Discover Historic Amesbury: A Walkable Small-Town Gem & Perfect Day Trip from Cider Hill Farm

If you’re planning a New England getaway, historic Amesbury, Massachusetts should be at the top of your list. Just minutes from Cider Hill Farm, this charming downtown is a walkable haven of indie shops, great food, craft beer, and rich history all wrapped in classic New England character.

At Cider Hill Farm, we often hear visitors describe their day here as perfectly balanced between farm fun and downtown exploration. From morning apple or berry picking to boutique browsing, craft cider sipping, and a delicious meal in town, Amesbury has something for every traveler.

Find fresh flower bouquets inside Cider Hill Farm's Farm Store

Start Your Day at Cider Hill Farm

There’s no better way to begin your Amesbury adventure than with a visit to the farm named the #1 apple picking destination in the U.S. and one of the most beautiful farms in the world.

Here’s what you can enjoy on the farm:

• Pick-your-own fruit and flowers (tulips, berries, peaches, apples)

• Famous fresh apple cider donuts and seasonal baked goods

• Award-winning hard cider or fresh cider tastings

• Family activities, hayrides, live music, and festivals

• Farm Store stocked with local goodies and farmhouse gifts

Open daily from spring through mid-December. Make a day of it: sip a refreshing cider at the outdoor bar, bring a picnic blanket by the orchard, and take in the scenic 145-acre farm views - you won’t find a more quintessential Amesbury experience.

Explore Historic Downtown Amesbury

After your farm visit, head into downtown Amesbury just a short drive away. With its brick sidewalks and historic architecture, the walkable downtown is full of independent shops, cafés, and galleries. Here’s what you’ll find:

1. Market Square Bakehouse – scratch-made pastries and locally roasted coffee

2. Boutique clothing and home décor shops with unique, curated finds

3. Artisanal chocolate shops and local sweet treats

4. Downtown Amesbury’s small-town atmosphere makes it easy to spend a few hours browsing, sipping, and discovering things you didn’t even know you were looking for.

Photograph by Joel Laino

Sip Local Craft Beer & Great Food

Amesbury’s food and drink scene is worth the trip on its own. Whether you’re craving a relaxed lunch, a cozy dinner, or a refreshing craft beer, there’s plenty to choose from:

• Mill 77 Brewing, Brewery Silvaticus, and BareWolf Brewing – three unique local craft breweries with delicious brews and community vibes

• Local restaurants serving fresh, seasonal fare

• Nearby ice cream and dessert spots for a sweet finish to your day

Whether you’re pairing cider from Cider Hill with a brewery flight or sampling a seasonal brew while strolling town, Amesbury’s food and drink offerings offer a true taste of the North Shore.

View from Cider Hill Farm's Scenic Overlock looking with a view of Powow Hill

History, Trails & Outdoor Fun

Amesbury isn’t just pretty - it’s rich in New England history and scenic outdoor spaces:

1. Lowell’s Boat Shop – America’s oldest continuously operating wooden boat shop, crafting traditional dories since 1793

2. Powow Riverwalk Trail – a paved trail along the water perfect for walking or biking

3. Lake Gardner and local parks – ideal for a summer swim or peaceful nature walk

After a farm morning, take a scenic walk or historical tour to round out your visit with active exploration and beautiful views.

Visit Amesbury

Amesbury is more than a destination - it’s an experience. When you pair the rustic charm and farm fun of Cider Hill Farm with the downtown’s culinary spots, craft breweries, and cultural highlights, you create an unforgettable day that celebrates the best of small-town New England. Whether you’re planning a family outing, romantic weekend escape, cider tasting adventure or a shopping + dining day trip, Amesbury has all the ingredients for a perfect visit.

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