Im about 20 minutes outside of Boston (that really means 1 - 2 hours with the traffic factor).
I would not suggest coming in the winter or spring. During summer and fall seasons, it is a hopping, happening place.
We have lots of waterfront activities, harbor cruises, dining cruises, mystery cruises, sunset and lobster cruises. Shopping is second only to that other place 4 hours to the west. Lots of shows, much less expensive that that other place too. #1 sports teams, fantastic food, lots of coast line, historic areas, museums, outdoor entertainment, infamous Italian North End with festivals every weekend during the summer (outdoor vendors, entertainment, food)
About a 40 minute drive (on a Sunday night), you can reach the bridge to the Cape (Cape Cod). Catch a ferry to Marthas Vineyard and schmooze with the President and many other politicians. Catch a glimpse on Kennedy country on a harbor cruise out of Hyannis.
An hour to the north is Portland ME, great outlet shopping, more beaches and a ferry to Nova Scotia, Canada.
An hour to the south is Providence RI. Lots of great Italian food in Fed Hill.
An hour 20 min. to the southwest is CT, you can go to Mohegan Sun or MGM Foxwoods Casino, largest casino in the world (if Dubai didnt build a bigger one yet). Lots of shows at both of those places too, spa treatments and many restaurants.
Or...20 minutes to the west is my house! Depending on where you live, we could house swap for the week! I have a large yard, computer, several TVs, lots of video game systems for the kids, deck w/ BBQ and nosy neighbors to keep you company!