One of the most underrated places in all of Massachusetts is definitely Marblehead – a beautiful coastal town on the North shore just minutes from Salem, and a less than an hour from Boston. Marblehead is a place I love to visit for its incredible history, waterfront views, boutique shopping, charming streets, wonderful dining options, and a more laid-back vibe. I often describe Marblehead as a less-crowded and smaller version of Salem, without lacking in things to do and exciting places to check out.
Having visited Marblehead so many times throughout my 20+ years traveling New England, I’m excited to share this insider’s guide to the town, which includes my can’t-miss things to see, my favorite shops, and tips for your visit.
With that, let’s get started!
New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our Privacy Policy.
Best Things To Do In Marblehead, MA
1. Meander Through The Historic District
Without a doubt, the one place you don’t want to skip in town is the historic district, where you’ll find over 200 homes with rich history dating back to Revolutionary War times. For history lovers, the town has recently created a self-guided walking tour map you can use to explore them all yourself.
→ Click here for the Marblehead walking tour map of historic homes
The historic part of Marblehead is such a fun and interesting experience because many of the houses are painted in different colors, and since they were built in the 1600-1700’s, they often all facing different directions, and not always perfectly lined up along the streets – it almost looks like a little jigsaw puzzle, which is the case for a lot of older towns. Honestly, I just love to wander throughout the streets here and admire the houses.
Each historic home will also have a plaque that tells you the date the house was built, and often will share the original owner’s name and occupation.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking to see the oldest house in Marblehead, look for the Ambrose Gale House, which was built in 1663, and can be found at 17 Franklin Street.
2. Visit The Museums Inside The Old Town Hall House
One of the most historically significant landmarks in Marblehead is the Old Town House, located in the heart of the historic district on Washington Street – you can’t miss it when walking around.
Built in 1727, it’s one of the oldest public buildings in continuous civic use in the country. The building once served as the town’s seat of government and even hosted protests leading up to the American Revolution. Today, the upstairs still hosts local government meetings, while the lower level houses the Marblehead Museum’s exhibits, offering a fascinating look into the town’s colonial and maritime history.
Inside the museum area, you’ll find artifacts, portraits, and documents that trace the lives of early Marblehead residents. Particularly compelling are exhibits related to the town’s Revolutionary War contributions and seafaring heritage.
Best of all, admission to the museum inside the Old Town House is free, making this a very budget-friendly stop to make.
3. Enjoy The Views From Fort Sewall
It’s not a visit to Marblehead without admiring the harbor views from Fort Seawall, which makes this stop equally as impressive for both history and coastal lovers.
Overlooking Marblehead Harbor, this 17th-century fort played a key role in protecting the coastline during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Today, it offers panoramic views of the harbor, walking paths, and grassy areas perfect for taking a moment to appreciate its past and scenic views.
The fort has also been undergoing rehabilitation over the years, and the preserved bunkers inside the fort are now open to the public to explore, where you can also read interpretive signs detailing the site’s military history.
Best of all, it’s free to visit and open year-round.
Pro Tip: There’s a public bathroom at Fort Sewall in case you gotta go during your visit!
4. See The Lighthouse at Chandler Hovey Park
You can actually see Marblehead Lighthouse from a few different places around town, but if you want to get up close, be sure to visit Chandler Hovey Park, which offers both up-close views of the lighthouse, and more amazing coastal scenery around the harbor.
As one of the best attractions to do in Marblehead, MA, the Lighthouse might be a bit different than what you’re probably picturing. But it’s unique in that it’s the only pyramidal skeletal lighthouse still standing in all of New England. Because of its structure, you can’t go up the tower, but instead, you can walk right through it and its base.
Chandler Hovey Park is also beautiful, offering benches to sit and enjoy the sound of the crashing waves and views of the town of Marblehead from across the water. You could even pack a picnic and enjoy lunch here as well.
Pro Tip: The park has its own parking lot, which is small, but I’ve always been able to find a spot (sometimes in the summer months on a Saturday it’s the last spot available, but still 😉)
5. Enjoy The Sunrise And Views From Castle Rock
Not far from Chandler Hovey Park is one of the most scenic places to see in Marblehead (which is saying a lot since the entire town is pretty scenic) – Castle Rock.
This is an lovely stretch of rocky coastline that provides amazing sunrises over the water. But don’t worry if you’re not an early riser, it’s beautiful at any point throughout the day.
Originally used as a lookout for pirates, as well as French and British invasions, it’s now one of the best hidden gems in town. You can head down to the beach area to take in views from the small shoreline, or you can climb the tallest rock formation and feel like you’re standing above the entire town. If you do this, just be sure to wear the proper footwear, be safe and take your time. It’s also not a good idea to attempt this if the rock is wet and slippery.
