The Best Plum Island Day Trips in Massachusetts

Newburyport

Located just seven miles northwest of Plum Island, the historic town of Newburyport is a great destination if you're short on time and don't want to travel far. This seaside city combines a coastal vibe with rich history and a fantastic mix of charming architecture, delicious restaurants, and quaint shops. There's no shortage of arts and culture, including highlights like the Firehouse Center for the Performing and Visual Arts, Newburyport Art Association, and the Maudslay Arts Center located in the 480-acre Maudslay State Park.

Gloucester

Gloucester boasts more than 60 miles of coastline, with beautiful beaches, whale and dolphin watching, fascinating museums, bushels of fresh seafood, and nearly 400 years of history, all within 30 miles of Plum Island. This cool coastal town on Cape Ann isn't just a fishermen's haven; it's also home to North America's oldest working artists' colony. Whether you want to browse the galleries, meet the artists at Rocky Neck, book a fishing trip, tour historic lighthouses, or just sample some of what the 120-plus restaurants are serving up, Gloucester's diverse menu of attractions makes it an ideal day trip destination.

Manchester-by-the-Sea

Located at the southern end of Cape Ann, about 27 miles from Plum Island, Manchester-by-the-Sea – made famous by the 2016 film of the same name – is a charming, historic Massachusetts gem. This tiny town spans 8 square miles, with 13 miles of shoreline, including the infamous "Singing Beach," named for the sound of the sand as you walk on it. Get a feel for the town's heritage at the Manchester Historical Museum's Historic Trask House, browse through the eclectic boutiques, or time your visit to coincide with the annual Festival by the Sea, which celebrates local food, art, and music.

Marblehead

There's a lot to love about Marblehead, a charming harbor town located just an hour from Plum Island. Yachters, city dwellers seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of Boston, and history buffs all enjoy spending time here. The famous "The Spirit of '76" painting hangs in Town Hall, and the gorgeously landscaped streets are lined with cozy inns. If you're a fan of walking tours, check out the free self-guided tours through the Historic District to gain a new perspective on this captivating town.

Salem

Old and new collide in the historic town of Salem, about 32 miles south of Plum Island. Infamous for the witch trials held in 1692, the city has plenty of attractions that pay homage to its haunting history, including the Salem Witch Museum, Howard Street Cemetery, where Giles Corey was reportedly pressed to death after refusing to stand trial, and Salem Witch Village. Other historic attractions like the Salem Heritage Trail and Pioneer Village give you a sense of what the early days were like. To see the city's modern side, browse the art at the Peabody Essex Museum, shop at Pickering Wharf, or hit the sand on Dead Horse or Waikiki Beach.

Lawrence

If you've had enough of the coast, consider driving inland about 30 miles to Lawrence, one of the first planned industrial cities in the United States. The main attraction is Lawrence Heritage State Park, which targ'combines outdoor recreation with historic attractions, most notably the restored boarding house that brings the city's history to life with its interactive exhibits. After you learn all about the early mill work, head outside and walk along the canal, or check out Pemberton Park, located off Canal Street, for some fabulous views of the dam and the mills.

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