The seaside town of Marblehead is in Essex County, Massachusetts, United States.
It is perched on a rocky peninsula extending into the Atlantic, featuring some of the most eye-catching and beautiful scenery of northern Massachusetts.
This coastal New England town went through many stages and finally became a seaside resort and prominent yachting.
The Marblehead coastline offers numerous picturesque views for those looking for the perfect photography spot. There are numerous fascinating attractions to explore.
Marblehead’s relaxed New England attitude and beautiful shorelines make it a fantastic place to visit at any time of the year.
Here are some of the best and fun things to do in Marblehead, MA.
Things to Do in Marblehead, MA
1. Catch a glimpse of the magnificent scenery in Fort Sewall
Igal Shkolnik
One of the best places to visit in Marblehead, MA, is Fort Sewall, a historical coast fortress.
It is situated on a point that views the entrance to Marblehead Harbor at Gale’s Head, the northern frontier of the main Marblehead peninsula. It was called Gale’s Head Fort until 1814.
Fort Sewall was transferred to the town in 1992 by the federal government. It still contains the underground rooms and bunkers that accommodated prisoners.
On Sunday, April 3, 1814, Fort Sewall’s most noteworthy historical event happened when the US declared war on the British.
The Navy’s Constitution withdrew back to Marblehead Harbor under the cover of the fort’s gun after being chased by two British frigates.
Fort Sewall was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. The headland, currently a community parkland, offers gorgeous scenery of tourist attractions such as Offshore Island, Marblehead Harbor, the Atlantic, and Cape Ann.
Address: 8 Fort Sewall Ln, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
2. Check out the Old Burial Hill
Old Burial Hill
Old Burial Hill in Marblehead, MA, is a historic cemetery. It is among the earliest cemeteries in New England, established in 1638.
You can get to the cemetery through a walkway at Redd’s Point and a stairway at the Pond and Orne Street Junction.
Numerous well-preserved headstones may be spotted in Old Burial Hill, some dating back to the Seventeenth century.
Their carvings represent religious expression and Puritan aesthetics, and their epitaphs depict the lives of residents, fishermen, spouses and children, and marine captains throughout the Puritan era.
Address: Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
3. Learn history at Marblehead Museum
Marblehead Museum
The goal of the Marblehead Museum is to maintain, conserve, and promote the history of the town to improve the present.
Over 200 privately held colonial-era houses and structures retain the unique features of this New England fishing town and port.
The Marblehead Museum invites visitors of all ages to understand what makes the town unique via creative learning activities.
The museum’s world-class collection and three locations serve as catalysts for activities that connect people to the past and present, expanding their outlook of Marblehead and the world.
This museum, featuring exhibits and programs spanning five hundred years, collects, protects, and explains Marblehead’s local and national importance and its citizens.
Address:170 Washington St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
4. Marvel at the beautiful views of Marblehead Lighthouse
Marblehead Lighthouse is one of the stunning attractions in Marblehead. It is one of the best places to visit in Marblehead, MA.
The first brick tower contained ten lights powered by whale oil within its octagonal lantern, which produced constant white lighting 50 feet above the high groundwater.
The current tower is a skeleton structure constructed in 1895 to replace the earlier brickwork and wooden building constructed in 1835.
Marblehead Light Station is among the 14 pyramid skeleton lighthouses in America.
The Marblehead Lighthouse is the only tower in New England; the next similar one is at Coney Island, New York.
It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in June 1987.
Address: Marblehead, MA, United States
5. Spend a few nights at the Harbor Light Inn
Harbor Light Inn is unique because it is located in one of the best maritime capitals.
It is one of the remaining original seacoast attractions along Massachusetts Bay’s North Shore.
The Harbor Light Inn oozes tenderness, peacefulness, and warmness, much like the constant tempo of a mantelpiece clock.
Even though it contains all the amenities that every first-class Bostom hotel should have, this hotel has its unique taste and personality, distinctive as each of its 20 guest rooms.
Its hand woodwork, artwork, carving, lightning, expertly tooled furniture, and prints embody the riches and fortune brought from different ports and extended years at sea.
There is much more to Harbor Light Inn: the heat of a bedroom fireplace, a proper greeting upon arrival, a hearty brunch meal with poolside and garden views, and the genuine feeling that every visitor is welcome.
Address: 58 Washington St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
6. Pay a visit to Crowninshield Island
Crowninshield Island
One of the best things to do in Marblehead, MA, is to explore Crowninshield Island. The site was formerly known as Brown’s Island.
