Newburyport is one of my absolute favorite places to visit in New England for shopping, but of course, it has so much more to offer than that. It’s also a town that most tourists don’t know about, and is filled with amazing restaurants, a quaint atmosphere, beautiful beaches and nature trails on Plum Island, and wonderful parks.
To help you plan the perfect day or weekend in this lovely little city, this post is all about the best things to do in Newburyport, MA, as well as Plum Island. So let’s get started!
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Is Newburyport, MA Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! In fact, every time I show someone around Newburyport, they fall in love with it as much as I did during my first visit. While it’s a city, it feels more like a quaint little town, and has the cutest downtown area with tons of unique shops. Honestly, it feels like the set of a Hallmark movie.
And because it’s also waterfront, there are opportunities for boat tours, waterfront strolls and even whale watching tours.
Just a short drive from downtown you’ll find Plum Island, which is home to gorgeous beaches and stunning nature trails. Newburyport really has it all, which is why I’m continually surprised that it’s not a more popular destination.
Best Things To Do In Newburyport, MA
1. Visit The Shops In Market Square & Downtown
As mentioned already, the shops in Newburyport are where it’s at! 90% of the stores in downtown Newburyport are independent and unique, and offer a huge variety of things to look for including clothing, accessories, art, body and skin care, books and antiques. I don’t think I’ve ever been able to leave Newburyport without buying something because they have so many perfectly curated boutiques.
Market Square is the main hub in downtown Newburyport, and where you’ll find most of the shops and restaurants, as well as access to the waterfront walking path. Keep reading below for suggestions on my favorite stores to visit!
2. Shop Some More At Tannery Marketplace
Tannery Marketplace is a quick 5-minute walk from Market Square downtown, and Boston Magazine even named it one of the best shopping destinations on the North Shore. This amazing shopping plaza feels like a unique destination in and of itself, and is home to some of my favorite stores in town.
Not only will you find great shops here, it’s also home to some wonderful restaurants and cafes including Joppa Fine Foods and Brown Sugar by the Sea. And of course, don’t forget to stop in Chococoa Baking Company to pick up a drink to sip on while you shop, and also one of their famous whoopie pies (but they have all kinds of baked goods, too).
Best Shopping In Newburyport, MA
While I don’t think there’s a store in Newburyport I haven’t enjoyed, here are a few that I love to make an effort to visit each time I’m in the area:
- The Salty Whale
- Green House
- Face Food
- Salt & Grove
- Affamata
- Preppy Poppy
- Barn Home
- WishBasket
- A Pleasant Shop For Art
- Green Plum Vintage Goods
3. Explore Maudslay State Park
One of the most beautiful parks in Massachusetts is Maudslay State Park, which is just a 10-minute drive from Market Square. Home to 16 miles of trails to explore, it’s also a wonderful spot for a picnic, and to admire their gorgeous rose gardens.
I highly suggest you make a point to visit their 19th-century rose gardens in the summer season, and then hit up the nature trails. The entire park feels like a scene from a fairy tale, and is absolutely worth your time.
Pro Tip: Massachusetts residents only have to pay a $5 parking fee to visit the park, and out-of-state residents will want to expect a $20 entrance fee per vehicle (as prices as of 2023).
4. Take A Boat Tour
Cruise along Newburyport Harbor and the Merrimack River on a tour with Yankee Clipper! Offering a variety of tours, including sunset co*cktail tours, narrated history tours, and even excursions over to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, there’s an option for just about anyone.
Tours with Yankee Clipper depart right from the heart of the waterfront park, which is steps from Market Square, making it pretty easy to get there. As of 2023, prices start at $23 for tours, which is also an affordable way to see Newburyport from the water.
5. Head Out On A Whale Watch
Speaking of boat tours, did you know that you can also head out on a whale watch right from downtown Newburyport? Whale watches from here go out to either Jeffreys Ledge or Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, the latter of which is one of the top places for whale watching in North America! In fact, this is the same place that whale watches departing from Gloucester and Cape Cod venture to.
During the tour, you have a chance to see seals, dolphins, sharks, humpbacks, minkes and finbacks. If you have a pair, definitely bring binoculars to enhance your tour!
Pro Tip: Boat tours and whale watches only run seasonally from May through October, so plan accordingly.
6. Stroll Around The Waterfront Park
The waterfront park is an awesome way to enjoy scenic views from downtown Newburyport. At the park, you’ll find a boardwalk that runs along the water, boat launches, and lots of benches to just take a load off and enjoy the atmosphere. This is another great place to pack bring a picnic (or grab food from Tannery Marketplace).
