Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Ashburnham, MA, to Chesterfield, NH

If you are looking for a peaceful yet picturesque drive that will take you through some of the most beautiful and verdant parts of Massachusetts and New Hampshire, you may want to embark on a journey from Ashburnham, MA, to Chesterfield, NH. The distance between these two places is about 60 miles, and typically, it takes around one and a half hours to cover the distance. However, if you are a traveler who relishes the journey as much as the destination, and if you want to enjoy some offbeat and exciting places en route, here are five such places that you shouldn’t miss.

Jaffrey, NH: The Halfway Point

As you travel 30 miles from Ashburnham, MA, you’ll reach Jaffrey, NH, which is considered the halfway point of this route. This is a beautiful town that often finds a place in the list of “Best Small Towns” in New Hampshire. While you are here, don’t forget to stop by Mount Monadnock, which is one of the most climbed mountains in the world. Additionally, Jaffrey offers many picturesque hiking trails that are suitable for both beginner and experienced hikers.

1. The Red Apple Farm, Phillipston, MA

As you continue driving for approximately ten miles from Ashburnham, you will come across the Red Apple Farm, a picturesque orchard located in Phillipston, MA. This is a family-friendly place where you can pick your apples, enjoy delicious hot cider, and enjoy the spectacular views of the farm’s orchards. The farm often organizes seasonal events, such as a pumpkin festival, blueberry picking, and so on, making it an ideal place for a family day out. While you are here, don't forget to try their hot apple cider donuts, which are a local favorite.

2. Natural Bridge State Park, North Adams, MA

A 50 minutes' drive from Phillipston, you will enter North Adams, MA, which is home to one of the most unusual natural formations in Massachusetts – the Natural Bridge State Park. Here, you can explore an ancient gorge carved through bedrock by glacial meltwaters that once flowed into the valley. Additionally, there is a 60-foot natural bridge that offers an excellent view of the park. Apart from this geological wonder, North Adams is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, which includes the famous Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art.

3. Kurn Hattin Homes for Children, Westminster, VT

As you cross the state line and enter Vermont, you’ll come across the Kurn Hattin Homes for Children, located in Westminster, VT. This is a must-visit place that offers a unique blend of history and serenity. The campus is spread over 280 acres of verdant meadows, woodlands, and pastureland, and it was established in 1894 to provide a home for needy orphans. Over the years, the campus has grown to offer excellent educational opportunities, and many renowned people, including Robert Frost, visited the campus. While you are here, consider trying the local favorite – maple creemee, which is often available at the gift shop.

4. Santa's Land USA, Putney, VT

A 20-minute drive from Westminster, VT, will take you to Santa's Land USA, located in Putney, VT. This is a historic amusement park that was opened in 1957. The park is a fun place for kids and adults alike, with various attractions such as rides, petting zoo, and live shows. It is also the only park in America where you can meet Santa Claus and his elves all year round. Additionally, there is a gift shop that sells various treats, including freshly made fudge, which is a local favorite.

5. Madame Sherri Forest, Chesterfield, NH

As you reach the last leg of your journey from Ashburnham to Chesterfield, don’t forget to stop at the Madame Sherri Forest, located in Chesterfield, NH. This is a beautiful 513-acre forest that was once the estate of Madame Antoinette Sherri, an eccentric French woman who made a name for herself in the entertainment industry in New York City. The forest offers many picturesque hiking trails and an impressive arched staircase, which was once part of Madame Sherri's extravagant mansion. While you are here, don’t forget to try the local delicacy – maple syrup – which is often available at the nearby sugar shack.

Conclusion

If you are looking for an offbeat yet exciting journey, then a drive from Ashburnham, MA, to Chesterfield, NH, could be an excellent choice. Along the way, you can explore some of the most beautiful and unique places that Massachusetts and New Hampshire have to offer. From the Red Apple Farm's orchards to the Natural Bridge State Park's geological wonder, from Kurn Hattin Homes for Children's unique blend of history and serenity to the excitement of Santa's Land USA, and finally, from the Madame Sherri Forest's picturesque hiking trails to the local maple syrup delicacy, this route has something for everyone. So pack your bags and set off on a journey that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.