Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Hudson, NY to Keene, NH

Have you been longing for a road trip that’s not too far from home, but takes you through some lesser-known towns? A drive from Hudson, New York to Keene, New Hampshire just might be the perfect escape you’re looking for. The drive is not too long, taking roughly 4 hours, but it’s perfect for a weekend trip. Here are five unexpected places to stop along the way that you'll definitely want to check out!

Halfway Point: Westfield, Massachusetts

Before heading into Massachusetts, you’ll want to be sure to fill up your gas tank in Hudson. From there, you’ll head east on I-90 and pass through the Massachusetts Turnpike. Once you hit exit 3 (Westfield), you’ve reached the halfway point between Hudson and Keene. Westfield has a charming downtown area with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.

1. Amelia Park

Located in Westfield, Amelia Park is a classic New England park with plenty of space to picnic and play. There are baseball and softball fields, basketball courts, and a playground. Amelia Park Ice Arena is also located here, so you can ice skate or catch a hockey game.

Favorite Food: During the summer months, the park hosts a weekly “Food Truck Tuesdays” where you can try out a different food truck each week.

2. Bridge of Flowers

The Bridge of Flowers is a unique and colorful attraction located in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. This 400-foot-long bridge is covered in flowers and spans across the Deerfield River. It’s a breathtaking sight to see and well worth the stop.

Favorite Food: Stop for lunch or dinner at the West End Pub located in Shelburne Falls, which features locally sourced ingredients and a rotating selection of craft beer.

3. Madame Sherri Forest

Madame Sherri Forest is a beautiful destination located in Chesterfield, New Hampshire. The land was once owned by Madame Antoinette Sherri, a French costume designer who built a castle on the property in the 1930s. Today, the castle is in ruins, but the forest trails are a popular spot for hiking and photography.

Favorite Food: Stop at Stella’s Italian Kitchen and Market for a wood-fired pizza and a glass of wine.

4. Cheshire, Massachusetts

Cheshire is a small, picturesque town located in Berkshire County. This town is known for the Cheshire Cobbles, a series of large rocks that create a beautiful landscape. For hiking enthusiasts, the Cheshire Harbor Trail is a 3.5-mile trail that is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the area.

Favorite Food: For a casual meal, head to Bascom Lodge for a delicious sandwich or salad.

5. Quechee Gorge

The Quechee Gorge is a popular tourist attraction located in Quechee, Vermont. At 165 feet deep, it’s known as Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon. The gorge is surrounded by hiking trails and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Favorite Food: For a sweet treat, stop at Simon Pearce, a glassblowing studio and restaurant that offers delicious desserts with a view of the waterfall.

Conclusion

This drive from Hudson, New York to Keene, New Hampshire offers a perfect opportunity to explore some lesser-known towns and attractions. From the colorful Bridge of Flowers to the beautiful Quechee Gorge, there’s plenty to see and do along the way. Take a few days and make the most of this scenic road trip!