-
What is Lowell known for?
- The fourth largest city in Massachusetts, Lowell transports visitors back to America’s Industrial Age.
-
What are the top historical attractions in Lowell?
- Popular attractions include Lowell National Historic Park, the Boott Cotton Mills Museum, and the New England Quilt Museum.
- Visitors can also explore the American Textile History Museum to learn about the city's industrial past.
-
What outdoor and dining experiences does Lowell offer?
- Lowell is home to beautiful parks and excellent restaurants.
-
Where can art lovers go in Lowell?
- Art enthusiasts can visit the Whistler House Museum of Art for a cultural experience.
-
What sports and entertainment options are available in Lowell?
- Catch a game or event at LeLacheur Park.
- Enjoy live performances at the Merrimack Repertory Theatre.
-
Are there other unique attractions in Lowell?
- Visitors can discover more unique attractions throughout Lowell, MA.
This post may include affiliate links. Click here for Affiliate Disclosure.
1. Lowell National Historic Park
Explore mills, canals, and sights on an exciting step into history.
Lowell National Historic Park was established in 1978 and is operated by the National Park Service, which has park partners and volunteers to help with the care of the national park. The park has many notable features and takes visitors back to the industrial era where they can learn how the cotton mill worked and how textiles were created.
Features include: the Boott Cotton Mill and Museum, The Francis Gate, the Mill Girls and Immigrants Boarding House, the Suffolk Mill Turbine and Powerhouse, and the Lowell Canal System. The park has a visitor center that provides a free self-guided tour, and the footpath along the Merrimack Canal offers visitors a glance into the functions of existing and former sites.
304 Dutton Street, Lowell MA, 01852, 978-970-5000
2. Boott Cotton Mills Museum
Discover industrial heritage and walk through engaging, affordable exhibits.
The Boott Cotton Mills Museum was operational for over one hundred and twenty years before it was closed down in 1955. Since then, it has been restored and reopened as a museum that pays homage to the mill and the mill tradition of the city of Lowell. The museum not only features authentic mill equipment, but also turns on all the industrial grade looms to give visitors a look at a real working mill.
The industrial grade looms run at top speed and are located in the weave room. There is a gift shop that is filled with educational books of the 19th century, as well as videos and other information on the history of mills in Lowell. The museum building itself has three floors, two of which are specifically used for the museum while the third hosts modern condominiums and lofts.
115 John Street, Lowell, MA 01852, 978-970-5000
3. Whistler House Museum of Art
Admire fine art in the romantic birthplace of James McNeill Whistler.
The Whistler House Museum of Art aims to preserve the birthplace of James McNeill Whistler, one of America’s premier artists. The museum also looks at raising awareness for the history of the house and the artwork of the original residents who were innovators during the American Industrial Revolution. The museum promotes research and exhibitions that are related to the Whistler heritage, the house, and regional artists.
The Whistler House has events that showcase diverse campaigns and exhibits. The museum offers youth summer programs that revolve around class-based education. Those interested in the artwork can visit the house, which has an exhibit of their permanent collection, as well as an exhibit for the Parker Gallery and Arshile Gorky.
243 Worthen Street, Lowell, MA 01852, 978-452-7641
4. New England Quilt Museum
See intricate quilts and explore an unusual textile collection.
The New England Quilt Museum is located in the Lowell Institute for Savings Building, which was built in 1845 in the classic Greek Revival Style. It has over 18,000 square feet of space filled with exhibition galleries, a resource center, a museum store, classrooms, support areas, and over four hundred antique and contemporary quilts. The museum holds exhibitions throughout the year that showcase award winning quilts from various international competitions.
The museum also has workshops throughout the year where you can learn about quilting techniques and learn from artists through their educational programs. The museum store has books and magazines for sale on various quilting techniques and types, from sewing to textile to modern quilting, plus they have quilts for sale that date back to the 1860s.
18 Shattuck Street, Lowell, MA 01852, 978-452-4207
5. LeLacheur Park
Catch a game and enjoy a fun, family-friendly summer outing.
