Location: Winchendon
Top Things to do in Winchendon
10 Things to Do in Winchendon That You Shouldn't Miss
Winchendon is a town in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. The population was 10,300 at the 2010 census. The town includes the villages of Waterville and Winchendon Springs (also known as Spring Village). A census-designated place, also named Winchendon, is defined within the town for statistical purposes. The Winchendon State Forest, a 174.5 acres (70.62 hectares) parcel, is located within the township as is Otter River State Forest; both recreational areas are managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
Restaurants in Winchendon
1. Lake Dennison State Recreation Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 41 reviews
Reviewed By Dickruns - Mashpee, Massachusetts
great place to hike for those not into climbing mountains, trails are wide and clear, plenty of different routes so that you can vary distances and routes, quit and never see motor bikes or 4 wheelers driving around so walking is safe
2. Red Apple Farm
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 65 reviews
Reviewed By shel. - Phillipston, Massachusetts
Great place to spend time in the summer and fall. Not as busy as some other apple picking places I've been to which is nice. The apple cider donuts are a must. Kids enjoyed the hayride and feeding the animals. So many great photo opportunities as well.
3. Cathedral of the Pines
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 105 reviews
Reviewed By redeco - Warren, Massachusetts
Cathedral of the Pines is exactly as its name would suggest - an outdoor sanctuary in a natural setting with views of Mount Monadnock. The site is non-denominational and is dedicated to all Americans who serve the nation. Congress recognized the site in 1957 as a National Memorial to American War Dead.
The visitor center is staffed with friendly interpreters who are more than helpful. The gardens are beautifully tended, and the Women's Memorial Bell Tower is inspirational to say the very least. The main altar contains rocks and stones from each of our 50 states and from every President since Harry Truman. There is also a fine small museum, and a gift shop.
I particularly loved the Mother Chapel on the hillside below the main sanctuary. The smaller chapel has a wonderful little waterfall behind the altar. Charming. Take time to walk the paths. Each is punctuated by plaques and monuments placed by loving families. This is a wonderfully spiritual place - an Oasis of Calm for our very troubled world. Enjoy.
4. Doane's Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 42 reviews
Descend a short streamside trail and get an up-close experience with a raucous series of plunging falls.
Reviewed By dave d - Bradford, Massachusetts
I parked at the day hike parking lot at the Tully lake campground, just a short road hike then onto the (handicap accessible) trail. You can continue further up and look at a number of falls on some rougher and steeper trail. Well worth the trip.
5. Priscilla Candy Shop
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 43 reviews
Reviewed By Meghan H - Gardner, Massachusetts, United States
Great fudge chocolates and other snacks. Very clean and well put together. Staff is very friendly. Prices are a little high but you get what you pay for.
6. Royalston Falls
Overall Ratings
4 based on 25 reviews
Follow a descending trail that leads to a deep, ancient gorge carved by prehistoric glacial meltwater to falls that plunge 45 feet into a basin.
Reviewed By 908justinz - East Pepperell, Massachusetts, United States
Went to see the falls. The map out front at the trail head was very faded and it appeared that there was a trail loop presumably to the falls and back. We followed the Tully Trail which was yellow painted dots on trees. The trails were filled with orange salamanders which was cool to see. Spent most of our time trying to avoid stepping on them. We got to a couple clearings where there were some running water down 5-10ft "falls" which weren't marked so we almost assumed this was what we were looking for. Luckily we went a bit further and found a sign near a small log bridge and shelter area. 0.3 more miles to falls. We trekked on and came to the falls. It was a nice area but the views weren't very good. You almost had to look straight down at them or the other spot to view was half obstructed. We continued on the Tully trail and it was poorly marked and other trails unmarked jutted off which could be confusing to someone. There were plenty of spots throughout the hike that were completely mud to the point where it was over the ankle and we had to find ways around off the trail. Some steep climbs and descents on the trail where if someone wasn't prepared could easily roll and ankle or slip. Not access for handicap. Not for small children or anyone not able to climb steep and slippery hillsides. No cell service in area. Approx 3 miles on the Tully trail after the falls and we came to Warwick Rd. We asked the man mowing his grass across the street where the parking lot was where we came from. He was so pleasant and knew the area well and advised we were to either hike the whole way back or 5 miles on the road. He jumped right out and offered a ride and says he has done it for many many people before. Wouldn't take any money. We will be sending a care package for his generosity. My feeling is if all these people are doing the same thing that maybe it should be marked or explained better. I also blame ourselves of course for not being better prepared or educated about our hike. I'd recommend this if someone is already in the area while passing our experience on to make your way back the way you came. Lesson learned but overall an average place to visit.
7. Gardner Bicentennial Chair
Overall Ratings
4 based on 20 reviews
Reviewed By nativeplantster - Acton, MA
Yes, it is a very big chair. Since it is unlikely you'll have a chance to see anything like this in Mass, definitely stop by when you are in the area--and bring the camera. Try early or late in the day for the best light and enjoy. And if you like oversized things--there is also a very large metal rooster in front of a nearby diner. Make it a destination--and then stop and have a brew at the Gardner Alehouse. Gardner can be a great "off the beaten track" destination
8. Jacobs Hill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Climb through a forest of beech, hemlock, and birch to reach an unparalleled wilderness vista, then explore Spirit Falls as it rolls down the mountainside.
Reviewed By emilyjoy - Salem, Massachusetts
A pretty short hike in all with a great view! If it weren't for the bugs in June it would have been perfect. Would definitely return in the Fall, I'm sure the colors are amazing!!!
9. Dunn State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
Reviewed By David P - Leominster, Massachusetts
This park is used mostly in the summer months. There is a nice swimming area for families. Small picnic area. Trails to walk or run on. Would recommend getting an annual pass if frequently in the area rather than purchasing a day pass. Our daughter and her family live nearby and we got them started with an annual pass a few years ago. Now they get one and take the grandkids there to cool off and burn off some energy.
10. The Crafty Cauldron
The Crafty Cauldron has yarn and notions. Wool, Alpaca, Acrylic, Hand-Dyed, and Hand-Spun yarns are all available. If you're looking for classes, then you have found the right place! Knitting, crochet, kid crafts, spinning, felting, and general crafts. If you have a project that you found on Pinterest we will work with you on setting up a class. We are also scheduling events!
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