Things To Do
in Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts is a historic mill city on the Merrimack River, known for its canal system and textile heritage. Today it blends world-class arts, universities, and riverfront parks, creating a compact, walkable downtown with a lively cultural scene. Visitors can explore the Lowell National Historical Park, browse galleries on Central Street, and enjoy a waterfront stroll along the canals.
The city serves as a gateway to the Merrimack Valley, offering easy access to Boston and a variety of outdoor and educational experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Lowell National Historical Park, where you can explore the rich industrial history of this vibrant city. Take a guided tour to learn about the revolutionary textile mills that once thrived here. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, fueling up for the day ahead.
After lunch, dive into the cultural scene at the Tsongas Center for Community Action for a glimpse of local art and history. The afternoon is perfect for walking along the Merrimack Riverwalk, enjoying scenic views while absorbing the beauty of the area. You might want to stop by the New England Quilt Museum for a unique perspective on American craftsmanship.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at one of Lowell’s renowned restaurants featuring local fare. Experience the vibrant nightlife with live music or a performance at the Merrimack Repertory Theatre. End your evening with a peaceful stroll around the canal district, connecting the past with the present.
Begin your morning at the Pollard Memorial Library, where you can appreciate its beautiful architecture and explore its unique collections. Following this, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby bakery known for their delicious pastries. Take some time to reflect on the city's literary heritage before embarking on your next adventure.
Spend your afternoon at the Boott Cotton Mills Museum, where interactive exhibits bring the story of Lowell’s industrial past to life. Have a leisurely lunch at a local diner, experiencing the charm of the city while enjoying hearty American classics. With the afternoon energy, walk through the vibrant streets, taking in the murals and public art displays.
For dinner, visit a local pub that boasts a cozy atmosphere and celebrates regional craft beers. Afterward, attend a concert at the Lowell Auditorium for a dose of live entertainment. Wind down the day at a nearby café, sipping coffee and enjoying the friendly local vibe.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transit fare (monthly pass) | $70-100 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,600-2,200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic mill town with a strong arts and campus scene
- Compact, walkable downtown with riverfront charm
- Smaller nightlife compared to big cities
- Parking and peak-hour traffic can be challenging
Places to Visit in Lowell
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic red-brick mills along the canals with water features and historic machinery—a classic Lowell photo subject.
Picturesque waterway views, iron bridges, and reflective canal scenes along the historic canalways.
Lively park space with murals on brick walls and a river backdrop—great for urban portrait and detail shots.
Food in Lowell
Lowell Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy, chunky chowder featuring clams, potatoes, and onions; widely available at seafood spots and seafood-focused eateries.
Must-Try!
Chilled or warm lobster meat on a buttered roll, a staple at seafood shacks and lunch spots near the river.
A classic New England dish often found on menus at waterfront restaurants and casual bistros.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, prepared foods, and artisanal goods downtown.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for reservations and meetings; lateness can be viewed as disrespectful.
Follow rules at museums and parks; do not touch exhibits where prohibited.
Safety
Tipping in Lowell
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tip typically 15-20% at restaurants; $1-2 per drink at bars is common.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common at most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with humidity; outdoor events and riverfront walks are popular. Afternoon showers are possible; wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for canal and city photography walks and outdoor dining.
Cold with occasional snow; many outdoor spaces become quiet, but museums and cafés offer indoor warmth.
Mild temperatures and budding greenery; great for park strolls and market openings as fresh produce arrives.
Lowell at Night
Hiking in Lowell
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trail network with lakes, viewpoints, and waterfalls; a short drive north of Lowell.
Forested trails and family-friendly loops suitable for a quick day hike.
Open fields and gentle trails, plus farm scenery nearby.
Airports
How to reach Lowell by plane.
Major international airport serving Boston and the New England region.
Smaller regional airport located to the north with intercity flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student population due to several colleges in and around Lowell.
Diverse communities contribute to the city’s cultural mix.
Growing presence adding to the local culture and cuisine scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
University and local leagues are active; college games draw crowds in nearby arenas.
Community leagues and college games in the region.
Youth and adult leagues; outdoor fields are common in surrounding towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lowell.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie-friendly options on menus, ask for meatless dishes, and enjoy abundant produce at farmers markets and cafes.