If you’re looking for a place to visit where you’ll be transported back in time, Ipswich, MA might just be the perfect place.  This charming town, located 35 miles North of Boston, has a rich history and is considered to be one of the best-preserved puritan towns in the country. Ipswich is also home to the oldest operating agricultural and dairy farm and has one of the last surviving, intact American estates from the Gilded Age.

Ipswich is definitely one of my favorite North Shore towns and truly a hidden gem just waiting to be explored. I love that it has such a diverse landscape and so many unique and interesting things to do.  It’s always a delight driving through this rural town and passing by farms with horses grazing in the fields, forests lined with stone walls and the miles of salt marsh in the distance. 

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or just seeking a peaceful escape, there are countless reasons why Ipswich should be on your bucket list.

So what are the best things to do when you visit this rural coastal town?

1. Explore a Grand Mansion

A trip to Ipswich would not be complete without a visit to the Crane Estate. Set on a hill overlooking the Atlantic ocean is Castle Hill, a stunning 59-room mansion which will transport you back to the opulent Gilded Age. This “Great House” was built by Chicago industrialist Richard T. Crane, Jr. in 1924. The mansion was once used as a luxurious summer playhouse where he and his wife Florence frequently entertained fellow aristocrats from Chicago. 

Wander around the property to enjoy its lush gardens and the “Grand Allee”. This majestic rolling lawn stretches half a mile to the bluffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.  There are also trails around the estate where you can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and salt marsh.  

Castle Hill is managed by the Trustees of Reservations.  Various tours are available and there are events held there seasonally. 

Why You Need to Visit Castle Hill on Crane Estate

The Crane Estate 290 Argilla Road, Ipswich; 978-356-4351 

Ipswich Visitor Center Hours: Open 7 days a week Memorial Day through Columbus Day. (978) 356-8540

2. Stop by the Historic Visitor Center

Ipswich has a vibrant downtown area dotted with cozy cafes, bakeries, antique shops and restaurants. Stop by the Ipswich Visitor Center which is located in the historic Hall–Haskell House (1820) on South Main Street to find out what is happening. In addition to serving as a welcoming center, it shares space with an art gallery which showcases artwork from a variety of local & regional artists.  

Stop by this “Little Red House” to grab some maps and brochures and see what is on display.

3. Stick Your Toes in the Soft White Sand

Crane Beach is one of Massachusetts’ most spectacular beaches and a popular attraction in Ipswich. With over four miles of pristine soft white sand, gentle rolling waves and amazing sunsets, it is easy to see why it is so popular.  

To learn more about Crane Beach visit: Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches North of Boston

Crane Beach is managed by the Trustees of Reservations.  

The Crane Estate 290 Argilla Road, Ipswich; 978-356-4351

4. Hike the Dunes

While Crane Beach has miles of beach to walk, the dunes of Castle Rock, adjacent to the beach, are a great alternative for those looking for a little more challenge. Explore over five miles of hiking trails that wind through the sand dunes year-round. This is a great place for a coastal hike and quite a workout given the hills and added rigor of hiking in the sand.

Castle Rock trails at Crane Beach are managed by the Trustees of Reservations who offer guided hikes year round.

The Crane Estate 290 Argilla Road, Ipswich; 978-356-4351 

5. Visit the Oldest Operating Agricultural and Dairy Farm in America

Appleton Farms is the oldest operating agricultural and dairy farm in America. The farm was established in 1638 by Samuel Appleton and maintained by the Appleton family for over nine generations. Today, it is a sustainable farm owned and maintained by the Trustees of Reservations.  

Appleton Farms is such a beautiful and historic property with miles of winding carriage trails, scenic forests and wetlands. As you explore these trails you’ll likely see cows grazing in the fields along with historic buildings and monuments. 

There is always something fun happening down on this family friendly farm – from guided hikes, bird watching events, culinary workshops or educational programs. During the year, the farm also hosts seasonal events like its Maple Sugar Shack, Oktoberfest and its annual Farm Days which is a weekend of live music, food trucks, beer, games and barnyard animals.  

When the weather is good, pop-up events are a common occurrence and the farm serves up fresh baked Wood-Fired Pizza and other seasonal selections made from locally sourced ingredients.     

Before you leave, be sure to stop by the farm store to pick up some fresh, organically grown produce, artisan cheese, fresh milk, baked goods and lots more. 

Appleton Farms is located at 219 County Road, Ipswich, MA and is managed by the Trustees of Reservations.  

6. Pick Your Own Fruit at Russell Orchards

Russell Orchards is one of the most popular pick-your-own farms in Massachusetts. Depending on  the season, you can pick over 30 varieties of apples, as well as strawberries, peaches, blueberries and more. 

