Looking for New England charm, historic roots, and natural beauty? Head to Andover, Massachusetts! This scenic town north of Boston offers leafy streets, Revolutionary history, and cultural landmarks. Whether you're hiking through forests or exploring Main Street, Andover delivers classic Massachusetts appeal.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Andover is in spring and fall (April–June and September–October). These seasons showcase blooming gardens, fall foliage, and comfortable temperatures. Summer is great for outdoor events, while winters are crisp and festive.
How to Get There
- By Car: Andover is located along I-93 and I-495, about 30 minutes north of Boston.
- By Train: The MBTA Commuter Rail (Haverhill Line) stops in downtown Andover with direct service to Boston’s North Station.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), roughly 40 minutes away by car.
Where to Stay
- Andover Inn – Elegant inn located on the Phillips Academy campus, offering classic New England charm and fine dining.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Andover – Comfortable, full-service hotel with a pool and on-site restaurant.
- Residence Inn by Marriott – Extended-stay option with suites and kitchenettes, ideal for families and business travelers.
Top Attractions
1. Admire Masterworks and American Vision at the Addison Gallery of American Art
The Addison Gallery of American Art is an academic museum and falls under the auspices of the Phillips Academy. Thomas Cochran, a former student of the Academy funded its establishment in 1931, to permanently enrich the lives of students. There are now 17500 works in various forms in the museum, such as paintings, sculptures, photographs and scale models of ships. The collections are displayed by means of rotating exhibitions. Tours, talks and lectures fulfill the museum's mandate to interpret, exhibit and educate. The public is welcome and admission is free. The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
180 Main Street, Andover, MA 01810-4161, Phone: 978-749-4015
2. Hike to Scenic Hilltops and Rolling Meadows at Charles W. Ward Reservation
The initial 153 acres of land for the reserve were donated by the Charles Ward's widow in 1940. The family have subsequently donated parcels of land, bringing the total to 704 acres. Thirteen miles of trails link three major hills. There are also 17 miles of stone walls. The terrain is diverse and incorporates creeks, wetlands and swamps. Plant life peculiar to the swamps, such as orchids and the insect-eating pitcher plant, can be seen. Numbered stations that correspond to an interpretive booklet are used for self-guided walks at the Charles W. Ward Reservation.
Attractions for Couples
3. Sip Local Craft Beers With Character at Oak and Iron Brewing Company
The Oak and Iron Brewing Company is Andover's hometown brewing company. Flavorful, handcrafted beer is served in a spacious social setting. Alcohol contents vary with the Queen of Hearts coming out on top at 9%. The beer is brewed in small batches and can be enjoyed on a bar stool around a beer barrel table or outside in the beer garden, next to the Shawsheen River. Small meals that complement the beer are sold on site or patrons can order from the scheduled food trucks. Oktoberfest is held in fall and there are music evenings throughout the year. The shop sells Oak and Iron apparel.
18 Red Spring Rd, Andover, MA 01810, Phone: 978-475-4077
4. Walk or Ride a Slice of New England on the Bay Circuit Trail
It has taken generations of dedication by volunteers to coordinate the 200 mile long Bay Circuit Trail. The 'emerald necklace' that runs through 37 towns, forms an arc of greenspace around Boston. It is now possible to walk, run, cycle or snowshoe from the coast north of Boston to the coast on the south. There are numerous attractions and transport links along the way. For those spending many days on the trail, there are restaurants, camping locations and hotels. The trail also connects to other long-distance trails. An interactive map is available for mobile phones.
5. Golf, Dine, or Celebrate in Style at Andover Country Club
In 1925, local businessman, William Wood bought Chandler farm and transformed it into a USGA Championship golf course and country club. The Spanish-style clubhouse was erected in 1926 and still serves that purpose. In 1979, the Cormier family took ownership and initially added an inn with 24 rooms and a casual dining room. They then added family-oriented amenities such as a swimming pool and sprayground, tennis and basketball courts, and a practice area for golf. The facility is well suited to hosting weddings, indoors and outdoors and the bridal couple receives a complementary room for their wedding night.
Andover Country Club, 60 Canterbury Street, Andover, Massachusetts 01810, Phone: 978-475-1263
Where to Eat
6. Gather Around Hearty Italian Fare at The Chateau - Italian Family Dining
Mary and Joseph Nocera immigrated to the USA from Sicily in 1912. With a passion to share the food of their native country, they opened a small restaurant in 1933 with 13 bar stools. The second generation took over in the 1950s and expanded the 350 seat restaurant to 800. The third generation opened a second restaurant in 1986. With the fourth generation emerging and more family members joining, more restaurants were needed and now there are eight, all maintaining the authenticity and quality that gave them their initial success. The Andover Chateau restaurant is open 7 days a week.
