Blackstone Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking spots, local culture, and must-try foods in Blackstone, Massachusetts, and plan your next exciting trip.


Introduction to Blackstone

Blackstone is a charming town located in Blackstone Valley in Central Massachusetts, known for its rich culture and natural beauty. The town is one of the hidden gems of Massachusetts, surrounded by lush green forests, serene lakes, and historical landmarks. The town offers a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and history buffs alike.

List of Places to Visit in Blackstone

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Blackstone is famous for its culturally significant museums and historical sites. The town has a preserved history, and visitors can explore the following places:

  • Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park: It is a national historic landmark known for its beautiful landscapes and rich industrial history. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking, and fishing.

  • Historic Blackstone Village: It is a well-preserved village that dates back to the 1800s. Visitors can explore the historic buildings and learn about the lifestyles of the people during the industrial revolution.

  • Blackstone Public Library: The library is a historic landmark, known for its unique architecture and rich collection of books.

Natural Attractions of Blackstone: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Blackstone has numerous natural attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some of the top locations:

  • Purgatory Chasm State Reservation: It is a natural wonder that attracts hikers and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can hike through the chasm and view the rocky cliffs and stunning waterfalls.

  • Blackstone Gorge: It is a picturesque location known for its serene beauty and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and fishing here.

  • Wallum Lake: It is a beautiful lake situated in the tranquil forests of Blackstone Valley. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and boating here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Blackstone

Blackstone is an excellent location for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some popular trails:

  • Blackstone River Greenway: It is a multi-use trail that stretches for 48 miles through the scenic Blackstone Valley. Visitors can bike, hike, or roller-skate on the trail.

  • New England Greenway: It is a long-distance trail that spans for 150 miles from Boston to Providence. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the various attractions along the way.

  • Southern New England Trunkline Trail: It is a linear park spanning for 22 miles in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Visitors can bike, hike, and cross-country ski here.

Best Things to Do in Blackstone: Activities and Tours

Blackstone offers several activities and tours for visitors, such as:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes and explore the hidden beauty of Blackstone’s lakes and rivers.

  • Zip-lining and Aerial Parks: Adventurous visitors can try zip-lining, ropes courses, and other aerial activities at several parks and adventure centers in Blackstone.

  • Fishing: Blackstone has several fishing spots and stocked lakes where visitors can enjoy fishing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Blackstone

Here is an ideal week-long itinerary for visitors to Blackstone:

Day Activity
Day 1-2 Hiking and biking
Day 3 Museums and historical places
Day 4 Outdoor activities
Day 5 Kayaking and canoeing
Day 6 Zip lining and aerial parks
Day 7 Fishing and relaxation

Food and Drink Scene of Blackstone

Blackstone offers a diverse cuisine and beverage scene. Here are some must-try local dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • New England Clam Chowder: A creamy and hearty soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, and corn.

  • Lobster Rolls: A sandwich filled with fresh lobster meat, mayonnaise, and spices.

  • Apple Cider Donuts: Freshly made donuts flavored with apple cider and cinnamon.

Local Beverages

  • Cranberry Juice: A refreshing, tangy juice made from locally grown cranberries.

  • Samuel Adams Beer: A locally brewed beer famous for its unique taste and quality.

  • Harpoon IPA: A pale ale that blends local hops and caramel malt.

Where to Stay in Blackstone: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Blackstone offers several accommodation options for visitors.

  • BW Milford Inn: A 2-star hotel with affordable pricing and comfortable rooms.

  • Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Boston Milford: A 3-star hotel with spacious rooms and state-of-the-art amenities.

  • Comfort Inn Milford: A 2.5-star hotel that offers free breakfast and an indoor pool.

What to Buy in Blackstone: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Blackstone offers numerous shopping opportunities for visitors. They can buy souvenirs and local products such as:

  • Cranberry Relish: A sweet and tart condiment made from locally grown cranberries.

  • Maple Syrup: A sweet and flavorful syrup made from local maple trees.

  • Cheese: A variety of cheese made from locally produced milk.

Local Culture and Customs of Blackstone

Blackstone has a rich culture and traditions deeply rooted in history. Visitors can experience the following local customs:

  • Blackstone Summer Concert Series: A summer-long concert series that features local and national artists.

  • Annual Apple Fest: A festival celebrating the beginning of the apple harvest season, featuring local produce, crafts, and live music.

  • Historic Walking Tours: Visitors can explore the town and its architecture through guided historical walking tours.

Best Time to Visit Blackstone

The best time to visit Blackstone is from May to October when the weather is pleasant, and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and tours.

Do’s and Don’ts of Blackstone

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural attractions.

  • Bring your pets to prohibited areas.

  • Treat locals with disrespect.

Safety and Health

Safety in Blackstone

Blackstone is generally a safe town, but visitors should take precautions such as:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.

  • Always lock cars and rooms securely.

  • Be aware of local wildlife and follow park safety guidelines.

Health in Blackstone

Visitors should maintain good hygiene, drink plenty of water, and use bug spray to avoid tick-borne diseases.

Getting to Blackstone: Transportation Options and Logistics

Blackstone is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, such as:

Airports Near Blackstone

  • Boston Logan International Airport
  • T.F. Green Airport, Providence

Bus Stations Near Blackstone

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Worcester
  • Peter Pan Bus Station, Providence

Other Options

  • Travel by Car: Visitors can rent cars and drive to Blackstone via I-95 or I-495.

How to Get Around in Blackstone

Visitors can explore the town on foot, bike, or car. Some places have limited parking, and visitors should check parking restrictions before parking.

Where to Go Next from Blackstone: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Blackstone is a perfect location for exploring nearby destinations such as:

  • Providence, Rhode Island: A vibrant city known for its rich history, waterways, and culture.

  • Worcester, Massachusetts: A city known for its art, culture, and diverse cuisine.

  • Boston, Massachusetts: The capital city of Massachusetts, known for its rich colonial history, iconic landmarks, and popular tourist attractions.

Conclusion

Blackstone is a hidden gem in Central Massachusetts, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and nature. Visitors can explore the picturesque trails, landmarks, and enjoy the local cuisine and culture. The town is an ideal destination for a relaxing vacation, family trip or solo adventure. Plan your visit to Blackstone and uncover its hidden treasures.

Rolling Dam on the Blackstone River Rolling Dam on the Blackstone River