Cumberland, Rhode Island to Boston, Massachusetts is a drive that is just under an hour long, making it the perfect distance for a day trip. The route taken passes through some unexpectedly charming towns and attractions worth stopping for. The drive is quite picturesque, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing. On a recent trip, the writer took this drive and discovered some unexpected gems along the way. The entire trip took about 45 minutes, and it was a pleasant and relaxing way to spend a day.
Halfway Point: Foxborough, MA
Patriot Place - One unexpected place to stop on the drive from Cumberland, Rhode Island to Boston, Massachusetts is the iconic Patriot Place in Foxborough, MA. This outdoor shopping center offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, catch a movie, or even take a tour of the nearby Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots. For sports fans or anyone looking for a fun and lively place to stretch their legs, Patriot Place is definitely worth a stop. The writer's favorite food to eat at Patriot Place is the famous New England clam chowder.
Wrentham Village Premium Outlets - Just a short drive from Patriot Place is another unexpected stop, the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets. This outdoor shopping mecca is home to over 170 stores offering discounted prices on designer and name-brand merchandise. Visitors can spend hours browsing through stores such as Coach, Nike, and Michael Kors to find great deals on clothing, accessories, and more. It's the perfect place for a shopping break and the writer's favorite food to eat here is the classic pepperoni pizza from the food court.
Pawtucket Falls - As the drive continues towards Boston, a great place to stop and stretch your legs is at the beautiful Pawtucket Falls in the city of Lowell, MA. The falls are a picturesque sight, and there are walking trails and picnic areas nearby. It's a peaceful and serene stop, perfect for taking in the natural beauty of the area. The writer's favorite food to eat while visiting Pawtucket Falls is a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, enjoyed while sitting near the falls and enjoying the scenery.
Great Brook Farm State Park - Another unexpected place to stop on the drive from Cumberland, Rhode Island to Boston, Massachusetts is Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle, MA. This sprawling state park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. There are also farm animals to visit, a pond for fishing and canoeing, and a dairy store where visitors can purchase homemade ice cream. The park is a great place to get some fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of New England. The writer's favorite food to eat at Great Brook Farm State Park is a delicious cone of homemade ice cream in a variety of flavors.
Lexington Battle Green - Finally, the last unexpected stop on the drive from Cumberland, Rhode Island to Boston, Massachusetts is the historic Lexington Battle Green in Lexington, MA. This is the site of the first battle of the American Revolutionary War, and it is a must-see for history enthusiasts. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the area and learn about the events that took place here in 1775. It's a fascinating and important piece of American history, and it's definitely worth a visit. For the last leg of the trip, the writer recommends picking up a classic lobster roll from one of the local seafood restaurants to enjoy on the way to Boston.
In conclusion, the drive from Cumberland, Rhode Island to Boston, Massachusetts offers the perfect opportunity to explore some unexpected and charming places along the way. From outdoor shopping centers and natural parks to historic landmarks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The drive is a wonderful way to experience the beauty and diversity of New England, and the writer encourages readers to embark on this journey and discover these hidden gems for themselves.