Amesbury is historic, coastal, and full of character. If you are planning a visit and searching for the Best Things to Do in Amesbury, you will quickly realise this North Shore town offers far more than quiet New England streets. From waterfront walks and colonial landmarks to nearby beaches and vibrant dining spots, Amesbury blends maritime heritage with small-town charm.
Located in northeastern Massachusetts near the New Hampshire border, Amesbury sits along the Merrimack River and just minutes from the Atlantic coastline. The Best Thing to Do in Amesbury combine riverside scenery, historic architecture, outdoor adventure, and easy access to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches.
The strength of the Best Thing to Do in Amesbury lies in variety. You can stroll cobblestone-style streets in the morning, kayak along the river in the afternoon, and enjoy fresh seafood by evening. This structured guide will help you plan a balanced and memorable visit.
Historic and Cultural Best Things to Do in Amesbury
Amesbury’s colonial roots and maritime connections shape many of the Best Things to Do in Amesbury. Walking through town feels like stepping into layers of New England history, where early industry and coastal trade helped define the region.
1. Explore Downtown Amesbury
Downtown Amesbury is filled with brick buildings, boutique shops, art studios, and locally owned restaurants. Walking through this historic centre is one of the charming Best Thing to Do in Amesbury.
The streets reflect the town’s industrial past while embracing a modern creative spirit. Seasonal festivals, art walks, and open studio events bring energy to the area throughout the year. Small cafés and galleries invite you to linger rather than rush.
Spending time downtown captures the heart of the Best Thing to Do in Amesbury, blending history with everyday community life.
2. Visit the Amesbury Carriage Museum
Amesbury Carriage Museum highlights the town’s once-thriving carriage manufacturing industry. Visiting this museum is among the educational Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
In the 19th century, Amesbury became one of the leading carriage production centres in the country. Exhibits explain how skilled craftsmanship and innovation shaped the local economy before the rise of the automobile.
Historic tools, models, and photographs provide insight into daily life during the industrial era. Including the Amesbury Carriage Museum among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury adds meaningful historical context to your visit.
3. Discover the Macy-Colby House
Macy-Colby House dates back to the 17th century and stands as one of the town’s oldest preserved homes. Touring it adds colonial depth to the Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
The house showcases original architectural features and period furnishings that reflect early New England living. Guided tours often share stories of the families who lived there and the broader history of the region.
Walking through its rooms offers a tangible connection to Amesbury’s beginnings. Including the Macy-Colby House among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury highlights the town’s long-standing heritage.
Waterfront and Outdoor Best Things to Do in Amesbury
Waterfront access defines many of the scenic Best Things to Do in Amesbury, giving visitors a chance to experience the town’s natural beauty alongside its history.
4. Walk Along the Merrimack River
Merrimack River flows beside Amesbury and offers peaceful views of boats, marshlands, and distant shoreline communities. Walking along the riverfront is one of the refreshing Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
Small parks and benches provide quiet places to pause and enjoy the scenery. Early morning and sunset walks are especially appealing, when the light reflects off the water.
Including a riverside stroll among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury blends relaxation with natural charm.
5. Kayak on the Merrimack River
Paddling along the Merrimack provides a hands-on outdoor experience and ranks among the active Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
Local outfitters offer kayak rentals, making it easy for beginners to explore calm sections of the river. As you paddle, you may spot seabirds and enjoy wide-open sky views.
Kayaking allows you to experience the town from a different perspective. Adding this activity to the Best Things to Do in Amesbury creates both adventure and memorable scenery.
6. Visit Cider Hill Farm
Cider Hill Farm offers seasonal fruit picking, farm events, and fresh local produce. Visiting this family-run farm ranks among the family-friendly Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
Autumn apple picking and fresh cider are especially popular, while summer brings berries and open fields filled with greenery. Farm stands sell baked goods and regional treats that reflect the area’s agricultural heritage.
Including Cider Hill Farm among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury adds rural charm and seasonal variety to your visit.
