Amesbury, Massachusetts, Is Underrated and Essential to Visit

When it comes to pretty, small Massachusetts towns with activities, a little nightlife, natural beauty, and history, one Massachusetts town often gets neglected.

The big hitters like Boston, Cambridge, and Provincetown get the most recognition. Right behind them would be a Cape Cod town or Newburyport.

Well, Amesbury, Massachusetts, is sick of being known as Newburyport's adopted cousin. It is time to put some respect on Amesbury, MA, as one of the essential Massachusetts towns to visit.

Is Amesbury, Massachusetts, a Good Place to Visit?

Without a doubt. Because Amesbury is so close to more well-known areas like Portsmouth, Hampton, and Newburyport, it is often less explored.

But the locals know it is one of the best downtowns in all of New England, with gorgeous brickwork throughout the downtown and hidden gems if you're willing to veer away from the other Massachusetts hotspots like Newburyport.

Best Restaurants in Amesbury, Massachusetts

There are honestly too many to name. Some are tiny, and reservations are clearly required, while others seem like a small pub but offer some of the best food and a local atmosphere in Massachusetts.

Phat Cats Bistro: Divine food. Hole in the wall.
Barking Dog Bar & Grill: Your "local" pub with incredible service and a "hometown" feel.
Ristorante Molise: Gorgeous, romantic, Italian setting with top their Italian food.
There are also three breweries in Amesbury: Brewery Silvaticus, Mill 77, and BareWolf Brewing.

What to do in Amesbury, Massachusetts

Obviously, walking downtown is an easy way to kill an afternoon. There are tons of shops to pop in, a paint and sip business, and a river with a waterfall running through the brickwork of the 1668 town.

There are public beaches on beautiful lakes like Lake Gardner and Lake Attitash. There are trails at the Amesbury Town Forest. There is a disc golf course, a splash pad, and a huge playground at Amesbury Town Park.

This is an underrated town with some of the best eateries in Massachusetts. Don't sleep on Amesbury, MA.

5 Best Italian Restaurants in New Hampshire

New Hampshire might not be known for the best Italian food but we have some establishments in the state the bring the quality and authenticity when it comes to Italian cuisine. This author has done the legwork (and by legwork I mean eaten a lot of pasta in the name of research) and I have highlighted my top five Italian Restaurant picks in the state of New Hampshire.

Gallery Credit: Kira Lew