Posts

Hidden Gems of the North Shore: Underrated Locations Worth Exploring in Ipswich

The North Shore of Massachusetts is a region full of character and history with an abundance of places to visit and explore. With its breathtaking views and lively downtown, Ipswich is a New England town you will want to visit. Let’s explore a few hidden gems and underrated locations worth exploring in Ipswich.

Russell Orchards

Russell Orchards, ​​a family-owned and operated 120-acre fruit farm, is the perfect place for a day out during the summer and fall seasons. Their regular store season begins on or around May 1st every year and they are open every day through the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Daily hours are 9-6 from May to October and 9-5 in November. Here are a few things you and the whole family can explore while visiting the farm:

  • Visit their beloved farm animals including chickens, ducks, sheep, goats, guinea fowl, pigs, donkeys, and horses. The animals are there for a number of reasons, but primarily for your enjoyment. The farm asks that you don’t feed them food from home, but you are welcome to pet any animals who come within reach!
  • Pick some of your own fruits and berries. There is nothing like apple and pumpkin picking in the fall! Check the calendar periodically to see what’s in season. Crops are also available in their store, including fresh apples, apple cider, freshly made cider donuts, honey, baked goods, and specialty grocery items!
  • Head to the winery for a wine tasting! Flights are available for purchase Friday through Sunday from 11-5. Wines can also be purchased chilled or at room temperature at any time during store hours.

Crane Beach

Crane Beach consists of more than 1,200 acres of beachfront, dunes, and maritime forest. The white sand beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, walking, and more. While the beach is the main draw, the 5.5 miles worth of trails and nature within the estate make it a year-round playground. Plus, the 2023 Greenhead season has just come to an end, so check it out this fall!

Passes are necessary for parking and admission. When visiting, please avoid the fenced nesting areas of piping plovers. The beach is one of the threatened bird’s most important nesting sites. 

Appleton Farms

As one of the oldest continuously operating farms in the country, Appleton Farms offers a glimpse into New England’s agricultural past. The 1,000-acre sustainable and historic farm and education center in Ipswich includes grasslands, livestock, stone walls, vegetable crops, and historic farm buildings. There are also nearly 12 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing.

With year-round events, Appleton Farms’ calendar is action-packed. The farm hosts culinary workshops, education programs, camps, guided recreational activities, farm dinners, full moon walks, and more. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend trying their wood-fired pizza!

Breweries in Ipswich

Ipswich is home to a few breweries, including True North Ale Company and Ipswich Ale Brewery. 

True North is newly built and opened in the fall of 2017. The 15,000-square-foot facility holds state-of-the-art brewing equipment and an on-site taproom, patio, and events space. They serve full pours and flights from 20 taps and also sell canned beer to take home with you. The taproom is BYOF (bring your own food), but light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase. Children are welcome to be seated at tables as long as they are accompanied by their parents, but they cannot sit at the bar. Check out their calendar for upcoming vendors and events!

Not only does Ipswich Ale Brewery craft delicious beers, but they also have an on-site restaurant called Brewer’s Table. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 9 PM and features 15 taps, a diverse menu, and a dog-friendly patio! Check out their upcoming events and plan your visit.

Wolf Hollow

Wolf Hollow, also known as the North American Wolf Foundation is a wolf sanctuary and educational facility. It is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization fully supported by donations, adoptions, and proceeds from admission and gift shop sales. They aim to raise awareness of the important role the threatened wolf species plays in a healthy ecosystem, educate on the dynamics of a wolf pack and the biology of the wolf, and provide a glimpse into the history of man’s relationship with wolves. As a visitor of Wolf Hollow, you have the unique opportunity to meet their resident gray wolves accompanied by an educational presentation suited for visitors of all ages.  

Wolf Hollow is open year-round on weekends, offering both private and public tours, which require tickets to be purchased in advance. These can be purchased on their website along with memberships and donations. 

