Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Auburn, Massachusetts to Wayland, Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, there is always a road trip waiting for you. Whether you're looking for scenic beauty or a taste of history, you'll find something that fits your interests. The drive from Auburn to Wayland is no different. This 38-mile journey takes about an hour, and you'll discover several gems en route. From antiques, ice cream, and hiking trails to the arts and a fascinating museum, you'll find unexpected destinations.
As you leave Auburn, take Route 20 east until you reach the Mid-State Trailhead near Route 9 in Ware. The Mid-State Trail is approximately 92 miles long and crosses through Worcester County, the Montachusett Region, and central Massachusetts. However, you won't have to travel the entire trail to enjoy its beauty. Hikers will find stretches of seclusion and peacefulness alongside Mount Grace, Wachusett Mountain, East Mountain, Midstate Trail, Rufus Grey Conservation Area, and other state parks. This drive is ideal for a day trip or a weekend escape, perfectly suited for outdoor enthusiasts.
Halfway through the drive, travelers arrive at Southborough, MA. The small town of Southborough offers lush, green landscapes, hiking and biking trails, and unique shopping and dining experiences. Stop in the middle of Main Street for a scoop of homemade ice cream at the Tubbs Meadow Ice Cream, a popular destination for locals and tourists. Choose from over 30 traditional and unique flavors to satisfy your sweet tooth. Now that you're fueled up, let's continue with the adventure.
1. Marlborough Historical Society
Massachusetts residents know the critical role the state played in the revolutionary war. The Marlborough Historical Society offers insight into the city's cultural and historical events. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours through 11 historic buildings. Add the majestic Peter Rice homestead to the historical itinerary. This meticulously restored, 1800's Greek Revival style architecture offers a glimpse of how a middle-class family lived, besides showcasing the various stages of preservation. The Marlborough Historical Society is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys history or architecture. When visiting, don't forget to try the famous Marlborough Cookies, the signature dish of Marlborough.
2. Nashoba Valley Winery
Located in Bolton, the Nashoba Valley Winery is a 52-acre hillside estate, established in 1978. It offers a delightful ambiance, including grape growing, wine production, wine tasting, and vineyard tours. Enjoy a romantic, tranquil day out amidst stunning scenic vistas. Nashoba wines are handcrafted, using local and exotic fruits from different regions. Guests can also purchase artisanal spirits, hard ciders, and beer at the winery. Afterward, guests can cherish a meal from the hillside and live music as they sip their glass of vino.
3. Assabet River Rail Trail
The Assabet River Rail Trail spans the Marlborough, Hudson, Stow, and Maynard region, for yet another beautiful escape to nature. The 12.5-mile long trail offers picturesque views of tree-lined trails, wetlands, and forest habitats. The trail surface is part stone dust and part paved, ideal for walking, running, cycling, and trekking. It also provides rest spots and picnic areas for trekkers to take breaks and absorb the surrounding nature. The fall season is the best time to visit, with views of vivid foliage colors and the chance of spotting wildlife.
4. Wayside Inn Grist Mill
No visit to Massachusetts would be complete without an educational experience, and that's where the Wayside Inn Grist Mill comes in. Located in Sudbury, the Grist Mill was initially established in 1929 to honor Henry David Thoreau's legacy. This mill has an exciting history. Built-in 1929, the mill replaced the original, which burned down in 1924. It derives its power from the brook, which comes down from the hills. Visitors can explore and learn about the manufacturing process of cornmeal and pure maple syrup while appreciating the picturesque location. After the tour, indulge in mouth-watering American cuisine in the Wayside Inn Restaurant.
5. The Amazing Things Arts Center
The Amazing Things Art Center is a non-profit, multi-faceted organization situated in Framingham. It has been bringing incredible culture and community together through music, literature, art, theatre, and dance since 2003. Regularly hosting small concerts by rising artists, open mic events, and traditional concerts, this art center marks the end of your Auburn to Wayland drive. The audience can even interact with the performing artists, giving them the chance to embrace a more intimate experience. Indulge in some local cuisine before or after the show at the Artisan's Kitchen and Café, just down the street.
In conclusion, traveling from Auburn to Wayland has numerous places to stop and enjoy the scenery, culture, and taste buds. From the outdoor beauty, essential history, exquisite wine, and art, you'll find everything in your itinerary. However, every adventure should involve food that represents the region's taste. Here's a list of must-have food destinations in each location:
- Southborough: Homemade ice cream from Tubbs Meadow Ice Cream.
- Marlborough: Marlborough Cookies, of course.
- Bolton: Nashoba Winery for a glass of their renowned vino.
- Sudbury: Mouth-watering American cuisine in the Wayside Inn Restaurant.
- Framingham: Local cuisine from Artisan's Kitchen and Café.
Thus, get behind the wheel and discover all the beauty in this Auburn to Wayland drive, it's the perfect weekend escape to nature, art, and history.