It was renamed in the memory of Louise du Pont Crowninshield. She was one of the leaders in the historic movement in America from 1925 till her death in 1958.
Crowninshield Island has been overseen by the Trustee of the Reservation since 1955. You will see an open field, a forested hilltop, and a foreshore on this maritime Island in Marblehead Harbor.
This hidden peninsula can only be reached by walking over the shallow water or by boat and walking along a tiny circular track to a forested hilltop.
Walk around the breathtaking views of the harbor, other small islands, and Fort Sewall, and look into tidal pools filled with captivating shells and critters.
Address: Dolliber Cove, Marblehead, MA 01945
7. Eat and take in the fresh air at the Landing Restaurant
Landing Restaurant
The Landing Restaurant on Ancient Marblehead is unique because of its scenic environment and fresh, local dishes with a chef-inspired cuisine.
This restaurant is accessible by water or road. Every seat in their dining room or famous open-air terrace has stunning views of Marblehead Harbor.
The Landing serves salad, salmon, steak, oysters, and other delectables, such as starters, main courses, and mid-course foods.
They serve fresh, healthy seafood, globally-inspired dishes, and gluten and dairy-free options.
Dine in their gorgeously renovated dining room or sit on their patio, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the views while eating your food.
Address 81 Front St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
8. Buy tasty hand-dipped chocolate at Stowaway Sweets
As a long-established local business and institution dating back nearly 100 years, Stowaway Sweets has a merited excellent reputation for its delicious chocolates and remarkable customer service.
For more than 100 years, the generations of a family have been meticulously hand-dipping sweets on-site through the use of their special recipes.
Stowaway Sweets differs from other chocolate businesses due to its attention to detail.
Chocolates are made every day in their on-site factory, situated just below their business. They are not crammed with preservatives, plastics, or chemicals to lengthen their shelf life.
Stowaway Sweets believe that there is only one earth. Hence, they obtain their cocoa and products through sustainable means.
Address:154 Atlantic Ave, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
9. Buy items at Shubie’s Marketplace
Shubie’s Marketplace has been family-owned and operated for over 70 years. Shopping here is one of the top things to do in Marblehead, MA.
They have grown from a typical package shop to include handmade gifts, specialty gourmet dishes, international cheeses, freshly prepared meals, and an extensive assortment of spirits, craft breweries, and wines.
Over the years, Shubie’s passion for foods and wines has captured the eyes of partners Internationally.
They believe their customers are their backbone and are continually grateful for them.
Head to Shubie’s Marketplace to discover why they are famous.
Address: 16 Atlantic Ave, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
10. Partake in various sports activities at Seaside Park
Fort Sewall, Crocker Park, and Bailey’s Headland were the first three parks constructed in Marblehead between 1886 and 1890.
Seaside Park is the largest of Marblehead’s four public areas, spanning over 5.7 hectares and including an early 1900s pavilion facing the baseball field.
The government bought the original piece of land for Seaside Park in 1895 to establish it as a sports complex.
Some fascinating amenities in the Park are the nearby basketball and tennis courts and play areas.
The Seaside Park is well-known for being the motherland of the town’s sporting tradition.
Address 18: Wyman Road Marblehead, MA01945, United States
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11. Enjoy a picnic with your loved ones at Chandler Hovey Park
The 3.74-acre Chandler Hovey Park, known as Lighthouse Point, is a lovely park to visit with family and friends.
Chairs, pavilions, bathrooms, parking, and picnic tables are available at this Park. The Park surrounds the harbor entrance and the coastlines of Beverly and Manchester-By-The-Sea.
The US government originally held it until it was obtained by Marblehead resident Chandler Hovey in 1948. Visitors can also find the Marblehead Light Tower here.
If you enjoy the sights of sea views, moored boats, and ships, you will have a fabulous time at Chandler Hovey Park. Picnicking at this Park is undoubtedly one of the fun things to do in Marblehead, MA.
Address: Lighthouse Ln, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
12. Admire the artwork and exhibition at Abbot Hall Maritime Museum
Abbot Hall Maritime Museum
Abbot Hall was constructed between 1876 and 1877, with the first stage starting in the spring and the final phase ending in the fall.
The building is home to the Town Clerk’s, Selectmen’s, the famous original 1864 Town Deed, the Historical Commission’s office, a Maritime Museum, Spirit of 76 paintings, and other artwork and exhibitions.
At the Marblehead Historical Commission Gift Shop, you will find Marblehead-related things.
Abbot Hall Maritime Museum is open throughout the year, including weekends during tourist season from Memorial Day to October 21.