Pro Tip: To get to Castle Rock, you’ll want to park on the street near 377 Ocean Avenue, and then take the little path next to Carcassonne Mansion that will lead you to the water. It’s kind of hidden, but you’ll be able to find it.
6. Stroll The Shops Downtown
Marblehead is a pretty underrated shopping destination, and I’ve never left without at least a coupe shopping bags full of great finds.
Marblehead’s shopping areas are divided into two different sections, both of which are walkable from each other: The historic area, and Atlantic Ave.
In the historic area, you’ll find quite a few places to visit, and some of my favorites are:
→ Saltwater Books: Opened in 2022, this little bookshop is small enough to not feel overwhelming, but offers a wonderful mix of titles. I love love their cute little tote bags (which I now own).
→ F.L. Woods Nautical Merchants: It’s been a Marblehead staple since 1938, and they specialize in maritime goods, local artwork, and locally-made knits (seriously, made right in Marblehead!). It’s the perfect spot for browsing unique, locally inspired gifts and timeless New England style.
→ Liberty Henry & Me: A great shop to look for a cool gift for someone. They specialize in embroidery, and while they have a bunch of their designs on display (like baseball hats and such), you can actually request a custom piece, too! The gentleman working there told me turn-around time is usually two hours, so it’ll be ready for you by the end of the day.
→ The Spotted Hound, which is a lovely boutique featuring a mix of antiques and perfectly-curated home finds in a beautifully-designed space.
A short walk from the historic district will bring you along Atlantic Ave, where you’ll find more great shops. My favorites in this area are:
→ Shubie’s: A combined specialty grocery market and mini housewares shop, and such a cool place to check out. I always end up getting stuff to take home from Shubie’s, including local beer/hard cider, gourmet foods, and some of their home décor.
→ Maison de Mer: A wonderful French-country inspired housewares boutique that’s super fun to browse!
→ Sweetwater Trading Company: A lovely little gift shop that also has some locally-branded things (like Marblehead sweatshirts and such).
Psst! Out shopping, and seeing CBYC-branded things? Not sure what it means? I’m happy to share, because it’s actually pretty awesome: ally-branded things (like Marblehead sweatshirts and such).
Back in the 1960s, some Marblehead fishermen created the “Cheap Bastard’s Yacht Club” as a tongue-in-cheek alternative to the more formal, elite yacht clubs in town. Its origins are rooted in Marblehead’s rich maritime culture, and local fishermen simply wanted a club of their own that didn’t have fees or a dress code – just a casual place where everyone could share their love of the water, and enjoy good company. Today, CBYC remains a beloved piece of local lore, with its playful ethos and spirited charm still on display throughout town.
7. Walk Through Old Burial Hill
This cemetery should look familiar to you if you’re a fan of the movie Hocus Pocus, since a few scenes were filmed here. But even if you’ve never seen the movie, this is a really wonderful stop to make on your trip. You might be wondering why an old cemetery is worth your time, but this one actually provides you with views of Marblehead Harbor from the top of the hill, as well as interesting history.
To find the water views in the cemetery, you’ll want to look for the gazebo, which offers glimpses of the harbor, and the best view of the entire cemetery.
If you’re looking for some notable history, keep an eye out for Wilmot Redd’s memorial stone, which was only recently placed in the cemetery in 1998, but is dedicated to the memory of the only woman from Marblehead who was tried, found guilty, and sadly executed in the Salem Witch Trials. There are also over 600 graves from the Revolutionary War period, many of which still go unmarked.
Psst! Looking for the oldest marked headstone at Old Burial Hill? It belongs to Mary Lattimore, wife of Christopher Lattimore, who passed away on May 8, 1681.
9. Try A Joe Frogger Cookie At The Muffin Shop
For a sweet treat that’s actually pretty hard to find outside of Marblehead, and New England in general, you’ll want to head to The Muffin Shop for a Joe Frogger!
Invented right in Marblehead in the 18th century by Lucretia Thomas Brown, co-owner of Black Joe’s Tavern, these cookies have a molasses base and are similar to Gingerbread cookies. Originally made the size of pancakes, they don’t contain milk or eggs, keeping them fresh for a long time. This made them very popular with sailors and fisherman who spent weeks out at sea and could eat them without worrying that they would spoil.
Lucretia named part of the cookies after her husband Joseph Brown, with whom she owned the tavern. While it’s still unknown, some say the “froggers” part of the cookie name came from the frogs in the nearby Redd’s Pond.
