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Driving to Boston

All roads lead to Boston. Or at least, a lot of roads in the Northeast do. Interstate highways and routes that lead into Boston abound, from scenic routes to toll express highways. Be sure to figure your route to the city before you depart and to be entirely clear on getting around Boston once you arrive. Driving and parking around Boston can be a pain due to traffic, and this is made even worse if you are not exactly certain on where to go.

Taking Interstate 95 to Boston

Interstate 95 is the longest north to south road or highway in the United States. It goes from Maine to Florida and cruises through such cities as Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Baltimore, New York, New Haven, and Providence before entering strolling around the outskirts of Boston as part of Route 128. And then it goes on to Maine. Needless to say, it is one of the most used roads for entry from the north and south of Boston.

If you travel via Interstate 95, realize that you will have to change roads to enter the city and see downtown Boston attractions like the Boston Harbor and Fenway Park.

Taking Interstate 93 to Boston

Another highly used route for access to the city from the north and south is Interstate 93. Running alongside with Route 3, another route leading into Boston, this route rolls through the southern suburbs of Boston and through Quincy and Dorchester near Massachusetts Avenue before continuing east into the area of Braintree. Nearing Boston, the highway joins with Route 1 as the same road. It also has a major crossing with Interstate 90, which is the Massachusetts Turnpike, in the south of Boston.

Taking Interstate 90 to Boston

Entry to Boston from the west comes via Interstate 90, the Massachusetts Turnpike. Entry from the east happens only by boat. Cars can’t drive on water, so don’t attempt it.

Interstate 90 starts in Seattle, working its way across the country and through Cleveland and finally up the east coast. It enters into the city from west Boston via the Allston and Brighton areas. For those driving to Boston from the Midwest, this route is a common choice.

Things to Expect

Unless you can afford the time to travel along the various back roads to Boston, expect to have change ready for the tolls. All three of the main interstates mentioned have tolls. From Ohio, toll fees will run you upwards of $25 one-way. From D.C., allocate $15 to $20 for toll amounts.

When it comes to traffic and entering city, it all depends when you arrive. Those coming in late in the evening or very early in the morning should not expect much traffic to slow them down. Those entering Boston in the morning should expect it traffic to move at a slow pace, especially if it is a weekday. Car traffic between ten and two flows at an average rate. The nighttime hours between four and seven can get pretty hectic, especially if there are sporting events in Boston happening.

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Driving to Boston