Julie & David
Things To Do
DO: Explore Marblehead!
Start at the Marblehead Museum and get lost downtown through the winding streets with colorful historically preserved homes. Be sure to check out some of our favorite spots: - Fort Sewall - Crocker Park - Castle Rock - Deveraux Beach - Brown's Island - The Lighthouse - Abbot Hall (home of the Spirit of '76 painting)
EAT/DRINK: Maddie's Sail Loft
We love Maddie's so much that when Bob & Joanne came to visit in October we went for dinner two nights in a row! Go "Topside" for the best seafood and hospitality in town (David's favorite is the New England Haddock, Julie's is the grilled swordfish!) Head downstairs for some stiff cocktails (including it's famous Thunderdome) and see why Maddie's always ranks high on the "Best Sailor's Bars" lists.
EAT/DRINK: The Barnacle
Located right on the water (be careful, if you sit outside you might get splashed by a wave), the Barnacle is the oldest family owned restaurant in Marblehead. Chances are you'll find cousin Davey here enjoying some steamers and a bloody Mary - a few of our favorites as well! If fried seafood is your thing, this is the best in town.
EAT: Java Sun Coffee
Our go-to coffee spot downtown, Java Sun also has delicious small bites for a quick and casual breakfast. We especially love the goat cheese frittata and blueberry muffins - all made from scratch by the longtime owner, Cheryl! They also carry the infamous Bagel World Bagels from Salem so save yourself a trip and stop by Java Sun!
EAT: The Muffin Shop
Nestled right in Old Town, the Muffin Shop is a long time Regan family favorite. Fun fact: it was also a favorite of Adam Sandler and family when they were filming Grown Ups in Marblehead. We would see them there often and I loved how comfy they felt in our town! The muffins, breakfast & lunch options here are awesome....but the LOBSTER ROLLS are our favorite!! Also see "DO: Little Harbor Lobster Company" - for the rival "best lobster roll in town"
EAT: The Driftwood
An adorable (cash-only) downtown nook locals love for their classic breakfast fare & lunch, plus signature fried dough. No frills, come as you are, and enjoy a "home-cooked" meal!
EAT: Little Harbor Lobster Company
Carrying on a tradition of nearly 100 years, Little Harbor Lobster Company serves Marblehead and the surrounding north shore community with the freshest seafood, sourced directly from local fisherman! A strong contender for the "best lobster roll in town" - so after you have one from the Muffin Shop come here and decide for yourself!
DO: Explore Salem!
From 1600's historic "witch" trial museums, old graveyards, beautiful waterfront, to the Peabody Essex Museum & the House of Seven Gables, Salem has a lot to explore! Stop by Salem Beer Works, the brewery where Julie used to work in high school, for a local craft brew and lunch!
DO: Take the Salem Ferry to Boston!
If you're staying in downtown Salem, take the ferry to Boston in just about 40 mins! The adventure begins at Long Wharf, just steps from the New England Aquarium, the North End, Faneuil Hall and other popular Boston landmarks.
DO: Explore Boston!
Marblehead is only 15 miles north of Boston and is accessible by car, train, subway (MBTA) or ferry! We love the Italian food in the North End, walking through the park and the Charles River Esplanade, Newbury Street, the Seaport, Fenway Park and of course BOSTON COLLEGE!
DO: Get Active at Town Barre
Two of Julie's best high school friends, Sarah and Cara, are instructors at Town Barre so make sure to look for their class schedules! Town Barre is a fitness studio in Marblehead with daily classes specializing in barre. Barre is a low impact, high intensity workout that targets every muscle group in the body and is safe for all ages and fitness levels.
EAT: The Landing
Our vote for best clam chowder in Marblehead is at the Landing! You can sit harborside and enjoy a dark and stormy while taking in the view. We are doing brunch here on Monday morning (Memorial Day!) after the wedding so if you cant make it - be sure to stop by before!!