Things To Do
in North Andover
North Andover is a historic New England town in Essex County, Massachusetts, combining colonial-era charm, leafy residential neighborhoods, and a small downtown with local shops and cafés. The town is surrounded by conservation land and state forests, making it a popular base for hiking, paddling, and birdwatching. North Andover has notable historic sites such as the Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens and a well-preserved town common that reflect its 18th- and 19th-century roots.
It’s a quieter alternative to nearby Andover and Lawrence while still offering easy access to Boston and the Merrimack Valley region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of North Andover, admiring the charming colonial architecture and historical markers. Visit the North Andover Historical Society to learn more about the rich history of the area.
Grab lunch at a nearby bistro, where you can savor regional specialties. Post-lunch, head over to the Stevens-Coolidge Place, a beautiful estate with stunning gardens, perfect for a relaxing walk among the flowers and trees. Don't forget to take photos of the picturesque landscape and historical architecture.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the Merrimack River, soaking in the serene atmosphere and beautiful views. End your evening with a visit to a local brewery to sample craft beers and unwind.
Begin your day with an energizing breakfast at home or a local diner before heading to Harold Parker State Forest. Spend the morning hiking the scenic trails, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Bring along binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the forest's designated picnic areas, surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature. Continue your adventure with a leisurely hike to one of the forest's ponds, where you can relax and possibly spot some turtles or frogs. Take some time to reflect and appreciate the peaceful environment.
Return to North Andover for dinner at a cozy restaurant, where you can share stories from your day. After dinner, consider visiting a local park for a sunset walk, allowing the beautiful colors of the sky to enhance your experience. Conclude your evening with a cup of hot chocolate at a local café, reminiscing about the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-200 |
| 🚕Short taxi / rideshare | $10-30 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly, basic) | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic New England charm with well-preserved sites and gardens
- Close to outdoor recreation areas and scenic trails
- Short drive to Boston and other Merrimack Valley towns
- Friendly, family-oriented community and slower pace
- Limited nightlife and late-night dining options
- Public transit options are more limited compared with urban centers
- Winters can be cold and snowy, impacting travel plans
- Some attractions are seasonal and close in the off-season
Places to Visit in North Andover
Visit one of these nice places.
Formal gardens, period architecture and seasonal plantings provide colorful, structured compositions ideal for portrait and landscape shots.
Rolling hills, rocky outcrops and old stone walls overlooking wetlands and fields — excellent for sunrise, fall foliage and wildlife photography.
Picturesque river banks, historic buildings and a classic New England town common make for charming street and architectural photography.
Large forested areas, ponds and trails; good for nature, macro, and long-exposure photography near still waters.
Food in North Andover
North Andover Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy chowder with clams, potatoes and onions; available at many local restaurants and seasonal seafood spots in the Merrimack Valley.
Must-Try!
Cold lobster salad or warm buttered lobster on a split-top roll; best found at seafood counters and summer markets in the region.
Seasonal berries, corn and apple pies from local farms and farmstands; visit during summer and fall for the best picks.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers markets and roadside farmstands offer fresh produce, baked goods and prepared foods; check summer/fall schedules for pop-up markets in town and nearby Andover.
Larger town markets in nearby communities offer international eats and street-food style vendors on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals tend to be friendly but reserved; polite small talk and respect for personal space are appreciated.
Many sites are privately owned or protected — stick to marked trails, don’t climb on historic structures, and follow signage at gardens and reservations.
North Andover is residential in many parts; keep noise down in neighborhoods, especially at night.
Safety
Tipping in North Andover
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in the United States: 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for takeout or delivery. Tip hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides when service is provided.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry a small amount of cash for farmers markets, some small vendors, or tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild and increasingly green; trails can be muddy early in the season, and late frosts occur. Good time for bird migration and blossoming gardens.
Warm and humid with long daylight hours; ideal for outdoor recreation, farmers markets and pond swimming. Expect higher visitor numbers on weekends.
Cooler temperatures and brilliant fall foliage from late September through October; one of the best times for hiking and scenic drives.
Cold with regular snow and ice; snow sports are possible nearby, but prepare for icy roads and shorter daylight. Dress in layers and check road conditions before traveling.
North Andover at Night
Hiking in North Andover
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short loop trails, rocky summits and open meadows with excellent views and birdwatching opportunities; good for families and photographers.
Large forest with numerous trails, ponds and multi-use paths for hiking, mountain biking and snowshoeing.
Historic estate and natural area with walking trails, open fields and scenic overlooks; pleasant for shorter hikes and picnics.
Scenic park with carriage roads, woodlands and waterfront on the Ipswich River; popular with walkers, cyclists and equestrians.
Airports
How to reach North Andover by plane.
Primary international airport serving Boston, about 30–50 minutes by car depending on traffic; offers extensive domestic and international connections and public transit options into the region.
Secondary airport in Manchester, New Hampshire, roughly 50–70 minutes by car; useful for some domestic flights and lower-cost carriers.
Providence airport in Rhode Island, about 1–1.5 hours by car; another option for domestic flights and sometimes less busy than Logan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Established multi-generational households and long-term residents who contribute to the town’s historic character and civic life.
Professionals who commute to Boston and surrounding employment centers, attracted by suburban neighborhoods and easy highway access.
Increasing cultural and ethnic diversity, with Hispanic/Latino and immigrant communities enriching local culture and cuisine.
A mix of families drawn by schools and parks and retirees preferring the quieter, small-town environment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Youth and high school sports are a big part of community life, with football, soccer, baseball and lacrosse especially popular in spring and fall.
Ice hockey is widely played and followed at youth and amateur levels in the region during winter months.
Road running, local races and cycling are common pastimes given the many trails and scenic backroads.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting North Andover.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafés and many restaurants offer vegetarian options (salads, pasta, veggie burgers). Calling ahead is helpful for prepared specialty dishes.
Vegan options exist but are more limited; look for plant-based bowls, salads and some vegan baked goods at cafés and health-focused spots in nearby larger towns.
Gluten-free menus or accommodations are commonly available upon request, especially at mid-range restaurants; always notify staff about severe allergies.