Gadling

Just one hour north of Boston, sandwiched between the Merrimack and Ipswich Rivers and the Atlantic Ocean is the adorable town of Newburyport — population: 7,500. This quaint coastal town, with its New England charm, boutique shops along State Street, and brick-lined pedestrian mall, makes a perfect weekend getaway. The great thing about Newburyport is that it’s easily accessible by train or by car. Either hop on the I-95 North and head east on Route 113 or take the commuter rail from Boston and walk to the center of town. Whatever you do, make this quintessential New England town your homebase for coastal explorations.

Where to Stay

• Essex Street Inn: Built in 1880, the Inn stands on the site of Lucky Livery Stable, which burned down in the Great Fire of 1811. The old stable was razed and built into a conservative Victorian home. This cozy bed and breakfast is less than a block from the main action of State Street, and has a warm New England charm. Rooms start at $120 per night.
• 167 Water B&B: Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat, a romantic getaway, or simply want to experience a natural wonder, you will find comfort in this charming riverside home. There are just two rooms with a shared bath — both with tasteful European and African decor. Rooms start at $85 per night.

Where to Eat

• Fowles Diner (State Street; M-F 7-3 p.m., Sat-Sun 7-4 p.m.): Having been a part of Newburyport since 1865, Fowles is a community icon. Part diner, part café, the place is always buzzing with locals and weekenders alike. Delectable breakfast dishes are served until 11 a.m. on weekdays and noon on weekends. Even more appetizing is Fowle’s Summer Coolers, which filled with goodies for catered picnics ($14.99/adult; $9.95/kids under 12). Fowles Diner is not to be mistaken with Fowles Gourmet Market, located at 341 High Street (#978.465.9028), which since 1903 has been Newburyport’s main meat market and deli.
• The Purple Onion: Serving up eclectic wraps and sandwiches since the fall of 2000, this is not your average fast food joint, the Onion’s generous portions and pleasantly bright seating area and courtyard make it one of the coziest places to grab some midday grub.
• Agave Mexican Bistro (50 State Street, #978-499-0428): Newburyport’s only authentic Mexican restaurant with three floors of dining, each bringing its own unique atmosphere. The menu includes a wide variety of dishes.
• The Grog: Newburyport’s ever-lively pub is the best place to drink some local brew and have a decent dinner at the same time. Closing in on 50 years of service, the Grog is Newburyport’s most beloved watering hole.

What to See & Do

• Oldies Marketplace: An antique lover’s delight! Score some great deals at one of the state’s biggest antique market. From toy cars to old chests, this place has a perfect vintage feel and the best deals in New England.
• Tannery Marketplace: If the Oldies’s knick-knacks aren’t your thing, head to the Tannery Marketplace for local gift shopping and relaxation. There’s a vibrant farmers market on Sunday’s from 10-2 p.m.
• Plum Island: Take Water Street east of Newburyport and cross over the Plum Island Turnpike and Bridge to the quaint island of Plum Island. Check out the island’s photogenic range light on its northern peninsula, which borders the Merrimack River, or simply enjoy the sun on its sandy eastern shores. The salt-water marshes on the western edge of the island make Plum a popular migratory route for piping plovers, geese, ducks, and other birds.
• Bike the Salisbury coastline: Bring your bike and hit the paved and bike-friendly roads of Salisbury’s eastern shores. Developed by the coastal trails coalition, Salisbury has some really scenic routes between Beach Road and State Reservation Road.

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