{"id":54756,"date":"2022-12-03T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-12-03T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/best-things-to-do-in-haverhill-ma\/"},"modified":"2024-03-30T18:57:00","modified_gmt":"2024-03-30T18:57:00","slug":"best-things-to-do-in-haverhill-ma","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/best-things-to-do-in-haverhill-ma\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Best Things to Do in Haverhill, MA"},"content":{"rendered":"

Haverhill, located in Essex County, Massachusetts, is a vibrant city rich with history and plenty of activities for tourists.<\/p>\n

Known as the \u201cQueen Slipper City,\u201d Haverhill had a vast top-notch shoe industry for over a century.<\/p>\n

Haverhill is an excellent location to learn about history or relax and enjoy the scenery.<\/p>\n

Art lovers will enjoy exploring the many art galleries downtown, while nature enthusiasts can spend a day hiking or biking in one of the city\u2019s many parks.<\/p>\n

What are you waiting for?<\/p>\n

Check out these 15 best things to do in Haverhill, Massachusetts.<\/p>\n

Visit the Buttonwoods Museum<\/h2>\n

\"Exterior<\/p>\n

John Phelan<\/a>, CC BY 3.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

Adding a museum or two to your vacation itinerary is an excellent way of getting an educational glimpse into the area\u2019s past.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re ever in Haverhill, this museum should be on your itinerary.<\/p>\n

The Buttonwoods Museum<\/a> got its name from the sycamore trees, also known as buttonwoods, planted on the property in the early 1740s by Hugh Tallent, Haverhill\u2019s first Irish immigrant.<\/p>\n

The museum contains a diverse array of artifacts from Native Americans and an extensive collection of shoes and shoemaking tools on display that represents Haverhill\u2019s former role as a world leader in the shoe industry.<\/p>\n

The Frederick A. Luce Collection is a must-see, especially for its archaeological artifacts.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s even a curated list of things to look out for a while at the museum, such as the Haverhill Deed, Man\u2019s Wedding Shoes, the Red Cape, Worshipping Oak, and the Civil War flag, to name a few!<\/p>\n

Check these recommendations when you visit Buttonwoods Museum in Haverhill.<\/p>\n

Feel Like Royalty at Winnekenni Castle<\/h2>\n

\"Exterior<\/p>\n

Beckwith-Zink (Diane) from Haverhill, MA, USA<\/a>, CC BY 2.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

The Winnekenni Castle<\/a> in Haverhill is a great place with stunning Victorian structures that will make you feel you are a noble from the past.<\/p>\n

Dr. James R. Nichols built this historic landmark out of native stone in 1875 as his summer home, located within the over 200 acres of Winnekenni Park Conservation land.<\/p>\n

Castle visitors pass through a Gothic door that opens into a Grecian drawing room large enough to host the guests of past centuries.<\/p>\n

It has a dining room design with a Pompeian style, and walls finished with black walnut, and Roman-tiled floors for the library, sleeping room, storeroom, kitchen, and laundry area.<\/p>\n

This castle has other stunning features you will see when you tour here.<\/p>\n

You can also hold events on the castle grounds and feel you are hosting a party like an aristocrat.<\/p>\n

Above all, you will have an enjoyable, sophisticated time here at Winnekenni Castle!<\/p>\n

Read Books at Haverhill Public Library<\/h2>\n

The Haverhill Public Library<\/a> is the best place if you are a bookworm.<\/p>\n

In 1873, E.J.M Hale, a wealthy industrialist, reached an agreement with the City of Haverhill to found the Haverhill Public Library.<\/p>\n

The library now has a wide variety of books, magazines, and other materials you can read and borrow.<\/p>\n

You can also scroll through the collections in the library, including the archives, local history, genealogy, and research materials.<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll learn a thing or two by reading books about Haverhill at this library!<\/p>\n

Learn Farming at Tattersall Farm<\/h2>\n

\"Exterior<\/p>\n

John Phelan<\/a>, CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

Come to Tattersall Farm for an educational, fun day out!<\/p>\n

If you have a green thumb and want to learn more about farming, the Tattersall Farm<\/a> is the best place to gain knowledge.<\/p>\n

The Tattersall family owned this rolling, one-fourth-acre Haverhill land for most of the 1900s.<\/p>\n

Several of Tattersall Farm\u2019s plants even date back to the 19th century.<\/p>\n

Haverhill\u2019s Tattersall Farm is a cultural treasure and a great place to learn about farming, beekeeping, and animal care.<\/p>\n

On special days throughout the year, the farm offers visitors exciting activities such as puppet shows, pony rides, or hayrides.<\/p>\n

The farm includes wheat fields, grasslands, and a massive forest with plenty of opportunity for hikers, joggers, and cross-country skiers to explore.<\/p>\n

