places to visit between dc and boston

• South Africa
• Philippines
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Solomon Islands
• Itineraries
• About Travel2Next
• Hotel Reviews
• Travel2Next TV
• Travel Shop

• Destinations
• North America
• Things To Do

20 Places To Visit On A Boston To Washington DC Road Trip

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

Explore the northeastern states of the USA on a Boston to Washington D.C. road trip. Solid driving can see you reach your destination in a little over seven hours of drive time, covering 440 miles (708.11 kilometres). This would mean missing out on some great cities, towns, national parks and other attractions along the way. Depending on your route, you could visit eight states, spend some time by the ocean, explore the mountains and absorb plenty of history. The route from Boston to Washington D.C. is historical in nature as you may pass through some of the most important sites in the USA.

Beginning in Boston, you will uncover the birthplace of the American Revolution and discover secrets about the first English Puritan settlers who landed there. Then step into historic Philadelphia, where the USA’s Founding Fathers met and wrote the U.S. Constitution. Finally, arrive in Washington D.C., the capital city of America and explore how these historic events shaped modern-day politics.

Your journey needn’t be fully steeped in history, however. Each city stop reveals culture, cuisine, beauty, nightlife and more. Each location is unique and you might add them to your future travel lists. Avoid the solid drive and take the scenic route. Here are 20 places to explore on your Boston to Washington D.C. road trip.

1- Boston, MA

2- cape cod, ma, 3- providence, ri, 4- worcester, ma, 5- old sturbridge village, ma, 6- springfield, ma, 7- stafford motor speedway, ct, 8- new york city, ny, 9- newark, nj, 10- allentown, nj, 11- trenton, nj, 12- atlantic city, nj, 13- philadelphia, pa, 14- wilmington, de, 15- susquehanna state park, md, 16- gettysburg, pa, 17- catoctin mountain park, md, 18- baltimore, md, 19- annapolis, md, 20- washington d.c., boston to washington dc.

• Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour – one of the coolest tours in Boston!
• New York CityPASS – save money and get access to several attractions.
• Best of Philadelphia Food Tour – Small-group walking tour.
• 2-Hour Gettysburg Battlefield Guided History Bus Tour – with a National Park Guide.
• Washington DC Monuments – Moonlight tour by trolley.

Begin your epic Boston to Washington D.C. road trip in Massachusetts’ state capital.

Boston is packed with history, arts, culture and sports so regardless of who you are travelling with, you will find something to enjoy together.

Book a Fenway Park tour to explore the home ground of the Boston Red Sox baseball team.

Fenway Park is a great place to uncover some baseball history in the oldest ballpark in the league.

Uncover Boston’s local history at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum to learn about the Boston Tea Party through various interactive exhibits and exploring aboard restored tea ships.

If you are in Boston overnight , head to the Skywalk Observatory for incredible views over the glittering city lights.

Recommended tour: Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour .

Cape Cod is typically a summer destination for travellers and holidaymakers however, visiting year-round is still a great way to explore this stretch of New England coastline.

There are many little towns in Cape Cod, all with stunning ocean views, great restaurants, and laid-back environments.

Explore Cape Cod National Seashore to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Atlantic Ocean while strolling along golden sandy beaches.

This stretch of coastline covers more than 40 miles (64.37 kilometres).

While in Cape Cod, try the seafood as its coastal location means seafood is always freshly caught.

Sample lobster bisque or try fried oysters.

Driving from Boston to Cape Cod covers 70 miles (112.65 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Recommended tour: Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour .

Cross into Rhode Island to explore the city of Providence, the state’s capital, which you can do on your own with this downtown self-driving audio tour .

Providence is a must-visit city for lovers of architecture. The city is filled with an eclectic blend of art deco, Victorian and modern buildings.

If art is more your thing, visit the RISD Museum of Art, which is packed with works of art from across the globe, including Japanese prints.

New artists’ work is often showcased here as the museum is attached to the Rhode Island School of Design.

Before departing, head to Federal Hill, the city’s Italian district. Here you will find delis with delicious treats such as freshly made mozzarella and soft and fruity panettone.

Driving from Cape Cod to Providence covers 76 miles (122.31 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Recommended tour: Providence Narrated Boat Tours .

Venture back into Massachusetts to explore Worcester, the second-largest city in the state, which is packed with exciting things to do on your road trip.

Browse the stalls at Crompton Collective, a boutique and antique marketplace.

Once you have had your fill of unique and unusual treasures, head to Canal District Farmers Market for a bite or to grab some snacks for the rest of your journey.

If you are visiting with children or love animals, visit Green Hill Park Farm. This free-to-enter farm is home to pigs, llamas and chickens. 

Driving from Providence to Worcester covers 39.3 miles (63.25 kilometres) and takes approximately 40 minutes.

Recommended tour: Let’s Roam’s Worcester Scavenger Hunt: Wiggle Round Worcester!

Step back in time at the living museum of Old Sturbridge Village and spend a few hours immersing yourself in history before continuing your road trip.

The museum recreates life in the 1830s through 40 historical buildings and costumed historians who bring the village to life.

Open to explore in the village is a blacksmith, shoe shop, bank, sawmill and, of course, homes.

Each building is appropriately furnished and decorated to reflect the time.

There are also many animals living in the village. As part of the village reflects a working farm, expect to see heritage breed cows, pigs and chickens.

Driving from Worcester to Old Sturbridge Village covers 21.8 miles (35 kilometres) and takes approximately 25 minutes.

Springfield is a must-visit stop to explore on your Boston to Washington D.C. road trip if you or a travelling companion are a basketball fan.

Springfield is known as the City of Firsts, and it was here that basketball was first invented.

Head to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

This museum honours James Naismith, a PE teacher who created the game of basketball, and legendary players, coaches and teams.

Within the Hall of Fame, expect to see interactive exhibits such as shooting games and memorabilia from basketball history.

Stop by the Dr Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden to relive childhood memories by reading the author’s famous books.

Five bronze sculptures within the garden reflect the author and some of his characters.

Driving from Old Sturbridge Village to Springfield covers 37.2 miles (59.86 kilometres) and takes approximately 40 minutes.

Recommended tour: Springfield Showdown Scavenger Hunt.

Stafford Motor Speedway makes for a great stopping destination on your road trip from Boston to Washington D.C., particularly if you arrive on a race day.

The track consists of a semi-banked oval track covering 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometres).

Stafford is the home of the SK Modified races, which feature heavily modified cars.

While Stafford is no longer part of NASCAR, it still shows adrenaline-fuelled races both in person and through a streaming service.

The race season runs from April to September, with most events on Fridays.

Driving from Springfield to Stafford Motor Speedway covers 21.1 miles (33.95 kilometres) and takes approximately 35 minutes.

You’ll need a few days to explore New York City.

This sprawling metropolis will certainly leave you wanting more than the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Check out the incredible views over the New York City skyline at night and during the day and discover the stories of the millions of immigrants who arrived in the United States through this corridor.

Explore the beauty of New York from above and walk along The High Line ; the former section of the elevated railway has been transformed into a garden and pedestrian walkway.

While in New York, seek out some bagels ( you might enjoy this New York City bagel tour ).

A great New York bagel has a firm golden crust and a soft yet chewy centre. Order plain, with toppings, or packed with smoked salmon and cream cheese or pastrami.

Driving from Stafford Motor Speedway to New York City covers 143 miles (230.13 kilometres) and takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes.

Recommended tour: New York CityPASS .

Take a short drive from New York to explore the state of New Jersey, beginning with Newark.

Newark offers one of the best opportunities to see the full Manhattan skyline.

Visit Newark Riverfront Park for the perfect photo, particularly at night as the building’s lights are reflected over the Hudson River.

If you are visiting in the summer, sample some authentic Italian gelato at Nasto’s. This family-ran Gelateria has been open since 1939 and also serves the best tiramisu and tartufo.

Branch Brook Park is a great natural escape after exploring several cities.

It’s a great spot to take the time to relax and unwind as you stroll by the water’s edge or, if visiting in April, below the delicate pink cherry blossoms.

Driving from New York City to Newark covers 10.5 miles (16.89 kilometres) and takes approximately 25 minutes.

Allentown is the ideal location for a short stop on your road trip.

This quaint historical village is packed with stores, restaurants offering delicious lunches and dinners, and beautiful architecture.

Explore the town on foot taking in its history.

The town was a key strategic location during the Revolutionary War and the battle for the Delaware River.

Explore The Old Burial Ground, where many gravestones date back to this time.

Driving from Newark to Allentown covers 49.2 miles (79.17 kilometres) and takes approximately 50 minutes.

Trenton is New Jersey’s capital and a great destination to spend a day or two on your Boston to Miami road trip.

Pay a visit to the New Jersey Statehouse, designed by Jonathan Done in 1792.

When inside the statehouse, be sure to look up. The painted ceiling room features a staggering depiction of the history of New Jersey in incredibly intricate artistic detail.

Step back in time at the Old Barracks Museum, originally built to house British soldiers during the French and Indian war and later served as a military hospital.

It is the last remaining British barracks in the USA.

Driving from Allentown to Trenton covers 13.1 miles (21.08 kilometres) and takes approximately 15 minutes.

Round off your time in New Jersey by spending a couple of days in Atlantic City.

Well known for its casinos, the city also has inviting beaches and an excellent boardwalk.

The Boardwalk is a great place to start your time in Atlantic City. There are many shops and restaurants and unrivalled views across the ocean.

If you fancy a game of chance, head to Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa.

This golden-clad hotel has a casino floor packed with machines, table games and more to keep you entertained, while its hotel rooms all have floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views.

Driving from Trenton to Atlantic City covers 90.7 miles (145.96 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Explore the historical city of Philadelphia on a themed walking tour to absorb as much history and knowledge as possible.

Your guides take you to important historical sites and share some of the greatest tales in American history.

Pose for an Instagram photo by the LOVE sign, a popular typography-based sculpture designed by Robert Indiana and located in John F. Kennedy Plaza.

Join a food tour that will take you to Reading Terminal Market.

This marketplace is one of the oldest farmer’s markets in America. It is packed with stalls selling everything from fresh vegetables to piping hot dishes, including their famous hot roast pork sandwiches.

If you’re planning on staying over, here are some things to do in Philadelphia at night .

Driving from Atlantic City to Philadelphia covers 61.8 miles (99.45 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour.

Recommended tour: Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour .

Wilmington is a great place to spend a day on your road trip to Washington D.C.

A must-visit destination in Wilmington is the French chateau-style Nemours Mansion and Garden.

This sprawling abode was once the home of the DuPont Family. The rooms are richly decorated and attractively furnished.

If nature is more your cup of tea, visit the DuPont Environmental Education Centre.

The centre is surrounded by 200 acres of natural and undisturbed marshland and gardens.

The centre is free to visit and is a great destination for families, with interactive exhibits and many pathways leading around the grounds.

Driving from Philadelphia to Wilmington covers 31.1 miles (50.05 kilometres) and takes approximately 35 minutes.

Recommended tour: Half-Day E-Bike Tour of Wilmington’s History, Haunts & Breweries

Susquehanna State Park offers the ideal natural escape on your road trip.

Shut out the noise of the traffic or the bustle of the cities visited prior and immerse yourself in the woodlands.

The park runs alongside the Susquehanna River. It is formed of dense, thick forests filled with hiking and cycling trails.

There are also fishing piers and launches to access the river.

Camping is available with campsites kitted out with electricity and restroom facilities, all sporting hot running water.

Driving from Wilmington to Susquehanna State Park covers 40 miles (64.37 kilometres) and takes approximately 40 minutes.

Cross back into Pennsylvania to explore the historic city of Gettysburg, famous for the Gettysburg National Battlefield.

Head to the battlefield to explore either independently with the help of an interactive iPad tour or book one of their guide-led tours.

The battlefield is vast and is dotted with artefacts from the American Civil War, including cannons.

Keeping history at the forefront of your visit, venture into the city and visit some available period dining options.

Farnsworth House offers a Civil War-era atmosphere paired with unique dishes from the time.

Driving from Susquehanna State Park to Gettysburg covers 90.7 miles (145.96 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Recommended tour: 2-Hour Gettysburg Battlefield Guided History Bus Tour with a National Park Guide

Another opportunity to explore nature on your road trip comes from Catoctin Mountain Park.

The mountain park has a visitor centre that provides maps, guidebooks and restroom facilities.

From here, venture out onto one of the park’s 25 miles (40.23 kilometres) of hiking trails.

The trails vary in difficulty allowing you to choose the best one for you and your travel companions.

If you fancy spending the night here, there are camping spots available and a number of historic wood cabins.

Driving from Gettysburg to Catoctin Mountain Park covers 23.7 miles (38.14 kilometres) and takes approximately 25 minutes.

Get back into the city and explore Baltimore, where an excellent restaurant scene is set among historical and modern buildings.

If art interests you, a must-visit spot in Baltimore is the Baltimore Museum of Art, which houses the world’s largest collection of Matisse paintings.

Crabs are a local delicacy in Baltimore, with the best being served at LP Steamers. This crab shack offers crab and other seafood steamed and flavoured to perfection.

For impressive views over the city, particularly at sunset, climb the 227 marble steps of the Washington Monument at Mount Vernon Place.

Driving from Catoctin Mountain Park to Baltimore covers 69.7 miles (112.17 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Recommended tour: Signature Spirit of Baltimore Lunch Cruise with Buffet

Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and is filled with beautiful pastel buildings, 18th-century homes, and an excellent waterfront.

Annapolis is the home to the U.S. Naval Academy.

Its campus buildings are open to the public on guided tours.

Visit the iconic dome chapel to see the ornately decorated crypt of U.S. Navy father John Paul Jones.

For a unique breakfast experience, visit Chick & Ruth’s Delly.

If you visit at 8.30 am during the week or 9.30 am at weekends, enjoy your breakfast and join in with the daily Pledge of Allegiance.

Try their famous Delly potatoes that can be added to your breakfast dish.

Driving from Baltimore to Annapolis covers 32.4 miles (52.14 kilometres) and takes approximately 35 minutes.

End your road trip in U.S. capital, Washington D.C.. Washington D.C. is filled with political landmarks and history, however, there is so much more to the city.

For some tranquillity, visit Rock Creek Park.

This 1754-acre patch of green is a great place to get back to nature, with 32 miles (51.5 kilometres) of hiking trails to discover either with maps or on a guided tour.

Immerse yourself in modern art at the Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, which was built to house Joseph Hirshhorn’s large collection of 20th-century art and sculptures.

Look for Yoko Ono’s ‘A Wish Tree for Washington D.C.’ to tell your secrets.

Driving from Annapolis to Washington D.C. covers 31.9 miles (51.34 kilometres) and takes approximately 40 minutes. 

Recommended tour: Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley

Looking for a road trip? Here are some epic driving vacations.

• Canada Road Trip
• Driving The Icefields Parkway
• Andalucia Road Trip
• Queensland Road Trip
• Argentina Road Trip
• Tasmania Road Trip 
• Cambodia Road Trip
• Nashville to Memphis Drive
• Dallas to Austin Drive
• Houston to Miami Road Trip
• Boston to Miami Road Trip
• Boston to Washington DC Road Trip
• Boston to New York Road Trip
• Boston to San Francisco Road Trip
• Boston to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Miami to Atlanta Road Trip
• Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Road Trip
• San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
• San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip
• San Diego to San Francisco Road Trip
• Las Vegas to Zion National Park Drive
• San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Drive
• Chicago to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Phoenix to San Francisco Road Trip
• Vancouver to Seattle Road Trip
• Houston to Denver Road Trip
• Montreal to New York Road Trip
• Houston to Los Angeles Road Trip
• New York to San Francisco Road Trip
• Toronto to Vancouver Road Trip
• Houston to New Orleans Road Trip
• Tucson to Phoenix Road Trip

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

Editor's Picks

44 landmarks in europe, 25 australian landmarks, 101 sunset captions and quotes, more about usa, 20 things to do in hawaii at night, 20 things to do in boston at night, glamping in georgia, 20 places to go glamping in texas, glamping in colorado.

Road Trip From Boston To Washington DC

If you want to experience the beauty of the USA's east coast, taking a road trip from Boston to Washington, DC is the perfect way to do it.

While you can most certainly find flights that go from Boston to Washington, DC, many of them direct flights, going by car will allow you to experience the beauty of the east coast close up. You'll also have plenty more opportunities to get out and explore as you go on your journey.

The road trip from Boston to Washington, DC will be about 440 miles and take a little over 7 hours following the I-95 S. Doable in a day, you might want to break it up into 2 to 3 and take in the cities and sights on the way down.

If you're thinking about taking this amazing east coast journey, here are some ideas to make your trip one of a kind.

How Far is Washington, DC from Boston and How Long Will the Road Trip Take?

If you're planning on driving straight from Boston to Washington, DC with no stops, expect to spend about 7 hours and 15 minutes on the road. This will be without accounting for things like bathroom breaks, gas, and meals.

If you're leaving Boston during rush hour or on a weekend, expect things to t.ake longer as you deal with other drivers in the city preparing to leave for the weekend. The same is true for the other cities you'll be passing through, like New York and Baltimore.

Depending on the times you reach and leave these cities, you might need to add an hour or two to your travel time.

It's definitely feasible to drive from Boston to Washington, DC in one go, but you'd unfortunately have to miss out on some of the amazing historical sites and landmarks you'd be passing. Instead, think about breaking the trip up into 2 or 3 separate days to take advantage of your time on the road.

Best Road Trip Route from Boston to Washington, DC

There are a few different options for potential routes for this road trip, but the best one will take you along the coast, passing through New York City, Philadelphia, and Baltimore before reaching Washington.

You'll have plenty of opportunities to check out the beauty of the east coast. And depending on how much time you have, there are several interesting detours you might want to make along the way.

Road Trip Route from Boston to Washington, DC

The route from Boston to Washington, DC Is pretty straightforward. Leave Boston by taking the I-93 S, taking the I-90 until you reach the exit for Hartford, Connecticut/New York City. Once you pass through New York, you'll follow the I-95 until you reach the MD-295, which you'll take the rest of the way to Washington.

Best Places to Stop Between Boston and Washington, DC

To take advantage of your road trip, you'll want to stop in some of the cities you're passing. Here are a few places you might want to consider stopping in, and some great options when it comes to choosing a place to stay.

Explore New York

Frankly, checking out everything New York City has to offer could be a separate trip all on its own! But even though you'll just be passing through Manhattan, there are still plenty of things to get out and see in the area.

Check out the breathtaking Grand Central Station, the stunning Morgan Library, and get the most picturesque view of the city from Top of the Rock on top of the Rockefeller Center. If you love people watching, make sure to pay a visit to the iconic Times Square, and for a bit of nature stop by Central Park.

