Road Trip to Bridgewater and Mattapoisett: Discovering Must-see Museums, Parks, and Landmarks

If you're looking for a fun and educational road trip destination in Massachusetts, Bridgewater and Mattapoisett are worth considering. These two towns have a wealth of museums, parks, and landmarks that offer visitors an unforgettable experience. In this blog post, we'll tell you about the must-see places in these towns that you shouldn't miss.

One interesting fact about this road trip is that both Bridgewater and Mattapoisett have a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. Bridgewater was first settled in 1650 and was initially known as "Winter's Farm," while Mattapoisett was first established as a fishing village in the late 1700s.

The halfway point of the road trip is Freetown, MA, which is located approximately 10 miles south of Bridgewater. Freetown has a fascinating history and is home to several landmarks and museums that celebrate its past.

The road trip from Bridgewater to Mattapoisett covers a distance of approximately 27 miles and takes around 45 minutes to complete. Although it's a relatively short distance, there are many interesting stops that you can make along the way.

Here are the top five places to visit on your road trip:

1. Bridgewater State University Observatory

If you're interested in stargazing, the Bridgewater State University Observatory is a must-visit. The observatory features a 16-inch telescope that offers visitors stunning views of the night sky. You can attend public stargazing sessions on select evenings throughout the year. The Observatory is located at 24 Park Avenue, Bridgewater.

Point of interest recommendation: After your stargazing session, take a walk around the Bridgewater State University campus. The campus is beautiful, especially during the fall when the leaves change color.

2. Horseneck Beach State Reservation

If you're looking for a place to relax and soak up some sun, Horseneck Beach State Reservation is the perfect spot. This 600-acre beachfront park boasts beautiful sandy beaches, scenic dunes, and crystal-clear waters. You can swim, surf, fish, or simply lounge on the beach and enjoy the views.

Point of interest recommendation: After a fun day at the beach, head over to Westport Rivers Vineyard and Winery, located about 10 miles north of Horseneck Beach. There, you can enjoy wine tasting, vineyard tours, and beautiful views of the Westport River.

3. New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park

The New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is a fascinating museum that explores the whaling industry that was crucial to the economy of New Bedford in the 19th century. The museum features exhibits that highlight the history and culture of the whaling industry, as well as the impact of whaling on the environment. The park is located at 33 William Street, New Bedford.

Point of interest recommendation: After visiting the museum, take a stroll around downtown New Bedford, which is renowned for its historic architecture, bustling restaurants, and shops.

4. Mattapoisett Historical Society Museum

The Mattapoisett Historical Society Museum is a small but fascinating museum that highlights the town's rich history. The museum features exhibits that highlight the town's maritime history, as well as displays showcasing local art and artifacts. The museum is located at 5 Church St, Mattapoisett.

Point of interest recommendation: After visiting the museum, take a short walk to Ned's Point Lighthouse, located at the end of Ned's Point Road. The lighthouse was built in 1838 and offers stunning views of Buzzards Bay.

5. Acushnet Saw Mills and Old Colony and Fall River Railroad Museum

The Acushnet Saw Mills and Old Colony and Fall River Railroad Museum is a unique museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the region's industrial past. The museum features exhibits showcasing the town's rich history, including photos, artifacts, and models of the old saw mills and train depots. The museum is located at 23 Leonard St, Acushnet.

Point of interest recommendation: After visiting the museum, head over to the Acushnet River Antiques Center, a large antique store located about a mile north of the museum. There, you can browse a wide selection of vintage items and collectibles.

Overall, the road trip from Bridgewater to Mattapoisett offers visitors a unique and engaging experience. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or culture, there's something for everyone in these two charming and picturesque towns. The trip takes about 45 minutes to complete, but with so many interesting stops, you'll want to take your time and explore everything these towns have to offer.