Summertime equals adventure. It's not hard to satisfy that craving in Boston, especially where you can leave the city easily for a day or two. With a number of transport options and speed of travel, exploring the areas outside of the city couldn't be a better way to spend your summer months off. Below are just a few of the best places to get to from Boston.

1. New York City

This one's a given. The city that never sleeps offers a wide range of activities to partake in and spots to check out. See a show, visit those renowned museums, stroll through Central Park, eat a slice of pizza. And cheesecake, of course. It's always packed, but you don't have to hang around Times Square to experience the city (you aren't missing much after seeing it once), just find a place that intrigues you! It has something for everyone.

2. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is a charming seaside city less than 90 minutes outside of Boston. Home to the extravagant Newport Mansions, you can make the trek to tour these immaculate homes, occupied for eight weeks out of the year. Unbelievable! you'll say on arrival. The grounds of all are well maintained, and for a while you can experience the luxury of such a place. Don't miss out on the cliff walk, which offers spectacular views of the sea.

3. Burlington, Vermont

Four or so hours away is the young and chic Burlington. Take time to roam Church Street and shop or order a maple latte and listen to street performers, sit along the lake area and try some of their craft brews. I'm partial to their Dirty Mayor cider. Also, check out My Little Cupcake. On Friday nights, you can check out their special of three treats paired with three wines. Nothing could be sweeter!

4. Ogunquit, Maine

Day-long beach day, anyone? Og is one of the nicest beaches I've ever visited. It can get busy in the summer, as beaches do, but it's one place that you can set up shop at early and stay until the sun begins its descent over the water. There's a quaintness that overtakes you if you explore the town, and even drive through. Check out some of their ice cream shops; we stopped at a small one around a bend in the road just outside of town and it gave "summer" a lifelong meaning.