Getting Around New England
1. By Train
Amtrak runs a fast service between New York and Boston, with connections running to Portland, Providence, Springfield, Hartford, St. Albans, and Burlington
2. By Bus
Most cities have a local bus service. Intercity bus transport can be arranged on the lines indicated opposite.
3. By Ferry
Ferries are essential for visiting islands, but Boston is also served by commuter ferries from the North and South Shores. They are operated by Boston Harbor Cruises for the Metropolitan Boston Transit Authority, or by the MBTA.
MBTA • www.mbta.com
4. By Car
In Boston, driving is best left to taxi drivers. In the rest of New England, however, it is usually the best way to get around, see the countryside, stop when you want to, and explore the byways and rural backroads (for further details see Driving Tips).
5. By Metro
Boston is the only New England city with a subway and light rail system. The “T” (as it is called locally) has a stop within a few blocks of almost every central city attraction, and extends into the suburbs, often as above-ground light rail. Rechargeable Charlie Cards are available at many subway stations. Charlie Card holders pay about 15 per cent less for each ride, and the card also works for buses and harbor ferries. Visitors can also purchase a LinkPass for either one or seven days’ travel on metro, bus, inner harbor ferry, and the inner ring of commuter rail.MBTA • 617 222 5000 • www.mbta.com
6. Regional Airlines
New England is too small to sustain many regional carriers, but Cape Air flies small planes frequently between Boston, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. In summer, there are flights to Boston from Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.508 771 6944 • www.flycapeair.com
7. Bicycling
Cycling is a marvelous way to explore the New England countryside. Dedicated trails of former railroad rights-of-way are found throughout the region. The national Rails to Trails Conservancy maintains a useful website. When sharing the roads, try to stay on the right-hand shoulder to avoid being hit. All New England states mandate the use of helmets for children under 12.www.traillink.com
8. Walking
Many towns maintain scenic walking paths; some link communities together along trails that can stretch as far as 30 miles (48 km). To explore what might be available in the area you’re visiting, go to the website of American Trails for regional links within the state trails section.www.americantrails.org
9. Hiking
Hiking can be a satisfying way to traverse New England, providing that you are both fit and properly equipped. The main long-distance trail through the region is the Appalachian Trail, which largely sticks to the backwoods and follows some of the highest ridges in New England. If you’re going to tackle it, consider joining the Appalachian Mountain Club, and purchasing relevant maps and trail guides.800 372 1758 • www.outdoors.org
10. Maps
Good highway maps are available free at state welcome centers on interstate highways – usually shortly after entering the state. For exploring in greater depth, Maine-based DeLorme publishes an excellent series of large-format atlases and gazetteers for each state.800 561 5105 • www.delorme.com
