21+ Best Things To Do In Salisbury MA

Looking for the best things to do in Salisbury Massachusetts? Whether you’re going to Salisbury in the summer or winter, there are plenty of fun activities available!

Salisbury Massachusetts has an old-school, townie vibe that’s really fun if you’re looking for a good time! As a kid, I always loved heading to the arcades in the summer. Salisbury fills up quickly during the warm months with vacationers and it’s a real trip!

There may not be as many things to do in Salisbury MA as there are things to do in Newburyport, but there are still plenty of fun activities.

Here are the top things to do in Salisbury Massachusetts that you won’t want to miss!

21. Spend A Day At Salisbury Beach State Reservation

One of the most popular attractions in Salisbury MA, this state park offers a pristine beach, scenic picnic areas, and excellent fishing opportunities. You can take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, sunbathe on the sandy shores, or explore the trails that wind through the nearby dunes.

Salisbury Beach reservation is huge and is definitely perfect for a full day of fun. You will need to pay to enter (ticket prices depend on the time of year) but won’t have trouble finding a spot on the beach. While the waves aren’t as rough as the nearby Plum Island, you still need to be careful of the undertow occasionally.

While we love heading to the reservation for a beach day, there’s also a campground if you’re more of an overnight person.

If you’d prefer not to pay, then you can head to the beach accesses (the beach that’s only accessible behind homes down the strip) and try your luck with on-street parking. But there won’t be any amenities, so you’ll need to bring your own chairs, food, drinks, etc.

20. Walk The Salisbury Point Ghost Trail

Looking to take a mini hike? Head to the Salisbury Point Ghost Trail.

At Bartlett St. crossing, there is a parking area located 1.8 miles west of Lion’s Park. The trail is a well-maintained, hard-packed stone dust trail that can be walked or biked. In the early Spring, you will see native wildflowers as you pass through beautiful woodlands.

The route is named for the “ghost” trains that routed early automobile bodies from Fisher Body in Amesbury to Boston, Detroit, and New York in white muslin shrouds.

In addition to passenger service, people were able to travel throughout New England by rail from the Salisbury MA rail line. Passenger service ended in 1936.

While there isn’t much actually spooky about this trail, it’s really gorgeous during the summer! This is one of the best things to do in Salisbury Massachusetts for nature lovers.

19. See A Concert At The Blue Ocean Music Hall

This intimate music venue is located right on Salisbury Beach and hosts a wide range of concerts and events throughout the year. You can enjoy live music while taking in the stunning ocean views.

The Blue Ocean Music Hall has concerts year-round as well as other events like well-known comedians, medium readings, etc. Tickets are usually quite affordable. This is always a fun night out, especially if you get a group together! I recommend making a reservation at Seaglass (the gorgeous restaurant right next door) for dinner before your event.

Check out upcoming tickets here.

18. Eat Outdoors At Surfside Beach Bar And Grille

If you’re looking for a delicious meal and great people-watching, head to Surfside Beach Bar & Grille. This popular spot serves up surf and turf dishes, along with classic beach fare like fresh seafood and burgers. After your meal, take a stroll on the boardwalk or relax at one of their outdoor seating areas.

We absoluely love eating on the huge deck and listening to live music! This spot is literally right on the ocean. It has a casual, beachy vibe that’s so fun in the summer. Don’t miss out on the frozen drinks!

17. Spend An Afternoon At The Arcades

The arcades of Salisbury Beach are always a good time. Whether you’re playing classic arcade games or trying your hand at the claw machines, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you’ll get to take in the views of the ocean while playing! We recommend heading to Joe’s Playland right in downtown Salisbury MA.

This is the perfect place to have some family fun – but make sure you bring some change because tokens are needed to play the games. It’s definitely worth it though, as you can win prizes at many of the games. Plus, there is plenty of good food in this area so you don’t have to worry about going hungry!

Keep in mind that nothing here is super upscale, but that’s all part of the charm.

16. Have A Fancy Dinner At Seaglass Restaurant & Lounge

If you’re looking for a more upscale night out, head to Seaglass Restaurant and Lounge. This elegant eatery is located right on Salisbury Beach and offers stunning ocean views with every meal. The menu has a wide range of seafood dishes, from sushi to filet mignon.

