Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicopee, MA and Northborough, MA

Driving from Chicopee, Massachusetts to Northborough, Massachusetts may not seem like the most exciting trip to take, but with a little bit of planning and some willingness to explore, this drive can be turned into a great adventure. The trip covers approximately 68 miles and can take up to 2 hours one way, depending on traffic. There are numerous of small towns, scenic views, and hidden gems to check out along the way. Here are five unexpected places to stop that should not be missed.

1. Sturbridge, MA

Located about halfway between Chicopee and Northborough, Sturbridge is a charming small town with a lot to offer for visitors. The main attraction is the Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum that transports visitors back in time to the 19th century. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride and experience old farm life, see demonstrations of traditional crafts, and explore several different buildings that represent the typical homes and businesses of the time period. For a bite to eat, visitors should check out Sturbridge Coffee Roasters, where they can sip on a fresh cup of coffee and grab a breakfast sandwich.

2. Warren, MA

Located just a few miles east of Sturbridge, Warren is another small town that is worth a stop. This town is known for the Quaboag Historical Society Museum, which offers in-depth information about the town's history, from the first inhabitants to the present day. There is also a farmers market that is open on Sundays, which is the perfect place to grab some fresh produce or locally made crafts. For lunch, visitors can stop by the Breadboard Bakery, which has a fantastic selection of sandwiches, soups, and homemade pastries.

3. West Brookfield, MA

West Brookfield is a picturesque town that is often overlooked by visitors. The downtown area is home to several historic buildings, including the Christ Church, which was built in 1839 and features stunning architecture. Visitors can also walk to Quaboag Pond, which is a serene body of water that is perfect for fishing or a picnic. For lunch, visitors should stop by the Salem Cross Inn, which offers a creative menu in a beautiful setting.

4. Grafton, MA

Grafton is a small town that is just a few miles west of Northborough. This town is home to the Willard House and Clock Museum, which showcases the work of Simon Willard, a famous clockmaker from the 18th century. Visitors can see a variety of different clocks and learn about the history of clock making in America. For a bite to eat, visitors should try the Grafton Grill, which offers a wide variety of dishes, including locally sourced ingredients and craft beer.

5. Shrewsbury, MA

Located just south of Northborough, Shrewsbury is a bustling town that offers plenty of things to see and do. Visitors can stop by the Ward Hill Sculpture Park, which is home to over 60 sculptures created by local artists. There is also Lake Quinsigamond, a beautiful body of water that is perfect for boating or a swim. For lunch, visitors should check out the Sole Proprietor, which offers fresh seafood in a low-key setting.

In conclusion, traveling from Chicopee, Massachusetts to Northborough, Massachusetts might seem like a mundane journey, but there are plenty of stops along the way that can turn it into an exciting adventure. From historical museums to charming small towns, this trip has it all. It's also important to note that there are numerous hidden gems that are not on this list, so be willing to explore and enjoy all that this area of Massachusetts has to offer.