For more options and to learn more about the other areas in New York City where you can stay, please check our detailed guide below:

READ MORE - Our Area-by-Area Guide to NYC

See the past in Philadelphia

If you're interested in the United States' rich history, it's worth stopping in Philadelphia to see some of the country's most fascinating historic sites. Book a room at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia and enjoy the stately rooms, fitness center, and rooftop lounge.

The hotel is very close to Philadelphia's Independence Hall, where in 1776 the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. Also close by is the Liberty Bell, which you can see from the rooftop lounge.

While you're in Philadelphia, remember to visit the museums located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. When you get hungry, visit the Reading Terminal Market, an old railroad terminal that now houses dozens of food vendors.

Things to See on a Road Trip from Boston to Washington, DC

Between the stunning visuals of the east coast route you're taking and the incredible historic sites and monuments you'll get to visit in the cities you're passing through, there's no shortage of things to stop and see as you travel from Boston to Washington, DC.

Here are just a few things you might want to consider checking out on your journey.

• Worcester: You'll be passing by this city as you drive through Massachusetts, so why not stop by? A visit to the Worcester Art Museum will allow you to see old Roman mosaics, medieval armor, and impressionist paintings.
• Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park: Spanning 9,000 acres, stopping at Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park will allow you plenty of opportunities for some time in nature if you're getting sick of city life. Go fishing, hiking, and boating through this beautiful forest.
• Stafford Motor Speedway: Located in Stafford Springs, Connecticut, the Stafford Motor Speedway is a NASCAR racetrack. If you plan on taking this road trip between May and September, visit this racetrack on a Friday night for the track's weekly race.
• Hartford: As you drive through Connecticut, stop in at Hartford to visit the Mark Twain House and Museum, the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, and catch a show at the Bushnell Center for Performing Arts
• Long Island Sound: Approaching New York, you'll find yourself driving close to the Long Island Sound, a tidal estuary between Connecticut and New York. Make sure that you remember to pack your camera for this trip so you can take pictures of the incredible coastal views. If you're extra keen, hop on a ferry across to Long Island and check out the North Fork wineries!
• White Clay Creek State Park: Whether you're interested in fishing, hiking, or mountain biking, White Clay Creek State Park will have plenty of opportunities for you. Remember to also check out the Judge Morris Estate, a historic house in the park with private tours available.
• Elk Neck State Park: This state park at the south end of the Elk Neck Peninsula is made up of 2,370 acres of land, and features varying landscapes. Spend some time in the thickly forested areas of the park, picturesque shorelines, and white clay cliffs. Remember to visit the Turkey Point Lighthouse while you're exploring.
• Susquehanna State Park: Located on the bank of the Susquehanna River, consider stopping at this beautiful state park for some hiking, camping, or a visit to the Carter-Archer Mansion, former home of mill owner John Archer.
• Baltimore: A stop in Baltimore will allow you to explore the city where “The Star-Spangled Banner” was born. Remember to also visit Baltimore's Inner Harbor, where you can the National Aquarium and the USS Constellation, a warship from the civil-war era.
• Washington, DC: Of course this list wouldn't be complete without the destination in mind. Washington, DC is home to many incredible historic monuments, including the White House, the Capitol, and the Supreme Court.

Best Time to Go on a Road Trip from Boston to Washington, DC

The weather along the northeast coast of the United States can fluctuate a lot throughout the year. Summers can be swelteringly hot, sometimes reaching the high 80s in July and August, and in winter the temperature often dips below 0°F.

If you decide to go during the summer months, know that this is a popular time for other tourists to visit Washington, DC. You'll want to keep this in mind if you're also planning to visit some of the other cities and state parks along the way since they will likely be busy and hot.

Likewise, in winter many of the parks might be closed, and even though crowds will be fewer, you might feel pretty miserable exploring in the cold. Snowstorms are pretty common for the area this time of year, so you'll want to avoid going during the winter.

If you're looking to experience some milder weather while also avoiding large crowds, going during spring or fall would be your best bet. In the spring, you'll have the opportunity to check out the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC, which occurs at the end of March going into early April.

You'll find the city busy during the festival, but watching the city turn to hues of pink will be well worth it.

During the fall, you'll enjoy milder weather and far fewer other tourists in the city. The National Mall which features the Washington Monument will be particularly lovely this time of year. Plus, if you take your road trip in September, you'll still have the chance to watch the races at the Stafford Motor Speedway if that's something you're interested in!

No matter what time of year you go, the many cities you'll stop in will provide you with incredibly rich dives into culture and history. With the added national parks sprinkled in along the way, you'll be getting a healthy mix of city life and nature with this road trip.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

The Open Road Travel

• May 19, 2022

Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

A road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston takes you from the capital of the United States to one of its oldest cities.

A 440 mile road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston will take you through the states of Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, past some of the most historic, iconic locations in the United States.

Read on to uncover all the highlights that await you on this incredible journey through the northeast United States.

A Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston: How Far Is It, How Long Will It Take To Get There & What Is The Best Route?

A road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston covers 440 miles (708 kilometres) and takes around 7 hours to complete. It is a relatively straightforward journey that passes through almost all of the most famous cities in the region.

You begin by joining the Capital Beltway at your nearest point and heading north to Exit 27, where you will continue north on the I-95. You’ll stay on this until you cross the George Washington Bridge and pass into New York City.

Once you’ve crossed the Alexander Hamilton Bridge and entered The Bronx, take Exit 1 C-D then Exit C to continue going north, this time on the I-87. At Exit 8, take I-287 east for 7 miles, then use Exit 9N to start heading north again, this time on the Hutchinson River Parkway.

After passing into Connecticut, you will find yourself on Connecticut Route 15. You’ll then remain on this for its 83.5-mile duration, before merging onto the I-84 in East Hartford.

Follow the I-84 to its conclusion in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, where you’ll merge onto the I-90, which takes you the remaining 60 miles, to your destination of Boston.

Best Time For A Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston

There are two periods that could be considered the best time for a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston. Which one you choose will depend on the purpose of your journey.

Late-April to the end June is the best choice for the majority of people, as it offers some of the best temperatures either your route or destination will see all year.

It is also when the city of Boston hosts perhaps its most famous event, the Boston Marathon, which is held on the 3rd Monday in April.

The other great option you have for a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston is in the build-up to Halloween, from mid to late October.

This is because our route passes near two of the best places to spend Halloween in the entire United States , Salem, Massachusetts and Sleepy Hollow, New York.

Best Places To Stop On A Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston

At 7 hours long, a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston could be completed in a single day by many people. However, most will want to break it up, to ensure they have plenty of time to relax and see all of the incredible sights that await them along the way.

While you have a number of fabulous options on this route, the following two choices are what we feel to be the best places to stop on a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston, as they offer the best combination of amenities and attractions, both in terms of quality and quantity.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in the United States, as well as its 6th most populous.

Founded in 1682 by writer William Penn, it is filled with a number of the country’s most important historical attractions, many of which are located in Independence National Historical Park.

Throughout Independence National Historical Park, you will find sites such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the First Bank Of The United States. These sights hold incredible significance, as they were where both the Declaration Of Independence and American Constitution were adopted.

Affectionately nicknamed the “City Of Brotherly Love”, there is plenty besides history to entertain visitors as well.

With an abundance of entertainment, leisure, and sporting attractions, while being a major hub for a range of industries, such as transport, there is plenty for everyone on offer in Philly.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Philadelphia – Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia, An IHG Hotel

The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia is a stunning, 4-star hotel, located right on the edge of Independence National Historical Park. A pet friendly hotel, it features the perfect combination of historical style and modern convenience.

All of the rooms boast exquisite décor, luxury furnishings, and stunning views, while amenities like a flat screen TV, well stocked minibar, hairdryer, and bathrobe help to complete the most comfortable experience possible. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the property.

The Red Owl Tavern restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day, while brunch is offered on weekends. You also have the Stratus Rooftop Lounge, which serves handcrafted cocktails in an environment that features a cosy fireplace and a stunning view of the city and Liberty Bell.

Other facilities available at the property include business and fitness centres, a 24 hour front desk, an ATM, and complimentary bicycle rentals. Private on-site parking is also available for an extra fee.

New York City, New York

New York City is perhaps the most famous city in the world, as well as the most populous in the United States.

The amazing contrast of its iconic skyscrapers and famous locations to more natural beauty spots, such as Central Park and Coney Island, make it a city that has something for everyone.

Obvious attractions like the Empire State Building, Statue Of Liberty, Times Square, and Grand Central Station are must visit sites during your stay in New York. You can even take boat, bus, or helicopter tours to see and learn about them from a different perspective.

You then have some slightly lesser known gems to enjoy as well, ranging from the many museums and galleries dotted about the city, to its collection of legendary bridges and neighbourhoods , which all offer a perfect cultural stop and photo opportunity.

With countless 5-star hotels, designer stores, gourmet restaurants, and legendary sites, New York City is the perfect place to combine style, relaxation, and tourism in a single destination.

Best Hotel To Stay At In New York City – The Plaza

The Plaza is a legendary, 5-star hotel, situated on the southern edge of Central Park. The amazing views of the park on offer from both the communal areas, as well as many of the rooms, plus its location at the heart of Manhattan, make it the epitome of both comfort and convenience.

All of the exquisitely designed rooms are spacious and boast a range of amenities like iPads, flat screen TVs, rain showers, 24-karat gold plated fixtures, and Wi-Fi that is available throughout the hotel. This will ensure you remain entertained and connected for the duration of your stay.

The Plaza also features a collection of its own shops, restaurants, and bars, ensuring you never need for anything during your visit. There is even a gym, spa, and salon, so you have options whether you want to work out or be relaxed and pampered.

Film buffs will even enjoy the fact that The Plaza has been used as a shooting location in some major Hollywood films, such as the iconic Home Alone 2: Lost In New York.

Top Attractions On A Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston

With at least 7 hours driving on a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston, it is important to make plenty of stops along the way, to break up the driving and truly make the most of this beautiful, historic part of the country.

While the full range of attractions on offer is far too great to count, we will now take a look at what we feel are the top attractions on a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston, to help you plan your perfect travel itinerary and truly get the most out of your trip.

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore is the most populous city in Maryland, as well as the largest independent city in the entire United States. One of the nation’s most historically important transport hubs, The Port Of Baltimore is perhaps the first stop those interested in the city’s history should make.

Founded in 1706, it was essential for importing goods from Europe to the Americas in the early years of the U.S. and is still the country’s largest port specialising in passenger and cargo facilities. If that isn’t enough, you also have a number of other historic locations to explore.

There is the eastern terminus of the Baltimore And Ohio Railroad, the oldest in the country, having opened in 1830.

Then there is the location where “The Star-Spangled Banner” was written and a number of locations where important events during the Civil and Revolutionary wars took place.

Susquehanna State Park

Susquehanna State Park is set on the west bank of the longest river in the eastern United States, the Susquehanna River, which flows for 444 miles (715 kilometres), from Cooperstown, New York, to Havre De Grace, Maryland.

Throughout the park are trails, which provide breathtaking views of the river and the valleys that surround it. It is an incredibly popular destination for a host of activities, including biking, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, anSusd horse riding.

Susquehanna State Park even boasts a collection of historic sites as well.

The Rock Run Grist Mill and Carter-Archer Mansion are among the most historically important sites in the region for milling. Then there is the Steppingstone Museum, which features an incredible range of historic arts and crafts from the area.

Wilmington, Delaware

Delaware’s largest, most populous city, Wilmington was settled in 1638 on the site of the former Fort Christina, the oldest Swedish settlement in the U.S. Attractions like the Old Swedes Church offer an insight into this period unlike anything else you will find in America.

Wilmington is also a city synonymous with one of America’s richest families, the Du Pont Family.

Having risen to prominence in the 1700s, sites like the DuPont Building, DuPont Gunpowder Works, DuPont Family home, and Hagley Museum contain a range of artefacts, exhibits, and sites which demonstrate the family’s importance and evolution through the ages.

Newark, New Jersey

New Jersey’s most populous city, Newark is a part of the New York Metropolitan Area and a major transport hub, boasting air, rail, and sea terminals. It is most commonly visited by those coming to New York City, as there are often much better deals on transport to be had here.

However, while often overlooked, Newark has plenty of historic sites in its own right, as it is one of the oldest cities in the country, having been settled in 1666.

With options like the Cathedral Basilica Of The Sacred Heart, Mount Olive AME Church, Newark Museum Of Art, Jewish Museum Of New Jersey, Justice Sculpture, Branch Brook Park, and Dock Bridge, there are plenty of reasons to stop in Newark for people of all tastes and interests.

Sleepy Hollow, New York

Sleepy Hollow is a small town in the Hudson Valley that gained infamy as the main location in the Washington Irving horror novel “The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow”. Since then, it has developed a reputation as a popular destination for fans of horror and the supernatural.

Listed among America’s most haunted towns, Sleepy Hollow boasts a collection of creepy attractions dedicated to all things spooky and supernatural.

A great opportunity for fright fans, particularly near Halloween, Washington Irving is even buried here, making it a pilgrimage of sorts for his fans.

Hartford, Connecticut

Connecticut’s capital city and one of the oldest in the U.S., having been founded in 1635, Hartford is a city centred around history.

Locations like the United States’ oldest public park, public art museum, and continuously published newspaper are ideal for those interested in the growth of the nation. Other popular attractions in Hartford include the Connecticut State Capitol building.

Designed in a combination of Eastlake Movement, Renaissance Revival, and Victorian Gothic styles, and boasting a gold domed spire, it was built in the 1870s and is among of the most iconic capitols in the U.S.

You even have the Mark Twain House; a museum dedicated to the legendary writer’s life and works. Set in the house where he wrote many of his famous pieces, it is any literary fan’s dream destination.

A road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston is a fabulous journey across the north-eastern corner of the United States. With its historic towns and stunning landscapes, it is a dream trip for anyone interested in American history or nature.

You should now have a good idea of everything you will see along the way, from amazing attractions to places to make a longer stop. This should allow you to plan the perfect travel itinerary to ensure your own trip truly is the journey of your dreams.

All you have left is to plan when to take your trip and how long you are going to spend making it. That way, you can start getting everything booked and begin looking forward to experiencing everything you have read about for yourself, as soon as possible.

• World Traveller Guide
• Road Trip Guides
• Guide To North America

Recent Posts

The 10 Best Things To Do In Washington D.C.

Best Areas To Stay In Washington D.C.

How To Enjoy New York On A Budget (7 Budget Tips For New York City)

• Washington DC Tourism
• Washington DC Hotels
• Washington DC Bed and Breakfast
• Washington DC Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Washington DC
• Washington DC Restaurants
• Things to Do in Washington DC
• Washington DC Travel Forum
• Washington DC Photos
• Washington DC Map
• All Washington DC Hotels
• Washington DC Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Washington DC
• Washington DC
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Itinerary suggestions for Boston to Washington DC Road Trip? - Washington DC Forum

• United States    
• District of Columbia (DC)    
• Washington DC    

Itinerary suggestions for Boston to Washington DC Road Trip?

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• District of Columbia forums
• Washington DC forum

Do you have any itinerary suggestions? What sites are a MUST and which ones should we skip? I know we can't see it all on this trip, but some of the places I would enjoy seeing are: Boston, possibly Cape Cod, Philadelphia , Washington DC (museums and White House ), Williamsburg , and Virginia Beach (the latter 2 only if time permits). I am sure there are several places we should visit in between, but I am not sure which ones to squeeze in on this trip! We will be renting a car , so I would love feedback on the best route to take to visit the recommended destinations.

We are not looking to go to amusement parks on this trip as we will be visiting one in the spring.

Thank you in advance for your ideas and suggestions!

I mean, none of those are skips because they aren’t worth going to... It’s just simply a matter of not enough time forcimf you to cross some places off the list. Lots of those places can soak up half of your trip if not more. Start researching cities, or themes, or iconic images you have in your head of what you’ve always wanted to see. Are you looking for certain history or sites? Have everyone on the trip weigh in on their top places to go to. Every place has its merits, you just need to figure out which ones you want for this trip cuz you can’t do them all.

A big thing if you want to visit those towns is considering if you need the car at all. Between traffic and the cost of parking you may be better off either traveling by train or bus. It'd be a lot easier and maybe even cheaper in some cases.

But, if you want specific towns to check out:

1. Lancaster PA area. Tons of Amish heritage and some old school kitschy attractions as well. Pairs well with a visit to Gettysburg Battlefield.

2. Baltimore gets overlooked a lot but the aquarium is world class.

3. Annapolis MD is lovely. And the whole eastern shore really. And if you stopped by there on the way to the eastern shore that could take you to beach towns over that way rather than Virginia Beach .

4. But if you do want to get to Williamsburg/Va Beach then Richmond has tons of history and I think it's also underrated.

Given your interest in 10 days (+/-) touring historical sites in Boston , possibly Cape Cod, Philadelphia , Washington DC (museums and White House ), Williamsburg (you have omitted NYC), you might consider (by day):

1 Arrive Boston; explore

2. Tour Boston itself

3. Tour Boston North Shore

PHILADELPHIA (CONSIDER SKIPPING--REDUCE LOGISTICS--IF SO, ALLOCATE DAY TO DC or WILLIAMSBURG--THERE IS BEACH NEAR WILLIAMSBURG/JAMESTOWN)

4. Train to Philadelphia; tour Philadelphia;

5. Train to DC; tour DC

WILLIAMSBURG

8. Drive to Williamsburg; tour Williamsburg.

9. Experience Williamsburg and Jamestown

10. Experience Williamsburg; return car ; depart.

When you decide on the days/locations, please post separately and contributors can offer further suggestions. .

It sounds like a great trip!

Mom: Let us know what you decide.

Hi Mom of two!

We are doing an East Coast Road trip. Here's what we picked:

Fly in to DCA

5 nights at the Westin Georgetown (secured tours Capital & Mint; pending WH)

Pick up car in Georgetown, drive to Philadelphia. Have 4pm tour for Inependence Hall Tour booked

Return Car in Midtown East, in New York .

3 nights NYC, Statue of Liberty with Crown Tour booked

Fly out of EWR.

In planning this trip we found the hotel rates in DC markedly more affordable than NYC. Our 3 night NYC hotel stay is 2.3 x the cost of our 5 night Georgetown hotel stay. We booked two rooms through Priceline Express. So perhaps cost of stay might factor in to your decision.

Re: post 7.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Which Marriott property? 4:58 pm
• Hotel choice 4:57 pm
• Suggestions for an itenarary and travel options 3:19 pm
• Driving and parking in DC 11:16 am
• Dulles airport customs 11:13 am
• Best Bars in Washington DC 10:39 am
• Things to do for a disabled person 10:04 am
• Formal Dining Experience yesterday
• Baseball yesterday
• DC to Shenandoah NP driving day trip. yesterday
• Help with putting together the schedule with reservations yesterday
• Things to do for disabled Apr 29, 2024
• Residence Inn Rosslyn or Residence Inn Dupont Circle? Apr 29, 2024
• Calendar of big events (political/conferences)? Apr 29, 2024
• Best area to stay. 14 replies
• how to get...Reagan National (DCA) to Dulles I(AID) 26 replies
• Safe Places To Stay In The Washington DC Area 10 replies
• Beaches near Washington DC 4 replies
• How far to drive from DC to Williamsburg 4 replies
• Best time to visit DC? 8 replies
• hotels on Metro Line 8 replies
• Hop on hop off tour 8 replies
• Safe areas to stay in Washington DC 40 replies
• Parking lots near Lincoln Memorial? Smithsonian? 11 replies

Washington DC Hotels and Places to Stay

• How do I get to DC from the airport (BWI, DCA, IAD)?
• How to use Metro---Helpful links from Metro's website
• BEFORE YOU POST A HOTEL REQUEST, PLEASE READ THIS CAREFULLY!
• Proper Metrorail Etiquette---What should I know before using Metrorail?
• Which Area should I stay in when visiting DC?
• How to get tickets for the African American Museum of History and Culture
• DC's Hidden Gems for Tourists
• Washington DC hotels with swimming pools
• How do you get to Mt. Vernon if not by car?
• DITCH THE VALET: Affordable Parking Options for under $10/nt
• DC Trip Reports
• How to Request a White House Tour as a Foreign Visitor - 2019

Adventures of the 4 JLs

Join our family as we explore the world.

Summer Road Trip from Boston to DC

On an extended weekend in July, we decided to take a family road trip to Washington, DC .

Coming from Greater Boston , the drive isn’t short (8-9 hours; about 440 miles), but there are many places along the way with which to break it up – including cities like New York , Philly , and Baltimore. Just keep in mind that extra traffic can make your drive longer than expected! Highlights of our particular trip included many of the Smithsonian Museums , a few other museums and galleries, lot of National Monuments and Memorials , a stop to see the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, as well as a stop at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey .

Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey

Our first intended destination was the Six Flags Great Adventure amusement park for the birthday of one of our kids, covid concerns aside. This park currently has the world’s tallest roller coaster, which is a positive for a pair of teen boys.

We left the Boston area late afternoon on Wednesday, with the goal of getting past New York City and its associated metro traffic the following morning. NYC itself is about a 4 hour drive from Boston , so we found a hotel maybe 4.5 hours from our house, near the freeway in New Jersey that was roughly an hour from the theme park. The evening drive was uneventful, getting in around 9-10pm. Then the next morning, after our hotel breakfast, we drove the remaining hour to the amusement park , making sure we were there 30 minutes before the park opening time.

Lines were short, particularly in the morning, the boys had tons of fun, and we ended up not getting sick, so all-in-all, it ended up working out. You can read about our full experience on an earlier post !

After leaving the amusement park, we drove a bit further south, staying the night in the Cherry Hill, NJ area, relatively close to Philadelphia .

Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Philadelphia

Our hotel choice set us up for an easy 30 minute drive into Philadelphia . We parked near the Independence Visitor Center, then walked to the Liberty Bell Center.

The Liberty Bell Center is quite fascinating!

In addition to learning about the making of the bell and problems with its construction, you will also learn about its fascinating roll in both the abolitionist movement and the women’s suffrage movement.

With an inscription like “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof,” you can probably guess some of the purposes that various groups assigned to this bell!

After visiting the Liberty Bell, we moved on to Independence Hall . Unfortunately, Independence Hall now requires advance reservations to enter, so we snapped a picture told the boys that this was where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed, and showed them the picture of the building on the matching bill.

It was a fun stop, and while there are many more sights to see in Philadelphia , our goal was Washington, D.C. , so we did a quick walking tour of the area, then hopped into the car and continued our drive.

Along the way, we did stop for quick bite to eat in Delaware, since our kids hadn’t technically been in the state of Delaware yet (though that visit probably only marginally counts).

Suburban Air and Space Museum

When we into the D.C. metro area around 2-3pm, we went to the suburban National Air and Space Museum, Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia (different from the Air and Space Museum along the National Mall in DC), which was a great visit for our airplane enthusiast son. It has more space for larger exhibits, and we hadn’t seen it before.

First Evening in Washington, DC.

When we arrived inside Washington, DC , around 5pm, we checked into the Downtown Residence Inn . If you plan to do most of your travel by foot, our recommendation is to stay as close to the National Mall and other points of interest as possible. Distances are deceiving and you will get tired quickly if you try to walk too far. Our experience has been that hotels near the White House have been both convenient and not as expensive as some of the other hotels in downtown Washington, DC.

We rested for a bit, then decided to head out for dinner and a walk on the National Mall .

After making a stop by the White House, we made a detour into Chinatown for dinner. While we enjoyed our meal, we had order a 4 person family special and ended up with way too much food. Slightly unfortunate, but it was tasty.

Washington Monument to Lincoln Memorial

From there, we walked to the National Mall where we got a distant view of the Capitol Building. Not wanting to exhaust ourselves, we decided not to walk the entire mall, but instead chose a small portion of it that included the Washington Monument, the WWII Memorial, the Reflecting Pool, Lincoln’s Memorial, and the Vietnam War Memorial.

On our way back to our hotel, a bunch of the streets were blocked off by the police and were being guarded by helicopters. After observing for a while, our conclusion was that President Biden was likely getting into his own helicopter and making his way to the airport or some other destination.

At this point, an Uber or taxi back to our hotel might have been nice, but since we were in Covid times and felt like we had taken enough risks with our amusement park adventure, we decided to exercise our legs and walk back to the hotel.

First Full Day in Washington, DC

On our family’s first full day in Washington, DC , we decided to visit two museums: the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History . It was a lot of fun, but also a lot of museum. Keep in mind that in the summer, it can be hot outside in DC, and air-conditioned museum can make the heat of the day much more pleasant. In any case, figure out how much time you want to spend exploring museums, and pick your activities based on that.

Before going, check the current rules/hours and be aware that they might change with little notice – when we first thought of the trip, timed reservations were required, but a few days before the trip, they got rid of that requirement.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The main reason people go to the Natural History Museum is to see the dinosaurs. They have a very impressive collection of dinosaur bones, not as impressive as some in the American West, but still very nice.

In addition to dinosaurs, there are also nice exhibits on human origins, mammals, ocean creatures, geology, and more!

After visiting the amazing Natural History Museum , we got a predictably mediocre lunch in the museum cafe, but we were sufficiently hungry that it didn’t seem to matter.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

From there, we continued onto the American History Museum , which was quite nice if you found the right exhibits.

The transportation exhibit is quite impressive and is sure to delight toddlers, teens, and grandparents!

If war history piques your interest, then you can spend quite a bit of time exploring exhibits on the Revolutionary War, Civil War, World Wars, and more!

James really liked seeing the original U.S. flag that inspired the Star Spangled Banner. You can also find exhibits on technology, everyday life, and more!

Korean Memorial to the Jefferson Memorial

We went back to the hotel for an afternoon siesta, and then at dinner time we decided to head out and see a few more sights in the National Mall . If you are in Washington, DC , for multiple days, it really is best to avoid seeing all of the National Monuments and Memorials in one day. In the heat of the summer, this area is nicest in the early morning and evening, so take your time exploring a small section of the National Mall each day.

Having finished the memorials on the north side of the reflecting pool the night before, we set out towards the south side of the reflecting pool. Unfortunately, the Korean War Memorial was under renovation, so that was a bit of a bust.

Continuing further south, we came to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and then the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial.

We eventually made it to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. While the steps were under renovation, the inside was still accessible. While it is a bit out of the way, you can get some nice views of the city from here.

It was starting to rain a bit harder, although really not that bad, so we decided to head directly back to the hotel from here.

Second Full Day in Washington, DC

On our last day in Washington, D.C. , we decided to spend the morning at the National Gallery of Art and the afternoon at the International Spy Museum .

National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art is one of my favorite museums. If you love Western art through the centuries, this is an art gallery for you!

Food Trucks

We decided to try one of the many food trucks along the National Mall for lunch and ate on a park bench.

International Spy Museum

Our next stop was the International Spy Museum (which is a private museum, not a Smithsonian museum), which might have been more fun if it weren’t quite so crowded. Or packed with under-12 unvaccinated kids.

We looked at the displays, and some of the interactive exhibits, which were interesting enough, but it might be better off-peak, whenever that is.

We haven’t taken a ton of Ubers since covid, but we sufficiently tired that we took an Uber back to the hotel. The Metro in DC is decent enough, but the distance between stops can be deceptively far. Plus when traveling with a family of 4, the cost of an Uber is typically not that much more than 4 metro tickets.

Heading Back to Boston

Since Jeremy needed to work on Monday morning, we had planned that Jeremy and James would fly back to Boston on an early morning flight, while John and I drove.

By Sunday late afternoon, we were done with museums and sites, and I still had energy to drive, so John and I decided to leave that evening, and try to just past New York City . The traffic between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore was fairly heavy, though probably less so than on Monday morning – the stretch between DC and NY feels like Greater Los Angeles, where there can always be some traffic somewhere. But in any case, we both converged back to Boston on Monday, following our different paths.

Keep reading our travel blog for more travel itinerary ideas !

Here are some more posts from this trip :

International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C.

Fall Weekend in NYC

Quick Stops: The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall

Monuments and Memorials Located in the National Mall: Washington, D.C.

National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

National Air and Space Museum, Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia

Leave a comment cancel reply.

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

• Book a room

North America

• Albuquerque
• Fort Lauderdale
• Indianapolis
• Los Angeles
• New Orleans

New York City

• Palm Springs

Philadelphia

• Salt Lake City
• San Antonio
• San Francisco
• Santa Monica
• Virginia Beach

Washington, D.C.

Latin america + the caribbean.

• Buenos Aires
• Dominican Republic
• Grand Cayman
• Mexico City
• Panama City
• Puerto Rico
• Puerto Vallarta
• Punta de Mita
• Rio de Janeiro

Asia Pacific

Africa + middle east.

• Johannesburg
• Couples + Family
• Culture + Style
• Eat + Drink
• Health + Fitness
• Tips + Trends

Find scenic streets and historic gems like Elfreth’s Alley in Philadelphia. (Photo: Getty Images)

A History Buff’s Ultimate Trip (by Train, Plane or Car) from Boston to D.C.

Major cities of the Northeast — and all the rich history they contain — are more connected than ever before. Choose between fast and reliable train service, a quick flight or a scenic drive, and get to exploring the artistic, political and historical landmarks of Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

Here are a few ideas of what to see in each city.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trips.

History from the American Revolution to the tumultuous 1960s can be discovered in Boston . Start at the Paul Revere House , a Colonial home built in 1680 where the American Patriot lived. Then fast-forward several centuries to learn about the 35th president of the United States at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum .

Art and architecture fans won’t want to miss the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , set in a building inspired by a Venetian palazzo. Once the elegant home of its namesake art collector, it is now a museum filled with paintings and sculptures.

For some fresh air, go for a stroll in the Arnold Arboretum , a 281-acre park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted that is home to a variety of rare plants. Afterward, check out Boston’s vibrant restaurant scene at Fox & the Knife , a rustic Italian restaurant known for excellent cocktails.

In addition to big-name sites like Ellis Island, New York City is also full of historical landmarks in its residential neighborhoods. Located in the heart of Harlem since 1914, the Apollo Theater has hosted musical legends from Billie Holiday to James Brown. Check out the weekly Wednesday Amateur Night to see up-and-coming talent.

Before hipsters moved to the Lower East Side, this neighborhood was home to immigrants from places such as Ireland, Germany and Eastern Europe. Explore The Tenement Museum through a variety of themed tours that bring the immigrant experience to life. On the Upper West Side, the New York Historical Society is a library and museum with themed exhibitions such as “Creating the American Republic.”

For a glimpse into Manhattan’s contemporary side, visit The Edge , the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western atmosphere (it has a glass floor 1,100 feet up).

Afterward, snack your way through Mercado Little Spain , an upscale food hall from Chef José Andrés.

Step back in time in Philadelphia with a stroll down Elfreth’s Alley, the nation’s oldest residential street. The pedestrianized alley, flanked by houses built between 1728 and 1836, is home to the Elfreth’s Alley Museum House .

Learn about the history of the U.S. Constitution at the National Constitution Center , an interactive museum with rare artifacts, hands-on exhibits and live performances. To experience an alternate side of American history, go inside the Eastern State Penitentiary , once the home of notorious criminals such as Al Capone.

Discover Philadelphia through the lens of Benjamin Franklin with the young Ben Franklin Tour . Starting at the Betsy Ross House, this is a walking tour with a twist: a guide who shares history through the art of rap.

When hunger strikes, settle in to Zahav , an Israeli restaurant known for hummus, mezze (small plates) and skewers grilled over charcoal.

After a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Fell’s Point, get to know some of Baltimore’s smaller historic attractions. Sports fans may want to see the Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum , while literature buffs might be drawn toward the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum .

Climb aboard vintage streetcars at the Baltimore Streetcar Museum or visit The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House to hear stories about the women who sewed the American flag that inspired the U.S. National Anthem.

Entry to the Baltimore Museum of Art is free. Stop in to see a collection of 95,000 pieces of art, including the world’s largest holding of works by Henri Matisse.

To sip a cocktail in a historic environment, check out the Owl Bar inside the Belvedere, a hotel that dates back to 1903, and then get a taste of Maryland with a crab pot at Woodberry Kitchen.

From the Arlington National Cemetery to the Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C., is full of important museums, monuments and government landmarks.

In addition to these icons, the city also contains smaller historic sites, including President Lincoln’s Cottage , once the private home of the 16th president and now a museum. To learn more about Civil Rights, visit the Mary McLeod Bethune House , a townhouse that was the first headquarters of the National Council of Negro Women.

History buffs may also be interested in the Library of Congress , the national library of the United States and home of the 19th-century Thomas Jefferson Building with rotating exhibitions.

Unwind at an underground beer garden with board games at Church Hall or eat vegetarian tacos at Chaia .

Related Articles

Find France’s Joie de Vivre on a Road Trip from Lille to Provence

Ancient Sites and Winding Roads: 5 Road Trips from Da Nang, Vietnam

Forests, Fjords and Fishing Villages: 5 Epic Nordic Road Trips

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Boston to Washington, DC drive

Boston to washington, dc road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Boston to Washington, DC. If you're planning a road trip to Washington, DC, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Boston drive for about 1.5 hours

11:15 am   Old Sturbridge Village (Massachusetts) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:15 pm drive for about 54 minutes

1:09 pm   Hartford stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:09 pm drive for about 2 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 4.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from The Standard New York drive for about 1.5 hours

11:43 am   Philadelphia eat at Reading Terminal Market stay for about 3 hours and leave at 2:43 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

4:25 pm   Baltimore stay for about 1.5 hours and leave at 5:55 pm drive for about 58 minutes

6:54 pm  arrive in Washington, DC eat at Mitsitam Cafe stay at JW Marriott Hotel

day 2 driving ≈ 4.5 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Old Sturbridge Village (Massachusetts)   (4 mentions) Hartford   (15 answers)     The Mark Twain House & Museum   (4 mentions)     Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art   (2 mentions)     questions about Hartford:         What is your favorite restaurant in Hartford? New York City   (648 answers)     Central Park   (149 mentions)     High Line Park   (110 mentions)     The Metropolitan Museum of Art   (85 mentions)     Statue of Liberty   (69 mentions)     Times Square   (59 mentions)     restaurants around New York City:         Katz's Delicatessen         Shake Shack         Lombardi's Pizza         Balthazar Restaurant         Eataly     hotels around New York City:         The Standard New York         Ace Hotel New York         The Plaza         Hotel Gansevoort         Crosby Street Hotel     questions about New York City:         Is it a good idea to visit NYC in December?         free or cheap things to do in NYC         What is your favorite restaurant in New York City?         48 Hours in NYC - I NEED to know the best Pizza spots!         Which NYC museums are must see? We only have time for two. Philadelphia   (135 answers)     Philadelphia Museum of Art   (16 mentions)     The Liberty Bell   (12 mentions)     Eastern State Penitentiary   (8 mentions)     Spruce Street Harbor Park   (8 mentions)     Independence Mall   (7 mentions)     restaurants around Philadelphia:         Reading Terminal Market         Jim's Steaks         Pat's King of Steaks         Geno's Steaks         Zahav     questions about Philadelphia:         What is your favorite restaurant in Philadelphia?         What is there to do in Philly besides eat cheese steaks?         Pat's or Geno's: Which has the better cheesesteak?         Anybody know of great gems in the city I can dine at during my stay?         Eating out on a budget. Baltimore   (63 answers)     Fells Point   (11 mentions)     Inner Harbor   (7 mentions)     Lexington Market   (4 mentions)     Canton   (4 mentions)     The Helmand   (3 mentions)     restaurants around Baltimore:         G&M Restaurant and Lounge         Faidley's Seafood & Fresh Fish Market         Phillips Seafood         The Abbey Burger Bistro         Max's Taphouse     questions about Baltimore:         Best place to get seafood and crab cakes in Baltimore?         Best free things to do in Baltimore?         Authentic, non-chain restaurant for dinner with a child (with a well-refined palate) near the Inner Harbor?         Family-friendly seafood restaurant         What is your favorite restaurant in Baltimore?

Where's the best place to stay in Washington, DC?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Washington, DC .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out JW Marriott Hotel , which was mentioned 5 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Washington, DC? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Washington, DC?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Mitsitam Cafe , which was mentioned 10 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Washington, DC? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Washington, DC?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Washington, DC. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Washington, DC.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Washington, DC to Boston drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Boston to Washington, DC . Or get a full Boston to Washington, DC flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Boston well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Boston!

More info on this route:

road conditions

places to eat

flattest route

alternate routes

Google driving directions

East Coast Road Trip: 25+ Stops You Don’t Want To Miss!

We spent about 4 weeks doing an East Coast Road Trip in the fall and it was magical! Below we share the destinations we stopped at, what we did and how much time we spent to help you plan your East coast trip.

It was a whirlwind trip but so much fun!!

We also included some southern states and stops in case you want your road trip itinerary to take you all the way from Maine down to the Florida .

Here is a summary of the stops we recommend: Stowe, VT | Lincoln, NH | Acadia National Park | Boston, MA | Newport, RI | Mystic, CT | New York City | Cape May, NJ | Philadelphia, PA | Delaware | Washington, DC | Shenandoah NP | Asheville, NC | Charleston, SC | Savannah, GA | St Augustine, FL | Orlando, FL | Florida Keys

Table of Contents

Map Of East Coast Road Trip

The first map shows the first half of the trip.

This map shows the 2nd half of the trip.

Vermont – 2 Nights

Vermont is known for its green mountains, maple syrup, cider, wineries, breweries and gorgeous covered bridges. We tried to cover all of that when we visited!!

Ben and Jerry’s ice cream was also started here – we ran out of time and weren’t able to visit. But this is something else you may want to add to your list.

Burlington, Vermont

This fun college town has the famous Church Street – the street has a church on each end of it. It is exactly what you think a New England town would look like! It also has cool shops, yummy chocolates and a distillery tasting room. Plus a variety of unique shops and high end clothes stores.

Outside of the down is the waterfront with the Maple Creemees stand – you can’t leave without getting one! Plus foam brewers. We love stoping at local breweries.

You can also make a stop at Shelbourne Farm for cheese, syrup and walking trails.

Here is a high-level look of things to do in Burlington Vermont:

Shelbourne Farm 

• Walk trails
• Cheese making at 11am
• Get lunch food

Walk on Church Street 

• Find the Global Pathways Jewelry Store and The Crystal Cottage of Vermont
• Find street art 
• Lake Champlian Chocolates
• Smugglers Notch distillery

Waterfront around sunset 

• Foam Brewers 
• Creemees Ice Cream (Maple Creemees)
• Citizen Cider – Have Poultine for dinner here

More Fun Activities in Burlington

Burlington Scavenger Hunt check out all of Burlington’s landmarks and hidden gems as you answer trivia questions.

Sip for Burlington Brewery Tour Check out Burlington’s world-class brewery scene on this guided tour

For all the details on Burlington, VT check out our post: 15 Fun Things to do in Burlington, VT

Stowe, Vermont

This gorgeous town located at the foot of the highest peek in Vermont: Mount Mansfield is a must do while in Vermont. There are gorgeous hiking trails, picturesque bridges and beautiful scenic drives – especially in fall when the leaves are changing.

You won’t want to miss a stop at Cold Hollow Cider Place for hot cider and cider donuts. Be sure to head over the brewery for some cider beer!

If you like local breweries the Alchemist Stowe is known to have some of the best beers in the whole US. You will also find the Von Trapp place in Stowe. It is busy so if you are interested in visiting be sure to book a reservation ahead of time.

Here is a high-level look of things to do in Stowe, Vermont:

• Smugglers Notch State Park
• Hike the Bingham Falls via Mills Trail
• Walk Stowe’s Main Street
• Auto Toll Road to the top of Mt. Mansfield
• Emily’s Covered Bridge (Gold Brook Bridge)
• Scenic Drive (90 minutes)
• Cold Hollow Cider Place
• The Alchemist Stowe
• Stowe Cider
• Dinner at Von Trapp Place

For more on Stowe, Vermont check out our post: 20 Fun Things To Do in Stowe, Vermont

Where to Stay

We visited the east coast in our RV and choose to stay at a campground where we could visit Stowe and Burlington. There are also a lot of great hotels and vacation rentals in the area.

Apple Island RV Park Where we stayed

Sterling Ridge Resort  is in between Burlington and Stowe and would make a good base.

Green Mountain Inn  is right in Stowe and would be a great place to stay to explore Stowe.

Courtyard Burlington Harbor  is right in Burlington and would be perfect for exploring Burlington.

Vacation Rentals

Close to Stowe and the Mountain

Lake View Close to Burlington

If you are looking for more things to do in Vermont check out our post: 45 Places to Stop on Your Ultimate Vermont Road Trip and 31+ Fun Things To Do In Vermont [2 Day Itinerary included]

New Hampshire – 2 Nights

New Hampshire and Vermont share a lot of similarities on what they are known for. Beautiful landscape, maple syrup, scenic drives, covered bridges.

Lincoln, New Hampshire

When we visited New Hampshire we knew we wanted to do a tram or cog train ride . We opted for the tram as it would take us to the top of Cannon Mountain and one of our kids is named Cannon – it was an easy choice.

I also wanted to do the gorgeous Flume Gorge hike and it did not disappoint. Since we were there in fall we wanted to be sure to do the Kancamagus highway drive to see the changing leaves.

High-Level overview of what we did in New Hampshire:

• Cannon Mountain Tram
• Flume Gorge Hike  
• Grab Purple Tomatoe Sandwiches
• Kancamagus Highway Drive – great for seeing the fall leaves. Here is a list of attractions located off of the highway.
• Mt Washington Auto Road – Highest point in NH

Where To Stay

This is where we stayed: Fransted Family Campground & RV Park

Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain A restaurant on site, outside swimming pool, a hot tub and gorgeous scenery!

InnSeasons Resort Pollard Brook In the White Mountain National Forest but a 5 minute drive to downtown Lincoln! It has an indoor and outdoor pool too.

Luxury Loon Mountain Home

For more on New Hampshire check out our post: 14 Best Things To Do In Lincoln New Hampshire

Maine – 3 Nights

Maine is known for its rugged coast, pristine forests, lobster, outdoor recreation and Acadia National park. For our stop in Maine we just did Acadia National Park but we would love to go back to explore more of Maine. You also don’t want to miss the lobster rolls!

Acadia National Park

Whenever we visit a National Park we like to visit the whole park. Those off the beaten path places that most people don’t go to – along with all of the must see stops.

This meant there were 3 areas of Acadia we would visit – the 4th would have been taking a boat to one of the islands but we opted not to do that this time around. But will the next time we go!

The 3 areas we visited were the Schoodic Peninsula, the Main Loop and the Quiet Side. We also spent time in Bar Harbor eating and exploring the town.

Here is a high-level overview of what we did in Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor:

Schoodic Peninsula – Acadia National Park

• Sundew Trail
• Schoodic Headtrails

Acadia National Park – Main Loop

• Cadillac Mountain Sunrise – need tickets
• Park Loop Road drive stop at lookouts
• Precipice Trail – 2.1 miles 1000 ft elevation gain Crazy Family Adventure Acadia National Park Precipe Trail
• Beehive Trail – 1.5 mile 500 foot elevation gain https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maine/the-beehive-loop-trail
• Thunder Hole – Ocean Path trail to Thunder Hole (.7 mile there and .7 back)
• Jordan Pond House (Popovers (open 11am-5pm)) and Jordan Pond Path after dinner if we want to. 

Acadia National Park – Quiet Side And Lobster Boat

• Bass Harbor Lighthouse
• Hike Wonderland Trail
• LuLu Lobster Boat Tour

For more on Acadia National Park check out our posts: 17 Fun Things To Do In Acadia National Park and Acadia National Park Itinerary [Plus Where To stay]

Bar Harbor is a super cute town and with its close proximity to Acadia you will definitely want to spend some time here. Here are a few things to do:

Bar Harbor Culinary Walking Tour Taste local foods as you explore Bar Harbor on this 3-hour tour

Historic Guided Walking Tour Learn about the history of this historic town and its historic landmarks on this fun 2 hour tour

For more on Bar Harbor check out our post: 11 Things To Do In Bar Harbor Maine

Campgrounds

We stayed here: Mt Desert RV Park which was in a perfect location to see all parts of the park. Plus it was close to the Happy Clam Shack!

Hadley’s Point Campground This lovely campground offers a quiet escape from city life.

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel in Central Bar Harbor this hotel is located just 1.4 miles from Acadia National Park

Acadia Inn this comfortable hotel has an onsite trail that accesses the park

Vacation Rental

Shannon Cottage in Bar Harbor only a 5 minute walk to the Village Green

Lovely Mayapple Cottage outside of Bar Harbor this is a great option if you are looking for peace and quiet.

Massachusetts – 3 Nights

Craig and I had gotten engaged in Boston back in 2001 and we were excited to get back to visit again! There is so much history in Boston to take in via the Freedom Trail, the historical streets and the restaurants.

We choose to spend 2 full days exploring Boston and crammed in a lot. Here is what we did:

• Freedom Trail – Freedom Trail Walking Tour App
• Book a 2.5 hour guided walking tour of the Freedom Trail here.
• Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum Interactive Tour
• Donut Tour – Book your Underground Donut Tour here!
• Boston National Historic Park
• Little Italy Dinner – make a reservation
• Basketball Game – Celtics Game
• Fenway Park Book a 1 hour guided tour of Fenway Park

More Great Boston Activities

Old Town Tolley Tour  Hop on and off at one of 14 spots on this great tour. These great spots include the Boston Public Garden, the USS Constitution Museum, Quincy Market, and more.

Buy a Go City All Inclusive Pass  This pass includes 40+ attractions including the famous swan boat, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Children’s Museum, Museum of Science, Franklin Park Zoo, and more.

Boston Duck Tour  See Boston from a different view with this one of a kind kid friendly tour.

For more on Boston and Salem check out: 29+ Fun Things to Do In Boston With Kids

Accommodations in Boston

We left our RV at the Sandy Pond campground in Plymouth and went into Boston and spent the night at a hotel. There are not many options for campgrounds close to Boston. From what we could find.

Omni Parker Hotel Where we stayed

Seaport Hotel Boston  Stay right on Boston’s historic waterfront

Historic Loft Near Boston Common

Townhouse in the Center of Boston

Salem is usually a nice train ride from Boston. Well when we were there they were working on part of the line so we had to take a train and a bus. Plus we went the opening of Halloween weekend. It was an experience! The bus ride was packed full and felt like it took forever but we made it.

There is so much history in Salem as well as long as all the fun that surrounds Halloween there! I am glad we went and experienced Halloween in Salem. That being said I would really like to come back to Salem and explore when it isn’t so packed with people.

Here is what we did in Salem and was recommended to us:

• Walk the Salem Heritage Trail
• Stroll along Chestnut Street (Take the time to wander down beautiful Chestnut Street, which was the first planned street in America. Read all of the house plaques to learn about the people who built and lived in the exquisite Federal-style mansions.)
• Salem has wonderful, historic cemeteries, including the Old Burying Point Cemetery on Charter Street, Howard Street Cemetery and the Broad Street Cemetery.
• The Charter Street Burying Point is one of the oldest cemeteries in Massachusetts. In it you can see the graves of a Witch Trials judge, a Mayflower passenger, and architect Samuel McIntire. 
• Salem Witch Trails Tour Guide App
• Haunted Happenings Marketplace – Salem Commons

More Great Activities in Salem

Ghosts of Salem Walking Tour  This family friendly tour will immerse you in the city’s dark past.

Haunt & History Guided Night Tour  Explore this historic city at night.

For an extra stop check out this awesome Nantucket Itinerary!

If you want to go straight from Boston to NYC check out this great post on how you can do it via the train! Taking the Boston to NYC Train .

Rhode Island – 1 Night

When making a stop in Newport, Rhode Island we knew we wanted to try some Oysters! Being that we were there with the kids we knew they would maybe try an oyster but would not appreciate them or how much they cost. For that reason we got some to go and it worked out great.

Here is a list of things to do in Newport, Rhode Island:

• Newport to Ocean Drive Historic District
• Bowen’s Wharf
• Brenton Point State Park (get a kite)
• Pawtucket – National Park Site
• Providence for lunch
• Snake Den State Park
• West Greenwich
• Mantucket Rhodyoyster farm tour and dinner.

For more on Rhode Island check out: 19 Best Things To Do In Newport RI

We stayed at the Worden Pond Family Campground.

Marshall Slocum Inn this federalist style hotel is conveniently only a 5-minute drive from the Newport Mansions and within walking distance to the Cliff Walk.

Newport Harbor Hotel and Marina Here you can enjoy waterfront views, on-site dining, and an indoor saltwater pool.

Downtown Newport Luxury on Thames

Harbor View Retreat

Connecticut – 1 Night

In Connecticut we wanted to check out a cider mill and the cute small town of Mystic!

Here are a few things to do in Mystic:

• Mystic Seaport Museum
• Olde Mistick Village
• Downtown Mystic
• Clydes Cider Mill

More to do in Mystic

Glow in the Park TreeTrails Burn some energy high in the tree tops. Great for ages 7+

Downtown Mystic Ghost Tour learn about this seafaring town’s dark past on this 2 hour guided tour.

For more on Mystic check out: 21 Best Things To Do In Mystic CT

Sun Outdoors Mystic On-site amenities and activities include basketball, horseshoes, miniature golf, bocce ball, pickleball, volleyball, and a heated swimming pool, among others.

Whaler’s Inn This hotel is within walking distance of shops and restaurants and is around the corner from the Mystic River Bascule Bridge.

Taber Inn Only an 8-minute walk from the beach, and 1 mile from the Mystic Seaport, the Taber Inn has everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay.

Overlooking the Mystic River

Seaside Getaway

New York – 3 Nights

New York City

While in NYC we wanted to be sure to hit the historic sites, a broadway play, China Town and also the 9/11 Memorial. NYC is such a cool city with so much to see and do and just an awesome energetic vibe. We were there for 2 1/2 days and went from the minute we got there until we left.

This time we stayed on the New Jersey side and the subway was right down the road from our RV park. We took the ferry one trip and did the subway the rest of the time and it was so easy for getting into the city.

Here is what we did with our 2 1/2 days in NYC:

• Book your tickets for the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with Ferry Ride
• Statue of Liberty
• Food Tour – do it ourselves of Pizza Places
• Central Park 
• Lego Store 
• Thrift Store  – Thrifty Hog
• Flight Club – shoe store 
• Rutger Park – bball court
• Knicks Basketball Game
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum Timed Entry Ticket
• Little Italy – Walking Tour App
• China Town – Walking Tour App
• Dinner by Broadway at Haru Sushi and dessert at Juniors
• Booked Broadway Play 8pm – The Lion King Get tickets here: The Lion King on Broadway
• Times Square

More to do in NYC

New York CityPass – Save money at 5 tops attractions including the Empire State Building, American Museum of Natural History, Top of the Rock, Guggenheim Museum and more.

Manhattan Helicopter Tour Get a bird’s eye view of the Big Apple

Big Bus Hop On and Off Sightseeing Tour Hop on and off at your leisure at NYC’s most iconic landmarks

Check out our post for more to do in NYC with kids: Visiting New York City With Kids [Itinerary Included]

We would 100% recommend the Liberty Harbor RV park as a great place to stay if you are coming in an RV. It wasn’t cheap at over $100 a night for basically a water and electric parking lot (there was a dump station) but with the location it was perfect for exploring NYC!

It is located in New Jersey but it is just across the water and there is a subway up the road (that you can walk to) that you can take to easily get into New York City.

Hyatt Place NYC Chelsea this great location is walking distance to restaurants, landmarks, and the subway

Hampton Inn Times Square Stay in the heart of Times Square at this amazing hotel.

One Bedroom Apartment with Den in NYC

Cozy Studio Apartment near the Empire State Building

Another great place to visit in New York – that is located on the western side of the state is Ithaca, New York! If you are interested in stopping here check out this great post on things to do in Ithaca .

New Jersey – 1 Night

Ocean City and Cape May

We didn’t spend much time in New Jersey but knew when we were there we wanted to visit one of the boardwalks. Our first stop was the Ocean City boardwalk and since it was off season (Fall) it wasn’t very busy but we still got an idea of what the boardwalk is like!

Exploring the city of Cape May and seeing the beach was fun too. Here is a list of things we recommend you do in New Jersey:

• Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
• Atlantic City (Absecon Light House – Open Thursdays through Mondays
• Lucy The Elephant,
• Historic Smithville
• King King Sundae at the Sugar Factory
• Ocean City – walk the boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean beach
• Cape May (Ligthhouse, Washington Street Mall, Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, Cape May Historic District)
• Brew and Surf Trail
• Explore Cape May
• Cold Spring Brewery
• Ghost Tour at Historic Cold Spring Village – booked

More Fun Activities at the Jersey Shore

Jersey Shore Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise learn about marine life and the history of Cape May on this 3 hour cruise

Weekend Dolphin Watching Breakfast Cruise Enjoy breakfast as you watch dolphins on this 2-hour guided tour

We stayed at the Echo Farms campground . It was fine – it was a place to stay. The roads were a bit tight but we made it work.

Biscayne Suites is a hotel located in Ocean City that has all of the amenities that you could ask for. 

Ocean 7 is located on the boardwalk in Ocean City

4 Bedroom/ 4 Bath Beachfront Condo

2 Bedroom/ 3 Bath with Ocean Views

Philadelphia – 2 Nights

We ended up spending one day in Philly. We booked a food tour and didn’t really think about the times that a lot of the historic buildings were open. So we ended up just seeing a lot of them from the outside.

The food tour was well worth it! Just wish we would have planned the timing better.

Here is what we did in Philly:

• Reading Terminal Market – food tour: Book it here: Flavors of Philly Food Tour
• The Liberty Bell
• Independence Hall – you need a ticket ahead of time – we saw it from the outside.
• John F. Kennedy Plaza – Love Sculpture
• Amore Sculpture – Sister Cities Park
• Penn’s Landing on the waterfront

Click here to download a map of historic Philly

Additional Things to do in Philly

Revolutionary Walk Guided Tour Journey through the Old City on this guided tour

Amazing Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt Adventure use your smartphone as a guide and set your own pace. It includes stops at many of the most famous spots in the city, as well as some lesser-known sights

For all the details check out our post: 17+ Fun Things To Do In Philadelphia With Kids [Plus 1 day Itinerary]

We stayed at the same place we stayed when we explore Jersey: Echo Farms campground .

Philadelphia Marriot Downtown A super comfortable hotel right in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, Philadelphia Marriott Downtown is a wonderful place to call home for a few days.

Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City be within walking distance of several attractions when you stay here.

Historic 3- Story Classic Trinity House

Beautiful 3 Bedroom Apartment in the Heart of Center City

Delaware – 1 Night

We weren’t exactly sure what to do in Delaware but we kept seeing beaches and boardwalks. And also knew we wanted to visit the Assateague National Seashore to try to see the horses (Even though this is actually in Maryland).

• Assateague National Seashore
• Wilmington Scavenger Hunt Visit all the hidden gems and landmarks that Wilmington has to offer while ansering trivia questions.

We stayed at the Jellystone Park in Lewes . It was a really nice park!

Hyatt Place Wilmington Riverfront This modern hotel is located right on the riverfront, in an ideal location for sightseers.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Wilmington Downtown both the Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts and the Brandywine Zoo are within walking distance.

Upscale Vacation Rental Home

Gateway Oasis in Brandywine Valley

Washington DC – 3 Nights

Washington DC

We spent one day exploring Washington DC and the monuments. The next day we returned to do some of the free museums. Check out what we did:

• White House picture from the outside. White House Experience App
• Black Lives Matter Plaza
• The White House Visitor Center
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial
• Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
• Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
• Korean War Veterans Memorial
• Abraham Lincoln Memorial
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• Washington Monument
• Arlington National Cemetery
• Union Station

For all the details check out our post: 23 Things To Do In Washington DC With Kids [+ 2 Day Itinerary]

Great Tours in Washington DC

Hop-On and Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour  See the sites and learn the history of DC from a double-decker bus. This tour visits the White House, Lincoln Memorial, National Cathedral, Arlington National Cemetary, National Capital, and more.

Tastes of Georgetown Food Tour  Learn about the history of DC’s oldest and most iconic neighborhood while sampling delicious local foods.

Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour  Bike through the Tidal Basin and National Mall on this self-guided tour. This three-hour guided tour is perfect for all ages and includes bikes and helmets.

Georgetown Ghost Tour  Discover the dark side of this historic part of the city, including visiting the famous Exorcist stairs featured in the movie during this walking tour.

African American History Tour  On this 4-hour tour, you will see some of the most iconic sites and lesser-known unique landmarks in civil rights history. From the home of Frederick Douglass to African American Civil War Memorial and Museum to Howard University take an in-depth look at the struggle for civil rights.

Washington Plaza Hotel  This hotel is located close to the White House and Dupont Circle. The hotel offers a wide variety of rooms and suite choices.

Courtyard by Marriott Washington Downtown/Convention Center  Stay in the heart of our nation’s capital. This hotel has a restaurant, private parking, free bikes, and a beautiful garden on site.

Private Apartment in a Historic Home  Located in the center of Northwest DC, this home is located within walking distance of the Metro and monuments and museums.

Historic Victorian Townhome  This beautiful three-bedroom townhome is located in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Walking distance to restaurants, bars, and the National Mall.

That is where we ended our 4 week East Coast road trip. But here are a few other stops we have made over the years that you could add to your trip:

Shenandoah National park

Shenandoah National park is a great stop when visiting Virginia.

Here are a view things to do:

• Shenandoah National Park Self-Driving Audio Guide
• Luray Caverns and Shenandoah Skyline Drive Guided Tour

Williamsburg

When in Virginia you don’t want to miss making a stop at Colonial Williamsburg.

Colonial Williamsburg Guided Walking Tour Learn about the role that Williamsburg played in our nation’s independence.

Busch Gardens & Water Country Option Ticket Enjoy family fun at this great theme park

Haunted Ghosts, Witches and Pirates Tour Hear stories of the ghosts that haunt Colonial Williamsburg

Virginia Beach

Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours experience the sunset over the Chesapeake Bay on this 2-hour kayak tour

Wetland Zipline Tour See a unique view of the wetland forest of Virginia Beach

Comfort Inn Williamsburg Gateway This hotel is centrally located halfway between the Jamestown Settlement and Colonial Williamsburg.

Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel This great family-friendly hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool, children’s playground, and fitness center.

Hampton Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront North is located oceanfront this hotel only steps away from fun attractions and nightlife.

3 Bedroom Home with a Great Patio

Beautiful 5 Bedroom Home Steps Away from the Beach

North Carolina

Head inland to Asheville. Located off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. We love the town of Asheville – they have some great shops and breweries. We also love all of the hiking and things to do in the surrounding area.

Things To Do In Asheville:

• Scenic Helicopter Experience Take in unbeatable views of Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains

Check out our posts for more details:

9 Amazing And Fun Things To Do In Asheville With Kids

5 Best Kid Friendly Breweries in Asheville, North Carolina

Kid Friendly Hikes Near Asheville, North Carolina

Accommodations in Asheville

Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park This is a wonderful campground located right on the French Broad River.

Blue Ridge Travel Park This RV park is located in nearby Hendersonville. It is surrounded by beautiful views and great places to hike.

Country Inn and Suites by Radisson A mile from Asheville and 2.5 miles from the Biltmore the Country Inn has a continental breakfast, fitness center, and indoor heated pool. 

The Omni Grove Park Inn  – Built in 1913 the Grove Park Inn is a beautiful place to stay in Asheville. There are plenty of amenities on site such as a subterranean spa with mineral pools, a sauna, a steam room, and a golf course on site.

Mountaintop Log Cabin is located in a well-established community with plenty of privacy and a 300-acre nature preserve within walking distance as well. 

Relaxing Mountain Cabin  – Two-story cabin with a wonderful deck with a hot tub and fire table. Located near downtown Asheville and close to all the many hiking trails that Asheville has to offer. 

South Carolina

Fort Sumter in Charleston holds an important place in our country’s history. Book here to take a ferry ride to Fort Sumter and explore the museum and National monument.

Tour historic downtown Charleston by horse-drawn carriage on this 1 hour guided experience.

Savor the flavors of Charleston on this food tour. Learn about Charleston’s 300 years of culinary history on this 2.5-hour tour.

Congaree National Park

Home to the oldest and largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States, Congaree National Park in South Carolina has a fairytale-like quality.

Learn more: 10 Fun Things to do in Congaree National Park

Learn the secrets and stories that make Savannah America’s Most Haunted City on this small group walking tour. It is about 3 hours but the time flies and the kids are sure to love it.

A great Tybee Island tour idea is  this dolphin tour . You’ll have a good chance to see dolphins. You will love seeing over a hundred reptiles at the alligator pond. You’ll get views of Cockspur Island Lighthouse, Fort Pulaski, and Tybee Island Lighthouse. However, this tour is 5 hours in length so plan to do a day trip to Tybee Island.

Explore Savannah on this hop-on-and-off historic trolley tour get on or off at any of the 14 stops including Temple Mickve Israel, the Cathedral of St John the Baptist, the Antique Mall, and more.

Riverboat Harbor Narrated Sightseeing Cruise Sail along Savannah’s beautiful waterfront while you learn about the history of this great city.

More Wonderful Activities in Savannah

Discover amazing places to eat on the East Side Food Tour . Enjoy award-winning food without having to wait in line. Find out the best places to dine that only the locals know.

If you love spooky be sure to check out the Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour where you will learn all about the paranormal and haunting in America’s Most Haunted City.

Learn more about Savannah: 21 Superb Things To Do In Savannah, GA with Kids

If you are interested in staying in the historic district be sure to check out this post: Where to stay in Savannah’s Historic District.

McIntosh Manor RV Park and Campground  – Located on Highway 17 in Townsend, Georgia, about 45 minutes outside of Savannah. This campground offers amenities including 30/50 amp hookups, a large fire pit, and a laundry facility.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Walking distance from the Ships to Sea Museum and other popular attractions. This hotel offers private parking, a fitness center, free bikes, and a continental breakfast.

Marriott Savannah Riverfront this luxury hotel is located downtown. The hotel has an attached restaurant and marvelous city views.

4 Bedroom Victorian Home in the Historic District

2 Bedroom Charming Home in a Great Location

St Augustine

We won’t want to miss the oldest city in the US: St Augustine, Florida! There is so much history here and so many great things to do from a St Augustine romantic getaway to an awesome family trip!

Marineland Dolphin Adventure is about 20 miles south of St Augustine. Book your ticket here. One option at Marineland is to swim with the dolphins. During this encounter you will get to touch, swim and play with these amazing sea creatures.

Visit the haunted side of America’s oldest town with the Ghost Walking Tour .

Potter’s Wax Museum was the first wax museum in the US. It opened its doors in 1949. You can visit its fascinating collection of more than 150 wax figures.

Learn more: 17 Exciting Things To Do In St. Augustine With Kids and Unique Museums In St Augustine.

Where to Stay in St Augustine

Sun Outdoors St Augustine numerous site options including full hookups, shaded site, patio sites and buddy sites at this large RV park.

Ocean Grove RV Resort is located just blocks away from St. Augustine beach. This property offers several activities year round to keep the entire family entertained.

Sebastian Hotel  – offering extra large guest rooms or two room suites, perfect for a family trip.

DoubleTree by Hilton  – located in the Historic District, convenient to the Fountain of Youth and Castillo De San Marcos.

Ocean Front Home Minutes from Downtown

There are so many fun things to do in Orlando! It has our favorite outdoor water park in the US: Volcano Bay. Of course Disney World and Universal with Harry Potter World. But there are also a lot of other fun things to do in Orlando with kids including tubing down a gorgeous river!

Here are a few more posts to help you plan your time in Orlando:

• Magic Kingdom
• Universal Orlando Tips
• Discover 24 Tips for Universal Volcano Bay

Legoland Florida is a must see if you have younger kids.

Other Fun Orlando Activities

Titanic Artifact Exhibition Ticket Travel back in time to visit the Titanic in this 20,000 square foot interactive museum

Orlando Go City Explorer Pass Save money on the top tours and attractions in Orlando

Explore the beauty of the Everglades on this Sunset Airboat Tour . During this 1-hour tour you will search for alligators, turtles and other wildlife.

If you are in Orlando during the Halloween season be sure to Check out Universal Halloween Horror Nights.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites is located a short drive from Orlando’s main attractions. You will love the family rooms, pool, fitness center, free parking and more.

Endless Summer Resort with Universal The Resort itself is nice with a large pool and multiple food options.

Stunning 3 Bedroom/2 Bath Orlando Vista Cay

Large 4 Bedroom Close to Universal Studios

Florida Keys

The Florida Keys have so much to offer! We love going here with our family and getting out on the water. You can learn more about our Florida Keys Road Trip here!

Snorkeling Tours

Half Day Snorkel Trip See the marine life of the Keys up close as you explore the US’s only living coral reef. This is suitable for beginners, you only have to know how to swim.

Snorkel 2 Coral Reefs Visit some of the best snorket sites in the Key Largo Marine Sancturary. See John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park, Christ of the Abyss, Elbow Reef, and Grecian Rocks on this tour.

Glass Bottom Boat Sunset Cruise Enjoy the beauty of the fish without getting wet in this glass bottom boat. During this 2-hour cruise you will see one of the gorgeous sunsets the Keys are known for.

Go for a Sunset Sail on a Schooner Sailboat Sit back with a glass of champagne and relax watching for native marine life on this epic sailboat cruise.

Fiesta Key RV resort  – a good campground with full hookups, sites on the water (if you can get one), a large pool, and an onsite restaurant overlooking the ocean!

Sun Outdoors Key Largo  located in Key Largo, smaller campground with only about 35 full hookup sites.

Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo a variety of water sports and amentities including private beach access are offered at this resort.

Playa Largo Resort & Spa you will be impressed by the amenites offered including private cabanas, fire pits, hot tubs, and water sports facilities.

Fun in the Sun 3 Bedroom House

Pin to Your Family Road Trip Board to Save for Later

• Recent Posts

• 4 Day Denali National Park Itinerary With Kids - May 1, 2024
• Riding The East Fork Transit In Denali National Park - April 22, 2024
• Visiting Denali National Park With Kids - April 22, 2024

DISCLOSURE : This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

17 Best Stops on a Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip

Last Updated on January 8, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

If you’re looking for the quintessential tour of New England, then you cannot go wrong with going on a Boston to Bar Harbor road trip. Driving from the Massachusetts capital to the gateway to Acadia National Park will take you through three states and countless amazing places to visit along the way.

There are plenty of people who plan to make this drive in just one day. And while this is certainly possible, you will be missing out on some of the most charming towns and cool spots that Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine have to offer. So whether you want to take in every lighthouse possible or sample lobster rolls while meandering up the Maine coast, this is the guide for you.

Planning your road trip can be a joy of an experience when you consider just how much there is to see and do in a relatively short distance. So if you want to go on the perfect drive through coastal Maine, then make sure to include at least some of these stops.

Table of Contents

Planning a New England Road Trip

Unlike embarking on a road trip in the western USA (for instance, from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park ), the drive from Boston to Bar Harbor is relatively densely populated and you won’t be driving through large patches of open wilderness with services available. Conversely, there are plenty of towns along the way and just as many gas stations and facilities so you don’t need to plan too far in advance.

One thing to keep in mind is the season that you plan to do this road trip in. Obviously, the summer months of June, July and August are the most popular for those driving to Bar Harbor as the weather conditions are the mildest.

There isn’t much you need to consider when it comes to road safety in these months, except to be on the lookout for deer and moose and to be aware that conditions can, at times, get foggy.

If you’re travelling in the cooler months from as early as late October through April, be aware that snow can be an option. Particularly in the winter months, there will be quite a bit of snow (and, honestly, Acadia may not be the most pleasant to visit then, anyway).

Autumn is another very popular time to visit, namely because the foliage is simply spectacular. Note that the days do start to get shorter and there can be more rain, but driving conditions should still be fine.

Road conditions are generally good, but it always pays to be aware of wildlife!

If you need to rent a car for this road trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which shows deals across a number of different car rental companies.

How Far is Boston to Bar Harbor?

Without stopping, the Boston to Bar Harbor drive time along the I-95N is about five hours total and the distance between Boston and Bar Harbor is about 300 miles (483 kilometres). However, staying completely on the I-95 isn’t the ideal route to go if you want to make the most out of this road trip.

Instead, getting off the interstate once you’re past Portland and heading north on Highway 1 is going to be far more rewarding, even if it will add to your overall drive time. This is where you will find the majority of the worthwhile stops on the Boston to Acadia road trip and it is certainly the most picturesque, taking you all along the coast.

Though you could do this drive within the span of the day, if you want to make a road trip out of it, it’s worth planning a few nights to get all the way up to Bar Harbor. Planning to stop for a few nights in Portland and in the midcoast town of Camden or Rockland.

Best Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip Stops

Salem, massachusetts.

Leaving the city, the first stop on the drive is a bit of a detour, but worth it nonetheless – and that is Salem.

The historic seaside town is notable for being home to the Salem Witch Trials – a series of prosecutions of accused witches in 1692-1693, the trials resulted in over thirty guilty convictions which resulted in the hangings of fourteen women and five men. At least five other people died in prison and one man was pressed to death for refusing to plead.

The Salem Witch Trials are obviously an incredibly dark part of this town’s history and you can learn more about them while visiting this town.

However, these days, Salem is also well known for being a hub for the New Age. So if you’re interested in learning about dark Puritanical history and also may want to pick up a deck of tarot cards or get your palm read, then Salem is an excellent stop for you. It’s also a popular day trip from Boston

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

When driving from Boston to Bar Harbor, the stretch that goes through New Hampshire is only about 20 miles, however, that doesn’t mean there isn’t anywhere to stop in this great state!

And the best place to explore on this route is the lovely seaside town of Portsmouth. Not to be confused with the city in Hampshire, England, Portsmouth, New Hampshire is small but charming and very much worth exploring as you make your way to Maine.

If you’re looking for a great place to grab some lunch, then make sure to head to Geno’s Chowder & Sandwich Shop , located right on the harbour. This place has a great deal on a cup of chowder and a fresh lobster roll, so you can start getting your fix before you’ve officially made it to Maine!

Portsmouth’s town centre is also filled with interesting shops to browse and it can be very much worth taking a stroll along the main drags.

If you’re travelling with children, make sure to make a stop at Treehouse Toys, which is an excellent independent toy store that can be a lot of fun for adults, too!

Cape Neddick, Maine

The next (and subsequent) stop on this road trip from Boston are in the great state of Maine and what could be a more iconic first place to stop than a lighthouse?

And one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Maine happens to be located in the southern town of York on Cape Neddick and that is the beautiful Nubble Lighthouse.

This lighthouse is situated in an absolutely beautiful setting on its own small island. You can view it easily from the mainland while also enjoying the lovely scenery of the waves crashing against the rocky shoreline.

There are also plenty of benches and places to sit around here, so you can spend the time you’d like enjoying the views of this beautiful lighthouse.

Ogunquit, Maine

Only a few miles north of Cape Neddick along the coast of Maine lies the popular tourist town of Ogunquit which is home to, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful beaches in the state.

While the state isn’t necessarily known for having “beach weather,” the few months of the year when it is warm enough to enjoy the white sands, then Ogunquit Beach is an excellent option for this!

Ogunquit is also home to a cute downtown area with plenty of shops along with a lot of other kitschy seaside town mainstays – such as mini-golf!

There are a number of famous lobster shacks to eat at if you have a hankering for seafood. Alternatively, we can recommend eating at the Greenery Cafe , which has an extensive breakfast menu along with plenty of sandwiches and salads for those looking for a great lunch option!

Kennebunkport, Maine

Another very famous seaside town in Southern Maine and a perfect stop on a Boston to Acadia road trip is Kennebunkport. This is another very popular vacation spot and it has a lot to offer visitors.

Of course, like the rest of Maine, lobster shacks and seafood restaurants abound, and there are some lovely beaches to enjoy and a gorgeous harbour and coastal views to take in.

There is also a charming town centre that is filled with interesting shops and other points of interest. There are also a few small museums to take in, should this suit your fancy, And if you’re interested in getting out on the water, there are plenty of options available for you in Kennebunkport.

And if you want to experience another beautiful beach before hitting the next stop, visit Old Orchard Beach – one of the most beautiful in the state.

Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Located directly to the south of Portland (and effectively a suburb of the city), Cape Elizabeth is home to arguably Maine’s most prominent and iconic lighthouse – the Portland Head Light.

Situated in the vast Fort Williams Park, this lighthouse isn’t the only attraction here. Fort Williams Park boasts some beautiful cliffside views and walks, small swimming areas and beaches, an old fort and plenty of beautiful grassy areas to enjoy.

All in all, this makes for an excellent stop in the Portland area before heading into the city proper and exploring the old port, and also gives you an opportunity to take in Maine’s most notable lighthouses!

Portland, Maine

No drive from Boston to Acadia National Park would be complete without a stop in Maine’s largest city, Portland. Though this isn’t a huge city by most metrics (it’s home to only about 70,000 people), this is the largest metropolis in the state and has a lot to offer visitors.

Not only are there fantastic restaurants to enjoy and plenty of locally brewed craft beer to sip, but there are also a number of cool things to see and do that it’s worth spending a couple of days in Portland in order to really get to know this city and to do it justice.

Maine doesn’t have a lot of cities, so it’s a great place to get an “urban” vibe, especially considering how rural and small the rest of the towns on this road trip are!

Freeport, Maine

As the last major stop before you venture off the interstate and onto Highway 1, Freeport is an essential stop on any Maine road trip for one reason – the flagship store of LL Bean.

This shop is absolutely massive and offers anything an outdoor lover could imagine. Set over a number of different areas and across a couple of floors, the LL Bean store is a very “Maine” place to visit.

Known for its massive boot marking the entrance, this is the perfect place to pick up any outdoor gear you may need (or forgot to pack!) for your trip to Acadia National Park.

The town of Freeport itself also has a nice downtown area with several cute shops and cool restaurants to check out, so make sure not to only set your sites on LL Bean and explore a bit of the town, as well!

Wiscasset, Maine

Dubbed “the prettiest village in Maine,” the town of Wiscasset is an excellent stop in the midcoast region on a scenic drive up the coast, especially if you’re feeling a little bit hungry!

Located directly on Highway 1, Wiscasset is perhaps best known for being home to the famous Red’s Lobster Shack , which has been highlighted in a number of different publications over the years.

Because of this, the shack gets queues that wind their way around the corner and up the streets and, in the busy months, you could be waiting to get a lobster roll for hours.

If you want to minimise your wait but still have an incredibly high-quality meal, then head to Sprague’s – located right across the street. They have a similar menu to Red’s, delicious food and they also make incredible milkshakes with the local Giffords Ice Cream! They also have a nice outdoor seating area.

