This place feels like a mix between a historic seaport town and a cozy movie set. I remember sitting on a bench by the waterfront with a cup of coffee (from Plum Island Coffee Roasters, which, by the way, is amazing) just watching boats drift by. The air had that salty, slightly sweet smell you only get near the ocean. I told myself, “Yeah… I’m coming back here.”
And since then, I’ve stayed in quite a few places—from fancy boutique inns to simple budget spots—so I know which ones are worth your money and which ones, well… aren’t. Here’s my take on the best places to stay in Newburyport, Massachusetts, based on actual nights I spent there (including one where the fire alarm went off at 2 a.m., but we’ll get to that).
Why Newburyport Feels Special
You know when you go somewhere and it just has a vibe? Newburyport has that. It’s small, walkable, and feels alive but not overly crowded. I think part of the magic is how it blends old history with modern, artsy touches. You’ll see 18th-century brick buildings next to trendy cafés serving avocado toast. It works.
One thing I didn’t expect was how friendly people are here. On my first trip, I popped into a little bookstore just to browse, and I ended up chatting with the owner for half an hour. She told me about a hidden spot by the Merrimack River where locals watch the sunset. Of course, I went—and it was stunning.
For me, Newburyport isn’t just a “stopover town” on the way to somewhere else. It’s worth staying for a few days, grabbing dinner at Michael’s Harborside (their lobster roll is unreal), wandering the Clipper City Rail Trail, and just slowing down.
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My Favorite Boutique Inns Downtown
If you want to be in the middle of everything—shops, restaurants, the waterfront—downtown is where you should stay. I’ve stayed in two boutique inns here that are completely different but equally worth it.
The Garrison Inn – The Cozy, Historic Favorite
Staying at the Garrison Inn feels like sleeping inside a piece of New England history (but with Wi-Fi and fluffy pillows). My room had these high ceilings, antique-style furniture, and a giant window with a perfect view of the harbor. I’m not exaggerating when I say I woke up early just to watch the sunlight hit the water.
The staff here are on another level. One evening, I asked where to get the best seafood, and instead of just listing places, the front desk guy literally drew me a map with his personal recommendations. Thanks to him, I discovered Black Cow Tap & Grill—and their steak tips might have ruined me for all other steak tips.
TripAdvisor agrees:
“The Inn was comfortable, quiet,and beautiful . The hosts Ann and Gene had delicious breakfasts and dinners that were over the top. The Huckleberry jam and bacon. The fireplace and views. They helped you with information about the Glacier park and the history of the area and things to do. We had everything we needed and we’re treated like royalty. The dogs were adorable. We would definitely go back.” ★★★★★
Inn Street Inn – For When You Want to Be Where Everything Happens
Inn Street Inn is right in the heart of downtown. Like, you walk out the door and boom—cafés, cute shops, and live music on weekends. I stayed here last spring, and I loved how easy it was to just wander out for coffee in the morning or grab dinner without needing my car.
The rooms have a mix of modern and vintage touches—mine had exposed brick and an old fireplace that felt like it had a hundred stories. The vibe is social but not overwhelming. I actually met another guest here who told me about a sunset cruise. I booked it right away, and it turned out to be the highlight of that trip.
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Waterfront Hotels – Waking Up to the Harbor
There’s something about staying near the water in Newburyport that just slows you down. Maybe it’s the sound of the boats clinking against the docks or that salty breeze that sneaks in when you crack open the window. I’ve stayed at a couple of spots by the harbor, and honestly, I still think about those mornings when I’d sip coffee while watching sailboats drift out.
Harborfront Suites – Where the View Steals the Show
The first time I stayed at Harborfront Suites, I spent way too much time just staring out the window. Floor-to-ceiling glass, the Merrimack River right there in front of you—it’s the kind of view that makes you forget your phone exists.
One evening, I joined their rooftop sunset yoga class (totally unplanned), and I’m not even a yoga person, but wow… watching the sun sink into the horizon while stretching on a rooftop deck? 10/10, would do again.
