Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buena, New Jersey and Haverhill, Massachusetts
Buena, New Jersey to Haverhill, Massachusetts is a 325-mile drive that can take around five hours, depending on traffic. While the journey can seem monotonous with stretch after stretch of highways, there are several unexpected places to explore along the way that can make the trip more exciting and memorable. This article will take you through five such places that are a must-visit.
Halfway Point: Milford, CT
Before diving into the five unexpected places to explore, it is crucial to mention the halfway point of the journey, Milford, CT. Milford is located midway between New York and Boston, making it an ideal spot to take a break. It is a coastal city that has a rich history, and a short stop can be entertaining and informative. The town has a historic district, beaches, and even a duck pond. Visitors can take a stroll downtown, sip coffee at a local cafe, or go for a swim. Milford also has several restaurants offering local cuisine, which visitors can try during their break.
1. Lancaster, PA
About 160 miles from Buena, and a two and a half-hour drive, Lancaster is a beautiful town to explore, especially for history buffs. With a population of just over 59,000, the town is steeped in Amish culture and history. Lancaster has numerous shops selling hand-made Amish goods, and visitors can take tours, buggy rides or visit farmers' markets. The town is also home to numerous museums, including the National Toy Train Museum and Landis Valley Museum. After exploring the town, visitors can indulge in some delicious Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine at the famous Good 'N Plenty Restaurant.
2. New Paltz, NY
After driving 250 miles from Buena, about four hours into the journey, New Paltz is a scenic town that's worth stopping by. It is at the base of the Shawangunk Mountains and surrounded by parks and nature reserves that offer beautiful scenery and hiking trails. Visitors can also take a stroll downtown and explore the town's art galleries, antique shops, and boutique stores. While in New Paltz, visitors can grab lunch at the Village Tea Room; the restaurant specializes in homemade baked goods and offers vegetarian and gluten-free options.
3. Sturbridge, MA
Just over 45 miles from Haverhill and a 50-minute drive, Sturbridge is a charming town that offers a glimpse of life in colonial America. The town has several living history museums, including Old Sturbridge Village, where visitors can learn about 19th century life in New England. There are also several antique shops and art galleries in town. For a tasty meal, visitors can try the famous clam chowder at The Publick House Historic Inn.
4. Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, MA
Located around 35 miles from Haverhill, and a 40-minute drive, Wrentham Village Premium Outlets is a shopping destination that visitors should check out. The outlets have over 170 stores, including designer brands such as Burberry, Coach and Tory Burch. Visitors can enjoy premium shopping while saving on their favorite brands. They can also refuel with a meal at the Bar Louie, which serves American cuisine and craft cocktails.
5. Salem, MA
Salem, MA, is a historic town located about 25 miles from the final stop, Haverhill. Famous for its associations with the witch trials of 1692, visitors can learn about the town's history by visiting the Salem Witch Museum, the House of Seven Gables, or the Peabody Essex Museum. Visitors can also enjoy a walk down the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall or explore the town's boutique shops, art galleries, and wineries. To indulge in a decadent sweet treat, visitors can drop by Ye Olde Pepper Candy Company, famous for its homemade candy.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey from Buena to Haverhill may seem like miles of highways, but the five unexpected places listed above offer enough excitement and entertainment to make the drive memorable. With every stop, visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine and learn something new about the place they're visiting. So pack your bags and hit the road because the adventure awaits!