WE LOVE NEWBURYPORT

Posted on Sep 05, 2023

We had already fallen in love with Newburyport, MA when we decided to open a shop there this spring, and as our first summer season comes to a close, we’re more impressed than ever by this beautiful, historic seaport city. It’s a wonderful place for residents and visitors alike, with a super friendly vibe, and tons to do, see, eat and discover—so we thought we’d share our top picks for must-go spots in Newburyport.

DOWNTOWN NEWBURYPORT

OVERVIEW

This picturesque small city sits just 35 miles north of Boston, with easy access to some of the most popular destinations in New England—Portsmouth NH, Kennebunkport ME, and Portland ME. The summers have a balmy salt breeze, fall is crisp and cool with apple picking, pumpkins and beautiful foliage, the winter holidays are like a storybook with little twinkling lights and carolers, and the spring is bright and green with apple blossoms and daffodils everywhere. There’s never a bad time to visit Newburyport.

PLUM ISLAND ROASTERS COFFEE

BUTTERMILK BAKING COMPANY

BREAKFAST

Leallo is located in the center of town, at 15 State Street, so mornings often take us to Plum Island Coffee, at the corner of State and Water, for their outstanding lattes and friendly service—the line is often out the door so head over early. We also love Changing Tides, the Coffee Factory and Olives for coffee, Abe’s (Abrahams Bagels & Pizza) has the best bagels in town, then Buttermilk Baking Co. and the Cookie Jar Kitchen are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth craving.

MAUDSLAY STATE PARK

WEEKENDS

Weekends are typically spent at Plum Island Beach, Riverwalk Brewing Co. or bopping around town. We also love exploring the walking trails at Maudslay State Park, it’s an absolute gem. Sundays are for the Farmer’s Market at the Tannery Marketplace, where you’ll find the most incredible local treats and treasures. Also check out the Plum Island Lighthouse, local Museums, and the Newburyport Art Association.

THE NOOK PLAY CENTER

KIDS & FAMILIES

Newburyport is incredibly family friendly, with a drop-in play center called The Nook in the heart of town (perfect for littles.) The Metro Rock Climbing Gym, Tinkerhaus for hands-on creating, plus lots of green space for frisbee and wiffelball, and bike trails for navigating around town. You’ll also find endless camps, clubs and community activities through Newburyport Youth Services, and lots of dance and theater classes around town. Tweens cruising around town with their friends even find that the local businesses are super friendly, offering free water and a place to hang out even if they’re all sharing the same cookie. It’s just an exceptional place for kids all around.

BRINE OYSTER, CRUDO & CHOPS (NEXT TO LEALLO)

DINING

Leallo is right next door to three of our top restaurant picks—Brine (New England’s first Oyster, Crudo and Chop Bar, elevated and chic) Carmine (outstanding Italian soul food), and The Paddle Inn (a cozy neighborhood spot with an eclectic, Asian-fusion menu and great cocktails.) We also love Bar25’s swanky atmosphere for dinner or happy hour (their sister restaurant in Salisbury, Sin a Loa is a fav for tacos and margaritas.) Then The Poynt has amazing innovative cocktails and fresh New England fare with a twist.