Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buffalo, NY to Barnstable, MA
Driving from Buffalo, NY to Barnstable, MA may not be the most common route, but it is certainly worth the trip. The trip will take you through the heart of New York State, across the Hudson River, through Connecticut, and finally, into the beautiful seaside town of Barnstable. In total, the trip is approximately 500 miles and can take anywhere from 8-10 hours depending on how many stops you make along the way.
The Halfway Point: Amsterdam, NY
Before getting into the five unexpected places to stop on this journey, let's start with the halfway point: Amsterdam, NY. This small town may not be on the top of everyone's travel list, but it has plenty to offer. One must-see spot is the Walter E. Thane Historic District. It is a beautiful neighborhood filled with historic 19th-century homes. Another spot worth visiting is the Guy Park Manor, an 18th-century mansion that now serves as a local history museum.
1. Sharon Springs, NY
Sharon Springs, located about 45 minutes east of Amsterdam on Highway 20, is a charming village that dates back to the 18th century. One of the town's biggest attractions is the Beekman 1802 Mercantile. The Mercantile is a unique shop that offers a variety of artisanal products, including goat milk soap, handmade pottery, and gourmet food items. After browsing the Mercantile, be sure to visit the American Hotel. The hotel is over 160 years old and has been beautifully restored. They serve a variety of delicious farm-to-table cuisine made with local ingredients.
Favorite Food: Mushroom Tartine at the American Hotel
2. Hartford, CT
One of the larger cities on the route, Hartford, CT has something for everyone. The Mark Twain House and Museum is a must-visit spot for literature lovers, and the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art has an impressive collection of artwork from around the world. For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, Bushnell Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of the city.
Favorite Food: Connecticut-style Lobster Roll at the Raw Bar
3. Newport, RI
Newport, RI is a picturesque seaside town that has been a popular vacation spot for centuries. One of the town's biggest attractions is the Newport Mansions, a series of historic homes that are now open to the public for tours. The Cliff Walk is a scenic path that winds along the coastline and offers beautiful views of the ocean and the mansions. For those who love the beach, Easton's Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
Favorite Food: Clam Chowder at the Black Pearl
4. New Bedford, MA
New Bedford, MA is a historic whaling town that was once the wealthiest city in the world thanks to the whaling industry. One must-visit spot is the New Bedford Whaling Museum, which has an extensive collection of whaling artifacts and exhibits. The Whaling City Diner is a local favorite for classic diner fare, and the Destination Soups is a great spot for soups, salads, and sandwiches made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Favorite Food: Lobster Roll at the Whaling City Diner
5. Plymouth, MA
Plymouth, MA is best known for being the site of the first Thanksgiving, but there is so much more to this historic town. The Plimoth Plantation is a living history museum that offers a glimpse into what life was like for the Pilgrims who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620. Plymouth Rock is another must-see spot for history buffs. For those who love the outdoors, the Myles Standish State Forest is a beautiful spot for hiking, fishing, and camping.
Favorite Food: Lobster Benedict at the Blue-Eyed Crab
Conclusion
If you're looking for an unexpected road trip, driving from Buffalo, NY to Barnstable, MA is definitely worth considering. Along the way, you'll experience beautiful scenery, charming small towns, and plenty of delicious food. From the Beekman 1802 Mercantile in Sharon Springs to the Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, there is something for everyone on this trip. So pack your bags, fill up the gas tank, and hit the road!