Newburyport, Massachusetts, is one of the maritime communities of New England that is both historic and entertaining. You can take the kids to the Maritime Museum or the Cushing House Museum & Garden, but the pace may be a little slow for active kids. Engage children in land activities, bearing in mind that the ocean is also their playground. Parents and teachers in Newburyport have a plethora of choices that will keep children enthralled.
Playground
For younger children who want to burn off some energy while having fun, visit Perkins Playground at 15 Beacon Ave. There's traditional playground equipment such as a seesaw, slide, monkey bars, spring-mounted animals and a jungle gym. Older children might enjoy playing tennis or getting a group together to play on the baseball field.
Rock Climbing
An safe indoor rock-climbing center on Parker Avenue, Metro Rock offers exhilarating exercise for all ages, starting with pre-kindergarten beginners through advanced, competitive climbing teams. Experienced instructors build confidence, focus, trust and physical fitness with after-school programs, birthday parties, sleep-overs and summer camp.
Whale Watching
The Newburyport Whale Watch is not only invigorating and suspenseful, but educational. Teachers plan class trips with the hopes of seeing Humpbacks, Minkes and Finback Whales. Even the earth's largest mammal, a blue whale, was once spotted here. Parents should plan to make reservations and expect to take up a half day for a weekend trip.
Deep Sea Fishing
Obsessed Charters and Atlantis Charter both sail saltwater sport fishing vessels out of Newburyport. Family members won't want to come home until each person catches a fish. Packages for families include bait and tackle with trolling and casting for bluefish and bass. Free fish cleaning is done on board, with tipping expected. Lobster fishing and tours up the Merrimack River for sightseeing may also be offered.
The Beach
Take the kids on an adventure to Plum Island. It costs a nominal amount to park at this gem of Newburyport, but after that expense an entire day can be enjoyed in the sand of the pristine beach of Plumb Island. Part of the fun is to frolic among the sand dunes and to collect shells. Salt marshes and a 600-acre national wildlife refuge also grace the island, offering respite from the sun and the hunting for a myriad variety of birds to watch.
Something Different
While enjoying the all of the unusual attractions of Plum Island, take the children to the Plum Island Soap Co. Since their senses of sight, touch and sound have already most likely been stimulated by the island, let them indulge in the each soap's scent and to choose the ones they like best.
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