Road Trip! The Best Ways to Travel From Boston to Framingham

When the urge strikes to escape the hustle and bustle of Boston for a day, consider a jaunt out to Framingham, where the pace is relaxed and the scenery is pretty. But how to get there? With a few different routes to choose from, it's easy to find the option that works best for your timeframe and budget. Here are some of the top ways to travel from Boston to Framingham:

Route 1: Mass Pike (I-90)

Distance: 18 miles (29 kilometers) Driving Time: 25 minutes (without traffic)

The most direct route from Boston to Framingham is along the Massachusetts Turnpike. This toll road cuts through several cities and can be quite busy during peak travel times, so plan accordingly. If you're lucky enough to hit it at a good time, you'll reach Framingham in just about a half-hour.

Along the way, you might want to exit at Natick and visit the Natick Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in New England. Or, stop in the town of Brighton and grab a bite to eat at The Stockyard, a steakhouse that's been a neighborhood fixture for over 40 years.

Route 2: Route 9

Distance: 23 miles (37 kilometers) Driving Time: 30 minutes (without traffic)

If you want a slightly longer, more scenic drive, consider taking Route 9 from Boston to Framingham. This road curves through several towns and passes by a handful of attractions, such as the Chestnut Hill Reservoir and the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation.

Along the way, make a quick stop in the town of Wellesley and visit the Elm Bank Reservation, a 182-acre park with walking trails and gardens. Or, pop over to the Natick Collection for some upscale shopping.

Route 3: I-95 and Route 30

Distance: 21 miles (34 kilometers) Driving Time: 35 minutes (without traffic)

For a change of pace, take I-95 south from Boston and exit onto Route 30 west. This route takes you through the small town of Weston, where you can stop to admire the Gropius House, an iconic example of Bauhaus architecture.

You might also want to pause in the town of Wayland and take a stroll through the Gardens at Grist Mill, a peaceful oasis with a pond and walking paths.

Route 4: Route 16

Distance: 18 miles (29 kilometers) Driving Time: 40 minutes (without traffic)

For a more leisurely drive, try Route 16 from Boston to Framingham. This road meanders westward through several towns and offers glimpses of local landmarks such as the Boston Marathon starting line in Hopkinton and the Waltham Watch Factory.

Along the way, take a break in the town of Wellesley and visit the Wellesley College Botanic Gardens, which boast a wide range of plant life and walking trails.

No matter which route you choose, the drive from Boston to Framingham is a quick and easy getaway that delivers big on relaxation and recreation. Happy travels!