Beverly, MA

About the City
Geography
Climate and Weather
Landmarks and Attractions
Transport
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Museums
Sport and Sports Legends
Universities and Educational Institutions
Medical Institutions and Healthcare

Beverly is a historic coastal city on Massachusetts' North Shore. Known as the "Birthplace of America's Navy," it offers beautiful beaches, a vibrant arts scene, and a charming downtown.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The city's official name is Beverly, and it is a city in Essex County, Massachusetts, United States . It is a prominent residential and resort community on the North Shore and is considered a suburb of Boston . The region is famous for its historic coastal towns, beautiful landscapes, and its significant role in early American history.

Historical Names and Nicknames

Historical Name: Originally part of Salem, the town was incorporated in 1668 and named "Beverley" after Beverley, a town in the East Riding of Yorkshire, England .
"Birthplace of America's Navy": Beverly proudly claims this nickname. It originates from the 1775 outfitting and first voyage of the schooner USS Hannah, the first vessel commissioned for the U.S. military, which sailed from Beverly Harbor .
"Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution": This nickname stems from the establishment of the first successfully operated cotton mill in the United States here in 1788 .

Date of Foundation and Age

First Settled: 1626 by Roger Conant and his group, as part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony .
Incorporated as a Town: 1668, when it was officially separated from Salem .
Incorporated as a City: 1894 .
Age: Founded in 1626, Beverly is 398 years old (as of 2024).

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Beverly is located on the North Shore of Massachusetts Bay . Its geographic coordinates are 42°33′30″N 70°52′48″W (42.5584° N, 70.8804° W) . The city is situated opposite the historic city of Salem, from which it is separated by the Danvers River and Beverly Harbor . The elevation of the city's center is approximately 30-36 feet (11 meters) above sea level . The landscape is typical glacial topography with low, rocky hills .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Residential Community: Primarily a suburb of Boston with a strong sense of local community .
Tourist and Resort Destination: Known for its scenic coastline, public beaches, and historic summer homes .
Historic and Cultural Center: The city is home to a historic downtown, the Beverly Arts District, and The Cabot, a renowned performing arts venue .
Educational Hub: Beverly hosts Endicott College and Montserrat College of Art .

Population and Demographics

Population: The population was 42,670 at the time of the 2020 United States Census . It is classified as a small to mid-sized city.

City's "Calling Card" (Brief)

Beverly is a quintessential New England coastal city where rich colonial history meets a vibrant modern community. Visitors and residents alike are drawn to its beautiful beaches, such as those at Lynch Park, its walkable downtown with a thriving arts district, and its proud legacy as the "Birthplace of America's Navy," all while being just a short train ride from Boston.

Geography

Water Bodies and Coastline

Beverly is defined by its extensive coastline and waterfront .

Massachusetts Bay: The city's southern border lies along this bay, providing access to the Atlantic Ocean.
Beverly Harbor and the Danvers River: From Woodbury Point westward lies Beverly Harbor at the mouth of the Danvers River, which separates Beverly from its neighbor, Salem .
Bass River: This river flows through the city and empties into the Danvers River .
Wenham Lake: A large portion of this lake lies within the city and serves as a notable geographic feature .
Islands: The city includes Great Misery Island and Little Misery Island .

Beaches and Coastline

Beverly is home to several public beaches, making it a popular summer destination .

Lynch Park: The city's principal public park features a beautiful beach and the site of President William Howard Taft's summer "White House" .
Cove Park: A popular local beach and park area .
Dane Street Beach: One of the city's well-known beaches.
In total, Beverly has five public beaches along its waterfront, offering opportunities for swimming, boating, and relaxation .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Beverly has a humid subtropical climate ("Cfa"), though some sources classify it as humid continental given its location in New England . It is characterized by warm, sometimes humid summers and cold winters.

Average Temperatures

Based on data from a nearby weather station, Beverly's climate features a wide range of seasonal temperatures .

Coldest Month: January, with average daily maximums around 36.6°F (2.6°C) and minimums around 21.1°F (-6.1°C).
Warmest Month: July, with average daily maximums around 80.1°F (26.7°C) and minimums around 64.0°F (17.8°C).
Record High: 98°F (36.7°C), recorded on July 4, 2002, and July 25, 2022 .
Record Low: -13°F (-25.0°C), recorded on February 4, 2023 .

Precipitation

Average Annual Rainfall: Approximately 40-45 inches .

Best Time to Visit

The most pleasant time to visit Beverly is from late spring through early fall.