Add viewing exhibitions at Abbot Hall Maritime Museum to your itinerary of what to do in Marblehead, MA, especially if you’re an art enthusiast.
Address:188 Washington St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
13. Stare at beautiful views while fishing with Sigler Guide Service
One of the fun things to do in Marblehead, MA, is to go on a fishing adventure with Sigler Guide Service
Sigler Guide Services offers supervised Stripped Bass fishing outings, including light gear and fly fishing.
They provide excursions for locals and tourist anglers, including Pick-ups in Marblehead, MA.
Bluefin and shark excursions, offshore bottom fishing, birthday celebrations, kids catching fish, panoramic tours, and lobstering trips are some of their services.
In addition to incredible fishing, the environment is spectacular, and there are other non-fishing activities like exploring beaches, dining in restaurants, antique shopping, and going on history tours.
Find out why Sigler Guide Service has grown to New England’s most prominent fishing charter/guide services
Address: Front St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
14. See the beautiful gardens at Long Hill
The Trustee of the Reservation manages this 114-acre estate that served as the summer house for the Sedgwick family from 1916 to 1979.
The gardens, open to the public, were created by Ellery’s Wife, Mabel Cabot Sedgwick, a famous horticulturist, who penned the book, “The Garden Month by Month.”
The gardens, on five acres and designed casually, comprise a series of “rooms” and feature incredible botanical diversity and a medley of colors.
Long Hills also has over 100 acres of wooded grounds intersected by a tangle of trails leading to an apple orchard and children’s gardens.
Long Hill is in Beverly, MA, 20 minutes from Marblehead, MA.
Address: 572 Essex St, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
15. Stroll through Wyman Woods
Wyman Woods is among the most compelling outdoor destinations to explore in Marblehead, especially for nature lovers.
It is an extensive woodland offering nearly 50 acres with trails to explore, whether on a bike or foot.
The woods also offer some of the finest natural scenery in the city, which varies depending on the season you visit.
Spring and fall are among the best times to stroll at Wyman Wood, where you can admire its eclectic flora.
If you enjoy birdwatching, this is also a terrific place to do it. You wouldn’t want to miss out on the loveliness of Wyman Woods.
Address: Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
16. Enjoy fresh seafood at Little Harbor Lobster Company
Little Harbor Lobster Company, which has existed for over 100 years, supplies the freshest seafood to Marblehead and the nearby coast communities, getting directly from local fishers wherever possible.
Two generations have united to uphold the Marblehead Lobster Company’s heritage, serving Marblehead and the neighboring north coast areas.
They chose the name Little Harbor Lobster Company to celebrate the market’s rich legacy.
From the market, you can see Little Harbor, where the original fish facility in Marblehead was founded and where the first individuals came.
They introduce a distinct, community-based market idea to please old and new customers of the Marblehead Lobster Company.
Little Harbor was established to help the anglers who provide the citizens of Marblehead and nearby areas with the freshest seafood possible.
Address: Address 3Beacon St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
17. Grab something to eat at Sea Salt
Tagliatelle
Sea Salt is a refined American eatery offering superior quality, locally sourced foods and drinks in a friendly environment.
Their purpose is to provide an authentic eating experience for their clients while promoting community interaction.
Whether you want to relax after a long day, hang out with pals, or celebrate a special event, Sea Salt tries to provide exceptional cuisines and drinks in a comfortable environment.
The restaurant is near Harbor Ligh Inn and offers an excellent terrace for outside sitting.
Sea Salt and its expansive food and beverage menu will assuage your appetite.
Address:126 Washington St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
18. Grab a glass of beer at Gentile Brewing Company
This nano craft brewery was established in 2015 and produces delicious, natural beers using English-style brewing techniques and ingredients.
Gentile Brewing Company is in the old Creesy Shoe building, dating back to 1884. The building has served different purposes for over a hundred years.
There are usually up to 24 beers on tap here, in varieties like Helles, Blonde, IPA, Hefeweizen, Porter, Wit, and Stout, as well as alcohol-free options.
The taproom is open from Thursday to Saturday. There is a food truck during the weekend.
Address: 59 Park St #1, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
19. Explore The Jeremiah Lee Mansion
Jeremiah Lee Mansion
This Mansion is a historic house named after its namesake owner, who played an important part in forming Massachusetts. It dates back to Massachusetts’s colonial era.
Jeremiah Lee was regarded as the richest merchant during this time. As a result, his house was one of the most remarkable architectural masterpieces of his time.