So, what are my thoughts on the Joe Frogger? Honestly, I can never decide. I love gingerbread cookies, but these are less sweet, and just lacking a little … something. However, my husband really likes them for that reason. So, I guess you’ll have to get one to try for yourself 😉
10. Stroll Around Redd’s Pond
Speaking of Redd’s Pond, this is another place in town you’ll want to visit. It’s pretty small, but it’s a lovely little spot that’s especially beautiful in the fall season when all the leaves have changed color.
It also sits adjacent to Old Burial Hill, making it easy to visit both at the same time. Redd’s Pond was named after the same Wilmot Redd, the victim of the Salem Witch Trials I mentioned earlier in the Old Burial Hill section.
11. Grab A Lobster Roll At Little Harbor Lobster Company
The best lobster roll in town is at Little Harbor Lobster Company, and it’s just a short 10-minute stroll from the heart of the historic district. Overlooking the harbor, this little seafood shack serves up not only lobster rolls, but any fresh seafood you could want, as well as organic wines and a great beer selection.
There is no indoor seating, and very limited outdoor seating. Many people take their food to-go and sit in a nearby park to make a picnic of it. But maybe you’ll get lucky and snatch up one of the outdoor benches to enjoy your lobster roll while watching the fishing boats in the harbor.
12. Dine On The Waterfront
If you’re looking for more of restaurant setting while in town, I really love The Landing, which is right on the harbor, and has tables with lovely coastal views.
Serving lunch and dinner, they focus on classic New England fare and seafood (of course!), and while I do slightly prefer the lobster roll from Little Harbor, the one here is also very good.
Inside, you’l also find a bar that serves awesome drinks and cocktails!
Psst! Want to make a reservation at The Landing? Click here!
13. Grab Coffee From Blue Canoe Café
There are a few different places for a coffee or tea around Marblehead, but my favorite is Blue Canoe Café. You’ll find this cute little spot just outside the historic area near Atlantic Ave., and while it’s small, they have a great menu with coffee (featuring the locally-roasted Atomic Coffee out of Peabody), tea & baked goods.
They also have online ordering, if you want to have it ready for you when you get there 😉
Things To Do Near Marblehead, MA
One of the best things about Marblehead is that it makes for an amazing home base for your trip to New England if you’re looking to explore other parts of Massachusetts – especially the North Shore. You can take so many wonderful day trips from Marblehead, including a few places that are very close, and some that are just over an hour. Here are my suggestions on the best things to do nearby.
14. Take A Day Trip To Salem, MA
Probably the most famous place in Massachusetts besides Boston, Salem has a lot of hype, but honestly, it’s deserved. I love both Marblehead and Salem, and Salem is definitely a place to experience at least once in your life (or multiple times if you’re local to New England 😉
Salem is, of course, known at Witch City, and home to the very iconic Salem Witch Trials. However, it’s so much more than witchy things, and has beautiful architecture, the House of the Seven Gables, picturesque streets, great restaurants & cafés, lighthouses, museums, and more.
Salem and Marblehead are neighboring towns, so you’re only about 15 minutes away when in Marblehead.
Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip, and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information and insider tips for your visit.
15. Visit Charming Rockport
Just about 45 minutes from Marblehead, you’ll find the lovely town of Rockport, which is a charming coastal town most known for the most painted building in the U.S. – Motif 1. That’s the simple yet beautiful red fishing shack that sits overlooking the harbor, and has been seen in movies throughout the years like The Proposal and The Love Letter.
Besides Motif 1, the main area to explore in Rockport is Bearskin Neck, which has a scary-sounding name, but is really just the main hub of downtown where you’ll find most of the shops, galleries, and restaurants. It also sits along the harbor, so you’re never far from a water view, and all the independent boutiques offer something different. It’s really such a unique place to experience.
Additionally, you’ll want to grab a lobster roll from Roy Moore, and take a drive over to Halibut Point State Park.
Psst! I have an entire guide on the best things to do in Rockport, MA, if you need more info and tips 😉
16. See Castle Hill At The Crane Estate
One of the more unique places to see along the North Shore is the Crane Estate, which is home to both Castle Hill and Crane Beach. For a day trip, though, you’ll definitely want to make your way over to Castle Hill to enjoy the historic and stunning property – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time in Europe!
Located in Ipswich, which is just under an hour from Marblehead, the estate dates back to 1928, and features sweeping views, rich history, and beautifully preserved grounds. Once the summer home of Chicago industrialist Richard T. Crane Jr., the 59-room mansion sits atop 165 acres of landscaped gardens and rolling hills.
