Road trip from NYC

NYC to Cape Cod

Classic New England beaches, dunes and seafood.

~5 hours · ~260 miles from New York City

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Cape Cod is a quintessential New England summer escape, about 5 hours from NYC. A car is essential for exploring the Cape's towns, beaches and the Cape Cod National Seashore — and for reaching the ferries to Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket.

Trip highlights

  • Cape Cod National Seashore and dune beaches
  • Provincetown, Chatham and the charming Cape towns
  • Ferry connections to the islands
  • SUV recommended for gear and the distance

Driving tips

Mind the bridge traffic

Summer weekend traffic over the Bourne and Sagamore bridges onto the Cape is heavy. Travel early or mid-week if you can.

NYC to Cape Cod FAQs

About 5 hours and 260 miles. It's a long-weekend trip; a car is essential once you're on the Cape since the towns and beaches are spread out.

Renting a car for the trip

Compare deals for your dates in the search below. For longer hauls, consider an SUV or full-size car, and if you're flying back rather than returning to the city, check out a one-way rental.

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