This restaurant makes for the perfect date night spot. It’s cozy and secluded, but also offers enough space for larger dinner parties. Make sure you make reservations ahead of time because it gets pretty busy in the summer! You might want to dress up a bit since the atmosphere is more formal. This is one of our favorite spots during all four seasons – it’s gorgeous in the summer and so cozy in the winter.

15. Grab A Bite At The Deck Restaurant

The Deck Restaurant is a great spot for a casual meal. The outdoor deck overlooks the Merrimac river, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy some classic seafood dishes while taking in the stunning waterfront views. Their menu has something for everyone – whether you’re looking for burgers or salads, you’ll definitely find something that suits your tastes here.

The Deck is a really fun casual spot during the summer. There are multiple decks to choose from and it’s always a party scene! There’s sometimes live music, too. We recommend sipping on a beer, enjoying some fried food, and taking in the classic New England scenery.

While this spot isn’t located right in downtown Salisbury MA, it’s only a short drive away and is directly across from downtown Newburyport (where there are also tons of fun restaurants). It’s definitely worth the drive – it’s one of the most fun spots right now!

14. Check Out Nearby Plum Island

Plum Island is a great spot for a day trip. It’s only about 20 minutes outside of Salisbury and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can drive along the oceanfront, exploring lighthouses and beaches as you go. There are also plenty of restaurants to choose from if you want to stop for lunch.

This 10-mile stretch of coastline is a great way to spend the day. You can also explore the island’s nature trails and wildlife sanctuaries if you’re looking for something more low-key. Make sure you bring your camera – there are some beautiful views here!

13. Get Beach Pizza At Tripoli’s or Cristy’s

Beach pizza is a classic and you have to try it when in Salisbury! There are two main spots – Tripoli’s and Cristy’s. Both offer delicious, square-styled beach pizzas with wood-fired crusts and flavorful toppings. These are a must-try when you’re in town!

Cristy’s is right in the downtown area (it’s outdoor counter service) while Tripoli’s is a short drive away. Beach pizza is a classic in Salisbury Massachusetts – locals will have fights over which place is better!

12. Go To The Salisbury Farmer’s Market

The Salisbury Farmer’s Market is a great spot to get some local produce, baked goods, and crafts. This market runs every Thursday afternoon in the central downtown area and has been a local favorite for years.

You can find everything from farmstead cheeses to fresh herbs here. It’s also a great spot to find handmade cards and jewelry. If you’re looking for something unique, this is definitely the place to go!

The Salisbury Farmer’s Market is a great way to spend an afternoon – you can get some fresh goods while also getting a chance to meet some of the locals. It’s definitely worth checking out!

11. Check Out The Flowers At Pettengill Farm

Pettengill Farm is a historic flower farm located about 5 minutes outside of Salisbury Center. The farm offers incredible greenhouses, gardens, and even flower classes.

The flower gardens are open to the public and are absolutely stunning. If you’re looking for some beautiful photo spots or just need to get away from it all, this is the place to go. There are countless different types of flowers here and the views are incredible. If you’re looking for something beautiful and peaceful, Pettengill Farm is a must-see!

10. Get Acai Bowls On The Beach At Groundswell Surf Café

Looking for things to do in Salisbury around lunchtime? Groundswell Surf Café is a great spot for a quick snack or meal. It’s located right on Salisbury Beach and offers a wide selection of acai bowls, smoothies, sandwiches, and more.

The beach location makes this café the perfect spot to enjoy some delicious snacks while taking in the stunning ocean views. You can quite literally enjoy your bowl with your feet in the sand! Groundswell has a real Cali vibe that’s so much fun. If you don’t have a lot of time then this is one of the best things to do in Salisbury to get a feel for the downtown!

9. Meet The Locals At The Hideaway Pub

Looking for a true local bar? Look no further than The Hideaway Pub. This is a great spot to grab a beer, catch up with friends, and chill out in the AC.

The Hideaway has been around for years and it’s become an institution in the Salisbury area. It quickly became the favorite watering hole for locals after opening its doors. So grab a pint and strike up a conversation with the friendly locals.

The Hideaway is located right across the street from the beach, making it an ideal spot for anyone staying at a home along the water.

