Is Lowell near Boston?

Yes, it is about 30 miles northwest of Boston.

Can I take a bus all the way?

There are no direct buses from Ellsworth to Lowell; you must transfer in Boston.

Is the train expensive?

The MBTA Commuter Rail is very affordable, usually under $15 for a one-way ticket.

What is the best highway?

I-95 South to I-495 South is the standard route.

Are there hotels in Lowell?

Yes, there are several hotels located in the downtown area near the historical park.

Ellsworth

Lowell

Train Driving

Ellsworth to Lowell

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Ellsworth to Lowell is a straightforward drive south through Maine and New Hampshire into Massachusetts. Covering roughly 400 kilometers, the most common path is I-95 South to I-495 South. Lowell is a historic mill city located at the confluence of the Merrimack and Concord rivers. Public transit involves a bus to Boston followed by the MBTA Commuter Rail Lowell Line.

Total Distance: 400 km driving distance, 350 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest option, typically taking under 5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical choice for individuals or families.

Compare Ellsworth to Lowell Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	4 hours 45 mins
Avg Price	$100-$140	$65-$85 in fuel
Operator	Concord Coach + MBTA	Personal Vehicle
Route	Bus to Boston, then MBTA Commuter Rail from North Station.	I-95 S to I-495 S.
Tip	The MBTA Commuter Rail is reliable and avoids city traffic.	I-495 can be very busy during rush hour; plan your arrival accordingly.

Travel Tips

Commuter Rail
Check the MBTA website for the latest Commuter Rail schedules to Lowell.
Traffic
Avoid I-495 during the 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM windows.
Parking
Lowell has several municipal parking garages downtown that are reasonably priced.
Navigation
Use Waze or Google Maps to find the best exit off I-495 for your specific destination.
Tickets
Buy your MBTA ticket via the mTicket app to save time at the station.

Safety Tips

Driving
Stay alert for construction zones on I-95 in New Hampshire.
Personal Safety
Like any urban area, keep your belongings secure in public spaces.
Weather
Be prepared for sudden rain showers, which are common in the Merrimack Valley.
Emergency
Keep your phone charged; the drive is long and you may need navigation assistance.