Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Canton, Massachusetts and Mattapoisett, Massachusetts

Traveling is one of the most joyful experiences people can have, and road trips are a great way to explore new places, get away from the daily routine, and create unforgettable memories. Connecting Canton, Massachusetts and Mattapoisett, Massachusetts enables travelers to discover fascinating destinations along the way, ranging from historic sites to picturesque parks and leisure activities. Halfway between Canton and Mattapoisett lies the town of Middleborough, which offers a variety of places to stop and explore, such as parks, breweries, and restaurants.

Whale Watch in Provincetown

Provincetown, located at the tip of Cape Cod, is one of the iconic destinations for whale watching in Massachusetts. The area is home to some of the most diverse marine life in the state, including Humpback and Fin whales, Atlantic dolphins, and harbor seals. The whale watching tours in Provincetown are professionally guided, offering an insightful introduction to the aquatic creatures' behavior, migration patterns, and ecosystems. Visitors have a chance to spot the whales from up close while hearing the naturalists' live commentary about their species, habitat, and conservation.

Interesting fact: Provincetown was one of the first locations settled by the Pilgrims when they arrived in America in 1620.

Relax at Scusset Beach State Reservation

Scusset Beach State Reservation is located near the Cape Cod Canal, offering a beautiful panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is perfect for relaxation, sunbathing, swimming, or taking a long walk on the sandy shore. The surroundings are breathtaking, with dunes, salt marshes, and wildlife. Visitors can take a picnic or use the grilling and cooking facilities available at the site. With a calm and serene atmosphere, Scusset Beach is an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Massachusetts.

Interesting fact: Scusset Beach was a significant trading post between the Wampanoag Native American tribe and early European settlers in the 17th century.

Learn History at Plymouth Plantation

Plymouth Plantation is a living history museum that depicts the lives of the Pilgrims and Native Americans of the 17th century. The museum recreates the original landscape, architecture, and people's daily routines with authentic props, costumes, and interaction. Visitors can see firsthand how the Pilgrims used to cook, farm, and trade, as well as how the Wampanoag tribe hunted, fished, and lived in their villages. The museum also offers educational programs, guided tours, and special events throughout the year.

Interesting fact: The Mayflower II, a replica of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to Plymouth in 1620, is currently under renovation and is set to return to Plymouth Plantation in 2021.

Explore the Battleship Cove

Battleship Cove is a maritime museum that consists of several authentic naval vessels from the World War II era, including the battleship USS Massachusetts, the destroyer USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., and the submarine USS Lionfish. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or a guided tour to learn about the vessels' history, crew, and weapons. The museum also showcases exhibits and artifacts from the war, such as uniforms, medals, and photographs. In addition, Battleship Cove offers a variety of educational programs, events, and cruises.

Interesting fact: The USS Massachusetts is one of only two surviving American battleships from World War II.

Visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum

The New Bedford Whaling Museum is a cultural institution that tells the story of the whaling industry, one of the most significant economic activities in 19th century America. The museum features a vast collection of whaling artifacts, such as harpoons, scrimshaw, and ship models. Visitors can also see the world's largest ship model, the Lagoda, a 1/2 scale model of the whaling ship that sailed from New Bedford in the 19th century. The museum also offers exhibits and programs about whales, marine life, and ocean conservation.

Interesting fact: New Bedford was the center of the American whaling industry in the 19th century and produced more whale oil than any other port in the world.

Conclusion

Road tripping from Canton, Massachusetts to Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, offers travelers a wide range of exciting and beautiful destinations to explore along the way. From whale watching in Provincetown, relaxing at Scusset Beach State Reservation, learning history at Plymouth Plantation, exploring the battleships in Battleship Cove, to visiting the New Bedford Whaling Museum, there is something for everyone. The trip takes approximately two hours without traffic, making it a perfect weekend getaway or day trip.