Bring the family for a nature-themed Halloween at the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary this October. This charming, not-so-spooky event invites visitors to take a hoot-i-ful woodland walk and learn about nocturnal (costumed) animals that live at the sanctuary.
A sweet stroll with a purpose— The Chocolate Tour is a community-driven tasting experience through the charming streets of downtown Amesbury and Newburyport. Local shops serve up chocolate delights while you explore, shop, and support amazing causes.
Even sweeter? Every ticket helps fund local nonprofits—so while you indulge, you're also giving back to the community.
Experience the WOW factor when you climb up Gloucester’s City Hall clock and bell tower and emerge at the bell level. Views, weather permitting, are awesome. Members of Gloucester’s City Hall Restoration Commission will be on hand to inform you of the history of this architecturally significant building that had graced Gloucester’s skyline for more than 150 years. Please note that while the tower is not handicapped accessible the WPA Murals in City Hall are accessible and are one, if not, the best collection of WPA murals in the Commonwealth.
Spend a day with the Trustees of Reservations in celebration of Choate Island – the crown jewel of the Crane Wildlife Refuge. Here deer and foxes roam through fields that once housed herds of sheep, and osprey fly over breathtaking views of Essex Bay. The island was first home to indigenous farmers and fishers, then to generations of the Choate family, and was later a retreat for Cornelius and Miné Crane, who loved the place so much they decided to be buried at the summit.
Do you believe in Ghosts? If you do then join the Essex County Ghost Project and Witches Wonder fort a spooktacular evening of haunts and fun . The gates open at 6:30 pm and hunt starts at 7pm . We are exploring one of New England’s most Haunted historical sites . There have been reports of full and partial body apparitions, voices , shadow figures and more . So pack up your cameras , pendulums, digital recorders and other paranormal equipment for a night of paranormal history and intrigue .
Join Amesbury Carriage Museum for a hands-on fun-filled day for the whole family at our Open House! Try out our hand-powered machines – test your skills at drilling or winding a bobbin, just like workers did in the mills! Check out our Children’s Corner, designed especially for young visitors, featuring a weaving wall, a hand-powered conveyor belt, and an Amesbury-themed train table. Our exhibits are always changing – discover something new as you explore the people, stories, and innovations that shaped our community.
Step inside the historic Plum Island lighthouse! Sign up for a free, 15-minute tour by visiting www.friendsofplumislandlight.org. The Trails & Sails tour date is on Sept 20th by appointment. Tours are dependent on weather and rain dates are not available.
Learn about the natural world in Saugus while ecploring the park ground ast the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site in Massachusetts.
This popular hike is back again and has been going for over a decade! Join the park interpreter for a moderately paced walk each week to view different areas of the park and experience the seasonal changes at Maudslay. For Ages 6 & up
Visit Valley View Farm to learn about Essex County's largest farmstead goat cheese maker. See nubian goat herd, learn about cheesemaking, see the cheese cave and sample cheeses. Cheese and farm products available to purchase.
