Summer in the Greater Merrimack Valley, MA

When summer arrives in the Greater Merrimack Valley, long days and warm nights bring the region to life. It’s the perfect season to explore the outdoors, soak up history, enjoy live music and festivals, or browse vibrant shops and galleries. From Lowell and Concord, MA to more than 20 surrounding towns and villages, you’ll discover a dynamic mix of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences. Whether you’re paddling the Concord River, strolling historic battlefields in Lexington, MA, dancing in the streets at a music festival, or savoring ice cream after a summer hike—this welcoming region offers something for every kind of traveler.

Seasonal Adventures, Cultural Events and Shopping

Summer in the Greater Merrimack Valley is the season to get outside, celebrate local culture, and experience the region’s rich blend of history and creativity. Whether you’re hiking trails, paddling scenic rivers, or perusing downtown shops, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the sunshine.

Explore on Foot: Tours That Bring History to Life

Lowell National Historical Park Walking Tours: Join the National Park Service for a guided walk through Lowell’s historic mill district. Learn how water-powered textile factories changed the world, hear the stories of the mill girls and immigrant laborers, and follow the city's famous canal system on foot. Tours vary daily—check the Visitors Center at 246 Market Street for times and themes.
Lexington Battle Green Walking Tour: Hop aboard a classic red trolley for a 90-minute narrated ride through key Revolutionary War sites across Lexington and Concord. Stops include the Hancock-Clarke House, Minute Man National Historical Park, and the iconic North Bridge - perfect for those who want to see more with ease.
Lexington Historical Society House Tours: Dive deeper into Lexington’s past with visits to Buckman Tavern, Munroe Tavern, and the Hancock-Clarke House - each one filled with original artifacts and stories that bring the colonial era to life.
North Bridge Ranger Tours in Concord: Meet National Park Service rangers at the North Bridge for free walking tours and talks exploring the “shot heard ‘round the world,” and how this peaceful meadow became a flashpoint of revolution.

Summer Kayaks at the North Bridge in Lexington, MA - Photo Credit Greater Merrimack Valley

Minuteman Statue Summer View in Lexington, MA - Photo Credit Greater Merrimack Valley

Experience a Music Revolution

Lowell Folk Festival: Held annually in late July, this three-day celebration is the longest-running free folk festival in the U.S. Enjoy global music performances, street dancing, craft demonstrations, and food vendors from around the world—all set in Lowell’s walkable downtown.
Lowell Summer Music Series: Running June through September, this beloved concert series brings major artists to the stage at Boarding House Park. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy performances ranging from rock and reggae to jazz and blues under the stars.

Stroll, Shop, and Soak in Local Flavor

Shopping Districts: Downtown Concord, Lexington, and Lowell are perfect for leisurely browsing. Pick up handcrafted goods, books, gifts, and locally made specialties. Don’t miss Western Avenue Studios in Lowell - home to over 300 artists and open to the public on the first Saturday of each month.
Brush Art Gallery and Studios: Located along the canal in Lowell, this vibrant art space showcases exhibitions and hosts working artists you can meet on-site. It’s a great place to pick up original works and support local creatives.

Shopping in Lexington, MA - Greater Merrimack Valley

Taste the Season

Wilson Farm in Lexington, MA: Family-run since 1884, Wilson Farm offers fresh produce, flowers, and gourmet prepared foods daily. Enjoy bakery treats, deli items, and summer favorites like corn, tomatoes, and berries—perfect for a picnic or backyard dinner.
Verrill Farm in Concord, MA: Just a short drive away, Verrill Farm offers its own seasonal bounty along with events like cooking demos, farm tours, and hayrides. Don’t miss the kitchen and bakery’s rotating menu of soups, salads, entrees, and fruit pies.

You’ll find it all here in Greater Merrimack Valley. To make your own history and your perfect winter adventure here in Greater Merrimack Valley, visit merrimackvalley.org for more information.