Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Albany, NY to Leominster, MA
Are you planning a road trip from Albany, NY to Leominster, MA? This 140-mile drive can be completed in under 3 hours, but why not make the journey more interesting and stop at some unique places along the way? Here are five unexpected places to add to your itinerary that are sure to make your trip unforgettable.
Halfway Point: West Springfield, MA
Before we dive into the unexpected stops, let’s start with the halfway point of the journey: West Springfield, MA. Located in Hampden County, West Springfield is known for its annual Big E fair, but there’s more to this town than that. Take a stroll through the Mittineague Park, a 200-acre woodland park with walking trails and a picnic area, or visit Storrowton Village Museum to experience life in the 19th century. West Springfield is also home to various restaurants and diners, making it the perfect stop to grab a bite before heading to the next destination.
1. Retro Pop Soda Shop (Jefferson, MA)
Retro Pop Soda Shop is a hidden gem located in a strip mall in Jefferson, MA. This old-school soda shop offers over 350 bottled sodas, including unique flavors like pickle, buffalo wing, and blueberry pancake. The walls are covered in vintage posters and memorabilia, making it a fun and quirky spot to enjoy a soda and a snack. Their menu includes classic American fare like hot dogs and burgers, but their milkshakes are a must-try.
Favorite food: “The Elvis” milkshake, a peanut butter and banana shake topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
2. Bridge of Flowers (Shelburne Falls, MA)
Located in the charming town of Shelburne Falls, the Bridge of Flowers is a unique attraction that should not be missed. This 400-foot-long former trolley bridge is now a garden oasis featuring over 500 varieties of plants, shrubs, and trees. The bridge overlooks the Deerfield River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Take a stroll along the bridge, enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrances of the flowers, and snap some photos for Instagram.
Favorite food: Blueberry muffin from Shelburne Falls Coffee Roasters, a cozy café located near the bridge entrance.
3. Yankee Candle Village (South Deerfield, MA)
Candles may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of New England attractions, but Yankee Candle Village is a destination that’s worth a stop. This 90,000-square-foot store is more than just a candle shop, it’s an experience. Wander through the different rooms and themed areas, including a Christmas room, a candy store, and a home décor section. Yankee Candle Village also offers candle-making demonstrations, personalized candle labeling, and a café.
Favorite food: Apple pie a la mode from Chandler’s Restaurant, located inside Yankee Candle Village.
4. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory (South Deerfield, MA)
If you’re looking for a unique and peaceful experience, step into the Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. This indoor tropical paradise houses over 4,000 exotic and domestic butterflies from around the world. Walk through the lush gardens and waterfalls while the butterflies flutter around you, or take a guided tour to learn more about the butterfly life cycle and habits. The conservatory also features a gift shop with butterfly-themed merchandise.
Favorite food: Chicken and avocado sandwich from The Tea Rose Inn, a Victorian bed and breakfast located less than a mile away.
5. Wachusett Mountain State Reservation (Princeton, MA)
Wachusett Mountain State Reservation is an outdoor lover’s paradise. This state park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire on a clear day. In the winter, the park is transformed into a skiing and snowboarding destination, with multiple trails and chairlifts. There are also picnic areas and a visitor center with information about the park’s history and ecology.
Favorite food: “Mountain Burger” from the Wachusett Mountain ski lodge, a juicy burger topped with bacon and cheese.
Why You Should Take This Trip
The drive from Albany, NY to Leominster, MA may seem like a quick and boring one, but there are plenty of hidden gems to make it more exciting. From an old-school soda shop to a butterfly conservatory, there’s something for everyone along the way. Take a break from the highway and explore the charming towns and unique attractions of Western Massachusetts. Who knows, you may find a new favorite spot to add to your future road trip routes.