Chateau - Italian Family Dining, 131 River Road, Andover, MA 01810, Phone: 978-687-2442
7. Fuel Up With Coffee and Pastries at Perfecto’s Caffe
In 1993, brothers Andrea and Max Gabriello combined their baking skills and business acumen to open the first Perfecto's Caffe. Today, there are 5 Caffes and the Gabriellos are offering franchise options. All the baked goods, such as bagels, biscotti and muffins, are handmade on site. Eight different coffee blends are served each day and there are 30 varieties of coffee beans for sale. Iced coffees and fruit smoothies are also on the menu. Perfecto's has received several awards, including Max's title as 'National Barista Cup Champion'. Perfecto's is open from 6 am to 6 pm on weekdays and closes earlier on weekends.
Perfecto's Caffe, 79 North Main Street, Andover MA 01810, Phone: 978-749-7022
Best for Garden Lovers
8. If You Love Historic Gardens, Visit the Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens
Explore the former summer home of John Gardner Coolidge, and his wife, Helen Stevens Coolidge, at the Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens. A descendant of Thomas Jefferson and a beloved nephew to Isabella Stewart Gardner, John Coolidge, and his family resided in the former farm-turned-20th-century estate from 1914 to 1962. Apart from exploring the beautifully manicured gardens and the well-preserved interiors of the house, visitors can also explore trails around the grounds and gardens care of free trail maps being distributed at the grounds’ parking area. Guests who want to visit this historic 91-acre residence and grounds can do so during the Spring and Summer months by booking a visit ahead of time.
153 Chickering Road, North Andover, Massachusetts 01845, Phone: 978-689-9105
More Places to Eat
- LaRosa’s – Upscale casual Italian-American bistro with handmade pasta, craft cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere.
- Yella on the Water – Mediterranean-inspired menu with creative dishes and waterfront views.
- Elm Square Oyster Co. – Chic spot for seafood, steaks, and raw bar favorites in the heart of downtown.
Local Events
- Andover Farmers Market (June–October) – Weekly outdoor market with local produce, artisanal goods, and live music.
- Andover Days (September) – Community celebration featuring food, crafts, music, and family activities downtown.
- Holiday Happenings (December) – Festive events, tree lighting, and carriage rides to celebrate the season.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Andover, Massachusetts
- Harold Parker State Forest (10–15 min) – Hike wooded trails, fish quiet ponds, or bike through over 3,000 acres of peaceful forestland.
- Ward Reservation (10–15 min) – Climb Holt Hill for sweeping views, spot wildflowers, and walk through the Solstice Stones meadow.
- Lawrence Heritage State Park (10–15 min) – Learn about the city’s industrial past and enjoy a riverside walk along the Merrimack River.
- Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens (10–15 min) – Tour historic gardens, formal grounds, and elegant 20th-century estate architecture in North Andover.
- Smolak Farms (15–20 min) – Pick your own fruit, visit farm animals, and enjoy seasonal treats and hayrides with family-friendly fun.
- Canal Street Antique Mall (10–15 min) – Hunt for vintage treasures, collectibles, and furniture in a sprawling mill building in Lawrence.
- Weir Hill Reservation (10–15 min) – Hike scenic ridgeline trails with lake views and fall foliage highlights near North Andover.
- American Textile History Museum (Lowell) (25–30 min) – Though currently closed, the nearby Lowell area still offers walking tours, mills, and cultural exhibits on textile history.
FAQ
- Where is Andover located?
- Andover is situated on the outskirts of Boston.
- When was Andover settled?
- It was settled in 1642.
- Why did early settlers move to Andover?
- Early settlers were attracted to the area by being given a tax exemption for three years.
- How was Andover formed separately from North Andover?
- Andover split from what is now North Andover when parishioners insisted it was too far to go to church in the north and established their own.
- How was Andover connected to the Salem witch trials?
- Andover is close to Salem and became embroiled in the witch trials of the late 17th century.
- What role did the American Woolen Company play in Andover's history?
- In the 20th century, the American Woolen Company established a model industrial village in Andover, which included 200 houses.
- What happened to the American Woolen Company houses?
- These houses were sold when the company closed and are now residences and business premises.
At a Glance
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and inviting parks. | Andover Inn – Historic charm located near Phillips Academy campus. | Explore Ward Reservation – Enjoy scenic trails, wildlife, and stunning hilltop views. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm days perfect for outdoor activities and town events. | Courtyard by Marriott Boston Andover – Comfortable rooms with easy access to local attractions. | Visit Harold Parker State Forest – Ideal for hiking, biking, swimming, and picnics. |
| Fall (September-November) – Crisp weather, vibrant autumn foliage, and community events. | Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston/Andover – Spacious suites conveniently located. | Tour downtown Andover – Browse boutique shops, local cafes, and historic sites amid beautiful foliage. |
| Winter (December-February) – Cold, snowy weather, perfect for cozy indoor activities. | Residence Inn Boston Andover – Comfortable accommodations with extended-stay amenities. | Enjoy nearby skiing at Bradford Ski Area – Family-friendly skiing and snowboarding just minutes away. |
Unique Attractions
Map:
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