But if you’re looking for an awesome meal overlooking the park, get a table at Sea Level, which has a great outdoor area with perfect views of the park and water.
Pro Tip: The waterfront park is very walkable from Market Square and Tannery Marketplace, so it’s not necessary to drive here. In fact, I recommend starting your day in Market Square, then walking along the waterfront park walking path to Tannery.
7. Hunt For Antiques
Newburyport is an awesome place if you’re on the hunt for some new-to-you antiques. Right by Market Square and the waterfront, you’ll find Oldies, which is packed with all kinds of cool things from the past.
I also really love Mill 77 Trading Company, which is a mix of new things and antiques, and the store is beautifully curated to feel inspiring.
In downtown Newburyport, Green Plum Vintage and WishBasket also feature a few antiques and found items in addition to their new items.
8. Have Dinner At The Top Of Newburyport Lighthouse
For an extra special occasion and a night you’ll definitely remember, you can actually rent out the top of Newburyport Lighthouse for dinner for up to 4 people (but it’s definitely the most romantic when it’s just you and your special someone).
While a bit pricey, it’s absolutely a unique experience that includes your own waitstaff, and the option to select which restaurant your catered dinner will come from. And, of course, you won’t be able to beat the view of Newburyport Harbor while you snuggle next to each other by candlelight.
9. Bike The Clipper City Rail Trail
Connecting the towns of Amesbury, Newbury, Newburyport and Salisbury is the 3.3-mile paved Clipper City Rail Trail, which is an awesome way to explore the area.
For both bikers and pedestrians, the path features local paintings and sculptures to admire along the way, and also connects the commuter rail stations to these towns, which is perfect for those coming in from Boston without a car.
10. Visit The Custom House Maritime Museum
It’s hard to walk by the Custom House Maritime Museum in Newburyport and not take notice. Largely because its housed in a stunning former courthouse building, and also because of the two giant red and white striped buoys at the entrance.
There’s so much maritimes history along the entire North Shore region, and the Custom House does an awesome job with exhibits that illustrate this fascinating time. The museum is also worth visiting just to see the beautiful architecture inside the building, since it was built in the 1830s.
11. See Bartlet Mall
Bartlet Mall is a beautiful park that’s only a 10-minute walk from Market Square, and the frog pond with the Superior Court building in the background is one of the most photographed parts of the city. In fact, this courthouse is one of the oldest active courthouses in the entire U.S.
There are some really lovely and serene walking paths around the park that offer the perfect way to relax during your visit, and throughout the year, Bartlet Mall is the location of some of the town’s annual celebrations.
One that’s especially fun to experience is the Newburyport Lantern Festival, which takes place around Labor Day and is in observance of National Ovarian Cancer Month. During the festival, participants will decorate and light lanterns, and send them out onto Frog Pond for a truly special evening.
Things To Do On Plum Island
Many people have heard of Plum Island while researching things to do in New England, but most don’t realize that it’s actually part of Newburyport. In fact, Plum Island is just a few miles from downtown Newburyport and Market Square, making it very easy to see both in just a day – especially since Plum Island is only about 11 miles long.
Below is my list of all the most fun things to do when you venture over to Plum Island!
12. Explore The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
By and far my favorite thing to do on Plum Island is visit the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. Spanning over 4,700 acres, most of which are stunning salt marshes, and home to over 300 species of wildlife, Parker River is not just a cool place to explore, but also has some incredibly scenic nature trails to enjoy.
One of my favorite things to do in the park is the Hellcat Boardwalk Trail, which sounds intense and daunting, right? But don’t worry, it’s actually pretty easy. This boardwalk trail is only a little over half a mile long, and takes you through the salt marshes, and to beach overlooks to see some of the prettiest parts of the park. It also connects to other boardwalk trails in the park.
But since that trail is so short, you’ll have plenty of time to explore all the other trails, the beach, and observe wildlife along the main road (which is only about 6 miles long).
13. Plum Island Beach
At the very tip of Plum Island, you’ll find Plum Island Beach, which offers a beautiful stretch of soft sand and gorgeous shoreline. You can really have the perfect New England beach day here in the summer season! And during spring and fall, it makes for a wonderful stroll along the shore.
In the summer, bathroom facilities are available, and there are about 150 parking spots. They can fill up fast during peak season, especially on weekends, so I always suggest you arrive early, or plan to visit in the late afternoon.
14. See The Famous Pink House
A quirky little stop to make while exploring Plum Island is the famous Pink House. And while you can’t really get too close to it, and you definitely can’t go inside, it’s become a landmark of the island over the years.