Ipswich has quite a few things to see and do, with options for the entire family. Discover more of Ipswich’s history, hidden gems, and locations worth exploring here. If you’re looking to learn more about Ipswich or the surrounding towns, contact me today.

Ipswich MA

Just north of Hamilton-Wenham and south of Rowley and 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. 

When looking for outdoor activities on the Northshore, Ipswich has just about everything. This beautiful town has beaches, rivers, marshes, and plenty of history. Incorporated as a town in 1634, Ipswich used to be comprised of fishermen, farmers, and shipbuilders. In the 1800s, its economy became more heavily based on the mills built along the Ipswich River. Today, you can see Ipswich’s rich past in the historic architecture of its homes and public buildings. It is approximately 33 square miles and home to almost 14,000 residents. Interested in visiting or relocating to Ipswich? Here are our top recommendations for food, views, and activities. 

GROCERIES AND SNACKS

Ipswich Fish Market

If you are looking for fresh fish to cook at home, or pre-made meals and sides for a picnic on the beach, the Ipswich Fish Market has an extensive selection of the best local catches and more. 

Ipswich Butcher Bros

Visit Ipswich Butcher Bros this summer to find everything you need for a fantastic backyard barbeque. As one reviewer writes, “The maple bourbon steak tips alone are worth a half day’s journey.”

Shaw’s

For essentials, Ipswich has a Shaw’s location near its downtown area! Although Shaw’s is a chain grocery store in the Northeast, this particular location has wonderful local ties, and its workers participate in Ipswich’s yearly Chowderfest.

Appleton Farms

One of the oldest continuously operating farms in Massachusetts, Appleton Farms features a wonderful store that sells their produce, meats, breads, pastries, and more!

Sandpiper Bakery 

In the mornings, visit Sandpiper Bakery for pastries and coffee! They also feature a breakfast and lunch selection with sandwiches, salad, and more. 

GORGEOUS VIEWS

Hamlin Reservation

Only accessible at low tide, Hamlin Reservation is a must-see for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and hikers alike. It features a one-mile loop trail through beautiful fields and marsh meadows. 

Sandy Point State Reservation

At the southern tip of Plum Island, Sandy Point State Reservation offers swimming, educational programs, hunting, and magnificent ocean views. 

Crane Wildlife Refuge

Comprised of islands and salt marshes, the Crane Wildlife Refuge is an incredible place to spot rare birds. Go for a boat tour, kayak trip, or a guided hike of Choate Island. 

DELICIOUS EATS

Clam Box

A nationally recognized landmark built in 1935, the Clambox is probably the #1 must-see on your visit to Ipswich. They have perfected their recipe for fried clams, and we recommend visiting on a weekday to avoid the (understandably) long lines!

Choate Bridge Pub

Located in historic downtown Ipswich, Choate Bridge pub is the perfect place to end a summer day. Classic American pub fare and seafood, what’s better than that?

Fox Creek Tavern

Visit Fox Creek Tavern for incredible flatbreads, burgers, or fish. They also offer brunch on the weekends! 

The Brown Dog

A well-loved local American food spot with outdoor seating, The Brown Dog is always a fan favorite in Ipswich’s yearly Chowderfest. 

HAVE SOME FUN/SHOP SMALL/THINGS TO DO

Russell Orchards

If you find yourself in Ipswich any time between May and November, you have to visit Russell Orchards. Pick your own berries, see the barnyard animals, or buy food and wine in their store! Whatever you do, don’t leave without one of their cider donuts. 

Crane Beach

Crane Beach is a big attraction for both locals and tourists alike. If you want a full beach day, Crane Beach is worth the cost of admission, but the price is reduced after 4:00 pm. With four miles of beautiful sandy beach and dunes, this beach is the top summer spot in Ipswich. 

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate

A personal favorite, Castle Hill on the Crane Estate is a beautiful and historic spot to spend an afternoon. 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)! 


Looking to buy or sell in Ipswich? Contact me to learn more.