Ipswich
,Ipswich is a charming town located on the North Shore of Massachusetts, United States. It is known for its picturesque coastal landscapes, historic architecture, and rich colonial history. Ipswich boasts many beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and outdoor recreational activities for visitors and residents to enjoy.
With its quaint downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries, Ipswich offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and seaside beauty.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Ipswich
morning
:Start your day with a visit to Crane Beach, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk along the shore. Remember to take in the beautiful ocean views and the fresh sea breeze.
afternoon
:Head to the historic Ipswich Museum to learn about the town’s rich history. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the galleries showcasing local art and culture.
evening
:Dine at a local seafood restaurant and savor some fresh clams or lobster. End your day with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront.
Nature Day
morning
:Visit the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge for some morning birdwatching. Bring your binoculars to get an up-close look at the local wildlife.
afternoon
:Enjoy a picnic lunch at Sandy Point Beach, surrounded by stunning scenery. Spend some time sunbathing or collecting shells on the beach.
evening
:Return to the town for a casual dinner at a cozy café. Reflect on your day surrounded by nature and plan for tomorrow's adventures.
Highlights
Good
- Rich history and charming architecture
- Strong sense of community and small-town feel
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and parks
- Variety of local businesses and restaurants
- Proximity to larger cities like Boston
Bad
- Higher cost of living compared to some nearby areas
- Limited public transportation options
- Fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Potential for harsh winter weather
- Limited job opportunities in certain fields
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Kayaking on the Ipswich River
Experience the scenic beauty of the Ipswich River by renting a kayak and exploring the calm waters surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Hiking at Willowdale State Forest
Enjoy miles of trails through diverse ecosystems and beautiful landscapes in Willowdale State Forest, perfect for hikers of all skill levels.
Visit Crane Beach
Relax on the sandy shores of Crane Beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Biking on the Bay Circuit Trail
Take a bike ride along sections of the Bay Circuit Trail, offering a variety of terrains and beautiful natural scenery.
Bird Watching at Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Visit the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary for bird watching and wildlife observation amidst the tranquil environment.
Fishing at Ipswich Town Wharf
Cast a line and try your luck fishing at the Ipswich Town Wharf, known for its great fishing opportunities and beautiful waterfront views.
Exploring Historic Downtown Ipswich
Take a leisurely stroll through historic downtown Ipswich, enjoying the architecture, shops, and local restaurants.
Camping at Harold Parker State Forest
Experience nature up close with a camping trip at Harold Parker State Forest, complete with hiking trails and various outdoor activities.
Participating in Community Events at Ipswich River Park
Join community events and outdoor activities in Ipswich River Park, a beautiful space for picnics, sports, and seasonal festivals.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Ipswich with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Ipswich Riverwalk
A scenic walk along the river, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding nature, perfect for photos.
Castle Hill on the Crane Estate
This historic estate boasts beautiful gardens and panoramic coastal views, ideal for capturing breathtaking images.
Ipswich Bay
The bay provides picturesque views of the ocean and is a great spot for sunrise and sunset photography.
Bakers Island Lighthouse
This iconic lighthouse is a classic photo opportunity and offers beautiful views of the surrounding waterways.
Plum Island
Known for its natural beauty and wildlife, Plum Island offers stunning seascapes and landscapes perfect for photography.
Ipswich Museum
Explore the rich history and take in architectural photography opportunities both inside and outside the museum.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ipswich Clams
Freshly harvested and renowned for their sweet, tender meat, Ipswich clams are a must-try. Visit the Ipswich Shellfish Company for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Clam Chowder
Savor the rich and creamy clam chowder, a local favorite, at the Clam Box, known for its classic New England seafood fare.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ipswich better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Ipswich Farmer's Market
Indulge in a variety of locally grown produce, artisanal products, and savory street food offerings at the Ipswich Farmer's Market, held on the Town Green.
Ipswich Chowder Trail
Embark on the Ipswich Chowder Trail to sample diverse versions of this classic dish from food trucks and vendors located throughout the town.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be Punctual
In Ipswich, as in many parts of the United States, punctuality is highly valued. Arriving on time for appointments and social gatherings is seen as a sign of respect.
