Start the day at Minute Man National Historical Park just twenty minutes northwest of Boston. On April 19, 1775, the American Revolution began at Lexington and Concord with a clash of arms known to history as “the shot heard round the world”. See the opening battle of the American Revolution brought to life in multimedia exhibits, displays and walking tours at the park’s Visitor Centers in Lincoln and Concord. Visit the Old North Bridge in Concord, where Colonial soldiers both young and old clashed with British Redcoats in a gruesome battle. Explore the back road battlefields, historic landscapes and taverns associated with the 18th Century. Groups and individuals can explore the sites of Lexington and Concord on a unique trolley tour called the Liberty Ride. Ride along the historic Battle Road while your costumed guide recounts the exciting events of April 19, 1775 and the literary legacy that defined American identity and culture. Stops include the Lexington Battle Green where the first skirmish of the War took place, multiple historic taverns, the National Heritage Museum, The Concord Museum and several literary sites in Concord including Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House.
At Orchard House, the historic home of the extraordinary Alcott family, Louisa May Alcott wrote and set Little Women. Your visit to Orchard House becomes a trip to the past with special interactive tours led by expert, authentically costumed guides portraying Alcott family members or their famous friends. Hear fascinating anecdotes and learn first-hand about their lives and times.
In the afternoon, head out to Sholan Farms in Leominster, the last working orchard in Johnny Appleseed country. Run by volunteers, the 169-acre farm welcomes visitors at its farm stand and pick-your-own orchard, and offers trails to walk and vistas to enjoy.
In mid-summer, visitors can make the rounds to a number of area farms to pick blueberries, peaches, raspberries, apples and nectarines. Red Apple Farm in Phillipston is right off historic Route 2 and offers the best naturally-colorful, extra-crisp apples in all of New England. They welcome individuals, families, school tours, social functions, and corporate gatherings to experience an old scenic New England farmstead with plenty of things to see, taste, and experience.
End your day with a delicious meal at the historic Concord’s Colonial Inn. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the original structure was built in 1716. The property has been operated as a hotel since 1889. Situated on Concord’s town common, known as Monument Square, the Inn is surrounded by landmarks of our nation’s literary and revolutionary history.