We’ve rounded up three summer adventures that encompass the natural beauty and uniqueness of the region. Choose your favorite destination and explore Central Massachusetts—conveniently located located less than an hour and a half from Providence, Boston, and Hartford.

Animal adventures and drive-in movies
Mendon, Massachusetts

You’ll want to head over to Southwick’s Zoo early to soak in the full day of animal adventures that are fun for kids and adults alike. Being New England’s largest zoo, you can visit over 850 animals, including giraffes, big cats, and rhinos. Get up close to the animals at the Deer Forest, Parakeet Landing, or Goat Petting Zoo.

Grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Galliford’s Restaurant and Tavern, which features an outdoor BBQ.

Plus, don’t forget to schedule an animal show, pony ride, camel ride, and amusement ride for the kids.

Once the zoo closes at 5 p.m., make your way over to the Mendon Twin Drive-In to get the best spot in the house. While you wait for the show to begin, grab a drink at the beer garden (all ages welcome) while the kids hula-hoop away. The time will fly by while you hang out by the fire pit, eat s’mores, and enjoy the vibe of this classic American pastime.

A day at the lake and live music
Webster, Massachusetts

Webster Lake offers visitors a relaxing and tranquil natural asset for swimming, boating, kayaking, and more.

Indian Ranch is a beach-front outdoor concert venue where you can spend the day cooking outside, swimming, and taking a ride on the Indian Princess before catching a show.

The summer concert series has been running for 70 years and has welcomed artists such as Johnny Cash, Tammy Wynette, Willie Nelson, Blake Shelton, and Brad Paisley to the stage.

If you’re looking for a day of fun and adventure, head over to Lakeview Marine Inc. to rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board to explore the lake for the day.

After a day of swimming and boating; you’ll likely have worked up a good appetite. Take the 10 minute drive over to Worcester and explore one of the city’s many foodie destinations.

Stay the night in Worcester or camp out at Indian Ranch to extend your day trip in to a full summer vacation.

Natural beauty and farm-fresh food
Sutton, Massachusetts

Start your morning off with a hike at one of the area’s many beautiful hiking spots. Purgatory Chasm in Sutton is a unique natural landmark that features a hike through 70 foot high granite rocks. Take the trail that follows the top of the chasm for less experienced hikers or children. Dogs are allowed and kids can take a break on the playground by the visitors center.

Check out the many events happening at Whittier Farms, including a farmer’s market with live music and farm-to-table dinners. The Milk Store is open until 7 p.m. daily and offers a selection of farm-fresh local products. Pick up some bakery-fresh bread, cabot cheese, and deli meat to make a quick and delicious picnic lunch.

If you’ve got kids in tow, or you have a craving for farm-fresh ice cream, stop by West End Creamery for lunch at the Chuck Wagon (Tues-Sun until 4 p.m.) and some of the best ice cream around from The Creamery (open until 10 p.m. every day in the summer.) Continue the fun with mini golf or let the kids jump away at the Barnyard Jump. Plus, it’s all dog friendly.

End the day with an art opening or cultural exhibit at ValleyCAST, a host of many art and cultural events throughout the year. Visit for an art opening and enjoy wine and cheese in the Heritage Gallery or stop by for live music in the Plaza every Thursday night during July and August.