There are some drives that are so scenic, so epic, you may feel as though you’re dreaming. As you drive, you “ooh” and “aah” over the remarkable vistas along the way. One byway that will drive through some of the most gorgeous scenery in the state is the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway. This scenic coastal drive in Massachusetts is one of the most beautiful road trips you can take.
While scenic byways are rarely ever a direct route to get from point A to point B, they provide an opportunity to explore an area in ways you never thought possible.
coastalbyway.org
If you find yourself on Cape Ann, take the scenic route! The Essex Coastal Scenic Byway is the best way to explore the North Shore of Massachusetts.
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway/Facebook
This 90-mile stretch of road will take you through 14 communities between the towns of Lynn and Salisbury. You’ll see plenty of coastline as well as historic towns with charming downtown areas.
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway/Facebook
The start of this stunning coastal drive is in Lynn. Spend some time exploring the downtown area before heading to the coastal town of Swampscott. From there, you will drive to Marblehead, a town with plenty of historic sites and scenery.
Flickr Rick Harris
The bewitching town of Salem is next and there are more than enough attractions to explore here. After you’ve had your fill, get back onto the byway for the next town, Beverly which is followed by Manchester-by-the-Sea.
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway/Facebook
The rocky coastline of Gloucester and Rockport are the next destinations along this route before you reach Essex. In Essex, do yourself a favor and stop at Woodman’s for some delicious seafood.
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway/Facebook
To complete the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway, you’ll also travel through Ipswich, Rowley, Newbury, Newburyport, and, finally, Salisbury. Each town along the route offers gorgeous scenery, waterfront areas, and plenty of sites. Stop and explore each town or just enjoy the drive!
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway/Facebook
Have you taken this scenic coastal drive In Massachusetts? Let us know in the comments! Visit the official website and follow the Facebook page to learn more about the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway.
coastalbyway.org
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway/Facebook
Flickr Rick Harris
You may also want to consider taking a scenic drive between Cape Cod and Cape Ann.
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Address: North Shore, MA, USA
