Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chicopee, Massachusetts and Montague, Massachusetts
Chicopee and Montague are two small towns located in Western Massachusetts. If you're looking for a road trip that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state, this route is a must-see. The trip covers over 70 miles and offers plenty of scenic stops along the way. You'll also pass through several historic towns, including Northampton, which marks the halfway point of the trip.
Top 5 Things to Do
1. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is a must-see for anyone who loves children's literature. The museum features exhibits of original illustrations from some of the most beloved picture books, including The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle. The museum has a collection of over 13,000 picture book illustrations, making it the largest collection of its kind.
2. Mount Holyoke Range State Park
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Mount Holyoke Range State Park. The park offers over 30 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Mount Holyoke Summit Trail. The park is also home to several species of wildlife, including deer, black bear, and coyotes.
3. Amherst Farmers' Market
The Amherst Farmers' Market is open every Saturday from April to November. It features over 40 local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The market is a great place to sample local foods and learn about the farming community in the Pioneer Valley.
4. Yankee Candle Flagship Store
The Yankee Candle Flagship Store is a must-see for anyone who loves candles. The store features over 200,000 candles in 200 different scents. Visitors can also make their own candles at the store's candle-making workshop.
5. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens
The Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens is a beautiful indoor garden that is home to over 3,000 butterflies from all over the world. Visitors can walk through the conservatory and see the butterflies up close in their natural habitat. The conservatory is also home to several species of birds and tropical plants.
Interesting Facts
- The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art was founded by Eric Carle, the author and illustrator of The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
- Mount Holyoke Range State Park was once home to a popular hotel that was destroyed in a fire in 1900.
- The Amherst Farmers' Market has been in operation since 1973 and is one of the oldest farmers' markets in the region.
- The Yankee Candle Flagship Store has a Bavarian Village that features a replica of the Ludwigsburg Castle in Germany.
- The Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens has been named one of the top 10 butterfly conservatories in the United States.
Conclusion
This road trip from Chicopee to Montague offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration and cultural immersion. The trip takes approximately 2 hours to complete and offers a halfway point in the town of Northampton, where you can grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. With so many great things to see and do along the way, this road trip is a perfect weekend adventure for anyone looking to explore Western Massachusetts.