Boston to Salem in Style: A Guide to Travel Time and Scenic Spots Along the Way

If you're planning a road trip across Boston and Salem, New Hampshire, you're in for a treat. With each city offering distinctive landmarks, cultural attractions, and historical sites, you'll have plenty of chances to discover incredible destinations in the northeastern region of the US.

In this guide, we outline several routes between Boston and Salem, with each route highlighting different attractions and scenic spots. Additionally, we include the distance of each route and the time it takes to travel it.

Route 1: The Fastest Way

The most direct route from Boston to Salem is to take I-93-N for 35 miles, then switch to NH-38-N for another 7 miles. This 42-mile journey will take you around 45-50 minutes, depending on traffic. Although it's the quickest path, it's not the most scenic one.

Route 2: The Coastal Experience

For a more scenic route, we recommend taking I-93 N for 30 miles, then switching to MA-1A North and follow the signs for Salisbury and Seabrook. Keep driving for about 20 miles, and you'll reach Hampton Beach. The journey takes roughly an hour, and the coastal views are unbeatable. We recommend stopping at Hampton Beach State Park for a picnic, taking a lazy stroll on the beach, or cooling off with a dip in the ocean.

Route 3: The History Buff

If you prefer a trip that emphasizes historical sites, consider I-93 North to I-495 North. From there, take Exit 51A for MA-125 North. This route will take you past historic Amesbury, with its many antique shops and outdoor cafes, and then into Haverhill, where museums and historic landmarks abound. The total journey is 43 miles and takes around an hour. For a stop along the way, visit the Whittier Birthplace in Haverhill, the home of the poet John Greenleaf Whittier.

Route 4: The Countryside Tour

If you're looking for a longer and more scenic route to Salem, consider taking I-93 North and then merging on to I-89 North toward Concord, NH. You'll drive past green countryside, rolling hills, and towering mountains in the distance. The overall journey is about 80 miles and will take around an hour and a half. To take in the beauty of the area, we recommend a stop at Lake Winnipesaukee, where you can rent a boat or just relax on the beach.

Route 5: The Yankee Spirit

Another popular route is to take I-93 North to I-89 toward Lebanon, NH. From there, you can take Route 4 East to Route 125 and head south into Portsmouth. This journey covers around 72 miles and is perfect if you're looking to explore more of New England's quaint towns along the way.

Once you arrive in Portsmouth, there are plenty of attractions waiting for you, from the USS Albacore Museum and Submarine to the Wentworth-Gardner Mansion. Before you hit the road again, make sure to grab a lobster roll or some clam chowder at one of the town's many seafood joints.

Conclusion:

No matter which route you choose, you'll have a fantastic time exploring the scenic towns, historical sites, and coastal vistas along the way. Whether you're a native New Englander or a visitor just passing through, there's something for everyone on this beautiful journey from Boston to Salem. Don't forget to take your time and enjoy the ride!