Points of Interest between Auburn, Massachusetts to Lowell, Massachusetts

picture of Auburn, Massachusetts

The Best Road Trip From Auburn to Lowell

Road tripping from Auburn, Massachusetts to Lowell, Massachusetts is a sure way to fuel your wanderlust. With each mile you cover, you'll discover scenic landscapes, charming towns, and iconic landmarks. The 46.9-mile drive takes approximately 50 minutes if you follow the quickest route. However, there's so much to see and do that might make you stretch your journey into a day or weekend trip. This guide highlights the top places to see when driving from Auburn to Lowell to help you make the most out of your journey.

A Glimpse Of The Best Places You Absolutely Must See On Your Way To Lowell

  1. Worcester Art Museum - If you're a lover of arts and history, Worcester Art Museum should be your first stop. This world-class museum houses over 35,000 artworks that date back to ancient civilizations, medieval Europe, and contemporary African and American cultures. From delicate Asian ceramics to European Impressionism, you'll find something to marvel at in the museum's expansive galleries.

  2. EcoTarium - About five miles from Worcester Art Museum, you'll find EcoTarium, a science and discovery museum that is ideal for families. The museum offers a unique blend of indoor and outdoor exhibits where you can observe and interact with wildlife, study astronomy, learn about human anatomy, space exploration, and so much more.

  3. Westville Recreation Area - Continue driving on the Massachusetts Turnpike, and you'll arrive at Westville Recreation Area. This serene park has an array of outdoor activities to suit both adults and youngsters. Take a leisurely hike, jog around the park, or have a picnic with your family while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Blackstone Valley.

  4. Old Sturbridge Village - A short drive south of the Massachusetts Turnpike is Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum that gives you a glimpse into 19th century rural New England life. The museum boasts over 40 authentic buildings, including a sawmill, a printing press, a blacksmith's shop, and a country store, among others. Visitors can explore the village and check out demonstrations by museum staff such as shoe-making, weaving, and plowing with oxen.

  5. Bancroft Tower - Finally, you can drive up Route 20 to reach Bancroft Tower. This 56-feet tower, made of granite, was built in 1900 by the Worcester native, Stephen Salisbury III to honor his friend, George Bancroft. The tower offers an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts, writers, and anyone looking to catch stunning views of the neighboring towns and cities.

Digging Deeper Into The Must-See Places

  1. Worcester Art Museum

At Worcester Art Museum, you'll find an extensive collection of world and American art that spans over 50 centuries. The museum's exhibits include Greek and Roman antiquities, European art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, pre-Columbian American art, and modern and contemporary art. One of the highlights of the museum is the Higgins Armory, which showcases one of the most significant collections of arms and armor in the world. Furthermore, the museum offers various programs throughout the year, including art talks, lectures, concerts, films, and events for kids.

  1. EcoTarium

EcoTarium has a mission to inspire a passion for science and nature through its interactive and engaging exhibits. One of the popular outdoor exhibits is the Explorer Express Train, which takes visitors on a scenic ride through the woods, wetlands, and ponds that represent Massachusetts' distinctive ecosystems. The museum also houses three floors of indoor exhibits featuring live animals, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities. Plan to spend the day at EcoTarium to ensure you experience everything.

  1. Westville Recreation Area

Westville Recreation Area is a 400-acre park located where the Blackstone River meets the West River. The park offers an array of activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The park's hiking trails are rated easy to moderate, and you'll encounter stunning views of the river and surrounding forests. If you're lucky, you might spot a great blue heron or a belted kingfisher along the river's edge. The park also has picnic areas with tables and grills, open fields for games, and a playground for kids.

  1. Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village is an authentic reproduction of a 19th century rural New England town. Visitors can step back in time and explore the 40 original buildings, including homes, farms, and businesses, which are staffed by costumed interpreters demonstrating daily activities. You can watch craftsmen create period furniture, pottery, and textiles, or take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage. The village has several restaurants and snack bars where you can dine on traditional New England fare.

  1. Bancroft Tower

Bancroft Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Worcester. The tower, which resembles a castle, was constructed in 1900 and offers panoramic views of Worcester and surrounding towns. You can climb up the steep, winding staircase that leads to the top of the tower for a bird's eye view of Massachusetts. The park around the tower has picnic tables, benches, and a playground for kids. Note that the park is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the area on foot.

Conclusion

Now that you have an idea of the top places to see when driving from Auburn to Lowell, it's time to plan your road trip. The journey is full of surprises, and you'll encounter many exciting stops along the way. Whether you're interested in art, history, science, or just want to enjoy nature, there's something for everyone on this road trip. So, pack your bags, hop in the car, and hit the road to discover the best this part of Massachusetts has to offer.