The Ultimate Driving Guide from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Ashland, Massachusetts

If you are planning to take a drive from Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Ashland, Massachusetts, knowing which route to take is vital. Not only will it save you time, but it will also help you avoid traffic. To help you get to Ashland quickly and safely, we've put together a comprehensive guide that dives into the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and how long it takes to drive both at peak and low traffic times.

Route 1: The Fastest Route

If speed is of the essence, then taking Route 1 is your best option. This route comprises of a 34-mile drive, and it takes approximately 40 minutes if traffic is light. The route starts on MA-2 W and takes you through I-95 S, then merges to I-90 W, and finally exits at Exit 12.

If you're planning to travel during peak hours, such as during rush hour, keep in mind that the drive time vastly differs. During rush hour, this route can take up to an hour. So, if you're in a hurry, avoid travelling during peak traffic time.

Route 2: Scenic but Slow

If you're more interested in a scenic ride that takes you through picturesque views, the scenic route is your answer. This route entails driving a distance of 21.3 miles and takes approximately 40 minutes.

To take the scenic route, take I-90 W from Cambridge, then exit at 13 onto MA-30 W. This route requires travelling through some winding roads and could take a little longer than expected, especially with traffic.

The Slowest Route: Through Downtown Boston

Unfortunately, driving through the Boston traffic is undeniably one of the slowest routes. Going through downtown Boston using the I-90 takes up to an hour to cover a distance of 25.5 miles. This route takes you through the Ted Williams Tunnel, and you'll also need to pay a toll ranging from $1.25 to $10 per trip, depending on the vehicle.

Real-Time Traffic Information

We all know that traffic can be unpredictable, and driving time can significantly differ, depending on the route you choose. If you want to keep track of real-time traffic before you hit the road, we recommend checking out apps such as Waze or Google Maps. These apps not only monitor real-time traffic, but they also offer alternative routes to help you avoid traffic jams.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the best route for you depends on your driving preferences, schedule, and time constraints. The fastest route is likely to give you the least amount of stress, but if you have time and prefer a pleasant drive, taking the scenic route will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

We hope you find this guide helpful and that it'll be useful for your next drive from Cambridge to Ashland. Happy driving!