Watch CBS News

Best Scenic Drives Near Boston

Scenic Driving
(Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)

Scenic routes taken in or out of the city of Boston are easy enough to find, and wonderful to travel along to ease the tension of a grueling work day. If touring through New England these suggested stretches are some of the most easily accessed and offer some of the top views near Boston.

Fellsway West to Woodland Road At Spot Pond

Fellsway West, most commonly called Jerry Jingles Highway to the natives of the area, runs alongside Interstate 93 on the Northern tip of Boston. Depending on the direction, it begins or ends at Spot Pond, Stoneham Exit 33 through South Border Road, Exit 35 of Interstate 93. Special features at the Fells include the Sheepfold meadow, Bellevue Pond, Wright's Tower, Virginia Wood, Lawrence Woods, Spot Pond and over 100 miles of trails. The road twists and turns passing Stone Zoo, Flynn Rink and stone structures quarried from the area.

Route 2N Belmont To Boston

It's been noted that glimpsing the skyline of Boston for the first time from Route 2 is breathtaking. Catch a perfect blend of small town life with a big city attitude. If you live in Boston, most shy away from this route with its myriad supply of rotaries. Drive past the inner parks and into the stretches that lead to Walden Pond and majestic museums, depending on which course of direction is best suited to the destination. Route 2 will bring you into the heart and soul of the Berkshires. Simply put, it's an amazing trip!

Route 3A South Plymouth To Rivermoor Habitat Park

Widows Walk Golf course, Herring Brook park, Damon's point, Scituate Harbor ... and the list goes on. Route 3A runs along and weaves around miles of conservation land, leaving a lasting impression of clean, untainted countryside only a few short miles outside of Boston's Southern base. The classic route is predominantly coastal as it closes in on the city harbors. Historical landmarks, Hingham Shipyard and beach fronts add to the enchantment. From rocky ridges to swaying marshes, picking a favorite area will be a challenge.

Related: Boston's Best Scenic Drives Within 60 Miles Of The City

Mohawk Trail & Deerfield River

Deerfield River runs 76 miles from the base of Vermont through Massachusetts into Connecticut. Glacial falls and sink holes litter the drive along Northwestern Massachusetts. Railroad trestles with staggering height drops are all nestled within tree covered stretches and glimpses of the rushing tributary. Also stop by and admire the "bridge of flowers," one of the river's most popular tourist attractions.

Route 1A North Of Boston, Coastal

It seems fitting to include the largest coastal road in Massachusetts, which songs have been written about. Every Bostonian knows how to take Route 1A when bound for Florida. Running from sea to shining sea, home to the movie star mansions and acres upon acres of rocky coastline, colored beaches and crashing waves. With each curve along the shoreline there is one breathtaking view after another, a sensory overload, only found in New England. From forests to rivers, skylines to ocean, there is no other place in America comparable to Boston's scenic views.

Related: Leaf Peeping Season: Massachusetts Foliage Guide

Freelance Writer Corinne Costantino brings the "Best of Boston" to New England. Her work can be found on Examiner.com

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.