Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cheshire, Connecticut and Clinton, Massachusetts

New England offers some of the most scenic routes for a long drive through its verdant landscapes, quaint hamlets, and historical landmarks. A road trip from Cheshire, CT, to Clinton, MA, is the perfect route for a weekend getaway as it covers some of the famous destinations in the region. The 100-mile journey takes around two hours and passes through some beautiful countryside and charming villages. One of the highlights of the tour is the halfway point at Willington, CT, where one can take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee at the local cafe.

Top 5 Things to Do

Lexington Battle Green

The first stop on the route is Lexington, MA, which is home to the famous Battle Green. It is the site where the American Revolution started. The Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775, signaled the start of the war and left eight Americans dead. Today, visitors can take a walk on the historic Battle Green and witness the spot where the first shots were fired. The place is a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in American heritage.

Interesting Fact: The Battle Green is a 6-acre park and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Walden Pond

The second stop is Walden Pond in Concord, MA, famous for the writer Henry David Thoreau's cabin. The pond is a natural beauty and is surrounded by a dense forest that paints a beautiful picture. Visitors can take a dip in the crystal clear waters, hike the trails, and absorb some of the transcendentalist philosophy that Thoreau espoused. The place is ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Interesting Fact: The pond is around 103 feet at its deepest point and is the inspiration for Thoreau's Walden.

Salem Witch Museum

Salem, MA, is the infamous location for the Witch Trials of 1692, and the Salem Witch Museum is a must-visit spot in the town. The museum recounts the events that led to the notorious trials, including the superstitions and beliefs of the people who lived in the area at the time. Visitors can take a guided tour of the exhibits and get a glimpse of the Salem Witchcraft Hysteria that took place over 300 years ago.

Interesting Fact: The museum is located in the former Salem Town Hall and is one of the top tourist attractions in the town.

Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, MA, is a living history museum that showcases life in New England in the 19th century. Visitors can and experience the lifestyle and practices of the villagers in the 1800s. The 200-acre village has over 60 historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and live demonstrations of farming, cooking, and other domestic chores. It is an ideal place for children and families to get a glimpse of life in the early years of the United States.

Interesting Fact: The village's centerpiece is a working water-powered sawmill, which is powered by the Quinebaug River.

Mark Twain House

The final stop of the route is the Mark Twain House in Hartford, CT. Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known by his pen name Mark Twain, is one of America's most celebrated writers. The house was Twain's residence from 1874 to 1891, and the author wrote some of his most famous works during his stay here. The house is now a museum and has an extensive collection of Twain's belongings, including his writing desk, piano, and various manuscripts.

Interesting Fact: The house was designed in the Victorian Gothic Revival style and has 25 rooms in total.

Conclusion

The road trip from Cheshire, CT, to Clinton, MA, is a journey through some of the prominent destinations in New England's history and culture. Spanning just around 100 miles, the tour covers battlefields, museums, and picturesque landscapes. The diversity of the places ensures that travelers have a broad spectrum of experiences that cater to all interests. The trip takes approximately 2 hours and is an ideal excursion for a weekend getaway.