Road Trip! Discover the Best Route From Amherst, NH, to Lansdowne, PA

Are you in the mood for a road trip? Ready to explore the scenic highways between Amherst, New Hampshire and Lansdowne, Pennsylvania? Buckle up because we have three routes for you to choose from. Depending on your preference, schedule, and a desire to explore some hidden gems along the way, we have the perfect driving directions to make your journey unforgettable!

The Direct Route: I-495 S and I-95 S

Let's start with the direct route that will take you from Amherst to Lansdowne in just under six hours. Take I-495 South for almost 10 miles, merging onto I-95 South. Follow I-95 through Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, and finally into Pennsylvania. This route is the shortest one, covering 340 miles in total.

Keep in mind that I-95 is a heavily trafficked interstate highway so you might encounter some congestion during peak hours. However, you'll also have numerous opportunities to stop and grab a bite, admire a beautiful view or visit a charming town. For lunch, we recommend stopping at The Place - a seafood shack in Guilford, Connecticut or Mystic Pizza, in Mystic, Connecticut, home to the iconic film of the same name.

The Coastal Route: I-84 W and I-95 S

If you're in the mood for some coastal scenery and sea air, the coastal route is for you. This route connects Atlantic beaches, charming lighthouses, and picturesque New England towns. Take I-84 West from Amherst, passing through Hartford, Waterbury, and Danbury, and connecting to I-95 South.

This route is longer than the direct one (420 miles) and can take you up to seven hours, but it's worth it. You'll experience a change of landscapes from the rolling New Hampshire hills to the bustling streets of New York City (where you can stop at the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty), to the fishing villages in Mystic, Connecticut or Newport, Rhode Island, where you can savor the best seafood in the East Coast.

The Scenic Route: I-91 S and I-90 W

For those looking for a slower pace and a chance to gaze at natural beauty, the scenic route is the one to take. From Amherst, take I-91 South, pass through Springfield, Hartford, and New Haven, and then connect to I-90 West. This route is the longest one (450 miles) and may take up to eight hours, but it will make for an unforgettable journey.

You will come across rolling hillsides, covered bridges, friendly farm stands, and historic sites along the Mohawk Trail. The route will take you through Albany, New York, where you can visit the New York State Capitol or have a glass of craft beer at the Pump Station Restaurant and Brewery. Moving forward, you'll drive through the beautiful Taconic Mountains before descending into the Hudson River Valley - an art lover's paradise with multiple museums and historic sites.

Ready for a Fun and Adventurous Road Trip?

No matter which route you pick, there are plenty of scenic routes and amazing cities to explore on the way. Remember to take breaks, stretch your legs, and try out the best local delicacies. We recommend visiting the Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford, The Breakers mansion in Newport, Rhode Island, and Hershey's Chocolate World in Pennsylvania.

So pack some snacks, prepare the perfect playlist, and set on an unforgettable adventure from Amherst, NH, to Lansdowne, PA, and have fun exploring the scenic highways of the East Coast. Happy traveling!