Road Trip from Chatham, MA to Ashland, MA: Exploring Museums, Parks, and Landmarks
Are you looking for a fun road trip in Massachusetts? A drive from Chatham to Ashland offers the opportunity to explore museums, parks, and landmarks along the way. Here's a list of the top attractions to visit on this 2.5-hour drive.
Did you know that Chatham is the site of the Chatham Lighthouse, which was built in 1808 and towers 80 feet above the water? This historic landmark is a must-see for anyone interested in maritime history. Once you've visited the lighthouse, it's time to start your road trip north.
About halfway through your drive, you'll come across the town of Middleborough, MA. This charming town dates back to the 1600s and is home to the Robbins Museum of Archaeology, which showcases artifacts from New England's Indigenous people.
The drive from Chatham to Ashland covers approximately 115 miles and takes around 2.5 hours. The route takes you through scenic towns and picturesque countryside, making it a scenic and enjoyable journey.
Here are the top five places to visit on this road trip:
1. Heritage Museums and Gardens
Located in Sandwich, MA, Heritage Museums and Gardens is the perfect place to start your road trip. This 100-acre site features beautiful gardens, several galleries of art and artifacts, as well as a vintage carousel and working carousel workshop. The gardens alone are worth the visit. You can stroll through acres of blooming flowers, trees, and shrubs, and marvel at the many sculptures and water features that adorn the landscape. Don't forget to stop by the J.K. Lilly III Antique Automobile Collection, which showcases over 30 rare and vintage vehicles.
Point of Interest: The maze garden is an interactive experience that will challenge your sense of direction and navigation. Kids will love exploring the maze, which is made up of more than 1,500 hedges.
2. Plimoth Plantation
Located in Plymouth, MA, Plimoth Plantation is a living history museum that recreates life in the 17th century. You can explore the Wampanoag Homesite, where you'll learn about the Indigenous people who lived in the region long before European settlers arrived. You can also wander through the Pilgrim Village, which is home to costumed actors who bring the early colonial period to life. Don't forget to check out the Mayflower II, a full-scale replica of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to New England in 1620.
Point of Interest: The Wampanoag Homesite offers visitors a chance to learn about Native American traditions and crafts. You can watch demonstrations of pottery, weaving, and cooking, and interact with artisans who will answer your questions.
3. Battleship Cove
Located in Fall River, MA, Battleship Cove is the largest naval ship museum in the world. You can explore several decommissioned Navy ships, including the battleship USS Massachusetts and the submarine USS Lionfish. You'll get a sense of what life was like for sailors serving aboard these vessels, with exhibits showcasing living quarters, the mess hall, and even a medical bay. Don't forget to check out the Pearl Harbor Experience, which features a multimedia exhibit that will transport you back to December 7, 1941.
Point of Interest: The USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. is a destroyer that served in both World War II and the Korean War. You can explore the ship's deck and see its impressive armaments up close.
4. Walden Pond State Reservation
Located in Concord, MA, Walden Pond is a 102-foot-deep kettle hole pond that was made famous by the writer Henry David Thoreau. It's also a state park where visitors can swim, hike, and explore the picturesque woods that surround the pond. There's a replica of Thoreau's cabin on the site, which offers a glimpse into the writer's minimalist lifestyle.
Point of Interest: Check out the plaque that marks the spot where Thoreau's cabin stood. You can also follow the Thoreau Trail, a 1.7-mile loop that takes you around the pond and through the woods.
5. Garden in the Woods
Located in Framingham, MA, Garden in the Woods is a 45-acre botanical garden that's home to more than 1,500 species of native New England plants. You can stroll through the gardens and marvel at the many colors and textures of the flora on display. There are several specialized gardens to explore, including a wetland garden, rock garden, and woodland garden. Don't forget to stop by the Nature Play Area, where kids can climb, dig, and explore a natural play environment.
Point of Interest: The Garden is run by the Native Plant Trust, which is dedicated to preserving and protecting the region's native flora. You can learn about the Trust's mission and initiatives, and even get involved in conservation efforts.
Conclusion
A road trip from Chatham to Ashland is a great way to explore Massachusetts and learn about the region's rich history and culture. With stops at Heritage Museums and Gardens, Plimoth Plantation, Battleship Cove, Walden Pond, and Garden in the Woods, you'll have plenty of opportunities to admire natural beauty and appreciate the state's heritage. With just a 2.5-hour drive and all these incredible stops along the way, this road trip is a must-do for anyone looking to explore the area!