Looking for New England charm, history, and riverfront views? Visit Amesbury! Located along the Merrimack River just minutes from the New Hampshire border, Amesbury offers a blend of small-town character, scenic trails, local eats, and a vibrant arts scene. It's a hidden gem on Massachusetts' North Shore.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Amesbury is from late spring through fall (May through October). Enjoy mild weather, vibrant farmers markets, river activities, and fall foliage. Winter is cozy, with festive downtown lights and easy access to nearby ski areas.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Amesbury is located off I-95 and I-495, about 45 minutes north of Boston and 20 minutes from Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
  • By Train: The Newburyport MBTA commuter rail station is about 10 minutes away. From there, use a rideshare or local taxi to reach downtown Amesbury.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), about an hour south by car.

Where to Stay

  • The Inn at Ring’s Island – Boutique inn across the river in Salisbury, with modern rooms and water views.
  • Hampton Inn by Hilton Amesbury – Comfortable, family-friendly hotel right off the highway with free breakfast and a pool.
  • Vacation Rentals & B&Bs – Charming historic homes and riverfront cottages available for rent around town.

Top Attractions

1.Pick Apples, Shop Local, and Enjoy the View at Cider Hill Farm

Pick Apples, Shop Local, and Enjoy the View at Cider Hill Farm

© Cider Hill Farm

Cider Hill Farm is on a mission to grow, cultivate, and nurture food and relationships with their loyal visitors and customers. They are a dedicated farm family that grows peaches, pumpkins, apples, several types of berries and more. Besides growing produce, Cider Hill Farm also brews their own hard ciders using the fruit from their farm. Visitors can drink a refreshing cold cider at the Cider Bar, which is inside the Farm Store. Some events and festivities offered at the farm include a kid’s summer camp and yoga classes held a few times each week, taught by local instructors.

45 Fern Avenue, Amesbury, MA 01913, Phone: 978-388-5525

2.Explore America's Oldest Boat Shop at Lowell’s Boat Shop and Museum

Explore America's Oldest Boat Shop at Lowell’s Boat Shop and Museum

© Lowell's Boat Shop and Museum

Lowell's Boat Shop and Museum was established in 1793. The property where the shop and museum stand was purchased by Simeon Lowell sometime during the 1700s. And today, it stands as the oldest operating boat shop in the United States. Even more, it’s said to be the birthplace of the fishing dory, a small, shallow-draft boat. Every boat is designed and built by skilled craftsman who were all traditionally trained. When customers buy a boat, it gets built in the museum so that guests can see. Finally, the lumber used to construct the boats is locally sourced whenever possible.

459 Main St, Amesbury, MA 01913, Phone: 978-834-0050

Romantic Activities and Attractions:

3.Swim, Kayak, or Relax by the Shore at Lake Gardner

Swim, Kayak, or Relax by the Shore at Lake Gardner

© Cosminxp/stock.adobe.com

Lake Gardner is a long lake that stretches all the way to the New Hampshire border. It’s most commonly used for leisurely recreation. Along the western shore are several beach homes with a public beach near the southern end. Both the northern and eastern shores remain undeveloped. Currently, this land is designated as conservation land that’s dotted with woods and open spaces. When the summer rolls in, many people launch their kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards from the beach. Other people come to Lake Gardner to lounge, swim, and sunbathe. During the summer months, the City provides lifeguards and proper facilities.

80 High St, Amesbury, MA 01913

4.Sip Creative Craft Brews at BareWolf Brewing

Sip Creative Craft Brews at BareWolf Brewing

© Barewolf Brewing

Barewolf Brewing is locally-owned and run by family and friends. They’re best known for their countless varieties of brewed beers. In fact, they rarely make the same beer more than once. All beers get brewed on-site and served up in a living room-style tap room. This brewery is located inside a 4,000 square foot space that’s divided up into a production space, barrel cellar, and a taproom. The Barewolf team created a laid-back environment where patrons not only enjoy their beers, but they can attend open mic nights, live music events, and trivia nights.

12 Oakland St, Amesbury, MA 01913, Phone: 617-435-7950

5.Step Into Colonial History at the Macy-Colby House

Step Into Colonial History at the Macy-Colby House

© Macy-Colby House

The Macy-Colby House is a historical 18th-century saltbox house and museum. It’s been listed on the National Register of Historic Places for over a decade. Its history dates back to the mid-1600s. Thomas Macy built what is now the Macy-Colby House in 1649. He was known as a merchant and weaver but was also a deputy to the General Court, and Amesbury’s first town clerk. In 1654, Thomas Macy sold his home to Anthony Colby. Since then, nine generations of Colby’s lived in this house. And today it’s one of the oldest standing buildings in the state of Massachusetts.

257 Main Street, Amesbury, MA 01913 Phone: 978-388-3054

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Amesbury Riverwalk – A scenic trail for biking and walking that follows the Powwow River through town.
  • Downtown Amesbury – Stroll historic streets filled with local boutiques, cafés, breweries, and galleries.

Where to Eat

  • Crave: Wine • Kitchen • Tap – Stylish downtown bistro offering creative New American fare and craft cocktails.
  • The Noshery – Popular brunch and lunch spot known for fresh sandwiches, baked goods, and great coffee.
  • Barking Dog Bar & Grill – Casual neighborhood favorite with burgers, wings, and rotating beers on tap.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Amesbury Days (Late June–Early July) – A weeklong celebration with fireworks, parades, a block party, and live music.
  • Carriagetown Holiday Stroll (December) – Festive shopping event with lights, carolers, and holiday treats downtown.
  • Craft & Farmer Markets (Spring–Fall) – Regular events at BareWolf Brewing and downtown featuring local vendors and artisans.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Amesbury, Massachusetts:

  • Newburyport (10 min) – Explore the charming harbor, browse boutiques, or dine on fresh seafood along the Merrimack.
  • Portsmouth, NH (20–25 min) – Walk cobblestone streets, visit historic homes, or enjoy the waterfront and craft breweries.
  • Salisbury Beach (15 min) – Soak up sun, listen to live music, or grab a bite on this classic New England beach boardwalk.
  • Hampton Beach, NH (25–30 min) – Lively beach town with concerts, arcades, and oceanfront dining.
  • Maudslay State Park (15 min) – Beautiful riverside park with gardens, trails, and seasonal outdoor performances in Newburyport.

FAQ:

  • Where is Amesbury located?
    • Amesbury is a small community in the northernmost part of Massachusetts, near the New Hampshire border.
  • What rivers run through Amesbury?
    • The town is bordered by the Powow River and the Merrimack River, both of which add to the scenic beauty of the area.
  • Why is Amesbury historically significant?
    • Amesbury is a historically significant town with several landmarks and sites scattered throughout the city.
    • The most notable historic sites include:
      • Macy-Colby House
      • Lowell’s Boat Shop
  • What tourist activities can visitors enjoy in Amesbury?
    • Visitors to Amesbury can experience:
      • Picking fresh fruit from local farms
      • Sampling craft beers from local breweries
      • Swimming in Lake Gardner

Plan Your Trip


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