Like most other towns in the area, Wiscasset also has a number of cute shops and things to see and do in the town centre, that is very much worth exploring.

Boothbay Harbor, Maine

This stop is a bit of a detour from Highway 1 and can be a bit of a touristy stop, but if you want to experience a truly charming Maine harbour, then make sure to head to Boothbay while on your Boston to Maine road trip.

Boothbay Harbor is a bit of a kitschy tourist town, but it can be a good place to visit if that is your thing. It’s full of souvenir shops and opportunities to go on harbour cruises and whale-watching tours.

The harbour itself is really lovely and a joy to stroll around and the drive down the peninsula to reach this town is gorgeous, as well.

Damariscotta, Maine

Coastal New England is well known for its oysters but you would be hard-pressed to find a more famous local variety than the Damariscotta oyster – hailing from the eponymous river in this beautiful Maine town! Damariscotta is a small town with a charming main street, home to plenty of local artisan’s shops and a number of great restaurants.

When driving through this region, you will also notice plenty of oyster farms in the river and, if you want to sample some, make sure to head to one of the many oyster bars or restaurants and order a few in any style that you desire!

Waldoboro, Maine

Waldoboro isn’t a stop that makes it onto most Maine road trip itineraries, however, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t worth visiting a few places in this unassuming town! Located on Highway 1, one of the best places to stop in Waldoboro is Moody’s Diner , especially if you’ve got an appetite.

This classic diner has been in business for over 80 years. It’s open daily and serves up diner favourites and also makes dozens of freshly baked pies each day – so even if you’re not hungry enough for a meal, it’s worth stopping by for a slice of pie, at least!

If you’re interested in sampling some locally brewed craft beer, one of our favourite breweries in the region is based in Waldoboro – Odd Alewives Brewery. Located in a refurbished barn on Old Route 1, they have a handful of fantastic beers on tap, a wood-fired oven for delicious pizzas and a delightful garden setting to enjoy.

Rockland, Maine

One of the most popular destinations in Midcoast Maine, this is a can’t-miss stop on your Boston to Acadia drive. There are a number of things to do in Rockland that it can be worth planning to spend a couple of nights in this area so you have enough time to see and do everything there is to offer.

Like many towns in the region, Rockland has a charming downtown filled with art galleries, museums, shops and great restaurants – a personal favourite is North Beacon Oyster!

And if you’re looking for something quick to eat, you cannot go wrong with Wasses Hot Dogs . Rockland is also home to the Maine Lobster Festival, so this is the perfect town to pick up yet another lobster roll.

Make sure to walk out to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse also visit the charming lighthouse at nearby Owl’s Head. There is also the opportunity to take a ferry to one of the nearby islands if this suits your fancy.

Rockport, Maine

Located about a ten-minute drive north of Rockland is the small town of Rockport. This town often gets overlooked, with visitors being more taken in by beautiful Camden or bustling Rockland, but Rockport has its own charm and it’s worth stopping in on your way up to the town of Bar Harbor.

Outside of the town centre, you can find the fantastic Oakland Park Lanes , a classic candlepin bowling alley that’s the perfect place to spend a rainy day for young and old alike.

Downtown Rockport has a charming harbour that is arguably prettier than neighbouring Camden. And if you’re looking for a great meal, then make sure to head to 18 Central, located on Rockport’s main drag.

Camden, Maine

Along with Rockland, Camden is probably the most popular place to visit in Midcoast Maine and it’s for a good reason – it is incredibly charming. Located only about eight miles (about a fifteen-minute drive) north of Rockland, there are a number of things to do in Camden that make it a great place to base yourself for a few nights while on your road trip to Bar Harbor.

Camden Harbor is beautiful and you can even opt to take a sailing cruise from here. If you simply want to enjoy the views, then make sure to have a meal at the delicious Waterfront Restaurant. Kids will love the nearby Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe — but it is super fun for adults with a sweet tooth, too.

For those looking to get a bit active, then consider going for a hike in the nearby Camden Hills State Park. Either hiking or driving up to Mount Battie – the highest peak in the park – will provide excellent views over Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay as a whole and there are plenty of other hiking trails to enjoy, as well.

Lincolnville, Maine

Heading north along Highway 1 from Camden, the next major town you will hit is lovely Lincolnville. This little town is pretty small, however, it can be worth a stop – especially if you’re interested in heading to the beach.

Lincolnville Beach is very popular to visit on hot and sunny days in the summer. Though it certainly isn’t the nicest beach in Maine, it can still be worth the stop if it suits your fancy.

For those looking for something a bit more secluded and local, then nearby Ducktrap Beach is a good option. Even if you don’t want to visit the beach, Lincolnville also boasts a cute downtown area with plenty of shops and a handful of restaurants that can be worth browsing.

Belfast, Maine

The last major town before continuing on to Mount Desert Island is the lovely settlement of Belfast. There are lots of cool things to do in Belfast and it is one of the larger cities in this area of Maine – with a whopping 7,000 people who call it home!

There is a lovely downtown to explore filled with great restaurants, art galleries, artisan shops, and much more. There is also a nice waterfront and harbour to walk along, a few museums to visit, and a number of different farmer’s markets on various days of the week.

From Belfast, it is about another hour and twenty-minute drive before you reach Bar Harbor.

Where to Stay on the Boston to Bar Harbor Drive

If you want to make all or even some of these stops along the way to Acadia National Park, then you’re going to want to stop for a few nights along the way. The best places to do that are in Portland and Camden.

In Portland, you will have time to explore the city and the areas surrounding it. Camden is the ideal location for exploring the midcoast region, nearby Rockland, and more.

West End Inn – This quaint bed and breakfast makes for an excellent place to stay in Portland and a perfect base while on your road tip Bar Harbor. Centrally located in downtown Portland, it’s perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. There are plenty of great rooms available and a wonderful breakfast offered each morning.

The Press Hotel – If you’re after a bit of luxury during your stay in Portland, then this swanky hotel is an excellent option. Centrally located close to all of the top sites of Maine’s largest city, they have a number of plush rooms on offer, a restaurant on site and plenty of other amenities to ensure you have a great stay.

Private Rental – For those after their own place, there are plenty of private vacation rentals on offer in Portland. This chic apartment in the Arts District is just one example of many great properties available in the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Portland hotels!

Abigail’s Inn – If you’re looking for a charming bed and breakfast in Camden, then this is a perfect place to rest your head when on your road trip. They have countless beautiful rooms on offer, a great breakfast available each morning and the perfect location for exploring the midcoast region.

Blackberry Inn – For those after a bit of luxury, this inn is a great choice for you. Located in the heart of Camden, this place makes for the perfect romantic getaway. All rooms are spacious and feature a seating area and/or a balcony and there is a hearty breakfast included each morning.

Private Rental – For those looking for your own space in Camden, a private vacation rental is a great choice. A place like this charming cottage is just one of many to choose from in the area.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Camden hotels!

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel – Located in central Bar Harbor, this hotel is the perfect base on Mount Desert Island. Centrally located close to everything this town has to offer, they have a number of great rooms available and a complimentary breakfast to enjoy each morning.

Bar Harbor Inn and Spa – If you want a plush experience while visiting Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, then this hotel is an excellent choice for you. They have a myriad of luxe rooms on offer, a full-service spa to enjoy and plenty of other fantastic amenities to ensure your stay is a memorable one.

Private Rental – If you’d like to have your own place from which to explore Acadia and Mount Desert Island, then a private holiday rental is a good choice for you. There are lots of places to choose from – like this cottage in downtown Bar Harbor – that can suit many travel styles.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bar Harbor hotels!

Planning the perfect road trip from Boston to Acadia National Park is only a struggle when you consider just how much there is to see and do on this drive. Make sure you set aside enough time to enjoy what this beautiful section of New England has to offer!

Are you road-tripping to Acadia? Have any questions about this drive? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Cape Cod Itinerary

11 Best Things To Do In Camden, Maine

12 Best Things To Do In Rockland, Maine

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

East Coasters know that the oft-traveled Boston to New York to Washington, D.C. route can be a pricey one whether you take a car, plane, train or bus. Travelers who opt to drive between the cities in an effort to save money may now be rethinking that option considering fluctuating gas prices and the maddening traffic jams that are common along the way. In addition, heated competition among JetBlue, Delta, and American Airlines has made flying a much more affordable option. Here we outline four ways to travel to the cities, including the cost, travel time, and pros and cons of each.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Air

Who : Delta Airlines (via La Guardia, JFK, Newark, BWI, Ronald Reagan, and Dulles), American Airlines (via JFK, LaGuardia, and Reagan), and JetBlue (via LaGuardia, Newark, BWI, and Reagan) offer nonstop service between the three cities. United operates the Boston to Newark route and to Dulles and Reagan in D.C. Note that JetBlue does not offer flights from the New York City area to D.C.

Cities Served : Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C.

Cost : Prices and fares vary dramatically based on availability and on the date and time of your flight. However, round-trip fares to and from all three cities tend to stay at or below $150. You should also take into consideration transportation to/from the city center and each airport when comparing prices for Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. via air to other modes of transportation, which typically operate closer to urban centers and points of interest.

Travel Time : Depending on your route, a nonstop flight can last anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours, not including travel time to and from the airport or check-in.

• Many departures. All of these airlines have departures all day long, but you may pay more for prime time. Less expensive fares can sometimes be found early in the morning or late in the evening.
• You’ll earn frequent flyer miles.
• No traffic (except getting to and from the airport).
• American, Delta, and JetBlue operate from New York’s LaGuardia Airport, which is the least convenient of the city’s three airports if you are planning to go to Manhattan via public transportation. However, it’s the closest airport, and the least expensive to travel to and from if you plan to take a taxi or car service.
• Finding the best fare can be time-consuming with so many possible airport combinations, particularly if you’re flying between New York and D.C. as each city is served by three major airports.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Train

Who : Amtrak offers both Acela Express and regional service between the three cities, plus Philadelphia.

Cities Served : There are daily weekday Acela Express round-trips between Washington, D.C. and New York, as well as several daily weekday round-trips between Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. Weekend service runs approximately once every hour between New York and Washington, D.C. about as regularly to/from Boston.

Cost : In comparison to airfare, train service between Boston, New York City, and Washington, D.C. is oftentimes just as expensive, if not more. Amtrak operates both a regional service and “express” service, or the Acela, and charges more for the faster service.

The lowest one-way fares from Boston to New York City on the regional service typically start around $56, while the Acela starts around and $97. The lowest one-way fares from New York City to Boston on the regional service typically start around $54, as compared to about $137 for the Acela service. Prices fluctuate during busier travel times and time of day. The lowest one-way fares from Boston to Washington, D.C. on the regional service typically start around $81 for regional and $144 for Acela. Prices fluctuate during busier travel times and time of day. Unlike with airlines, prices tend to only go up the closer you get to the travel date as select train times sell out. Follow Amtrak on social media as it typically offers fare sales around holidays and during other times of year. Check out its deals page here .

Travel Time : For Acela Express service, plan on about three hours between Washington, D.C. and New York, about seven hours between Washington, D.C. and Boston, and about three and a half hours between New York and Boston. For regional trains, add 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your route. Click here for the Acela Express and Northeast Regional timetables.

• On Acela Express, “Quiet Cars” make for a comfortable and peaceful ride, and conference tables and power outlets allow passengers who wish to work to do so easily. An onboard bistro offers several food and beverage options.
• The train stations in each city are easily accessible from other points in the city.
• For travelers concerned with the environmental impact of their travel, trains are the most eco-friendly option.
• There is free Wi-Fi on the train routes.
• Larger and more comfortable seats than an airplane.
• Regional trains are much less luxurious than the Acela Express, and they stop more frequently.
• With the abundance of flight options, taking the train may prove both more expensive and more time-consuming than flying.

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Bus

Who : Greyhound , “Chinatown” bus services, and several newer bus services. The “Chinatown” buses are called this because they are most often operated by Chinese tour companies and have a pick-up or drop-off point in the city’s Chinatown area. There is also BoltBus , which runs between New York and Boston, and New York and Washington, D.C. (and also stops in Philadelphia). Megabus , which also operates between major U.S. cities; Peter Pan , which operates between major U.S. cities; and Lucky Star , which operates between New York City and Boston.

Cities Served : Boston, New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia.

Cost : Bus fares vary, starting at a measly $1 each way up to about $45. The majority of the “Chinatown” buses cost $15 each way for travel between Boston and New York and about $20 each way for travel between New York and Washington, D.C.

Travel Time : About four hours between Boston and New York in light traffic and about five hours between New York and Washington, D.C. However, all three cities have notoriously heavy traffic patterns, and you’re lucky if your trip is this short.

• The price of the bus is less than you would pay in gas and tolls, and you won’t have to deal with parking once you get to your destination city.
• The “Chinatown” buses require no advance purchase, though many are sold out during rush-hour travel times.
• There are several companies to choose from in each destination city.
• With so many options, you’re unlikely to get shut out, even on busy travel days.
• Travelers are at the mercy of traffic and there may be limited onboard entertainment (although some lines now have added electrical outlets and Wi-Fi to newer buses).
• The “Chinatown” buses can be less reliable than other options, as breakdowns do occur.

To search fares on multiple bus companies at once, try Busbud.com .

Traveling the Boston to New York City to Washington, D.C. Route by Driving

Who : You, traveling in your car. (Under certain circumstances you may want to consider renting a car instead, like if your own vehicle gets poor gas mileage, for example, or if you are leasing your car and don’t want to put too many miles on it.)

Cities Served : Boston, New York, Washington, D.C. and any destination in between.

Cost : Depends on your route and the gas mileage of your vehicle. Assuming you get 25 miles per gallon and gas costs $2.50 per gallon (according to the national average ), you’ll pay about $53 to drive one way from D.C. to Boston. Don’t forget to add in tolls, parking expenses, and rental fees (if applicable). You’ll also want to keep in mind the less tangible wear and tear on your vehicle.

Travel Time : About four hours in light traffic between Washington, D.C. and New York or between New York and Boston.

• You can make your own travel schedule, departing whenever it’s convenient for you and stopping as necessary for food and bathroom breaks.
• The more people traveling in your group, the more cost-effective an option this is.
• If you need a car in your destination city, driving yourself is almost always cheaper than renting a vehicle once you get there.
• You’ll be at the mercy of traffic along your route, particularly if your trip coincides with rush hour in any of these cities.
• Parking downtown in any of these three cities can be inconvenient and expensive.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Top 11 Places to Visit in New York City
• 10 Fun Things to Do in Boston
• 23 Must-See Washington, D.C. Attractions

Editor’s note: This article has been updated since the date of its publication with the input of NYC & Company . Originally written by Genevieve S. Brown; updated by Sarah Schlichter and Ashley Rossi.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Spain: 8-Nt Madrid, Seville, Granada, Valencia...

Luxe, 12-Night Spain, France, Monaco &...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

Boston to DC: Pros and Cons of Travel Options

Last updated on August 31st, 2020 at 11:42 pm

We’ve made the trip between Boston and Washington D.C. many times. Bell’s company’s home office is located in Bethesda, Maryland. Bethesda is conveniently connected to Washington, D.C. via a short 20 minute Red Line metro ride. The first two trips we flew. This time I saved some money off a last minute plane ticket by booking an Amtrak train instead. That turned out to be a disaster due to a February snow storm. Here’s pros and cons of all travel options from Boston to Washington, D.C.

Flying From Boston to Washington, DC

Washington, dc airports and nonstop flights.

There are a lot of flight options between Boston Logan Airport and Washington, DC. Washington, DC is served by three major airports. The three options to fly into are Reagan National Airport (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). Nonstop flights between Washington, DC and Boston are offered by Delta, jetBlue, American Airlines, United, Southwest and Spirit. National Airport is typically the best airport for flying into Washington, DC because it’s the closest airport to downtown Washington and easily accessible by metro.

JetBlue is a Great Flying from Boston to DC

If you fly between Boston and Washington, DC , jetBlue is a great choice as it often ranks as the nations best airline for customer service. Delta and jetBlue are the top two American airlines so those are your best choices.

We enjoy flying jetBlue between D.C. and Boston as they’re our favorite American airline for service, complimentary in-flight entertainment and gourmet snacks. They have direct flights to both Dulles, Reagan National Airport and Baltimore Airport, which is only around 30 miles from D.C. From Dulles you’ll need to catch a shuttle if you don’t want to fork out for a pricy Uber or cab ride. Baltimore airport is connected to Washington D.C. via train to Union Station.

We’ve seen jetBlue run $50 one way promotional fares between Boston and D.C. Obviously prices are usually quite a bit higher and last minute this can be an expensive route. So if the flight between Boston and Washington, DC is expensive, should you catch the train?

Amtrak Train From Boston to DC

Train Station and Amtrak Food

If you’re booking relatively last minute and have the time, Amtrak is OK as one of the travel options between Boston and D.C. You can even use the time to work on the train. Amtrak’s dining car won’t blow your socks off, but it offers a break from what are already comfortable and spacious seats on the train. Unfortunately, the food isn’t very good so don’t board starving! Train travel in the US is generally not as good as western Europe or Japan. Boston’s South Station and D.C.’s Union Station both have better food options than the train. Amtrak train food is basically just microwave food. Take a pass.

Train Delays Can Happen

I had some bad luck taking the train from Boston to Washington, D.C last week. What should have been an 8 hour train ride took 13 hours. First, the train departed 2 and 1/2 hours late. Then the journey took an additional 2 and 1/2 hours due to the snow storm. So instead of arriving at 8:40pm, in time to catch the Washington metro to my hotel, I arrived at 1:40am, exhausted and frustrated. I then needed to wait over an hour for a taxi, part of which was outside in temperatures well below freezing at Union Station.

On the return, Bell joined me on Amtrak for the trip to Boston and we had much better luck. Several inches of snow had already fallen in D.C. before our train was meant to depart. Many flights out of D.C were cancelled. That left some of Bell’s colleagues stuck for another night. We were dubious about the train but it departed on time and while we arrived in Boston 1.5 hours late, weather conditions were bad enough that we were lucky just to get home.

The verdict on American train travel: It’s hit and miss, but when it’s a miss the delays can be major. Then again, you can experience major flight delays too.

Bus From Boston to DC

A lot of buses offer service between Boston and Washington, DC. But unless the flights are expensive and you’re a budget traveler, this is not an ideal option.

I considered buying a bus ticket from Boston to D.C. because the ticket was only $57 and the ride only took a little longer than the non-express train, clocking in at 9+ hours. We’ve traveled roundtrip from Boston to New York City by bus and would do it again, but that ride only takes 3.5 – 4.5 hours, depending on traffic. That’s a big difference compared to over 9 hours on a potentially packed bus. On the train you can move around more and there’s the dining car to escape to. If you’re sitting next to someone you don’t like on a bus, you might not have anywhere else to go! This is important to keep in mind when weighing your travel decision between a bus and a train.