The Pink House has a strange history, and was actually built in the 1920s out of spite during a messy divorce. Rumor has it that when the couple was getting divorced, the wife stipulated that she wanted a replica built of their home they once shared together. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a location specified, and the husband built the house on a salt marsh, which makes it completely uninhabitable.
Now, this is all hearsay, and no parts of the story can be corroborated with actual facts. In fact, the town’s historians have their own, less embellished version of events on the Pink House website. But one thing’s for sure – it definitely has a colorful history!
Today, the house is abandoned, but beloved by the local community. Over the years, it’s been in jeopardy of being torn down, but has been eventually saved by the Support the Pink House organization. Currently, it’s owned by the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, and as of 2023, there are various plans in discussion for its long-term home on the island.
Pro Tip: The Pink House can easily be seen shortly after entering Plum Island on the main turnpike. It also shows up in Google Maps simply as “The Pink House,” so it’s very easy to find. Please be aware that you cannot park on the side of the road to admire it, and you’ll likely only be able to see it as you drive by.
15. Shop At Plum Island Soaps
If you’ve been exploring New England for a bit, you’ve likely seen Plum Island Soaps in various boutiques all over. But you can shop at their flagship store on Plum Island, where they were created!
What started as a home-based business has now grown into what it is today, and the cute little cottage flagship store on Plum Island is definitely worth a stop. Famous for their incredible, all-natural soaps, as well as their trademarked “Man Can,” you’ll also find tons more here like lotions, scrubs, baby products, skincare and more.
I love this little shop and encourage you to shop local and swing by during your visit!
16. Plum Island Lighthouse
Located right by Plum Island Beach, stopping by the lighthouse is pretty easy and definitely worth it if you enjoy lighthouses (like I do!).
Plum Island Lighthouse was built in 1898, and while interior tours aren’t regularly offered to climb to the top, they do occasionally open to the public. Be sure to click here to find out more information.
Even if you’re not able to tour the inside of the lighthouse, visitors can walk right up to it year-round.
17. Get A Lobster Roll At Bob Lobster
Not only will you find an awesome lobster roll here at Bob Lobster, they also serve up everything from lobster dinners and fried seafood platters, to specialty lobster rolls and chowders. They also have a nice outdoor seating area that overlooks the marshes (it’s actually right across the street from The Pink House!).
Pro Tip: Bob Lobster is a seasonal restaurant, and runs on more limited hours in the spring and fall season, and is closed in the winter. Be sure to check out their website or social media pages for updates on hours before visiting.
Can You Walk To Plum Island From Newburyport?
Actually, yes! To walk from Market Square in downtown Newburyport to the start of Plum Island (around Bob Lobster and The Pink House), it’s about 2.5 miles. And, most (if not all) of that walk has a sidewalk for pedestrians. So, if you’re looking to get your steps in for the day, this is a nice way to do it.
However, even though Plum Island is pretty small, I still do recommend a car or bike to get around if you want to see as much of it as possible, as you’ll spend a lot of time trying to get to and from Newburyport/Plum Island by walking.
Things To Do In Newburyport In The Fall
The fall is one of my favorite times to explore Newburyport as the town is filled with foliage color, and the weather is so perfect. Below is my list of things to do in Newburyport that are specific to the fall season!
18. Stock Up At Cider Hill Farm
While technically located in Amesbury, Cider Hill Farm is only 15 minutes outside of Newburyport, and is the perfect farm stand to visit in the fall season. In fact, it’s one of my favorites in all of Massachusetts!
You’ll find everything you need for the fall season here, including tons of pumpkins to choose from, a cozy farm store and market that has a general store feel to it, fresh apple cider, local products and foods, cider donuts, caramel apples, housewares – I mean, it really has everything (including stuff you didn’t know you needed!).
19. Attend Oysterfest In The Port
Typically the first weekend of October brings Oysterfest to Newburyport, and this is a really fun time to visit! Oysters are available to sample from farms all over New England, and the event also has craft beer and wine pairings available.
Oysterfest also features live music, other foods available for tasting (poke bowls and seaweed to name a few!), and a learn-to-shuck station so that you can become an oyster shucking pro.
20. Experience Pumpkin Palooza and Oktoberfest
Later in October, Newburyport holds its annual Oktoberfest and Pumpkin Palooza for the perfect fall weekend. You’ll find beers, food trucks, pretzels, family-friendly fun, craft vendors, live music and lots more!
During the Pumpkin Palooza event, Market Square is filled with carved and lit pumpkins for all the Halloween vibes you’re looking for. There’s even a custom parade for the kids, and lots of other kid-friendly events throughout the day.
