Essex National Heritage Area

Great Misery Island Birding and Nature Tour with Chris Leahy
2026-09-18 08:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Misery Island, Salem, MA, 01944, United States
Join naturalist Chris Leahy for an in-depth exploration of the nature and birds of Great Misery Island.

Explore the birds and environments of Great Misery Island.
With 83 acres of varied habitats, Great Misery Island – now protected by The Trustees – offers a fascinating mix of natural and human history. On this 3.5-hour trip (including 30-minute boat ride each way), you will explore these varied elements with naturalist and Cape Ann resident, Chris Leahy. Of special interest will be the commencement of fall bird migration. We will spend the morning walking slowly on well-maintained trails, some of which go uphill, but not very steeply. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen and insect/tick repellant are recommended.
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets:

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

Shipwrecks of Salem Sound with Captain Ray Bates Jr.
2026-08-14 13:00 - 14:30, 2026-07-17 13:00 - 14:30 | 10 Blaney Street, 10 Blaney Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Come aboard Naumkeag with lifelong historian, author, and local diver, Captain Ray Bates, Jr., for a harbor tour to visit the sites and hear the stories of the many shipwrecks of Salem Sound. Captain Bates has been exploring shipwrecks since 1969 and has written several books on the maritime disasters that have occurred along Boston’s North Shore and Cape Ann. Essex Heritage is thrilled to partner with Ray, as he leads a tour sharing and locating the shipwrecks along the coast of Salem, Beverly and Marblehead, allowing passengers to truly “dig into the past and unearth long-lost stories for themselves.”
All passengers will receive a signed copy of Ray’s book, Shipwrecks North of Boston: Volume 1 , Salem Bay.
Ray Bates will have both volumes of his book and prints of his shipwreck map for sale following the tour.
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets:

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

Misery Island Mushroom Walk
2026-07-17 16:30 - 18:30 | Misery Island, Salem, MA, 01944, United States
Join mycologist Jana Harris from Essex Forays for a guided mushroom walk at Great Misery Island.

For all those interested in discovering fungi growing on the Misery Island of the coast of Beverly/Salem. This unique island environment hosts conifer and hardwood trees that provide background to growing fungi. Fungi don’t stop there. Animals nesting and living on this island contribute significantly to the growth of fungi and lichens on the island’s stone ruins. Join us on an exploratory walk around the island with Jana Harris of Essex Forays, certified in Wild Mushroom Food Safety and a member of Boston Mycological Club. Jana will ID mushrooms as we go and learn about edible and non-edible species. The trip will last about 2.5 hours and will give participants a chance to look closely at mushroom species that thrive in this secluded environment. Depending on weather, there will be different types of mushrooms to explore.
Please wear sturdy shoes, long pants, garden gloves, bring a water bottle, tick and bug repellent, ID field guide and a basket (optional). Please be aware that there is a lot of poison ivy off the trails on the island, so gloves and long pants are highly suggested.

Treasure Islands of Salem Sound with Chris Leahy
2026-07-10 10:00 - 12:00 | 10 Blaney Street, 10 Blaney Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join local naturalist and birding expert, Chris Leahy, on his special birding-focused harbor tour which – will delight nature lovers.

Naturalist Chris Leahy will be leading this nautical exploration of the marine habits of Salem Sound and help you identify all the birds you’ll see along the way. Come enjoy the sights and sounds of Salem Harbor and learn more about the amazing array of bird species who call the north shore home during the summer months.
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets:

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

Wild Edibles at Bakers Island with Russ Cohen
2026-06-26 10:00 - 14:00 | Bakers Island Light Station, Bakers Island, Salem, MA, 01944, United States
Join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion at Bakers Island Light.