Nearby Coastal Exploration Best Things to Do in Amesbury
Amesbury’s position near the Atlantic coastline greatly expands the variety within the Best Things to Do in Amesbury. Within minutes, you can move from riverside scenery to open ocean beaches, salt marshes, and classic harbour towns.
7. Visit Salisbury Beach
Salisbury Beach is only a short drive from Amesbury. Spending time here ranks among the classic coastal Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
The wide sandy shoreline is ideal for walking, sunbathing, and swimming during warmer months. Early mornings are especially peaceful, while summer afternoons bring a lively beach atmosphere.
Seasonal arcades and small eateries add a nostalgic New England seaside feel. Including Salisbury Beach among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury gives you easy access to traditional Atlantic coastline charm.
8. Explore Plum Island
Plum Island offers dunes, wildlife habitats, and sweeping ocean views. Visiting this barrier island ranks among the scenic Best Things to Do in Amesbury area.
Parts of the island are protected for conservation, creating quiet stretches of sand and opportunities for birdwatching. Walking along the shoreline provides open horizons and refreshing sea breezes.
Plum Island’s natural setting contrasts nicely with downtown Amesbury’s historic streets. Adding it to the Best Things to Do in Amesbury ensures a balance of culture and coastal beauty.
9. Discover Newburyport Waterfront
Newburyport sits just across the Merrimack River and features marinas, boutique shops, and harbourfront dining. Exploring this vibrant town enhances the regional Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
Brick sidewalks and historic buildings create a picturesque setting along the water. Visitors can browse local shops, enjoy seafood overlooking the marina, or simply watch sailboats drift in and out of the harbour.
Including Newburyport among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury adds energy and variety while keeping you close to your base.
Nature and Scenic Best Things to Do in Amesbury
Beyond the coastline, wooded parks, rivers, and lakes shape many of the relaxing Best Things to Do in Amesbury. These natural settings offer quiet escapes and scenic variety throughout the year.
10. Explore Maudslay State Park
Maudslay State Park lies just outside Amesbury and features formal gardens, open meadows, and wooded trails. Visiting this park adds natural variety to the Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
The park is known for its landscaped grounds and stone structures, remnants of a former estate. Walking paths wind through forests and along the Merrimack River, providing both shaded trails and open viewpoints.
Spring blossoms and autumn foliage make Maudslay especially scenic during seasonal transitions. Including it among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury ensures a peaceful outdoor experience close to town.
11. Hike Powwow River Trails
Powwow River flows through wooded areas that provide quiet walking routes. Hiking along these trails is one of the peaceful Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
The paths follow the river’s gentle course, offering shaded sections and occasional open clearings. Birdsong and flowing water create a calm atmosphere ideal for reflective walks.
Because the trails are accessible yet not heavily crowded, they appeal to visitors seeking tranquillity. Adding the Powwow River area to the Best Things to Do in Amesbury list highlights the town’s understated natural beauty.
12. Visit Lake Gardner
Lake Gardner offers swimming, kayaking, and boating during summer months. Spending time here expands the outdoor Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
The lake provides a freshwater alternative to nearby ocean beaches. Its calm surface makes it suitable for families and beginner paddlers.
On warm days, the shoreline becomes a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Including Lake Gardner among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury balances coastal exploration with inland recreation.
Food and Drink Best Things to Do in Amesbury
Amesbury’s dining scene reflects its riverside setting and coastal proximity. Exploring local flavours is an essential part of the Best Things to Do in Amesbury, especially for visitors who appreciate fresh seafood and welcoming neighbourhood spots.
13. Dine at Riverside Restaurants
Seafood and classic American cuisine define many dining experiences within the Best Things to Do in Amesbury. Restaurants near the Merrimack River offer views of boats and calm water while serving lobster rolls, fried clams, chowder, and seasonal specials.
Outdoor patios become especially popular in warmer months, allowing guests to enjoy sunset views along the river. Menus often feature locally sourced ingredients and daily catches that reflect the region’s maritime identity.
Including riverside dining among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury combines scenery with flavour, creating a memorable evening experience.
14. Visit Local Breweries
Craft breweries contribute to the social side of the Best Things to Do in Amesbury. Small taprooms in and around Amesbury offer a rotating selection of IPAs, lagers, and seasonal brews.