Summer (June-August): Warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the beaches, parks, and waterfront activities.
Fall (September-October): The weather is crisp and cool, with spectacular fall foliage making it ideal for scenic drives and walks.

Landmarks and Attractions

The Cabot

Originally opened in the 1920s, The Cabot is one of only about 250 surviving movie palaces from that era . After being saved from closure and undergoing extensive renovations, it has been transformed into a thriving nonprofit performing arts center. It hosts concerts, films, and community events, drawing top-name performers and serving as a cultural cornerstone for the North Shore.

Balch House

Believed to be one of the oldest surviving wooden-frame houses in the United States. Built around 1679 according to dendrochronological testing, it stands as a testament to Beverly's first-generation English settlers .

Lynch Park

This is Beverly's principal oceanfront park, famous for its formal Italian Garden and public beach . The park holds particular historical significance as the site of President William Howard Taft's summer residence, the "White House," in 1909 and 1910 .

Beverly Historical Society & Cabot House

The society owns a large colonial house that houses a valuable historical collection detailing the city's rich past .

Transport

Major Highways

Several major routes serve Beverly, providing excellent road connectivity .

Route 128: The chief circumferential highway of the Boston area, crossing Beverly from east to west and connecting to I-95 and U.S. Route 1.
Route 1A: Passes through Beverly from south to north, running along the main streets in downtown Beverly.
State Routes: Beverly is the terminus for several state routes, including 22, 62, 97, and 127.

Rail Service

Beverly is well-served by the MBTA Commuter Rail .

Newburyport/Rockport Line: Beverly is a key point on this line, which splits within the city. This provides direct service to Boston's North Station.
Stations: There are five stations in the city: Beverly Depot (the main downtown station), North Beverly, Montserrat, Prides Crossing, and Beverly Farms.

Airports

Beverly Municipal Airport: A local, general aviation airport located within the city .
Logan International Airport (BOS): The nearest major airport for national and international flights, located in Boston .

Public Buses

MBTA Bus: Route 451 serves the city, connecting the North Beverly station to downtown Beverly and Salem .
Beverly Shoppers Shuttle: A local bus route serving downtown and western Beverly .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Beverly's dining scene reflects its coastal New England location, offering fresh seafood and innovative farm-to-table experiences alongside modern interpretations of global cuisine.

Fried Clams (Fried Clams)

Just a short drive from Beverly in the town of Essex, you'll find the birthplace of one of New England's most iconic dishes . Fried clams are a delicious appetizer made with whole soft-shell clams dipped in milk and corn flour, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Regularly served at clam shacks throughout the region, they offer a fuller flavor than regular clams and are a must-try for any seafood lover . Woodman's of Essex, located nearby, is famously credited with inventing this dish .

Modern Latin Cuisine (Que Mas)

Beverly is also home to contemporary culinary innovation. Que Mas is a modern Latin cuisine restaurant opened in 2024 by emerging chef Alex Pineda . Raised in a Colombian-Irish household and influenced by his mother, famed Boston chef Lydia Shire, Pineda's menu draws inspiration from various Latin American countries, blending diverse flavors into a unique dining experience. The restaurant, located in Beverly, represents his first solo venture and offers a vibrant taste of modern Latin food .

Farm-to-Table Dining (Superfine Food)

For a taste of local and seasonal ingredients, Superfine Food offers a farm-to-table experience that is a favorite among locals and visitors . Their menu features everything from wood-fired pizzas to locally-sourced salads, and it receives outstanding reviews for its freshness and creativity .

Where to Eat Local Seafood

Beverly's coastal location means excellent seafood is never far away. The Beverly Depot Restaurant, located in a historic railroad depot, is known for its succulent lobster and seafood chowder . For a more tropical vibe, Bonefish Harry's is famous for its Tiki atmosphere .

Local Cafes and Coffee Shops

Beverly's cafe culture offers unique spots to relax and refuel. Atomic Cafe is a go-to for locally roasted coffee beans and a cozy ambiance . For a proper tea and treat experience, Jolie Tea is an excellent choice . Those with a sweet tooth should visit Wild Horse Cafe, known for its warm atmosphere and popular cinnamon rolls .

Annual Food-Centric Events

The Beverly Farmers' Market is a highlight from summer through fall, providing an excellent place to pick up fresh produce and handmade goods, supporting local vendors and offering a real taste of the community .

Museums

Historic Museums and Landmarks

Beverly is rich in history, with several landmarks that offer a glimpse into America's past.

