South County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of South County, Massachusetts.


Introduction to South County

Located in Central Massachusetts, South County is a hidden gem in the heart of New England. It is a region that embodies the essence of small-town life, with beautiful landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant culture. The region is home to several picturesque towns, including Sturbridge, Southbridge, and Dudley.

List of Places to Visit in South County

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, South County has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the top places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Old Sturbridge Village: Step back in time to the 1830s at this living history museum. Explore more than 40 buildings, including homes, farms, and mills, and interact with costumed interpreters who bring history to life.
  • Brimfield Antique Flea Markets: Held three times a year, this world-renowned flea market attracts antique lovers from all over the world. With over 5,000 dealers and 20 fields to explore, you could spend days browsing the unique treasures and collectibles.
  • The Last Green Valley: Spanning across Connecticut and Massachusetts, this national heritage corridor is home to beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and quaint villages.

Natural Attractions of South County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center: Boasting over 200 acres of rolling hills and pristine lakes, this resort offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, tennis, hiking, and canoeing.
  • Westville Recreation Area: Situated in the heart of Sturbridge, this 200-acre park features hiking trails, swimming ponds, and picnic areas. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing day in nature.
  • The Publick House Historic Inn and Country Lodge: Set on 25 acres of manicured gardens and woodlands, this historic inn offers stunning views of the countryside. Take a stroll around the property to admire the beautiful colors of the autumn foliage.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South County

South County has a variety of hiking and biking routes, ranging from easy scenic paths to challenging trails for experienced adventurers. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Quinebaug River Trail: This 5-mile trail follows the Quinebaug River and offers scenic views of the rolling countryside along the way. It’s an easy, family-friendly trail that’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
  • Mass Central Rail Trail: This 104-mile trail is a paradise for avid bikers. It passes through several picturesque towns in Central Massachusetts, including Sturbridge, and offers breathtaking views of the New England countryside.
  • Westville Dam: This 5-mile loop trail is a moderately challenging hike that offers stunning views of the Westville Lake. It’s a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing as well.

Best Things to Do in South County: Activities and Tours

From wine tasting tours to historical reenactments, South County has a diverse range of activities to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • Wine Tasting Tours: Explore some of the best wineries in New England on a wine tasting tour. Sample delicious wines and learn about the wine-making process from knowledgeable guides.
  • Sturbridge Host Golf Course: This 18-hole championship course offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills and picturesque lakes. It’s a challenging course that’s perfect for experienced golfers.
  • Maple Sugaring: South County is known for its delicious maple syrup, and many local farms offer maple sugaring tours in the spring. Learn about the process of making maple syrup and sample some of the sweet treats.

Week-Long Itinerary for South County

If you’re planning a week-long visit to South County, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Old Sturbridge Village
Day 2 Explore the Brimfield Antique Flea Market
Day 3 Hike the Westville Dam trail and visit the Publick House Historic Inn
Day 4 Take a wine tasting tour of local wineries
Day 5 Play a round of golf at the Sturbridge Host Golf Course
Day 6 Visit The Last Green Valley and enjoy a picnic lunch
Day 7 Participate in a maple sugaring tour at a local farm

Food and Drink Scene of South County

South County is a foodie’s paradise, with plenty of local restaurants and specialty shops offering delicious food and drink options. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Clam Chowder: New England is famous for its creamy, hearty clam chowder, and South County is no exception. You can find this dish on the menu of almost every local seafood restaurant.
  • Apple Cider Donuts: This seasonal treat is a New England staple. Made with freshly-pressed apple cider and a blend of warming spices, it’s the perfect autumn snack.
  • Lobster Roll: Another seafood classic, the lobster roll is a must-try when visiting South County. Served on a buttery roll and loaded with fresh lobster meat, it’s a delicious and indulgent treat.

Local Beverages

  • Samuel Adams Beer: Founded in Boston in 1984, Samuel Adams is now one of the largest craft breweries in the United States. The brewery offers a range of delicious beers that pair perfectly with local cuisine.
  • New England Cider: Made with local apples, New England cider is a refreshing drink that’s perfect for a warm autumn day.
  • Harpoon Brewery Beer: Based in Boston, Harpoon Brewery produces a wide variety of beers, including seasonal favorites like pumpkin ale and Oktoberfest lager.

Where to Stay in South County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South County has a diverse range of accommodation options, from charming guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Sturbridge Host Hotel & Conference Center: This resort offers comfortable rooms, several dining options, and a range of outdoor activities, including horseback riding and canoeing.
  • Publick House Historic Inn and Country Lodge: This historic inn dates back to the 1700s and offers cozy rooms, a popular restaurant, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Southbridge Hotel & Conference Center: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a range of amenities for business travelers.

