Things to Do and Places to Visit in North Andover, Massachusetts
Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens
Wander through 91 acres of formal gardens, woodlands, and meadows on the estate of diplomat John Gardner Coolidge. Guided tours and self-guided trails reveal horticultural displays and Colonial Revival architecture.
Phone: 978-689-9105
Harold Parker State Forest
Explore over 3,300 acres of pine forests, 11 ponds, and 35 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and horseback riding. Campgrounds and swimming spots like Berry Pond make it a year-round outdoor playground.
Phone: 978-686-3391
Smolak Farms
Pick-your-own strawberries, apples, and pumpkins in season, then sample cider doughnuts and homemade pies at the farm stand. Family hayrides and a charming barnyard petting area complete the agritourism experience.
Phone: 978-688-7373
Weir Hill Reservation
Climb the rocky outcrops for panoramic views of Lake Cochichewick, then follow shaded woodland trails through oak forests. The shore offers tranquil picnic spots and paddling launch points.
Phone: N/A
Ward Reservation
Roam over 700 acres of rolling hills and 40 miles of trails, including ridgeline paths with sweeping views of the Merrimack Valley. Bird-watching and wildflower meadows draw nature lovers year-round.
Phone: N/A
Parson Barnard House
Tour one of New England’s best-preserved 1715 First-Period homes, with original timber framing, wide plank floors, and a late 18th-century carriage house. Seasonal guided tours delve into colonial life.
Phone: 978-685-7311
North Andover Historical Society Museum
Step back into local history with exhibits on colonial life, textile mills, and civic heritage. Genealogy resources and rotating special exhibits bring the past to life.
Phone: 978-685-7311
Osgood Street Reservoir Park
Enjoy shaded picnic spots along the shoreline of this 160-acre reservoir. Walking paths circle the water, offering fitness loops and fishing access for bass and pickerel.
Phone: N/A
Rogers Street Boat Launch
Launch kayaks and canoes into the Merrimack River from a gentle gravel ramp. Paddlers can explore peaceful upstream waterways and spot river otters at dawn.
Phone: N/A
North Andover Farmers Market
Browse fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local growers and artisans every Saturday drive-in season. Live music and cooking demos make it a community gathering.
Phone: N/A
Joseph N. Hermann Youth Center
Drop in for drop-in sports like street hockey and basketball, or join special leagues and clinics. The renovated sport court hosts summer fun programs for kids of all ages.
Phone: 978-682-9000
Brooks School Ice Arena
Glide on freshly resurfaced ice during public skate sessions, or watch high school hockey games. Skate rentals and warming rooms make it ideal for families and hockey fans.
Phone: 978-688-2000
Matchplay Golf & Sports Lounge
Work on your swing in climate-controlled hitting bays, then relax in the lounge with craft beers and pub fare. Simulator golf and virtual sports games guarantee year-round fun.
Phone: 978-688-5688
North Andover Country Club
Tee off on a rolling 18-hole course framed by pine forests and wetlands. The club offers dining, lessons, and tournaments for players of all skill levels.
Phone: 978-687-0342
North Andover Public Library
Relax with a book in the sunlit reading room, explore genealogy archives, or catch an author talk. Children’s story hours and maker workshops make it a cultural hub.
Phone: 978-688-9536
Shawsheen Village Historic District
Stroll tree-lined streets of the early 20th-century mill village, with well-preserved worker cottages, schools, and a central park. Informational plaques recount industrial heritage.
Phone: N/A
North Andover Town Common & Historic District
Gather under stately maples on the triangular Town Green framed by Victorian churches and antique lampposts. Seasonal events include concerts, markets, and memorial ceremonies.
Phone: N/A
Summer Sunday Concert Series on the Common
Bring a blanket and enjoy free outdoor concerts by local bands every Sunday evening in July and August. Food trucks and family-friendly atmosphere make it a summer highlight.
Phone: N/A
Summer Children’s Shows on the Common
Family fun on Wednesday mornings with magic, puppetry, and storytelling performances perfect for preschoolers and grade-school kids. Bring a snack and watch the show!
Phone: N/A
Fall Fest on the Common
Celebrate autumn with pumpkin carving, hayrides, live folk music, and craft vendors in October. Family activities and seasonal treats make it a festive community gathering.
Phone: N/A
Independence Day Parade & Country Fair
Join the spirited Fourth of July parade down Main Street, then head to the Country Fair on the Common for rides, games, and local food vendors.
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Holiday Tree Lighting
Kick off the festive season with caroling, hot cocoa, and the annual flip of the switch on the Town Common’s majestic fir tree. Santa’s arrival delights all ages.
Phone: N/A
Holiday Craft Fair
Discover handmade gifts, wreaths, and seasonal décor at this December fair. Live demonstrations and local artisans make it the perfect spot for unique holiday shopping.
Phone: N/A
Ravenwood Haunted Farm
Scream your way through haunted hayrides, corn mazes, and spooky barns each October night. Actors and special effects guarantee a hair-raising autumn adventure.
Phone: 978-807-7190
Clown Town Haunted Attraction
Dare to wander this clown-filled haunted maze featuring live performers and immersive sets. Seasonal scares make it a must-visit for thrill seekers.
Phone: 978-497-3992
Stevens Pond Park
Stroll or jog the loop around this scenic pond, watch frogs and turtles bask on logs, or cast a line for bass fishing from the accessible boardwalk.
Phone: N/A
North Andover Family YMCA
Swim laps in the indoor pool, join fitness classes, or register kids for summer camp. Community events and charity swims round out this full-service wellness center.
Phone: 978-687-1991
Marble Ridge Winery
Sample estate-grown rosés and dry whites in a rustic tasting room overlooking vineyard rows. Live music and charcuterie boards make for a leisurely afternoon.
Phone: 978-807-7170
North Andover Dog Park
Let your pup run leash-free in this fenced area with agility equipment and shaded seating for owners. Waste stations and water fountains keep things tidy.
Phone: N/A
Public Tennis & Basketball Courts at Stevens Pond Park
Challenge friends to a game on well-maintained courts by the pond. Evening lights and bench seating make this popular with families and pickup leagues.
Phone: N/A
Pickleball Courts at the Youth Center
Try America’s fastest-growing sport on newly striped courts behind the Youth Center. Free pick-up games and beginner clinics run most afternoons.
Phone: 978-682-9000
Maple Sugar Festival at Stevens-Coolidge House
Celebrate early spring with sap-tapping demos, pancake breakfasts, and syrup-making workshops in the historic garden setting.
Phone: 978-689-9105
Garden Workshops at Stevens-Coolidge
Learn pruning, propagation, and design tips in hands-on sessions led by master gardeners. Seasonal classes cover everything from bulb-planting to perennial care.
Phone: 978-689-9105
Farm Stand & U-Pick at Smolak Farms
Stop by the farm stand for honey, pies, and fresh eggs, or pick your own berries and apples in season. Live music Saturdays add local flavor.
Phone: 978-688-7373
Barnyard Play Area at Smolak Farms
Kids can feed goats, meet bunnies, and explore a mini corn maze while parents relax with cider and snacks in the shaded picnic grove.
Phone: 978-688-7373
Historic Tours at Parson Barnard House
Join costumed docents for in-depth tours of the 1715 home and carriage house, with period furnishings and tales of early colonial life.
Phone: 978-685-7311
Horseback Riding on Bridle Trails at Harold Parker
Saddle up and explore designated equestrian paths winding through pine-needle forest and around quiet ponds. Stables nearby offer guided trail rides.
Phone: N/A
Shawsheen River Canoe & Kayak Tours
Paddle the gentle Shawsheen River on guided tours that highlight local wildlife and mill-town history. Sunset and full-moon floats add a magical touch.
Phone: 978-682-9000
North Andover Heritage Trail Self-Guided Tour
Download maps to explore 15 historic sites—from 18th-century churches to millworker homes—on an easy walking loop through town center.
Phone: N/A
Yoga in the Gardens at Stevens-Coolidge
Flow through morning yoga sessions on the garden lawn, surrounded by blooming flowers and gentle breezes. All levels welcome in this tranquil setting.
Phone: 978-689-9105
FAQs
What is North Andover known for?
Historic homes, scenic lakes, local farms, and preserved conservation land make North Andover a classic New England destination.
Can you swim in Lake Cochichewick?
No, swimming is not allowed due to its role as a public water supply. But it’s still beautiful to walk or hike nearby.
What are the best things to do with kids in North Andover?
Smolak Farms, Town Common events, and Stevens-Coolidge Gardens are popular kid-friendly spots.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and fall are ideal, especially for garden blooms or autumn foliage. Fall events like apple picking are extremely popular.
Visit North Andover Today!
From relaxing parks to historic tours and fun for all ages, North Andover, Massachusetts is a wonderful day trip or weekend retreat. Be sure to support local businesses, restaurants, and service providers while you explore.