Rooms here feel modern and bright, and I loved that they had a little espresso bar in the lobby. After my first morning latte, I ended up sitting outside watching the harbor come alive—fishermen heading out, couples walking their dogs, that whole peaceful scene you wish you could bottle up and take home.
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Mariners’ Retreat Hotel – Simple But So Relaxing
Now, if you don’t need all the fancy touches, Mariners’ Retreat Hotel is perfect. It’s not flashy, but it’s clean, welcoming, and literally steps from the water. They offer free bike rentals, which I used to explore the Clipper City Rail Trail. I even pedaled all the way to Parker River Wildlife Refuge. (Pro tip: if you’re biking there, bring water—the trail feels longer on the way back!)
I stayed in one of their smaller rooms, but it had everything I needed—a comfy bed, good Wi-Fi, and a little balcony where I watched the boats come in at dusk. One of the staff members suggested a sunset picnic on Plum Island Beach, which turned out to be one of the best nights of that trip.
Budget-Friendly & Family Stays
I get it—not everyone wants to splurge on a boutique inn or waterfront suite. I’ve done trips where I just wanted a clean, comfortable place to crash after exploring all day. Luckily, Newburyport has a few spots that don’t drain your wallet but still give you a solid experience.
Harbor Inn & Suites – Great for Families
I stayed here with a friend and her kids once, and it was exactly what we needed: spacious rooms, free breakfast (hello, fresh bagels), and parking that didn’t cost extra. The kids loved that it had a small play area, and we loved that it was close to everything—Plum Island, downtown, even the wildlife refuge.
One morning, the front desk staff told us about a little seafood shack down the road that served the best clam chowder. We went for lunch, and yeah… they weren’t lying. It was incredible.
This place doesn’t try to be fancy, but it nails the basics. If you’re traveling with family or just want a low-key stay, it’s a winner.
Newburyport Travelodge – Affordable & Practical
This one’s for the budget-conscious traveler. The Travelodge isn’t trying to impress you with décor or extras, but it’s clean, quiet, and has all the basics covered. I stayed here on a last-minute trip when everything else was booked, and honestly, I was pleasantly surprised.
The best part? It’s pet-friendly. I brought my dog on that trip, and we spent a whole afternoon running around Salisbury Beach before grabbing dinner back in town. If you’ve got wheels, this place is a good base for exploring.
Unique Stays That Surprised Me
Sometimes the best places aren’t the ones that show up first on Google. I’ve found a couple of offbeat spots in Newburyport that gave me some of my favorite memories. These aren’t your typical hotels—they’re the kind of stays where you wake up and feel like you’re living in someone’s cool Pinterest board.
The Converted Barn – Rustic, Cozy, and Kinda Magical
I’ll be honest, I didn’t plan to stay here. I booked it last minute because everything else was full. But wow… what a happy accident. This barn-turned-guesthouse was easily one of the most memorable places I’ve stayed in Newburyport.
Picture this: exposed wooden beams, a tiny loft bedroom you have to climb a ladder to reach, and a patio where I drank my coffee while watching deer in the distance. One night, it rained and I could hear the drops hitting the roof—it was oddly relaxing, like a free spa soundtrack.
The owner left a little basket of fresh muffins from a local bakery (I’m still dreaming about those blueberry ones). If you’re traveling as a couple or just want something unique, this place is a win. It feels like you’re tucked away in the countryside but still only 10 minutes from downtown.
Riverside Guesthouse – Sunset Heaven
If you want killer views of the Merrimack River, this is it. I stayed at Riverside Guesthouse in early fall, and I spent almost every evening on the wraparound porch, just watching the colors change on the water. There’s this peaceful vibe—you don’t even realize how stressed you were until you sit there and do… nothing.
Oh, and they have kayaks you can borrow. I took one out one morning just as the fog was lifting off the river, and it felt like I was in a painting. Breakfast here is simple but good—farm eggs, local jam, that kind of thing.
Insider Tips for Picking a Place
After a few trips, I’ve learned a thing or two about booking the right spot in Newburyport.
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Book early if you’re visiting in summer. Seriously. I once tried booking in July and ended up 20 minutes away because everything was full. Lesson learned.
