Ipswich (Massachusetts)

Historical estate and nature preserve. The Italian and Rose gardens are showstoppers any time of year. Over 5 mi of hiking trails wind along sun-dappled lawns scattered with statues, fountains, and curated plantings. Tours of the Great House and gardens are available. Picnicking available along the properties ocean shore, a social media must. The gift shop has some great on-site only memorabilia. Constant events during the warmer months. Set location of many Hollywood films. Advance passes strongly recommended. No beach access from Castle Hill.

Historic houses and more.

Working farm offering pick-your-own seasonal fruits and vegetables. All the fall favorites including apple cider doughnuts, farm animals, and wine tastings.

See wolves and learn about them in an hour-long presentation.

Almost a thousand acres of rolling, verdant fields; Appleton Farms has been in constant agrarian use since 1638. Farm stand on site. A variety of walking loops take most visitors about 2-3 hours to complete. Many historical buildings dot the property and tours are available. Owned and operated by the Trustees.

A 1200-acre reservation of beachfront, dunes and maritime forests with 5.5 miles of raised boardwalk trails. Crane Beach's annual sand sculpture competition Sandblast! is held every August. In-season: lifeguards and rangers, bike rack, bathhouses with toilets and changing area, outside showers, Store (refreshments and merchandise), picnic tables, drinking water fountains, transportation for mobility-impaired and challenged visitors. Off-season: portable toilets.

Feel the Atlantic wind in your hair throughout these 77 sandy acres at the southern tip of Plum Island. Excellent ocean swimming. Stay away from any fenced off areas, this is an important nesting area for the rare piping plover. Get here early, only 15 parking spots available. Restrooms in season, and some beach wheelchair access.

3,000 acres of parkland offering hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing on 40 miles of trails. Additionally, Hood Pond offers excellent fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. Two small parking lots along the southern park border on Ipswich Road. A third lot is in the north on Linebrook Road. The Bay Circuit Trail.