There’s nothing quite like the New England coastline. During my time in Boston to see my friend Olivia, we ventured on a day trip to explore Massachusetts’ North Shore.
This day was my favorite part of the entire visit. Here’s what we did.
Russell Orchards in Melrose
We made a spontaneous stop at Russell Orchards on our way to the coast. The farm store is housed inside a barn from the 1800s and includes a full bakery, wine shop and souvenirs. It would be the perfect destination for fall in New England.
Crane Estate on Castle Hill in Ipswich
The Crane Estate was my favorite part of my trip to Boston. The Crane Estate was purchased by Chicago industrialist Richard T. Crane, Jr. in 1910, and the 59-room Castle Hill mansion was finished in 1928. It’s now a National Historic Landmark. The Italian gardens were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who worked on the landscaping design at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, N.C. Between the mansion, gardens and seaside views, the Crane Estate is easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited.
Lunch by the Water at J.T. Farnham’s in Essex
We couldn’t visit the North Shore without getting fresh seafood. We stopped at J.T. Farnham’s for lunch and sat by the water.
Sightseeing and shopping in Marblehead
Marblehead is what I envision when I think of the picturesque North Shore – a lighthouse, large rocks and boats everywhere. We shopped the small town (F.L. Woods Nautical Merchants was my favorite store) before heading to take in the sights at Fort Sewall.
Looking for more? Check out my two day to Boston, Mass.
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