Lowell, Massachusetts was the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution in the United States. Located on the Merrimack River, the mill town quickly became one of the nation's largest textile centers, especially with an influx of Irish immigrants in the 1800's. Thus Lowell is a city flourishing with historical sites, museums, and tours. However this list will provide both historical and non-historical tourist attractions in Lowell, MA, from the eyes of someone who grew up there!
1. Grab a Boott Mill Breakfast Sandwich at Arthur's Diner
Arthur's Diner is one of those places that you would probably pass by thinking its closed and abandoned. But inside, the grills are hot and the best breakfast sandwich in town is waiting for you. The "Boott Mill" is a breakfast sandwich with eggs, home fries, cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage, ham, corned beef, OR ALL FOUR, stacked between two halves of a bulky roll. The sandwich can be single, double, triple, or quadruple stacked with any combination of meats that your little heart desires. It is a true Lowellian delicacy and if you are visiting you must try this delicious sandwich!
2. Shop Around at Western Avenue Studios or Mill No. 5
Lowell is full of artists and these are two places where you can see their work on display! Both venues are located in old, repurposed mill buildings so the atmosphere is already very unique. Western Avenue Studios features a variety of artistry from jewelry, photography, paintings, sculptures, and more throughout its five story mill space. Mill No. 5, on the other hand, is home to more vintage shops. There also is a yoga studio, coffee shop, and movie theater inside the mill!
3. Window shop in downtown
Grab a cup of joe at a local coffee shop and take a stroll through downtown! The cobblestone streets and the architecture are sights in themselves, and the downtown has tons of ethnic shops and restaurants to explore. Check out the historical landmarks such as "The Worker,"or the Boston & Maine Steam Locomotive, which is not a functioning train, but instead a small museum!
4. Take a Trolley Ride!
What better way to get around the city the by trolley?! This streetcar was the main mode of transportation for Lowellians during the 1800's and the rails are still operating today. You can hop on and off the trolley as you please or take the full Mill & Trolley Tour, a 75 minute tour to learn about the city's past and present.
5. Visit Lowell National Historical Park
Even if you aren't a history buff, a trip to the Visitor's Center on Market Street is a must. A quick orientation video provides an overview of Lowell's essential part in the Industrial Revolution. Then ring the bell on a trolley replica, test your skills at weaving on the loom, and get your National Park Passport stamped!
6. Take in Some More Lowell History
As I mentioned before, Lowell was home to the Industrial Revolution in the United States, thus there are a lot of historical sites to visit regarding the success of the mill town. However, Lowell is also home to a few big names in literature and art as well. Here are the most popular attractions in Lowell:
Boott Cotton Mills: This former textile mill is home to a museum that showcases the importance of Lowell's mills throughout the Industrial Revolution. Check out the room of looms and see if you would have had what it takes to work in the cotton mill during the 1800's! The Mills are also home to various apartments and offices.
Canal Tour: A canal tour is such a fun and unique way to see the city! Learn about the people who built the canals, operated the locks and gates, and see who "works the water" today.
New England Quilt Museum: Founded in 1987, the Quilt Museum is the second-oldest quilt museum in the U.S. and it's the only institute in the Northeast solely dedicated to the art and craft of quilting.
National Street Car Museum: Learn about the history of the trolley system in Lowell, hop on a free ride, and get your very own trolley whistle!
Jack Kerouac Park/Grave: Jack Kerouac wrote many classic American novels, including "On the Road," which helped to lead the Beat movement in the United States
Whistler House: James Whistler was an American Artist who supported the idea of "art for art's sake."
7. Have a picnic on the Boulevard
Away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, you can find peace and quiet on the Merrimack River. Both sides of the river have walking paths, but if you cross the river you will find a longer trail, a small beach, and a performance stage! If you are lucky, maybe there will be a festival there when you are visiting! You can also get out on the water by renting a kayak from the Umass Lowell Kayak Center. If you are feeling a little more adventurous, you can even white water raft down the Concord River. Then cool off with an ice cream from Heritage Farm, which is right across the street.
8. Catch a Game at LeLacheur Park
The city is home to the Lowell Spinners, the Class A-Affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Many famous Red Sox players started off in Lowell, including Kevin Youkilis, Jonathan Papelbon, and Jacoby Ellsbury, just to name a few. The Lowell Spinners host themed nights, have in-between inning games, and even have a kid's area to keep the young ones distracted for a few innings! Make sure to check out the Gator Pit for the best food in the ballpark.
9. Check out an outdoor show during the Lowell Summer Music Series
Lowell does not just host one weekend of music (the Lowell Folk Festival, see below) but actually puts on weekly outdoor performances at Boarding House Park! The Lowell Summer Music Series has grown every year, not only because they bring in talented groups, but also because of the great atmosphere provided by listening to live music outside! There are concessions available at the event, but you can also bring your own food and drink as well!
Pro Tip: There are no bathrooms at Boarding House Park, the closest one is in the John Street Garage, which is right across the street.
10. Enjoy a Rebel Burger and a pint at the Old Court
The Old Court Irish Pub is located right in historic downtown and it's a great spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy! The pub serves traditional Irish classics, such as fish and chips, along with American cuisine. My recommendation is the Rebel Burger, which stacks corned beef and a fried egg on top of its patty. It was even voted one of the Best Burgers in Massachusetts but thrillist.com in 2015! After dinner head on upstairs for a night of music, dancing, and drafts!
Seasonal Bonus:
No matter what season you are visiting Lowell, there is always an event going on!
11. Lowell Folk Festival
Easily the best weekend of the year in Lowell. The Folk Festival takes place every year on the last weekend in July, and is completely FREE to attend! The event, which is run entirely on donations, is in its 34th year of celebrating cultural music and food from around the globe. There are five performance stages located throughout downtown so make sure to hit them all, as each stage offers something unique. The festival starts on Friday night at Boarding House Park with a parade beginning at 6 PM, and continues all weekend long.
IMO: The best cultural food is located at Boarding House Park (Filipino and Greek Tents), while the best carnival food is located on the adjacent John Street (fried dough & fried oreos).
Pro Tip Music: Boarding House Park is the main stage and always fills up. If you have a large group you want to reserve lawn space for, drop off chairs and blankets before 8 AM. Also make sure you get over to the Dutton Street Stage at some point and DANCE!
Pro Tip Food: The Filipino Food Tent always has a massive line, because it's amazing and totally worth it! But get food from them earlier in the day, for lunch instead of dinner.
12. City of Lights Parade
Christmastime in the city is something that can't be beat, especially in Lowell. The City of Lights Parade occurs the weekend after Thanksgiving and officially helps to switch the city over to Christmas-mode! The parade ends at JFK plaza where a lighting ceremony takes place to set City Hall aglow with Christmas decorations. Although a traditional Christmas tree is not on display during the parade, a different type of tree illuminates during the countdown: Lowell's smokestack tree.
13: Lowell Winterfest
Another classic event in Lowell is the Winterfest, which takes place every January! The Winterfest is a great way for people to get outside and enjoy some winter activities for the entire family! The weekend features live music, food vendors, winter activities, local artist booths, and the beloved soup competition! There are plenty of events for the kids, including ice skating, as well as activities for the adults that go all night long. Cozy up in the tent in JFK plaza and dance the night away to local musicians!
Flashback: When I was growing up the highlight of the Winterfest was a human dog sled race, where teams of adults would attach themselves to a harness and sled and race to the finish line of a snowy track. The Winterfest no longer has these races, but I hope they make a comeback sometime soon!
Pro Tip: If you plan to attend the soup competition, know that the line is out the door! Get there early so you don't have to be waiting outside in the cold.
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