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

If you're looking for a scenic drive through Massachusetts, make sure to check out the route between Chicopee and Upton. This drive will take you through many small towns with great restaurants and shops to explore. The route is approximately 65 miles long and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Here are five unexpected places to stop along the way and make the most of your journey.

Halfway Point: Sturbridge, MA

Before diving into the unexpected places to stop, we suggest visiting Sturbridge, which is the halfway point between Chicopee and Upton. Sturbridge is a historic town with many attractions, such as the Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum that recreates the experience of life in the early 19th century in New England. In this town, you can also find many great restaurants serving local cuisine, such as the Publick House Historic Inn, which was established in 1771 and has been serving food and drinks ever since.

1. Quabbin Reservoir

Located in Belchertown, the Quabbin Reservoir is an unexpected natural wonder to visit. The reservoir is the primary drinking water source for Boston and its surrounding communities, but it also attracts many visitors for its scenic beauty. The Quabbin is home to many hiking and nature trails with breathtaking views of the thousands of acres of protected wilderness. Make sure to bring your camera!

Favorite Food to Eat: Since the reservoir is in a remote location, bringing a picnic or snacks to enjoy while admiring the view is the best option.

2. Worcester Art Museum

Driving through Worcester, MA, don't forget to stop at the Worcester Art Museum. This museum houses over 35,000 pieces of art from around the world, including European and American paintings, Asian art, and contemporary works. The building itself is a work of art, with a stunning glass-enclosed Renaissance Court.

Favorite Food to Eat: On the museum's grounds, there is the Museum Cafe, which serves light lunches, snacks, and drinks.

3. Wallingford's Fruit House

Next stop in Auburn, MA to visit Wallingford's Fruit House. This family-owned business has been operating for over 70 years and is a popular spot for apple picking in the fall and stocking up on fresh fruits and vegetables in the summer. Visitors can also enjoy homemade cider donuts, which are a must-try when visiting Wallingford's Fruit House.

Favorite Food to Eat: Cider donuts, fresh apple cider, and apple crisp.

4. The Salem Cross Inn

The Salem Cross Inn is a historic tavern and farm restaurant located in West Brookfield, MA. The building is over 200 years old and has been fully restored to its original state. Visitors can enjoy classic New England cuisine, such as pot roast, Yankee pot roast, and chicken pie, all cooked over an open hearth in the restaurant's original kitchen.

Favorite Food to Eat: Chicken pie, mashed potatoes, and homemade apple pie for dessert.

5. Wayside Inn

Located in Sudbury, MA, The Wayside Inn is a landmark in Massachusetts and the oldest operating inn in the U.S. The inn has been open since 1797 and has preserved its historic charm, while offering modern amenities. Visitors can dine in one of the inn's restaurants and enjoy classic New England dishes, such as clam chowder, lobster rolls, and roast beef.

Favorite Food to Eat: Clam chowder and lobster roll with a side of sweet potato fries.

Conclusion

The drive from Chicopee, MA to Upton, MA may not be the first route that comes to mind when thinking about traveling through Massachusetts, but it is one that is worth taking. From the Quabbin Reservoir, a natural wonder, to historic taverns like the Salem Cross Inn, there are plenty of unexpected stops that make this trip a unique experience. With plenty of delicious food options to choose from, this drive is perfect for foodies and history buffs alike.