Top Places to See When Driving from Bellingham, MA to Barrington, RI
Are you planning a road trip from Bellingham, Massachusetts to Barrington, Rhode Island? If so, you’re in for a treat because there are plenty of cool places you can stop at along the way. From scenic coastal towns to historic landmarks and everything in between, this 70-mile journey has something for everyone. So, buckle up and get ready to explore some of the top places to see on your road trip.
A Coastal Adventure
The scenic coastal towns of Massachusetts and Rhode Island offer a plethora of exciting experiences, one of which is whale watching. If you plan on visiting New Bedford, don't miss out on the Whale Watching Adventure by the New Bedford Whaling Museum. Visitors can easily spot humpbacks, finbacks, and minke whales, among others. Alternatively, head to Newport and spend your day basking in the radiance of the sun-kissed beaches. Get your coffee fix at Empire Tea & Coffee, before you hit the famous Cliff Walk, an exceptional three-and-a-half-mile path with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
A Journey into History
From the American Revolution to the Industrial Revolution, this region played a crucial role in the nation's development. Thus, history buffs will find plenty of intriguing landmarks peppered along Route 152 from Bellingham to Barrington. Start your historic journey with the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park in Cumberland, where you can witness firsthand how the region played a significant role during the industrial revolution. A few miles down the road in Pawtucket, dive deeper into the past with a visit to the Slater Mill Museum. The museum features tours, exhibits, and historical reenactments of Rhode Island's textile industry. Lastly, make your way to Bristol to bask in the historic beauty of the Colt State Park, where historical buildings, well-manicured gardens, and scenic views await.
1. The Rhode Island State House
First up on our list is The Rhode Island State House, an architectural marvel located right in the heart of Providence. The State House is a magnificent white-domed building that stands out prominently among the surrounding landscape. You can explore the building's interior to learn about the history of the state and snap some great pictures of the grand entrance. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the State House, where they find out about the architecture and interesting tales behind the building’s construction.
2. Franklin Park Zoo
No adventure is complete without a visit to the zoo, and the Franklin Park Zoo boasts a vast variety of wildlife worth exploring. It is a perfect place to learn about different species from around the world while observing animals that you may not find in your backyard. The zoo features over 1000 animals across 72 acres. Some of the most extraordinary creatures you’ll spot include lions’ tigers, bears, gorillas, zebras, giraffes, kangaroos, and many more! It’s an awe-inspiring experience to see animals up close and learn more about conservation.
3. Slater Mill Museum
As mentioned earlier, the Slater Mill Museum is an excellent destination for history buffs seeking to learn more about America's textile revolution. Samuel Slater, an English immigrant, started the mill in 1793, and it acted as a focal point for industrial manufacturing during the early nineteenth century. The museum provides visitors with an immersive experience of being in a textile mill during its days of operation. You can witness the elements of the manufacturing process, including using the water-wheel powered machinery, and the role the mill played in the development of the area.
4. Cape Cod Canal
A journey on a scenic drive is incomplete without a stop at the Cape Cod Canal, a startling waterway that runs through Cape Cod. The canal connects Buzzards Bay to the north with Cape Cod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean in the south. The 7-mile long canal is an ideal spot for fishing, boating, and enjoying the stunning water views. The Canal Visitor Center offers guided programs where visitors learn about the canal's engineering feats and the significance of the canal in shaping the country's economic and military history.
5. Colt State Park
Colt State Park is a lush green expanse of historic buildings, manicured gardens, and breathtaking views of the Narragansett Bay. If you're traveling with your family, it's a perfect spot to let the kids run around and play or to enjoy a peaceful picnic by the seaside. The park boasts a fantastic bike path, which is suitable for a scenic bike ride. It also features hiking trails that lead to quiet and serene areas. Lastly, the woodlands offer a habitat for various wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and rabbits, and there's a picnic area where visitors can enjoy an outdoor meal.
Conclusion
Now that you have the list of top places to see on your road trip from Bellingham, Massachusetts, to Barrington, Rhode Island, it's time to hit the road. This scenic drive of not more than two hours guarantees an ample opportunity for fun, adventure, and learning. You'll want to take your time along the way so that you can savor all the exciting landmarks this area has to offer. Whether you're on a solo journey or traveling with your family, this road trip will provide you with memories that will last a lifetime.