Planning a North Shore, Kid-Friendly Staycation

Essex River Cruises and Charters

The North Shore is a fine destination for a kid-friendly staycation. If you’re looking for a place to take it easy with the whole family, then come by and enjoy the beautiful views and great eats that await you.

Essex River Cruises & Charters

Take the whole family on a relaxing adventure with Essex River Cruises & Charters. This local tour takes reserved groups up and down the Essex river while a knowledgeable guide narrates the rich history of the area. Adults and kids alike will love the amazing views and incredible stories. Tourists who take the cruise praise the breathtaking scenery where one can catch sight of shore birds like a heron, ibis, or egret. If you come at the right time of year, you may even spy some birds’ nests!

Also, if you go during high tide, you can get closer to other islands and interesting landmarks.

Crane Wildlife Refuge

This wildlife refuge, located on Crane Estate, is a popular destination for both tourists and locals in the summer. The Crane Wildlife Refuge is located on Choate Island, which can only be reached by private boat, kayak, or guided tours. When you arrive, you’ll find 135 acres of natural beauty and nearly untouched habitats for local flora and fauna.

This beautiful refuge is a feast for the eyes and will delight visitors of all ages. The grasslands on Choate Island are a particularly valuable habitat for Savannah sparrows and bobolinks, while the refuge’s dark spruce forest is graced with birds like sharp-shinned hawks and golden crown kinglets.

Essex Shipbuilding Museum

If you love maritime history, then you need to take the family to the Essex Shipbuilding Museum. Here you can experience a tour with a guide who knows many interesting facts about Essex’s historical shipyard. The collection of historical exhibits, photographs, documents, and shipbuilding tools is one of the most comprehensive in the area.

Cogswell’s Grant

This is a great destination for anyone who admires American folk art. Cogswell’s Grant doubles as a working farm and house museum that contains countless pieces of folk art that were left behind from its previous owner, Nina Little. The whole house merits a tour for its beautifully preserved antique furniture and art collections that will leave a powerful impression on its visitors both young and old.

Authentic New England Seafood

Your staycation in Essex isn’t complete without indulging in some local delicacies. In other parts of the country, you may get New England seafood shipped to you, but nothing can compete with the taste of fresh and local seafood.

Don’t know where to start? Try Woodman’s of Essex, the inventors of the New England fried clam. This is an excellent family-friendly restaurant that’s sure to satisfy your fresh seafood cravings.