Points of Interest between Bellingham, Massachusetts to Manchester, New Hampshire

picture of Bellingham, Massachusetts

Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Bellingham, MA to Manchester, NH

If you're planning a road trip from Bellingham, Massachusetts to Manchester, New Hampshire, there are plenty of museums, parks, and landmarks to visit along the way. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just looking for a fun road trip pit stop, there's something for everyone on this route.

Did you know that Bellingham, Massachusetts was originally part of the town of Mendon, which was first settled in 1662? The town was renamed Bellingham in 1719 in honor of Richard Bellingham, a colonial governor of Massachusetts.

Halfway between Bellingham and Manchester is the town of Westford, Massachusetts. This historic town was founded in 1729 and was once home to many mills, including the famous gunpowder mill that supplied gunpowder for the American Revolution.

The drive from Bellingham to Manchester takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Along the way, you'll pass through beautiful New England towns and scenic countryside, making it the perfect road trip for nature and history lovers alike.

Top 5 Places to Visit

  1. Wachusett Mountain State Reservation - Located in Princeton, MA, Wachusett Mountain State Reservation offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and miles of hiking trails. Hike to the summit for expansive views of the Boston skyline and on a clear day, you can see as far as Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire.

Pro Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch at the summit!

  1. Sturbridge Village - Step back in time at this living history museum in Sturbridge, MA. Costumed interpreters demonstrate life in 19th-century New England, including blacksmithing, farming, and cooking. Visit the farm animals, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and shop at the country store for souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Pro Tip: Check the calendar for special events, such as the annual fall cider and harvest festival!

  1. Old Sturbridge Village Visitors Center and Museum Shop - If you only have time for a quick stop, make sure to visit the Visitor Center and Museum Shop at Old Sturbridge Village. Here you can explore exhibits on 19th-century life in New England, purchase unique gifts and souvenirs, and watch a short film about the history of Sturbridge Village.

Pro Tip: Don't forget to try some of the homemade fudge!

  1. Lowell National Historical Park - Learn about the history of the Industrial Revolution at Lowell National Historical Park in Lowell, MA. This park encompasses the Lowell canal system, mills, and worker housing, providing visitors with a glimpse into life in a 19th-century industrial city.

Pro Tip: Take a guided boat tour of the canals to see the historic mills up close and learn about the process of textile manufacturing!

  1. Currier Museum of Art - Discover a world-class collection of European and American art at the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester, NH. From Impressionist paintings to contemporary sculptures, there's something for everyone at this stunning museum.

Pro Tip: Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Zimmerman House, located next door to the museum!

Point of Interest Recommendations

  1. Wachusett Mountain State Reservation - Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water for hiking up to the summit. It can get steep at points, but the views are worth it!
  2. Sturbridge Village - If you're visiting with kids, take them to the children's discovery area, where they can dress up in period clothing, play old-fashioned games, and participate in hands-on activities.
  3. Old Sturbridge Village Visitors Center and Museum Shop - Don't miss the chance to try some of the homemade fudge – it's delicious!
  4. Lowell National Historical Park - Check out the "Mill Girls and Immigrants" exhibit at the Mill Girls and Immigrants Interpretive Center to learn about the lives of the workers who made Lowell a thriving city in the 19th century.
  5. Currier Museum of Art - Take advantage of the free audio guides to get more information about the artworks and special exhibits on display.

Overall, the road trip from Bellingham to Manchester is a perfect way to experience all the beauty and history that New England has to offer. The trip takes just over an hour and a half, but with so many amazing museums, parks, and landmarks to visit along the way, you can easily turn it into a day trip or even a weekend getaway. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy all that this scenic route has to offer!