Embarking on a road trip between Boxborough, Massachusetts and Andover, Massachusetts can be a thrilling and eye-opening experience. Along the way, you will come across some of the most popular attractions and beautiful scenery that will make the journey worth it. Here are the top five must-see places that you should include on your itinerary.
Route and Halfway Point
Before we dive into the attractions, let's highlight the route you'll take and the halfway point, Chelmsford, MA. Starting from Boxborough, you'll take MA-119 W and MA-2 E towards Andover. This 38.4-mile journey is estimated to take about an hour. The halfway point is Chelmsford, MA, a town with a rich history and gorgeous landscapes. Make a stop here and explore the Charles F. Ayotte Memorial Park or visit the Chelmsford Historical Society to learn about the town's past.
Top Five Places to See
Maudslay State Park - Located in Newburyport, MA, Maudslay State Park is a 480-acre park with a bevvy of beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and wildlife. The park is an oasis of serenity and an ideal place to unwind. Take a stroll through the gardens, have a picnic, or take a guided horseback ride. The park opens year-round and offers free admission.
The Addison Gallery of American Art - This is one of the best art museums in the region, specializing in American art. The Gallery features over 20,000 pieces of art, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings. Take a tour and gain an understanding of different art styles and artists, such as Winslow Homer, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Edward Hopper.
The Stevens-Coolidge Place - Dating back to the early 20th century, the Stevens-Coolidge Place is an impressive mansion and garden situated in North Andover, MA. The landscape is beautiful and expansive, covering over 90-acres of land. The garden is designed to draw visitors in with its captivating beauty and vibrant colors. It's a perfect spot for reading, picnicking and taking long walks.
The Boott Cotton Mills Museum - This landmark textile mill turned museum holds historical and educational significance. Located in Lowell, MA, the museum portrays the process of cotton manufacture, from raw material to finished products. It is also home to interactive exhibits, including an interactive textile museum experience where you can try your hand at weaving your cloth.
The Trustees of Reservations - This association oversees a myriad of secret gardens, beaches, farms and waterfalls that dot Massachusetts. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to preserving and protecting land, which includes over 119 properties located throughout Massachusetts. They have walking trails for all levels of abilities that take you through beautiful scenery and unforgettable sights.
Conclusion
The best route from Boxborough to Andover is through Chelmsford, which serves as a midway point. Along the way, make stops at these top five attractions to experience the best of Massachusetts. Embarking on a road trip to these attractions will give you a new appreciation for Massachusetts's rich history, unmatched natural beauty and vibrant arts scene.