Road Trip from Boston to Montreal: Best Stops and Sights

Ready to hit the open road and explore the wonders of New England and Quebec? Then buckle up, because we’ve put together a list of the top places to see when driving from Boston, Massachusetts to Montreal, Quebec. This road trip route takes you through stunning landscapes, historic cities, and charming small towns. Here are our picks for the top sights and stops to make along the way.

Boston to Salem: A Scenic Drive through Quintessential New England

The drive from Boston to Salem is short, but it’s packed with quintessential New England charm and history. Take a detour off the I-95 and follow Route 1A to drive along the North Shore coastline. Here are our favorite stops along this scenic drive.

1. Marblehead: This picturesque coastal town boasts colonial architecture, rocky beaches, and a charming downtown with great shopping and dining options. Don’t miss Abbott Hall, which houses the famous painting “The Spirit of ’76.”
2. Salem: Famous for its witch trials of 1692, Salem is a fascinating place to visit year-round. Explore the Salem Witch Museum, stroll around the historic downtown, and visit the House of Seven Gables, which inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel of the same name.
3. Singing Beach: This beautiful sandy beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea offers stunning views of the coastline and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pack a picnic and relax on the beach while listening to the sound of the waves.
4. Gloucester: This historic fishing town is known for its seafood restaurants, art galleries, and scenic vistas. Take a walk along the harbor and watch the lobster boats come in, or visit the Cape Ann Museum to learn about the area’s history and culture.
5. Rockport: This quaint seaside town is home to artists and writers and offers stunning views of the rocky coastline. Visit the Motif #1, a famous fishing shack that has been painted by many artists over the years, or take a stroll along the picturesque Bearskin Neck.

White Mountains: Stunning Scenery and Outdoor Adventures

Once you cross the border into New Hampshire, you’ll be greeted by the stunning scenery of the White Mountains. This region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and cycling. Here are the top sights and stops in the White Mountains.

1. Franconia Notch State Park: This scenic park features dramatic mountain vistas, hiking trails, and the famous Franconia Notch Parkway. Don’t miss the Flume Gorge, a natural chasm that is over 800 feet long.
2. Cannon Mountain: Take a ride on the aerial tramway to the summit of Cannon Mountain for panoramic views of the White Mountains and the Green Mountains of Vermont. In the winter, Cannon Mountain is a popular ski destination.
3. Mount Washington: The highest peak in the Northeast, Mount Washington offers breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails. If you don’t want to hike, you can reach the summit by driving the Auto Road or taking the Cog Railway.
4. Kancamagus Highway: This scenic byway runs through the heart of the White Mountains and offers stunning views of the forested landscape. Stop at the many overlooks and hiking trails along the way.
5. North Conway: This charming village offers great shopping, dining, and outdoor activities all year round. In the winter, it’s a popular skiing destination, and in the summer, it’s a great place to hike or visit the Conway Scenic Railroad.

Montpelier and Burlington: Two Quirky and Vibrant Vermont Cities

As you head north into Vermont, you’ll pass through two cities that are different in many ways but share a vibrant and quirky spirit. Montpelier is the capital of Vermont and the smallest state capital in the country, while Burlington is the largest city in Vermont and a hub for arts, culture, and outdoor recreation.

1. Montpelier: This charming city is known for its historic buildings, small-town charm, and laid-back vibe. Check out the State House, the Vermont Historical Society Museum, and the Hubbard Park Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
2. Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour: Just a short drive from Montpelier, this factory tour is a must-do for ice cream lovers. Learn about the history of Ben & Jerry’s, see the production line in action, and sample some of the famous flavors.
3. Church Street Marketplace: Located in downtown Burlington, this pedestrian-only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the city’s lively energy.
4. Lake Champlain: This sprawling lake offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing. Take a ferry ride to one of the islands on the lake or visit the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain to learn about the ecology and history of the lake.
5. Shelburne Museum: This unique museum is home to a collection of over 150,000 works of art and artifacts. The collection is housed in 39 buildings on 45 acres, including historic homes, barns, and a lighthouse.

Montreal: Music, Food, and Culture

You’ve made it to Montreal, one of Canada’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. With its rich history, lively arts scene, and world-class cuisine, Montreal is a great place to wrap up your road trip. Here are our top picks for things to see and do in Montreal.

1. Old Montreal: This historic district is home to cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and beautiful architecture. Visit Notre-Dame Basilica, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or stroll along the waterfront promenade.
2. Mount Royal: This hill in the heart of the city offers stunning views of the skyline and surrounding countryside. Take a picnic and enjoy the green space, or hike up to the summit for even better views.
3. Plateau Mont-Royal: This trendy neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art, quirky boutiques, and diverse food scene. Stroll along Rue Saint-Denis, visit the Moroccan-inspired Jardin Nelson, or try the famous smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s.
4. Montreal Jazz Festival: This world-famous music festival takes place in late June and early July and attracts performers and music lovers from around the world. Check out the schedule and try to catch a show or two.
5. Montreal Botanical Garden: This 190-acre garden is home to over 22,000 plant species and a variety of themed gardens, including a Chinese garden, a Japanese garden, and a rose garden. Don’t miss the Tree Pavilion, a stunning glass structure that houses a collection of over 100 tree species.

Conclusion

From historic cities to stunning landscapes to quirky neighborhoods, this road trip from Boston to Montreal has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of the great outdoors, a lover of art and culture, or a foodie looking for your next great meal, you won’t be disappointed. So pack your bags, gas up the car, and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure.