Newburyport Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Newburyport, Massachusetts with this comprehensive tour guide featuring top attractions, dining, lodging, and more.


Introduction to Newburyport

Nestled in Eastern Massachusetts’ North Shore region, Newburyport is a charming coastal city that boasts an array of cultural and natural attractions. Founded in the mid-17th century, Newburyport is home to a rich history, with well-preserved colonial architecture and fascinating museums.

Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking, while seafood lovers can indulge in the city’s fresh and delicious seafood cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation destination, Newburyport has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Newburyport

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Custom House Maritime Museum

The Custom House Maritime Museum offers an extensive collection of maritime artifacts and displays, including a vast model boat collection. Originally built in 1835, the Custom House (which was an important federal building in the US for collecting customs duties) has since been turned into a museum to preserve the city’s extensive maritime history.

Cushing House Museum & Garden

The Cushing House Museum and Garden is a perfect example of Colonial architecture. Built in 1808, the house’s interiors are decorated with fine period furniture, and its surroundings have been turned into beautiful gardens. Guests can explore the charming gardens, view the beautiful architecture, and learn about the city’s historical significance.

Natural Attractions of Newburyport: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Maudslay State Park

Maudsley State Park is a perfect destination for nature lovers. The vast park encompasses well-manicured lawns and beautiful gardens filled with vibrant flora, not to mention its mild hills and rolling landscapes which make for a great backdrop while picnicking.

Plum Island

Also known as “Birdwatcher’s Paradise,” Plum Island is situated off the coast of Newburyport and is a premier destination for birdwatchers. Aside from birdwatching, visitors can enjoy a serene serene atmosphere for walks or do some surfing in the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Newburyport

Newburyport and its surrounding areas offer gorgeous and scenic trails that are perfect for both hiking and biking!

Clipper City Rail Trail

Clipper City Rail Trail is a popular recreational trail, covering approximately 1.1 miles and passing by different scenic attractions throughout Newburyport. The trail starts at the city’s waterfront and ends at the MBTA commuter rail station.

Maudslay State Park Trail

Maudsley State Park also offers hikers and bikers several trails to choose from. Visitors can explore the park’s different terrains while enjoying scenic views of the Merrimack River.

Best Things to Do in Newburyport: Activities and Tours

Newburyport Whale Watch

Newburyport Whale Watch offers guests a chance to view several species of whales such as humpback, finback & minke whales up close and personal. It’s certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a perfect tour for nature lovers.

Custom House Maritime Museum Walking Tour

The Custom House Maritime Museum offers an exciting walking tour, “In the Footsteps of the Merchant Marine,” which educates visitors about the city’s maritime history and architecture. Additionally, guests are sure to be impressed by the Grand Federalist-style interiors of the museum.

Week-Long Itinerary for Newburyport

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Custom House Maritime Museum followed by a riverside evening walk
Day 2 Hike or bike one of the trails in Maudsley Park, and have a picnic (packed lunch recommended)
Day 3 Head up to Flag Hill Distillery & Winery for a relaxation amid lavender fields and award-winning wine samples
Day 4 Visit Plum Island and explore Parker River Wildlife Refuge, or enjoy a day of sun and surf
Day 5 Take a tour of the city’s historical landmarks, including the Cushing House Museum & Garden
Day 6 Enjoy an evening at Downtown offering extensive dining and shopping options (a must-visit)
Day 7 Canoe/Kayak/Paddleboard in Cashman Park, ending the trip with a scenic river view and some peaceful alone time

Food and Drink Scene of Newburyport

Must-Try Dishes

Lobster Roll

Newburyport is famous for its classic Lobster Roll! Visit the city’s different restaurants to taste the different variations offered, best paired with local beer or wine.

Clam Chowder

No trip to New England is complete without trying a bowl of Clam Chowder! Enjoy it in ample portions, by the bowl, along with some freshly baked bread at the city’s various restaurants.

