If you’re craving a scenic road trip to complete at your own leisure, the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway offers a beautiful excursion through the Massachusetts coastline. The direct 90-mile trip paves a continuous route from Lynn to Salisbury, passing through 14 unique towns.
It’s especially gorgeous in summer, but also a great trip to take in the fall if you love the merging of the seasons. On land you’ll witness turning leaves, and on the other side, you’ll witness glimmering shorelines! It’s one of New England’s most coveted scenic routes. The 90-mile route travels Route 1A/127 all the way along.
If driven continuously, the route is about a 2-hour drive. You’ll pass through 14 Massachusetts towns in total:
- Beverly
- Essex
- Gloucester
- Ipswich
- Lynn
- Manchester-By-The-Sea
- Marblehead
- Newbury
- Newburyport
- Rockport
- Rowley
- Salem
- Salisbury
- Swampscott
Each town offers something different to explore. Check out Salisbury Beach and the popular boardwalk or visit Salem during spooky season. In Rowley, visit America’s oldest stone arch bridge and check out Rockport, Gloucester, and Manchester for fantastic beaches!
If you’re looking to break up the trip, stay at the marvelous Garrison Inn in Newburyport and take a trip out to Plum Island for waterfront dining and pristine beaches. The hotel’s Ladyfinger Lounge is lovely for afternoon tea! Pinkies up!
For more information and things to do on the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway, explore this free guide! It’s easily accessible by car-especially if coming from Boston!