Freetown Travel Guide

Discover Freetown, Massachusetts with our comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions and hiking trails to local cuisine and cultural experiences, plan your trip to Freetown with ease.


Introduction to Freetown

Freetown is a town in Bristol County, Massachusetts, located in the southeastern part of the state. It is nestled between the Taunton River and the Assonet River and is part of the larger South Coast region of Massachusetts. Freetown covers 38 square miles and is home to several natural attractions, including Freetown-Fall River State Forest and the Copicut Reservoir. The town has a rich history and is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat away from the city.

List of Places to Visit in Freetown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Freetown Historical Society Museum - contains exhibits and artifacts showcasing the town’s history from its settlement in 1659 to the present day.
  • The Green Schoolhouse Museum - features exhibits and lectures on the history of education in Freetown.
  • The Profile Rock - a giant rock formation atop Freetown-Fall River state forest, which the Wampanoag tribe considers to be a sacred site.

Natural Attractions of Freetown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Freetown-Fall River State Forest - a beautiful state forest with hiking and biking trails, horseback riding, fishing, and camping.
  • The Copicut Reservoir - a man-made reservoir perfect for fishing and boating.
  • The Watuppa Reservation - a conservation area with over 4,000 acres of protected land great for hiking and taking in scenic views.
  • Baker’s Beach - a town-owned beach that provides visitors with a quiet and peaceful spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Freetown

Freetown has a variety of scenic hiking and biking trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

  • The Profile Rock Trail - a 3.5-mile moderate hike that takes you to the top of Profile Rock, one of Freetown’s most famous landmarks.
  • The Assonet Ledge Trail - a 2.3-mile route that offers hikers stunning views of the Taunton River and the surrounding forests.
  • The Copicut Trail - a 4.4-mile hike that features a waterfall and a stunning view of the Copicut Reservoir.
  • The River Loop Trail - a 7-mile bike trail that follows the Taunton River and is great for beginners.

Best Things to Do in Freetown: Activities and Tours

  • Kayak Tours - enjoy a guided tour of the Taunton River and its surrounding wildlife with Osprey Sea Kayak Adventures.
  • Horseback Riding - take a guided horseback ride at the nearby Huntington Farm in Rochester.
  • Fishing Trips - book a fishing trip with Captain John Boats and try your hand at catching some of the best fish in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Freetown

Day 1: Explore Freetown-Fall River State Forest. Day 2: Visit the Freetown Historical Society Museum and the Green Schoolhouse Museum. Day 3: Take a kayaking tour down the Taunton River with Osprey Sea Kayak Adventures. Day 4: Go on a fishing trip with Captain John Boats. Day 5: Take a guided horseback ride at Huntington Farm in Rochester. Day 6: Hike the Profile Rock Trail. Day 7: Relax at Baker’s Beach and take in the beautiful views.

Food and Drink Scene of Freetown

Must-Try Dishes

  • Clam Chowder - a classic New England dish made with clams, potatoes, and onions.
  • Fish & Chips - crispy fried fish served with French fries.
  • Lobster Roll - savory lobster meat served on a buttered roll.

Local Beverages

  • Samuel Adams Beer - a popular Boston-based brewery with a wide variety of beers.
  • Cranberry Wine - a locally produced wine made with cranberries, a staple crop in Massachusetts.

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

  • The Inn at Hastings Park - a luxurious hotel located in Lexington.
  • The Boxer Boston - a boutique hotel in downtown Boston, offering comfortable rooms and a great location.
  • Airbnb - Freetown has a variety of Airbnb listings ranging from cozy guesthouses to modern apartments.

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

  • Cranberries - Massachusetts is known for its cranberry production, and there are plenty of local shops selling cranberry-based products.
  • Local Artisan Crafts - support local artists and take home a unique souvenir by purchasing handmade crafts and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Freetown

  • Freetown has a rich history dating back to the Wampanoag tribe’s settlement in the area.
  • The town is known for its beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Massachusetts is a state with a rich maritime history, and seafood is a staple of the local diet.

Best Time to Visit Freetown

The best time to visit Freetown is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak. Summer is a busy season in Freetown, with plenty of outdoor activities happening, but the weather can get hot and humid. Winters can be cold and snowy, so if you plan to visit during this time, be prepared for inclement weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Freetown

Do:

  • Respect the town’s natural surroundings and avoid littering or harming local wildlife.
  • Follow posted signs and regulations when fishing or boating on local lakes and rivers.
  • Enjoy Freetown’s laid-back atmosphere and take some time to relax in nature.

Don’t:

  • Ignore signs or warnings about dangerous weather or wildlife.
  • Engage in loud or disruptive behavior that disturbs others’ peaceful enjoyment of nature.
  • Damage or remove artifacts or belongings from historical sites or museums.

Safety and Health

Safety in Freetown

Freetown is a relatively safe and peaceful town, but visitors should take the usual precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Avoid leaving valuables in visible locations in your car, and ensure that your accommodations have a secure lock on the door. Be aware of local weather conditions, as Massachusetts can experience severe storms, particularly in the winter months.

Health in Freetown

Freetown has several healthcare facilities, including Freetown Family Health Center and St. Luke’s Hospital in nearby New Bedford. It’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before traveling and ensure that you have any necessary medications and vaccinations before your trip.

Getting to Freetown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Freetown

The closest major airport to Freetown is Boston Logan International Airport, located approximately 60 miles away. Smaller airports in the area include New Bedford Regional Airport and T.F. Green Airport in Providence, RI.

Bus Stations Near Freetown

Peter Pan Bus Lines has a station in New Bedford, which is about 20 minutes away from Freetown.

Other Options

The easiest way to get to Freetown is by car. The town is conveniently located near Interstates 95 and 495.

How to Get Around in Freetown

The best way to get around Freetown is by car. However, there are also local taxi services available, and Uber is available in the area.

Where to Go Next from Freetown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • New Bedford - a historic town known for its whaling history and charming cobblestone streets.
  • Boston - the capital of Massachusetts, and a bustling city full of history, culture, and great food.
  • Plymouth - known as the site of the first Pilgrim colony in America, Plymouth is a picturesque coastal town with plenty of historical sites and attractions.

Conclusion

Freetown, Massachusetts, is a hidden gem in the South Coast area, offering visitors a wide range of outdoor activities, fascinating historical sites, and peaceful natural surroundings. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a quiet spot to relax, Freetown has something to offer. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan your perfect getaway to Freetown with ease.