Points of Interest between Bridgewater, Massachusetts to Gardner, Massachusetts

picture of Bridgewater, Massachusetts

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bridgewater to Gardner

Have you ever wanted to explore Massachusetts, but didn't want to take the usual tourist stops? Are you tired of the typical highways and interstates? Look no further than this scenic drive from Bridgewater to Gardner. With a plethora of greenery, wildflowers, and winding roads, this drive is perfect for adventurers who want to experience something new.

Starting in Bridgewater, follow Route 24 North until you reach Interstate 495 North. Take the exit for Route 9 and follow it until you reach Gardner. This drive will take you approximately two hours and 30 minutes. Along the way, there are plenty of unexpected places to stop and explore.

Halfway Point: Westborough, MA

Before we dive into the unique stops, we must highlight the halfway point in Westborough. This charming little town is known for its historic charm and easy accessibility to both Boston and Worcester. The renovated Westborough State Hospital is now a walking path with beautiful views of Mill Pond and Lake Chauncy.

  1. Fruitlands Museum - Located in Harvard, MA, Fruitlands Museum is an outdoor museum that features four distinct galleries. The museum has a vast collection of art, history, and natural science items. With over 210 acres of Native American trails, hiking paths, and scenic views, Fruitlands Museum is the perfect stop to stretch your legs and learn something new. Be sure to grab a snack at their café, which serves homemade pies and other treats.

Favorite Food: Homemade Pies

  1. Wachusett Mountain - This year-round attraction in Princeton, MA, is known for its winter sports, but it also has hiking trails, a scenic byway, and a children's playground. At 2,006 feet above sea level, Wachusett Mountain has one of the most excellent panoramic views of the Boston skyline. Be sure to bring your camera and to stop by the Mountain Gift Shop for some souvenirs to remember your visit.

Favorite Food: Maple Syrup

  1. Davis' Farmland & Mega Maze - This Sterling, MA, farm is not your average petting zoo. Davis' Farmland has interactive exhibits that children and adults alike will enjoy. Visitors can learn about agriculture in a fun and interactive way. They also have a Mega Maze, which is a three-dimensional corn maze that takes over an hour to complete.

Favorite Food: Freshly Picked Corn

  1. Clark University's Sackler Sciences Center - This Worcester, MA, science center is not only the home of Clark University's biology, chemistry, and physics departments, but it also houses antique science frontiers. The science collections include telescopes, microscopes, globes, and a vast array of rare scientific instruments. It's a perfect place for science enthusiasts or anyone looking to expand their academic horizons.

Favorite Food: Local Pizzerias

  1. Coggshall Park - Located in Fitchburg, MA, Coggshall Park is 25 acres of hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Visitors can find the Coggshall Park Beach on Mirror Lake, which is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, fishing, and boating. Make sure to bring a picnic lunch and relax by the water or hike on the many trails that provide stunning views of the park and the surrounding hills.

Favorite Food: New England Clam Chowder

Conclusion

The Bridgewater to Gardner drive is a beautiful and scenic route filled with unexpected stops that are sure to please everyone. Whether you are a science enthusiast or a lover of nature, there is something for everyone on this trip. Make sure to bring your camera, some hiking shoes, and a hungry belly, because each of these stops provides something to explore and a delicious food to taste. Embark on this new journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.