Exploring downtown manchester: restaurants, shopping, history and a lot more

This small North Shore town charms visitors with its walkability, history, restaurants and shops

Getting to Manchester is easy – it’s just south of Route 128, accessed by two highway exits, Pine and School Streets. Let’s take a look a several activities that will give you a real feel for the town. 

Downtown stroll 

Parking is a challenge in Manchester, but most on-street and lot parking is permitted for up to two hours. Pay attention to signage and be aware that ticketing, especially in the summer, is common. A great starting point is at the Manchester-by-the-Sea Museum in the Trask House on Union Street. In addition to its rotating exhibits and house tours, there are several walking-tour books available that will guide you through several of the historic neighborhoods in the village. 

Taking in the picturesque harbor is easily done from downtown Manchester, from the small park opposite the Harbor Point office building and from nearby Masconomo Park.

Walking in Manchester

I wouldn’t be doing Manchester justice if I didn’t mention several iconic businesses in town, starting with everyone’s favorite ice cream shop, Captain Dusty’s, located on Beach Street opposite the harbor. It’s an easy stop on your way to or from Singing Beach, and has employed generations of local high school students scooping cones piled sky high with frozen goodness. 

Don’t miss Manchester By The Book on Union Street, a used bookshop that you can get lost in for hours, so be forewarned! 

Across the street you’ll find Gray House Art & Antiques, where the owner’s discerning eye is evident in every item in the shop. It’s a treat to stroll through and see how antiques and contemporary goods can cleverly compliment each other. Next door, Gladstone features unusually elegant estate jewelry.  

Tucked away off of Central Street on Elm Street you’ll find Riverside Cycle, a shop that caters to bike enthusiasts and is a great resource for advice, parts and just maybe that perfect ride you’ve been dreaming of.

Manchester restaurants: casual and fun

Good restaurants in Manchester include Boo Bird on Central Street, a recent addition in town which offers great burgers and an imaginative pub menu in a lively and stylish setting. Cala’s is a stand-by in Manchester, that gets it ‘just-right’ with a lively sports bar and reasonably-priced menu with something for everyone and great pizzas. 

Speaking of pizza, you really can’t go wrong at Bravo by the Sea, a fast-casual wood-fired pizza restaurant in Harbor Point. Thin-crust deliciousness awaits.

35 Beach Street is located near the harbor and delights locals with modern American cuisine served in a casual space.