Travel Guide: Boston To Rhode Island

Travelling from Boston to Rhode Island is a relatively short trip, with the distance between the two capital cities being just over 50 miles. There are several ways to travel between the two states, including by train, bus, taxi, car, or plane. The best option for you will depend on your budget and preferred means of transportation.

Travel by train

Travelling by train from Boston to Rhode Island is a quick and convenient option. The journey is approximately 41 miles (66 km) and usually takes around 35 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Acela train can make the trip in 28 minutes. There are two departure stations in Boston: Back Bay Station and South Station. Trains depart regularly throughout the day, with a higher frequency during rush hours. The arrival station is Providence Station, located in the city's downtown area.

The cost of a train ticket from Boston to Providence varies depending on the day of the week and the time of booking. On average, tickets range from $5 to $350, with the cheapest tickets available when booked at least 24 days in advance. The cheapest day to travel is usually Sunday, while Saturday tends to be the most expensive.

There are two main train services operating on this route:

• Amtrak Northeast Regional: This service offers 9 trips per day and provides a quick and efficient way to travel between the two cities. It is generally less expensive than the Acela, with tickets costing around $5-14.
• Amtrak Acela: As Amtrak's flagship high-speed rail service, the Acela offers a faster and more premium experience. The average ticket price is higher, around $25 more than the Northeast Regional. The Acela trains have additional amenities, including extra comfortable seats, free high-speed internet, power outlets, and a signature Corridor Café.

Both train services offer WiFi internet and food services with snacks and light refreshments.

Taking the train from Boston to Rhode Island is a great way to avoid the busy highways and enjoy a relaxing journey to your destination.

Travel by bus

If you're travelling from Boston to Rhode Island by bus, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, there is a direct bus service that operates between the two locations, so you won't have to worry about making any transfers along the way. The bus departs from South Station, Boston, MA, and arrives at the Convention Center, Providence, RI. Services are operated by Peter Pan Bus Lines and Greyhound USA, and they depart three times daily. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, and tickets can be purchased online, via an app, or on the bus itself.

In terms of pricing, bus tickets can vary from $3 to $60, depending on the carrier and the time of booking. It's a good idea to check the different bus line options and book in advance to find the best deal. Additionally, you can bring one checked bag and one piece of hand luggage for free, but there may be additional charges for extra or special luggage.

When travelling by bus, it's always a good idea to arrive at the station a little early to ensure you don't miss your bus. The South Station Bus Terminal in Boston is located at 700 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02111, and the bus will depart from either Platform #8 or #9. At the Convention Center in Providence, the bus will arrive on the south side of Broadway at Greene Street, in front of the sign for the Regency Plaza apartments.

Lastly, the bus is a great option if you're looking for a comfortable and convenient journey. Buses are usually equipped with comfortable seats, storage space for luggage, power outlets, and even free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected and entertained during the trip.

Travel by car

The distance between Boston and Rhode Island is around 44-50 miles, and the drive typically takes 56-57 minutes. Driving is a popular way to travel between the two, and you can choose to drive your own car, rent a car, or use a ride-sharing service.

If you're driving, the most direct route is to:

• Take I-93 South in Boston
• I-93 South merges into I-95 South near Canton, MA
• Follow I-95 South straight through to Rhode Island
• Depending on your final destination in RI, you may need to take additional highways

If you're renting a car, it's best to look for a rental company close to your starting point.

Using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft is another option, but it will likely be more expensive than driving yourself or taking public transportation. The average cost for this trip is between $100-210 from Logan International Airport to Providence, Rhode Island.

It's important to be aware of rush hour traffic, which can significantly slow down your travel time. Morning rush hour is usually from 7:00 am to 9:00 am, and afternoon rush hour is from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, or even later. Bad weather can also add to the traffic slowdowns during these times.

Places to Visit Along the Way

There are several interesting places you can visit along the way:

• Gillette Stadium – 1 Patriot Place, Foxboro, MA: Home of the New England Patriots football team and the New England Revolution soccer team.
• Patriot Place – 2 Patriot Place, Foxboro, MA: A shopping, dining, and entertainment complex with restaurants, shops, a movie theatre, spas, and nature trails.
• Plainridge Casino – 301 Washington Street, Plainville, MA: Massachusetts' first and only slot machine parlor, with over 1,200 slot machines.
• Wrentham Village Premium Outlets – 1 Premium Outlets Boulevard, Wrentham, MA: An outdoor outlet mall with over 170 designer and brand-name stores.
• Slater Mill – 67 Roosevelt Avenue, Pawtucket, RI: A historic site in Pawtucket that played a significant role in the American Industrial Revolution.
• Providence Place Mall – 1 Providence Place, Providence, RI: A popular shopping, dining, and entertainment destination in downtown Providence.
• Waterplace Park and Riverwalk – 200 Exchange Street, Providence, Rhode Island: A beautiful outdoor space with a scenic riverwalk, gondola rides, and frequent cultural events.

Travel by taxi

If you're looking to travel from Boston to Rhode Island by taxi, there are a few options available to you. The distance between the two locations is approximately 44-49 miles, and the journey should take around 56-57 minutes. Here is some information to help you plan your trip:

Taxi Companies

• Boston Taxi Cab Inc.—Offers taxi and car services to various destinations in Rhode Island, including Smithfield, Woonsocket, and Providence. They provide door-to-door pick-up and drop-off and infant seats at nominal prices. You can make a reservation online or by calling them.
• Boston Airport Cab—Provides reliable and affordable airport taxi services for travellers, students, and businessmen. They also offer door-to-door services and infant seats. Reservations can be made online or by phone.
• Boston No #1 Taxi and Car Service—Serves Rhode Island and Providence, providing transportation for corporate executives, celebrities, leisure travellers, and more. They offer a range of vehicles, including Toyota Camry, Cadillac XTS, and Chevrolet Suburban. You can book their services online.

Taxi Fares and Duration

• The estimated cost of a taxi from Boston to Rhode Island is $140-$180, making it one of the more expensive travel options.
• The journey is expected to take around 56 minutes, making it the fastest way to travel between the two locations.

Starting Points

Depending on your specific origin and destination within Boston and Rhode Island, your journey details may vary. Here are some common starting points:

• Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Providence, Rhode Island—The distance is approximately 48.7 miles, and the taxi fare is estimated to be $170-$210.
• Boston, MA, to Providence, RI—The distance is roughly 46.1 miles, and the taxi fare is expected to be $140-$200.
• Boston, MA, to Convention Center, Providence, RI—This journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes by bus and involves taking the Peter Pan Bus Lines from South Station, Boston.

Remember to plan your trip in advance, make any necessary reservations, and be aware of the potential variations in distance, duration, and cost depending on your specific origin and destination.

Travel by plane

Although the distance between Boston and Rhode Island is only about 50 miles, there are no commercial airlines that fly this route. This is because the time taken to check in, go through security, wait for the flight, and fly is longer than travelling by other means. However, it is possible to book a private plane to make this journey.

Airports

If you are travelling by private plane, you could fly from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Theodore Francis Green Memorial State Airport (PVD).

Flight Time

The flight time for this journey is approximately 36 minutes. However, when you factor in the time it takes to get to the airport, wait for security, board, taxi on the runway, and land at the other airport, the total travel time increases to around 9 hours.

Cost

The cost of a one-way flight from Rhode Island to Boston can be as low as $149, and from Boston to Rhode Island, as low as $181.

Frequently asked questions