Fall Fun in Lawrence, MA

Lawrence, Massachusetts was built in the 1840s and is known as the nation’s first planned industrial city. Today, it’s a hub for businesses, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t still fun things to do when you visit this fall.

Stay Close to the Action

If you’re planning to get away for the weekend, the first thing you need is a hotel in your budget. Reserve a room at the Holiday Inn Express Andover / Lawrence for comfortable accommodations and great amenities. Start off your day with a complimentary hot breakfast buffet, use the free, high-speed Wi-Fi to plan out your day, then hit the city. 

Get Outdoors

If you’re a nature lover, Den Walk Park is the park for you. This 120-acre preserves woodlands in the densely developed and industrial city of Lawrence. It’s a recreational hub for the area that includes walking trails, a granite rock face perfect for climbing, scenic overlooks, and access to the Shawsheen River. It’s no wonder this park attracts hundreds of visitors throughout the year, with fall being especially ideal before you’ll be stuck inside for months.

Art of Lawrence

Lawrence is a multicultural hub, and that shows in its art scene. You’ll find works in all kinds of styles with a wide range of cultural influences.

Murals at 151 Essex Street

If you think a city is only industrial and gray, you need to visit 151 Essex Street to view the beautiful murals. Created by the Essex Art Center, they’re part of a series of walkable outdoor murals throughout the North of Boston region. They bring a pop of color to any visit, and they’re free for the public to view.

Essex Art Center

Art lovers should absolutely plan a visit to the Essex Art Center. Its mission is to inspire and sustain the growth and learning of artists of all ages. It succeeds at this by offering classes, exhibitions, and events to all who wish to experience the arts. When you visit, you’ll see anything from cultural exhibitions to performance artists to galleries full of paintings. With a rotating exhibition schedule, there’s always something new to experience and appreciate from the talented local artists.

Eat Like a Local

No vacation is complete without delicious food, and Lawrence has some incredible local eateries and shops to choose from. 

Claddagh Pub

If you’re looking for a place with great food, drinks, and entertainment, Claddagh Pub is for you. This Irish sports bar features 36 beers on tap, live bands every weekend, karaoke or a DJ every Thursday, trivia every Wednesday, and of course a full menu. Plan a night out with friends and share homemade beer-battered onion rings, banshee nachos, and tostones. Or you can order individual entrees to enjoy, like quesadillas, Guinness beef stew, burgers, and steak tips.

Fisichelli’s Pastry Shop, Inc. 

For dessert or just a sweet treat, head over to Fisichelli’s Pastry Shop, Inc. This family-run, Italian bakery has been providing Lawrence with handmade pastries since 1915. They offer over 30 varieties of cookies, vanilla and chocolate pasticiottis, cannolis, biscotti, and cakes for all occasions. Remember, calories don’t count when you’re on vacation, so feel free to indulge in true Italian desserts.

Lawrence is full of fun and exciting things to do if you know where to look. Start planning your next vacation this fall and experience this amazing city while enjoying the cool New England weather.