Boston to Canada
 

Hi,
Thinking of driving from Boston to Canada with my teenage daughter during her April vacation.
Wondering if anyone could tell me how long the drive would be. I was thinking of spending 3or 4 nights in Montreal, but as I have never been to Canada, I am open to any other suggestions for a fun place to visit.

Depends on how fast you drive, and if you hit traffic crossing the border (unlikely) & the bridge into Montreal. But I'd give it about 5 hours. It's about 310 miles, but part of it is not freeway (Rte 133 in Quebec, about 25 miles).

Five hours driving is usual.

Whether or not you "hit traffic crossing the border" depends upon when you arrive and where you cross.

Our favorite route is via the Plattsburgh ferry. This does take you via I-87 through one of the busier border crossings, but we love the ferry ride, (as opposed to the dull, low speed limit routes) and the duty free shop (for liquor, which is very expensive in Canada), along the way.

Montreal is a fabulous destination.

I-89/Rte133 really isn't bad at all. You usually won't find much traffic after Burlington.

Rte 133 is mostly a 2-lane highway (one each way), 90km/h speed limit (if I remember correctly), which is about 56MPH. There are 2-3 villages enroute, which you have to slow down, but no lights. There are also some 2-lane (each direction) zone for passing, if you're not comfortable passing in the opposite direction. Just before the freeway (Autoroute 10), there are a few traffic lights, but still ain't bad.

Worse is crossing St. Lawrence into Montreal. Traffic could be bad at times.

Hi,
Thanks for the suggestions.
I will be taking 3 14 year old girls. Any suggestions for an itinerary?
Also, a hotel that would be memorable to them.Something special that would allow 4 people in a room.
I have done some searches, but I haven't come up with specific suggestions for that age group.
What is typical weather for mid April?
Thanks again.

Curious on how much longer it takes if I take the ferry? How often does it run?
Thanks

http://www.ferries.com/

Looks like every 15 minutes during day time. Haven't done the ferry itself, but my guess is that it should take less than 15 minutes for the trip. So, with the waiting, etc, that should add about 30 minutes. However, keep in mind that you will then be using the I-87 border crossing, which is the main route between NY and Montreal, instead of the I-89 crossing, which sees much less traffic.

The ferry also isn't cheap. $7.75 for car & driver, and $2.25 for each additional driver.

If you just want to see some Lake Champlain, and don't want to spend the extra time or money, you can also consider taking US Highway 2 (like you would if you're going to take the ferry), but just continue on it North (and then West). [I believe there's also an different border crossing you can use just East of the I-87 one, which would not have the heavy traffic.] You'll cross several bridges, and are almost always next to the lake. I've done that route too, not as fast as I-89, but quite enjoyable.

$2.25 for each additional adult passenger. Sorry for the mistake...

Hate to offer an other recommendation, but we drive Boston-Montreal quite often. Best route is I-91, A-55 and A-10 in Quebec. Border crossing at Derby Line (Vt) always much less crowded. Exactly same mileage as via I-89, plus it's freeway all the way. Scenery on I-91 is also nicer than on I-89. Takes 4 hours 45 minutes.

Hi,
It sounds like you have tried the different ways, and fingd this the most efficiant and enjoyable.I will try that route.
Still looking for suggestions for a hotel that would be memorable (different, elegant,or funky, etc.) to impress the girls and a list of "must do's."
Wondering how much time I should spend in Montreal and also thinking that one night might be better spent in Vermont, or some where else on the way, to break up the trip a little.
Thanks for any imput.

LouisP is right about the mileage. I've driven RI-Montreal a few times, and I've always done I-89, probably due to familiarity. Should really have tried I-91 myself. Too bad I don't live up there anymore. :(

Hi,
I am still looking for suggestions regarding trip to Montreal with young teens.
We are thinking of going in a few weeks (school break) so any thoughts on where to stay or what to do?
Thanks

ttt

Old Montreal (the Vieux Port) is a great place for teens: lots of artsy shops, plenty of kids rollerboarding, generally a good place to walk around.

Also check out the Cirque de Soleil web site -- CdS is based in Montreal, and they might have shows or other entertainment going on.