A Day Trip to Salisbury

Posted by Kristina Smith, guest blogger of North of Boston Convention and Visitor's Bureau

Located at the most northeastern point in the state of Massachusetts, Salisbury has been an acclaimed seaside retreat since the 19^th century.
Just 40 minutes north of Boston, on the Massachusetts/New Hampshire border, Salisbury is accessible via I-495, I-95 and Route 1, making it a convenient drive from the capital.
This North Shore summer getaway has fantastic entertainment, dining, shopping, and that’s just to start.
One of Massachusetts’ most popular ocean-side destinations, the Salisbury Beach State Reservation, features 3.8 miles of pristine coastline. What better way to spend a hot summer day than by swimming, playing, or sunning at this state park?
Fun at the reservation doesn’t stop at the coastline – the 521-acre park also features a 484-site campground, playground, pavilion area, and more. Daily parking is available in its spacious parking lot – the fee is $14 for MA vehicles and $16 for non-MA vehicles.

Salisbury Beach by Gary Miles

Salisbury Beach is a terrific destination year-round. As summer visitors leave, harbor seals and many different bird species come out to play during fall and winter, making the beach a great destination for wildlife photographers/enthusiasts. (Please note that the Salisbury Beach jetty will be under construction through November 2015 and all access to the jetty will be prohibited).
The fun at Salisbury Beach also doesn’t end as the sun sets; the Salisbury Beach Partnership offers free weekly beachfront concerts, fireworks, classic car shows, and more throughout the summer and early fall. Check out the calendar of events at http://beachfests.org/.
No visit to Salisbury would be complete without a visit to Joe’s Playland, the coolest entertainment complex on the North Shore. A Salisbury Beach staple, Joe’s Playland features two floors of state-of-the-art games, alongside retro arcade favorites.

Skeeball at Joe’s Playland

Try your hand at skeeball or challenge friends and family to a game of air hockey! The best part is, there’s no need to stop for lunch – Joe’s Playland offers great food from Lee’s Seafood, plus their celebrated caramel corn, cotton candy, and the best frappes you’ve ever had (for non-New England readers, a frappe is like a milkshake but thicker and oh-so-yummier. Trust me on this one).
From Louis Armstrong to the Ramones, Salisbury has a rich history of amazing musical performances and concerts. The Blue Ocean Music Hall, located at The Pavilion, is keeping this tradition alive with a fantastic lineup of the best music, stand-up comedy, and more.

Blue Ocean Music Hall. Photo courtesy of the Atlantic Hospitality Group

Despite being a spacious 6,000 square-foot facility, most seats at the Blue Ocean Music Hall are a mere 50 feet from the stage, putting you right there with the performers. It’s no wonder that Blue Ocean has been called the “best live music venue on Boston’s North Shore!” Check out its great line-up at http://www.blueoceanhall.com/.
Before or after the show, visit By the Sea Gifts and browse its wonderful selection of unique gifts and accessories. Whether you’re looking for an exquisite piece of jewelry or whimsical décor, By the Sea Gifts offers a little something for everyone (and always at an unbeatable price!).
Looking for fantastic food and an unparalleled view of the beach? Seaglass Restaurant and Lounge has it all! Also located at The Pavilion, Seaglass features traditional American seafood favorites, paired with a chic coastal interior, taking “beach chic” to a new, upscale level.

Seaglass view. Photo courtesy of the Atlantic Hospitality Group.

Seaglass uses only the freshest ingredients in its inspired menu and has a wonderful wine list, in addition to a fine selection of specialty cocktails. For weekend visitors, Seaglass also offers a marvelous Sunday Brunch by the Sea every Sunday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
On the heels of your meal, the perfect dessert is just a short drive away at the New England Chocolate Company.
In its Salisbury retail location, NECC handcrafts the finest Belgian chocolate confections, from irresistible caramels, truffles, and creams to decadent peanut butter cups, turtles, and peppermint patties (pro tip: if you’re visiting in the fall, ask about their chocolate/caramel apples, which are out of this world!).

A box and a star from NECC

Can’t wait until your visit to Salisbury to get your chocolate fix? No problem! You can purchase any of New England Chocolate Company’s treats via their online store or by calling 978-465-9295.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a week of summer fun, Salisbury is the ideal place to make the most out of your Massachusetts vacation. From long walks on the beach followed by a delicious seafood dinner to hours of arcade fun and tempting confections, this coastal town will leave you smiling.
Kristina Smith is the Communications Coordinator at the North of Boston Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. To get in touch with her, send her an email at [email protected].