Things To Do In Newburyport, MA In The Winter
As much as I love fall in Newburyport, winter is also a fun time to visit, especially if you can swing by in December for all the holiday decorations. Below is my list of all the festive and fun things to do in the winter season.
21. Enjoy The Christmas Festivities & Holiday Shopping
Not only does December bring the Santa Parade and annual tree lighting in Market Square, this is one of the best places to check things off your Christmas shopping list. Since Newburyport is known as such an amazing shopping destination, why not shop small at all the lovely boutiques while enjoying picture-perfect decorations downtown?
Hot chocolate from Chococoa Bakery isn’t required for your shopping trip, but most definitely recommended 🙂
Click here to read my list of the best Christmas towns in New England!
22. Ring In New Year’s At A Party Or Special Dinner
Since Newburyport’s restaurant scene is also wonderful, there are plenty of events and special dinner experiences to be had around the city to help you ring in the New Year.
The Plum Island Beachcoma is one of the most popular spots to party on New Year’s. In addition to a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, they also have fun decorations, a live DJ, awesome food and a very fun atmosphere.
Other restaurants and bars to check out for a fun New Year’s night are Blue Ocean, Bar 25, Seaglass, Sea Level and Plum Island Grille.
23. Hit The Ice
For a fun winter day of ice skating, there are two places where you can hit the ice in Newburyport: Frog Pond at Bartlet Mall, and the Henry Graf Jr. Memorial Skating Rink. Frog Pond transitions to a lovely outdoor skating rink when weather conditions are right (be sure to check that it’s safe to head out before making a special trip!).
And of course, the indoor Memorial Skating rink is a sure thing, with lots of public skate times available.
To visit Frog Pond, you’ll need your own skates, but rentals are available at at the Memorial rink.
24. Go Snowshoeing At Maudslay State Park
In the colder months, Maudslay State Park is open for winter adventure, and it’s one of the best things to do in Massachusetts in the winter! While snowshoeing is an awesome option to explore the trails, it’s also open for those looking to simply hike through the snow.
If you’re looking for a full day of snowshoeing adventures, you can also drive 20 minutes to nearby Ipswich and visit Appleton Farms, which rents out snowshoes and has even more scenic trails to explore – including groomed cross-country ski trails.
25. Sip On Hot Chocolate At Chococoa Baking Co. & Cafe
I know I mention Chococoa a lot, but I have no regrets because it’s such a fun little bakery and cafe to visit while in Newburyport! And especially in the winter season, a hot chocolate and whoopie pie just feels so perfect, right?
During the month of December, they have an awesome hot chocolate menu with a variety of flavor options, and in February for Valentine’s Day, they have a pretty awesome Love You A Latte beverage with notes of chocolate and raspberry.
And, of course, you have to get a whoopie pie when you stop by. They decorate them seasonally, and offer the traditional (and perfect) chocolate and vanilla flavor combination.
26. Pamper Yourself With A Massage
I always feel like massages are just more appreciated in the winter months, when the chilly days are all about self-care and slowing down a bit. Newburyport has so many options for massage therapy as the ultimate way to treat yourself on a cold day.
A few places you can check out are:
- Elements Massage
- Sole to Soul Foot Spa
- Sacred Tree Massage & Reiki
- Massage Only
Things To Do Near Newburyport, MA
After a perfect day in Newburyport, you may be wondering what’s nearby that’s worth visiting, and I have you covered! Here are all my favorite things to do near Newburyport to help you plan an amazing getaway.
27. Take A Day Trip To Salem
If you’re visiting in the fall season, you’ll definitely want to tack on Salem to your trip to Newburyport! The month of October is when their Haunted Happenings events take place, and there are so many fun and exciting spooky tours to go on that’ll definitely put you in the Halloween spirit.
But honestly, Salem is awesome year-round, too. I’ve been in every season except for winter, and there’s so much history and charm at every turn that it really is worth visiting during any month. The Essex Peabody Museum is incredible, and Salem is also home to two lighthouses. And of course, the spooky tours run year-round to get the full Salem experience!
Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip, and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information 😉
28. Explore Portsmouth, NH
Just 30 minutes north of Newburyport is the gorgeous city of Portsmouth in New Hampshire. It actually feels a lot like Newburyport with a charming downtown shopping district and lovely waterfront park. This is another perfect place to do a bit of shopping, learn about the local history, and have a fabulous meal.
29. Spend The Day In Rockport
One of my most favorite coastal towns in New England is Rockport, and it’s so picturesque, it’s home to the most painted building in the country, and has also been in a few movies! It’s also less than an hour from Newburyport, making it a very easy side excursion to take during your trip.