The farm store is housed in a beautiful 18 century barn which is stocked with delicious baked goods, fresh fruit and produce and gifts. On the second floor, you can view their collection of antique equipment on display.

Head over to the tasting room and you can order a flight of their award winning wines or hard ciders, all made with their own fruit.    

Of course, a trip to Russell Orchard is not complete without stopping by to visit the farm animals where you can see LuLu the pig, donkeys, goats and more.  Fall is the most popular season to visit and is quite busy – especially on the weekends and during apple picking season.  

Russell Orchards – 143 Argilla Rd., Ipswich, MA

7. Try Some Fresh Local Seafood

Fried clams are one of the North Shore’s specialties and the Clam Box has been serving them since 1935 to locals and visitors alike.  While the clams are definitely the most popular menu item, this place serves all kinds of fresh seafood and the portions are huge. Be prepared to wait as the lines at the Clam Box are almost as legendary as the food.  You won’t be able to miss this nationally recognized New England landmark. Just look for the building that resembles a to-go box with flaps tipped open on the top.

Tip: Order ahead for pickup.  

The Clam Box – 46 High Street, Ipswich, MA

8. Visit an Adorable Farm Stand

Northern Lights Farm is filled with an amazing assortment of fresh produce, organic butters, baked goods and gift items. They also sell homemade Amish products and several varieties of their own honey which they make on the farm. The best part, is walking around the grounds where there are all sorts of animals waiting to greet you. There are beautiful flower fields where you can pick your own or purchase fresh or dried flowers in the store. When you check out, be sure to ask to see the resident guinea pig. The farm stand is located right across the street from the Clam Box.

Northern Lights Farm – 243 High St, Ipswich, MA

9. Eat at a Haunted Historic Restaurant

The 1640 Hart House is a First Period house turned into a quaint and cozy restaurant with incredible comfort food. This historic building is one of the most unique dining experiences on the North Shore with each room offering a distinct atmosphere with some of the oldest standing fireplaces.

The Keepers room is reminiscent of an 18th century cottage and originally served as the kitchen. The Living Room showcases a large colonial fireplace with windows overlooking the garden and has been the source of frequent ghost sightings. 

This elegant country restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday for dinner only.

1640 Hart House – 51 Linebrook Rd. Ipswich, MA

10. Have a Cold One at a Local Brewery

If you’re a craft beer fan, then you’ll love that Ipswich has two awesome breweries with award winning selections.

The Ipswich Ale Brewery has been serving up award winning craft beers and lagers since 1991 and is a local favorite. In 2016, the Brewer’s Table opened where you can grab a bite to eat and watch beer brewing with tables overlooking the brewing floor. 

The Brewer’s Table is open Wednesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. On weekends, you can even take a guided tour of the brewery and of course taste a few samples.

Ipswich Ale Brewery – 2 Brewery Place, Ipswich, MA

True North Ale Company was recently awarded a Gold Medal at the 2023 Great American Beer Festival® (GABF) competition for its Vincianne Belgian Blonde Ale, adding to a long list of accolades. This spacious taproom, opened in 2017 by a father and son, is another local favorite. Grab a cold one while you watch the beer brewing from the huge picture windows. The Brewery is open Wednesday through Sunday and while there is no restaurant, the Big Pig food truck stops by to provide some delicious BBQ fare.

True North Ale Company 116 County Rd, Ipswich, MA

11. Try a “Flight of Mead”

If you’re looking for something a little different, try Mead. The 1634 Meadery is a small medieval themed bar which makes artisan style honey-wine called Mead. This historical drink dates back thousands of years and is created by fermenting fresh, unprocessed honey with water and adding in locally sourced fruits, grains, spices, or hops to create some unique and tasty creations.  Stop by this quaint little tasting room and order a flight to see which one you like best. You’ll definitely want to take home a bottle or two with their creative names like Viking Victory, Beewitched and my favorite winter blend Craneberry. They also make great gifts.

1634 Meandry – 3 Short St., Ipswich, MA

12. Stroll Along the Ipswich River Walk

Hidden off South Main Street across from the Visitor Center is the Ipswich River Walk, a path that takes you over a footbridge and along the Ipswich River. Stroll along the walkway where you can admire the views of the river and get the best viewing point to see the Choate Bridge.

Don’t miss the painted murals on the back side of the Ebsco Publishing building. This charming and enlightening display of public art is Alan Pearsall’s “History of Ipswich” which highlights various points in Ipswich’s history. 

13. Get a Look at the Choate Bridge

The Choate Bridge, in the heart of downtown Ipswich, is considered to be the oldest documented stone arch bridge in the United States. This historic bridge was constructed in 1764 by Colonel John Choate and in 1838, the bridge’s width was doubled. The bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. It has also been named a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers. 

