Need a car?

Question

We are coming to Boston for two nights to be tourists & then plan to drive to Acadia national park for 4 nights. Should we get rental car at airport right away, or on day we are leaving Boston? Parking seems expensive, but would public transportation be a hassle?

Answer

Whether or not to rent a car right away or wait until you're leaving Boston depends on a few factors. Let's break it down:

Renting a car right away (at the airport):
- This option gives you immediate flexibility to explore Boston beyond the city center, but keep in mind that parking in Boston can be expensive and limited, especially in tourist areas like the Freedom Trail, Beacon Hill, and the Seaport District.
- Parking fees can range from $20 to $50 per day depending on where you park, with some hotels offering valet services at higher prices.
- If you plan to rent a car right away, you may want to consider staying at a hotel with parking included or one located near public transportation options, which can help minimize parking expenses.
Renting a car on the day you leave:
- If you're mostly exploring the downtown area, public transportation (the "T" subway system) and walking can get you to many of Boston's main attractions. The city is well-connected and walkable, so public transportation might be a hassle-free option for two days.
- Consider renting the car on your departure day, which can save you the hassle of finding parking and the cost of parking overnight.
- When you’re ready to head to Acadia National Park, renting a car on the day of your departure will allow you to drive straight out of the city without worrying about returning to your hotel and picking up the car.
Public transportation:
- Boston's public transportation system is very efficient and user-friendly, with the subway, buses, and ferries covering most of the city. The T is great for getting to places like the North End, South Boston, Fenway, and even Cambridge (via the Red Line).
- If you're comfortable using public transit and don’t need a car to explore Boston itself, you could save money by using the T and Uber/Lyft when needed. In fact, many tourists prefer this option to avoid the hassle of parking.

Overall, it might be best to rent the car only when you are leaving for Acadia National Park. This will allow you to enjoy the city without worrying about parking fees and save you time by having the car ready for your road trip.

Additionally, if you're planning to drive to Acadia and are unfamiliar with Boston, you can rent the car at an easily accessible location like the South Station rental agencies, or you can opt for a car rental near your hotel on the day you're ready to depart.

Enjoy your trip to Boston and Acadia National Park!

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