Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Auburn to Peabody, Massachusetts
A road trip is a great way to explore new places, and a drive from Auburn to Peabody, Massachusetts, is no exception. The drive takes around two hours, and the route offers scenic views of rural Massachusetts and picturesque small towns. During this trip, one could take a break at Wellesley, the halfway point of the journey, and discover a few hidden gems pretty much off the beaten track.
Welcoming the Halfway Point: Wellesley, MA
Wellesley is one of the significant towns along Route 9, which runs from Boston to Pittsfield. If one is traveling from Auburn to Peabody, Wellesley is perfectly positioned to offer a natural break from a long drive. With carefully manicured lawns and stately architecture, Wellesley is the epitome of New England charm. Visitors to Wellesley often cite it as a feeling of being transported back in time with its colonial buildings and narrow streets. The town is known for its education institutions, including Wellesley College and Babson College. While driving through Wellesley, you might spot a few unique structures, including two vintage beacons that sit atop old fire stations and the Wellesley Square train station sign, a famous landmark. Treat yourself to some rejuvenating coffee at The Cottage, situated in the heart of Babson College, during the pit stop.
1. Fitchburg Art Museum, Fitchburg, MA
Housed in a stunning 19th-century mansion in the heart of Fitchburg, the Fitchburg Art Museum is an absolute treasure trove of art. The museum boasts over 20,000 objects of American and European paintings, prints, and photographs. Their vast collection of African art is also a highlight of the museum. Anyone interested in art, history, and architecture should make a stop at this museum. The Fitchburg Art Museum is an ideal place to stretch one's legs, enjoy some art, and take a stroll around its lovely Victorian gardens. A visit to the museum is incomplete without a bite of crispy fish or chicken from the historic Templeton Fish and Game Club.
2. Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge, MA
If you are in search of an interactive way to explore life in a typical New England village of the 1830s, Old Sturbridge Village should be the ideal place for you. The living museum is home to a working farm, vast orchards, and more than 50 historic buildings. The museum area also features a River Walk that winds its way along the Quinebaug River, and visitors can take a ride on an authentic stagecoach or visit a blacksmith shop. Some other highlights include touring the house of glass, the shoe shop, and the pottery shop. Visitors can also grab an authentic New England meal at the Bullard Tavern, an 1830s country tavern that serves hearty meals to visitors.
3. The Salem Witch Museum, Salem, MA
A visit to Salem is always a must-do visit for anyone visiting Massachusetts. The town is a tourist favorite, and its place in history as the site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials has been cemented in history. The Salem Witch Museum is one of the town’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors to the museum will find highly detailed displays of the witch trials and the history of witchcraft. The presentation features live performances that are part re-enactment and part documentary. Be sure to check out the town's maritime history while in Salem and head to Turner's Seafood, renowned for its spicy lobster roll and clam chowder.
4. The Witch House, Salem, MA
Built-in 1642, The Witch House is another must-visit destination in Salem. The Witch House was home to Jonathan Corwin, a Salem witch trials judge, and the only standing structure in Salem that has direct ties to the trials. Visitors get the chance to explore the restored interior and learn the story of the trials from Corwin's perspective. With its austere architecture and ominous history, The Witch House gives its visitors a genuine feeling of the Salem Witch Trials era. As a classic lunch option, head to Derby Joe Sandwich Shop and grab a delectable sub!
5. Great House of The Crane Estate, Ipswich, MA
Situated approximately 10 miles from Salem is the Great House of the Crane Estate in the town of Ipswich. The way to the house itself is breathtaking, with its charming gardens, the mansion at the estate is a must-visit attraction. The property is now a part of The Trustees of Reservations, a historic preservation group that often hosts art and music events, making The Crane Estate a popular destination for cultural events and picnics. The magnificent forty-acre grounds provide the visitors with a lot to explore, including extensive gardens, scenic trails, and breathtaking views of the Ipswich River. One might want to visit Ithaki Mediterranean Cuisine restaurant nearby and indulge in the savory souvlaki or mouth-watering stuffed grape leaves.
Conclusion
With so much to see and explore along the way, the Auburn to Peabody drive is an ideal choice for a day trip. The town of Wellesley is a perfect spot to take a break from driving and soak in some colonial history before embarking on the next part of the journey. The remaining four spots listed above offer a mix of art, history, and culture, all set amidst the scenic beauty of Massachusetts. Don't forget to sample some of Massachusetts's delicious cuisine while exploring these unexpected places. A road trip from Auburn to Peabody comes highly recommended, and you won't regret spending a day discovering these five hidden gems.