LeLacheur Park opened in 1998 and is home to the Lowell Spinners, an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. The stadium can seat 5,000 people and was built as a replacement for the Alumni Field, which occupied the site prior to LeLacheur Park. The seating of the park is raised above the field so all viewers can easily see the play by plays, while a large scoreboard sits in left field.
There is a speaker system installed in center field rather than behind home plate, and it provides excellent audio. There is plenty of available parking, and the park boasts a gorgeous backdrop of the Merrimack River over the fence in left field. The concourse surrounds the top portion of the park, which is where you will find refreshments, merchandise, and bathrooms.
450 Aiken St., Lowell, MA 01854, 978-459-1702
6. Merrimack Repertory Theatre
Watch live performances and savor an affordable weekend cultural experience.
The Merrimack Repertory Theatre is a non-profit professional theatre that presents performance through September to May at the historic Liberty Hall, which is a 279-seat theatre. The theatre was co-founded in 1979 and has since produced over 200 productions, including sixteen world premieres.
The theater is known for its contemporary and classic performances, producing seven plays throughout each season in addition to offering education programs aimed at both students and adults. The student matinees allow schools to provide their students with an experience that presents literature through performance. This allows the students to connect with stories and characters in a unique way.
50 East Merrimack Street, Lowell, MA 01852, 978-654-4678
7. Lowell Summer Music Series
Enjoy outdoor concerts and relax on an easy, exciting night out.
The Lowell Summer Music Series, an annual non-profit series that is held between June and September, brings live concerts to residents and tourists at affordable prices. All of the concerts are held at the Boarding House Park, which is located in the Boott Mills Complex. All concerts have general admission, and season passes are available.
You can buy tickets online that have no fees attached to them, and you can view their upcoming shows via their website. The Lowell Summer Music Series also has specific shows designed for children, which are free of charge, and they offer an art portion, organic snacks, a performance, and trolley park rides.
40 French Street, Lowell, MA 01852, 978-272-1829
8. Mogun Cultural Center
Learn local immigrant stories and explore sights with historical depth.
The Mogun Cultural Center was established in 1989 and currently forms a bridge between the city of Lowell and the community groups within the city. The focus of the cultural center is to play a positive role among all groups associated with the museum including the advancement efforts of cultural and historical activities within the city.
The cultural center has historical displays and educational programs for youth, and it promotes community diversity and learning while supporting the folk arts, music, and dance. Current exhibits include: The Mill Girls and Immigrants Exhibit, the Center for Lowell History, the Greater Merrimack Valley Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, and the Angkor Dance Troupe.
40 French Street, Lowell, MA 01852, 978-970-5000
9. Western Avenue Studios
Browse artists’ workspaces and discover creative finds on a quick trip.
Western Avenue Studios offers a haven for creative individuals who want to work and live among an inspiring community. The complex has over five acres spread out amongst three brick mill buildings that have 250 work only studios and 50 live/work lofts.
Among these buildings is an artists’ association, the Loading Dock Gallery, and the Onyx Room Performance Space. The Western Avenue Studios offers individuals the opportunity to rent out studios, which is especially useful to artists who want the perfect space to help them thrive. However, if you are looking for a live in workspace, you will be required to obtain an artist’s certification.
122 and 160 Western Avenue, Lowell, MA 01851, 978-710-8605
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers, great for walking tours.
UMass Lowell Inn & Conference Center – A centrally located stay with river views.
Explore the Lowell National Historical Park – Learn about the city’s industrial history.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and vibrant, ideal for outdoor events and festivals.
Sonesta Select Boston Lowell – Comfortable and convenient lodging.
Attend the Lowell Folk Festival – Enjoy live music, food, and cultural performances.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for sightseeing.
Element Chelmsford – A modern hotel with extended-stay options.
Walk along the Merrimack River – Take in stunning autumn colors and scenic views.
Winter (December-February) – Cold and snowy, great for cozy indoor experiences.
Courtyard by Marriott Boston Lowell/Chelmsford – A reliable and comfortable stay.
Visit the New England Quilt Museum – Discover unique textile art and craftsmanship.
Map:
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents: