The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chelmsford, Massachusetts and Westminster, Massachusetts
Chelmsford and Westminster, both situated in the northern part of Massachusetts, offer plenty of interesting attractions to see and experience. This road trip covers a distance of around 70 miles or more, depending on the route taken. The route covers picturesque towns and beautiful landscape making it an ideal trip for anyone who enjoys everything that New England has to offer. The halfway point of the trip is Harvard, MA. Here are some of the top attractions that are a must-see while on this road trip.
The Top 5 Things to Do
Visit Fitchburg Art Museum
The Fitchburg Art Museum, established in 1925, is the main art institution in north-central Massachusetts. It is home to a collection of over 4,000 objects of art spanning over 5,000 years of world culture. Art lovers will marvel at the extensive range of exhibits and programs on display. The museum houses paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs, and decorative arts.
Interesting Fact:
The Fitchburg Art Museum was one of only four museums in the country where Vincent van Gogh's paintings were displayed.
Check out the Ashburnham Historical Society
If you are interested in exploring the rich history of Ashburnham and the surrounding area, then the Ashburnham Historical Society is a must-visit. The society operates a museum, which contains different exhibits showcasing the history of the town from 1735 to the present. Here, you will be able to learn about the life and times of the early-American settlers who lived in the area.
Interesting Fact:
The Ashburnham Historical Society's Museum collections include over 5,000 local artifacts, including early portraits and photographs, textiles, and ceramics.
Walk Along the Mass Central Rail Trail
The Mass Central Rail Trail is a 104-mile path that stretches from Waltham, Massachusetts to Northampton, Massachusetts. The trail, which is perfect for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers, winds its way through some of the most beautiful landscapes in New England. The trail passes through Westminster, so it's the ideal location to disembark and enjoy the surroundings.
Interesting Fact:
The Mass Central Rail Trail was once the Central Massachusetts Railroad, which was established in the mid-1800s.
Go to Fort Devens Museum
The Fort Devens Museum, located in Ayer, Massachusetts, showcases the history of Fort Devens from inception until today. Exhibits represent the history that spans from World War I through Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The museum also possesses other military artifacts, maps, posters, and photographs, making it an excellent place to learn about America's military history.
Interesting Fact:
Fort Devens, the base where the museum is located, was opened in 1917 as a permanent camp. It was named after the first American overseas casualty in World War I, Brigadier General Charles Devens.
Explore the Johnny Appleseed Trail
The Johnny Appleseed Trail connects 17 communities from Leominster, MA to Sterling, MA, and is named after the legendary American folk hero John Chapman, who would bequeath apple saplings to settlers as he moved around the country. The route covers picturesque scenery comprising farmland, rolling green hills, farms, and small towns.
Interesting Fact:
John Chapman is frequently attributed to the nom de guerre of Johnny Appleseed. He planted over 100,000 square miles of apple orchards across seven states.
Conclusion
Overall, this road trip is perfect for anyone who enjoys exploring new places, landscapes, and attractions in the northern part of Massachusetts. With a range of interesting attractions along the route, including art exhibitions, historical societies, rail trails, and other museums, exploring this part of Massachusetts is sure to hold something for everyone. The trip should take about 2 hours, providing plenty of opportunities to make stops along the way to fill the day with fun and adventure.