After you get a look at this engineering marvel, head over to the Choate Bridge Pub right next to the bridge for some local seafood or pub food.  

14. Check Out Some Historic Houses 

Ipswich is home to some of the most beautifully preserved historic homes in New England. Not far from the center of town, three of Ipswich’s most popular historical homes surround the Ipswich Museum: the Whipple House (1677), the Heard House (1800), and a replica of the 17th century Alexander Knight House. 

Head over to the Historic Homes District and you’ll find the largest concentration of “First Period” houses (those built between 1625 and 1725) in the country.  To learn all about these historic homes visit Historic Ipswich and download a walking map.  

Walking tours of historic Ipswich are led by local historian Gordon Harris, who tells the stories of the town’s historic houses and the people who lived in them. 

15. Canoe or Kayak on the Ipswich River

If you are up for some outdoor adventure, rent a canoe or kayak and paddle along the serene Ipswich River through beautiful forests, fields and farmlands. With so much undeveloped land along its banks, it is a perfect way to experience nature at its best. Along the way you may get to spot river otters, turtles, and an array of bird species.

Foote Brothers Canoe Rentals is a family-owned and operated business who has been renting canoes on the Ipswich River since 1955 so you’re in good hands here. 

Foote Brothers Canoe Rentals – 230 Topsfield Road  Ipswich, MA   

16. Howl with the Wolves at Wolf Hollow

Wolf Hollow is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating visitors about the important role wolves play in our ecosystem. During the tour you get to observe a pack of North American gray wolves in a confined, but natural, setting and learn how you can help protect this threatened species.

Wolf Hollow 114 Essex Rd., Ipswich, MA

17. Explore the Great Outdoors

With thousands of acres of conservation land and miles of trails, Ipswich is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.   

Willowdale State Forest has 40 miles of trails that are perfect for walking, hiking and mountain biking. In the winter, it is also popular for cross-country skiing. There is a small parking area on Ipswich Road alongside the Ipswich River.

Bradley Palmer State Park is a 721 acre recreation park which was the former estate of noted attorney Bradley Palmer.  The main path is a paved road that runs through the park and is great for walking, rollerblading or biking. Along the way, there is a picnic area with grills, restrooms and a wading pool which is always a hit with the little ones. There are also extensive trails that connect to Willowdale State Forest.  Parking is $5 for residents / $20 non-residents.

18. Stop by the Olde Ipswich Shop & Gallery

Shopping at the Olde Ipswich Shop & Gallery is always an adventure. You’ll love exploring this vintage gift shop with its extensive selection of high-quality antique furniture, vintage home décor and other “Made in America” goods. Pop into the barn and admire the work of artist Johanne Cassia. 

Olde Ipswich Shop & Gallery – 83 County Rd, Ipswich, MA

19. Learn about Ipswich’s History

Visit the Ipswich Museum, to learn about the history of Ipswich and surrounding area through a fascinating collection of artifacts and art. The museum is located across from the 1677 Whipple House and the 1800 Heard House, which serves as their headquarters.

Ipswich Museum – 54 South Main Street, Ipswich, MA

20. Visit One of the Oldest Burying Grounds in America

Established in 1634, the Old North Burying Ground is one of the oldest cemeteries in North America.  Tours of the cemetery generally run in the afternoons during the spring and fall by historian Gordon Harris. The cemetery is located at the intersection of High Street and Route 133/1A.

21. Visit Essex, MA

Essex, MA is Ipswich’s quaint little neighbor and is definitely worth a visit. Just follow Rt. 133 eastbound and you’ll come across some great restaurants, including Woodman’s of Essex, an iconic seafood shack known for their fried clams.

Essex is an antique shopper’s paradise with antique shops of all kinds scattered along the main road. Spend some time poking around the shops and you may just find some hidden treasures.

The Bottom Line

Ipswich, MA may not be the first town you think of when visiting the North Shore but it is certainly a hidden gem. This seaside town has so much to offer – a gorgeous beach, a variety of fun farms, stunning mansion and plenty of historic homes, nature trails and attractions.

Ipswich has approximately 33 square miles of rural landscape which includes forests, fields, farmland, marshes, dunes, and beaches. This rural setting provides beautiful river and ocean views and extensive open space. If you are looking for a traditional New England experience, Ipswich, MA is a great place to visit.

Ipswich is a big town and some of the attractions are spread out so having a car is a must. The best way to get to Ipswich, MA is to follow US-1 N/Newburyport Turnpike to Ipswich Rd which will take you into the downtown.

Why You Need to Visit Castle Hill on the Crane Estate