A Scenic Road Trip from Barnstable to Middleborough

There's something about a scenic road trip that captures the spirit of adventure, making us want to pack our bags and hit the open road. If you're planning a road trip from Barnstable, Massachusetts, to Middleborough, you're in for a treat. Set against the stunning canvas of the Massachusetts landscape, this journey is filled with natural beauty, history, and culture that you won't want to miss. In this blog post, we've compiled a list of the top places to see when driving from Barnstable, Massachusetts, to Middleborough, Massachusetts, to help you plan your trip.

Beautiful Cape Cod Scenery

The journey from Barnstable to Middleborough begins with a drive along the South Shore of Cape Cod, a beautiful natural area filled with beaches, forests, and quaint coastal towns. Here are some places to stop along the way:

1. Sandy Neck Beach Park

Located in Barnstable, Sandy Neck Beach Park is a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy a day in the sun, surf, and sand. The six-mile beach offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. There are also hiking trails through the dunes, marshes, and forests that surround the beach.

2. Sandwich Boardwalk

As you leave Barnstable, take a detour to the little town of Sandwich, where you'll find the famous Sandwich Boardwalk. Built in 1875, the boardwalk takes you across the marshes and tidal flats to the sand dunes and the water's edge, providing stunning views of the scenic Cape Cod Bay.

3. Scusset Beach State Reservation

Continue your drive along Route 6A until you reach Scusset Beach State Reservation. Nestled at the end of the Cape Cod Canal, Scusset Beach is the perfect spot for fishing, beachcombing, and relaxing with your loved ones. The park also offers facilities for camping, picnicking, and hiking.

Historical Gems and Cultural Attractions

As you leave Cape Cod behind, you'll enter Plymouth County, home to dozens of historical sites and cultural attractions that are worth a visit. Here are a few places to add to your list:

4. Plymouth Rock and Mayflower II

When you think of Massachusetts, one of the first things that comes to mind is likely the Pilgrims' landing at Plymouth Rock. A visit to Plymouth Rock is a must, as is a tour of the Mayflower II, a full-scale replica of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to America.

5. National Monument to the Forefathers

Located in the heart of Plymouth, the National Monument to the Forefathers is a towering granite monument that honors the Pilgrims' ideals of faith, freedom, and democracy. The monument is striking in its size and beauty and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the early colonists.

6. King Caesar House

If you're a history buff, you'll want to visit the King Caesar House in Duxbury, a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion that showcases the architectural and cultural history of the region. The house is filled with period furniture, artwork, and artifacts that give visitors a glimpse into life in colonial Massachusetts.

A Journey Through Nature

As you continue your road trip from Plymouth County towards Middleborough, you'll be treated to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Massachusetts. Here are a few places to add to your itinerary:

7. Myles Standish State Forest

Located in Plymouth County, Myles Standish State Forest is a sprawling nature preserve that spans more than 12,000 acres of forests, lakes, hills, and rivers. The park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, beavers, and foxes.

8. Nemasket River

As you enter Middleborough, take a detour to the Nemasket River, a scenic waterway that flows through the heart of town. The river is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching, and its banks are home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

9. Oliver Mill Park

Located along the Nemasket River, Oliver Mill Park is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Middleborough. The park features a historic grist mill, a playground, and plenty of green space for picnicking, frisbee, and lounging. Visitors can also take a stroll along the river, enjoying the beauty of this peaceful corner of Massachusetts.

Conclusion

Whether you're a lover of history, nature, or simply the open road, this road trip from Barnstable to Middleborough is an unforgettable journey that showcases the best that Massachusetts has to offer. From the beaches and dunes of Cape Cod to the tranquil rivers and forests of Plymouth County and Middleborough, there's something here for every kind of traveler. We hope that this list has given you some inspiration for your trip and that you'll discover even more hidden gems along the way. Happy travels!