Explore Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light Station
Come join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast, Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion out to Bakers Island Light Station, a historic property owned by Essex Heritage.
This 4-hour special trip includes the boat ride aboard Naumkeag and a walking tour of the property with expert Russ Cohen pointing out special species along the trails including the kind you can snack on! Before departing for the main land, enjoy sumac-ade (a natural alternative to Kool-Aid) and a wild goodie or two made by Russ Cohen himself! The wild edibles tour includes over 3 dozen species of edible wild plants that have existed on the island for some time. Also expect to encounter at least six of the additional native wild edible species that were planted last summer.
Please Note:

The lighthouse cannot be climbed at this time.
The rest of the island aside from the 10 acre Light Station is privately owned and all visitors must stay within the 10 acre boundaries.
Guests will not be permitted to visit the Assistant Keeper’s House; that is only accessible to Essex Heritage Members who have booked an overnight stay.
Please read through all the FAQ’s and our Cancellation Policy before purchasing tickets.

Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets:

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

Heritage Friend Event with North Andover Historical Society
2026-05-07 17:30 - 19:00 | North Andover Historical Society, 800 Massachusetts Ave, North Andover, MA, 01845, United States
Join Essex Heritage for an evening exploring the rich history of this “good inland town” of Essex County. Our next Heritage Friend Event will take place at the headquarters of the North Andover Historical Society, The Stevens Center, a purpose built museum building originally the home of the American Textile History Museum through its first two names and the American Printing Museum until finally becoming the home of the Historical Society in 2019.

Guests will have the opportunity to tour this net-zero certified building, including two exhibit halls, the archive, and community spaces, including their Rev250 exhibit entitled “The Aspirations of Ordinary People.” This exhibit features the first person diary of revolutionary war fighter and carpenter, James Stevens. Attendees will be able to hear the voice of James as passages from his diary are read aloud by a linguist recreating his accent.
This event is free for Essex Heritage members (registration required). Non-member registration is $5 per person. Space is limited, and light refreshments will be provided.
Register HERE.

General John Glover: Unsung Hero of the Revolution
2026-04-29 18:30 - 19:45 | Salem Armory Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join us for a memorable evening of music, history, and conversation as we commemorate the life, military service, and lasting legacy of one of the American Revolution’s most celebrated — and often overlooked — figures.

The evening kicks off with a rousing performance by Scurvy Fellows Indeed, a spirited crew of 18th-century privateers who will entertain with rollicking sea chanteys — audience sing-along strongly encouraged!
Historian Robert Booth then takes us through the compelling story of how John Glover’s Marblehead roots and family ties shaped his path to becoming a Revolutionary War hero.
He is followed by Larry Sands — Captain of Glover’s Marblehead Regiment — who brings Glover’s battlefield career to life with a lively overview of his major engagements and accomplishments.
Nancy Lusignan Schultz, Chair of the Swampscott Historical Commission and President of Save the Glover! Inc., rounds out the presentations with the latest news on the ongoing effort to preserve General Glover’s historic farmhouse.

This program is part of the Conflict & Community: Salem, Essex County, and the American Revolution lecture series. This series is a partnership between Essex Heritage and Salem Maritime National Historical Park and highlights the unique role of Essex County communities during the American Revolution. CLICK HERE or more information about Conflict & Community programs.

Elephants and Sweet Treats: A Storytime of Salem Firsts!
2026-04-23 14:00 - 15:00 | Salem Armory Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Did you know that Salem had the first elephant to ever set foot in America? It’s true!
Join us and the Salem Public Library at the Salem Armory Visitor Center for a storytime of Salem firsts – we’ll be reading books, playing games, making a craft, and enjoying a sweet treat at the end. This event is free and geared towards kids ages 3+, but open to all.
Register HERE.
For kids 3+ (with caregivers)
Click below for a sneak peek of the craft:

A Sailor's Life: Food & Medicine
2026-04-22 14:00 - 15:15 | Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Step into the world of 18th-century sailors and discover how crews survived long voyages at sea. In this hands-on program, kids will learn what sailors ate, how they kept food from spoiling, and what they did when someone got sick.
Become part of a “crew,” choose supplies for your ship, try salting green beans, and even help mix a remedy for scurvy. Led by educator Dan Marshall, this interactive program brings history to life through fun activities and demonstrations.
This FREE event is best for kids ages 7+, but all young explorers are welcome! Space is limited, so please only register the children who will be joining so we can make sure we have enough materials.
REGISTER HERE

This program is presented in partnership with the Salem Maritime National Historical Park as part of the America’s 250th program series.

