Things To Do
in Beverly
Beverly, Massachusetts is a historic coastal city on the North Shore known for its maritime heritage and charming downtown. It balances a lively arts and dining scene with easy access to beaches, parks, and nearby cities like Salem and Boston. The Cabot Performing Arts Center and Montserrat College of Art add cultural flavor to the streets lined with historic homes and storefronts.
Visitors can savor seafood, stroll along the harbor, and use Beverly as a convenient base to explore Essex County’s coastal towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Beverly Historical Society, where you can learn about the rich maritime history of the area. After immersing yourself in local history, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with historic homes showcasing Federal and Victorian architecture. Grab a coffee from a nearby café to fuel your morning exploration.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery featuring fresh seafood, a specialty of the region. Post-lunch, head to the picturesque Beverly Common, perfect for a relaxing walk or a peaceful moment under the shade of century-old trees. Don't forget to visit the nearby Cabot Street for unique shops and boutiques offering local crafts and art.
As the sun sets, make your way to the waterfront for a beautiful view of the harbor. Dine at a seaside restaurant where you can enjoy fresh lobster and local dishes while listening to the soothing sounds of waves. Finish your day with a leisurely stroll along the beach, taking in the stars and the gentle ocean breeze.
Kick off your day with breakfast at a beachside café, enjoying ocean views while savoring an omelet and fresh juice. Afterward, head to Dane Street Beach for a morning of sunbathing or swimming in the refreshing Atlantic waters. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a nearby food truck offering delicious tacos or seafood sandwiches. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach or participating in a beach volleyball game with locals. For a change of pace, join a surfing lesson to catch some waves and learn from experienced instructors.
As the afternoon winds down, enjoy a sunset BBQ on the beach, grilling up fresh fish and veggies while soaking in the vibrant colors of the sky. Join in on a beach bonfire, where you can roast marshmallows and share stories with fellow travelers and locals. The sound of laughter and the crackling fire creates a perfect end to a summer day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (monthly) | $1,700-2,400 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $2.80-4.00 |
| 💊Health insurance (monthly) | $200-500 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal location with easy access to beaches and harbor views
- Vibrant downtown with arts, dining, and historic architecture
- Smaller city feel in some areas may mean fewer big-city amenities
- Seasonal tourism can affect crowds and parking
Places to Visit in Beverly
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic green surrounded by mature trees and classic New England architecture; great for daytime portraits and golden-hour shots.
Waterfront views with boats, docks, and sunset reflections; ideal for maritime photography and long exposures.
Brick buildings and a modern gallery-integration feel; strong architectural photography opportunities.
Colorful storefronts and preserved 19th-century architecture along the main commercial corridor.
Food in Beverly
Beverly Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chilled or warm lobster meat on a buttered bun, a North Shore staple available at seaside shacks and harbor-area restaurants.
Must-Try!
Creamy chowder with clams, potatoes, and celery; widely served in local diners and seafood houses.
Crispy, lightly battered clams served with tartar sauce, a classic New England bite.
Seasonal gatherings featuring local shellfish, corn, and potatoes, often found at coastal eateries or events.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with local produce, baked goods, dairy, and prepared foods from area farmers and vendors.
Seasonal pop-ups in and around Cabot Street offering a variety of street-food vendors and small plates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite, friendly greetings are common; small-town courtesy is appreciated in shops and cafés.
Stand in line and wait your turn; patience and civility are valued in busy markets and eateries.
Maintain a respectful tone in public spaces, especially on sidewalks near residences and during evening hours.
Safety
Tipping in Beverly
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 15-20% tip is customary for good service. For bars and counter service, rounding up or leaving small change is common. Tipping at non-dining services (e.g., delivery) is appreciated but not always expected.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is acceptable in most places. Contactless payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are common, and some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild and gradually warming; rain can be frequent early on. Great for outdoor strolls and early-season photography of budding blooms.
Warm to hot days with high humidity; beachgoers and harbor breezes make waterfronts lively. Pack sunscreen and stay hydrated; afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage; perfect for scenic drives around the coast and downtown strolls with golden light.
Cold with the possibility of snow and ice; indoor cultural venues and cozy eateries provide comfortable options. Dress warmly for outdoor walks.
Beverly at Night
Hiking in Beverly
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and a lake in nearby Saugus; a popular spot for hikers and families to enjoy nature close to Beverly.
Extensive network of trails in a large wooded area to explore on a day trip from Beverly.
Sprawling forested area with numerous trails and scenic overlooks, suitable for longer hikes and day trips from Beverly.
Airports
How to reach Beverly by plane.
Small general aviation airport serving the North Shore; convenient for private flights and aviation enthusiasts.
Major international airport located in Boston; extensive domestic and international connections and rail/road links to the region.
Regional hub in Manchester, NH with domestic flights and reasonable drive time to Beverly.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, professionals, students, and long-time residents reflecting a coastal New England town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the region with local leagues and school sports; fans enjoy community gatherings around games.
Common winter sport in the Northeast; local teens and adults participate in leagues and rink games.
Coastal towns in the area celebrate water sports, especially during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beverly.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Beverly eateries offer vegetarian entrees and sides; look for vegetable-forward dishes, salads, pastas, and plant-based options. When in doubt, ask for customizable veggie plates or substitutions.