The lively waterfront, historical landmarks and European-style ambience of Boston are a short drive away and it’s not much further to Cape Cod’s beaches and the attractions of New England. However, with Boston Logan International Airport surrounded by so much water, it’s important to plan which way you’re heading. If you collect a car from our convenient location at Boston Airport, you’ll able to access the main driving routes quickly.

You’ll see that Interstate 90, also called the Massachusetts Turnpike, passes through the airport complex, via tunnels under the sea. Head west through the tunnel for the city centre, Fenway Park, and eventually New York state. To the north, the I-90 joins Route 1A and heads out of town towards the rest of New England. Eastbound traffic through the I-90 tunnels is free, westbound vehicles pay a small toll.

Once you’re out of the airport, you’ll join Boston’s European-style road system, with major arterial roads leading out from the heart of the city in all directions. There's also a beltway ring-road which surrounds the area, the I-95, allowing you to bypass the centre, head into the suburbs or explore the wider state.

Speed limits on highways are usually 70mph and on dual carriageways - or 'divided highways' - the speed limit is around 50mph. In the centre of Boston, the urban speed limit is 25mph.

You'll find that the city centre is small and compact for a US metropolis. There are plenty of places where you can park your vehicle for a reasonable fee. On-street meters start at $1.25 per hour, often have a time limit of two hours and are free on Sundays. There are also numerous garages in the Back Bay and Downtown areas, offering more long-term parking solutions.  

Boston is one of America’s best cities to visit thanks to the character, style and ambience you'll find across this bustling metropolis. It’s packed with immaculately preserved history and occupies a prime waterfront spot. Logan International Airport is just three miles north-east of the centre, so if you’ve picked up a hire car from us, it’s easy to start exploring.

Head downtown

In the city's downtown district, you’ll find two great places to lose yourself in - the renowned Institute of Contemporary Art in its striking waterfront home displaying works by Cindy Sherman and Kiki Smith, and the hands-on fun of the Boston Children’s Museum, with everything from exhibits on the history of Boston to a huge adventure playground. Not far away is Fenway Park, the legendary home of the Red Sox baseball team. You can take a daytime tour or even catch a game for an authentic slice of American sporting history.

The Freedom Trail

Head north and you’ll find many of the sights celebrating Boston’s important place in the fight for independence from the British. These are some of America’s most cherished attractions. The best way to see them is by using the Freedom Trail - an acclaimed 2.5-mile path winding through the downtown area linking 16 historically significant locations.

This marked brick walkway is a great way to learn about the history of the city. You’ll see landmarks like the USS Constitution, one of the US’s first warships; the Old South Meeting House, where the Boston Tea Party originated from; the Old State House, one of America’s oldest public buildings; and the 17th-century house of Paul Revere. Take in the views across the city and old harbour from the Bunker Hill memorial too.

Down on the Waterfront

The Trail also takes you to Faneuil Hall, one of the city’s main attractions. This grand old warehouse was a meeting place during the war of independence, but it has been restored and is now part of a lively waterside visitor area. This is now one of America’s most visited attractions, and the pavement cafes and cobbled paths around here are a perfect location to enjoy a bit of people watching and relaxation by the Charles River.

From the waterfront, you'll also be able to spend an afternoon exploring Boston Harbour Islands. A short ferry ride from Long Wharf, take to the islands' footpaths and take in the fresh New England air, or relax on one of the many sandy beaches. For breathtaking views across the water, make sure to take the tour of Boston Light, the USA's oldest lighthouse.

Day tripping in New England

It’s worth planning a few day trips to some of the major sights located a short drive away. Massachusetts is home to attractions like the living history museum at Plimoth Plantation, celebrating an original colonial settlement. The waterfront at the historic town of Salem is a National Historic Site that includes ancient buildings and boats and nearby you'll find the ‘Witch House’ dating back to the infamous 17th-century witch trials.

Whether you’re in Boston on business or looking to explore the natural beauty of Massachusetts, hiring a car with us will allow you to tick off everything on your agenda.