Road Trip: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks
Are you planning a road trip from Brookline, Massachusetts to Manchester, New Hampshire? If so, make sure to carve out some time to visit some of the great museums, parks, and landmarks along the way. Here are our top picks for places to stop and explore.
Fun fact: Did you know that the distance between Brookline and Manchester is approximately 50 miles? This means that you can easily make this a day trip or take your time and spend a weekend exploring.
Halfway Point: Methuen, MA
Methuen, Massachusetts is located about halfway between Brookline and Manchester. While there aren't many well-known attractions in Methuen itself, this town is home to The Loop, a large outdoor shopping center that offers plenty of dining and shopping options. It's a great place to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat before continuing on your journey.
The Length of the Trip
The trip from Brookline to Manchester takes about an hour and a half by car, depending on traffic. It's a pretty easy drive, with a few tolls along the way. Keep in mind that the best time to travel is on weekends or early in the day during the week to avoid rush hour traffic.
Top 5 Places to Visit
- Currier Museum of Art (Manchester, NH) - The Currier Museum of Art is a must-see attraction if you're visiting Manchester. It's home to an impressive collection of art, including works by Monet, Matisse, and Picasso. The museum also hosts changing exhibitions throughout the year, so there's always something new to see.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a stroll around the museum's outdoor grounds, which include a sculpture garden and plenty of open space to relax.
- Canobie Lake Park (Salem, NH) - Canobie Lake Park is a fun and exciting destination for the whole family. This amusement park has a little bit of everything, including thrill rides, water rides, and kiddie rides. There's also plenty of food and games to enjoy.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the park's signature ride, the Yankee Cannonball, an old-school wooden rollercoaster that's been a fan favorite for over 80 years!
- Robert Frost Farm (Derry, NH) - Literature fans won't want to miss the chance to visit the Robert Frost Farm in Derry, New Hampshire. This is the former home of poet Robert Frost, and visitors can tour the farm and learn about Frost's life and work.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Hike the nearby trails of nearby Taylor Mill State Park for some lovely views and time spent in nature.
- America’s Stonehenge (Salem, NH) - This mysterious site in Salem, New Hampshire has been the subject of much speculation. It's thought to be an ancient astronomical calendar or even a sacrificial site. Visitors can explore the stone structures and learn about the theories surrounding its origins.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a guided tour of the site for an in-depth look at the theories and science behind this fascinating landmark.
- Lowell National Historical Park (Lowell, MA) - The Lowell National Historical Park is a great place to learn about the history of industry in America. This park preserves and interprets the stories of the many factories and workers who made Lowell a thriving city during the industrial revolution.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a canal boat tour to learn about the waterways that powered much of Lowell's industry during the 1800s.
Conclusion
The road trip from Brookline to Manchester offers plenty of opportunities to explore museums, parks, and landmarks along the way. With a visit to the Currier Museum of Art, Canobie Lake Park, Robert Frost Farm, America’s Stonehenge, and the Lowell National Historical Park, there's something for everyone. Depending on how much time you have, you can easily make this a day trip or take your time and spend a weekend exploring.