There’s nothing like a good road trip to shake you out of your everyday routine and brush those cobwebs from your sense of adventure. However, we all know that gas can get pricey, and you want to save as much of that hard-earned cash for goodies along the way. Luckily, you can see plenty of awesome attractions in Massachusetts for the cost of a single tank of gas.
A tank of gas will take the average car between 300-500 miles. Older and larger vehicles will probably be on the lower end of that scale, but in 2016, the average m.p.g. for a new car was about 25.5 miles per gallon, or 445 miles on a full tank. Click here to calculate exactly how far a tank of gas will take you in your car.
This trip covers about 275 miles, which means that even older cars will be able to tackle it on a single tank. The total drive time is around 5.5 hours. Click here for the interactive map and driving directions.
Sledding anyone? If you love wintery fun, this is a must-visit stop. New England Sports Park in Amesbury has some of the best tubing slopes in the East. Since they can create their own snow, you don't need to worry about waiting for a blizzard to head to this sledding park. You can ride the slopes as many times as you like within a three-hour block.
Looking to add a bit of a thrill to your road trip? This abandoned train tunnel in Clinton is the perfect place to stretch your legs and do some exploring. Built during the construction of the Wachusett Dam, over 4,000 bodies from nearby cemeteries had to be relocated to make room for the new construction. That's led to plenty of reports that the tunnel is haunted. This tunnel is open for public use, has been deemed totally safe, and locals often bring their kids along for the adventure.
This is one of two castles on this list, but the only one where you can actually feast like a royal. The Castle Restaurant was built in 1937 out of actual stone (it's not just a faux-stone facade), and has won multiple awards for its delicious fare. Dine out on the balcony overlooking the water, or in the regal indoor dining room that is decorated with antiques and luxurious furnishings. Though it may look like a meal here costs a pretty penny, The Castle Restaurant is actually an affordable lunch spot.
Imagine walking into a glittering cave of pink salt, lighted by twinkling candles and filled with healing vapors. This therapeutic salt cave in Westport is the perfect place to loosen up after all that time in the car. The salt cave is meant to be beneficial to skin, respiratory and joint problems in particular, but it's a soothing experience even if you don't have any medical conditions. Pull up an anti-gravity recliner, dig your toes into the salty floor and let your stress melt away. It's just $45 for one session!
This is one of the largest flea markets in New England, and features over 500 vendors hawking their wares. You can explore over 10-acres of treasures and knick-knacks, and pick up a souvenir or two. If the weather is poor, there's a massive indoor "Mart" that offers plenty of goodies to peruse.
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6. The Ever So Humble Pie Company Inc., East Walpole
There's always room for pie. Stop by this unassuming spot for a heaping helping of sugary goodness. They specialize adorable hand pies, andd are known for making the flakiest, most buttery crust around. They also offer vegan and allergen-free pies, so everyone can have a slice.
It wouldn't be surprising to spot a fairy peeking out from behind a blossom in this spectacular hidden garden. This public botanic garden showcases native New England plants along winding, naturalistic paths. It's a living museum of rare and beautiful native plants, and the perfect spot to get lost in nature.
A visit to this amazing castle will feel like a fairytale come to life. Located atop the stony cliffs of Gloucester Harbor, Hammond Castle was built in 1926 by a local inventor for his wife. Today, you can tour the opulent interior and gaze out over the sea from its many scenic balconies.
Looking for more Massachusetts road trip inspiration? Check out this perfectly planned trip that will take you to some of the state’s most amazing natural wonders.
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