Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Charlton, Massachusetts and Bedford, New Hampshire

Charlton, Massachusetts and Bedford, New Hampshire are two small towns in the New England region of the United States. While they may not be the most popular tourist destinations, they are an excellent starting point for a road trip through the scenic landscapes of Massachusetts and New Hampshire. This article is a guide for anyone who wants to explore the beauty of the countryside between these two towns. The trip covers roughly 130 miles and takes around two and a half hours by car. The halfway point of the trip is Littleton, Massachusetts, which is a picturesque town that offers a peaceful break in the journey.

Top 5 things to do

1. Visit the Nashoba Valley Winery

The Nashoba Valley Winery is a beautiful winery located in Bolton, Massachusetts. It is one of the top destinations for wine lovers in the state. The winery offers wine tastings, tours, and events. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful vineyards while sipping on a glass of the winery's signature wine. The winery also has a restaurant that serves delicious Italian cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Interesting fact: Nashoba Valley Winery is the first winery in Massachusetts to produce wine from the noble European grape varieties.

2. Explore the Concord Museum

The Concord Museum is located in the heart of Concord, Massachusetts, and is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the town's rich history. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of early American life. One of the most famous exhibits is the original lantern that Paul Revere used on his famous midnight ride. Visitors can also enjoy art exhibits, interactive displays, and take guided tours of the museum.

Interesting fact: The Concord Museum houses one of the most extensive collections of Thoreau-related artifacts in the world.

3. Hike the Mt. Major Trail

The Mt. Major Trail is an excellent day hike for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of New Hampshire. The trail is located in Alton Bay, New Hampshire, and offers stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the Belknap Range. The hike is moderate and suitable for all ages and skill levels. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery, have picnics on the mountain top, and take photographs of the lush greenery.

Interesting fact: Mt. Major is named after John Major, a settler who was killed in a fishing dispute in 1722.

4. Take a Scenic Drive on the Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway, also known as the Kanc, is a famous scenic drive located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The highway stretches for 34.5 miles and offers breathtaking views of the colorful fall foliage, rivers, and mountains. Visitors can stop at several scenic spots along the way, including the Sabbaday Falls, Rocky Gorge, and the Albany Covered Bridge.

Interesting fact: The Kancamagus Highway was named after Kancamagus, a Native American leader of the Penacook tribe.

5. Attend a Concert at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion

The Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, formerly known as the Meadowbrook Music Festival, is an outdoor concert venue located in Gilford, New Hampshire. The pavilion hosts concerts throughout the summer and has hosted some of the biggest acts in music, including Dave Matthews Band, Phish, and Aerosmith. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful lakeside setting while listening to live music under the stars.

Interesting fact: The Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion is owned by the Meadowbrook Charitable Foundation, and all proceeds from concerts are donated to local charities.

Conclusion

The road trip from Charlton, Massachusetts to Bedford, New Hampshire is a perfect opportunity to explore the beauty of New England's countryside. With its rolling hills, scenic vistas, and charming towns, this route provides a glimpse of American life. The five things listed in this article are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things to do in this region. However, they are all must-visit locations if you want to make the most of your road trip. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and set off on an adventure to remember!