Spring Annual Meeting
2026-04-16 08:30 - 10:00 | Topsfield Town Hall, 8 West Common Street, Topsfield, MA, 01983, United States
Join us for a morning of networking and regional engagement! The meeting will be held at Topsfield Town Hall (8 West Common Street, Topsfield) on Thursday, April 16 from 9:00 – 10:00 am. Attendees are welcome to arrive at 8:30 am for networking and coffee.
The agenda will include announcing our 2026 Partnership Grant recipients, voting in new Commissioners, regional updates, and more!
Many thanks to the Town of Topsfield for hosting and to Zumi’s for providing coffee!
Please register HERE!

The Sole Man: The Story of Jan Matzeliger
2026-04-15 15:30 - 16:30 | Beverly Public Library, 32 Essex St, Beverly, MA, 01915, United States
Have you ever wondered how shoes are made? Join Essex Heritage and the Beverly Public Library for a fun, hands-on children’s program celebrating the incredible life and legacy of Jan Ernst Matzeliger, the brilliant inventor who revolutionized the shoe industry, right here in Essex County and around the world!
We’ll explore the fascinating history of shoemaking and its impact locally, discover how Jan’s genius invention – the shoe lasting machine – changed the industry, and read The Sole Man by Shana Keller and illustrated by Stephen Costanza, an inspiring picture book about his remarkable journey. Then we’ll get creative with a make-your-own-shoe craft to take home.
This FREE program is perfect for curious kids who love history, inventions, and getting creative. Come ready to learn, listen, and craft!
This program is for children ages 6 and up and registration is required. REGISTER HERE.
Did you know there is a new mural about Jan Matzeliger located in two buildings at the Cummings Center in Beverly? You can visit one by following the directions below:
900 Building
Enter the front entrance to 900 building (signs for Oxford and Altova are on the front). The mural is on the left side near this front entrance.
100 Building
Enter the 135Q door ( on the west side of the 100 building. Walk down the 135 hallway to the first right, turn right and the mural on the left wall.
Thank you to Danvers Historical Society for providing our shoemaking artifacts.

Heritage Friend Event with The House of the Seven Gables (FULL)
2026-03-26 17:30 - 18:30 | The House of the Seven Gables, 115 Derby Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join us for a special behind-the-scenes tour of the 17th century Hooper-Hathaway House co-hosted by The House of the Seven Gables, where you’ll hear stories not shared on a typical visit.
Built in 1682, this First Period house was moved to its current location on the Gables’ museum campus in 1911 by Caroline Emmerton to save it from demolition. For many years it was known locally as the “Old Bakery” before being used by Emmerton as additional space for her settlement house programming. On this tour you’ll discover layers of hidden history and gain a deeper appreciation for one of Salem’s oldest houses.
This free “members only” Heritage Friend Event is at capacity. If you would like to add your name to the waitlist, please email Heather at heatherg@essexheritage.org.

Revolutionary Cures for Scurvy
2026-03-18 18:30 - 20:00 | Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Scurvy — a debilitating disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, was a scourge among sailors, with hundreds of thousands perishing during the colonial period, and during the American Revolutionary War it became a critical strategic factor that severely weakened the British Royal Navy and affected the health of the Continental Army.
Before the concept of vitamin deficiency was known to the world, physicians struggled to find what caused the disease. That did not stop them from developing both herbal and chemical treatments with mixed results. The story of finding a true cure spans the centuries, from ancient references to sailors’ superstitions to the birth of “clinical trials” in the 18th century.
Join Dan Marshall as he dives into both European and American colonial sources that shed light on the effects of scurvy on the body and the many colonial cures recorded for posterity. Afterwards, he will demonstrate the tools and techniques of turning simple ingredients into medicine in the 17th & 18th centuries.
Register HERE.
Dan Marshall is a museum professional who has shared his love of history with the public for over 25 years. He has created and presented countless hands-on public history events, school tour programs, and lectures on a wide range of historical topics. With experience at Colonial Williamsburg, The House of the Seven Gables, Lexington Historical Society, and the City of Salem, Dan is currently serving as Vice President of the Salem Historical Society.