Nowadays, Tattersall is kept primarily as an example of rural New England life in the past.<\/p>\n

Make Your Way to the Bradford Rail Trail<\/h2>\n

\"Marker<\/p>\n

Se\u00f1orBrett<\/a>, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

The Bradford Rail Trail<\/a> is one of the best places to walk in Haverhill.<\/p>\n

This trail is a half-mile path between the Basiliere and Comeau Bridges by the Merrimack River.<\/p>\n

It has opened for public use since 2008.<\/p>\n

This trail was constructed exclusively for pedestrians, bicyclists, joggers, and many more through city efforts and support from the Friends of the Bradford Rail Trail organization.<\/p>\n

Several exciting features to look out for as you explore the trail.<\/p>\n

One includes the \u201cWildlife in the Merrimack River Watershed,\u201d a painting on the exquisitely designed building and signages rich with history and educational value.<\/p>\n

New sculptures have been installed on the trail, thanks to the city government and volunteer groups.<\/p>\n

These sculptures helped inspire the art walks that everyone can enjoy.<\/p>\n

Enjoy your time walking here on Bradford Rail Trail!<\/p>\n

Step Back in Time at Rocks Village Historic District<\/h2>\n

\"An<\/p>\n

John Phelan<\/a>, CC BY 3.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

The old buildings in the Rocks Village Historic District<\/a> will take you back in time, letting you experience the village\u2019s history first-hand.<\/p>\n

The Rocks Village neighborhood was established in the 1640s.<\/p>\n

Over time, it became a thriving fishing community that exported pickled herring to Europe.<\/p>\n

By 1790, the village already had a shipyard and distillery.<\/p>\n

The village has almost 300 years of history and has retained many prominent old buildings, including those on historic Colby\u2019s Lane, East Main Street, River Road, and Wharf Lane.<\/p>\n

Travel back in time and explore the Rocks Village Historic District when you visit Haverhill.<\/p>\n

Channel Your Artistic Side at Shoe Town Art Center<\/h2>\n

If you are fond of arts and crafts, the Shoe Town Art Center is a place for you.<\/p>\n

Since 2010, the Shoe Town Art Center<\/a> has been passionate about helping people pursue their love of art and creativity.<\/p>\n

The art center boasts a highly talented faculty, exceptional staff, and motivated students, creating an environment ideal for creativity to thrive.<\/p>\n

They have personalized learning methods that cater to the individual needs of each student so they can reach their full creative potential.<\/p>\n

You will love crafting your artwork, whether ceramics, pottery, painting, sculpting, drawing, art games, and many more.<\/p>\n

The Shoe Town Art Center is always putting on new displays of local talent.<\/p>\n

Stop by and be amazed, then maybe find inspiration for your art.<\/p>\n

Learn about the Evolution of Printing at the Museum of Printing<\/h2>\n

\"An<\/p>\n

Printhusiast<\/a>, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

Do you want to know the history of print?<\/p>\n

The Museum of Printing<\/a> is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history and technology behind printing and typesetting.<\/p>\n

The museum was designed to showcase the artistry and craftsmanship in this field, making it a truly unique attraction.<\/p>\n

This includes everything from multiple exhibits and collections to old machines used for each process.<\/p>\n

\"Linotype<\/p>\n

Printhusiast<\/a>, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

You will witness how printing methods improved and changed over time in the exhibits that show the evolutions of printing.<\/p>\n

The museum also has an onsite library with books and documents about printing that you can read during your visit.<\/p>\n

Learn about the evolution of the printed materials you read and hold at the Museum of Printing.<\/p>\n

\"Gutenberg<\/p>\n

Printhusiast<\/a>, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

Explore Historic New England<\/h2>\n

Discover the items, pictures, and records that depict life in New England for over four centuries at Historic New England<\/a> in Haverhill.<\/p>\n

Historic New England has amassed over 123,000 items and 1.5 million archives in their collections.<\/p>\n

The items explain how people in New England have lived since the 17th century.<\/p>\n

You will be amazed by the wide range of collections inside the building.<\/p>\n

They also have collections of photographs and documents about Haverhill, too!<\/p>\n

Enjoy these collections as you visit Historic New England.<\/p>\n

Learn about John Greenleaf Whittier at Whittier Birthplace<\/h2>\n

\"Exterior<\/p>\n

Midnightdreary<\/a>, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

To know more about John Greenleaf Whittier, try visiting the Whittier Birthplace.<\/a><\/p>\n

Whittier Birthplace is the historic farmhouse where the poet John Greenleaf Whittier, a Quaker poet and abolitionist, was born in 1807.<\/p>\n

He also created the Republican Party.<\/p>\n

Visitors can glimpse where Whittier grew up and learn about his early life.<\/p>\n

