The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chelmsford, Massachusetts and Belchertown, Massachusetts

The beautiful state of Massachusetts offers incredible opportunities for people to explore new places and experience memorable moments. If you're planning a road trip from Chelmsford, Massachusetts to Belchertown, Massachusetts, you are in for a treat. This scenic drive will take you through some of the most beautiful places in the state, including historic sites, breathtaking landscapes, and family-friendly attractions.

At the halfway mark, make sure to stop in Gardner, MA to experience the iconic Gardner Ale House and their impressive selection of craft beer and delicious food. But this is just the beginning. With so many wonderful options to choose from, we've narrowed down the top five things you should consider adding to your itinerary.

1. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art

If you're traveling with kids, The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA is a must-visit destination. Founded by the acclaimed children's book author and illustrator Eric Carle, the museum is an amazing tribute to his work and the world of children's books. The collections contain more than 10,000 illustrations, permanent galleries, a performance space, and temporary exhibitions.

Interesting Fact: Eric Carle created The Very Hungry Caterpillar in 1969 and has since sold more than 44 million copies worldwide.

2. Yankee Candle Village

About an hour's drive from Belchertown in South Deerfield, MA, Yankee Candle Village is a unique and exciting destination to add to your trip. The village has a lot of activities for visitors of all ages. Explore the Candle Emporium and grab a new scent, enjoy the country kitchen restaurant, check out the toy shop, and experience Santa’s Workshop all year round. Yankee Candle Village is a perfect place to spend some quality family time.

Interesting Fact: Yankee Candle Village has over 200,000 candles available in nearly 200 different scents.

3. Gillette Castle State Park

Referred to as a marvel of the early 20th century, Gillette Castle was built on 184 acres of land by William Gillette between 1914 and 1919, overlooking the Connecticut River Valley. The castle has a vast collection of medieval furnishings and decor, and the park offers visitors a pit stop at the picnic area and walking tours of the castle and grounds. Gillette Castle State Park is an exciting location to discover the history of the area and experience an authentic medieval castle.

Interesting Fact: The castle features a 3-mile-long railroad that Gillette used to transport his guests to the site.

4. The Bridge of Flowers

The Bridge of Flowers is a beautiful and intriguing destination located just outside of Belchertown in Shelburne Falls, MA. The bridge is a gorgeous garden suspended over the Deerfield River and houses a diverse range of flowers and plants, giving visitors a vibrant blooming experience. Seasonally, you can see magnolias, peonies, roses, and more. Whether you are a nature lover or not, you will be delighted by this colorful garden.

Interesting Fact: The bridge was built in 1908 as a trolley track bridge and transformed into a garden in 1929.

5. Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village is a living, outdoor museum that offers visitors a chance to experience life in rural New England during the 19th century. Located an hour's drive from Chelmsford, it stands on a 200-acre site that authentically reproduces a New England village from the early 1800s, featuring a collection of more than 40 historic buildings, including a powerful working gristmill and weaver shops, and various small animal encounters.

Interesting Fact: Actors at Old Sturbridge Village didn't use modern-day appliances or electricity, so visitors gain a true appreciation of farm life in the early 1800s.

Conclusion

It took about two hours to travel from Chelmsford, Massachusetts to Belchertown, Massachusetts, but this scenic trip is jam-packed with incredible sights and attractions that will make it feel like time has flown by. While on the road, be sure to stop at some of these quintessential locations. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Yankee Candle Village in South Deerfield, Gillette Castle State Park, The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, and Old Sturbridge Village are must-see destinations that will make this road trip one that will live long in your memory.