Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chelmsford, MA to North Andover, MA

Chelmsford, Massachusetts, and North Andover, Massachusetts are two beautiful towns in New England, each with its charm and attractions. A road trip between the two towns offers a unique opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage of Massachusetts. The trip covers around 39 miles and takes around one hour to complete.

The halfway point on this trip is Andover, MA, a charming town that was settled in 1642 and played a vital role in the American Revolutionary War. Andover boasts several historic landmarks and nature sites, making it a perfect stop for travelers.

The Top 5 Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chelmsford to North Andover

1. Visit Lowell National Historical Park

Lowell National Historical Park is a must-visit destination on a road trip from Chelmsford to North Andover. The park highlights the history and importance of the Industrial Revolution and its impact on the United States. Visitors can explore the museum, walk along the Merrimack Canal, and witness demonstrations of cloth-making, metal-working, and other trades from centuries past.

Interesting Fact: Lowell National Historical Park was the first urban national park established in the United States.

2. Hike the Stevens-Coolidge Place Garden Path

The Stevens-Coolidge Place is a lovely estate in North Andover that features several gardens intricately landscaped with formal plantings, fountains, and ornamentation. Its Garden Path is a delightful walk that takes visitors through sunken gardens, daisy fields, and various sculpture gardens. The garden is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a romantic picnic.

Interesting Fact: The estate was once home to Helen Stevens, a noted horticulturist and suffragist.

3. National Plastics Museum

The National Plastics Museum in Leominster is an ideal destination for true fans of science, innovation, and industrial history. The museum tells the story of the plastic industry over the last century, featuring unique and significant inventions such as the first synthetic polymer and the first-ever plastic ski. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, tours, and films about plastics processing and its applications in different fields.

Interesting Fact: Plastic has played a prominent role in nearly every aspect of modern life.

4. Salem Witch Museum

The Salem Witch Museum is an incredible place to learn about the infamous witch trials that occurred in Salem, Massachusetts, in the 17th century. The museum retells the story of the trial with the aid of interactive exhibits, a reenactment of the courtroom trial, and a video presentation. Outside, the museum is decked with life-size wax figures recreating the characters from the Salem Witch Trials.

Interesting Fact: The twelve judges presiding over the Salem Witch Trials convicted nineteen people of witchcraft, leading to their execution by hanging.

5. Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary

The Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary is a 2,000-acre nature reserve in Topsfield, attracting nature enthusiasts from all over the world. The sanctuary offers visitors a chance to walk through the mixed forests and wetlands, observe the diverse wildlife, and have a picnic in the peaceful environment. The sanctuary has an extensive hiking trail network that covers over ten miles and boasts breathtaking views of the Ipswich River.

Interesting Fact: The Ipswich River is considered one of the cleanest rivers in Massachusetts.

The road trip from Chelmsford to North Andover offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history, fantastic nature sites, and popular attractions of Massachusetts. Whether it is exploring a museum, walking through lush gardens, or hiking beautiful trails, this road trip has something to offer for everyone. This trip is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway and takes approximately one hour to reach the destination.