This program is presented in partnership with the National Park Service and Essex Heritage as part of a series; Conflict & Community: Salem, Essex County, and the American Revolution. As the nation marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, this dynamic series brings together diverse voices and experts to examine the Revolution through its many perspectives, lived experiences, and lasting legacies.

Essex Heritage Photo Contest Reception
2026-03-11 17:30 - 19:00 | Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Come celebrate the talented winner’s of the 2025 Essex Heritage Photo Contest during a special reception on Wednesday, March 11th at 5:30 pm at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center in Salem. Light refreshments will be available and the winning photos will be on display. There will be a brief awards ceremony beginning at 6:00 pm.
This event is free and open to the public, you may RSVP here.

Heritage Friend Event with Nahant Historical Society
2026-02-05 17:30 - 19:00 | Nahant Community Center, 41 Valley Road, Nahant, MA, 01908, United States
Join us for a special evening in Nahant as we explore the town’s remarkable history, rare collections, and literary legacy.

Join Essex Heritage and the Nahant Historical Society for an evening exploring the rich history of this small peninsula-town on the southern edge of Essex County. Our next Heritage Friend Event will take place at the Nahant Community Center, a beautiful Georgian-style building erected in 1904. Originally the island’s only public school, it was saved from demolition in the mid-1980s through the efforts of the Nahant Preservation Trust and, in 2003, became the permanent home of the Nahant Historical Society.
Guests will have the opportunity to view the Society’s special collections, including the award-winning exhibition “Nahant on the Rocks,” which traces the community’s evolution from grazing land for Lynn livestock to a fishing hub and, later, a famed summer retreat for Boston’s elite.
The evening will also feature Essex Heritage Trustee Ken Turino, who will share a few words about Nahant’s notable literary history as both a local historian and author.
This event is free for Essex Heritage members (registration required). Non-member registration is $5 per person. Space is limited, and light refreshments will be provided.

Education Forum at North Andover Historical Society
2025-12-16 09:00 - 12:00 | North Andover Historical Society, 800 Massachusetts Ave, North Andover, MA, 01845, United States
Please join us as we spend the morning exploring innovative offerings and education partnerships at North Andover Historical Society, including Rev. 250 and sustainability programming. Hear from educators about the power of local context and network with other professionals in the region.
REGISTER today!
Please feel free to forward this invite to someone else in your organization who would be interested in attending.

Heritage Friend Event at Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm
2025-11-13 17:30 - 19:00 | Private: 5 Little’s Ln, 5 Little’s Lane, Newbury, MA, 01951, United States
Join Essex Heritage for a Heritage Friend Event at Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm in Newbury, hosted in partnership with Historic New England. Explore this remarkable National Historic Landmark featuring a rare 1690 stone manor house — the only 17th century stone house in New England still standing with exterior walls intact.
Guests will have access to the Visitor Center and the first floor of the historic manor house, which was home to wealthy Newburyport merchants spanning several generations. Stroll the beautiful grounds and visit the farm’s friendly animals. This event offers a unique opportunity to experience one of the region’s most historically significant and picturesque properties while enjoying good company and light refreshments.
This event is open to Essex Heritage members FREE of charge but registration is required. Space is limited. Non-member registration is $5.00 per person.
REGISTER HERE

Fall Annual Meeting in Beverly
2025-10-16 08:30 - 10:00 | Lynch Park, 55 Ober, Beverly, MA, 01915
Join us for a morning of networking & regional engagement! The meeting will be held in the Carriage House at Lynch Park, Beverly on Thursday, October 16 from 9:00 – 10:00 am. Attendees are welcome to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 am for networking and coffee.
The agenda will include an update on what’s happening in the Heritage Area, voting in new Commissioners, special awards, and more.
Please register HERE.
Many thanks to Lynch Park for hosting!