Many breweries provide relaxed seating, live music nights, and community events. Sampling locally crafted beer after a day of sightseeing adds a casual, friendly element to your visit.
Adding brewery stops to the Best Things to Do in Amesbury introduces variety and highlights the creative spirit of the North Shore.
15. Enjoy Coffee at Independent Cafés
Relaxing in an independent café rounds out the laid-back Best Things to Do in Amesbury. Cosy coffee shops in the downtown area serve freshly brewed espresso, pastries, and light lunch options.
These cafés often double as community gathering spaces where residents meet, read, or work remotely. Large windows and comfortable seating create an inviting atmosphere that encourages you to slow down.
Including a coffee break among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury ensures your trip feels balanced and unhurried, reflecting the town’s welcoming pace.
Family-Friendly Best Things to Do in Amesbury
Amesbury offers a welcoming atmosphere for families, with seasonal celebrations, parks, and nearby educational attractions that make many of the Best Things to Do in Amesbury enjoyable for all ages.
16. Attend Amesbury Days Festival
Amesbury Days is one of the town’s most anticipated annual celebrations. Attending it is among the lively Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
The festival typically includes parades, live music, family activities, and fireworks. Streets fill with residents and visitors enjoying food vendors and local entertainment. The strong sense of community makes the event feel personal rather than commercial.
Including Amesbury Days among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury adds seasonal excitement and a true local experience.
17. Explore Amesbury Town Park
Amesbury Town Park provides playgrounds, open fields, and picnic areas. Spending time here is one of the easygoing Best Things to Do in Amesbury for families.
Children can enjoy the play structures while adults relax at shaded tables. The park’s accessible layout makes it ideal for casual afternoons or short breaks between sightseeing stops.
Adding Amesbury Town Park to the Best Things to Do in Amesbury list ensures a comfortable and low-cost family activity.
18. Visit the Custom House Maritime Museum (Nearby)
Custom House Maritime Museum, located in nearby Newburyport, adds educational interest to the regional Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
The museum highlights maritime history through exhibits on shipbuilding, navigation, and coastal trade. Interactive displays make it engaging for children as well as adults.
Including this stop among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury balances outdoor fun with meaningful learning.
Scenic Drives and Day Trips Best Things to Do in Amesbury
Amesbury’s location makes it easy to explore beyond town limits. Coastal roads and nearby cities broaden the range of the Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
19. Drive Along Route 1A Coastal Highway
Route 1A runs along sections of the Massachusetts and New Hampshire coastline. Taking this scenic drive enhances the broader Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
The road passes beaches, marshlands, and small seaside communities. Pull-off spots allow you to stop for photographs or short shoreline walks.
Including this drive among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury adds visual variety and relaxed exploration.
20. Visit Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth lies just north of Amesbury and offers waterfront charm, historic buildings, and vibrant dining. Visiting Portsmouth expands the cultural dimension of the Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
Cobblestone streets, harbour views, and boutique shops create a lively yet walkable setting. The city’s maritime history complements Amesbury’s own riverfront heritage.
Adding Portsmouth to your itinerary strengthens the regional appeal of the Best Things to Do in Amesbury.
21. Explore Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach provides classic boardwalk entertainment and sweeping ocean views. Exploring this beach ranks among the energetic coastal Best Things to Do in Amesbury area.
During summer, live music, arcades, and seaside restaurants create a festive atmosphere. Off-season visits offer quieter shoreline walks and open horizons.
Including Hampton Beach among the Best Things to Do in Amesbury ensures your trip blends small-town charm with vibrant seaside experiences.
Must Read:
Conclusion:
Amesbury blends history, riverfront scenery, and coastal access in a compact and welcoming setting. When exploring the Best Things to Do in Amesbury, you experience colonial homes, sandy beaches, scenic trails, and lively festivals within minutes of each other.
The diversity within the Best Things to Do in Amesbury makes it ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers. Whether you visit for outdoor adventure, seaside relaxation, or small-town culture, Amesbury offers an authentic North Shore experience that feels both peaceful and vibrant.
