The North Shore of Massachusetts offers a variety of exciting activities for locals and visitors alike. This coastal region has something for everyone, from stunning beaches and scenic hiking trails to historic sites and unique cultural experiences. Whether looking for adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly fun, here are the 35 best activities on the North Shore.
Explore Salem’s Historic Sites
Salem is famous for its witch trials, but there’s much more to discover. Visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the trials, or tour the House of the Seven Gables for a literary experience. Walking through the town’s historic streets is like stepping back in time.
Visit Crane Beach
Crane Beach in Ipswich is one of the most beautiful beaches in Massachusetts. The soft sand and calm waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding trails in the Crane Wildlife Refuge for some quiet nature time.
Stroll Through Rockport’s Bearskin Neck
Bearskin Neck in Rockport is charming, with unique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. Stroll along the rocky coastline and take in the stunning views, or stop at one of the local cafés for a bite.
Discover Halibut Point State Park
Visit Halibut Point State Park in Rockport for breathtaking ocean views and scenic hiking. The park’s rocky cliffs and former granite quarry provide a picturesque backdrop for a peaceful day of hiking, birdwatching, or picnicking.
Explore Gloucester’s Fishing Heritage
Gloucester is known for its rich fishing history, and you can explore this heritage by visiting the Gloucester Fishermen’s Memorial and the Cape Ann Museum. You can also take a whale-watching tour to see the majestic marine life off the coast.
Take a Trip to Plum Island
Plum Island, located near Newburyport, is a barrier island known for its pristine beaches and abundant wildlife. Spend the day exploring the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, where you can spot migratory birds and other wildlife or enjoy a day on the sandy shores.
Hike the Trails at Ravenswood Park
Ravenswood Park in Gloucester offers over 600 acres of woodland and coastal views, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. It’s an excellent spot for nature lovers, with miles of trails that wind through forests, marshes, and ridges.
Visit the Peabody Essex Museum
The Peabody Essex Museum in Salem is one of the oldest continuously operating museums in the United States. It houses an impressive collection of art and cultural objects worldwide. Explore exhibits that range from maritime art to Asian artifacts.
Discover the Essex Shipbuilding Museum
The Essex Shipbuilding Museum highlights the area’s long-standing tradition of building wooden ships. Take a guided tour to learn about the craftsmanship behind these vessels and the maritime history of the North Shore.
Walk the Lynn Shore & Nahant Beach Reservation
This scenic stretch of beach and shoreline is perfect for walking, jogging, or relaxing. With panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and plenty of space for picnics, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely day outdoors.
Go Whale Watching in Gloucester
Whale-watching tours from Gloucester offer a chance to see humpback, minke, and fin whales, among others. These tours take you to the sea for an unforgettable experience with some of the ocean’s largest inhabitants.
Visit Castle Hill on the Crane Estate
Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich is a stunning mansion overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Tour the grand estate, stroll through the gardens, and take in the sweeping views from the hilltop.
Enjoy a Day at Good Harbor Beach
Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester is a popular spot for swimming and boogie boarding. The beach’s clear waters and soft sand make it a favorite among families, and at low tide, you can walk out to Salt Island.
Explore the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
The Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary offers miles of trails through forests, meadows, and wetlands. Paddle along the Ipswich River or hike the trails to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Visit the Hammond Castle Museum
The Hammond Castle Museum in Gloucester is a medieval-style castle built by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr. Tour the unique architecture, including secret passages and grand halls, while learning about Hammond’s contributions to science and engineering.
Take a Scenic Drive Along Route 127
Route 127 offers one of the most scenic drives on the North Shore. The coastal road takes you through charming towns like Beverly, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Gloucester, offering stunning ocean views and surrounding landscapes.
Explore Maudslay State Park
Maudslay State Park in Newburyport is a peaceful retreat with gardens, meadows, and walking paths. The park is lovely in the spring and fall when the flowers bloom or the leaves change color.
Visit the North Shore Music Theatre
Located in Beverly, the North Shore Music Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway-style musicals, concerts, and children’s shows. It’s a great place to enjoy live entertainment in an intimate setting.
Take a Lobster Boat Tour
Experience the North Shore’s maritime tradition firsthand by taking a lobster boat tour in Gloucester or Rockport. Learn about lobster fishing and enjoy the thrill of pulling up traps to see what the sea offers.
Visit the Saugus Iron Works
The Saugus Iron Works is a National Historic Site that tells the story of America’s first ironworks. The reconstructed blast furnace, forge, and waterwheel offer a glimpse into colonial industry and technology.
Explore Salem Maritime National Historic Site
Salem Maritime National Historic Site looks into the city’s maritime history. Stroll along the waterfront, visit historic homes, and learn about Salem’s role as a central shipping hub during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Visit the Custom House Maritime Museum
Located in Newburyport, the Custom House Maritime Museum explores the city’s seafaring past. The museum offers exhibits on shipbuilding, privateering, and Newburyport’s role in American maritime history.
Enjoy Apple Picking at Russell Orchards
Russell Orchards in Ipswich is a great spot for a family-friendly day of apple picking in the fall. The farm also offers hayrides, fresh cider, and delicious homemade pies.
Go Kayaking on the Ipswich River
The Ipswich River is perfect for a peaceful day of kayaking or canoeing. Paddle through quiet waters surrounded by natural beauty and watch for wildlife along the riverbanks.
Walk Through Bradley Palmer State Park
Bradley Palmer State Park in Topsfield offers beautiful walking trails through forests and meadows. The park by the Ipswich River is excellent for a leisurely hike or a relaxing picnic.
Explore the Newburyport Boardwalk
The Newburyport Boardwalk is a scenic walkway along the Merrimack River. With shops, restaurants, and beautiful water views, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon strolling and dining.
Visit the Wenham Museum
The Wenham Museum in Wenham is dedicated to preserving the history of childhood, family life, and local heritage. Exhibits include antique toys, textiles, dollhouses, and interactive displays for children.
Take a Tour of Cogswell’s Grant
Cogswell’s Grant in Essex is a historic farmstead and museum featuring American folk art and artifacts. The property offers guided tours of the 18th-century house and surrounding fields.
Enjoy a Sunset at Singing Beach
Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea is famous for its unique sand, which emits a singing sound when walking on it. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy a sunset or relax by the water.
Visit the Essex River
The Essex River offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic cruises. Take a guided river tour to learn about the area’s ecology and history, or rent a kayak for an independent adventure.
Visit Marblehead’s Historic Harbor
Marblehead’s picturesque harbor is lined with historic homes and boats. Stroll along the waterfront or explore the town’s quaint streets filled with shops and restaurants.
Walk the Salem Witch Trials Memorial
The Salem Witch Trials Memorial honors the victims of the infamous 1692 trials. The peaceful site is located in downtown Salem and offers a place for reflection.
Attend the Topsfield Fair
The Topsfield Fair is the oldest agricultural fair in the United States. Each fall, it features livestock shows, concerts, carnival rides, and delicious fair food.
Take a Trip to Baker’s Island Lighthouse
Baker’s Island Lighthouse offers summer tours off Salem’s coast. A boat ride will take you to the island, where you can explore the historic lighthouse and enjoy ocean views.