\"History<\/p>\n

Midnightdreary<\/a>, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

The museum also has a collection of Whittier\u2019s writings, including some of his famous poems.<\/p>\n

Most of the poet\u2019s works are in the Whittier Birthplace, attracting many people.<\/p>\n

The farmhouse is now a museum open to the public for tours.<\/p>\n

Explore Riverside Park<\/h2>\n

Riverside Park<\/a>, located on a curve in the Merrimack river, offers stunning views of the wooded southern bank.<\/p>\n

The outdoor recreation activities at this park are endless. <\/p>\n

You can play on its baseball fields, tennis, and basketball courts, as well as a playground for your kids.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for a peaceful escape, take a walk on the park trail.<\/p>\n

Otherwise, spend quality time with your family with a picnic in the fields.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s also a dog park so you can bond with your beloved dogs.<\/p>\n

Take your time and visit the beautiful Riverside Park.<\/p>\n

Go Hiking at Lake Kenoza<\/h2>\n

\"Lush<\/p>\n

Marie Christiane \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Haverhill also has the best hiking trails.<\/p>\n

Lake Kenoza<\/a> is the perfect destination for a hike while enjoying stunning views of the lake and its natural surroundings.<\/p>\n

This 6.4-km loop trail near Haverhill is excellent for beginners and only takes an hour and 24 minutes to finish.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

Marie Christiane \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

You might also want to try cross-country skiing and horseback riding, open all year round in this beautiful area.<\/p>\n

Have fun while hiking at Lake Kenoza!<\/p>\n

Taste Fine Wine at Willow Spring Vineyard<\/h2>\n

Tasting wines in Willow Spring Vineyard<\/a> is a memorable experience.<\/p>\n

Willow Spring Vineyard is a family-owned and operated vineyard and winery located in Haverhill.<\/p>\n

It currently offers a variety of red and white wines from French hybrid grapes.<\/p>\n

Each wine gives an exquisite taste of locally grown grapes used to produce these wines.<\/p>\n

The vineyard is open for tastings and tours seven days a week, where you can explore the stunning grounds and learn about the process of winemaking.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re feeling peckish, take advantage of the vineyard\u2019s picnic area!<\/p>\n

Stop by the Willow Spring Vineyard and taste their fantastic wines.<\/p>\n

Admire the Beauty of Duston-Dustin Garrison House<\/h2>\n

\"Exterior<\/p>\n

Magicpiano<\/a>, CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

If old structures pique your interest, the Duston-Dustin Garrison House<\/a> is a place to go.<\/p>\n

The brick-and-mortar structure was built in 1697 as a garrison.<\/p>\n

This particular garrison was manned by local militia and is recognized as an example of early First-Period American architecture.<\/p>\n

It was one of six garrisons in Haverhill, but it was the only one constructed using locally sourced bricks.<\/p>\n

Every detail of the garrison will amaze you, mainly how the skilled brickmaker and mason Thomas Duston meticulously built the structure. <\/p>\n

The garrison is an excellent example of the top-notch craftsmanship by Duston and other local carpenters in Haverhill back in the day.<\/p>\n

Standing strong for over 320 years, the Duston-Dustin Garrison House is worth a visit.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t forget to take plenty of pictures!<\/p>\n

Get Busy at Downtown Haverhill<\/h2>\n

\"View<\/p>\n

Ryan Garrett \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Downtown Haverhill<\/a> is the city\u2019s historic center and home to various shops, restaurants, and businesses.<\/p>\n

The buildings in Haverhill are structured in a style that is both unique and inviting, perfect for exploring the downtown area.<\/p>\n

The streets are lined with trees, and there are plenty of public spaces for you to enjoy downtown.<\/p>\n

You will have a chance to find souvenirs for your loved ones in the shops in this area.<\/p>\n

Or you can take your family to the different restaurants that serve sumptuous dishes.<\/p>\n

This lively street in Downtown Haverhill will excite you, pushing you to look at every nook and cranny.<\/p>\n

Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n

Haverhill is a historic city with a wealth of culture.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking to explore the great outdoors or sample some delicious wine, there\u2019s plenty to do here.<\/p>\n

Try the best things to do in Haverhill, Massachusetts, and you will enjoy a fun vacation you will never forget.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Haverhill, located in Essex County, Massachusetts, is a vibrant city rich with history and plenty of activities for tourists. Known as the \u201cQueen Slipper City,\u201d Haverhill had a vast top-notch shoe industry for over a century. Haverhill is an excellent location to learn about history or relax and enjoy the scenery. Art lovers will enjoy […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":54772,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[1368,1305,1312,1369,1193,2359,1200,1199,45],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54756"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=54756"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54756\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":54771,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54756\/revisions\/54771"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/54772"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=54756"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=54756"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=54756"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}