Southern New England Road Trip

229.4 miles: 5 hours, 19 minutes

Along this route, you’ll walk in the footsteps of the nation’s founding fathers along Boston’s Freedom Trail and explore the petite state capital of Providence. You’ll also witness the seafaring traditions of days past in the re-created coastal village of Mystic, and relish Gilded Age remnants as you tour Newport’s grand summer “cottages.”

Wikimedia Commons/Ingfbruno

Boston, MA to Mystic, CT

101.8 miles: 2 hours, 12 minutes

Boston’s twisting labyrinth is a vehicular nightmare to the uninitiated. So, park your car and stroll along the Freedom Trail, which travels past several important Revolutionary sights—Boston Common’s information center is a good starting point. In Providence, several landmarks bear the name of Roger Williams, who created a community based on religious freedom.

Recommended Stops

Faneuil Hall

1 Faneuil Hall Square Boston, MA 02109

Old North Church

193 Salem St. Boston, MA 02113

Old State House

206 Washington St. Boston, MA 02109

Roger Williams Park

1000 Elmwood Ave. Providence, RI 02905

Courtesy of Mystic Seaport

Mystic, CT to Boston, MA

127.6 miles: 3 hours, 7 minutes

A maritime flavor is reflected in Mystic’s quaint architecture and curious shops. In a city defined by water, aquatic sightseeing is a popular pastime. Similarly, Newport is a renowned recreational sailing hub with a rich marine heritage. The town was a 19th-century hot spot for the uber-rich, and several of their lavish estates can be glimpsed via the Cliff Walk.

Recommended Stops

Mystic Aquarium

55 Coogan Blvd. Mystic, CT 06355

Mystic Seaport Museum

75 Greenmanville Ave. Mystic, CT 06355-0990

The Breakers

44 Ochre Point Avenue Newport, RI 02840

Marble House

596 Bellevue Ave. Newport, RI 02840