Best Places to See on a Road Trip from Billerica, MA to North Kingstown, RI

Are you planning a road trip from Billerica, Massachusetts to North Kingstown, Rhode Island? You're in for a treat, as both these quintessential New England towns offer plenty of sights and experiences along the way. From scenic routes and coastal views to historical landmarks and quaint villages, this road trip offers a little bit of everything. Here are some of the top places to see when driving from Billerica to North Kingstown.

Route 1A Coastal Drive

Start your road trip by taking the scenic Route 1A Coastal Drive, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The drive starts in Salisbury, which is less than an hour's drive from Billerica, and continues through Newburyport, Plum Island, and Ipswich, before joining back with Route 1. Along the way, there are several state parks, beaches, and historic sites that you can stop and explore.

One of the must-visit places on this scenic drive is Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which offers over 4,700 acres of protected land and miles of trails for hiking and bird watching. Another popular stop is Newburyport, a charming coastal town with a rich maritime history. You can take a stroll through its historic downtown, grab a bite to eat at one of its many restaurants, or even hop on a whale watching tour.

Salem, Massachusetts

Next up on the road trip is the historical town of Salem, Massachusetts - just a 30-minute drive from Newburyport. Known for the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692, Salem offers a glimpse into America's colonial history. You can start by visiting the Salem Witch Museum, where you'll learn about the events that led to the witch trials and the subsequent executions.

Other must-visit sites in Salem include the House of Seven Gables, a 17th-century mansion made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel of the same name, and the Peabody Essex Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world. And of course, no visit to Salem would be complete without grabbing a slice of pizza from the famous Salem Pizza and Subs shop.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Continuing north along the seacoast, the next stop on the road trip is Portsmouth, New Hampshire - just an hour's drive from Salem. Portsmouth is known for its charming waterfront district, where you can stroll through the town's historic streets and admire the 18th-century buildings.

One of the must-visit sites in Portsmouth is the Strawbery Banke Museum, which features dozens of restored historic homes and exhibits dating back to the 1600s. You can also visit the USS Albacore Museum, which honors the legacy of the USS Albacore, a naval research submarine that played a crucial role in the Cold War.

Newport, Rhode Island

As you continue south towards North Kingstown, the next stop on the road trip is the picturesque seaside town of Newport, Rhode Island - just a 30-minute drive from Portsmouth. Newport is best known for its opulent mansions, which were once owned by wealthy industrialists and are now open to the public for tours.

One of the most famous of these mansions is The Breakers, a 70-room Italian Renaissance-style villa that was once the summer home of the Vanderbilt family. Other notable mansions include Marble House, Rosecliff, and The Elms. And if you're looking for a little more adventure, you can explore Newport's scenic Cliff Walk, which offers stunning ocean views and takes you past some of the town's most beautiful mansions.

Narragansett, Rhode Island

As you approach North Kingstown, the final stop on the road trip is Narragansett, Rhode Island - just a 15-minute drive from Newport. Narragansett is known for its pristine beaches and charming boardwalk, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

One of the must-visit spots in Narragansett is the Point Judith Lighthouse, which dates back to 1810 and offers stunning views of the ocean and coastline. You can also visit the Scarborough State Beach, which boasts over a half-mile of beachfront and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

Conclusion

A road trip from Billerica to North Kingstown is the perfect way to experience the charm and beauty of New England. From the scenic Route 1A Coastal Drive to the historic towns of Salem, Portsmouth, and Newport, and the stunning beaches of Narragansett, this road trip offers something for every traveler. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories.