Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Boscawen, New Hampshire and Lowell, Massachusetts
Are you planning a road trip between Boscawen, New Hampshire and Lowell, Massachusetts? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the top five places to visit along the way. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, these stops are sure to satisfy any traveler's interests.
The Route and Halfway Point: Derry, NH
First, let's take a look at the route. From Boscawen, head south on I-93 towards Manchester, NH. Continue on I-93 until you reach Exit 4 for NH-102 towards Derry/Londonderry. Take this exit, and you will find yourself in the charming town of Derry, NH, our halfway point.
Derry offers a range of activities for visitors, including parks and trails for outdoor enthusiasts, a historical district for those interested in architecture and local history, and a vibrant downtown with shops and restaurants. Grab a bite to eat and recharge before continuing on your journey.
1. Canterbury Shaker Village
"Step Back in Time at this Living History Museum"
The Canterbury Shaker Village is a unique living history museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of the Shakers, a religious community that once thrived in the 19th century. Take a guided tour of the preserved buildings, including the dwelling house, the dairy, and the famous round barn. Visitors can also participate in workshops and demonstrations, such as basket weaving and woodworking, to learn more about Shaker culture and craftsmanship. Don't forget to stop by the museum store to purchase authentic Shaker goods, including herbs, jams, and handmade furniture.
2. Minute Man National Historical Park
"Relive the First Battle of the American Revolution"
Located in Concord, MA, the Minute Man National Historical Park commemorates the events that led up to the first battle of the American Revolution on April 19th, 1775. Visitors can take a self-guided tour along the Battle Road Trail, which passes by key locations of the battle, including the North Bridge and the Hartwell Tavern. The park also offers guided tours, living history demonstrations, and a visitor center with exhibits and a bookstore.
3. Walden Pond State Reservation
"Escape to the Serene Waters of Walden Pond"
Walden Pond, located in Concord, MA, is famous for inspiring Henry David Thoreau's "Walden," a classic work of literature about living a simpler life. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, fishing, and boating on the serene waters of Walden Pond. The reservation also has picnic areas and a visitor center with exhibits about Thoreau's time at Walden Pond.
4. Lowell National Historical Park
"Explore the History of America's Industrial Revolution"
Lowell, MA was once a booming textile center during America's Industrial Revolution, and the Lowell National Historical Park offers visitors the chance to explore that history. Take a guided trolley tour of the city, including stops at the Boott Cotton Mills Museum and the Waterpower Canal Museum. The park also offers boat tours, bike rentals, and a visitor center with exhibits about Lowell's past and present.
5. Salem, MA
"Discover the Witchcraft Trials and Haunted History"
No trip to the Boston area is complete without a visit to Salem, MA. Salem is infamous for the witchcraft trials of 1692, and visitors can explore that dark history at sites such as the Salem Witch Museum and the Witch House. Salem also offers ghost tours, maritime history, and a bustling downtown with shops and restaurants.
After all of these exciting stops, you will be ready to continue on with your road trip. We hope this list has inspired you to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the area between Boscawen, NH and Lowell, MA. Happy travels!