The Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Acton to Lowell

The drive from Acton, Massachusetts to Lowell, Massachusetts is about 20 miles long and can take up to half an hour depending on traffic. While the drive might sound short and perhaps not worth a stop, there are plenty of fun and exciting places to visit along the way. From scenic parks to historical sites, a quick trip from Acton to Lowell can be both pleasant and informative. Here are some top places to visit, whether you are taking a leisurely drive or just passing through.

Discovering the Best Destinations on the Road Trip

1. Great Brook Farm State Park

Great Brook Farm State Park, located in Carlisle, Massachusetts is a beautiful place to stop along the way. The park is great for hiking or even a family picnic thanks to the picturesque views of hills and pastures along with well-marked trails. The park is best known for its ice cream production and dairy farm which are open to visitors. You can sample some of their homemade ice cream or even bring home some of their fresh eggs.

2. The Concord Hapgood Wright Town Forest

On the way to Lowell, you should also consider visiting the Concord Hapgood Wright Town Forest. This natural space has seen minimal human construction which means you can enjoy the raw beauty of nature. The forest is filled with well-groomed trails for hiking and beautiful vistas to enjoy. Additionally, the wildlife is just part of the attraction, with a vast array of birds and small mammals to catch sight of. This is a must-visit for nature lovers and aspiring photographers.

3. Lowell National Historical Park

Once you reach Lowell, the Lowell National Historical Park is a must-visit. As the name suggests, this park is packed with history, making it ideal for anyone interested in the past. There are tons of exhibits to see, including the Boott Cotton Mills Museum, an indoor museum that takes visitors through the Mill’s history. You will also learn about Lowell’s Industrial Revolution history, the rise of mills, and the transformation of transportation. The park is also the perfect place to take a stroll and relax as you explore the enchanting riverwalk.

4. The Whistler House Museum of Art

If you are an art enthusiast, the Whistler House Museum of Art should be on your list of must-visit. The museum is known for its collection of James Abbott McNeill Whistler’s art, a famous painter whose work has left an indelible mark on society. Visitors can take a tour starting from the museum's front room, filled with memorabilia and paintings featuring the house and industrial Lowell. It is best to book ahead as groups can book tours with the artist guides.

5. The Lowell Cemetery

Lastly, no visit to Lowell is complete without visiting the Lowell Cemetery. The 250-acre cemetery is packed with history, with graves ranging from the 19th century to the present. There is a lot to see, including the grave of famous labor union leader Big Bill Haywood and the Jack Kerouac gravesite, which receives a lot of visitors each year. The cemetery provides a beautiful reminder of the town’s early days, and a lot of Lowell history is buried there.

Conclusion

Even though the journey from Acton to Lowell is only 20 miles long, there are plenty of interesting and exciting places to explore along the way. That's what makes a quick road trip in this area worth it. Great Brook Farm State Park, The Concord Hapgood Wright Town Forest, and the Lowell National Historical Park and are just a few of the best places you can stop at. Take in the exciting history, unique culture, and the incredible scenery along the way.