All major buses have free WiFi so you can also work or play on the bus. Wanderu is a great site to check out to view many of the bus options between Boston and Washington, or anywhere else in the United States.

Driving Between Boston and Washington D.C.

If you own a car and are traveling for leisure, driving can be a good option, especially if you want to do some day trips to interesting Washington, DC area attractions like Mount Vernon or nearby wineries in Virginia . Renting a car could also be a good option, but it depends what your priorities are. If you’re visiting D.C for to tour museums and attractions, you may want to leave the car at home. Be careful with rental quotes because insuring a car can cost significantly more than the rate you found if you need to purchase insurance. You can buy third party insurance through third party sites like Hotwire. But you may not be covered for incidentals like loss of revenue for the rental car company while the car is being repaired.

Washington, DC also has some of the worst traffic in the country. You may also encounter heavy traffic along Interstate-95 as it’s often busy. Another downside is high parking fees in Washington, DC – like many cities. But if you do drive, you can stay outside Washington, DC. It is often significantly less, especially when you factor in free overnight parking.

Distance from Boston to Washington, DC

The distance from Boston to D.C. is 440 miles (708 km) and will take a minimum of around 7 hours with no traffic or stops at a sane driving speed. You also won’t be able to get any work done if you’re driving either. Though for some, the drive itself is an excuse not to be working!

What do you think of the travel options between Boston and D.C.? If you have stories to share, let us know in the comments!

More from Wanderlust Marriage

Alex and Bell originally met while solo traveling after finishing university in 2002, in Brugge, Belgium. Alex grew up in the USA and Bell hails from Australia. During our nearly 20 year marriage we've lived around the world, including spending six years living in the Netherlands and Ireland. We have traveled to nearly 70 countries and enjoy giving readers authentic and quality travel tips. Alex is an award winning travel journalist and travel planner, who also freelances for other outlets. Bell is an award winning PhD scientist who currently works for a non-profit lung cancer advocacy research organization called Lungevity. Happy travels and if you have any questions leave a comment or drop an email!

View all posts

Previous Post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

 Yes, add me to your mailing list

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Top Services to Find Road Trip Stopover Spots

swissmediavision/Getty Images 

Whatshalfway.com

Roadtrippers.

While planning a road trip usually begins with a starting location and a destination, the real work starts when it comes to figuring out where to stop, what to see, and how to get there. Your favorite GPS application might show you the quickest route from point A to point B, but that isn't necessarily the best route. Luckily, several different websites and apps can help you design your perfect road trip .

Some of them are best for finding the halfway point between two places so you can split up the trip, while others focus on highlighting the most interesting or unique points of interest. After all, a road trip is all about the journey, and you'll find so many places to stop with these resources that you won't want the adventure to end.

Offering route information for 45 countries, Whatshalfway.com is a simple website that provides your route's midway point as well as suggestions for places to stay, restaurants, and things to do along the route. Simply input your starting and ending point, any cities you want to pass through on the way, and add as many stops as you please. There are also options to avoid tolls and/or highways.

The website will automatically route the trip with evenly spaced suggested stops along the way. The "Click here to find a venue" link will open a new page with all nearby businesses, but these are drawn directly from Google maps so there may not be any businesses, restaurants, or accommodations that suit your personal needs. There's also no way to export or share the list.

You can use MeetWays to find the halfway point between two addresses, with the option to add one point of interest (like a hotel, movie theater, or restaurant). It's available in over 30 countries and displays a list of businesses relevant to your selected point of interest (or a list of nearby restaurants if you leave the point of interest field blank.) However, if you only need the halfway point MeetWays works in an additional how 115 countries

If you want to take the scenic route, you can easily change the settings to avoid highways or toll roads. Routes are easy to share via email or social media but there's no way to edit your starting and ending points nor is there a way to accommodate multiple stops.

Sometimes you just need to find the nearest pitstop that has gas, a bathroom, a decent place to eat, or some combination of the above. The website iExit is perfect for all of that and more. But it shines brightest when you use the mobile app while already on the road.

Easy-to-read images show what's offered at each exit on the interstate you're currently on, making it easy to plan out your pitstops before taking an exit. See gas prices, accommodation options, Wi-Fi availability, and restaurants all conveniently compiled on one page. You can either type in your starting point and destination to see pitstops along the route or use the GPS feature on your phone to find the nearest exits to your current location.

Travelmath will appeal to travelers who like to plan for all aspects of their trips. Simply input in your two cities and Travelmath will tell you the biggest cities or most popular destinations to stop in along the way, along with the distance and time between each one. It will even calculate the estimated cost of driving!

If you aren't sure if taking a car is the right option for your trip, it will also give you a side-by-side comparison of flights and driving details to help you chose the best method.

If you care less about the halfway point and more about the best places to stop, then Roadtrippers is what you're looking for. It's available as a website and mobile app, so you can easily plan from home or while on the road. Just punch in Point A and Point B into the application and Roadtrippers will show you what routes are available plus highly rated points of interest, restaurants, cafes, and hotels along the way.

The site and app are both free to use, but you can pay for a premium version to unlock even more features such as offline use, adding more than five stops, and collaborating with friends.

9 Best Travel Apps for a Great American Road Trip

How to Travel From Chicago to Las Vegas by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Use a Trip Planner Website or App for Budget Travel

Scenic California Drives: 7 Routes That Will Make You Swoon

The Best Road Trips to Take in Hawaii

Planning a Road Trip: The Complete Guide

Tips for Taking a Road Trip With Kids

Getting Around Detroit: Guide to Public Transportation

Best Hotel Booking Sites

The Best National Parks Near Las Vegas

Science Says This Is the Perfect U.S. Road Trip

How to Travel from Frankfurt to Paris by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Getting Around Salt Lake City: Guide to Public Transportation

How to Travel From Florence to Paris by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Spend 5 Days in Ireland

How to Visit Los Angeles Without a Car

• © Roadtrippers
• © Mapbox
• © OpenStreetMap
• Improve this map

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Boston for Attractions, Food, Families, and Nightlife

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Washington or Boston?
• Which is Cheaper, Washington or Boston? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Washington or Boston?

• When to Visit Washington or Boston?

Should you visit Washington or Boston?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Boston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Boston is a proud, loyal, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Washington and Boston: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Numerous theater shows
• Active nightlife
• Good music scene
• Good for hiking
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Big city activities
• Impressive beauty
• Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
• Less popular with backpackers
• Popular beach
• Scenic old town
• Known for Christmas markets
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Home to the Freedom Trail

Is there more to do in Washington or Boston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston. Although Washington and Boston are roughly the same size, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, and christmas markets, while Washington is known for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

How is Washington different from Boston?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston and Washington. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Washington or Boston?

Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either Washington or Boston.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Theater?

There are high quality theater venues available in both Washington and Boston.

Washington has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Is the Food Better in Washington or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Washington , as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Washington and Boston.

Many people head to Washington for the nightlife scene. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Music?

Washington and Boston are both destinations where visitors can find good live music.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is adequate for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Hiking?

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Boston?

Washington is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Washington is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Christmas?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences.

Washington is a fantastic destination at Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Washington does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Washington does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Couples?

Washington is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Boston is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Students?

For students, both Washington and Boston are first-rate places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Is Washington or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington and Boston both offer first-rate public transit to get you around.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Is Washington or Boston a more walkable city?

Washington and Boston are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

It is easy to get around Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Boston or Washington?

How long in washington or boston.

In either Washington or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Washington. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Washington than Boston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Washington that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Washington if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Boston.

• How many days in Washington or Boston? Ideal Length of Stay Washington 3-7   Boston   3-5

One day in Washington or Boston?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With theater and nightlife around the proud city of Boston, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Boston?

Washington is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With nightlife and live music around the big city destination of Boston, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Boston, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Boston?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America , The Best Historical Tours in United States of America , and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America .

Which place is cheaper, Boston or Washington?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Washington Prices USA Prices Boston Prices USA Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Washington $ 198 Boston $ 255

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $198, while the average daily cost in Boston is $255. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Washington and Boston in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Washington $ 113 Boston $ 166
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Washington $ 226 Boston $ 332

Compare Hotels in Washington and Boston

Looking for a hotel in Washington or Boston? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Washington

Hotels in Boston

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Washington $ 47 Boston $ 37

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:

• Metro Day Pass $ 9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
• Private Departure Transfer to Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $48
• Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $52
• Transfer in private car from Washington Ronald Reagan Airport to Washington City: $53
• Private Departure Transfer to Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
• Washington City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $63
• Private Transfer- Dulles Airport (IAD) to Washington City Center: $81
• Transfer in private vehicle from Washington City to Dulles Airport: $88
• Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
• Transfer from Ronald Reagan Airport DCA to Washington DC by SUV: $93
• Arrival Transfer Dulles Airport IAD to Washington DC by Sedan: $106
• Washington DC: DCA Private Transfer from/to Downtown: $110

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:

• Subway Daily Pass $ 9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

• Luxor Limo Private Transfer and City Tour: $1,195
• Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Boston: $959
• Flynn Cruiseport Private Transfer to Boston: $684
• Round trip Airport Transfer: Logan - Boston: $300
• Boston Logan Airport to Killington/Okemo Private Transfer: $283
• Boston Logan Airport (BOS): Private Transfer to Boston city: $243
• Boston’s Logan International Airport to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $170
• Boston Airport (BOS): Transfer to Flynn Cruise Port Boston: $168
• Limo Private Transfer Boston to Logan International Airport : $160
• Limo Private Transfer Logan International Airport to Boston: $160
• Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $160
• Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $157

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Boston?

Prices for flights to both Boston and Washington change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Washington $ 38 Boston $ 49

Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:

• Water $ 2.00
• Snacks on Monuments Tour $ 6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Little Ethiopia Food Tour: $67
• DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $69
• Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
• DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $74
• Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $85
• Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $97
• Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
• Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
• Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
• Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
• Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise: $144
• Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $151

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.

• AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
• Boston's North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour: $49
• North End Pizza Tour with 3 Slices and Cannoli: $55
• Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $60
• North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $68
• Boston Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
• Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor: $77
• Ultimate Food Tour of North End & Public Market: $79
• Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour : $81
• Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour: $90
• Ultimate Boston Food Tour: North End & Boston Public Market: $99
• Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $108

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Washington $ 24 Boston $ 33

Tours and Activities in Washington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.

• Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Washington: $5.44
• The Kennedy Homes of Georgetown: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• DC's Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• Scandals & Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• Washington D.C.’s Tidal Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• Washington, DC: Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• The Kennedy Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• Blossoming Friendship: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Washington D.C.’s Tidal Basin: $5.99
• Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Washington DC: $5.99
• Washington DC: National Mall Self Guided App Walking Tour: $6.50
• Lincoln Memorial to the Cap Hill D.C. Smart Phone App/GPS Tour: $6.75
• Washington DC Outdoor Escape Game Tour: FBI vs. Bank Robbers: $7.08

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:

• Two Tickets to Celtics Game $ 101
• Duck Tour $ 32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

• "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $25
• "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $25
• 1 If By Land Walking Tours: History Walking Tour of Boston: $45
• 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with Harbor Cruise Option: $46
• 1-Day Tour to Portland-Maine from Boston: $175
• 1692 Salem Day Tour: $32
• 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $32
• 2 Hour North End 'Little Italy' Walking Tour : $35
• 2-Hour Beacon Hill True Crime Expert Guided Tour: $35
• 90-Minute Boston Harbor Sunset Sightseeing Cruise: $48
• A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $216
• A Bostonian Christmas Tour: $423

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston , Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston , and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids .

• Alcohol Drinks for one day Washington $ 19 Boston $ 27

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

• Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
• DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $35
• Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.: $59
• Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
• DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
• DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
• From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
• Full-Day Private Virginia Wine Tour Experience from Washington : $242
• Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

• Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
• Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $30
• Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
• Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $35
• Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
• History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $59
• Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl: $60
• Boston Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
• Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $105

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Washington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Washington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Washington and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Washington.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Washington Expensive? and Is Boston Expensive? .

Boston has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Boston, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Washington or Boston?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Washington or Boston in the Summer?

Both Boston and Washington during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Washington is a little warmer than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Washington. In the summer, Washington often gets less sunshine than Boston. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in July than Boston. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Washington 79°F (26°C)   Boston   73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Washington or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Boston. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Washington is a little warmer than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Boston during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives less rain than Boston. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Washington 60°F (15°C)   Boston   54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Washington or Boston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Washington as well as Boston. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

It's quite cold in Boston in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. In January, Washington is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets less sunshine than Boston. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Washington 35°F (1°C)   Boston   29°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Washington or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Washington is much warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Boston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Boston during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Boston. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Washington 56°F (14°C)   Boston   48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Boston and Washington

Related articles for washington, related articles for boston.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies , plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers!

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.

• Privacy / Terms of Use
• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

• International

Nationwide campus protests

What's moving markets today

Police on campus at Columbia and UCLA as protests disrupt colleges nationwide

By Elizabeth Wolfe, Kathleen Magramo, Dalia Faheid, Antoinette Radford, Emma Tucker, Anna Cooban, Rachel Ramirez, Aditi Sangal, Elise Hammond, Maureen Chowdhury, Lauren Mascarenhas, Chandelis Duster and Tori B. Powell, CNN

Student journalists assaulted and others arrested as protests on college campuses turn violent

From CNN’s Hadas Gold

Journalists tasked with covering violent unrest on college campuses across the US have been assaulted, arrested and barred access as police moved in to crack down on pro-Palestinian protesters who set up encampments and barricaded themselves inside buildings.

On some college campuses, access has been restricted to students only, effectively making student journalists the only reliable news media reporting on the protests and clashes.

At the University of California, Los Angeles, reporters for the student-run newspaper The Daily Bruin said they were violently attacked during clashes Tuesday night, including being followed, slapped and sprayed with irritants, the newspaper said. Student Editor Dai-Liu told CNN she was gassed, and other student reporters were assaulted, with one reporter being taken to emergency care.

The newspaper did not state who assaulted the student journalists, but the violence came as counterprotesters, some of whom were supporting Israel, clashed with pro-Palestinian demonstrators.

Hundreds of miles away at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt , three journalists were detained while covering campus protests, according to a  local public radio outlet , including a television news reporter who was arrested while filming the demonstrations.

At Columbia University in New York, journalists said they were barred from covering the unrest Tuesday night as police officers in riot gear breached an academic building where demonstrators were barricaded, resulting in more than 100 arrests.

Of the 280 arrested at Columbia University, it's not clear how many were outsiders, DA says

From CNN's Nic F. Anderson and Michelle Watson  

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said he does not have a breakdown of who among the 280 people arrested during the recent Columbia University protests were outsiders.

It's, "certainly something we will learn as we proceed," Bragg said. "My impression in real time was that these cases are going to come to this office and we're going to do what we always do which is apply the facts to the law."  

Of the 280 arrests, at least 170 were summonses and the remaining are Desk Appearance Tickets (DATs) or are "cases that are making their way through the system today and this evening," Bragg said. 

The DA said he intends to look at each case and make decisions based on facts and the law.

Remember: New York City Mayor Eric Adams claimed Wednesday there were people on the Columbia campus who should not have been there.

"There were people who are professionals and we saw evidence of training, we saw a shift in tactics that were being used and when you start using the intelligence that intel was able to supply, we knew it was time to communicate directly with the school and say, 'You have more than a peaceful protest on your hands,'" Adams said during a news conference.

NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism Rebecca Weiner added that sifting through the names of individuals arrested to determine whether or not they're affiliated with the universities will "take time."

Officers in riot gear gather outside Fordham University's Lincoln Center campus

From CNN’s Sabrina Souza and Shimon Prokupecz

New York Police Department officers in riot gear are gathered outside Fordham University’s Lincoln Center campus in New York City at this hour.

Dozens of protesters are on the nearby sidewalk behind barricades chanting, waving Palestinian flags and standing arm in arm.

“Free, free Palestine,” is one of the recurring chants.

House passes antisemitism bill that would broaden definition as campus protests continue

From CNN's Clare Foran, Kristin Wilson and Haley Talbot

The House has passed a bill that would more broadly expand the definition of antisemitism. It comes as pro-Palestinian protests have sprung up on college campuses across the country, much in response to the Israel-Hamas war.

Supporters of the legislation say it will help combat antisemitism on college campuses, but opponents say it overreaches and threatens to chill free speech.

The vote was 320 -91 with 70 Democrats and 21 Republicans voting against the bill.

The bill would mandate that when the Department of Education enforces federal anti-discrimination laws it uses a definition of antisemitism put forward by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance. 

Critics of the bill argue that definition is overly expansive and could lead to censorship issues.

Group with pro-Palestinian banners gather at Emory

From CNN’s Nick Valencia and Jade Gordon

A group of protesters carrying pro-Palestinian signs gathered outside of Emory University’s undergraduate admissions building on Wednesday.

A police officer stood inside the door of the building. A small group of protesters gathered inside the building. 

“We came to ask for the University President, Gregory L. Fenves, to come meet with us. He wouldn’t. We left voluntarily on our own accord,” Neeti Patel, president of the Emory graduate student government told CNN.

A group of protesters walked out of the admissions building chanting and clapping after making their demand. 

The event appears non-confrontational thus far.

Protesters lock arms at University of Wisconsin-Madison after police tore down encampment this morning

From CNN's Elise Hammond

Protesters at the University of Wisconsin-Madison locked arms during a demonstration at the Library Mall on Wednesday, just hours after law enforcement tore down tents this morning.

At least 34 people were arrested , a majority of whom "were released with no citation issued," according to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department.

Hundreds of people remain around the Library Mall on Wednesday afternoon. Tents appeared to be  back up after police left the premises.

Some people were holding signs that read “Free Palestine” as law enforcement personnel looked on from the outskirts of the encampment. Other people stood silently with their eyes closed.

Here’s what the scene looks like:

Trump said watching NYPD clear out protesters at Columbia "was a beautiful thing to watch”

From CNN's Kate Sullivan

Former President Donald Trump on Wednesday described watching New York police officers clear the Columbia University building that was being occupied by pro-Palestinian protesters as "a beautiful thing to watch.”

“The police came in and in exactly two hours, everything was over. It was a beautiful thing to watch, New York’s finest," Trump said during a rally in Waukesha, Wisconsin. "You saw them go up in ladders, they’re breaking the windows and getting in and that’s dangerous… They knocked it out and they were incredible."

Trump said he thought Columbia University’s reputation had been “badly damaged,” criticizing school President Minouche Shafik. 

“The person that heads it up, a woman, she waited so long, she was so weak, she was so afraid, she was so bad,” Trump said.

Shafik addressed the campus community in a letter released Wednesday after police had cleared the school grounds of protests, noting that the “drastic escalation” of months-long protests “pushed the University to the brink."

Portland State University negotiations fall through, but 50 protesters leave occupied library, president says

From CNN’s Veronica Miracle and Jeffrey Kopp

Negotiations with student protesters at Portland State University who occupied a campus library fell through early Wednesday, but about 50 people left the building on their own, the university's president said.