Misery Island Mushroom Walk
2025-09-26 16:30 - 19:00, 2025-06-27 16:30 - 19:00 | MA
Explore the fungi of Great Misery Island.
Join us for a guided mushroom walk for all those interested in discovering fungi growing on the Misery Island of the coast of Beverly/Salem. This unique island environment hosts conifer and hardwood trees that provide background to growing fungi. Fungi don’t stop there. Animals nesting and living on this island contribute in a major way to fungi/lichens growth on stone ruins of the island. Join us on an exploratory walk around the island with Jana Harris of Essex Forays, certified in Wild Mushroom Food Safety and member of Boston Mycological Club. Jana will ID mushrooms as we go and learn about edible and nonedible species. The trip will last about 2.5 hrs and will give participants a chance to look close up at mushroom species that thrive in this secluded environment. Depending on weather there will be different types of mushrooms to explore.
Please wear sturdy shoes, long pants, garden gloves, bring a water bottle, tick and bug repellent, ID field guide and basket (optional). Please be aware that there is a lot of poison ivy off the trails on the island so gloves and long pants are highly suggested.
BUY TICKETS
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets:

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:
At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.
Please read through all the FAQ’s and our Cancellation Policy before purchasing tickets.

Trails & Sails 2025
2025-09-13 - 2025-09-28 | MA
Uncover extraordinary stories and landscapes across Essex County during Trails & Sails! This 16-day event series, organized by Essex Heritage, connects you to authentic experiences that reveal what makes this region truly unique — from the historic events that helped shaped America’s founding to the winding waterways and trails that showcase our natural beauty.
With more than 200 completely FREE events spanning all 34 cities and towns of Essex County, there’s never been a better time to explore your own backyard. Visit trailsandsails.org for the complete schedule and discover why this year’s program is bigger and better than ever.

Heritage Friend Event with the Museum of Printing
2025-09-11 17:30 - 19:00 | Private: 15 Thornton Ave, 15 Thornton Avenue, Haverhill, MA, 01832, United States
Join Essex Heritage for a special evening celebrating the history of the printed word.

Join Essex Heritage for a special evening celebrating the history of the printed word. We’re thrilled to invite you to the Museum of Printing in Haverhill, a fantastic non-profit dedicated to preserving the history of graphic arts, typesetting, and printing technologies.
Explore their galleries and exhibits showcasing one of the world’s largest collections of printing hardware and ephemera. The museum also has multiple libraries and a Bible room featuring many rare treasures such as a 1904 Tissot Bible, the first Bible printed with full-color illustrations.
Guests will discover how print shaped culture, communication, and commerce from the earliest days of movable type to modern digital design. You’ll even see an authentic replica of an English Common Press, the kind of wooden hand-press that was used during the American Revolution!
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the roots of the printed page, this is a can’t-miss opportunity to connect with the region’s creative and industrial heritage.
This event is open to Essex Heritage members FREE of charge but registration is required. Space is limited. Non-member registration is $5.00 per person. Light refreshments will be provided.

Shipwrecks of Salem Sound with Captain Ray Bates Jr.
2025-08-22 16:30 - 18:00 | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join us for an exciting harbor tour focused on the infamous shipwrecks of Salem Sound with Captain Ray Bates, Jr.

