Memorial Day Traffic: Best and Worst Times for Cape Cod, Boston, & Beyond

BOSTON - Expect significant traffic congestion if you're heading to Cape Cod or elsewhere in New England for Memorial Day weekend.

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has warned that traffic will be "much heavier than normal early Friday afternoon."

"We anticipate a very busy travel weekend for Memorial Day," stated Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver. "Drivers should plan for additional travel time."

Nationwide, the American Automobile Association (AAA) is forecasting the second-highest Memorial Day travel period on record for this weekend.

According to AAA, Boston ranks among the top 10 destinations in the U.S. for the long weekend. Hertz informed AAA that demand for weekend car rentals will be highest in Boston, Atlanta, Las Vegas, and Orlando, indicating an increase in vehicles on the road throughout New England.

When is the worst time to drive?

MassDOT has indicated that Friday will be the busiest travel day. If you must drive, it’s best to avoid the afternoons. According to AAA, here are the worst times to drive this weekend:

• Friday, May 24: 12 to 7 p.m.


• Saturday, May 25: 2 to 5 p.m.


• Sunday, May 26: 3 to 7 p.m.


• Monday, May 27: 3 to 7 p.m.

Additionally, MassDOT’s data suggests that traffic will be heaviest on Sunday and Monday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

When is the best time to drive?

If you need to travel, consider leaving early or later in the day to avoid peak traffic. According to AAA, the best times to drive on Memorial Day weekend are:

• Friday, May 24: Before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m.


• Saturday, May 25: Before 1 p.m. or after 6 p.m.


• Sunday, May 26: Before 1 p.m.


• Monday, May 27: After 7 p.m.

Where are Massachusetts traffic cameras?

Massachusetts' traffic cameras provide valuable insight for travelers, covering the major highways across the state. These cameras are accessible through MassDOT's Mass511 website, alongside travel times and construction updates. MassDOT also regularly updates traffic conditions on social media platforms.

For the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, it's worth noting that the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane on I-93, running between Boston and Quincy, will open early at 1 p.m. on Friday and won't be operational on Monday due to the holiday.

Additionally, the Sumner Tunnel, typically closed for renovations on most summer weekends, will remain open for Memorial Day weekend.

MBTA Memorial Day holiday weekend schedules

To alleviate congestion on roads and highways, MassDOT recommends utilizing public transportation whenever possible during the Memorial Day weekend.

The MBTA Commuter Rail will operate on a weekend schedule until Monday, and their $10 Weekend Pass will be honored on Monday as well. For specific holiday schedules for subways and buses, refer to the MBTA's website.

Massachusetts gas prices

In terms of gas prices, there's some relief for drivers as prices have been declining across Massachusetts. AAA reports an average price of around $3.55 per gallon this week. Despite potential increases in demand over the holiday, AAA spokesperson Mark Schieldrop notes that refiners are increasing production to meet seasonal demands.

According to AAA, the Memorial Day weekend spans from Thursday, May 23 to Monday, May 27, 2024.