TRAILS - 

Cox Reservation - trail out to the river ( great swim + picnic spot ) 

Cogswell Grant - historical house + meadow leading to the river ( also a great swim + picnic spot ) 

The Monoliths- rocky uphill woods hike to some HUGE boulders!

Manchester Essex Woods 

 

EXPERIENCE - 

Essex Ship Building Museum - the heart and soul of Essex- 

Cape Ann Stand Up Paddle - guided paddle boarding tours   

Essex River Cruise  - take a cruise down river and see what Essex is all about <3

Agawam Fishing Charter 

Where to EAT -

The Mill - coffee, sandwiches and pre-made meals. grab and go to the Cox Reservation for a picnic with a view. 

Riversbend - wood fired pizza 

CK Pearl

Great Marsh Brewery

Woodmans

Farnhams 

Utopia Farm Stand - 1 Atwater Ave. ( Essex / Manchester line - off of exit 50 coming into Essex )

Down River Ice Cream 

Mayflour Bakery

 

PLACES STAY - 

Shea’s Riverside Inn 

SHOPPING IN ESSEX - 

Diamonds & Rust - Home Studio -Book An Appointment

Our deep appreciation for New England, coastal towns, classic styles, practical products, and a devotion to small businesses and artisans has refined our focus. At Diamonds & Rust, you'll find thoughtfully selected vintage and antique items, as well as new, American-made products.

Finding the perfectly broken-in denim jacket, super soft vintage tees, and heavy hand-knit wool sweater gives you a sense of timelessness, comfort, nostalgia, and authenticity. 

Each piece has its own story to tell.

Other Vintage + Antique Shops:

The White Barn - 55 John Wise Ave 3,500 square foot barn filled with consigned furniture  

Andrew Spindler - 163 Main Street- an eclectic collection of antiques 

Main Street Antiques - 44 Main Street -  three floors filled to the brim with old stuff.

Howard’s Flying Dragon - 136 Main Street 

Essex Exchange - 101 John Wise Ave