Come aboard Naumkeag with lifelong historian, author, and local diver, Captain Ray Bates, Jr., for a harbor tour to visit the sites and hear the stories of the many shipwrecks of Salem Sound. Captain Bates has been exploring shipwrecks since 1969 and has written several books on the maritime disasters that have occurred along Boston’s North Shore and Cape Ann. Essex Heritage is thrilled to partner with Ray, as he leads a tour sharing and locating the shipwrecks along the coast of Salem, Beverly and Marblehead, allowing passengers to truly “dig into the past and unearth long-lost stories for themselves.”
All passengers will receive a signed copy of Ray’s book, Shipwrecks North of Boston: Volume 1 , Salem Bay.
Ray Bates will have both volumes of his book and prints of his shipwreck map for sale following the tour.

Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.

Tickets:

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.

Please read through all the FAQ’s and our Cancellation Policy before purchasing tickets.

Cruising Salem Harbor with Reverend William Bentley
2025-08-15 16:30 - 18:00, 2025-07-18 16:30 - 18:00 | MA
During this boat tour follow up to historian Donald Friary’s virtual presentation of Reverend William Bentley’s Salem Harbor, you’ll explore the harbor with Reverend Bentley and learn more about the way he experienced it. According to his diary, Reverend William Bentley seemed to be everywhere.
He saw Salem’s ship captains departing for and returning from voyages around the world to bring exotic goods and new ideas to their home port. Mr. Bentley saw beached whales, shipwrecks, a seven-foot shark, seals and porpoises, lobsters and crabs. He noted ropewalks, shipyards, cooperages, and fish flakes, as well as privateers and smugglers. He was saddened by drownings and marveled at the frozen harbor. He knew all the islands—Bakers, the Miseries, Orne’s, Eagle, Cat, Ram—and impediments to navigation—Half-Way Rock, Kettle Bottom, Abbott’s Rocks, Bowditch’s Ledge.
BUY TICKETS
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets:
Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code was provided in membership confirmation letter)
Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:
At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp without assistance.
Please read through all the FAQ’s and our Cancellation Policy before purchasing tickets.

Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light
2025-07-25 10:00 - 14:00 | MA
Come join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast, Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion out to Bakers Island Light Station, a historic property owned by Essex Heritage.
This 4-hour special trip includes the boat ride aboard Naumkeag and a walking tour of the property with expert Russ Cohen pointing out special species along the trails including the kind you can snack on! Before departing for the main land, enjoy sumac-ade (a natural alternative to Kool-Aid) and a wild goodie or two made by Russ Cohen himself! The wild edibles tour includes over 3 dozen species of edible wild plants that have existed on the island for some time. Also expect to encounter at least six of the additional native wild edible species that were planted last summer.
BUY TICKETS
Please Note:

The lighthouse cannot be climbed at this time.
The rest of the island aside from the 10 acre Light Station is privately owned and all visitors must stay within the 10 acre boundaries.
Guests will not be permitted to visit the Assistant Keeper’s House; that is only accessible to Essex Heritage Members who have booked an overnight stay.
Please read through all the FAQ’s and our Cancellation Policy before purchasing tickets.

Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets:

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip? About 4 hours round-trip
Are there restrictions on who can go? All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp without assistance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and rubber-soled shoes. Flip-flops are not recommended; NO heels. IMPORTANT: It’s colder on the water and there is no shelter from the weather on our open boat. Bring an extra layer!
What should I bring?
Do not bring more than you want to carry; nothing can be left/stored on the boat while we are disembarked. Items left on the Island cannot be retrieved until the next trip which could be anywhere from 2-5 days. Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.
Is there food or drinking water?
Wild edibles may be available to nibble and sip on during this adventure but, it won’t be a full lunch. There will be a scheduled break for lunch, so please pack a sandwich or snacks, if you think you will need it, and make sure to pack water.
Are there bathroom facilities?
The bathroom facilities are limited. There are bathrooms at the Salem Ferry dock, but there are no bathrooms on the boat. Once on the island, there are only composting toilets.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is NOT permitted on the boat or anywhere on the island at all.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are NOT permitted on our boat, with the exception of certified service animals defined by Title II and Title III of the ADA.
Where do I park?
While there are free parking spots at Blaney Street parking is NOT always guaranteed so plan accordingly. (South Harbor Garage at 10 Congress Street is the next closest public lot but they charge an hourly rate, and are a 1/2 mile walk to the dock.)
What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it.
Is there a bathroom onboard?
There are no bathrooms on the boat, but there are restrooms at the Salem Ferry Visitor Center which can be used directly before and after the tour.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled? Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at 978-998-2188.
Questions?
Please call Essex Heritage’s Visitor Information Desk (located in the National Park Service Visitor Center) at 978-224-2036. The Visitor Information Desk is open seven days a week, from 9 AM-5 PM.
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

