Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Canton, MA to Ashland, MA

Are you looking for a road trip that's not too far from home, but still offers some new adventures? Look no further than a drive from Canton, MA to Ashland, MA! This drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic, and is just under 20 miles long. Along the way, there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy some unique experiences that you might not have thought of. Here are five unexpected places to check out on your drive from Canton, MA to Ashland, MA!

Halfway Point: Newton, MA

Before we dive into the other five places, we can't forget about the halfway point: Newton, MA! Newton is a city just outside of Boston, and is often referred to as the "Garden City" because of its expansive park system. If you're looking to take a break from driving, why not stretch your legs at one of Newton's many parks? Newton Commonwealth Golf Course is a fantastic option for those who love to golf, and its beautiful views make it worth a stop even if you're not a big golfer. If you're looking for something a little more active, the Auburndale Cove Park offers tennis courts, a playground, and a fantastic view of the Charles River.

1. Pequitside Farm, Canton, MA

Pequitside Farm is a historic farm in Canton that's been around since the 1700s. Today, it's a beautiful place to take a walk or have a picnic. Visitors can admire the gorgeous gardens, which feature beautiful flowers and a variety of trees, or check out the resident chickens who live on the farm. There are plenty of tables and benches for picnics, and you might even catch a glimpse of a wedding party taking photos in the picturesque surroundings. Don't miss out on the homemade ice cream stand, which is a local favorite.

Favorite food: Homemade ice cream.

2. Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, Sharon, MA

Just a short detour off of the main route will bring you to Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary in Sharon, MA. This beautiful spot is part of the Massachusetts Audubon Society, and offers over 25 miles of hiking trails through gorgeous woods and serene fields. Visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, like deer and woodpeckers, and often come across beautiful wildflowers along the way. There's also an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the sanctuary. This is a great spot to get some fresh air and stretch your legs after being cooped up in the car!

Favorite food: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it on one of the beautiful trails.

3. Westgate Mall, Brockton, MA

If you're in the mood for some shopping, the Westgate Mall in Brockton, MA is the perfect place to stop. With over 800,000 square feet of retail space, there's something here for everyone. Whether you're looking for a new outfit, some home decor, or even just a quick snack, you'll find it here. There are also plenty of dining options, like casual favorites like Five Guys, or sit-down restaurants like Bertucci's.

Favorite food: Grab a slice of pizza at Sbarro or try one of the delicious sandwiches at Tony's Clam Shop.

4. Honey Pot Hill Orchards, Stow, MA

Honey Pot Hill Orchards is a family-owned orchard in Stow, MA that's been around since 1923. Visitors can pick their own apples, raspberries, blueberries, and more depending on the season. There's also a farm stand that offers fresh produce, homemade cider donuts, and even some local honey. Kids will love the playground area and the friendly animals at the petting zoo. This is a great way to get a taste of New England's agricultural heritage and pick up some fresh produce for the ride home.

Favorite food: You can't leave without trying the famous cider donuts!

5. Gardiners' Creamery, Ashland, MA

Our last stop on this drive is Gardiners' Creamery in Ashland, MA. This family-owned creamery has been making high-quality ice cream since 1986, and it's easy to see why it's a local favorite. With over 50 flavors to choose from, there's something here for everyone - from classics like vanilla and chocolate to more unique flavors like banana cream pie and bumbleberry. The portions are generous, so make sure you come hungry!

Favorite food: It's hard to choose just one flavor, but the mint chocolate chip is a classic.

Conclusion

This drive from Canton, MA to Ashland, MA might not be very long, but it's full of unexpected surprises. From historic farms to beautiful wildlife sanctuaries to family-owned creameries, there's something for everyone on this route. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this drive is the perfect way to spend an afternoon getting to know some of the unique places that this area has to offer. Take a ride, relax, and enjoy the beautiful Massachusetts scenery!