Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicopee, Massachusetts and Hackensack, New Jersey

Chicopee, Massachusetts, and Hackensack, New Jersey, are both bustling cities with much to offer. A road trip between the two provides an opportunity to explore some of the most scenic regions in the United States. The road trip covers a distance of approximately 210 miles and takes around three hours. The halfway point of the road trip is Shelton, Connecticut, a small town that is famous for having the first cast-iron bridge in the world.

Visit the Yankee Candle Village

The Yankee Candle Village is a must-see attraction for anyone driving between Chicopee, Massachusetts, and Hackensack, New Jersey. The candle store is located in South Deerfield, Massachusetts, and features a wide range of scented candles and other items. Visitors can take a factory tour to see how the candles are made, dip their own candles, and enjoy a meal at the candle-themed restaurant.

Interesting Fact: The Yankee Candle Village has more than 400,000 candles in over 200 different scents.

Explore the Mark Twain House

The Mark Twain House in Hartford, Connecticut, is open for tours and provides visitors with a glimpse into the life of America's greatest writers. This 19th-century Victorian Gothic mansion is a National Historic Landmark and located near the Capitol building. The house features interior design elements that were ahead of their time and are still admired today.

Interesting Fact: Samuel Clemens, who is better known as Mark Twain, invented the self-pasting scrapbook.

Hike at the Mohawk State Forest

Mohawk State Forest, located in Cornwall, Connecticut, offers visitors a chance to explore nature on foot. The park comprises over 4,000 acres of forest and contains five hiking trails. The trails range from easy to strenuous, and they all offer different views of the park's natural beauty. It is an excellent spot for birdwatching, picnicking, and taking in the fresh air.

Interesting Fact: The Mohawk State Forest was once the site of an early iron industry that produced tools, farm equipment and other things necessary for the people living in Connecticut.

Take a Drive on the Taconic State Parkway

The Taconic State Parkway, also known as the Taconic, is a scenic highway that connects the Hudson Valley with the Berkshires. The parkway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the country with its winding roads and stunning autumn foliage. During a road trip, visitors can take the time to stop and take in the views from one of the many scenic overlooks along the highway.

Interesting Fact: The Taconic State Parkway was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

Visit the New Jersey State Botanical Garden

The New Jersey State Botanical Garden is a beautiful and serene destination located in Ringwood, New Jersey. The garden is home to thousands of plants, including rare and endangered species. Besides plants, the garden features numerous walking trails, picnic areas, and open fields for visitors to explore and enjoy.

Interesting Fact: The garden's greenhouse is the largest in the state, with over 3,200 square feet of growing space.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the road trip between Chicopee, Massachusetts, and Hackensack, New Jersey, provides an exciting opportunity to explore some of the most picturesque natural landscapes and iconic landmarks in the country. The trip covers a distance of 210 miles and takes around three hours, with multiple stops along the way. From the Yankee Candle Village to the New Jersey State Botanical Garden, there are plenty of attractions and activities to do. This journey offers plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories with loved ones or seek solace in the breathtaking scenery.