What to Buy in South County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, South County has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Maple Syrup: South County is known for its delicious maple syrup, and you can find this sweet treat at local farms and specialty shops.
  • Antiques: With the Brimfield Antique Flea Market and several antique shops in the region, South County is the perfect place to find unique vintage treasures.
  • Handmade Crafts: Local artists and craftspeople sell handmade pottery, jewelry, and other artisanal items at fairs and markets throughout the year.

Local Culture and Customs of South County

South County is a friendly and welcoming community that’s proud of its New England roots. Here are some interesting customs and cultural traditions to be aware of:

  • Fall Foliage: Autumn is a magical time in South County, with vibrant oranges, yellows, and reds lighting up the forests and hillsides. Leaf peeping is a popular activity, and locals take great pride in the beautiful foliage.
  • Village Common: Many of the towns in South County have a village common, a central gathering place for events and celebrations. Locals often hold parades, fairs, and other community events on the village common.
  • Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving is celebrated with great enthusiasm in New England, and many families in South County have their own traditions and recipes for the holiday. Roast turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce are staples of the Thanksgiving table.

Best Time to Visit South County

South County is beautiful throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

  • Spring: Spring is a great time to visit if you want to experience maple sugaring, attend a local fair or festival, or go hiking on the many trails in the region.
  • Summer: Summer is ideal for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and golfing, as well as exploring local farms and orchards.
  • Autumn: Autumn is the peak season in South County, with stunning fall foliage and seasonal events like apple picking and pumpkin festivals.
  • Winter: Winter is a quiet season in South County, but it’s a great time to enjoy cozy indoor activities like sipping hot cocoa by the fire or exploring local museums.

Do’s and Don’ts of South County

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting South County:

Do:

  • Support Local Businesses: South County is home to many small businesses, and supporting them is key to keeping the local economy thriving.
  • Explore the Outdoors: With its beautiful parks and hiking trails, South County is a great place to go for a walk or a hike and immerse yourself in nature.
  • Respect Local Customs: New Englanders are proud of their traditions and cultural heritage, so be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter: South County is a pristine natural environment, so be sure to dispose of your waste properly and pack out anything you bring in.
  • Be Disrespectful to Locals: South County residents are known for their friendly and welcoming personalities, so avoid being rude or dismissive of locals.
  • Trespass on Private Property: Many of the farms and orchards in South County are family-owned and operated, so be sure to respect private property.

Safety and Health

South County is a safe and healthy destination, with a low crime rate and access to quality healthcare. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Safety in South County

  • Stay Alert in Natural Areas: While South County is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and watch out for potential hazards, like uneven terrain or wet leaves on trails.
  • Stay Hydrated: With its warm summers and long hikes, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid heat exhaustion.
  • Respect Wildlife: South County is home to a variety of wildlife, from deer to black bears. Keep a safe distance and avoid feeding or approaching animals.

Health in South County

  • Stay Current on Vaccines: Check with your doctor to ensure you’re up to date on routine vaccines, like the flu shot and tetanus booster.
  • Pack Sunscreen: With its sunny days and outdoor activities, South County is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, but be sure to protect your skin with sunscreen.
  • Stay Active: South County offers many opportunities for physical activity, which is key to maintaining good health. Take advantage of the many parks and trails to stay active and healthy.

Getting to South County: Transportation Options and Logistics

South County is easily accessible from major New England cities like Boston and Hartford. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near South County

  • Boston Logan International Airport: This major international airport is located 63 miles east of South County and offers flights to destinations all over the world.
  • Bradley International Airport: Located 38 miles south of South County, this airport serves several major airlines with destinations throughout the United States.

Bus Stations Near South County

  • Worcester Regional Transit Authority: This public transit system serves Worcester and the surrounding areas, with regular bus service to South County.

Other Options

  • Road Trips: South County is easily accessible by car via major highways like I-90 and I-84. Renting a car is a great way to explore all that the region has to offer.

How to Get Around in South County

South County is easily navigable by car, but if you prefer alternative modes of transportation, there are several options available, including:

  • Biking/Walking: South County offers several scenic bikeways and walking trails for those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike.
  • Public Transportation: The Worcester Regional Transit Authority offers regular bus service to South County from nearby towns and cities.
  • Ridesharing: Uber and Lyft are both available in South County, and can be a convenient option for getting around if you don’t have a car.

Where to Go Next from South County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time and want to explore other nearby destinations, here are some options:

  • Boston: Head east for a day trip to Boston, one of the oldest and most historic cities in the United States.
  • Cape Cod: Head south for a trip to Cape Cod, home to sandy beaches, quaint seaside towns, and delicious seafood.
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Head southeast for a visit to Newport, a beautiful coastal town known for its mansions, sailing, and scenic charm.

Conclusion

South County is a beautiful and welcoming region that offers something for everyone. From scenic hiking trails to cozy inns and delicious local cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. So pack your bags, grab your map, and get ready to explore this hidden gem in the heart of New England.



    Charlton
    Sturbridge