Boston Tunnels Bypass

Check out I-495

Time wise it's usually a wash between I95/Rt128 and I495. It depends on where on the Cape you're going. If you're going out Rt 6 to Hyannis and the outer Cape, then you want to end up on Rt 3, so Rt 128 is a straighter shot. If you're headed down Falmouth via Rt 28, then 495 dumps you right onto the Bourne bridge. If you want Rt 3 but take I495 instead, you can cut across on US 44 in Middleboro. It's a very good road.

There are ways to go through Boston without hitting the tunnels, but I wouldn't try them in a camper.

We go back and forth to Maine all spring,summer and fall and always use I495. It's a little longer, but time wise its a wash. Route 128 can and usually its a traffic nightmare. The only problem with 495 is up by the Lowell connector Rt. 3 & 93 during the late afternoon rush. We live in the mid-cape area.

Your only real options are 495 or 95. As others have stated, 495 is longer (I think it adds about 30 miles) but SOMETIMES is a better option time-wise. Unfortunately it's starting to become much like 95. Your best bet is your timing-if you can get through very early (by 6 a.m.), mid-day (11-2) or late (after 8 p.m.) you stand a better chance of better traffic flow. Sundays usually have less problems in general. There are no "good" options around here. What time of year will you be coming?

I make a run to the "South Shore" or the "Cape" a couple times year. I plan on hitting 95/128 between 10 to 2PM and breeze right through. Since I travel that area often for work Boston traffic doesn't intimidate me. My RV companions on the other hand would travel 30-50 miles out of their way just to avoid any sign with the name "Boston" on it. Wimps!

BTW: I tow a 38' TT

Thanks for the insights. I'll plan to hit it mid-day and try I-95.
Jerry, we're headed to Brewster via Rt 6. I've come down the Mass Pike to I-495 and done the Bourne bridge then 6A to 6 a few years back.

I'm not sure, but think the restrictions in MA tunnels are commercial vehicles only. I would check directly with MA SP truck enforcement. I have used the Rte. 93 tunnel with no problem.

I'm not sure, but think the restrictions in MA tunnels are commercial vehicles only. I would check directly with MA SP truck enforcement. I have used the Rte. 93 tunnel with no problem.

You are incorrect. There have been people on here who have been stopped and I have witnessed it myself. You have just been fortunate to make it through every time. Besides, driving a MH through Boston is just plain nuts!

NHIrish wrote:
I'm not sure, but think the restrictions in MA tunnels are commercial vehicles only. I would check directly with MA SP truck enforcement. I have used the Rte. 93 tunnel with no problem.

It has been along time since I have traveled the tunnels, but there are 2 things to consider.
1. Propane
2. Height of your rig.

Oh yes! Crazy Boston drivers.

The fine for going thru the tunnels start at $20,000.00 if stopped. Per the MA State Trooper that is in charge of the tunnels. No if and or buts, NO Propane