Best Places to See When Driving from Andover to Bedford

If you’re planning to venture out of Andover and straight into the heart of Middlesex County, be prepared to be amazed by the wealth of historical and cultural landmarks that dot the landscape on your way to Bedford. From the picturesque forests to pristine lakes and charming towns, the scenic drive from Andover to Bedford is a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

If you’re traveling on this route, here are some of the top places to see, explore and experience.

1. Great Brook Farm State Park

Nestled in the town of Carlisle, Great Brook Farm State Park boasts of a serene pastoral setting, wide open spaces, and a chance to view adorable farm animals. Visitors can enjoy numerous trails that wind through the park, with miles of stunning forests, rolling meadows, and bubbling streams for hikers, bikers and skiers alike. There is also a petting zoo that houses an array of farm animals, including cows, goats, geese, rabbits and sheep.

2. Old North Bridge

One of the most iconic landmarks in Middlesex County, the Old North Bridge in Concord is a must-visit for anyone traveling through the Andover to Bedford route. The bridge is best known for its association with the American Revolutionary War, where the British Army faced the Colonial militia in the Battle of Concord in 1775. Now, visitors can walk across the bridge and view the Revolutionary War Monument erected to commemorate the fallen soldiers.

3. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

For lovers of literature, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord is an ideal place to visit. The cemetery is the final resting place of many famous American literary figures, including Louisa May Alcott, Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Visitors can view the graves of these literary icons and learn about their contributions to American Literature through guided tours of the cemetery.

4. The Wayside

Once the home of famous authors Nathaniel Hawthorne and Louisa May Alcott, The Wayside is a historic home located in the historic district of Concord. The house has borne witness to the lives of some of America’s most celebrated writers, and visitors can explore the different rooms where these literary greats penned some of their most remarkable works. With tours regularly offered at The Wayside, visitors can even learn about the home’s history and restoration.

5. Minuteman National Park

Minuteman National Park covers a vast area of nearly 1,000 acres in nearby Lexington and Concord. Visitors can enjoy the many hiking trails that wind through the park, including the Battle Road Trail. The trail is a 5.5-mile stretch that follows the route taken by the British soldiers on their way to Concord during the famous rebellion of 1775. Along the way, visitors can view historical monuments and explore the 18th-century buildings in the park.

Conclusion

With such an array of historical sites, natural wonders, and literary landmarks, taking a scenic drive from Andover to Bedford is a must-do for anyone living in the region. Whether you’re a history buff, literary enthusiast, hiker, or someone who loves to be amidst nature, you can be sure to find something to interest you on this route. So pack up your car, get ready for an adventure, and enjoy what Middlesex County has to offer.