Things To Do
in Lowell
Lowell is a historic city located in Massachusetts, United States. It was known as a major center for textile manufacturing during the Industrial Revolution. Today, Lowell is home to a mix of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and performing arts venues.
The city also features picturesque waterways, parks, and a vibrant downtown area with restaurants and shops.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center to learn about the city's rich industrial history. Join a guided tour to see the historic mills and canals that shaped Lowell.
Visit the Boott Cotton Mills Museum to get an insight into the textile industry. Afterward, take a stroll along the scenic canals.
Dine at a local restaurant to experience Lowell's culinary scene. Consider catching a performance at the Merrimack Repertory Theatre for some evening entertainment.
Kick off your day with a refreshing hike on the Great River Hiking Trail. This nature trail offers beautiful views of the Merrimack River and surrounding landscapes.
Pack a picnic and relax by the riverbank after your hike. Alternatively, continue exploring by renting a kayak to experience the river from a different perspective.
Experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar with live music or checking out community events. It's a great way to wind down your day and enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history, especially in relation to the textile industry.
- Diverse population and multicultural community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to nearby Boston.
- Access to recreational areas, including parks and the Merrimack River.
- Proximity to higher education institutions and a robust job market in certain sectors.
- Higher crime rates compared to national averages.
- Public schools may face challenges in funding and performance.
- Some areas experience urban decay and infrastructure issues.
- Weather can be harsh with cold winters and occasional heavy snowfall.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours due to proximity to major highways.
Best Activities in Lowell
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the history of Lowell and its industrial revolution through guided tours, canal boat rides, and museum exhibits.
Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching in a scenic natural setting.
Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the river, and enjoy the beautiful views and wildlife.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lowell with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lowell
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of canals, historic mills, and the Merrimack River
Provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape
Scenic views of the Merrimack River and historic industrial buildings
Food in Lowell
Lowell Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful dish made with rice noodles, fish-based curry, and fresh vegetables. You can try this dish at the Simply Khmer restaurant.
Must-Try!
A sweet and fluffy bread, often flavored with vanilla and lemon. You can find this delicious bread at Cavaleiro's Restaurant or at local bakeries.
A classic dessert that is a must-try in Lowell. Visit Vesper Country Club or Life Alive for delightful versions of this iconic treat.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lowell better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience a wide variety of locally grown produce, artisanal food products, and homemade goodies. Open on Fridays and located at Lucy Larcom Park.
Indulge in delicious street food offerings such as gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and creative mac 'n' cheese bowls at various locations throughout the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lowell, it is important to respect and celebrate cultural diversity, as the city is known for its rich mix of various ethnic groups and traditions.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Lowell, and it is customary to use polite language and show consideration towards others in social interactions.
Being mindful of public etiquette, such as queuing in lines, respecting personal space, and following traffic rules, is part of respectful behavior in Lowell.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lowell with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lowell
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lowell, tipping is a common practice in various service industries such as restaurants, bars, hotels, and taxi services. It is customary to tip 15-20% of the total bill for good service.
Payment in Lowell is commonly done using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards and contactless payment methods. It is also common for businesses to offer online payment options for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lowell.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Lowell, United States for mild weather and blooming flowers. Expect events like the Lowell Celebrates Kerouac festival in October.
Ideal for outdoor activities and events such as the Lowell Folk Festival in July, with warm weather and cultural celebrations.
Beautiful foliage and pleasant temperatures, making it a great time to visit Lowell, United States. Look out for the Bay State Marathon in October.
Expect cold weather and potential snowfall, but also the festive atmosphere of the Lowell Winterfest in February.
Lowell at Night
Hiking in Lowell
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that follows the Merrimack River, offering beautiful views and a relatively flat path for walking and hiking.
Located in nearby Chelmsford, this trail offers a peaceful hike through forests and alongside streams, perfect for nature lovers.
A protected area with several trails that provide opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying diverse wildlife across wetlands.
This park offers paved walking and hiking trails with access to the scenic views of the Charles River, perfect for a leisurely outdoor experience.
Located a short drive away, this state forest features numerous hiking trails that wind through wooded areas, offering a more rugged outdoor experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lowell through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lowell by plane.
Located approximately 25 miles south of Lowell, it is the primary airport serving the Boston area and one of the largest in New England.
Located about 35 miles northwest of Lowell, this airport is the largest in New Hampshire and offers numerous domestic and limited international flights.
Situated around 70 miles southwest of Lowell, this is Connecticut's largest airport, providing flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Located approximately 95 miles northeast of Lowell, this airport serves the Portland, Maine area and offers several domestic flights.
About 60 miles south of Lowell, this airport serves Providence, Rhode Island, and provides various domestic and international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group comprising individuals with origins from Spanish-speaking countries.
Individuals who identify as Caucasian and do not identify as Hispanic or Latino.
A demographic group representing individuals with African ancestry.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, such as those from East Asia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia.
Individuals who identify with two or more racial categories.
Individuals who are part of the indigenous peoples of the United States.
Includes individuals with origins from the Pacific Islands.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Lowell, with local leagues and high school teams participating at competitive levels.
Soccer enjoys a strong following in Lowell, with youth and adult leagues fostering community engagement.
Lacrosse has been growing in popularity in Lowell, particularly among younger players and high school teams.
Baseball is a staple sport in Lowell, with local teams and leagues playing throughout the spring and summer months.
American football is popular at the high school level in Lowell, with local schools competing in various leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lowell.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Lowell, numerous restaurants and cafes cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, with diverse menus that offer plant-based dining choices. Some notable spots include Life Alive and the Purple Carrot Food Truck.
Many dining establishments in Lowell provide gluten-free selections on their menus, ensuring that individuals with gluten intolerance can enjoy a variety of dishes. Check out Fuse Bistro and Mandarin Asian Bistro for delightful gluten-free offerings.