A Guide to Newburyport, MA Parks

Outdoor spaces are ingrained in Newburyport’s DNA. From riverside trails to historic commons and waterfront boardwalks, the parks in Newburyport, MA, offer residents a unique mix of natural beauty and everyday accessibility. Whether you're moving for the views, the recreation, or the community feel, these parks help define what it means to live well on the North Shore.

Situated just steps from downtown, Bartlet Mall is one of Newburyport’s most recognizable public spaces. Centered around a scenic pond, the park is framed by historic homes and bordered by High Street, making it a focal point for both everyday recreation and seasonal events.

Originally designed in part by famed landscape architect Charles Eliot in the 19th century, Bartlet Mall has retained its open, pastoral feel while accommodating modern amenities such as walking paths, benches, and open lawns for passive recreation.

This park is a popular gathering spot for families, dog walkers, and joggers. In the winter months, it also serves as a great place to sled with the kids. For residents living nearby, Bartlet Mall adds both charm and functionality to their neighborhood.

Located off High Street in the North End, Atkinson Common offers 21 acres of wooded paths, gardens, and historic monuments. This park is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil environment, with meandering trails perfect for walking, birdwatching, or quiet reflection.

Originally established in 1893, Atkinson Common features:

• A flowering garden and lily pond
• Tennis and basketball courts
• Several monuments and statues

Thanks to its well-maintained trails and shade-covered paths, this park is especially popular in warmer months for those looking to escape the summer heat. Its understated beauty and year-round accessibility make it a favorite among long-time residents.

For homebuyers seeking a peaceful setting with access to mature trees and established neighborhoods, the area around Atkinson Common offers some of the most desirable lots in the Newburyport real estate market.

If your lifestyle includes kayaking, boating, or simply enjoying the waterfront, Cashman Park is an essential part of Newburyport’s outdoor landscape. Located on Sally Snyder Way, along the banks of the Merrimack River, this active park offers amenities for a wide range of interests.

Features include:

• Public boat launch
• Tennis courts and soccer fields
• A nautical-themed playground
• Paved walking and biking paths

Cashman Park connects directly to the Clipper City Rail Trail, a popular pedestrian and bike route that winds through town and along the harbor. Sunsets over the Merrimack are a regular evening attraction, and the park draws families, fitness enthusiasts, and water-lovers alike.

As interest in homes near the waterfront continues to grow, the neighborhoods adjacent to Cashman Park remain highly desirable for buyers looking to blend convenience with natural beauty.

Although technically a Massachusetts State Park, Maudslay State Park is one of Newburyport’s most treasured outdoor destinations. Located on Curzon Mill Road, just outside the downtown core, Maudslay spans over 450 acres and includes forests, rolling meadows, stone bridges, and trails that wind alongside the Merrimack River.

This expansive park offers:

• Over 16 miles of walking and equestrian trails
• A rhododendron grove that blooms dramatically each spring
• Historic estate ruins and gardens
• Outdoor performances by Theater in the Open during the summer

Maudslay provides a more immersive natural experience for those who enjoy hiking, photography, or picnicking in a secluded setting. Despite its size and wilderness feel, it’s only a five-minute drive from Newburyport center.

For those prioritizing access to nature without sacrificing proximity to town, properties along the Turkey Hill and Curzon Mill Road corridors offer direct access to Maudslay’s trail systems and scenic views.

Situated along the edge of the Merrimack River at the base of State Street, Waterfront Park is small in size but big in community presence. This downtown green space serves as a hub for festivals, concerts, and public gatherings throughout the year.

Amenities include:

• A riverside boardwalk for walking or fishing
• Benches with sweeping views of the harbor
• Outdoor amphitheater space used for live music and events

During the summer months, Waterfront Park becomes a lively gathering place, where residents and visitors come together for Yankee Homecoming celebrations, evening concerts, and casual strolls along the river. With unobstructed views of the harbor, it’s one of the best spots in town to watch the boats drift by or enjoy a gelato from Dolce Freddo. 

For those interested in homes near Waterfront Park, the surrounding areas—Liberty Street, Federal Street, and the Tannery district—offer some of the most walkable and sought-after locations in the Newburyport real estate market, blending easy access to green space with the charm of downtown living.

For many homebuyers, access to parks and outdoor amenities is a critical factor in selecting the right neighborhood. The variety and quality of parks in Newburyport, MA, contribute directly to the city's high quality of life and strong community culture.

Whether it’s walking the Rail Trail from Cashman Park into town, attending a concert at Waterfront Park, or hiking through Maudslay on a crisp fall day, these spaces enhance daily life and provide lasting value to local homeowners.

From historic commons to active waterfronts, the park system supports everything from fitness and recreation to cultural events and quiet reflection, making it a key selling point for many of Newburyport’s most desirable properties.

If you're considering a move to Newburyport, access to beautiful parks and outdoor spaces can make all the difference in your daily lifestyle. From waterfront neighborhoods near Cashman Park to historic homes within walking distance of Bartlet Mall, the city's green spaces enhance both quality of life and property value. 

Whether you're searching for a peaceful retreat near Maudslay or a vibrant downtown location by Waterfront Park, Zaniboni Luxury Group can help you find the perfect fit. Contact Zaniboni Luxury Group today to explore homes in Newburyport and experience life where nature meets community.