8. Spend The Day At Hampton Beach

Hampton Beach is one of the most popular beaches in New England. It’s only about ten minutes away from Salisbury and offers plenty of activities like fishing, swimming, boating, lounging on the beach, or surfing. But more important, Hampton Beach is home to a strip that is almost as eclectic as the Jersey Shore.

Here, you’ll find general stores with fresh seafood, classic arcades, and plenty of bars where you can grab some drinks and dance the night away.

We recommend checking out the local restaurants for super fresh seafood, heading to Bernie’s Beach Bar for a casual afternoon of frozen drinks and cornhole, and listening to live music.

No matter what your style, Hampton Beach has something for everyone! It’s definitely packed during the summer so expect to see all types of people.

7. Enjoy An Italian Meal At Capri Seaside Italian Grille

Capri Seaside Italian Grille is a classic Italian restaurant located right at Salisbury beach. They offer fresh seafood and pasta, brick-oven pizzas, and delicious Italian desserts.

The restaurant’s location makes it the perfect spot for a romantic evening. It’s also one of the best things to do in Salisbury during the winter because it’s so cozy inside! If you need to get away from the sun, head to Capri for some delicious food.

6. Drive The Coast Up New Hampshire

New Hampshire is known for its beautiful coastline and Salisbury is the perfect starting point. Take a drive up the coast to enjoy some stunning ocean views, quaint towns, and local eateries.

Be sure to check out Rye Beach, Hampton Beach State Park, Wallis Sands State Park, and Odiorne Point State Park. You’ll find plenty of places to stop and explore along the way. With its stunning views, dramatic cliffs, and white sand beaches, this drive is one of the best things to do in Salisbury.

5. Experience Art At The Salisbury Art Stroll

The Salisbury Art Walk takes place every year in April. During that time, various galleries and venues throughout Salisbury open their doors to showcase local art from painters, potters, sculptors, photographers, jewelry makers, glass blowers, and more.

This is a great way to connect with the local arts community as you check out unique pieces of art that are sure to inspire. Plus, it’s free! This is a great activity for anyone looking to spend an afternoon exploring the city.

4. Explore The Salisbury Historical Society

This museum and research center offers a glimpse into the past. You can learn more about local history and discover artifacts from the area’s first inhabitants. The Salisbury Historical Society also hosts occasional events, so be sure to check out their website for more information.

The Salisbury Historical Society is a great place to learn more about this little coastal town. They have interesting exhibits with plenty of information, and knowledgeable staff who are happy to answer any questions you may have. Plus, they’re open year-round so it’s always a great day trip idea!

3. Go On A Whale Watch

Salisbury is home to some of the best whale-watching spots in the world. Head out on a boat and you might spot gray whales, humpback whales, fin whales, or several other species.

Whale-watching tours are available all summer long, so book one today! You’ll get to enjoy the stunning views while learning more about some amazing creatures. This is definitely one of the top things to do in Salisbury Massachusetts!

We recommend departing from downtown Newburyport, which is just a short drive away. There are tons of fun things to do in Newburyport as well as Salisbury, but whale-watching is top of the list for both places!

Click here to check out some of the local whale-watching boats.

2. Go To The Movies

Rainy day? No problem! There’s a huge movie theater in Salisbury that’s super popular. It’s a great spot to catch the latest blockbuster or an independent film – and it’s also reasonably priced.

Take a break from sightseeing and head to the theater for some quality entertainment! Plus, it’s conveniently located near the highway in Salisbury (the other popular area as compared to downtown) so you won’t have to drive too far.

You can head either to Vision Max theater or Cinemagic. We like both depending on what’s showing! This is definitely one of the best things to do in Salisbury on a rainy day.

1. Play Mini Golf

There’s nothing quite like a game of mini golf on a beautiful summer day. At mini golf, you can challenge your friends and family to a friendly competition.

The Captain’s Corner is definitely the place to be. It’s a cute little small-town mini golf center with plenty of room, ice cream, and running water. Plus, it’s open all summer long which makes it a great spot for a day trip.

So grab your putter and head to Captain’s Corner for some mini-golf fun! It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon with friends or family.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach, a scenic hike, or a spooky adventure, Salisbury, MA has something for everyone. With its charming small-town atmosphere and endless attractions, it’s the perfect destination for your next getaway.