Treasure Islands of Salem Sound with Chris Leahy
2025-07-11 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-06-27 10:00 - 12:00 | MA
Naturalist Chris Leahy will be leading this nautical exploration of the marine habits of Salem Sound and help you identify all the birds you’ll see along the way. Come enjoy the sights and sounds of Salem Harbor and learn more about the amazing array of bird species who call the north shore home during the summer months.
BUY TICKETS
Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
Tickets
Please read all the information listed below before purchasing your ticket(s).

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! Not a member? Sign up here: essexheritage.org/membership

Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.
What You Need To Know Before You Go! Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trip? About 2 hours round-trip
Are there restrictions on who can go? All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp without assistance.

What if it rains or is stormy?
Boat trips depend on the weather. Naumkeag has no rain or sun cover on it.
Is there a bathroom onboard?
There are no bathrooms on the boat, but there are restrooms at the Salem Ferry Visitor Center which can be used directly before and after the tour.
What is the Cancellation Policy?

If Essex Heritage cancels the boat trip: If it is too rainy or stormy or the seas are too rough, and Essex Heritage has to cancel the boat trip, you will be fully refunded the cost of your ticket
If ticket holder cancels: If you cancel because you think it is too sunny, rainy, windy or whatever, but the boat still goes, tickets are non-refundable.

How will I know if my tour has been cancelled? Essex Heritage staff will do our best to email all ticketed passengers in advance if your trip has been cancelled. We will also keep an updated weather advisory line at 978-998-2188.
Questions?
Please call Essex Heritage’s Visitor Information Desk (located in the National Park Service Visitor Center) at 978-224-2036. The Visitor Information Desk is open seven days a week, from 9 AM-5 PM.
Essex Heritage does not assume responsibility for any lost or stolen personal property.

Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light
2025-06-20 10:00 - 14:00 | Salem Ferry Dock, 10 Blaney St, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
Join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion at Bakers Island Light.

Explore Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light Station
Come join naturalist and wild foods enthusiast, Russ Cohen on a special edible excursion out to Bakers Island Light Station, a historic property owned by Essex Heritage.
This 4-hour special trip includes the boat ride aboard Naumkeag and a walking tour of the property with expert Russ Cohen pointing out special species along the trails including the kind you can snack on! Before departing for the main land, enjoy sumac-ade (a natural alternative to Kool-Aid) and a wild goodie or two made by Russ Cohen himself! The wild edibles tour includes over 3 dozen species of edible wild plants that have existed on the island for some time. Also expect to encounter at least six of the additional native wild edible species that were planted last summer.
BUY TICKETS
Please Note:

The lighthouse cannot be climbed at this time.
The rest of the island aside from the 10 acre Light Station is privately owned and all visitors must stay within the 10 acre boundaries.
Guests will not be permitted to visit the Assistant Keeper’s House; that is only accessible to Essex Heritage Members who have booked an overnight stay.
Please read through all the FAQ’s and our Cancellation Policy before purchasing tickets.

Boat Departure Location: Naumkeag departs from the Salem Ferry dock at 10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970.

Tickets:

Adults: $40
Children (4-12 yr): $25
Essex Heritage Members receive a 20% discount! (A discount code will be provided on membership confirmation letter.)

Are there restrictions on who can go?
YES. All passengers must be:

At least 4 years old (No infants; in arms or baby carriers)
Capable of negotiating the boat ramp and the rugged island terrain without assistance.
