Merrimack

What Will You Find in the Greater Merrimack Valley?

Close to Boston, the cities and towns of the Greater Merrimack Valley are full of historic places. They are a treasure trove for history buffs, readers and researchers, and even fans of old time dining.

By StoryStudio on March 20, 2023 11:19 AM

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Concord and Lexington are where the “Shot Heard Round the World” that launched the American Revolution was fired. Nearly 250 years later, the many statues, parks, and expert tour guides here explain what happened and why it matters to this day. Don’t miss visiting Concord’s Minute Man Historical Park and Lexington’s Battle Green area. Visit Walden Pond in Concord, made famous in Henry David Thoreau. Not far away is the preserved home of Louisa May Alcott, author of Little Women, and the Ralph Waldo Emerson House, home to the early American philosopher and essayist. The graves of Thoreau, Emerson and Nathanial Hawthorne are among many famous early Americans at rest in Concord’s Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. Concord’s Visitor Center provides different walking tours with knowledgeable guides, great scenery, and interesting stops. The popular Emerson-Thoreau Amble travels the same trails as those iconic Americans all the way to famous Walden Pond. Other tours include Little Women, Women of Concord, Family and Children, African-American History and Indigenous Peoples.

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Lincoln, which lies between Lexington and Concord, was also the site of Revolutionary War battles, and is home to what was dubbed Battle Road. Here, Paul Revere was arrested by the British on his historic ride to Concord. If you’re an architecture appreciator, you’ll enjoy Lincoln’s Gropius House. Walter Gropius founded the German design school known as the Bauhaus, and was one of the 20th century’s most influential architects. Built in 1938, Gropius House combines traditional elements with innovative materials. It’s a National Historic Landmark waiting to be explored. Visit the city of Lowell to learn more about Beat Generation author, Jack Kerouac. His birthplace is near downtown. While here, stroll through the city’s National Historical Park, birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution and tour Boott Cotton Mills. Take in the monuments at the Lowell Cemetery, open since 1840, or stop by the New England Quilt Museum. Fans of historic railroads will love the Bedford Depot. The original 1874 depot and 1877 freight house are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can also visit the Budd Rail Diesel Car, a restored passenger train that ran under its own self-propelled power, without a locomotive at its front.

Photo credit: Isabel Pett

Photo Credit: North of Boston CVB

Concord The Colonial Inn Some say is haunted, dates back to 1716. Two restaurants here, Liberty and Merchants Row, serve fine and local fare in traditional New England dining settings. Club Car Café Located in the historic West Concord Train Station. All will delight in watching the model train that rolls by the perimeter of the dining room. Lexington Town Meeting Bistro Set in the historic Inn at Hastings Park boutique luxury hotel, offing traditional bistro flair focused on New England flavors. Lowell Cobblestones A landmark dining destination known for its excellent dining, local craft beer selections, Sunday brunch and hospitality, all within an impressive architectural setting. Four Sisters Owl Diner This classic Worcester lunch car features old time diner counter seats and a great selection of New England comfort food. Worthen House Café Established in 1898, the Café retains its original architecture. A favorite bar of Edgar Allen Poe. Warm atmosphere hosting live events.

The Valley may be best known for its many historical sites, but there is much more to see. Visit dozens of galleries, studios, and museums. Western Ave. Studios & Lofts Historic mills in Lowell, remnants of America’s Industrial evolution, are where you’ll now find the largest artist community in the US. Artists practice their craft, exhibit them, and offer classes and workshops. Brush Art Gallery & Studios Located in the Lowell National Historic Park. The artists-in-residence here offer museum quality exhibitions and educational programs. deCordova Sculpture Park & Museum The largest museum of its kind in New England has a mission is to inspire, educate and delight, with contemporary art, including large outdoor sculptures and museum exhibitions. Located in Lincoln. Chelmsford Center for the Arts These Artists-in-Residence Studios, along with arts organizations are found in the Town Hall, a beautiful Italianate Revival building listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The Whistler Museum of Art Set in Lowell, this historic home is the birthplace of American artist, James McNeill Whistler. It is known internationally for its distinguished collection of 19th and early 20th century New England representational art.

Photo credit: Tess McColgan

Photo credit: Matthew Sheehan

Gloucester is home to 7 Seas Whale Watch and Cape Ann Whale Watch, which offer sightseeing trips with whale sightings truly unique to the area. Gaze upon humpbacks, minke, right whales and many more forms of marine life (like the white sided dolphin featured here, captured aboard by photographer Matthew Sheehan)! Opening day for 7 Seas Whale Watch is April 15, and Cape Ann Whale Watch kicks off their season April 22, which is also Earth Day. What better way to celebrate than surrounded by sea, sky and the great mammals of the ocean? Don’t miss these majestic creatures this spring ― a season when whales are active and easy to find off of Gloucester’s shores.

April Whale Watching

Photo credit: Matthew Sheehan

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