Top Places to See When Driving from Billerica, Massachusetts to Francestown, New Hampshire

If you're looking for a scenic road trip close to Boston, driving from Billerica to Francestown is an excellent option. It's a picturesque drive that takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, covering around 50 miles. Along the way, you'll encounter quaint towns, beautiful scenery, and historic landmarks. In this blog post, we are going to explore some of the best places to see when driving from Billerica to Francestown.

1. Lowell National Historical Park, Lowell, MA

Lowell National Historical Park is an excellent place to start your journey. Located in Lowell, MA, it's only a short drive south of Billerica. Here you'll find a beautiful blend of history and natural beauty. This park commemorates America's first large-scale integrated factory system that produced textiles. The park includes numerous museums, historic buildings, and parkland dotted with lovely gardens and fountains. The visitor center is an excellent place to begin your visit, where you can watch a short film on the park's history and pick up brochures on the different attractions.

2. America's Stonehenge, Salem, NH

Located an hour north of Lowell, America's Stonehenge in Salem, NH, is a must-see attraction. Here you'll encounter a maze of rocks and stone structures that are believed to be as old as 4,000 years. The site features stone walls, chambers, and underground passages carved into the bedrock. The archeological mystery attracts tourists worldwide. Some believe it's proof that ancient people visited America long before Columbus arrived. Besides the historical significance, the attraction offers miles of hiking trails, picturesque picnic spots, and an excellent place for a sunset stroll.

3. The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens, Newbury, NH

The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens, located in Newbury, NH, is a spectacular attraction that shouldn't be missed. This historic estate was once the summer home of John Milton Hay, America's twenty-seventh Secretary of State. The 83-acre estate encompasses formal gardens, lush woodlands, and beautiful views of Lake Sunapee and Mount Kearsarge. The tour of the estate is a great way to learn about the Hay family's fascinating history and admire the impressive architecture and design of this country estate. It's a perfect spot to enjoy nature, relax, and take in the peaceful surroundings.

4. Currier Museum of Art, Manchester, NH

Manchester, NH, is home to the Currier Museum of Art, one of the best art museums in New England. The museum features a permanent collection that includes paintings, sculpture, photography, and decorative arts. It houses works by famous artists such as Monet, Picasso, and O'Keeffe. The museum's galleries are well-organized, with descriptive labels that help visitors better understand and appreciate the art. The architecture of the museum itself is a work of art. It's a must-see spot for art lovers and anyone who appreciates the beauty of artistic expressions.

5. Shattuck Windmill Hill Farms, Temple, NH

Shattuck Windmill Hill Farms offers a unique experience for visitors. It's a farm-to-table restaurant, market, and organic farm situated in Temple, NH. The farm produces organic fruits, vegetables, and pasture-raised meats. The menu features a seasonal selection of dishes created by the chef from what's available on the farm. The restaurant itself is a restored 18th-century farmhouse with charming ambiance, a cozy fireplace, and lovely views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can grab lunch, pick up organic produce from the market, or visit the farm animals. It's an excellent spot to enjoy delicious food and learn more about sustainable farming practices.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a scenic road trip close to Boston, driving from Billerica to Francestown is an excellent option. Lowell National Historical Park, America's Stonehenge, The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens, Currier Museum of Art, and Shattuck Windmill Hill Farms are some of the best places to visit along the way. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there's something for everyone in this charming region of New England. So gather your friends and family and hit the road to explore the beauty of Massachusetts and New Hampshire.