A Road Trip to Remember: From Brattleboro, Vermont to Swansea, Massachusetts
Traveling can be a wonderful adventure. Road trips, in particular, can take you through winding roads, scenic routes, and captivating landmarks. One such journey is from Brattleboro, Vermont to Swansea, Massachusetts. The 160-mile trek will take you through valleys, mountains, and small towns. Along the way, there are numerous attractions to behold. The halfway point is Sterling, MA, which is home to several wonderful sights, including the famous Wachusett Mountain. Here are the top five popular attractions to see on your road trip.
1. Bennington Battle Monument
Starting our journey from Brattleboro, your first stop should be at the iconic Bennington Battle Monument. The Monument is a 306-foot obelisk that commemorates the famous Revolutionary War Battle of Bennington. The monument was completed in 1891 and now stands in Bennington Battlefield State Park overlooking sweeping views of Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York. Climb up the stairs or take the elevator to the observation deck to get panoramic views of the surrounding vistas.
2. Mohawk Trail State Forest
As you head south down Route 2, Mohawk Trail State Forest is a must-visit attraction. The forest is spread across more than 6,000 acres of rolling hills and hardwood forests. It features hiking trails that offer views for miles and scenic drives that would take you past the Deerfield River. The state park has several campgrounds as well if you plan on spending a night. Make sure to stop and check out the historic Hairpin Turn, also known as Shelburne Turn, and have a picnic at Western Summit.
3. Old Sturbridge Village
One of the historical gems of Massachusetts, Old Sturbridge Village is an open-air museum that recreates an early 19th-century New England village. Visitors can walk along the dirt roads, peek inside homes, and chat with costumed interpreters who reenact everyday life as it was in the 1830s. It is an interactive way for people of all ages to experience life before the world of smartphones, microwaves, and cars. Moreover, there are craft demonstrations, horse-drawn carriage rides, and seasonal events.
4. Wachusett Mountain State Reservation
Our halfway point of Sterling, MA, is home to the fabulous Wachusett Mountain State Reservation. Wachusett Mountain offers over 250 acres of skiing and riding terrain, with 25 trails and 8 lifts. Even when there is no snow, the mountain is open for visitors to hike through miles of trails and admire the fall colors. The summit of Wachusett Mountain stands at 2006 feet elevation and offers spectacular views of Mount Greylock, Mount Monadnock, and the Boston skyline in the east.
5. Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum
Last but not least, as we head down to Swansea, Massachusetts, the Blithewold Mansion is a must-visit attraction. Blithewold is an extraordinary 33-acre garden estate that offers views of Narragansett Bay. The mansion and grounds were built by a wealthy Pennsylvania coal tycoon in the 1890s, and they depict the lifestyle of those times. The scenic landscape along with the charm of the house is sure to enchant any visitor. The gardens are home to more than 300 species of woody plants and flowers, and visitors can take a tranquil stroll through the landscaped gardens filled with exquisite blooms.
After your visit to the Blithewold Mansion, you can take the Route 24 down to Swansea, Massachusetts, ending your road trip on a memorable note.
Conclusion
The route from Brattleboro, Vermont to Swansea, Massachusetts, is filled with several picturesque attractions that offer a glimpse into the history and natural beauty of the region. From Bennington Battle Monument to Wachusett Mountain, and from Old Sturbridge Village to Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, each place is unique in its way. If you plan on taking this route, make sure you give yourself enough time to see all these places. The best way to experience the road trip is to embark on it with a spirit of adventure, an open mind, and a willingness to explore. Safe travels!