When you’re in need of a weekend getaway in Massachusetts, where do you go? Is it to Boston to explore the city and maybe take in a sports game? Or how about to the Cape for some rest and relaxation beachside or the Berkshires for an escape to the mountains? While you can’t go wrong with any of these options, we think that sometimes heading to one of the small towns in Massachusetts, perhaps one you haven’t thought of yet is a good idea. Today, we will take a look at things to do in Petersham, Massachusetts, which makes an excellent weekend getaway destination.

The town of Petersham in Worcester County was established in 1754. Home to a considerable amount of conservation land in town and around the Quabbin Reservoir, visitors can experience a small-town rural feel and plenty of nature.
Belia Koziak/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Additionally, exploring the Petersham Common Historic District and its charming 19th-century architecture adds to a perfect getaway here.
1. Hiking Trails
Allen Camp Road, Allen Camp Rd, Petersham, MA 01366, USA
Terri Sundstrom Steiner/AllTrails
When you visit Petersham, taking some time out in nature is a must. Whether it's heading to Quabbin Reservation, Swift River Reservation, Brooks Woodland Preserve, or Rutland Brook Wildlife Sanctuary (pictured here), there are numerous hiking trails to explore. Take a look at these trail options around Petersham.
2. Harvard Forest
324 N Main St, Petersham, MA 01366, USA
Galen Oettel/Google
Home to Harvard University's School of Forestry, Harvard Forest encompasses 3,000 acres with plenty of hiking trails for the public to enjoy. You'll experience plenty of peace and quiet here as you connect with nature.

Take a deep look into the history of research at Harvard Forest:

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3. Clamber Hill Inn & Restaurant
111 N Main St, Petersham, MA 01366, USA
Clamber Hill Inn & Restaurant/Facebook
If you're looking for a place to stay in town, the secluded Clamber Hill Inn & Restaurant is the best option. Featuring five rooms and one suite, fireplaces, and a gourmet breakfast, you probably won't want to leave.
Dinner is also served at the inn's on-site restaurant, which is open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. You'll enjoy fine dining and an elegant ambiance here at Clamber Hill.
Clamber Hill Inn & Restaurant/Facebook
4. Quabbin Woods Restaurant
8 Barre Rd, Petersham, MA 01366, USA
Valerie Lagasse/Google
You may also choose to have a casual meal at Quabbin Woods Restaurant. Serving breakfast, lunch, and delectable homemade desserts, you can't go wrong with a stop at this local eatery.
5. The Country Store
2 N Main St, Petersham, MA 01366, USA
Russ Phaneuf/Google
In town, you must also stop at The Country Store, which is set inside a historic 1840s Greek revival-style building. Here you can shop for natural foods and art or swing by for breakfast or lunch. To visit this country store is all part of experiencing the heart of Petersham.

Find out why The Country Store is such a wonderful palace to visit:

Get an aerial view of this bucolic, beautiful town:

Have you explored the town of Petersham? What is your favorite destination for a weekend getaway with lots of things to do in Massachusetts? Please share in the comments. Meanwhile, here’s another one of the wonderful things to do in Pelham, Massachusetts.

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More to Explore

The Best Towns in Massachusetts

William Suphan | March 20, 2023

What are the most charming small towns in Massachusetts?

The most charming small towns in Massachusetts include:

  • Hadley. This town is comprised mostly of open-field farms which are otherwise mostly now absent in the state.
  • Rockport. This coastal town is pure New England charm and has a house that was built out of newspaper called The Paper House.
  • Newburyport. This quaint town is great for antiquing and strolling. Locals and visitors love the Market Square area.
  • Rowe. This is an extremely tiny town of fewer than 400 people and people flock here to enjoy Pelham Lake.

Learn more about the most charming small towns in Massachusetts. 

What are the most historical towns in Massachusetts?

The most historical towns in Massachusetts include:

  • Ipswitch. This town was founded in 1878 by John Winthrop the Younger and is home to the Crane Estate which was built in 1910. 
  • Watertown. This town has one of the first woolen mills in the country which was built in 1662 as well as the first grist mill in New England.
  • Boston. A massive amount of the nation’s history happened right here in Boston, which was originally called Trimountaine.
  • Salem. The town most known for its witch trials was also a crucial place for shipbuilding during the Revolutionary War.

Discover more about the most historical towns in Massachusetts. 

What are the smallest towns in Massachusetts?

The smallest towns in Massachusetts include:

  • Savoy. This was originally called New Seconk when it was settled in 1777 and it has a population of 692 people.
  • Middlefield. This town of 521 people got its start in 1783 and it is full of bucolic beauty and New England charm.
  • Tyringham. This tiny village’s name came from Norse roots which became Olde English and it means the Home of Tyr. 
  • Gosnold. With only 75 people, this is certainly the tiniest town in the state and its town hall is literally a house. 

Find out more about the smallest towns in Massachusetts. 

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