Things to do in Essex, MA
There is so much to do in Essex, Massachusetts. From the beaches and hiking trails to the active towns and nature centers, this beautiful New England town has something for everyone. If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Essex, check out our list of kid-friendly activities. From live music festivals to circus shows and family-friendly events, these are all great options for exploring with the little ones. Read on for ideas on what to see and do in Essex!
Explore the Beaches
As you drive around the New England coastline, you’ll notice how close the beaches are to the ocean. With many white sand beaches, you can spend your summer days lounging in the sun, swimming, and fishing. There are also plenty of beaches for camping, hiking, rock climbing, and more. There are also plenty of shaded beaches for those that want to stay cool. Whether you like to stay near the Atlantic coast or head to the more protected coastline in the north, you’ll have many beaches to choose from.
Catch a Live Show
Live music festivals are a great way to catch a show while still enjoying the beach or pool. From blues to folk and reggae, the many live music festivals in Essex offer a wide range of sounds. Head to a music festival during the warmer months when crowds are low and you can often catch the performers earlier in the day. There are also many free outdoor theatre performances in Essex during the summer. Albany, Northfield, and Worcester are especially known for their outdoor theatre offerings.
Take a Hike
Whether you prefer a long, challenging hike or an easy stroll along a nature trail, there are many hiking opportunities in Essex. Many of the nature centers in the area offer guided hikes. For a more active adventure, head to the White Mountains, the Berkshires, or Cape Cod for hiking and climbing opportunities. You can also explore nearby islands for hiking trails. If you’re looking for a family-friendly hiking option, head to the Essex State Forest. The forest is home to a wide range of hiking options. More great information on Tree Service.
Go to an Outdoor Festival
Many towns host outdoor festivals throughout the summer. These events are great for exploring the town while sampling food from local vendors, listening to music, and enjoying art and craft shows. Explore the local arts and crafts at an outdoor festival like you would at a local farmers’ market. At many outdoor festivals, you can also take part in a scavenger hunt or other activity to make the event more fun for the whole family. There are many outdoor festivals in Essex, so be sure to check the festival calendar or ask around for recommendations. Learn more here.
Visit the Nature Centers
There are a number of nature centers in Essex that offer hands-on activities and exhibits for visitors of all ages. Look for nature centers with naturalist-led tours, where you can learn about local plants and animals. Nature centers often organize educational programs and summer field trips for kids. You can also enjoy exhibits, hands-on activities, and live animal shows. If you’re visiting during the summer, check the nature centers’ calendars to see what’s on. You can also explore nearby parks and forests, where there are often nature centers, on recreation trails, and at visitor centers.
Point of Interest #1 The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, 66, 28 Main St, Essex, MA 01929, United States
Point of Interest #2 Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, 290 Argilla Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938, United States
Point of Interest #3 Hammond Castle Museum, 80 Hesperus Ave, Gloucester, MA 01930, United States