Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charlton, MA to Natick, MA

Charlton, MA, and Natick, MA, are two lovely towns in Massachusetts that are worth exploring. If you're driving from Charlton to Natick, there are several unexpected places to visit along the way. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or culture, there is something for everyone. This road trip covers around 30 miles and should take approximately 45 minutes to complete without stops. However, with our list of five unexpected places to stop, you might want to take your time and spend a full day exploring.

Halfway Point: Sutton, MA

Before we get started, we need to mention the halfway point between Charlton and Natick: Sutton, MA. Sutton is a small town that was originally settled in 1716. Today, Sutton is known for its charming town center and picturesque countryside. If you're driving through Sutton, take a moment to explore the town center and visit the Sutton Country Store. This historic store has been in operation since 1876 and is a great place to stop for a snack or souvenir.

1. Cormier Woods

Cormier Woods is a beautiful nature preserve that covers over 100 acres of land. The woods feature several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the landscape. Cormier Woods is also home to several species of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds. If you're looking for a peaceful and scenic place to take a break from driving, Cormier Woods is the perfect stop.

Favorite food to eat: Pack a picnic and enjoy it on one of the scenic overlooks.

2. The Museum of Russian Icons

The Museum of Russian Icons is a unique museum that contains over 1,000 Russian icons and artifacts. The museum features icons from the 15th century to the present day and tells the story of Russian religious art through the ages. The Museum of Russian Icons is a must-visit for anyone interested in art, history, or culture.

Favorite food to eat: Grab lunch at the Nashoba Bakery Café, located right across the street from the museum.

3. Tower Hill Botanic Garden

Tower Hill Botanic Garden is a stunning 171-acre garden that features over 17 distinct gardens, a conservatory, and several miles of walking trails. The garden is known for its beautiful flowers, sculptures, and water features. Tower Hill Botanic Garden is a relaxing and peaceful place to stop and take in the beauty of nature.

Favorite food to eat: Enjoy a cup of tea and a scone at the Twig Café, located in the conservatory.

4. Shattuck's Pasty

If you're looking for a unique culinary experience, stop by Shattuck's Pasty in Fitchburg. The restaurant specializes in Cornish pasties, which are savory pastry pockets filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables. Shattuck's Pasty has several variations of this classic dish, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Favorite food to eat: Try the classic beef and pork pasty, which is a customer favorite.

5. Garden in the Woods

Garden in the Woods is a 45-acre garden that is home to over 1,500 species of native plants. The garden features several walking trails, a pond, and an educational center. Garden in the Woods is a fantastic place to learn about the native plants of New England and the importance of conservation.

Favorite food to eat: Pack a picnic and enjoy it in the garden's picnic area.

Conclusion

A road trip from Charlton to Natick is a great way to explore the beautiful towns of Massachusetts. With these five unexpected places to stop along the way, you can turn a quick trip into a full day of adventure. From nature preserves to art museums and unique culinary experiences, there is something for everyone. Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the unexpected gems of Massachusetts.