Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Boylston, Massachusetts and Barre, Massachusetts

Boylston, Massachusetts, and Barre, Massachusetts are two charming towns located in Worcester County. A road trip between these two towns provides opportunities to enjoy the picturesque scenery, historical landmarks, and splendid attractions. The halfway point of the road trip is Rutland, MA, which boasts of several coffee shops, local boutiques, and quaint restaurants. Here are some of the best things to do during the journey.

Visit the Wachusett Reservoir

The Wachusett Reservoir is a vast water body that stretches across twelve towns in central Massachusetts, including Boylston. The reservoir provides not only a source of water but also an awe-inspiring sight for visitors. People can take a relaxing walk or bike ride along the paved paths that travel around the reservoir. It's an ideal spot for a picnic or family outing, as there are plenty of grassy areas and playgrounds. Interesting Fact: The Wachusett Reservoir was created in 1898, and since then, it has provided water to Boston and numerous other surrounding towns.

Explore the Quabbin Reservoir

The Quabbin Reservoir is a man-made wonder that supplies drinking water to Boston. The vast body of water is surrounded by four towns, and visitors can learn more about the reservoir by visiting the Quabbin Visitors Center. An interesting fact about Quabbin is that it used to be four towns (Dana, Enfield, Greenwich, and Prescott). When the reservoir was created in 1938, the towns were disincorporated and officially ceased to exist. Today, the area is ideal for hiking, bird watching, and fishing.

Discover the Wachusett Mountain

For anyone who loves hiking, the Wachusett Mountain is the ideal place to visit. The mountain offers a natural habitat for several species, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. The trails around the Wachusett Mountain offer a range of hiking options, from easy to challenging, and provide magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. During winter, the mountain caters to snow enthusiasts, with skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing available. Interesting Fact: Wachusett Mountain is the highest point in Massachusetts east of the Connecticut River.

Visit Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village is a living history museum that provides visitors with a glimpse into life in New England during the 1830s. The village is an amalgamation of historic buildings, workshops, and people dressed in 1830s attire. Visitors are encouraged to participate in hands-on exhibits, such as making candles, making bread, and blacksmithing. An interesting fact about Old Sturbridge Village is it has a working water-powered sawmill.

Stop by Brimfield Flea Market

Anyone who enjoys bargain hunting should make a stop at Brimfield Flea Market. It is held three times a year, and vendors come from all over the country to sell their wares. The flea market offers a variety of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items. Visitors can spend hours walking through the fields and browsing the vast selection. An interesting fact about the Brimfield Flea Market is that it started over sixty years ago and has grown to become one of the largest outdoor antique shows in the country.

Conclusion

The road trip between Boylston and Barre is packed with exciting activities and breathtaking views. It takes approximately twenty minutes to get from Boylston to Rutland and an additional twenty-five minutes to reach Barre. The journey offers opportunities to explore the outdoors, learn about New England's history, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a good bargain. By following this itinerary, travelers can enjoy the best of both worlds - a scenic drive and exciting adventures.