Newbury MassachusettsATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Newbury, Massachusetts.
1. Newbury Beach
SCENIC COASTAL RETREAT
Newbury Beach offers visitors a tranquil coastal experience with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The sandy shores provide the perfect setting for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing during the warmer months. Families and nature enthusiasts alike appreciate the beach's natural beauty and relatively uncrowded atmosphere.
2. Tendercrop Farm
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Tendercrop Farm is a beloved local institution offering farm-fresh produce, meats, and baked goods year-round. Visitors can browse an impressive selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables grown right on the premises. The farm also features a garden center and opportunities to see some of the farm animals.
3. Old Town Hill
HISTORIC NATURE TRAILS
Old Town Hill presents hikers with well-maintained trails through diverse ecosystems including woodlands, salt marshes, and meadows. The hill offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastal areas from its summit. Nature enthusiasts can observe local wildlife and native plant species throughout the changing seasons.
4. Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm
HISTORIC 1690 ESTATE
Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm is a family-friendly National Historic Landmark featuring a 1690 manor house set on 230 acres. The site offers activities for visitors of all ages, combining historical exploration with outdoor enjoyment. Educational programs and special events throughout the year provide insights into the region's agricultural heritage and colonial life.
5. Plum Island Bridge
GATEWAY TO ISLAND PARADISE
Plum Island Bridge serves as the iconic connection between mainland Newbury and the natural beauty of Plum Island. The bridge offers spectacular views of the surrounding marshlands and waterways as visitors cross over to the island. Photographers often stop here to capture the scenic vistas of boats, wildlife, and dramatic skies.
6. Newbury Salt Marsh
PRISTINE COASTAL ECOSYSTEM
Newbury Salt Marsh presents visitors with a stunning example of New England's coastal wetland ecosystems. The extensive marsh system supports diverse wildlife including numerous bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Walking trails and observation points allow visitors to immerse themselves in this delicate natural environment.
7. Plum Island Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME BEACON
Plum Island Lighthouse stands as a significant historical landmark overlooking the scenic Plum Island Sound. Originally built in 1788 as a wooden structure, it was later replaced with a more durable brick tower in 1898 that still stands today. The lighthouse has played a crucial role in guiding ships and ensuring safe navigation along the Atlantic coastline for centuries.
8. Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
COASTAL WILDLIFE HAVEN
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 4,700 acres of diverse coastal habitats on Plum Island. The refuge provides critical habitat for migratory birds and offers visitors miles of trails for wildlife viewing and photography. Beach areas, when open, allow for swimming and sunbathing in a pristine natural setting.
9. Clipper City Rail Trail
SCENIC URBAN PATHWAY
The Clipper City Rail Trail offers a picturesque paved pathway through Newburyport, adjacent to Newbury. This multi-use trail features public art installations, gardens, and scenic views of the Merrimack River. Visitors can walk, bike, or jog along this well-maintained corridor that connects various parts of the city.
10. Harbor Walk
WATERFRONT PROMENADE EXPERIENCE
Harbor Walk provides a charming waterfront promenade with stunning views of the Merrimack River and Newburyport's bustling harbor. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, watching boats come and go while enjoying the fresh sea air. The walk connects to numerous restaurants, shops, and historic sites in downtown Newburyport.
11. Maudslay State Park
HISTORIC ESTATE GARDENS
Maudslay State Park encompasses 450 acres of rolling meadows, gardens, and forests along the Merrimack River. Once a grand estate, the park features 19th-century gardens, ornamental trees, and stone bridges scattered throughout its landscape. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and seasonal programs in this peaceful natural setting.
12. Michael's Harborside
WATERFRONT SEAFOOD DINING
Michael's Harborside offers premier waterfront dining with panoramic views of the Merrimack River and Newburyport Harbor. The restaurant specializes in fresh local seafood including lobster, clams, and fish caught daily by New England fishermen. Outdoor seating on the deck provides a perfect setting for enjoying summer evenings and watching boats sail by.
13. The Tannery Marketplace
ARTISAN SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Tannery Marketplace houses a collection of unique shops, restaurants, and boutiques in a renovated historic building. Visitors can browse handcrafted items, specialty foods, clothing, and art created by local artisans and entrepreneurs. The charming brick courtyard often hosts events, making it a cultural hub for the community.
14. Custom House Maritime Museum
NAVAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Custom House Maritime Museum showcases Newburyport's rich maritime heritage in a Federal-style building dating to 1835. Exhibits feature artifacts, ship models, paintings, and interactive displays highlighting the area's shipbuilding tradition and seafaring history. The museum offers educational programs and special events that bring the region's nautical past to life.
15. Plum Island Beach
PRISTINE COASTAL SANCTUARY
Plum Island Beach stretches for miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering one of the most pristine beach experiences in New England. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, fishing, and beachcombing along its unspoiled shoreline. The beach's protected status within the wildlife refuge ensures a natural setting where shorebirds and coastal wildlife can often be observed.