Massachusetts' Underrated City An Hour Outside Boston Has Cozy New England Charm And Scenic Landscapes

Sometimes an escape from the city is just what's needed to lift the spirits. Anyone in the Boston area is no doubt aware of the city's endless delights, like this historic trail through downtown neighborhoods and churches. But right now, the sleepy villages of Massachusetts are beckoning for a perfect weekend getaway. To bask in refreshing sea breezes and sandy shores, just outside of Boston is an under-the-radar beach perfect for swimming. But if you're looking for classic New England charm, head to Leominster, less than an hour's drive northwest of Boston.

Don't let the spelling of the town's name trip you up — Leominster is actually pronounced "lemon-ster", named for its original counterpart over in England. Head into Leominster's charming downtown historic district to admire the enchanting 19th century architecture and browse the quaint boutiques for souvenirs. Leominster was also the birthplace of Johnny Appleseed, the pioneer nurseryman who brought apple tree varieties to North America, and if you stop in town at the end of September, you'll catch the Johnny Appleseed Festival. The town square will be filled with food stalls and craft vendors, while petting zoos and pony rides offer distractions for children, and live entertainment fills the air.

Bask in the scenic Massachusetts landscape at the Doyle Community Park in the northern part of town, where miles of walking trails through wooded meadows and formal gardens will make the rest of the world feel far away. At the end of the day, head back downtown for a taste of Leominster's mouthwatering dinner options. Whether you're craving pizza, tacos, or Thai food, Leominster's dining scene has got you covered. And for more small-town Massachusetts adventures, barely an hour's drive away is Sturbridge, brimming with old New England charm and cute shops.

You don't have to go far to find breathtaking landscapes around Leominster. Rising up from the west edge of town are the Monoosnoc Hills, and eager adventurers can hike out and back across the Monoosnoc Ridge Trail joining the two granite peaks, basking in the Massachusetts countryside along the way. The trailhead begins just north of downtown Leominster, and crosses through densely wooded terrain and hilly overlooks before ending at Sholan Farms south of town. Though the trails are well marked, be aware that certain sections can be boggy, especially during the spring.

For more excellent hikes coupled with waterfront fun, head to Leominster State Forest beyond the Monoosnoc Hills west of town. Venture through the pleasantly forested trails to find Redemption Rock, a colossal granite ledge which played a fascinating role in early colonial history, or jump in the water at Crow Hill Pond for a refreshing swim. The network of hiking trails within the state forest even joins together with the Monoosnoc Ridge Trail, so you could spend the entire day exploring the scenic wilderness. Skirting the west edge of the state forest is the Wachusett Mountain State Reservation, where you'll find endless trails for off-road biking or trekking to the summit of Wachusett Mountain, while the winter months bring fresh snow for skiing.

Looking for something more low-key? Head down to Sholan Farms in the summer or autumn with the whole family for a day of fruit picking. This city-owned orchard is bursting with blueberries and blackberries in the summer, while apples weigh down the branches in the autumn. Stop by the farm in October for the Harvest Festival, where you'll be able to sip fresh cider and hop on a wagon ride for a heartwarming autumn celebration.

You would be remiss to skip the Johnny Appleseed Festival if you ever find yourself in Leominster in September. Admission is free, and the town square is transformed into a bustling fairground of snacks, craft stalls, and children's activities. Here, you'll find the "World's Best Apple Crisp", served with a dollop of vanilla ice cream, or wander the endless food booths to find a bite that strikes your fancy. Live music stages provide all-day entertainment, while children can delight in a carnival atmosphere as they bounce down inflatable slides and get their faces painted. This annual celebration often welcomes several thousand people to join in the communal merriment, and sometimes Johnny Appleseed himself even makes an appearance.

If you're visiting Leominster outside of the festival and are looking for a scrumptious meal, the downtown district has plenty of options. Try the 110 Grill for excellent American dishes in a comfortable atmosphere coupled with great service, according to a previous visitor, or head over to Thai Jasmine for spicy curries with a side of pho. Right next door is Tacos Los Panchos, a Mexican food truck loved by locals for their great service, outdoor seating, and delicious offerings, whether it's shrimp tacos or asada burritos.

Looking to extend your stay? It wouldn't be a New England vacation if you didn't spend the night at a charming inn. Just outside town is The Chocksett Inn, offering elegant guest rooms amidst an old-world atmosphere and a fantastic on-site restaurant, or stay closer to downtown Leominster with options like DoubleTree by Hilton. Whether you're in town for a fall festival or thrilling outdoor adventures, Leominster certainly won't disappoint.