Quick Summary:

  • Essex is a lovely coastal town in Essex County, located less than half an hour north of Boston.
  • The city is known as a former center for shipbuilding in the United States and is home to the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, which preserves historic schooners and ship hulls.
  • More than five dozen antique stores are showcased through the city's quaint downtown village, earning it a reputation as one of New England's top antiquing towns.
  • Some of New England's top seafood restaurants are also located within the town.


  • Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Cogswell Grant ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Cogswell Grant | What is There to See and Do in Essex, Massachusetts
© Cogswell Grant

2. The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Attractions
The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum | What is There to See and Do in Essex, Massachusetts
© The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum

3. Crane Wildlife Refuge

Category: Activities
Crane Wildlife Refuge | What is There to See and Do in Essex, Massachusetts
© danflcreativo/stock.adobe.com

4. Cape Ann Golf Club

Cape Ann Golf Club | What is There to See and Do in Essex, Massachusetts
© Cape Ann Golf Club

5. Cape Ann Stand Up Paddleboards

Tours
Cape Ann Stand Up Paddleboards | What is There to See and Do in Essex, Massachusetts
© Cape Ann Stand Up Paddleboards

6. CK Pearl

CK Pearl | What is There to See and Do in Essex, Massachusetts
© CK Pearl

7. Stavros Reservation

Category: Activities
Stavros Reservation | What is There to See and Do in Essex, Massachusetts
© Eleonora/stock.adobe.com

Summary & FAQ Cogswell Grant The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum Crane Wildlife Refuge Cape Ann Golf Club Cape Ann Stand Up Paddleboards CK Pearl Stavros Reservation

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