North Andover

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with North Andover's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Adventure
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Art and Culture Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a trendy café known for its artisanal coffee and creative brunch options. Afterward, visit the local art galleries, where you can admire works from regional artists and perhaps even chat with some of them. Make sure to check for any special exhibitions or events that might be taking place.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling dishes inspired by the diverse culture of the area. Post-lunch, visit the North Andover Public Library, where you can read about local history or attend a scheduled workshop. Spend the afternoon exploring the town’s murals and public art installations, taking time to appreciate the creativity on display.

evening
:

As evening falls, dine at a restaurant known for its artistic ambiance and creative dishes. Consider attending a local theater production or concert to immerse yourself in the local performing arts scene. Wrap up the night with a visit to a local pub for some live music and vibrant atmosphere.

day 4
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Kick off the day with a family breakfast at a popular diner, where everyone can choose their favorite breakfast items. After filling up, head to the North Andover Recreation Department for a variety of family-friendly activities, including sports and games. Spend some time exploring the playgrounds and facilities available for kids of all ages.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the local parks, perhaps the North Andover Town Park, where the kids can play while you relax. After lunch, consider visiting the local bowling alley for some friendly competition or try mini-golf for a fun family outing. Make sure to take lots of pictures to capture the smiles and laughter.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a kid-friendly restaurant with a fun atmosphere and a menu that caters to all ages. Afterward, take a family walk around the neighborhood, stopping for ice cream at a local shop as a sweet treat. End the day with a family movie night at home, featuring everyone’s favorite films.

day 5
Day at the Beach
morning
:

Start your beach day with breakfast at home, packing a cooler with snacks and drinks for the day ahead. Head to nearby beaches like Plum Island or Salisbury Beach, where you can enjoy the sun and sand. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles with the family.

afternoon
:

Take a break for a picnic lunch on the beach, enjoying the ocean breeze and the sound of the waves. After lunch, engage in beach games such as volleyball, frisbee, or beachcombing for shells and interesting rocks. Don't forget to take breaks to relax and soak up the sun.

evening
:

As the day winds down, watch the sunset over the ocean, a perfect way to end a fun-filled day. Head to a nearby seafood restaurant for a delicious dinner featuring fresh catches of the day. Finish off your beach day with a stroll along the shore, enjoying the cool evening breeze.

day 6
Local Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local bakery, indulging in fresh-baked goods and coffee. Afterward, take a culinary tour of North Andover, visiting farmer's markets to explore local produce and artisanal products. Engage with vendors and learn about their offerings for a truly immersive experience.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, where you can savor dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. After lunch, participate in a cooking class at a local culinary school, learning new skills and recipes from experienced chefs. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the local food culture.

evening
:

For dinner, return to one of the local restaurants to enjoy a multi-course meal that highlights regional flavors. Consider pairing your meal with local wines or craft beers to elevate the dining experience. Wrap up the night with dessert from a local chocolatier or ice cream shop, indulging in sweet treats.

day 7
Outdoor Sports and Recreation
morning
:

Start your active day with a hearty breakfast at home or a local café before heading to the North Andover Sports Complex. Spend the morning engaging in various sports activities, such as soccer, basketball, or tennis, enjoying the friendly competition. Don't forget to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

afternoon
:

After a busy morning, refuel with lunch from a nearby sandwich shop, grabbing quick bites to keep your energy up. Spend the afternoon exploring local trails on a bicycle or hiking, taking in the natural beauty of the area. Engage in outdoor games with friends or family, making the most of the beautiful weather.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, enjoy dinner at a local grill or pub, celebrating your active day with hearty meals. After dinner, consider heading to a nearby park for some evening frisbee or a casual game of catch. End your day with a relaxing evening at home, sharing stories of your favorite moments from the day.

day 8
Shopping and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café, sipping coffee while planning your shopping route. Explore the local shops in the downtown area, where you can find unique gifts, handmade crafts, and boutique clothing. Take your time browsing, enjoying the quaint atmosphere of the town.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a casual meal at a local eatery that offers a variety of options to suit all tastes. After lunch, treat yourself to some pampering at a local spa, indulging in a massage or facial to unwind. Spend the afternoon leisurely shopping or exploring any remaining shops on your list.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, dine at a restaurant known for its cozy ambiance and delicious cuisine. Consider catching a movie at a nearby theater or attending a local event or festival if available. End your day with a peaceful walk through the town, reflecting on your relaxing day of shopping and self-care.

day 9
Festival and Community Engagement
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at home before heading out to a local festival or community event. Enjoy the atmosphere filled with music, art, and local vendors showcasing their crafts and food. Spend the morning browsing stalls and engaging with the community, soaking in the lively energy.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch from one of the food vendors at the festival, trying out local specialties and treats. Participate in various activities offered at the festival, like workshops, games, or performances, allowing yourself to immerse fully in the community spirit. Capture the fun moments with photos to remember the day.

evening
:

As the festival winds down, find a nearby restaurant for dinner, reflecting on the day's activities with friends or family. Attend any evening performances or entertainment planned as part of the festival, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll through the festival grounds as the lights twinkle around you.

Discover North Andover

Read more in our North Andover 2025 Travel Guide.

North Andover Travel Guide