10 Best Things to Do in Beverly, Massachusetts

By VacationIdea Staff on August 2, 2023 - Updated

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Beverly, Massachusetts was once known as the Ryal Side, or Bass River Side, of infamous Salem, MA. After the Witch Trials, Beverly wished to separate itself from Salem, and in 1753, successfully succeeded in becoming its own town.

While it maintains the small-town charm, Beverly is home to a large city population of over 39,500. There is a rich history for visitors to explore, though Beverly also is home to some stunning New England landscapes and outdoor retreats.

1. The Cabot, Beverly, Massachusetts

One of the few movie palaces still around in America, The Cabot is a Vaudeville stage and movie theater wrapped into one. Over the history of the 1920s theater, several owners have taken a stab at rebranding The Cabot, but today, it still stands with its primary purpose: to show movies and shows in style. Today’s guests can visit The Cabot for one of the fantastic shows, musical acts, comedies, or performances held throughout the week. Depending on when you visit, you may be able to see a live show or an affordable second-run of popular movies. More things to do in Massachusetts

286 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA 01915, Phone: 978-927-3100

2. Things to Do in Beverly, Massachusetts: Larcom Theatre

Built in 1912, Larcom Theatre Music and Performing Arts is another stage and screen theater in the Beverly area. It was named after Beverly-local poet and author, Lucy Larcom. Today, Larcom Theatre houses many cultural pieces and is currently family-owned. Music performances are less mainstream and instead look at music as a cultural piece, showcasing tributes to the greats, Like Sinatra, Peggy Lee, and Bob Marley. Comedy shows and variety acts are always changing. Culture hits its peak at Larcom with first-run plays and dance recitals. Be sure to plan ahead since the theatre’s capacity tops out at 600 for an intimate experience.

13 Wallis Street, Beverly, MA 01915, Phone: 978-922-6313

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3. Things to Do in Beverly, Massachusetts: Historic Beverly John Cabot House

John Cabot built his home on Cabot Street in 1781. Today, the Historic Beverly John Cabot House is a part of the Historic Beverly group, which also includes the Balch House and Hale Farm, both built in the 17th century. Cabot house was the first brick mansion built in the area during the Revolutionary War and stands as a testament to the period. Different exhibits are held at Cabot House, including “Emerging from Salem’s Shadow” and “Set at Liberty” (about slavery in Beverly). When in Beverly, consider visiting all three homes to capture the feeling of early America.

117 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA 01915, Phone: 978-922-1186

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4. Toscana Bar Italiano, Beverly, Massachusetts

Toscana Bar Italiano is the sister gastro bar to Toscana Ristorante located in Peabody, MA. Toscana strives for local, fresh ingredients that come from no further than a day’s drive away. For example, most seafood if from local fisherman, the honey if farmed by one of the employees, and the coffee beans are roasted in Salem. All food, like pasta, is handmade and never frozen. Be sure when you’re there to try the scallop risotto, pasta boscaiola, gnocchi fritti, or the stuffed long stem artichokes to name just a few. Then, be sure to order one of the house drinks, like a house-made ginger beer cocktail.

90 Rantoul Street, Beverly, MA 01960, Phone: 978-969-0165

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5. Porter Mill Studio

Dating back to 1895, the historic Porter Mill building has housed many Beverly businesses over the years. When you visit today you will find a thriving arts community occupying the building. There are over 50 individual artists’ studios where talented Beverly artists can give free reign to their creativity. Just about all genres of artistic endeavor are to be found including painting, photography, sculpture, print-making, textile design and many more. Although the studios are not always open to the public, they do host regular exhibitions and an open house twice a year when visitors are welcome to tour the studios, meet the artists and buy a wide range of beautiful art works.

Porter Mill Studio, 95 Rantoul Street, Beverly, MA 01915, 978 921 1117

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6. A&B Burgers, Beverly, Massachusetts

Named after their sons, Alex and Ben, A&B Burgers is the brainchild of Amy Constant and Thomas Holland. The restaurant wants to provide more than a casual burger experience with fine dining recipes, such as the sweet and salty burger, which includes fig jam, bacon, arugula, and burrata cheese. Just as spectacular as the burger options are the side options. Sweet potato fries and fried pickles are fantastic, but the bacon truffle fries really shine with any sandwich choice. A&B Burgers also serves up share plates, entrees, and a full bar with house cocktails.

206 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA 01915, Phone: 978-993-7394

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7. Clay Dreaming Pottery Studio

Beverly’s Clay Dreaming Pottery Studio offers an inspiring studio area where potters and artists can meet and have fun. The studio offers lessons for all ages and abilities and you do not need to have any prior experience. Clay Dreaming also offers after-school classes for teens and for children as young as 5 years of age. Once you have made your masterpiece you get the chance to hand-paint it before it heads off to the kiln. If you prefer not to get involved in the pottery process you can visit the studio to hand-paint ready-made pottery articles – these make unique gifts for family and friends.

Clay Dreaming Pottery Studio, 186 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA 01915, 978 927 1414

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8. Things to Do in Beverly, MA: North Shore Music Center

Bringing the joy and excitement of live performance to Beverly, the North Shore Music Center produces a full calendar of top-class entertainment all year round. The list of shows always includes several productions aimed at younger audiences as well as musical tributes to your favorite stars and uplifting musical shows. The center has several lobby concessions stands where you can purchase drinks, snacks and candy during intermission. During the summer season you can dine alfresco at the Garden Bistro before or after the show. Visitors are invited to come and join in the fun – you can book individual tickets online or buy a season ticket.

North Shore Music Center, 54 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA 01915, 978 232 7200

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9. Things to Do in Beverly, MA: Beverly Golf and Tennis Club

Built in 1910, the clubhouse of the Beverly Golf and Tennis Club was originally a social and recreational facility for the employees of the United Shoe Machinery Company who owned the grounds until 1971. Today the premises have been transformed into a very elegant clubhouse surrounded by a manicured 18-hole golf course and 10 clay tennis courts. The golf course promises an enjoyable and challenging round for golfers of all abilities. After your round you can enjoy a relaxing drink in the 19th Hole Pub (inside the historic Clubhouse). If you would like to improve your golf or tennis skills you can sign up for a variety of lessons or clinics.

Beverly Golf and Tennis Club, 31 Tozer Road, Beverly, MA 01915, 978 927 0102

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10. Long Hill and the Sedgwick Gardens

The Sedgwick Gardens at Long Hill are over 100 years old and are essential viewing for all garden and nature enthusiasts. Long Hill was the summer residence of the Sedgwick family and today the garden showcases the talents of the two extraordinary women who were responsible for designing and caring for this national gem. Today the garden is not just a beautiful place to admire but also serves as an educational resource, offering a variety of lectures, workshops and school programs. In addition to the landscaped gardens visitors can also enjoy exploring a 1.2 mile woodland loop trail. Guided tours of the garden can be arranged.

Long Hill and the Sedgwick Gardens, 572 Essex Street, Beverley, MA 01915, 978 921 1944

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