North of Boston summer is packed with opportunities to get outside, explore charming coastal towns, and indulge in farm/sea to table fare!
The waters off Gloucester are among the best whale-watching destinations in New England. Summer brings humpback, fin, and minke whales close to shore, creating unforgettable excursions for families, photographers, and nature lovers alike. Seeing a whale breach against the backdrop of the Atlantic is a quintessential North Shore experience. We love Cape Ann Whale Watch and 7 Seas Whale Watch out of Gloucester.
Photo Credit: Amanda Johnston
While Salem is best known for October, summer is one of the most enjoyable times to visit. Explore the waterfront, tour historic sites, browse unique and eclectic local shops, and enjoy dining alfresco. Don’t miss the outdoor walkable Punto Urban Art Museum to view incredible murals or the famous Salem Witch Museum and Peabody Essex Museum.
Few places capture the beauty of the North Shore quite like the Crane Estate. Spend the day relaxing on Crane Beach, exploring the mansion and walking trails at Castle Hill, then settle in for an outdoor summer concert overlooking the ocean. It’s the perfect combination of beach day and evening entertainment.
Essex is widely recognized as the birthplace of the fried clam. Spend an afternoon sampling this North Shore classic while exploring local seafood shacks, such as Woodman’s, serving lobster rolls, chowder, and freshly caught seafood. It’s a delicious way to experience one of the region’s most iconic culinary traditions. While here, don’t miss the Essex Shipbuilding Museum for impressive maritime history.
The seaside village of Rockport is filled with galleries, boutiques, and waterfront restaurants. The iconic Motif No. 1 Fishing Shack adorns the quaint harbor. Indulge in an ice cream cone at the adorable Ice Cream Store or feast on lobster rolls and chowder at one of the many mom and pop eateries.
Photo Credit: Addison Choate
At the northern tip of Cape Ann, Halibut Point offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Massachusetts. Built around a historic granite quarry, the park features easy walking trails, tide pools, rocky shoreline overlooks, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. On clear days, visitors can see for miles across the water, making it a favorite spot for photographers, hikers, and anyone looking to experience the rugged beauty of the North Shore.
Perched dramatically along the Gloucester shoreline, Hammond Castle Museum combines medieval-inspired architecture with fascinating stories of innovation and invention. Its oceanfront setting makes it one of the North Shore’s most distinctive attractions.
Spend a day farm hopping and berry picking on the North Shore, starting at Appleton Farms in Ipswich/Hamilton, where trails wind through open pastures at one of the oldest continuously operating farms in the U.S. Discover Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury, known for berry picking, apple orchards, cider donuts, and fresh seasonal produce. Check out Russell Orchards in Ipswich, where visitors can pick fruit, enjoy pies, cider, and even wine taste in a classic New England orchard setting. For an unforgettable farm-to-table experience, don’t miss Smolak Farms’ Whim Dinner Series in North Andover.
Summer nights become unforgettable during the seasonal full moon programs hosted by The Trustees. Depending on the property and date, visitors can join guided moonlit hikes through coastal landscapes or paddle beneath the glow of the full moon on quiet waterways. These special events offer a unique perspective on some of the North Shore’s most beautiful natural areas and provide an experience many locals look forward to each year.
Newburyport comes alive on summer evenings. Stroll along the waterfront, browse independent shops and antique stores, enjoy outdoor dining, and enjoy a Sunset Cocktail Cruise along the harbor. History comes alive at the Museum of Old Newbury and the Custom House Maritime Museum. Its blend of maritime history, walkability, and vibrant restaurant scene makes it one of the North Shore’s most charming destinations.
Now that you’ve read the prologue, it’s time to write your North of Boston story. From lighthouses and pirate lore to cider donuts and vibrant sunsets worth capturing, download the free guide and start planning your visit to North of Boston today.
