The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Amherst, Massachusetts to City of Beacon, New York

Are you looking for an exciting road trip adventure from Amherst, Massachusetts to the City of Beacon, New York? This 166-mile drive offers breathtaking scenery and famous attractions that will surely make your trip worth it. Here, we have compiled a list of the top places to see when driving from Amherst to City of Beacon that you should not miss!

The Natural Wonders of Massachusetts and Connecticut

1. Skinner State Park (116 Reservation Rd, Hadley, MA 01035)

Touted as one of the most beautiful locations in Massachusetts, Skinner State Park offers panoramic views of the Holyoke Range, the Connecticut River, and Mount Tom. This picturesque park spans over 400 acres, providing visitors with a chance to explore natural beauty, hike along trails, and take in the stunning scenery. Offering a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this is a must-visit spot for those who love the great outdoors.

2. Kent Falls State Park (462 Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent, CT 06757)

If picturesque waterfalls are your thing, then you cannot miss Kent Falls State Park in Connecticut. Kent Falls offers a beautiful view of cascading waters that fall over 70 feet before plunging into a pool below. Take a walk along the hiking trails and relax in the natural beauty of this 295-acre park. Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery, which transforms into a winter wonderland in the colder months.

3. Bear Mountain State Park (3020 Seven Lakes Dr, Tomkins Cove, NY 10986)

One of the most popular state parks in New York, Bear Mountain offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors. Spanning over 5,000 acres, you can enjoy a picnic, hike, bike, boat, or even ice skate here in the winter. While hikers have a choice of several trails that lead up to scenic viewpoints, the Perkins Memorial Tower Observation Deck is the best place to capture the breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the surrounding area.

The Historic Places in Massachusetts and New York

4. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery (540 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591)

For those who want to explore history, the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in New York is an excellent stop. This cemetery was made famous by Washington Irving's classic tale, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." Visitors can walk through the rolling hills draped with autumnal foliage and search for gravesites belonging to notables such as Andrew Carnegie, Elizabeth Arden, and Walter Chrysler. The cemetery also offers trolley tours for a more guided visit.

5. Old Sturbridge Village (1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA 01566)

Step back in time and witness living history at Old Sturbridge Village. This museum features more than 40 restored buildings depicting life in early 19th century New England. Visitors can experience life as it was in the 1830s, wandering through the village, attending demonstrations, and participating in hands-on activities. The village is open year-round, and there are seasonal events that will surely delight visitors.

The Creative Places to Visit on the Way

6. Mass MoCA (1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams, MA 01247)

Carry on exploring the creative side of Massachusetts and head over to Mass MoCA. This world-renowned museum brings together galleries, live events, and performing arts under the same roof. Boasting the largest collection of contemporary art in Massachusetts, visitors can immerse themselves in exhibits featuring contemporary artists, musical performances, and theater productions on a giant stage.

7. Dia: Beacon (3 Beekman St, Beacon, NY 12508)

No trip to Beacon is complete without a visit to Dia: Beacon. Located in the former Nabisco box printing factory, Dia: Beacon covers nearly 300,000 square feet and serves primarily as a space for Minimally Conceptual, Conceptual, and Minimal Art. The museum's collection comprises artworks of more than 60 artists, including Richard Serra and Dan Flavin. Art lovers should make sure this is high on their list when they visit Beacon.

Conclusion

Driving from Amherst to Beacon offers a wide variety of exciting and breathtaking places to see. Whether you prefer to explore natural wonders, historic sites or creative places, this road trip has got you covered. Skinner State Park, Kent Falls, Bear Mountain State Park, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Old Sturbridge Village, Mass MoCA, and Dia: Beacon are just some of the places you should not miss. And don't forget, the journey itself provides unmatched scenic views of the Northeast, making this road trip a must-visit!