Road Trip from Branford to Narragansett
Are you planning a road trip from Branford, Connecticut, to Narragansett, Rhode Island? You're in for a treat as this scenic drive offers you the chance to explore charming towns and breathtaking landscapes. From sandy beaches to iconic lighthouses, this drive has it all. Here's a breakdown of your options and the travel time for each.
The I-95 Route (Approx. 105 miles, 2 Hours)
The fastest and most direct route is via the I-95 South. The travel time on this route is approximately two hours, but it can vary depending on traffic and tolls. The distance from Branford to Narragansett along this route is about 105 miles.
Along the way, you'll pass through some of Connecticut's charming towns, such as New Haven and Mystic, and Rhode Island's bustling cities, including Providence. You can make a stop at Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport to catch a glimpse of the marine life, or break the journey up with a detour to Newport, Rhode Island, to experience the stunning mansions of the Gilded Age.
The Coastal Long Island Sound Route (Approx. 80 miles, 2.5 Hours)
If you prefer a scenic and more leisurely drive, taking the Coastal Long Island Sound Route is a perfect choice. This route takes you along the Connecticut coastline and provides views of Long Island Sound. The distance from Branford to Narragansett along this route is about 80 miles, and it takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Along the way, stop at Madison, a quaint coastal town with a charming downtown area and beautiful beaches. If you want to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air, stop at Hammonasset Beach State Park, which is the largest beach in Connecticut. Continue your journey, and you'll cross over the stunning Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge, offering beautiful views of Narragansett Bay before arriving in Narragansett.
The Scenic Shoreline Route (Approx. 95 miles, 3 Hours)
The Scenic Shoreline Route offers a combination of scenic beauty and history. This route takes you through the charming towns along the Connecticut shoreline and into the heart of Rhode Island. The distance from Branford to Narragansett along this route is about 95 miles, and it takes approximately three hours.
Along the way, stop at Guilford, a charming colonial-era town with stunning architecture and a vibrant town center. From there, head to Watch Hill, where you can visit the iconic Watch Hill Lighthouse. Don't forget to take a stroll on the beachfront of Misquamicut State Beach, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Rhode Island.
The Recommended Pit Stops
Regardless of which route you choose, there are several must-visit places to stop in between Branford and Narragansett:
- Foxwoods Resort Casino: Situated halfway on the I-95 route, Foxwoods Resort Casino is a perfect stop if you want to try your luck at gambling or enjoy some shopping.
- Tanger Outlets: Another option for shoppers is the Tanger Outlets, which offer branded stores and excellent discounts.
- Mystic Pizza: If you're a fan of the movie "Mystic Pizza," you'll love stopping at the restaurant that inspired the movie.
In conclusion, driving from Branford to Narragansett offers a great way to explore the scenic beauty of Connecticut and Rhode Island. Whether you prefer the fastest route or a more leisurely adventure, each route offers attractions that make the journey a lot of fun. Don't forget to stop at the recommended places along the route for a complete road trip experience.