How to Get Around Massachusetts

Boston is the exception to the American rule: the subway — the oldest in the country, opened in 1897 — trams, buses and commuter rail make a car unnecessary and often a liability. Parking is scarce and expensive, and the street layout predates the grid.

Logan is the main airport and unusually close to the centre, reachable by subway.

A car becomes useful for the Berkshires and necessary for touring the Cape, though the bridges onto it are a serious bottleneck on summer weekends.

Ferries run to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket from several ports on the state's southern shore. Taking a vehicle requires a reservation made months ahead in season; going as a foot passenger and hiring a bicycle is usually the better decision.

Commuter rail reaches Salem, Providence, Worcester and the Revolutionary towns west of the city, which covers most day trips without driving.