The Best Road Trip from Burlington, Massachusetts to New Hartford, Connecticut
Buckle up and get ready for an adventurous road trip from Burlington, Massachusetts to New Hartford, Connecticut. The journey is approximately 150 miles long and will take approximately two and a half hours to complete. Halfway through the journey, travelers will come across Sturbridge, MA, a perfect place to stop and refuel. The trip between the two states takes travelers through scenic roads, historic landmarks, and culinary delights. Here are the top five places to visit on this exciting road trip.
1. The Mark Twain House & Museum
The Mark Twain House & Museum located in Hartford, CT is a must-visit destination for literature lovers. The house is a classic example of Victorian Gothic architecture and was the residence of Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. The museum features original furnishings, rare artifacts, and interactive exhibits dedicated to the legendary author. Travelers can explore the picturesque gardens and soak up the ambiance of the surroundings. Fun fact: During his lifetime, Twain wrote 28 books and countless short stories.
2. Six Flags New England
For those thrill-seeking adventurers, Six Flags New England in Agawam, MA, is an excellent choice. The amusement park boasts an array of roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can witness live shows, parades, and carnival games. Six Flags New England is a fantastic place to spend a day with family or friends. Fun fact: The amusement park originally opened as Riverside Park in 1870 and has been a popular attraction ever since.
3. Old Sturbridge Village
Experience the past at Old Sturbridge Village located in Sturbridge, MA. This living museum is an accurate representation of what life was like in rural New England during the 1830s. Travelers get to witness the daily life of early American citizens, including demonstrations on farming, cooking, and other crafts. Visitors can interact with costumed interpreters and explore the historical buildings and landscapes. Fun fact: The village covers over 200 acres of land and features more than 40 historic structures.
4. Lake Compounce
Lake Compounce, located in Bristol, CT, is the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the United States. The park stands on a massive 332-acre property that features a lake, a water park, and a theme park. Visitors can enjoy carnival-style games; indulge in delectable treats and ride thrilling attractions like the Boulder Dash, rated the world's #1 wooden roller coaster. The park also caters to younger patrons with kid-friendly rides and attractions. Fun fact: The park initially opened in 1846 and has been a favorite destination for over 175 years.
5. Mystic Seaport Museum
Immerse yourself in New England's maritime history at the Mystic Seaport Museum located in Mystic, CT. The museum features four National Historic Landmark vessels, a village modeled after a 19th-century seafaring community, and a working preservation shipyard. Travelers can participate in hands-on exhibits, watch maritime demonstrations, and indulge in seafood dishes, a representative of the region's cuisine. Fun fact: The museum features the last remaining wooden whaling ship in the world, the Charles W. Morgan.
This road trip is an excellent way to create unforgettable memories with family or friends. The journey takes visitors through the heart of New England, providing them with an opportunity to experience the region's iconic attractions and rich history. The trip takes approximately two and a half hours to complete, starting from Burlington, Massachusetts to New Hartford, Connecticut, and traversing Sturbridge, MA midway through the journey.