The North of Boston region is home to the 34 cities and towns of Essex County. Each town offers its own unique character and charm. Located only minutes from Logan International Airport and the city of Boston, the region offers 5,000-plus guest rooms, 200 miles of coastline, numerous restaurants, cultural sites, attractions, performing arts venues, and more! From the beaches of Salisbury to historic Salem, the rocky shores of Gloucester to the industrial city of Haverhill, come explore and discover!
Set Sail on Adventure
See locations of Hollywood movies such as The Perfect Storm, Manchester by the Sea, Hocus Pocus, The Proposal, The Witches of Eastwick, and many more. See the boats from National Geographic’s hit television show Wicked Tuna at the Cape Ann Marina. Don’t forget to pack your camera as you get up close to see Right Whales, Humpback Whales, and Atlantic White-Sided Dolphins on a whale-watching excursion or sail the ocean blue on a schooner.
Celebrate the North of Boston region’s rich maritime history in our coastal towns. Drive along the Essex County Scenic Byway. This 90-mile roadway links 14 coastal communities from Lynn to Salisbury featuring period architecture, scenic views, recreational opportunities and historic sites. Newburyport is home of the U.S. Coast Guard. Gloucester is America’s oldest seaport. Visit Salem Maritime National Historic Site, which includes the Custom House and a replica of the tall ship, Friendship of Salem.
The North of Boston region is a year-round destination. In the fall enjoy spectacular foliage, pick your own pumpkins, apples, berries or flowers. Enjoy cider donuts and a variety of cheeses at area farms. Explore America’s oldest agricultural fair at the Topsfield Fair, and be entertained at Salem’s Haunted Happenings month-long celebration. In the winter months, sit by a cozy fire at one of our many charming inns and travel the region to participate in many holiday festivities.
For more information about the North of Boston region, visit northofboston.org/itineraries-self-guided-tours.
