Park at Mass Pike and Ride the T to Boston

If you’ve ever driven into Boston on the Massachusetts Turnpike (a.k.a. the Mass Pike or I-90), you know… it’s an easy drive right up until you reach Boston city limits. Then, the last few miles, you’re gripping the steering wheel with all you’ve got, holding your breath changing lanes, inching along in traffic, watching the clock on your dashboard because you’re late to an event or meeting, and dreading shelling out big bucks for parking. And you’re probably thinking, “There has to be a better way!”

Fortunately, there is. If you’re traveling to Boston from the west, the trip becomes a joy when you park on the Mass Pike instead and take the train to Boston. If you’ve vowed many times while navigating those last few miles to figure out the best place to exit the Mass Pike, park, and ride into the city on an MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) commuter rail line, here are step-by-step instructions for how to save money and reduce stress by parking on the Mass Pike and taking the T into Boston.

Park at Riverside T Station

Begin your journey by programming your GPS to direct you to: 333 Grove Street, Newton, MA. This is the address for the Riverside T Station.

Alternatively, follow these directions: From the eastbound Mass Pike, take Exit 14 for I-95 S/MA-128 S. Then, take Exit 21B-22, and merge (turn right) onto Grove Street. The entrance to the Riverside T Station will be on your left.

Riverside Station is approximately 1-1/2 hours from Hartford, 2 hours from Brattleboro, and 2-1/2 hours from Albany.

Parking at Riverside Station is far more economical than parking at garages and lots in downtown Boston. As of 2019, parking at Riverside is $6 daily using PayByPhone.com. Compared to rates at the Garage at Post Office Square in the heart of Boston, which start at $9 for less than 30 minutes, you’ll appreciate this alternative!

Moreover, with spaces available for 731 vehicles, you can relax knowing the parking lot at Riverside T Station will likely never be full upon your arrival.

Where Exactly Is Riverside Station?

Riverside T Station is situated at the western terminus of Boston’s Green Line on the D Branch. Utilize a Green Line map to better understand your location.

Popular stops along the Green Line include Fenway Park, the Prudential Center, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Hynes Convention Center, Copley Square, North Station, TD Garden, Museum of Science, Boston College, Northeastern University, and Boston University. The Green Line also connects with the Red, Orange, and Blue Lines.

How to Take the T

Once you’ve secured parking and locked your car at Riverside T Station, proceed to the automated fare vending machines located near the train track to purchase your CharlieTicket. These machines accept debit or credit cards, cash, and coins.

Alternatively, you can use the MBTA’s free mTicket app to conveniently purchase your train fare anywhere, anytime, on your mobile device.

As of January 2019, traveling on the Green, Blue, Orange, Red, and part of the Silver Line between any stations costs $2.75 per ride with a CharlieTicket. Moreover, up to two children under 12 can ride for free when accompanied by an adult.

Wait for Your Departing Train

Proceed to the platform at the Riverside T Station and await your train. How frequently do trains depart from Riverside? During weekday rush hours, trains run every 6 minutes, while the longest wait at night is typically 13 minutes. Trains operate from 4:56 a.m. to 12:05 a.m.

If you’re curious about how long it will take to reach your final destination in Boston, use the MBTA’s convenient Trip Planner to map out your trip. This tool will help you discover connections to other rail/subway lines and buses, while also notifying you of any service disruptions. Plan ahead, and you will head into Boston on the T with confidence.