The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Ashburnham to Somerville

Do you have an upcoming road trip from Ashburnham to Somerville in Massachusetts and are unsure about the best places to visit? Well, you are in luck because we have put together a list of the top destinations to visit to make your journey more memorable. From historical landmarks, to breathtaking parks, and scenic routes, we’ve got you covered. Get ready for an adventure and let's hit the road!

As you embark on your journey towards Somerville, make sure you have enough time to stop and enjoy the beautiful sites that Massachusetts has to offer. Here are the top locations along the way that you should include on your trip.

1. Wachusett Mountain State Reservation

Wachusett Mountain State Reservation is a place that you don't want to miss during your road trip. The state park is located in Princeton and boasts over 3,000 acres of beautiful forests, meadows, and ponds. The park is a hiker’s paradise with more than 17 miles of trails leading to the summit of Wachusett Mountain, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

If you are looking for a more relaxed setting, the park also offers a picnic area where you can enjoy a meal with friends and family. During the winter season, the park becomes a skiing destination with six ski trails and four ski lifts, making it a great place for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

2. Concord, Massachusetts

Concord is a town located in Middlesex County and is known for its historical significance due to being the site of many battles during the American Revolution. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the Minute Man National Historical Park, which has many monuments, historical sites, and museums worth visiting. A visit to the Ralph Waldo Emerson House, where the famous poet spent his later years, and the Louisa May Alcott’s House, where the author wrote the novel Little Women, is also a must-see.

If you are looking for some entertainment and excitement, the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum should be on your list. The park has over 60 sculptures and an outdoor museum that spans across 30 acres of land. Concord has many restaurants and cafes that offer delightful cuisine, making it the perfect place to stop for a meal and rest before continuing your journey.

3. Walden Pond State Reservation

Walden Pond is a state reservation in Concord, and it is a place of inspiration for all nature lovers. The site was made popular by the famous philosopher and writer, Henry David Thoreau, who spent two years living in a cabin on the shores of the pond. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site or hike along the woodland trails that lead to the pond.

Swimming is allowed in Walden Pond, and visitors can rent paddleboats, rowboats, and kayaks to explore the pond. The park also has a visitor center, where you can learn about the history of the site, and a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.

4. Minute Man National Historical Park

The Minute Man National Historical Park is located in Concord and Lexington and is a place of significant historical importance as it was the site of the first battle of the American Revolution. The park has over 1,000 acres of forested trails, historic homes, and monuments that tell the story of the battle.

Visitors can watch the reenactment of the battle by the Minute Men and British soldiers, which takes place in April, along with guided tours. The park also has a visitor center, where you can learn about the history of the park, and exhibits that showcase the artifacts from the battle.

5. Mystic River Reservation

As you approach Somerville, the Mystic River Reservation should be on your list of places to visit. The park is located in the heart of the Mystic River Valley and spans over 7 miles of shoreline. The park offers many recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park has miles of trails that provide breathtaking views of the Mystic River and passes through marshlands, ponds, and forests. The park is also a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 250 species recorded to date. So grab your binoculars and get ready to spot some avian species.

Conclusion

Venturing on a road trip from Ashburnham to Somerville can be an exciting and memorable experience with the right stops. Be sure to take the time to explore these five places, each offering its unique charm and experiences. From historical landmarks to outdoor activities and scenic routes, these destinations will undoubtedly add to your road trip adventure. Pack your bags, buckle up, and hit the open road!