During your visit, the first floor is open, featuring preserved exhibits, and you can also also explore the grand architecture, scenic walking trails, beautiful gardens, and expansive lawn that leads to the ocean. Castle Hill is not only a National Historic Landmark, but it also served as a filming location for the 2019 movie Little Women, in case you thought that maybe it looked familiar 😉
17. Stroll Through Newburyport
Newburyport is another beautiful town along the Massachusetts coast that’s definitely worth your time, and is only about 45 minutes from Marblehead. It’s especially great for shopping and antiquing, as there are so many options for independent and unique boutiques, but it also has a beautiful waterfront park, historic houses, amazing restaurants, options for boat tours (including whale watch tours!), and a lovely state park – Maudslay.
Newburyport is also home to Plum Island, which has a lighthouse, beaches and the incredible Parker River Wildlife Refugee for scenic nature trails over salt marshes.
Psst! I have an entire guide on the best things to do in Newburyport & Plum Island with lots more ideas 😉
Where To Stay In Marblehead
The Harbor Light Inn: My personal favorite place to stay in town. It’s located right inside the historic district, so you can walk almost everywhere, and each room is individually designed with a cozy New England vibe. The best part, though? They have on-site parking, which is a huge bonus, as parking in town is pretty challenging. They also have a pool, and include an elevated continental breakfast with your stay.
→ Click here to check rates & availability at the Harbor Light Inn
Hotel Marblehead: Another great choice when visiting. This hotel is located a bit further from the top sites, but they do offer bikes to use during your stay. They also have on-site parking, a “light bites” breakfast, and a more modern vibe. Fun fact: this hotel was also features as a filming location in the movie Hubie Halloween, which filmed a lot throughout town!
→ Click here to check rates & availability at Hotel Marblehead
Visiting Marblehead, MA: Answering Your Questions
Does Marblehead Have A Beach?
Yes! In fact, it has 6 beaches in total, and they’re some of the best things to see in Marblehead, MA. The most popular beach is Devereux Beach, which is the largest beach in Marblehead and the best for swimming because it’s a longer and sandier stretch of coastline. This beach also has restroom facilities, a picnic area, a restaurant, and a parking lot.
Other Marblehead beaches include Fort Beach and Lovis Cove, Gas House Beach, Grace Oliver Beach, River Head Beach and Stramski Beach. Beaches in Marblehead can be a bit rocky, so it’s a good idea to come prepared with water shoes. Marblehead beaches are not known as being the best for swimming, with Devereux Beach being a wonderful exception.
Best Time To Visit Marblehead
Marblehead is a great destination to visit all year-round, but is most popular in July and August for the summer season, as well as October for fall foliage season (also for its proximity to Salem). While Marblehead is a popular destination, it doesn’t ever really ever feel too crowded, so there shouldn’t be a reason to try and book a trip here for a certain time to avoid crowds. But, if you’re looking to visit during an off-season time, June and November are also lovely times to visit.
During the holiday season, Marblehead also has a Christmas celebration called Christmas Walk, which takes place the first weekend in December. This is also a magical time to visit with all kinds of cheerful activities like Santa’s arrival by boat, a lobster trap Christmas tree to admire by the harbor, and a holiday Shop ‘N Stroll, where local retailers offer longer hours, special sales and refreshments for shoppers.
Does Marblehead Have A Downtown?
Yes, in fact, it has two downtown areas. One is the Historic District downtown along Washington and State Streets, where most of the shops and restaurants in this area are located. The second downtown area is located along Atlantic Avenue, which has a mix of both locally-owned shops and restaurants.
What Is Marblehead, MA Famous For?
Marblehead is famous for once being the fishing capital of Massachusetts, and is also said to have been the birthplace of the American Navy. It’s also famous for being home of St. Michaels, the oldest Episcopal church in New England. Marblehead is also known for having the only skeletal-structured lighthouse still standing in the U.S.
Marblehead was also the main filming location for the movie Hubie Halloween, and is home to a Hocus Pocus filming location, too.
More posts you may enjoy:
- Wonderfully Romantic Getaways From Boston
- My Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor Road Trip Itinerary
- A Guide To Fall In Massachusetts
- Best Stops To Make When Driving From Boston To Portland, Maine
That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Marblehead, MA
Now that you know all the best things to do in Marblehead, MA, hopefully now you see why this town is such a gem in Massachusetts. If you’re looking for a small coastal destination rich in history, packed with character and stunning coastline, this is a town you should absolutely add to your list of must-visit places. Happy planning!