If you’re looking for a quaint little coastal day trip that feels very unique, but also very New England, Rockport is the place to go. You’ll find cute shops here, nature trails at the state park, the most adorable little ice cream shack, and so much beautiful scenery that you’ll find yourself snapping pictures every step you take.
Click here to read my guide on all the best things to do in Rockport!
30. Meander Through Marblehead
Just a bit south of Salem is Marblehead, and this is one of my favorite towns in Massachusetts. Because it’s often overlooked by those looking to head to Salem, it’s not a huge tourist destination, but it’s so lovely. There are lots of historic houses, a cute little shopping area, great restaurants, a gorgeous park with a lighthouse and more!
Because both Salem and Marblehead can easily be seen in a few hours, you can definitely do both in a day trip from Newburyport, too.
Click here to read my guide on all the best things to do in Marblehead!
31. Spend The Day At Crane Beach
If it’s more beaches you’re after, then I highly suggest visiting nearby Ipswich and heading to Crane Beach at the Crane Estate. This beach is one of the most beautiful along the North Shore region, and you can make a day of it by combining it with a tour through the Crane Estate property (a gorgeous mansion with nature trails!).
Throughout Ipswich, there are some other wonderful beaches to check out, too, including Sandy Point State Reservation and Steep Hill.
Best Places To Stay In Newburyport, MA
Depending on the type of stay you’re looking for, I recommend checking out two places.
Best place to stay right in town: The Compass Rose Inn
- Walkable to everything, including Market Square, The Tannery Marketplace and the Waterfront Park.
- Cozy, New England federal-style mansion.
- Homemade, deluxe continental breakfast served daily.
- Off-street parking included.
- Most rooms are suites with working fireplaces.
Click here to check out the Compass Rose Inn!
Best place to stay on Plum Island: Blue – Inn On The Beach
- Ocean-front hotel in a dreamy setting!
- Modern and airy style furnishings which feels like a true retreat.
- Rooms with balconies, ocean views and fireplaces available.
- Tapas breakfast delivered to your door each morning!
- Free parking.
Click here to check out Blue – Inn On The Beach!
Tips For Visiting Newburyport
Is Newburyport, MA Walkable?
Yes! Newburyport is very walkable. If you’re exploring Market Square, Tannery Marketplace, the Waterfront Park or Custom House Maritime Museum, all of that is easily walkable. The only time you’ll want to use your car is to possibly go to Plum Island (which is walkable from downtown as mentioned earlier, but you may want to drive).
Does Newburyport Have Public Bathrooms?
Yep! You can find public bathrooms in Tannery Marketplace, as well as at the Harbormaster’s office at the Waterfront Park.
Water Bottle Refill Station In Newburyport
Bring your reusable water bottle with you because Tannery Marketplace has a water bottle refill station right by the bathrooms near the Wishbasket and Chococoa store entrances.
Where To Park In Newburyport
Most of Newburyport parking is paid metered parking, but there are a few places where street parking is free. There are also plenty of paid parking lots. When paying for parking at a meter, I highly suggest putting your cell number in when it asks. This will enable texting updates when you’re about to run out of time, and you can add more time to your meter from your phone without having to walk back to your car.
For information on where to find convenient parking, check out this website.
Best Time To Visit Newburyport
Newburyport is honestly wonderful year-round, so it just depends on what type of getaway you’re after.
Summer is perfect if you’re planning a beach getaway on Plum Island.
I also love the fall season for a lovely autumn afternoon of shopping (and to visit Cider Hill!). In fact, I listed it as one of the best places to visit in fall in Massachusetts.
And of course, December is magical and feels like the set of a Hallmark movie with all the Christmas decor.
What Is Newburyport, MA Known For?
Newburyport is known for having one of the best and most unique shopping scenes in New England, as well as Plum Island, which has beautiful beaches to explore.
Other posts you may find helpful:
- Things To Do In Cape Ann
- Should You Visit Cape Cod or Cape Ann On Your Next Trip?
- Best Day Trips In New England
- Best Stops To Make When Driving Boston To Portland, Maine
- Best Beach Towns In New England
- Gorgeous New England Islands Worth Visiting
That’s A Wrap On Things To Do In Newburyport, MA
And there you have it! Now that you know all the very best things to do in Newburyport, MA, hopefully you see why this is one of the most beautiful stops to make along the North Shore. Whether you’re after amazing shopping, or are hoping to hit up the beach, Newburyport most definitely checks all the boxes for a perfect New England getaway.
