Life on the North Shore- Pt 2
The North Shore simply can’t be beat! With fabulous seafood, culture, beaches, and plenty to do and see, you can’t go wrong. Here are the second group of North Shore Massachusetts cities and towns. If you missed Part I, you can check it out, here.
Manchester-by-the-Sea
Many may recognize Manchester-by-the-Sea by the film of the same name, but there is a lot more to this seaside town than just a Hollywood blockbuster. Known for its classic New England homes perched along rocky shorelines with gorgeous ocean views, Manchester-by-the-Sea is the ideal home base for those looking for the perfect combination of charm and luxury.
Spend the day at Singing Beach and bring a snack from The Laughing Gull Cafe, or take an ocean journey with Frayed Knot Sailing Charters. If you are visiting on a bad weather day, you can just drive around and look at the beautiful houses on the ocean!
Gloucester
When many think of “coastal New England,” Gloucester is the first town that comes to mind. From picturesque seascapes, quarries, lighthouses, lobster boats, and more, Gloucester is one of the most beautiful towns on the North Shore. One of the first established colonial settlements on the North Shore, Gloucester is now the perfect location for locals and visitors alike.
If you are visiting Gloucester, we recommend going on a Cape Ann Whale Watch followed by a meal at Seaport Grille! Wingaersheek and Good Harbor Beach are must-see spots for those who love the beach. If you are more interested in nature walks, Dogtown has miles of beautiful trails, charming woods, giant boulders, and rock formations left behind from melted glaciers.
Hamilton-Wenham
While these two towns may be separated on the map these neighboring towns are simply known as Hamilton-Wenham to the locals. This area is ideal to watch the leaves change in the fall, and although it does not have its own beaches it is just a short drive to the ocean.
Hamilton-Wenham is home to Myopia Polo Club, the oldest polo club in America! The Chebacco Woods Trails near Gordon College are some of my absolute favorites if you like going for a scenic stroll. Once you’re done, grab a cozy dinner at Weathervane Tavern with your family to round out the perfect day in Hamilton-Wenham.
Ipswich
Just north of Hamilton-Wenham and south of Newbury, Ipswich Massachusetts is the perfect Northshore town to explore in any season! Whether you are interested in walking its expansive nature trails, lounging on the beach, antiquing, or eating a lobster roll with a view, Ipswich is a perfect town for summer activities. In the fall, its many farms provide apple and pumpkin picking, hayrides, and beautiful views of the changing leaves.
If you only have one day to spend in Ipswich, I would most highly recommend Castle Hill on the Crane Estate. The Trustees offer guided tours through the Great House, as well as events and concerts on the beautiful rolling lawn. You may recognize it from movies such as Witches of Eastwick or Little Women (2019)!
Rockport
Rockport is potentially the most quintessential coastal New England town there is! Located just past Gloucester, it is one of the best places to spend the day on the Northshore. Rockport is a magnificent spot for art, shopping, seafood, and gorgeous views.
The town may be best known for Motif No. 1, a small red fishing shack that is widely considered to be the most painted building in the United States! If you spend the day in Rockport, be sure to snap a picture once you are finished shopping and eating your way through Bearskin Neck.
Newburyport
Newburyport is known for its history, vibrant downtown area, and hometown spirit. If you are planning a visit during the summertime, try to schedule it around Yankee Homecoming, a multi-day celebration of community featuring art walks, lawn games, parades, and fireworks! If you are looking to shop, The Tannery is an indoor marketplace with dozens of stores for fine foods, home goods, and even a specialty bakery for dog treats. We recommend the waterfront walk to get your steps in, and make sure that you don’t miss the historic Plum Island Lighthouse!
When it comes to choosing a town to live in on the North Shore, you simply can’t go wrong! The views, history, and sense of community can be felt in every single one of these towns. Read more by clicking on the town names, and be sure to check out Part I of Life on the Northshore if you missed it. If you are interested in buying or selling a home on the North Shore, contact me today!
