Plan your visit to
North of Boston
Massachusetts today!
North of Boston is home to the 34 cities and towns of Essex County. Located only minutes from Boston, this year-round destination offers 200 miles of coastline and sandy beaches, world class dining, rich history, vibrant arts and culture and nationally recognized attractions. From the salty air of Newburyport to the witches of Salem, the seafood of Gloucester to the industrial city of Lawrence, there is something for everyone North of Boston!
Celebrating the American Revolution's 250th Anniversary
Our cities and towns are marking this historic milestone with a variety of immersive events and multimedia experiences.
Your Perfect Destination
Miles of breathtaking coastline, sandy beaches, acclaimed restaurants, witches, pirates, literature, historic architecture, and a vibrant arts & culture scene combine to make North of Boston your perfect destination.
Weddings & Events
When it’s time to make your love official, the North of Boston region is the place to say “I do.” From intimate micro-weddings to oceanfront weddings and lavish extravaganzas (when we can safely gather together again), we have everything you need to make your special day flawless and memorable. Check out our full list of resources, vendors, and venues for engagements, showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties, wedding celebrations, honeymoons, and more.
Sharon's Studio of Gloucester
Group Tours
Looking for an authentic New England experience for your group? North of Boston has it all just a short drive from Boston’s Logan International Airport. Miles of breathtaking coastline, sandy beaches, acclaimed restaurants, witches, pirates, literature, historic architecture, and a vibrant arts & culture scene combine to your perfect destination.
Meetings
The North of Boston region is the perfect destination for your next meeting or gathering. Be inspired at a range of full-service hotels centrally located or plan a gathering at a boutique inn or unique venue. When you are ready to relax, we have indoor and outdoor options for team-building or just for fun! Let us help you plan an unforgettable experience by submitting an RFP today.
Visitor Guide
Your North of Boston free guide features accommodations, restaurants, attractions, events and more!
North of Boston Happenings
From whale watching to outdoor concerts, theater and film festivals to Halloween Haunted Happenings, hiking and fishing to farm suppers and Culture Splash there’s year-round fun to be found North of Boston.
@VisitNorthOfBoston
April 10: Bonsai & Bevs at @deacongiles Distillery!
Grab your friends and a drink, and learn the art of bonsai at this fun and hands-on Beginner Bonsai Workshop in Salem! 
Enjoy a relaxing night out as expert instructors guide you through potting, pruning, and styling your very own tiny tree to take home. No experience needed—just bring your creativity and your crew! 
: Deacon Giles Distillery
Experience Rocky Neck Now 2025: A Celebration of Creativity now through April 6th at the Cultural Center at Rocky Neck in Gloucester!
Celebrate exhibition season with this exciting annual show featuring recent works from 92 Rocky Neck Art Colony artists. From bold abstracts to striking realism—paintings, sculpture, photography, and more—this show is a must-see showcase of contemporary creativity. 
: @rockyneck_artcolony
Maple season has arrived at @appletonfarms in Ipswich! 
Families with kids ages 3–11 are invited to experience the magic of maple with a fun, hands-on program that takes you from sap to syrup. Little ones will observe sugar maples, taste fresh sap, learn about the tools used in the sugaring process—and of course, sample the sweet results! 
The program runs approximately 45 minutes and includes a visit with the barnyard animals. Dress for the weather—this is a fully outdoor experience! While the event is tailored for younger audiences, all are welcome.
Don’t forget to swing by the sugar shack from 11:30–3pm for maple treats and baked goods, and visit the Farm Store (open 10–4) to grab a bottle of Appleton’s own maple syrup.
Space is limited and pre-registration is strongly recommended on Appleton Farms` website. For adults looking for a more in-depth maple experience, check out the Adult Maple Stroll also offered at Appleton Farms!
Don`t miss Broadway veteran Jake Ryan Flynn`s debut one-man show at @officialnsmt! 
Brimming with humor, heart, and soul-stirring music, this unforgettable performance is a heartfelt farewell as Jake reflects on growing up in the spotlight. Join him on April 1st for an encore of the places, spaces, and community that shaped him. A night of music, laughter, and reflection you won’t forget! 
Salem, once known for its dark history with the 1692 witch trials, has transformed into a progressive haven for diversity and inclusivity. Today, it proudly celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with businesses like @witchywomanweddings offering alternative ceremonies, @hauswitch and @now.age providing unique experiences, and rainbow flags flying high alongside historic streets. Whether you’re exploring the rich history or embracing a sense of belonging, Salem welcomes all with open arms. 
Thanks to @visitma for supporting this piece! Check out the full article from @natgeo on their website.: @creativecollectivema
This spring, Gloucester comes alive as the waterfront bustles with energy and the town shakes off the winter chill. Lobstermen prepare for the season, boats dot the harbor, and the salty breeze carries the promise of warmer days ahead. Stroll through town to explore local shops, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in the rich maritime history at the Cape Ann Museum. With community events, art exhibits, and the return of outdoor adventures, there’s no better time to experience the beauty and spirit of Gloucester in spring. 
Spring in the North of Boston region is the perfect time to immerse yourself in rich culture, and the @peabodyessex Museum in Salem offers captivating exhibits for all ages. From maritime history to contemporary art, there`s something to spark curiosity at every turn.
Dynamic installations and family-friendly programming Explore exhibits that blend history with modern creativity A must-visit for anyone seeking inspiration and wonder this season
Don`t miss the chance to experience one of New England’s most renowned museums this spring! 
Spring into adventure at Residence Inn Danvers!
Warmer days and longer nights are the perfect excuse for a North Shore getaway! Whether you’re exploring historic Salem, catching a game at Fenway, or soaking up the coastal charm of Rockport, Residence Inn Danvers puts you right in the heart of it all.
Stay in comfort with apartment-style suites featuring full kitchens & spacious living areas
Start your day right with a complimentary hot breakfast buffet
Stay active in the 24-hour fitness center
Unwind & refresh in the seasonal outdoor pool
Conveniently located on Route 1 North with easy access to I-95, the Residence Inn Danvers is just minutes from top attractions and a short trip to Boston, Salem, and beyond. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape, an extended stay, or corporate travel, make it a sweet spring stay! 
Looking for the perfect place to host your private event or corporate meeting? Whether you`re planning a rehearsal dinner, baby shower, semi-private brunch or a place to propose, let @milemarkerone help you make the experience the most memorable it can be with beautiful water views.
For more information visit: https://capeannmarina.com/wedding-events/
Image courtesy of Mile Marker One
This spring, maritime history shines a little brighter in Newburyport! @thechmm_newburyport proudly welcomes the return of a historic 4th Order Fresnel Lens, once lighting the way at Coney Island Lighthouse. Thanks to a collaborative effort with the U.S. Coast Guard, Congressman Seth Moulton, and Senator Bruce Tarr, this century-old beacon now has a home in the museum’s main hallway.
Come marvel at this incredible piece of maritime innovation, explore its fascinating history, and attend special presentations by Rear Admiral Daniel May, USCG (Ret.). A must-see for history buffs and lighthouse lovers alike!
Spring is on the horizon, and Rockport is coming back to life!
The harbor is thawing, the sea breeze is getting a little warmer, and soon, the season will be in full swing. Who else is ready for spring strolls, seaside views, and that unmistakable Rockport charm? 
Drop a in the comments if you can’t wait to be back!
Eighteen Creative Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day North of Boston! Experience Irish music and food, Irish step dancing, historic house tours, dueling pianos, cookie decorating, whiskey tasting, and more this St. Patrick’s Day.
Read more: head over to @northshoremag website for details!
