#Road Trip Guide: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks from Charlton to Holden, Massachusetts
As fall slowly takes over the New England region, it's the perfect time to embark on a road trip from Charlton, Massachusetts, to Holden Massachusetts, in search of the best museums, parks, and landmarks.
Did you know that Charlton was incorporated in 1755 and was named after Sir Francis Charlton, a royal governor's secretary? The town is rich in history, so it only makes sense to explore the surrounding areas for more interesting facts.
Once you hit the halfway point of Leicester, MA, you'll be able to enjoy the small New England feel of the town while taking in the beautiful fall foliage.
This road trip is not long by any means, and it's perfect for anyone looking to explore the region without embarking on a full day's journey. The 15-mile trip can be completed in under an hour, but we encourage extending your stay to take in each location's offerings.
Here are the top five places to visit on this road trip:
- Old Sturbridge Village The first stop is Old Sturbridge Village, a living museum dedicated to showcasing life in New England between 1790 and 1840. Visitors can expect to encounter costumed historians, explore more than 40 historic buildings, and even participate in hands-on activities like hearth cooking - all while immersing themselves in the region's history.
Point of Interest: The Museum Gift Shop is perfect for finding one-of-a-kind crafts made by regional artisans.
- The Worcester Art Museum Next, you'll find yourself at the Worcester Art Museum, which boasts an extensive collection of both ancient and modern art. It's home to over 38,000 works, including works by Rembrandt, Paul Revere, and famous American painters like Winslow Homer.
Point of Interest: The Museum Café serves fresh salads, sandwiches, soups, and pastries sourced from local vendors.
- The Tower Hill Botanic Garden The third stop is the Tower Hill Botanic Garden, a 171-acre garden situated in the heart of Central Massachusetts. The gardens boast an incredible collection of over 350,000 plants, including a mile-long system of paths and trails that will lead you on a tour of the stunning surroundings.
Point of Interest: Take the time to explore the Systematic Garden - it's laid out in a grid system, with over 400 varieties of plants that are grouped according to their family, giving visitors an opportunity to learn more about plant classification.
- The Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans' Memorial The fourth stop is not for the faint of heart, but it's nonetheless an essential visit for anyone interested in paying tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for our country. The Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans' Memorial offers a stunning tribute to the state's residents who perished in the Vietnam War.
Point of Interest: Take a moment to visit the observation deck and take in the stunning backdrop of Worcester's skyline.
- Wachusett Mountain State Reservation The final stop on your road trip is Wachusett Mountain State Reservation, situated in-between Princeton and Westminster. The park is well-known for its fall foliage and stunning hiking trails and scenic drives. Visitors can take the scenic Summit Road or Gondola ride to take in the panoramic views.
Point of Interest: The historic Wachusett Mountain Ski Area is open year-round and offers visitors a chance to hit the slopes or explore the hiking trails.
In conclusion, this road trip from Charlton to Holden is not only full of beautiful scenery and historical sites, but it also offers an exciting way to experience the beauty of Massachusetts and its surroundings. The trip may be short, but we highly recommend taking your time to enjoy each site fully. It's sure to be worth it.