The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Abington, MA to Southbridge, MA

Are you ready to hit the road? The drive from Abington, Massachusetts to Southbridge, Massachusetts is a beautiful one. At just under two hours in driving time, this trip offers the perfect opportunity to explore some of the best small towns and hidden gems in Massachusetts. Whether you're looking for stunning vistas, historic landmarks, quaint local shops, or mouth-watering food, this journey has it all. Here are five must-see spots to add to your itinerary:

As you drive into Southbridge, you'll be greeted by the town's iconic “Welcome to Southbridge” sign. This sign has been a staple in the town since 1949 and has become a local landmark. The sign features the town name and the slogan “Proud of our Past, Ready for our Future.” Take a moment to snap a picture of the sign as a memento of your visit to Southbridge.

Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village is a living history museum that takes visitors back to the early 19th century. The village has over 40 restored buildings from the period, including homes, barns, and shops. Visitors can see costumed interpreters working and demonstrating traditional crafts, such as spinning, weaving, blacksmithing, and woodworking. The village is also home to a working farm and hosts events and activities throughout the year.

The Tower Hill Botanic Garden

The Tower Hill Botanic Garden is a stunning 171-acre garden that features over 17 different gardens, including a vegetable garden, a life-sustaining garden, and over 350 species of trees and shrubs. The garden is situated on a hill that overlooks Wachusett Reservoir and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a stroll through the gardens, enjoy a picnic, or attend one of the many events that the garden hosts throughout the year.

The Worcester Art Museum

The Worcester Art Museum is home to over 38,000 works of art, including paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, and photographs. The museum's collection ranges from ancient art to contemporary art and includes works by Monet, Rembrandt, and Andy Warhol. The museum also hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year.

The Burgess Elementary School Playground

The Burgess Elementary School in Sturbridge has one of the best playgrounds in Massachusetts. The playground is open to the public and has a wide range of equipment, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. The playground is well maintained and provides the perfect spot for a quick break from driving.

Unwind at Rapscallion Brewery

After a full day of exploring, head to Rapscallion Brewery, a local brewery that serves up delicious, handmade beers and ciders. The taproom is located in Sturbridge and has a relaxed vibe with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. The brewery offers a rotating selection of beers and ciders, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

Conclusion

The drive from Abington, Massachusetts to Southbridge, Massachusetts offers the perfect opportunity to explore some of the hidden gems and must-see spots in Massachusetts. From living history museums and botanical gardens to local playgrounds and breweries, there is something for everyone on this road trip. If you're planning on taking this trip, be sure to add the above-listed must-see spots to your itinerary for an unforgettable journey.