Practice Politeness
Using polite language, such as 'please,' 'thank you,' and 'excuse me,' is important in Ipswich. Courteous behavior in conversations and interactions fosters positive relationships.
Be Respectful of Personal Space
Maintaining an appropriate amount of personal space during conversations is important. People in Ipswich generally appreciate a comfortable distance to feel at ease during interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ipswich with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Ipswich, as in much of the United States, tipping is customary in the service industry. It is generally expected to tip restaurant waitstaff between 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Tipping is also common for bartenders, taxi drivers, hair stylists, and hotel staff. While tipping is not legally required, it is considered an important part of service workers' income.
Payment
Payment practices in Ipswich rely on a combination of cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Many establishments accept all major credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular. There are also local regulations in place that govern payment processing and consumer rights, ensuring transactions are secure and fair.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ipswich.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) in Ipswich is a delightful time as temperatures begin to rise, ranging from the mid-40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. Visitors can enjoy blooming flowers, outdoor activities, and the beginning of the tourist season. Expect occasional rain showers.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is warm and can be humid, with temperatures typically in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. This is the peak tourist season, with many festivals, outdoor events, and beach activities. Prepare for occasional thunderstorms.
Fall
Fall (September to November) is particularly beautiful in Ipswich, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit and vibrant autumn foliage. This season offers pleasant weather perfect for hiking and harvesting festivals. Expect cooler temperatures as the season progresses.
Winter
Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often ranging from the 20s to 40s Fahrenheit. Snow is possible, and the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. This season sees fewer tourists, making it a quieter time to visit, but be prepared for cold weather.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
A beautiful sanctuary with miles of trails that weave through forests, wetlands, and along the Ipswich River, ideal for hiking and wildlife observation.
Crane Beach
Located in the nearby Crane Estate, this scenic area offers walking trails through dunes and salt marshes, along with stunning ocean views.
Bradford State Forest
Features several miles of trails through wooded areas, offering a tranquil hiking experience just a short drive from Ipswich.
Willowdale State Forest
Offers a variety of hiking trails in a beautiful forested area, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful hike.
Appleton Farms
A scenic area that includes walking paths through farmland and woods, providing a unique mix of landscapes for a delightful hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ipswich through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Ipswich by plane.
Logan International Airport (BOS)
Located in Boston, MA, approximately 60 miles northeast of Ipswich, Logan is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Bradley International Airport (BDL)
Situated in Windsor Locks, CT, around 90 miles southwest of Ipswich, Bradley International Airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Green Airport (PVD)
Also known as T.F. Green Airport, located in Warwick, RI, about 70 miles southwest of Ipswich, providing both domestic and limited international services.
Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)
Located in Manchester, NH, approximately 50 miles northwest of Ipswich, this airport primarily serves domestic flights with some international connections.
Portland International Jetport (PWM)
Situated in Portland, ME, about 90 miles north of Ipswich, the Jetport primarily serves domestic flights and a few international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White
The majority racial group, typically comprising individuals of European descent.
Black or African American
A significant racial group including individuals with ancestral ties to Africa.
Hispanic or Latino
A diverse group that encompasses individuals of Latin American origin or descent.
Asian
A group representing individuals from various Asian countries.
Two or More Races
Individuals who identify with two or more racial or ethnic backgrounds.
Native American or Alaska Native
A group representing the indigenous peoples of North America.
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
Individuals with ancestral ties to Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, and other Pacific Islands.
The Soul of Ipswich
Discover the essence of Ipswich through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
A widely popular team sport played in Ipswich, with youth leagues and adult clubs participating in both local and regional competitions.
Baseball
Traditionally a favorite pastime in Ipswich, with a strong youth baseball program and community involvement in local leagues.
Basketball
A popular sport among students and adults alike, with numerous recreational leagues and school teams competing in the area.
Field Hockey
A prominent sport at the high school level in Ipswich, known for its competitive teams and dedicated player base.
Lacrosse
Gaining popularity in recent years, with youth leagues emerging and schools adding lacrosse programs.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many establishments in Ipswich offer diverse vegetarian and vegan menu items, including Zumi's Espresso & Ice Cream and The Choate Bridge Pub.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a range of gluten-free dishes at Crave: Mad for Chicken, renowned for its crispy, gluten-free fried chicken.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ipswich with these cultural adventures.
