Road Trip: The Travel Time Between Boston and Plymouth

Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a relaxing day trip, Plymouth, Massachusetts, is a popular destination for visitors in the Boston area. Are you wondering how long it takes to drive from Boston to Plymouth? The answer is not so straightforward, but we've got you covered.

The Classic Route: I-93 South and MA-3 South

The most direct and commonly taken route from Boston to Plymouth is via interstate highway 93 South, followed by MA-3 South towards Plymouth. This route covers a distance of about 41 miles and usually takes around 50 minutes to an hour.

While driving straight through without stopping is always an option, we recommend making a few pit stops for a glimpse of the stunning coastline, which lies just off the highway. One great option is to stop at the Wompatuck State Park in Hingham, where you can stroll through the park and enjoy nature. Another option is to visit the South Shore Plaza in Braintree, a popular mall with plenty of shops and dining options.

The Coastal Route: MA-3A South

If you're looking for a more scenic route, we suggest taking the coastal route from Boston to Plymouth via MA-3A South. This route covers a slightly longer distance of about 45 miles, but the drive itself is breathtaking. You'll get to drive along the beautiful coastline, passing through quaint towns and communities such as Scituate, Cohasset, and Duxbury.

Though this route will take you about an hour and a half, make sure to take the extra time to stop and explore the various towns along the way. Scituate Harbor is a perfect spot to grab lunch while enjoying the view of boats in the water. Or, you can stop at the North River Wildlife Sanctuary in Marshfield and take a hike in their spacious open preserve.

The Historical Route: Route 3A South

Travelers who are interested in exploring historical landmarks may prefer driving on Route 3A South instead of the highways, a scenic road that takes you past numerous historical sites and attractions.

From Boston, head south and take a right onto Atlantic Avenue. From there, turn left onto Purchase Street and merge onto Route 3A South. The distance from Boston to Plymouth via Route 3A South is around 45 miles, and the trip generally takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Along the way, pop over to the Adams National Historical Park in Quincy or explore the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. You can also stop over in Marshfield and visit the Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can learn more about local wildlife and enjoy nature.

Final Thoughts

The travel time between Boston and Plymouth and the route taken depends on personal preference. Those who want a more direct route may choose the classic route, while others may opt for the coastal route to experience charming communities. Whatever road you take, there are plenty of pit stops available to make the journey an enjoyable one.

Overall, expect to spend anywhere from 50 minutes to an hour and a half traveling from Boston to Plymouth by car. However, we recommend allowing for extra time to stop and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and rich history of Massachusetts.