Road Trip from Cambridge to Canton, MA
Looking for a great way to spend a day in Massachusetts? Why not take a road trip from Cambridge to Canton and explore some of the area's best museums, parks, and landmarks?
Did you know that Canton is home to the oldest continuously operating shoe factory in the United States? The factory, now owned by the Reebok Corporation, has been making shoes since 1895.
If you're looking for a halfway point to stretch your legs, Milton, MA is a great option. The Blue Hills Reservation is located here and offers miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of Boston.
The trip from Cambridge to Canton is only about 20 miles and can easily be done in a half-day. However, if you have the time, there are plenty of great places to stop along the way and make it a full day adventure.
1. Harvard Museum of Natural History
First on our list is the Harvard Museum of Natural History in Cambridge. Here you can see exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to gemstones to mammals of North America. One of the museum's most popular attractions is the Glass Flowers exhibit, which features over 4,000 stunningly realistic glass models of plants.
Point of Interest recommendation: If you're a fan of classic literature, check out the museum's temporary exhibit on "Moby-Dick: Then and Now." It features artwork, artifacts, and modern interpretations of the famous novel.
2. Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University
Next up is the Arnold Arboretum, also located in Cambridge. This public park and research institution covers over 281 acres and boasts over 15,000 specimens of trees, shrubs, and vines from around the world.
Point of Interest recommendation: Make sure to check out the Bonsai and Penjing collection, which features over 30 miniature trees that have been trained to imitate their full-size counterparts.
3. Blue Hills Reservation
As mentioned earlier, the Blue Hills Reservation in Milton is a great place to stop and take a break. With over 7,000 acres of protected forest, meadow, and marsh, there is no shortage of natural beauty to enjoy.
Point of Interest recommendation: The Blue Hills Observatory and Science Center is also located here and offers visitors the chance to learn about meteorology and weather forecasting.
4. Eustis Estate Museum and Study Center
The Eustis Estate Museum and Study Center in Milton is a great place to get a glimpse into the life of a wealthy family in the late 19th century. The estate was originally built in 1878 and has been beautifully restored.
Point of Interest recommendation: Don't miss the exhibit on "The Letters of Edith Wharton." The museum has a collection of her letters that offer insights into her life and the inspiration for her writing.
5. Blue Hills Brewery
Last but not least, after a day of exploring it's time to relax with a cold one at the Blue Hills Brewery in Canton. Located in an old warehouse, this brewery offers tastings, tours, and a great selection of locally brewed beers.
Point of Interest recommendation: Make sure to try their award-winning India Pale Ale, the "Canton Crusher."
Overall, this road trip is a perfect way to explore some of the most interesting museums, parks, and landmarks near Cambridge and Canton. The trip should take you about half a day, depending on how much time you spend at each stop. Happy exploring!