NAVIGATING THE NORTHEAST: Get behind the wheel and explore
June 25, 2016
Posted by Barrett-Jackson
When it comes to enjoyable driving through historic towns, picturesque seaside vistas, rolling hills and fertile farmlands, the northeastern United States is a gem.
One such drive follows Connecticut’s Route 169 from Lisbon (just a 15-minute drive or so from Mohegan Sun) to the border with Massachusetts. Although it’s a short drive of just over 30 miles, it covers an amazing array of sights. The route takes you through Canterbury – offering a window into Connecticut’s early American past – and then into Brooklyn, a history buff’s dream. The town and its area known as Brooklyn Green are on the National Register of Historic Districts. Heading further north, you’ll pass large orchards before reaching the charming town of Pomfret. For the perfect ending, continue on to Woodstock (no, not that Woodstock), with its village green, an old burying ground, meeting house and many 18th-century homes.
The lighthouse at Stonington, Connecticut.
If it is seaside charms you seek, head south from Mohegan Sun – either by taking the speedier I-395/I-95 or the more leisurely CT-12 that parallels the Thames River to the east. Take time to stop in Mystic Seaport if you like, about 20 miles from Mohegan Sun. This is home to the nation’s leading maritime museum and four National Historic Landmark vessels, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship in the world. From Mystic, follow Route 1, a scenic coastal drive. Consider stopping at Saltwater Farm Vineyard for a unique Connecticut winery experience. Heading back east on Route 1, look for Main Street. Turn south to explore the town of Stonington (including an old lighthouse), or turn north for a tree-lined stretch that passes several grand historic homes that are wonderful examples of New England architecture. At the end of North Main Street, turn left to Pequot Trail (Route 234), which winds through beautiful countryside with some amazing vistas along the way.
The West Cornwall covered bridge.
For those who want to venture farther, there are several drives and destinations to consider. About two hours northwest of Mohegan Sun is Lime Rock Park near Salisbury – arguably the most significantly historic road racing circuit in North America. Just north of Lime Rock is The Berkshires in southwestern Massachusetts, a beautiful, scenic region surrounded by mountains that is a popular vacation destination. Head south of Lime Rock along US-7, which follows the serpentine course of the Housatonic River on a designated scenic road to the storybook village of West Cornwall, where you will find one of two covered bridges in Connecticut still open to automobile traffic.
Chances are, if you like Barrett-Jackson, you like to drive. Plan to spend a few extra days after the Northeast Auction to get behind the wheel and explore this picturesque and historic part of the country.
For up-to-date event information and the vehicles on the Northeast Auction docket, click HERE.