A drive through Massachusetts can yield a variety of sites, from the bustle of cities to the calm shores of the coast. In fact, one of the most scenic drives in America can be found along a Massachusetts byway. We’re talking about Route 6, a 118-mile trek that meanders through some of the most scenic places in Massachusetts. If you’ve yet to experience this unforgettable drive, it’s time to load up the car and embark on one of the best scenic drives in Massachusetts.

The Massachusetts portion of U.S. Route 6 is a 118-mile stretch of the cross-country route.
John Phelan/Wikipedia
Feasibly, you could drive all the way to California on this same road.
Doug Kerr/flickr
Once upon a time, this was actually the longest highway in the whole country, totaling 3,652 miles, running all the way to Long Beach, CA.
Doug Kerr/flickr
California has since re-numbered its routes, although Route 6 is still considered to be the longest contiguous highway in the country.
The very beginning of the route is designated by the sign pictured below.
Doug Kerr/flickr
The terminus is located in Provincetown, where it was first routed in 1926. At this time, it was a narrow passage and caused congestion heading westward. As a solution, Route 6A was created.
duluoz cats/flickr

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Running through old fishing towns and Cape Cod sand dunes, Route 6A is arguably just as scenic as the original Route 6.
Doug Kerr/flickr
This state road is also referred to as Old King’s Highway and runs approximately 62 miles in length.
Doug Kerr/flickr
Route 6A and Route 6 actually share the same road through the towns of South Truro, Wellfleet, and Eastham.
The Cape Cod portion of Route 6A provides some of the most breathtaking views of the sand dunes and salt marshes.
Lesley Wilson/flickr
If you’ve got a few hours to spare, be sure to stop by and visit some of these quintessential Massachusetts small towns. Provincetown, for example, is home to the country’s tallest granite structures. There are also friendly store fronts and restaurants that’ll invite you to take a break from the drive.
As you continue westward, you’ll eventually arrive in Eastham, home of the Cape Cod National Seashore.
John Phelan/Wikipedia
Here you can stop in the Salt Pond Visitor’s Center for an incredible view of the Salt Pond, pictured below.
Holly Ladd/flickr
This stretch of pristine land offers a breathtaking view of the inlets and wildlife.

So, are you ready to travel along Route 6? For more information, click here.

Well, what do you think? Is Route 6 one of the best scenic drives in Massachusetts? Have you driven the scenic Route 6 or Route 6A in Massachusetts? Know of any other can’t-miss Massachusetts byways Tell us!

If you’re looking for more scenic drives, be sure to check out these 7 Beautiful Byways In Massachusetts That Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive.

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Best Scenic Drives In Massachusetts

Daniella DiRienzo | July 29, 2021

What are the best scenic drives in Massachusetts?

Route 6 isn’t the only notable Massachusetts byway. There’s also Jacob’s Ladder Trail, which runs 33 miles along Route 20. Definitely one of the best scenic drives in Massachusetts, the rural roadway winds through the foothills of the Berkshires. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of forested hills, open fields, wetlands, steep rock ledges, the Westfield River, and small towns. You can do more than enjoy the scenic surroundings from afar, though. The route passes three entrances to the Chester-Blandford State Forest. A great detour, the forest offers hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and camping.

What are some other scenic places in Massachusetts?

There are tons of scenic places in Massachusetts. One beautiful place that you don’t want to miss is Bash Bish Falls State Park. Located in Mount Washington, the park is brimming with incredible beauty. However, there’s no denying that the highlight of the park is its namesake waterfall – Bash Bish Falls. At a towering 80 feet, it’s the highest single-drop waterfall in the state. Truly a stunning sight, the flowing water cascades through a series of gorges, before plummeting into the pristine pool below.

Which other Massachusetts byways are worth navigating?

Massachusetts byways are plentiful, and one worth navigating is Battle Road Scenic Byway. The 14-mile byway runs along Massachusetts Avenue, Route 2A, and other local roads. Brimming with scenic beauty and incredible history, the byway follows the path used by the British during the first battles of the American Revolution. Like a journey back in time, the route meanders through Arlington, Lexington, Lincoln, and Concord as well as the Minute Man National Historical Park.

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U.S. 6, US-6, Eastham, MA, USA