Top Places to See When Driving From Amherst, Massachusetts to Cambridge, Massachusetts

Are you planning a road trip from Amherst, Massachusetts to Cambridge, Massachusetts? This route takes you right through the heart of New England, offering stunning scenery and plenty of places to stop and explore. Starting in Amherst, you'll be surrounded by the rolling hills and quaint small towns of western Massachusetts, before making your way to the bustling city of Cambridge. In this blog post, we'll highlight some of the top places to see along the way.

The Quabbin Reservoir

Your first stop on the journey from Amherst to Cambridge should be the Quabbin Reservoir. Located just north of Amherst, this massive man-made reservoir supplies drinking water to millions of people in Massachusetts. Not only is the Quabbin Reservoir an engineering marvel, it's also a beautiful place to visit. There are several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the reservoir and the surrounding forests. If you're lucky, you may even spot some of the resident wildlife, including bald eagles, beavers, and black bears.

Old Sturbridge Village

If you're interested in history, be sure to stop at Old Sturbridge Village. This living history museum is located just off the Massachusetts Turnpike and offers a glimpse into what life was like in rural New England during the 1830s. You can explore more than 40 historic buildings, including a blacksmith shop, a country store, and a schoolhouse. There are also costumed interpreters who will demonstrate traditional crafts, cooking techniques, and farming practices. Kids will love the hands-on activities and the opportunity to interact with the animals in the village.

Worcester Art Museum

If you're an art lover, don't miss the Worcester Art Museum. This museum is home to an impressive collection of American and European art, as well as decorative arts, photographs, and prints. Highlights of the museum's collection include works by Monet, Rembrandt, and John Singer Sargent. There are also rotating exhibitions featuring contemporary art and artists from around the world. The museum is located just off Interstate 290 and offers plenty of parking.

Wachusett Mountain

As you continue east on Route 2, you'll come to Wachusett Mountain. This popular ski resort offers hiking trails, scenic chairlift rides, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Even if you're not a skier, it's worth taking the chairlift to the summit, where you can see all the way to Boston on a clear day. There's also a restaurant and bar, so you can grab a beer and a bite to eat while taking in the view.

Walden Pond

No trip to Massachusetts is complete without a visit to Walden Pond. This iconic spot is where Henry David Thoreau lived for two years, writing his famous book Walden. The pond is located in Walden Pond State Reservation, which offers hiking trails, a beach for swimming, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. You can also visit the replica of Thoreau's cabin and learn more about his life and work.

Conclusion

There you have it, our top picks for places to visit on your journey from Amherst to Cambridge. From beautiful natural landscapes to fascinating museums and historic sites, there's something for everyone along this route. So pack your bags, hit the road, and explore all the best that Massachusetts has to offer.