Newburyport offers different ways to experience culture and outdoor activities: a brick mansion dating from 1808, a museum dedicated to the maritime history of the greater area, and a paved multi-use trail. These are distinct options to consider when planning your visit, depending on your interest in architectural history, exhibitions or activities on the Clipper City Rail Trail.
Architecture and Local History
The Federal-style brick mansion that houses the headquarters of the Museum of Old Newbury was built for Captain William Hunt in 1808. The historic garden is also part of this history: its mid-19th-century design has been restored. The house and garden therefore represent different aspects of the area's history—the construction of a specific building and a later garden design.
The Market Square Historic District offers a different perspective. Its Federalist-style brick buildings form Newburyport's main business district. Compared with an individual mansion, the focus here is on the architectural character of an entire commercial district. Those interested in historic architecture can thus explore two different subjects: a specific building and the appearance of a neighborhood.
Maritime History and Museum Tours
The Custom House Maritime Museum is dedicated to the maritime history of the greater Newburyport area. Its nine galleries tell stories spanning a long period, from 10,000 BC to 1975. This broad timeline gives a visit to the museum a different focus from the architectural history of the Museum of Old Newbury.
Tours led by volunteer museum guides are included with admission; no reservation is required. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. If you plan to take a tour, check the latest visitor information before your visit.
The Trail and Programs at the Joppa Flats Education Center
The Clipper City Rail Trail is a 3.35-mile paved, multi-use trail. Its final sections were completed in 2024. Its length and loop format make it a distinct option alongside the city's museum and architecture attractions.
The Joppa Flats Education Center is a 50-acre site in Newburyport. Programs and features include guided tours, marine-life touch tanks, art exhibitions, drop-in programs and interpretive exhibits. Family-friendly drop-in programs are offered year-round. Since program information may change, check which activities are currently available before your visit.
Connections and Boat Launch
The accessible Ring-&-Ride bus service on Route 51 runs from the Newburyport MBTA Commuter Rail station to the Joppa Flats Education Center. The bus service requires a reservation at least 24 hours in advance. If you plan to use this connection, check the latest reservation information before your trip.
The Cashman Park Boat Launch is just outside downtown Newburyport. The boat launch has 136 parking spaces for boat trailers. This makes it a separate option for visitors planning to bring a boat trailer, distinct from the attractions in the downtown area.
Discover more destinations: Merrimac, Andover, Methuen, Rockport, Newbury, Danvers, Lawrence, Saugus
For the broader travel overview: Essex.
