Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burlington, Vermont to Tewksbury, Massachusetts
If you're looking for an exciting road trip filled with stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and unique experiences, look no further than the drive from Burlington, Vermont, to Tewksbury, Massachusetts. This roughly 200-mile journey takes roughly 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and route. Of course, you could drive it straight through without stopping, but why do that when there are so many fantastic off-the-beaten-path places to explore along the way?
The Halfway Point: Plainfield, NH
Before diving into the five unexpected places to stop along the way, it's worth mentioning the halfway point of this journey: Plainfield, New Hampshire. This quaint town might not seem like a must-visit destination, but it's worth taking a quick break here. Stop by the Plainfield Inn for a refreshing drink and some homemade snacks, or browse through the shops and galleries that line Main Street.
Now, onto the five unexpected places to visit on this drive:
- White River Junction, VT: This charming town is located just a short detour off the main route and is well worth a stop. Take a stroll down Main Street and admire the stunning architecture that dates back to the early 20th century. The Center for Cartoon Studies is a must-visit for comic book enthusiasts, while the Northern Stage theater company offers exceptional productions year-round. Don't leave without grabbing a famous maple creemee from Tuckerbox.
- Lebanon, NH: Lebanon is home to the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, but there's much more to this town than healthcare. Art enthusiasts will love the AVA Gallery and Art Center, while those looking for some outdoor recreation can head to Storrs Hill Ski Area or hit the trails at the APD Urban Forest. For a delicious meal, stop by Lui Lui - their wood-fired pizzas are out of this world.
- Concord, NH: As the capital city of New Hampshire, Concord is certainly not off-the-beaten-path, but it's still worth a stop on this journey. Take a tour of the New Hampshire State House or the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, or stroll through the historic Main Street area and pop into the local shops and cafes. For a tasty lunch, head to The Crust & Crumb Bakery for one of their famous sandwiches.
- Worcester, MA: Worcester might not be as well-known as Boston or Salem, but it's a gem of a city. History buffs will enjoy exploring the Worcester Art Museum or the Worcester Historical Museum, while families will love the interactive exhibitions at the Ecotarium. Don't miss the chance to indulge in some classic New England clam chowder at The Sole Proprietor.
- Lowell, MA: Just a short drive from Tewksbury, Lowell is a fantastic spot to wrap up this journey. Explore the Lowell National Historical Park to learn about the city's textile mill history, or check out the exhibits at the New England Quilt Museum. For a memorable meal, head to the Blue Taleh for some delicious sushi.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a road trip that's both scenic and filled with unique experiences, consider the drive from Burlington, Vermont, to Tewksbury, Massachusetts. From the charming town of White River Junction to the historic city of Worcester, there's something for everyone along the way. So pack up the car and hit the road - you won't be disappointed!