The Essex National Heritage Area is a federally designated region that encompasses the geographic area of Essex County, Massachusetts. This region contains unique natural, historic, and cultural assets that make it a place like nowhere else.
Cities and Towns
The Essex National Heritage Area consists of the 34 cities and towns that makes up Essex County, located on the North Shore and Merrimack Valley in Massachusetts. These cities and towns offer their own unique landscapes, history, and opportunities for exploration.
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Regional Visitor Centers
Essex Heritage has partnerships with 13 welcome/visitor centers all over the county; Located in Beverly, Gloucester, Haverhill, Ipswich, Lawrence, Lynn, Marblehead, Newburyport, Peabody, Rockport, Salem, Salisbury, and Saugus. Through our…
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Bakers Island Light Station
Essex Heritage operates and maintains the 10-acre historic Bakers Island Light Station at Bakers Island, with the mission of public access and preservation. Bakers Island Light Station is located on…
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Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 90-mile roadway links 14 coastal communities from Lynn to Salisbury and features scenic views, period architecture, historic sites and recreational opportunities. With the twin goals of preserving the byway’s…
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Heritage At Home
The site includes online repositories from cultural institutions and helpful information regarding natural resource sites.
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Border To Boston
The Border to Boston Trail is a 70-mile shared-use trail that links approximately 20 communities from the New Hampshire border to Boston for non-motorized uses including walking, bicycling, and more….
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Trails & Sails
Trails & Sails is an event series that brings awareness and appreciation for heritage resources around the county. Historically, Trails & Sails has focused on outdoor activities such as guided…
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Events
Jul
18
2025
Cruising Salem Harbor with Reverend William Bentley
Jul
25
2025
Wild Edibles at Bakers Island Light
Aug
15
2025
Cruising Salem Harbor with Reverend William Bentley
Sep
11
2025
