Points of Interest between Cambridge, Massachusetts to Ashland, Massachusetts

picture of Cambridge, Massachusetts

Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cambridge, MA to Ashland, MA

By: Anonymized due to privacy concerns

Cambridge, Massachusetts is a bustling city located in the Greater Boston area, known for its prestigious universities, cultural landmarks and diverse population. Ashland, Massachusetts is a smaller town located about 20 miles west of Boston, known for its scenic reservoirs and state parks.

A road trip from Cambridge to Ashland can be a perfect way to spend a day exploring some of the most beautiful sites in the Boston area. And the good news is that there are plenty of things to do along the way! The trip is approximately 25 miles long, and the halfway point is in Needham, Massachusetts.

Best things to do on this road trip:

1. Visit the Arnold Arboretum at Harvard University

The Arnold Arboretum is a beautiful botanical garden located on the grounds of Harvard University. This is an excellent place to stop and take a walk in the fresh air, admire the lovely flowers and plants, and learn about the science behind their growth. The garden was established in 1872 and currently features over 15,000 plant species from all over the world.

2. Explore the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum

This park is a great place to visit if you want to combine your love of art and nature. The deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum is located in Lincoln, Massachusetts, just a few miles from the center of Cambridge. The park features over 60 sculptures, some of which are interactive and designed to be touched and played with. There are also indoor galleries, where you can see exhibits that feature contemporary art.

3. Visit the Needham Town Forest

The Needham Town Forest is a beautiful natural reserve located in Needham, Massachusetts, which is also the halfway point of the road trip. This forest is great for hiking and camping, and there are several trails to choose from. The views of the lake are spectacular, and the area is teeming with wildlife.

4. Take a stroll through the Natick Center Cultural District

Natick Center is a thriving cultural district located in Natick, Massachusetts, which is about halfway between Cambridge and Ashland. The area is filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, making it an ideal place to stop for a meal or some shopping. The district is also home to several cultural institutions, such as the Center for Arts in Natick and the Morse Institute Library.

5. Discover the Ashland State Park

The final stop on this road trip is the Ashland State Park. The park is located in Ashland, Massachusetts, and it's a great place to stop and relax after a long day of driving. The park features a beautiful pond, a beach, and several picnic areas. There are also several trails to choose from if you're in the mood for a hike.

Interesting Facts

  • The Arnold Arboretum was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who was also responsible for designing Central Park in New York City.
  • The deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum is the largest park of its kind in New England.
  • The Needham Town Forest is home to several species of amphibians, including spotted salamanders and eastern red-backed salamanders.
  • Natick Center is located on the historic Boston Post Road, which was one of the most important roads in colonial America.
  • The Ashland State Park was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a fun road trip from Cambridge, Massachusetts to Ashland, Massachusetts, then this is the perfect route for you. With so many amazing sights to see and places to explore, you're sure to have a great time on this adventure. Plus, it only takes about an hour to drive the entire route, so you'll have plenty of time to see everything you want to see. Happy driving!