The Great American Road Trip: Boston to Philadelphia
Are you planning a road trip from Boston to Philadelphia? Driving between these two iconic East Coast cities can be a breeze, but only if you know your routes and allow plenty of travel time. Whether you're looking for the fastest way or the most scenic route, we've got you covered.
The Distance and the Time It Takes
Before we dive into the various routes, let's get a sense of the distance and time you'll need to budget for this trip. The shortest distance between Boston, Massachusetts and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is approximately 305 miles. Factoring in traffic and other variables, the drive can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours, depending on your route and the amount of stops you make along the way.
The Best Routes
There are three main routes you can take when driving from Boston to Philadelphia:
Route 1: Interstate 95
The I-95 is the most direct route and the fastest way to get from Boston to Philadelphia. You'll travel through several states, including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and finally, Pennsylvania. The total distance you’ll cover is approximately 310 miles, and without any stops, the average driving time is around 6 hours.
Route 2: Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and I-84
If you're looking to bypass New York City traffic, this is the route for you. Take the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) westbound and link up with I-84 at exit 9. Continue along I-84 until you reach I-91 southbound. From there, take exit 29 onto the Connecticut Turnpike (I-84) and then join I-91 again as you head south towards New Haven. Finally, take I-95 south into Philadelphia. This will cover approximately 340 miles and take about 7-8 hours.
Route 3: The Scenic Route
If you have more time and want to take in some sights along the way, consider taking Route 1 south out of Boston towards Cape Cod. Turn west onto Route 6, which will take you across the southern coast of Massachusetts before looping back around towards I-195. From there, the drive takes you through scenic rural Pennsylvania, including Amish Country, before connecting with I-95 north of Philadelphia. This route is approximately 400 miles long and can take 8-9 hours or so, depending on how many stops you make.
Places to Stop Along the Way
If you're taking the scenic route, there are dozens of charming small towns and attractions you can visit along the way. Some highlights include:
- Cape Cod National Seashore
- Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket islands
- Historic New Bedford, Massachusetts
- Newport, Rhode Island and the famous Gilded Age mansions
- Mystic Seaport, Connecticut
- Valley Forge National Historical Park, Pennsylvania
Conclusion
No matter which route you choose, the drive from Boston to Philadelphia is a fun and enjoyable experience. Just make sure to plan accordingly, allowing enough time for pit stops and potential detours, and you'll arrive at your destination safe, happy, and refreshed. Happy road tripping!