Road Tripping from Beantown to Terre Haute: A Guide
Are you planning a road trip from Boston, Massachusetts to Terre Haute, Indiana? Well, buckle up because we’ve got you covered! From the historic cities to charming towns, there’s a lot to see and do between these two cities. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the different routes available, distance, driving time, and recommendations of some must-visit places. So, let’s get started!
Route 1: I-90 W and I-80 W (1,008 miles - ~15 hours)
This is the most direct route between Boston and Terre Haute and takes approximately 15 hours of drive time. Start by taking I-90 W from Boston and follow it for 676 miles until you reach Syracuse, NY. From Syracuse, merge onto I-81 S followed by I-80 W in Pennsylvania towards Toledo. Once you cross the Indiana state line, take the exit to reach Terre Haute.
Recommendations:
- Stop in the city of Rochester, NY, to visit the George Eastman Museum – home to a stunning collection of photography and cinema.
- Stretch your legs and take a break in Cleveland, OH, to check out the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
- Visit the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio – perfect for hiking and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Route 2: I-90 W and I-94 W (1,081 miles - ~16 hours)
Looking for a route with fewer tolls? This route may be slightly longer, but it might save you some cash. Follow the I-90 W from the Logan International Airport in Boston and continue straight for about 1062 miles until you reach Chicago, Illinois. In Chicago, take I-94 W towards Indianapolis, then take I-70 W to reach Terre Haute. This route takes almost 16 hours of drive time.
Recommendations:
- Visit Cleveland to discover the University Circle, home to the world-famous Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Orchestra, and the Severance Hall.
- Check out Chicago's Navy Pier, loaded with attractions, eateries, and fun.
- Scenic stops within the Dunes National Park in Indiana, including the beach, trails, and campground.
Route 3: I-84 W and I-80 W (1,369 miles - ~20 hours)
If you're looking for the most scenic route with the possibility of exploring some national parks, this route is for you. Take I-84 W from Boston and continue for about 350 miles until you reach Scranton, Pennsylvania. From Scranton, merge onto I-81 S for about 131 miles to reach Harrisburg. Change to I-76 W to drive past State College and into Dubois while enjoying the view of the Appalachians. From there, make your way to I-80 W towards Terre Haute.
Recommendations:
- Take a detour to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation area in Pennsylvania. This area is loaded with activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, camping, and swimming.
- Visit the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, home to over 165,000 acres of forest, icy streams, and waterfalls.
- Explore the Indiana Dunes National Park, home to over 15 miles of stunning Lake Michigan beaches.
No matter which route you choose, a Boston to Terre Haute road trip is an unforgettable experience. With some proper planning and preparation, you can experience all the best stops and secret hideaways along the way. Remember to take breaks, grab some snacks, and stay safe on the road. Happy travels!