Tours are allowed for an inexpensive rate here, so if you are a fan of American history, this is a must-visit.
Even if you are not interested in a tour, you can see the gorgeous façade of the Jeremiah Lee Mansion.
Address:161 Washington St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
20. Take a dip at Devereux Beach
Devereux Beach is at the Southeastern portion of Marblehead overlooking the Massachusetts Bay. Relaxing at this Beach should be on your checklist of what to do in Marblehead, MA.
This beach, located along Ocean Avenue, is among the best places to admire the coastal charm of Marblehead.
While this beach won’t be picturesque due to its absence of fine sand, it still serves if you want to experience the soothing waters that encircle Marblehead.
It is a well-known spot for swimming, as the beach is large and has fantastic waters and gentle waves, making it suitable for kids.
Devereux Beach comprises mainly rocky shores, so it’s also a fascinating place for beach lovers who prefer this aesthetics to the powdery white sand ones.
Address: Marblehead, Massachusetts
21. Bond with nature at Steer Swamp Conservation Area
Steer Swamp Conservation Area, one of the most stunning natural preserves in Massachusetts, is located along the end of Washington Street.
This nature preserve is an underestimated attraction in Marblehead that offers well-maintained trails that lead to gorgeous forestry that houses various animals.
You can find all kinds of terrains here, featuring dense woodlands, tranquil ponds, and rocky creeks.
The eclectic ecosystem makes the Steer Swamp Conservation Area a suitable place to explore and take pictures. You can even take your four-legged friend along for company.
And while it is filled with plenty of things to see, the conservation area isn’t too large and is perfect for any activity.
Address:188 Washington St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
22. Stroll the Fish Flake Hill Historic District
Fish Flake Hill Historic District, the oldest neighborhood in Beverly, is situated on a ridge facing Beverly, MA.
Shipping and fishing were the primary trades in this part of the city, and the neighborhood acquired its name from the table “flakes” utilized for the fish drying yards that were available until the end of the 1800s.
The Fish Flake Hill Historic District contains over 150 contributing properties, an impressive portion of which goes back to the Colonial era.
Sixteen houses in this district are famous for having ties to ship captains during the Revolutionary War.
Address: Beverly, MA, United States
23. See art exhibitions at Montserrat College of Art Galleries
In the center of Beverly, you will come across the Monstettrat College of Art campus, which was established in 1970.
This college is home to six galleries open to the public for free. They include the President’s Gallery, the Bare Gallery, the Paul M. Scott Library Gallery, the Founders Gallery, and the Frame 301 Gallery.
These galleries host creative modern art exhibitions, which showcase national and international artists from upcoming to established.
Previous shows have featured works by Vanessa Platakis, Cynthia von Buhler, Clint Baclawski, and Leigh Wiener.
Address: 301 Cabot St, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
24. Watch boats at the scenic Village Street Dock
You can find the Village Street Dock on the eastern end of Marblehead, across from Devereux Beach. It is a well-known place for boats to dock.
It is located by the coves of Marblehead’s Salem Sound and facing away from Massachusetts Bay,
You will be captivated by the view at Village Street Dock, as it’s spread out with all kinds of yachts and boats.
This is one of the best places in Marblehead to take pictures of the seaside, especially since it has a scenic boardwalk.
Village Street Dock is also a private spot to watch sunsets, suitable for a casual date.
Watching boats at Village Street Dock should be on your list of the top things to do in Marblehead, MA.
Address 163 Village St, Marblehead, MA 01945, United States
25. Learn about the witch trials at Hale Farm
Hale Farm
Hale Farm, managed by Historic Beverly, is where you can uncover the city’s connection with the witch hunts of the 1960s.
The John Hale House, constructed around 1694, was the residence of Minister Rev John Hale, who had been famous in the Salem witch trials in 1962.
He is believed to have questioned his role after his wife was charged with witchcraft. While residing at this property, he authored a book, “A Modest Inquiry into the Nature of Witchcraft.”- which criticized his associates at the trials.
Hale Farm is a famous wedding venue, and the grounds are used for outdoor events during the summer.
Inside, you can learn about the house’s different building stages, explore period furnishings, and see a room dedicated to witch trials.
Address: 39 Hale St, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Marblehead
Marblehead is famous for its unmatched services to the American Revolution and Civil War.
This unique seaside town is worth visiting because it offers many attractions to everyone, whether a nature lover or a history buff.
It is easy to see why Marblehead is considered one of the best places to visit and explore in the state.
To experience the charm of this beautiful town, start planning your trip to Marblehead today.