Assen – About 30 minutes from Groningen, Assen is known for the Drents Museum, which showcases art, history, and archaeology. There's also the TT Circuit Assen for motorsport fans.

Leeuwarden – Around 1 hour from Groningen, Leeuwarden is a charming city that offers museums like the Fries Museum, as well as lovely canals and historical buildings. It's also the 2018 European Capital of Culture.

National Park Lauwersmeer – Just a short drive from Groningen, this park is perfect for nature lovers. It offers hiking, birdwatching, and water activities like sailing or kayaking.

Bourtange – A historic star-shaped fort, about an hour from Groningen, Bourtange is a living history museum where you can step back in time and experience the 16th-century fortifications.

Wadden Sea – A bit further out, but a must-see if you’re into nature, the Wadden Sea is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can take a boat trip to some of the Wadden Islands or do a mudflat walk.

Hoge Veluwe National Park – Though a bit further south, this park is worth the trip for its beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and the Kröller-Müller Museum, which holds an extensive collection of Van Gogh paintings.