<p>twinmom,
We’ve stayed at the Comfort Inn and Suites in Ludlow, MA, just off the Mass Pike–quiet, comfortable, and reasonably priced. You can also check Springfield, MA, as well (home of Dr. Seuss!).</p>
<p>For your trip to Beantown, you may want to stay at the Doubletree Guest Suites in Waltham–it’s right off Route 128 (aka 95). It’ll provide easy access to route 16 that will lead you to Wellesley College, as well as going north to visit Tufts (in Medford, just down I-93). You can also jump on the Pike to get into Boston. You can check also check out the Newton Marriott that is very close to the entrance to the Pike as well as to 128.</p>
<p>If you’re driving to Brown in the morning, you’ll be going against traffic, so about an hour will suffice. It takes us about an hour or so to get to Amherst from Boston–you’re taking non-highway roads part of the way, so it’ll take a little longer. From central MA, I-91 will be a straight shot down to New Haven.</p>
<p>Do remember during your trip to Boston, that if there’s a game at Fenway Park, Kenmore Square and all roads leading to it will be crazy, so avoid them like the plague!</p>
<p>I’m looking forward to my AARP discount in a few years … I’ll need it with my two in college at the same time! There should indeed be a CC discount.</p>
<p>The highlight of my searching for tours, info sessions and hotels was finding that the Eric Carle Picture Book Museum is in Amherst … with a special exhibit on Goodnight Moon through April. I sure hope we can squeeze in a few moments to spend there, though with this itinerary I am doubtful. </p>
<p>Much as I am into this college admissions process, Goodnight Moon and The Very Hungry Caterpillar beat info sessions any day of the week, IMHO.</p>
<p>I use my AARP discount as much as possible. Also, some schools do have discounts through local hotels, whereas others, e.g., UCLA, have a “hotel” (UCLA’s Guest House) on its campus for visitors. Admissions offices will have that info.</p>