Road Trip from Andover to Salem, New Hampshire: Which Route is Best?

Are you planning a road trip from Andover, Massachusetts to Salem, New Hampshire? Whether you are heading to Salem for some shopping or to explore the local history, it is important to know which route is the quickest. You don't want to waste hours driving when you could be exploring all that Salem has to offer! In this post, we'll explore a few different routes and the average time it takes to drive from one destination to the other, so you can make the most out of your road trip.

The Fastest Route

If you're in a hurry, the fastest route from Andover to Salem is to take I-93 North. This route is just over 18 miles long and takes around 25 minutes to drive, barring any unexpected traffic. While this route does take you through some busy areas such as Methuen and Lawrence, it is the most direct way to get to your destination. If you're driving during peak traffic hours, expect the drive to take closer to 40 minutes.

The Scenic Route

If you have some extra time and want to see a bit more of New England, consider taking the scenic route through the smaller towns. This is a great opportunity to explore the charming towns of Pelham and Windham, New Hampshire. While this route is a bit longer, coming in at around 23 miles, it is definitely worth the extra few minutes of driving. However, keep in mind that this route can take closer to 40 minutes or an hour to drive during peak traffic times.

Alternative Routes

While I-93 North is the most direct way to get to Salem from Andover, there are a few alternative routes you may want to consider. These may take a bit longer, but they offer a unique driving experience. For example, taking route 114 through Methuen and Lawrence can add some interesting local flavor to your road trip. This route is around 19 miles and can take between 30 minutes to an hour to drive, depending on traffic.

Final Thoughts

When planning a road trip, it's important to factor in how long it will take to get to your destination. By choosing the right route, you can save time and see some beautiful scenery along the way. Ultimately, the route that you choose will depend on your priorities: do you want to get to Salem as quickly as possible or take a more scenic drive? No matter what you choose, we hope you have a fantastic road trip!