North of Boston, MA
North of Boston – home to Salem, Gloucester, Newburyport and so much more – is a fabulous destination for all things springtime fun with a vibrant local food scene.
The 34 cities and towns of Essex County are authentic New England experiences, each with their own character and charm. Located only minutes from Boston, we’re loaded with things to do: 200 miles of coastline and sandy beaches, world-class dining, rich history, vibrant arts and culture and nationally recognized attractions. From the salty air of Newburyport to the witches of Salem, the seafood of Gloucester to the industrial city of Lawrence, there is something for everyone!
The 90-mile/145k long Essex County Scenic Byway links 14 coastal communities and features breathtaking views with one-of-a-kind spots to be explored. Eat like a local and splurge on fresh lobster rolls and fried clams. Head to Beverly for their bustling craft beer scene, peruse unique shops on Cabot Street and end the evening with a show at North Shore Music Theatre. Hunt for murals in Lynn then find a hole-in-the-wall eatery highlighting a diverse array of culturally authentic hole-in-the-wall eateries ranging from noodle bars to taco shops.
For a bit of romance, enjoy a seaside serenade at the stunning Shalin Liu Center in Rockport. Salem’s Peabody Essex Museum will dazzle with extraordinary exhibitions. Head to Main Street in Andover for a delectable lunch and walk about town before heading to the Addison Gallery of American Art at Phillips Academy. For an outdoor shopping extravaganza, visit MarketStreet in Lynnfield.
Ready to celebrate Spring outdoors? Cider Hill Farm’s Tulip Fest is not to be missed the first two weekends of May. Enjoy blooming orchard walks, hard cider bars, free live music, food truck and fitness events, family activities, pop-up events and pick-your-own tulips. Picnic at a seaside garden at Lynch Park in Beverly or bike along one of the many rail trails that connect our communities. Stevens Coolidge House and Gardens in Andover will delight with their Spring Blooms event featuring nine display gardens with the exuberant colors of spring.
Indulge in an amazing selection of the freshest local seafood, mom & pop diners, and one of the most delightfully eclectic foodie scenes in New England! From lobster rolls to burgers, farm-fresh apple cider donuts to craft beers, North of Boston has something to satisfy every taste bud.
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Enjoy hors d’oeuvres harborside in Salem or Marblehead or watch the working waterfront from one of Gloucester’s iconic restaurants. Grab a cocktail and freshly shucked oysters on the half shell at the fabulous 1606 Restaurant & Oyster Bar at the Beauport Hotel, or feast on award-winning clam chowder and overflowing platters of fried seafood at Woodman’s of Essex (where the fried clam was invented!) Indulge in steamers, corn on the cob and potatoes at a classic lobster bake, or munch on a tasty lobster roll (butter or mayo? Your choice!).
Celebrate Spring’s awakening by traversing the regions’ many family friendly farms, farmstands and farmer’s markets. Amesbury, Ipswich and Andover farms are known for their cider donuts, hard cider, and orchard-fresh fruit wine. Get hoppy with craft beer in one of our many communities’ unique tasting rooms and breweries, several featuring live music or opportunities to bring your dog.
There’s endless things to do North of Boston in the Spring. Come visit us and discover what makes this region so special!
