</li><li>Swimwear or clothing that you don’t mind getting wet!</li></ul>Need-to- Knows: there are restrooms, showers, and changing areas at the beach for your connivence Please note: Per the Trustee’s guidelines Participants must be competent swimmers and age 15 or older.&nbsp;

Crane Beach

Exploring Hammond Castle Museum-  transportation from Boston included!

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S19: interest based

WBUR’s 75th birthday celebrations 💫

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.