The Best and Worst Times to Drive from Bristol, Rhode Island to Falmouth, Massachusetts

Are you planning a road trip from Bristol, Rhode Island to Falmouth, Massachusetts? Whether you're heading for a weekend getaway or visiting family and friends, it's important to be aware of the time it takes to reach your destination. In this blog post, we'll explore the fastest and slowest routes, their respective distances, and provide you with estimated driving times during peak traffic and low traffic hours.

Fastest Route: Taking MA-24 N

If you're looking to get to Falmouth as quickly as possible, the fastest route would be to take MA-24 N. This route spans approximately 54 miles, and under normal traffic conditions, you can expect to arrive in Falmouth in about 1 hour and 10 minutes. However, it's worth noting that during peak traffic hours, this travel time can increase significantly.

During peak times, we recommend allowing for extra travel time. Traffic on MA-24 N can get quite congested, especially during morning and evening rush hours. In these scenarios, the estimated driving time could be anywhere between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Slowest Route: Taking US-6 W

For those who prefer a more scenic drive or want to avoid highways, taking US-6 W is an option. While this route adds a few extra miles to your journey at approximately 60 miles, it offers a different experience and takes you through charming towns and beautiful landscapes.

Under normal traffic conditions, driving from Bristol to Falmouth via US-6 W typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, it's important to keep in mind that this route often experiences heavier traffic due to local commutes and is prone to delays. During peak traffic times, such as weekday mornings and late afternoons, you might need to set aside close to 2 hours for this journey.

Alternative Routes and Considerations

If you're looking for alternative routes to Falmouth, there are a couple of options you can consider. One alternative is taking I-195 W and then switching onto MA-28 S. This route is approximately 52 miles long and is often less congested than MA-24 N during peak traffic hours. It usually takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, but during busy periods, it could take closer to 2 hours.

Another alternative is using local roads and traveling through smaller towns. While this might be a more leisurely and enjoyable drive, it can significantly increase your travel time. We recommend using this option if you have extra time to spare and want to explore the scenic beauty of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Be aware, though, that the increased distance and traffic lights can prolong the journey to approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

Conclusion

The time it takes to drive from Bristol, Rhode Island to Falmouth, Massachusetts heavily depends on the route chosen and the traffic conditions. Taking MA-24 N is the fastest option, but during peak traffic hours, it can get congested, resulting in longer travel times. Alternatively, taking US-6 W offers a scenic drive, but it can also experience delays due to local traffic.

If you're a time-conscious traveler, sticking to major highways like MA-24 N and I-195 W can help you reach Falmouth more quickly. On the other hand, if you're in no rush and want to enjoy a relaxed journey, exploring alternative routes or smaller towns may be more appealing.

Remember, always check for live traffic updates before hitting the road, and be prepared to adjust your travel plans accordingly. Safe travels!