Things To Do
in Newburyport
Newburyport is a charming coastal city located in northeastern Massachusetts, known for its rich history, vibrant downtown, and picturesque waterfront along the Merrimack River. The city features an array of historic buildings, including preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture, which adds to its quaint New England character. Newburyport is also home to a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and galleries, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
Additionally, the surrounding natural beauty, including nearby beaches and parks, offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $75 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful views of the Merrimack River. Grab a coffee at a local café to fuel your adventure.
Visit the iconic Custom House Maritime Museum to learn about the city's rich maritime history. Take some time to shop at the charming boutiques on State Street.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant for fresh seafood while watching the sunset. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk through the historic neighborhood.
Visit the Newburyport Public Library for some coffee and to admire the historic architecture. Then, take a guided walking tour to explore the city's colonial past.
Check out the Newburyport Art Association Gallery to appreciate local art. Enjoy lunch at one of the quaint bistros in the downtown area.
Attend a live performance at The Firehouse Center for the Arts. Wind down the evening with dessert at a nearby café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and waterfront access
- Charming historic downtown with boutiques and restaurants
- Strong sense of community and local events
- Rich in history and cultural attractions
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as parks and beach
- Higher cost of living compared to some nearby areas
- Limited public transportation options
- Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons
- Cold winters and potentially severe weather
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
Best Activities in Newburyport
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A scenic walking path along the waterfront that offers stunning views of the harbor and access to local shops and dining.
Explore the marshes and rivers through guided tours and educational programs focused on the local ecosystem.
A beautiful beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, along with stunning sunsets.
A large state park featuring wooded trails, river views, and open fields ideal for hiking and picnicking.
An area designated for wildlife preservation, featuring trails and opportunities for bird watching and photography.
Tours
Uncover the best of Newburyport with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Newburyport
Visit one of these nice places.
A barrier island offering stunning views of the ocean, marshes, and wildlife, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Located on the Merrimack River, this park provides picturesque views of the river, boats, and downtown Newburyport.
A scenic park with beautiful gardens, rolling meadows, and a variety of trees, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.
Offers panoramic views of the salt marshes and the opportunity to observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat.
Food in Newburyport
Newburyport Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This creamy and comforting chowder is a staple of New England cuisine, featuring tender clams, potatoes, and a rich broth. Try it at The Grog or Michael's Harborside.
Must-Try!
Indulge in a sumptuous lobster roll, showcasing fresh lobster meat nestled in a buttered, toasted roll. Don't miss the ones served at Bob Lobster and The Poynt.
Savor a classic New England dessert with a blueberry pie, often made with locally picked blueberries and a flaky crust. Sample delightful versions at Chococoa Baking Co. and Ganesh Imports.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Newburyport better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this vibrant market offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and local crafts every Sunday, providing a fantastic opportunity to savor authentic flavors and interact with local producers.
Discover a variety of delectable street food options such as seafood tacos, gourmet hot dogs, and freshly made crepes while enjoying the scenic views of the waterfront at Waterfront Park.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Newburyport, as in many parts of New England, people appreciate politeness. Greetings are often friendly but may be somewhat reserved at first. It's common to greet people with a simple 'hello' or 'how are you?' when entering shops or interacting in public.
Newburyport has a rich maritime history. Residents take pride in their town's heritage. Showing interest in local history, visiting historical sites, and participating in community events reflect a respectful attitude toward the culture and traditions of the city.
Newburyport has a strong focus on environmental conservation. Behaving in an eco-conscious manner, such as recycling, reducing waste, and respecting natural surroundings, is valued by the community. Engage in discussions about sustainability and support local initiatives when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Newburyport
Ensure a smooth experience
In Newburyport, tipping practices are similar to those in many parts of the United States. It is customary to tip service workers such as wait staff, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hairdressers. The standard tip is typically 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service provided. In restaurants, it is common to leave a tip in cash or add it to the bill when paying with a credit card.
Payment methods in Newburyport include cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and many also support contactless payment technology such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. It is advisable for visitors to carry some cash for smaller establishments or tips, though most places are equipped to handle electronic transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Newburyport, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. This is a popular time for birdwatching and enjoying outdoor activities along the coastline.
Summer is peak tourist season in Newburyport, with warm weather perfect for beach outings and outdoor events. The town comes alive with festivals, concerts, and bustling waterfront activities.
Fall brings stunning foliage to the region, making it an ideal time for scenic drives, hiking, and enjoying the harvest season. The crisp air and picturesque landscapes create a peaceful and inviting atmosphere.
Winter in Newburyport is quieter, but still charming with holiday events and cozy atmospheres. Visitors can enjoy winter sports, holiday shopping, and warm drinks in the town's historic buildings.
Newburyport at Night
Hiking in Newburyport
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail following the Merrimack River, offering beautiful views and various wildlife sightings.
This park features wooded trails, open meadows, and beautiful gardens, suitable for hiking and nature walks.
A small but lovely park in Newburyport that provides a peaceful environment for short walks and relaxation.
Located in Ipswich, this beach offers trails that lead through dunes and forests, with breathtaking ocean views.
A collection of trails in the area with varied terrain, from coastal views to forested paths, ideal for hiking.
Aiports
How to reach Newburyport by plane.
Located approximately 35 miles southwest of Newburyport, Logan International Airport is the primary airport serving the Boston area and is one of the busiest airports in the United States.
Situated about 50 miles northwest of Newburyport, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport serves the New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts region.
Located around 90 miles southwest of Newburyport, Bradley International Airport is the second-largest airport in New England and serves the Hartford-Springfield area.
Approximately 70 miles south of Newburyport, T.F. Green Airport is located in Providence, Rhode Island and serves the southeastern New England area.
Located about 30 miles south of Newburyport, Portsmouth International Airport at Pease serves the Seacoast region of New Hampshire and nearby areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A majority population in Newburyport, primarily of European descent.
A smaller but significant demographic group contributing to the city's cultural landscape.
Individuals or groups of Hispanic or Latino origin, representing a diverse community.
Includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, contributing to the diversity of the area.
People who identify as belonging to more than one racial category.
Includes individuals who do not fit into the other specified racial categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport with a rich history, played in local leagues and recreationally.
A widely played sport among youth and adults, with various local clubs and leagues.
A favorite sport for both young and old, with community games and school teams.
A growing sport in the area, particularly at the youth and high school levels.
Popular for fitness and competition, with several local races and running clubs.
A favored recreational activity, supported by scenic trails and cycling events.
Often practiced in local pools and along the waterfront, catering to various age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Newburyport.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several establishments in Newburyport, including Mission Oak Grill and Revitalive Cafe, offer a range of flavorful and innovative vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring a delightful experience for plant-based eaters.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can relish a variety of gluten-free options at places like Andiamo Restaurant + Bar and Purple Onion Cafe, where they can enjoy carefully crafted menus catering to their dietary needs.