Historic Beverly's headquarters at the John Cabot House (John Cabot House) : This notable landmark dates back to 1781 and serves as an informative museum, offering nationally-renowned exhibitions that explore a range of historical stories .
The Balch House (Balch House) : Considered one of the oldest wood-frame houses in the United States, this historic home offers a glimpse into 17th-century colonial life. On certain days, the house hosts reenactments and educational programs .

Art Galleries and the Beverly Arts District

Beverly’s downtown, particularly along Cabot Street, is a designated Cultural District where art and history take center stage .

Montserrat College of Art (Montserrat College of Art) : This college contributes to the city's vibrant arts scene, with its presence felt throughout the downtown area .
Arabella Gallery (Arabella Gallery) : Located in the heart of Pickering Wharf, this gallery represents some of New England's finest artists and artisans .
Porter Mill Studios (Porter Mill Studios) : This studio is a collective of various artists, offering everything from paintings to ceramics. Shopping here supports local businesses and offers a chance to find truly unique, handcrafted items .
Wicked Art Bar - Paint & Sip Studio (Wicked Art Bar) : For a hands-on artistic experience, this studio offers a fun and social environment to create your own art .

Museums and Galleries Nearby

The wider North of Boston region offers additional world-class museums.

Peabody Essex Museum (Peabody Essex Museum) : Located in nearby Salem, this museum exhibits connections between art, architecture, and culture, and is a major cultural attraction in the area .

Sport and Sports Legends

College Athletics: Endicott College Gulls

Endicott College, a private institution founded in 1939, is a key part of Beverly's identity and its athletic teams, known as the Gulls, compete in NCAA Division III as members of the Commonwealth Coast Conference . The campus itself features two beaches popular with students and staff, as well as various recreational facilities .

High School Sports and Local Athletes

Local high schools are the heart of community sports. At Bishop Fenwick High School, senior student-athlete Caitlyn Boyle made headlines in early 2026 by scoring her 1,000th career point in a basketball game on Senior Night . A former student at The Saints Academy in Beverly, Boyle is also a member of the National Honor Society and plays for the school's volleyball team, embodying the spirit of local athletic achievement .

Sports in the Region

While Beverly itself may not have major professional sports stadiums, its location on the North Shore means it is just a short drive from Boston, home to world-famous teams and venues. Locals are passionate fans of the Boston Red Sox (MLB) , New England Patriots (NFL) , Boston Celtics (NBA) , and Boston Bruins (NHL) .

Universities and Educational Institutions

Endicott College

Endicott College is the most prominent higher education institution in Beverly. Founded in 1939, this private college is located on Massachusetts' North Shore, often referred to as the "Gold Coast," about 20 miles north of Boston .

Overview: Endicott offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. It has around 4,200 students, including approximately 3,000 undergraduates. The college is known for its student-centered approach and its beautiful seaside campus, which includes two beaches .
Unique Academic Model: Endicott is distinguished by its requirement for every student, in every major, to complete annual internships. This focus on applied learning ensures that graduates leave with not only a respected degree but also significant practical experience. The Internship & Career Center provides individual career counseling, job boards, and an alumni mentor program .
Campus and Facilities: The expansive oceanfront campus has seen significant recent investment, including the state-of-the-art Cummings School of Nursing & Health Sciences, a makerspace for STEM students, and multiple theaters for visual and performing arts students. The average class size is just 16.5 students .
Recent Developments: In 2023, the college launched the Institute for Applied Behavioral Science, and its ABA program is recognized among the top 20 globally. The college also hosts "Spark Tank," its version of Shark Tank, where student entrepreneurs compete for funding .

Montserrat College of Art

Montserrat College of Art is another key educational institution located in Beverly. It is a private art college that plays a vital role in the city's cultural district, contributing to the vibrant arts scene along Cabot Street with its contemporary galleries and the creative influence of its students and faculty .

Primary and Secondary Education

Beverly is served by its own public school system. For private education, the city is home to institutions like The Saints Academy and Bishop Fenwick High School in nearby Peabody, which serves students from Beverly and the surrounding area .

Medical Institutions and Healthcare

Beverly Hospital

Beverly Hospital (Beverly Hospital) , located at 85 Herrick Street, is the primary healthcare facility in the city .

Trauma Center: It is a designated Level III Adult Trauma Center, verified by the American College of Surgeons and approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. This designation means it provides prompt assessment, resuscitation, surgery, and stabilization for injured patients .
Pediatric Care: Beverly Hospital is a member of the Boston Children's Hospital Community of Care, a collaboration of more than 15 years. This partnership brings best-in-class pediatric care to North Shore families, including a Pediatric Emergency Department, a special care nursery, and an inpatient unit .