Between 50 and 75 protesters broke into the Branford Price Millar Library on Monday, Portland Police Chief Bob Day previously told CNN. 

Negotiators for the students occupying the building indicated they would sign an agreement to leave the building by 1:30 a.m. local time, president Ann Cudd said. She said she guaranteed the students would not be expelled or suspended and would not face criminal charges — in exchange, the students agreed to not violate codes of conduct. The president said she also agreed to meet with student leaders on May 17 to continue talks.

“I feverishly wish that the students in the library had signed on to our agreement, but, after their negotiators told us they had a deal, they apparently chose not to sign,” Cudd said. It doesn’t appear that there are many students left inside the building Wednesday, CNN observed.  

Cudd said it is her understanding that some people inside the library are not students. Graffiti on the library building reads “Free Gaza” and “To Gaza with love.”

“Many of us have seen the vandalism to our library and while the cost of property damage cannot compare to the cost of human lives, this destructive protest is weighing heavy on our campus community who collectively pay for our facilities and expect and deserve to use them in a setting that is welcoming to all students," the president said.

Palestinian-American professor at University of Wisconsin-Madison injured in altercation with campus police

From CNN's Fabiana Chaparro and Kara Devlin

In a photo shared with CNN by Tyler Katzenberger from the college paper The Daily Cardinal, Samer Alatout, an associate professor of community and environmental sociology, is seen being held to the ground by University of Wisconsin-Madison police officers. 

In an interview with CNN affiliate WMTV, Alatout said police came to the on-campus pro-Palestinian demonstration with riot gear and began breaking up the protest. He added that protests held for the past two days had been "really beautiful, peaceful," with students from different religious and ethnic backgrounds protesting together.

Alatout noted there were several university faculty and staff members present as well. 

The University of Wisconsin-Madison would not confirm to CNN whether Alatout had been among those arrested earlier Wednesday. According to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department, a total of 34 people were arrested, a majority of whom "were released with no citation issued." 

"Today it seems the administration has decided to give the green light for the police force to go in and break up the protest," said Alatout, adding that the police were charging "violently" at the demonstrators.

"I think it is racially motivated," Alatout told WMTV. "I'm the only Palestinian-American professor who is advising, for example, a student group here and who has been involved with the staff and faculty. Everyone in the administration knows me." 

Alatout said that police officers hit him several times with their shields and "popped" him on his nose and forehead. They also pulled him to the ground several times, he said. 

CNN has reached out to university police for more details, including whether Alatout was among the people arrested.

"I cannot leave the students alone, period. That's my first and foremost obligation," Alatout said.

Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Campus protests over the Gaza war

As student protesters get arrested, they risk being banned from campus too.

Rachel Treisman

Jaclyn Diaz

Dozens of tents are seen on a lawn inside the Columbia University Campus after students refused to take down the encampment by the 2 p.m. EDT deadline given to students protesting by Columbia President Minouche Shafik. Luiz C. Ribeiro/Tribune News Service/Getty Images hide caption

Dozens of tents are seen on a lawn inside the Columbia University Campus after students refused to take down the encampment by the 2 p.m. EDT deadline given to students protesting by Columbia President Minouche Shafik.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators continue to turn out at schools across the country despite the risk of detention and suspension, with nearly 300 more protesters arrested over the weekend .

At Columbia University, where a pro-Palestinian encampment has catalyzed dozens of similar demonstrations across the nation, student protesters face threats of punishment, with some students already receiving word of their suspension.

On Monday morning, Columbia University President Minouche Shafik announced that in, negotiations over the encampment, faculty leaders and student organizers were not able to reach an agreement .

The university gave students until 2 p.m. ET to disperse and abandon the encampments or else face suspension pending further investigation, according to flyers it distributed on campus .

Columbia University spokesman Ben Chang confirmed to reporters that some students taking part in the pro-Palestinian encampment who refused to leave at that deadline were suspended. It's unclear how many students will receive that punishment.

Chang said the move is required to preserve campus safety.

Hundreds of students at a pro-Palestinian demonstration at Columbia University's campus. Brian Mann hide caption

Hundreds of students at a pro-Palestinian demonstration at Columbia University's campus.

Students who voluntarily left the encampment and signed a copy of a form committing to abide by university policies will be on academic probation through June 2025, according to the flyers. Those who remained past the deadline were told they will be restricted from all Columbia campuses and property and ineligible to participate in classes and academic or extracurricular activities.

"You are not permitted to complete the Spring 2024 semester, including participate in classes or exams in-person or remotely or otherwise submit assignments or engage in any activities affiliated with Columbia University," the notice dispersed on campus reads. "You may lose the semester. If you are scheduled to graduate, you are no longer eligible."

Dozens of New York police officers gathered outside the campus gates about an hour ahead of the deadline.

Many students remained despite the threats, saying they have no plans to leave unless the university meets its demand to divest from companies they say are aiding Israel's war in Gaza. After the flyers were distributed, Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine posted on X urging students not to sign anything.

Roughly 100 officers in uniform gathered at Columbia University's campus in the leadup to its 2 p.m. deadline for students to disperse from the encampment that's been up for nearly two weeks. Brian Mann/NPR hide caption

Roughly 100 officers in uniform gathered at Columbia University's campus in the leadup to its 2 p.m. deadline for students to disperse from the encampment that's been up for nearly two weeks.

"We will not be moved by these intimidation tactics. You can see the students are mobilized. There's hundreds of them here today. They will not be moved. We demand divestment, we will not be moved unless by force," Seuda Polat, a Columbia University graduate student, said during a press conference Monday.

Polat continued, "There has been no violence on this encampment. Students from diverse backgrounds have shared their religious observances together. We've celebrated Passover, we've celebrated shabbat twice. This is a place of community, of community learning, not violence."

Police continue to arrest protesters across the country

On Sunday, pro-Palestinian protesters and pro-Israeli protesters clashed at the University of California, Los Angeles, leading to what university leaders described as "physical altercations" and prompting them to increase security measures on campus.

Nearly 300 people arrested at campus protests against the war in Gaza this weekend

At Virginia Tech University, police arrested scores of protesters in the early hours of Monday morning. Virginia Tech Police confirmed early Monday evening that 82 individuals, 53 of whom are current students at the university, were arrested and all were charged with trespassing.

The school had warned of "heavy police activity around the Graduate Life Center" in a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter) starting just after 10 p.m. ET on Sunday, and announced around 3:30 a.m. that the incident " had stabilized ." Social media footage shows protesters chanting at police as they lead people into multiple white vans.

Elsewhere in the state, 12 protesters — including nine students — were arrested at the University of Mary Washington on Saturday evening after refusing to vacate an encampment on its Fredericksburg, Va., campus. University President Troy Paino said in a statement that health and safety concerns had emerged on Saturday after protestors invited the off-campus public to join the encampment.

A man holds up a Palestinian flag as activists and students surround piled barricades at an encampment at at George Washington University early Monday. Kent Nishimura/Getty Images hide caption

A man holds up a Palestinian flag as activists and students surround piled barricades at an encampment at at George Washington University early Monday.

Meanwhile, protests at George Washington University in D.C. are stretching into their fifth day on Monday — the last day of class for the semester — after a tense weekend, culminating in a clash between protesters and police.

Students first set up an encampment on University Yard on Thursday and later launched a second one on nearby H Street after the school put up barricades to restrict access.

The Picture Show

Photos: take a look at campus protests around the country.

Shortly before midnight on Sunday, protesters knocked down the barricades — piling them in a stack in the middle of the lawn — and flooded the lawn, with people remaining there overnight in some 85 tents, the GW Hatchet reports .

GW officials said in a statement early Monday that a group of "approximately 200 protesters from across [D.C., Maryland and Virginia], including professional organizers, activists, and university students, have joined the unauthorized encampment on our campus."

"This is an egregious violation of community trust and goes far beyond the boundaries of free expression and the right to protest," they added. "The university will use every avenue available to ensure those involved are held accountable for their actions."

Schools are alternately threatening and disavowing disciplinary action

Students arrested at Emerson College last week won't face disciplinary action from the school, its president announced. Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Students arrested at Emerson College last week won't face disciplinary action from the school, its president announced.

One question on the minds of many is what, if any, disciplinary action student protesters might face from their schools, especially with finals and graduation fast approaching.

Some universities have suspended — or threatened to suspend — students who have been arrested for protesting, while others have said they will not.

Students have been suspended for protesting at George Washington University , Princeton University , Washington University in St. Louis , Pomona College and Vanderbilt University , according to reports.

Barnard College officials announced Friday that it will allow most of the 53 students who were arrested and suspended after protesting at Columbia University to return to campus. The New York Times reports that suspended students who reached agreements with the college have their access to residence halls, dining facilities and classrooms restored, while others are still working to reach agreements.

Middle East crisis — explained

Across the u.s., pro-palestinian campus protesters risk arrest and suspension.

On Sunday, Jay Bernhardt, the president of Emerson College in Boston — where more than 100 protesters were arrested at an encampment early Thursday morning — said the college will not bring disciplinary charges against protesters, and will "encourage the district attorney not to pursue charges related to encampment violations."

He said it is also taking steps to support students who were arrested, including posting bail for them and providing housing support to those who are required to stay local for court appearances after the closing of their dorms.

"The College has done its best to keep all community members safe every day during these challenging times, but we recognize that we must do more," he added.

In Texas, the Travis County district attorney has dropped misdemeanor trespassing charges against all 57 people arrested during a protest at UT-Austin last week, after a judge found insufficient evidence to proceed.

Law enforcement arrest a pro-Palestinian protestor on April 29, 2024, at the University of Texas at Austin. Michael Minasi/KUT hide caption

Law enforcement arrest a pro-Palestinian protestor on April 29, 2024, at the University of Texas at Austin.

But on Monday, around 100 protesters gathered at UT-Austin and set up a new encampment on the campus' south lawn, according to NPR member station KUT. By mid-afternoon, state, city and university police were on hand, breaking up the gathering.

Elsewhere, some schools are threatening disciplinary action for students who don't comply with directives to leave encampments that they say violate their policies.

Officials at the University of Florida, where students began protesting on Wednesday, said Friday that demonstrators could face suspension and a three-year ban from campus if they violate specific protest rules, reports member station WUFT .

They are prohibited from using bullhorns or speakers to amplify their voices, possessing weapons and protesting inside campus buildings — but also face more vague prohibitions like "no disruption," according to a list circulated late Thursday.

"They also included 'no sleeping' on a campus where students often doze in the sun between classes," per WUFT.

Mass arrests roil college campuses amid pro-Palestinian protests

At Cal Poly Humboldt, officials closed campus to the public on Saturday, several days after student protesters first occupied two academic and administrative buildings. They had previously given protesters until 5 p.m. on Friday to leave with a guarantee of no immediate arrest — but said they would still face consequences.

"This does not, however, eliminate University conduct-related sanctions or legal implications," officials said in a release. "In addition, voluntarily departing in this way will be considered as a mitigating factor in University conduct processes and may reduce the severity of sanctions imposed."

The campus will remain closed until May 10, with work and classes remote through the end of the semester. Officials say they are planning for "various scenarios" for commencement.

At Massachusetts Institute of Technology, president Sally Kornbluth said in a Sunday message to students that their growing encampment violates policies around registering for campus demonstrations and creates a "potential magnet for disruptive outside protestors."

She said rules have been broken, and those who break them — "including rules around the time, place and manner of protest" — will face disciplinary action.

"We are open to further discussion about the means of ending the encampment," she added. "But this particular form of expression needs to end soon."

Northwestern reaches a deal with protesters

Signs are displayed outside a tent encampment at Northwestern University on Friday in Evanston, Illinois. Students and the university reached a deal Monday, allowing the demonstrations to continue, but that mandated the removal of all but one of these tents. Teresa Crawford/AP hide caption

Signs are displayed outside a tent encampment at Northwestern University on Friday in Evanston, Illinois. Students and the university reached a deal Monday, allowing the demonstrations to continue, but that mandated the removal of all but one of these tents.

Northwestern University reached an agreement Monday with students and faculty protesting against the war, as demonstrations continued at other campuses across the country.

The deal was struck five days after students erected an encampment on Deering Meadow, a common area on the university's Evanston campus.

The agreement allows demonstrations to continue until the end of spring quarter classes on June 1, "provided all such activity immediately and continuously complies with University policies," Northwestern officials said in a statement.

The school will allow one aid tent to remain at the encampment on Deering Meadow but is demanding all other tents and sound systems be taken down.

"This agreement also addresses our commitment to protect the safety of our entire community and to ensure the ongoing academic operations of our campus while adhering to our support for free expression," Northwestern President Michael Schill wrote in an announcement posted on the school's website. "The agreement includes support for our Muslim, Arab and Palestinian students. Some of the actions have been discussed for years and some are new. Together, they will strengthen our community."

As part of the agreement, the university has promised to fund two Palestinian faculty members per year for two years and to provide scholarships for five Palestinian undergraduates.

Some faculty are calling for amnesty

Students and faculty at some universities are calling on their administrations not to discipline protesters. Arrested protesters face uncertainty about not only their legal records but the status of campus housing, financial aid and graduation eligibility.

At the University of Pennsylvania , officials say a campus statue was vandalized with antisemitic graffiti and are calling on demonstrators — from Penn and other area schools — to disband.

A group of Penn faculty and Philadelphia-area elected officials signed a letter last week urging university leaders to "respect students' rights to engage in nonviolent protest" by refraining from calling in law enforcement to make arrests and from filing disciplinary and criminal charges against peaceful protesters at the encampment.

"Protesters nationwide face police violence and severe discipline, and the safety and wellbeing of Philadelphia students exercising their rights are among our foremost concerns," they wrote.

In Columbia University's protests of 1968 and 2024, what's similar — and different

Nearly 300 faculty members at Yale University, where 48 protesters were arrested last week, signed a letter condemning what they called "the criminalization of Yale students engaged in recent acts of peaceful protest." They demanded that the university take no further disciplinary action and called on authorities to drop all charges against them.

They said the protesters arrested face Class A misdemeanors under Connecticut law, which carry possible penalties of up to 364 days in jail.

"Threatening students with sanctions of this kind is unconscionable and should not be the means by which Yale responds to peaceful protest," they added.

In a further sign of discontent, faculty members at universities in California, Georgia and Texas have either initiated or passed largely symbolic votes of no confidence in their leadership, according to the Associated Press .

• campus protests
• student protests
• Israel-Hamas war

House and Senate negotiate bill to help FAA add more air traffic controllers and safety inspectors

The Associated Press

April 29, 2024, 5:20 PM

• Share This:
• share on facebook
• share on threads
• share on linkedin
• share on email

Congressional negotiators have agreed on a $105 billion bill designed to improve the safety of air travel after a series of close calls between planes at the nation’s airports.

House and Senate lawmakers said Monday that the bill will increase the number of air traffic controllers and require the Federal Aviation Administration to use new technology designed to prevent collisions between planes on runways.

Lawmakers agreed to prohibit airlines from charging extra for families to sit together, and they tripled maximum fines for airlines that violate consumer laws. However, they left out other consumer protections proposed by the Biden administration.

The bill was negotiated by Republicans and Democrats who lead the House and Senate committees overseeing the FAA, which has been under scrutiny since it approved Boeing jets that were quickly involved in two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019. The legislation will govern FAA operations for the next five years.

The Senate could vote on the 1,069-page measure as early as next week, but it could be delayed if senators try to attach unrelated bills. FAA is operating under a temporary authorization that expires May 10, and Congress might need to pass another extension.

The House approved its version of the bill last year, but a Senate committee approved a different version in February after fights over several provisions, including ones dealing with the training and retirement age of pilots.

In the end, negotiators dropped a House provision raising the mandatory retirement age for airline pilots to 67; it will remain at 65. Both chambers had already sidestepped a highly charged issue by narrowly rejecting a proposal backed by small airlines to let aspiring pilots count more time spent in simulators instead of flying planes toward reaching minimum experience standards.

The FAA has a shortage of about 3,000 air traffic controllers nationwide. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., chair of the Senate Commerce Committee and one of the negotiators, said the final bill shows “that aviation safety and stronger consumer standards are a big priority …. It is also the first major upgrade to air traffic controller hiring in decades.”

One of the most contentious issues in the bill turns out to be a provision that would allow an additional 10 flights per day longer than 1,250 miles to and from Reagan Washington National Airport, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. Delta Air Lines and some Western lawmakers wanted to add 56 flights. The House said no, but a Senate committee approved 10 flights, or five round trips — and that made it into the final bill.

“We were pushing for more, but if we get five, we’ll take five,” Delta CEO Ed Bastian said in an interview this month.

United Airlines — which dominates less-convenient Dulles Airport, 25 miles west of the nation’s capital — opposed the idea. Lawmakers from Virginia and Maryland said Monday they were “deeply frustrated” at the provision, arguing that National is already too busy. They pointed to a close call there between two planes earlier in April, calling it a “flashing red warning light.”

Lawmakers in both chambers rejected a proposal from consumer groups to give state officials power to regulate airlines, but the administration separately cut a deal letting 15 mostly Democratic states help the U.S. Transportation Department enforce federal consumer-protection rules.

Some other provisions in the bill:

— The Transportation Department will create a “dashboard” so consumers can compare seat sizes on all the airlines, but lawmakers stopped short of setting a minimum size.

— The bill would write into law that airlines must pay a refund to customers for flight delays – at three hours for a domestic flight and six for an international one. The Transportation Department issued a similar regulation last week, but laws are harder for future administrations to change.

— When airlines offer travel credits instead of a refund, the credits must be valid for least five years.

— Maximum civil penalties against airlines that violate consumer-protection laws would triple, from $25,000 to $75,000.

— Starting next year, new airline planes must have cockpit voice recorders capable of saving 25 hours of audio, up from the current two hours, to help investigators. This won’t apply retroactively to planes already in use.

— Requires the FAA to increase oversight of aircraft repair shops in other countries, a key demand in recent years by U.S. airline unions, which claim the foreign shops aren’t as safe.

— Requires the FAA to create a new system for tracking and locating high-altitude balloons. This became an issue in February 2023 when a Chinese balloon drifted across the entire U.S. The military shot it down off South Carolina, but not before Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled a high-level visit to China in response to the incident.

Mary Clare Jalonick in Washington contributed to this report. Koenig reported from Dallas.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

Related News

26 Republican attorneys general sue to block Biden rule requiring background checks at gun shows

Duane Eddy, twangy guitar hero of early rock, dead at age 86

Vendor that mishandled Pennsylvania virus data to pay $2.7 million in federal whistleblower case

Recommended.

DC mayor reacts to Republican lawmakers’ criticism of GW University protest response

New feature on Metro fare gates will stop this from happening 4,000 times a day

Automakers could soon be required to install AM radios in new models

Related categories:.