Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Amesbury, MA to Bedford, MA

The drive from Amesbury to Bedford is one filled with small-town charm, beautiful scenery, and plenty of interesting stops along the way. The journey takes approximately an hour and 20 minutes, covering 43 miles of picturesque Massachusetts countryside. The route we will be taking runs along I-95 and US-3, passing through several towns and cities along the way, including Lawrence, the halfway point of the journey. Buckle up and get ready to explore five unexpected places to stop on your road trip from Amesbury to Bedford!

Halfway Point: Lawrence, MA

Lawrence, located halfway between Amesbury and Bedford on I-495, is a former mill town that has experienced a resurgence in recent years. It's a city steeped in history, culture, and tradition that's worth a visit. Highlights of Lawrence include the Lawrence Heritage State Park, which offers visitors a glimpse into the city's industrial past; the Essex Art Center, which hosts exhibitions and classes for local artists; and the Merrimack Valley Textile Museum, which provides insight into the region's rich textile history. If you're feeling peckish, make sure to try a slice of pizza at Sal's Pizza, widely regarded as one of the best pizzas in Massachusetts.

1. Lowell, MA: Mill Town Turned Cultural Hub

Lowell, located in the heart of the Merrimack Valley, is a city that's well worth a visit. Once home to a thriving textile industry, Lowell has transformed itself into a cultural hub that boasts numerous museums, galleries, and performance spaces. The Lowell National Historical Park is a must-visit, providing visitors with insight into the city's industrial past. Other attractions include the New England Quilt Museum, which chronicles the rich history of quilting in the region, and the Whistler House Museum of Art, which showcases the work of American artist James McNeill Whistler. Make sure to stop by Cobblestones Pub & Grill for some delicious American food; it’s a local favorite!

2. Concord, MA: The Birthplace of American Literature

Concord, located just 15 miles west of Boston, is a beautiful town that's steeped in history. It's known as the birthplace of American literature, as it's where authors such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Louisa May Alcott, and Henry David Thoreau lived and worked. The town boasts several historic homes and museums, including the Wayside, which was home to Louisa May Alcott and Nathaniel Hawthorne, and the Ralph Waldo Emerson House. If you're feeling hungry, make sure to head to the Colonial Inn, where you can enjoy classic New England fare in a beautifully restored 18th-century inn.

3. Waltham, MA: History and Innovation

Located just 10 miles west of Boston, Waltham is a city that's steeped in history and innovation. It's known as the “Watch City,” as it was once home to the Waltham Watch Company, one of the largest watchmakers in the United States. The company's legacy lives on in the Waltham Watch Factory Historic District, a beautifully restored complex of 19th- and 20th-century industrial buildings. Other attractions in Waltham include the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation, which provides insight into the city's industrial past, and the Gore Place, a beautiful Federal-style mansion that's open for tours. If you're looking for a delicious meal, you can’t go wrong with the seafood at the Chateau Restaurant.

4. Burlington, MA: A Shopper's Paradise

Burlington, located 15 miles north of Boston, is a shopper's paradise. It's home to the Burlington Mall and Wayside Commons, two of the largest shopping centers in the region. If shopping isn't your thing, there are other attractions worth visiting, such as the Burlington Historical Museum, which chronicles the town's history, and the Burlington Landlocked Forest, a beautiful nature reserve that's perfect for hiking and birdwatching. For some tasty Italian food, make sure to stop by Ristorante Euno.

5. Lexington, MA: Where the American Revolution Began

Lexington, located just 15 miles west of Boston, is a town that's steeped in American Revolutionary War history. It's the site where the first shots of the war were fired, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs. Attractions in Lexington include Buckman Tavern, where the town's militia gathered on the eve of the Revolutionary War; the Lexington Battle Green, where the actual battle took place; and the Lexington Historical Society, which has a wealth of exhibits and artifacts relating to the town's history. For some delicious coffee and pastries, make sure to stop by Peet's Coffee & Tea.

Conclusion

The journey from Amesbury to Bedford is not only beautiful but also filled with hidden gems that are worth exploring. From the birthplace of American literature to the town where the American Revolution began, there's something for everyone on this road trip. Between each destination, visitors can take in the rolling hills and picturesque countryside that make Massachusetts such a beautiful state. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your car keys and hit the road; you won't be disappointed!