Local Beverages

Riverwalk Brewery

Riverwalk Brewery, which has a relaxed atmosphere, offers a wide selection of handcrafted beers that can be conveniently sampled onsite.

Newburyport Brewing Company

A perfect destination for beer lovers, Newburyport Brewing Company offers a wide selection of locally made beer. The brewery also hosts fun events such as Trivia Nights, Live Music and stand-up comedy shows, the perfect addition to a fun night out!

Where to Stay in Newburyport: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hotel Portsmouth

Located just a short distance from Newburyport, Hotel Portsmouth combines sophisticated design, luxurious amenities, and excellent service, ideal for travelers who prefer attaining a luxurious stay.

Garrison Inn Boutique Hotel

The Garrison Inn Boutique Hotel offers comfortable and well-appointed rooms decorated in a colonial style. The hotel is located just a few minutes’ walk from the city’s waterfront and offers convenient access to all the top attractions for visitors to Newburyport.

What to Buy in Newburyport: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Souvenirs from Plum Island Soap Company

Souvenirs from Plum Island Soap Company or from any of the city’s different gift shops make for great reminders of your trip. The Plum Island Soap Company has soaps, lotions, and body butter all produced from environmentally sustainable ingredients.

Coffee from the Coffee Factory

A bag of locally roasted, fresh-brewed coffee beans from this Newburyport coffee roasting company is the perfect purchase to bring home and start your day!

Local Culture and Customs of Newburyport

Newburyport’s residents are known for their warm and welcoming nature. Visitors can also expect to experience the city’s deep-seated cultural customs and colonial heritage, preserved through museums, historical sites, and events such as the annual Harvest Festival, where visitors are welcome to eat, shop, and participate in local traditions.

Best Time to Visit Newburyport

The best time to visit Newburyport is from late spring through to early autumn, when temperatures are mild, and the seasonal highlights are in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Newburyport

Do:

  • Do sample the local seafood cuisine.
  • Do take a walking tour of historic homes.
  • Do visit at least one of the area’s beautiful beaches.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and any other necessary outdoor items, including insect repellant.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the local seafood cuisine.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask residents for recommendations or directions – their warm and welcoming nature guarantees you a helping hand wherever you go.

Safety and Health

Safety in Newburyport

Newburyport is a safe city and a great destination to explore on foot.

Health in Newburyport

Visitors are highly encouraged to bring their medication with them when travelling. Health care services are available, and most insurance carriers will cover expenses if you require any health emergency services.

Getting to Newburyport: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Newburyport

The nearest airport to Newburyport is Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), only 33 miles away from the city centre. Uber or taxis are available for a direct ride to Newburyport.

Bus Stations Near Newburyport

The Newburyport Bus Terminal is only a few blocks from downtown, making it easy to access. The terminal provides connections to other cities such as Boston, New York, or Portland.

Other Options

Renting a car is also an excellent option as the city has ample parking, and most of the surrounding areas are easy to navigate using online maps.

How to Get Around in Newburyport

Visitors can easily get around in Newburyport by utilizing the Clipper City Rail Trail if they prefer walking or biking. Taxis and car rentals are also available at the bus station. Uber is frequently used in Newburyport, too.

Where to Go Next from Newburyport: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Salem

Salem is located just an hour’s drive from Newburyport, extending a perfect day-trip get away with its beautiful countryside and bustling cultural scene. Home to many witch museums, the historic site offers the opportunity to view several historically significant landmarks. Visitors can get there via rail or car rentals.

Boston

Less than an hour’s drive from Newburyport, Visitors can easily navigate and manage a day trip to the historical city of Boston by rail, bus or car rental. Boston is filled with many attractions such as Fenway Park, Freedom Trail, and the historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

Conclusion

Newburyport, a city offering coastal charm and colonial history, is a perfect destination for families looking for farm-fresh produce, tucking in to food and breweries or spending the day at the beach. You’re sure to find plenty of activities and attractions to keep you occupied for a memorable vacation during your trip to Newburyport.