Many Bostonians have visited the North Shore and been charmed by the area’s quaint, coastal towns; however, you may have overlooked the appeal of one seaside village. Essex tends to be eclipsed by the neighboring towns of Ipswich and Gloucester. Although Essex only had a population of 3,504 in 2010, this North Shore gem has far more to offer than you might expect given its size.
Thanks to Essex Bay, the town has water views galore, yet it remains sheltered from the open ocean.
Google Maps
For a long time, Essex was part of Ipswich.
Flickr/Tim Bouwer However, the town developed its own identity, separating from Ipswich in 1819. Today it’s known for charming antique shops, outstanding seafood restaurants, and natural beauty.
Essex bills itself as America’s Antiques Capital and, given that the town boasts 25 antiques stores in the space of a mile, it certainly seems like a strong contender for the title.
Facebook/ Main Street Antiques
Wander along Main Street, pausing to browse through Howard’s Flying Dragon Antiques or the White Elephant Shop for one-of-a-kind treasures – yes, that is a suit of armor!
Facebook/White Elephant Shop Hobbyists and serious collectors alike will love the selection of stores.
When you’ve finished shopping, take a walk back in time at Cogswell’s Grant. This petite museum is devoted to folk art; it’s a laid back way to appreciate the past.
Tripadvisor/Eagle68 You’ll find it at 60 Spring Street in Essex.
When hunger strikes, you’re spoiled for choice in Essex. The Boat House Grille offers a raw bar, a wide range of baked, broiled, or fried seafood, along with soups and salads. Expect a menu filled with traditional favorites and also more experimental dishes.
Facebook/Boat House Grille Essex The Boat House Grille is located at 234 John Wise Avenue.
If you haven’t heard of Woodman’s of Essex, you’re probably a newcomer to the Boston area because this restaurant is renowned for its clams!
Facebook/Woodman’s of Essex
This is said to be where the fried clam was invented in 1916 and, over a century later, this is still a dish you shouldn’t miss.
Flickr/David
Essex’s most alluring feature is its beautiful and varied landscapes. The Essex River is an outdoor playground - stroll beside it or venture out in a kayak or on a paddleboard.
Tripadvisor/PBD22
During the summer, Essex River Cruises and Charters offers sightseeing trips along the river – it’s an easy way to appreciate the salt marshes and to see the area’s wildlife up close.
Tripadvisor/management
One of the most overlooked spots in Essex is the Stavros Reservation, where you’ll find short trails along with wooded and pastoral terrain.
Tripadvisor/Jake_MA_11
It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve visited Essex, this view never gets old!
Tripadvisor/PBD22
Have you visited Essex yet? If so, where’s your favorite spot in town? Let us know in the comments below!
Google Maps
Flickr/Tim Bouwer
However, the town developed its own identity, separating from Ipswich in 1819. Today it’s known for charming antique shops, outstanding seafood restaurants, and natural beauty.
Facebook/ Main Street Antiques
Facebook/White Elephant Shop
Hobbyists and serious collectors alike will love the selection of stores.
Tripadvisor/Eagle68
You’ll find it at 60 Spring Street in Essex.
Facebook/Boat House Grille Essex
The Boat House Grille is located at 234 John Wise Avenue.
Facebook/Woodman’s of Essex
Flickr/David
Tripadvisor/PBD22
Tripadvisor/management
Tripadvisor/Jake_MA_11
You may also like our past article: 9 Slow-Paced Small Towns Near Boston Where Life Is Still Simple.
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