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Fall is underrated. The foliage around Parker River Wildlife Refuge is breathtaking, and places aren’t as crowded.
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Downtown for convenience, Plum Island for views. If you want to walk everywhere, downtown inns are perfect. But if you’re after sunsets and beaches, pick something near Plum Island.
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Ask locals. I always chat with hotel staff or café baristas—they know the hidden gems. That’s how I found a tiny seafood shack that served the best clam chowder I’ve ever had.
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My 3-Day Newburyport Itinerary (Steal It)
If you’re planning to stay for a weekend, here’s exactly how I’d do it:
Day 1:
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Check in to your inn and take a slow walk through Market Square.
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Grab dinner at Brine Oyster Bar (their oyster selection is unreal).
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Evening stroll along the boardwalk.
Day 2:
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Watch sunrise at Plum Island Beach (yes, it’s worth waking up early).
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Bike the Clipper City Rail Trail or visit the Custom House Maritime Museum.
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End with a sunset harbor cruise—trust me, it’s magical.
Day 3:
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Lazy breakfast at Buttermilk Baking Company (get the croissant).
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Visit Parker River Wildlife Refuge.
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Lunch at Michael’s Harborside before heading home.
(I’ve made this into a Free Downloadable PDF—it’s literally the itinerary I follow every time I go.)
What Real Travelers Are Saying (TripAdvisor Highlights)
Before I booked anything the first time I came to Newburyport, I went down the TripAdvisor rabbit hole—and honestly, it helped. Here are a few reviews that match exactly what I experienced:
Garrison Inn – 4.8★
A small B&B of delightful charm and comfort. Anne-Marie and Jean are remarkable hosts – friendly, caring and attentive. Super clean, very quiet and with Chef Jean providing excellent fare, this is our go-to in the area. Dog privileges are a bonus. Highly recommended..”
→ TripAdvisor: Garrison Inn
Harbor Inn & Suites – 4.5★
“Fine wine this place is great!
I would give 10 stars if I could. This place is great don’t let these snobbish pretentious people deter you from staying here. Comfy beds and instead of a couch they have a second side bed which is also comfortable. Fridge/freezer, microwave, safe and flat screen tv, everything you need. I’ve stayed in worse casino hotels in Vegas. This place is like a cheap wine that hits way above its price point. We definitely recommend this place.”
Riverside Guesthouse – 4.9★
“We had a lovely stay here. Fadill arranged a 1 day trek for us, as well as transfers to and from Medan airport and porters to and from vehicle drop off point (around 10 minute walk to guesthouse). The trek by far exceeded our expectations, with us seeing around 7 orangutans (some with babies), one of which was a huge male. Everything provided and arranged by Fadill was efficient and reliable. Guesthouse is basic, with cold water and no ac, but you are in the jungle and for us it added to the authenticity of our stay.”
FAQs – Honest Answers from Someone Who’s Actually Been
1. When’s the best time to visit Newburyport?
I’d say May through early October is golden. Summer is vibrant but busy. Fall is quieter and stunningly beautiful if you like foliage.
2. Is it walkable?
Downtown? Totally. You can walk to cafés, the waterfront, and shops. Plum Island is a drive or bike ride, but worth it.
3. Is it good for couples?
Yes—some of my most peaceful moments were here with my partner. Stay at the Riverside Guesthouse or Garrison Inn for max romance.
4. Can I bring my dog?
Yup! I stayed at the Travelodge with my pup. Some inns might allow pets if you ask in advance, but always double-check.
5. Do I need a car?
It helps. If you’re staying in downtown and don’t plan to explore far, you can get by without it. But if you want to visit Plum Island or nearby trails, you’ll want wheels.
Final Thoughts
If I had to sum up Newburyport in one word? Comforting. It’s not loud or flashy. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, breathe deeper, and remember how good small things can be—like fresh coffee, quiet porches, and warm sun on your face near the harbor.
No matter your vibe—romantic getaway, solo reset, family trip—there’s a place here that’ll feel just right. I’ve stayed in more spots than I can count, and each one had something memorable about it. Hopefully, this guide gives you a little clarity on where to stay. And maybe, like me, you’ll leave already planning your next visit.
