Just a few of our favorite day trips that can be enjoyed during your next visit to Beverly.
SALEM, MA
ATTRACTIONS
Head over the bridge to Salem, MA! Take a walk through historic Salem Willows Park to photograph the White Willow Trees planted there in 1801. This 35 acre property has 3 beaches and plenty of walking pathways with ocean views, plus a video arcade and outdoor theater! Don’t forget to grab a box of Hobb’s popcorn for the ride home (though we doubt it will last that long).
Visit the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) to explore their ever-changing art exhibitions. While you may be familiar with the main building in East India Square, the PEM owns 22 historic structures, including the infamous Ropes Mansion – featured in Hocus Pocus.
DRINKS
All Souls Lounge ($$)
Serving up vintage cocktails, specialty hot dogs, and gourmet grilled cheese; All Souls is not to be missed! They’ve got “the best juke and vinyl selections on the North Shore”, so take your pick of music and enjoy the evening. We recommend going early to ensure you can snag a table.
DINNER
Ledger Restaurant and Bar ($$$)
Interested in a unique dining experience? Ledger is located in the former Salem Savings Bank building (circa 1818). You’ll find a seasonal-centric menu created by Executive Chef Daniel Gursha. Though there’s a few staple items that always appear on the list, you can go back time and time again to try something new.
DESSERT
Goodnight Fatty ($$)
What started as a late night craving turned into one of the most iconic dessert spots in Salem, MA. The daily cookies (aka “Fatties”) are kept a secret until ordering, but let’s just say that ‘Pumpkin Spice Fatty’ and ‘Caramel ’n Chocolate Pretzel Fatty’ were recently on the menu…you can’t go wrong!
NEWBURYPORT, MA
ATTRACTIONS
Nature lovers will want to add Parker River National Wildlife Refuge to their Newburyport itinerary. With almost 5,000 acres, you can easily fill a day (or two) exploring the diverse landscapes and habitats. Though parking is available, the best way to take in the scenery is on bicycle!
If you’d rather wine and dine on your vacation, Taste Newburyport is a fantastic option. This tour is offered through Cape Ann Foodie Tours and provides patrons the chance to experience some favorite local treats. Since you’ll already be downtown, you’ll want to hit all of the shops before heading home!
DRINKS
The Sunset Club ($$)
Plum Island might be well-known for its beaches in the summer, but the sunsets are 10/10 year round. And, The Sunset Club is the best place to be! Sip on one of their frozen cocktails as you get your instagrammable shot of the cotton candy skies.
DINNER
Brown Sugar by the Sea ($$)
While Thai cuisine might not be top of mind when you think of coastal Massachusetts, Brown Sugar by the Sea is one of the best spots on the North Shore. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
DESSERT
Dolce Freddo Gelato ($)
This family owned business has been making small batches of gelato for 10+ years using equipment imported directly from Italy. As they’re open year-round, you’ll be able to sample some seasonal flavors like Gingerbread, Pumpkin, and Peppermint.
ROCKPORT, MA
ATTRACTIONS
Though the old Babson Farm Quarry at Halibut Point is often a stopping point for many, you’ll want to make sure to follow the path all the way down to the ocean. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Agamenticus which is located 81 miles away in Maine. Although the park is great for families, sunset is a popular time for a romantic walk with your loved one.
If you’re looking for a quintessential New England town, Rockport checks all of the boxes! The seaside village of Bearskin Neck is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. Not only is it home to the most painted building in the world (Motif #1), but you’ll also find a wide variety of shops and restaurants to explore. A lesser known, but equally as intriguing attraction, is The Paper House. You read that right, a house completely made of newspaper….mostly.
DRINKS
Feather and Wedge ($$)
Featuring a locally sourced menu and weekly drink specials, Feather and Wedge is the perfect spot to grab a cocktail and appetizer! The design is modern while paying homage to Rockport’s history as a quarry town.
DINNER
My Place by the Sea ($$$)
When in Rockport, eating with an oceanfront view is a must! Featured in more than eight publications, My Place by the Sea combines traditional New England seafood with New American cuisine.
DESSERT
The Ice Cream Store ($)
Your classic mom and pop ice cream shop overlooking Rockport’s Historic Old Harbor…need I say more?
ESSEX, MA
ATTRACTIONS
Cruise through the scenic salt marshes of Essex with Essex River Cruises and Charters. This is by far the best way to see some of the most beautiful views on the North Shore. The narrated tours will provide you with information about the town of Essex and all of the protected wildlife sanctuaries.
Referred to by some as “America’s Antique Capital,” Essex, Massachusetts is one of the North Shore’s hidden gems. With over 25 shops to peruse, we’ll be shocked if you don’t find a souvenir to bring home with you.
DRINKS
Great Marsh Brewing Co. ($$)
In the warmer months, you’ll want a table at their outdoor beer garden for breathtaking views of the Great Marsh. However, it’s always a good season for a world class beer. Great Marsh Brewing also has a wide selection of craft hard seltzers – pick a flavor from their list, or create your own mix!
DINNER
Woodman’s ($$)
Said to be the “Best Seafood in America” by Forbes magazine, Woodman’s will not disappoint. They’re known as the inventor of the first fried clam, and the family has used the same recipe for over 100 years (which is naturally gluten-free). On the busiest of days, a line can be seen around the corner…but we promise – it’s worth it!
DESSERT
Village Creamery ($)
If you haven’t caught on, ice cream is kind of a big deal for a New England summer. Village Creamery has 42 flavors, 18 toppings, and 5 sauces to choose from.
