Cape Ann Lanes puts a modern twist on the good old-fashioned sport of bowling. Cosmic lights, arcades, and pizza create a fun-filled atmosphere. Bring the family or a date and you’re sure to have a good time. » 53 Gloucester Ave., Gloucester, 978-283-9753, funbowling.com.
Reader’s Choice: Cape Ann Lanes, 53 Gloucester Ave., Gloucester, 978-283-9753, funbowling.com
Malt and hop lovers who have enjoyed the evolution of Mercury Brewing in Ipswich will be delighted with a brand-new 36,000–square-foot facility in downtown Ipswich that will finally house a pub. In the meantime, pick up some of the best craft-brewed ales in New England from Mercury. We suggest starting off with the popular Ipswich Original Ale and then savoring the rich, silkiness of the Ipswich Oatmeal Stout.
» 23 Hayward St., Ipswich, 978-356-3359, mercurybrewing.com.
Reader’s Choice: Haverhill Brewery,
100 Washington St., Haverhill, 978-374-1117, tapbrewpub.com
Turner Hill is the North Shore’s slice of golf heaven. The Hurdzan/Fry championship course offers the ideal combination of challenge and natural beauty, making it the must-play course north of Boston.
» 3 Manor House Ln., Ipswich, 978-356-7070, turnerhill.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Renaissance Golf Club, 377 Kenoza St., Haverhill, 978-556-0900, renaissancegolfclub.com
How many movie theaters can you visit in one trip? If 20 is plenty, then head over to Loews at the Loop. With a film festival every night, it’s like Sundance in the suburbs. Add in the shops and restaurants all located within the complex, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
» 90 Pleasant Valley St., Methuen, 978-738-8942, attheloop.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Cinema Salem, One East India Square, Beverly, 978-744-1400, cinemasalem.com
It was a tough year for performing arts venues (North Shore Music Theatre, we’ll miss you). However, the show must go on and for the past 30 years, it been doing that and much more at the Merrimack Repertory Theatre. Director Charles Towers, through memorable productions, a busy calendar, education programs, and local partnerships, has helped to make this theatre the top stage on the North Shore.
» 50 E. Merrimack St., Lowell, , 978-452-0954, merrimackrep.org.
Reader’s Choice:
Firehouse Center for the Arts, Market Square, Newburyport, 978-499-9931, firehouse.org
If you’re a musician on the North Shore or just someone who loves great live music, The Grog should top your list. From blues to soul to old fashioned rock-and-roll, including jam sessions, open mic nights, and special guests, this downstairs stage is a not only a proving ground for area musicians, but also the number-one spot to let down your hair and rock out.
» 13 Middle St., Newburyport, 978-465-8008, thegrog.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Finch Coffee House, 26 Pleasant St., Newburyport, finchcoffeehouse.com
Curator and Director Elissa Della-Piana inspires artists of all ages at her gallery in Wenham. Whether you are an artist searching for space to showcase your work or an art lover looking to discover new talent, you’ll find inspiration at Gallery Della-Piana.
» 153 R Main St., Wenham, 978-468-1944, gallerydellapiana.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Lepore Fine Arts, Horton’s Yard, 58 Merrimac St., Newburyport, 978-462-1663, leporefinearts.com
The semi-private, 18-hole Gannon Municipal Golf Course in Lynn has been challenging North Shore golfers for about eight decades. This par-70 track is in fabulous condition, and the historic clubhouse adds elements of charm and nostalgia to the course.
» 60 Great Wood Rd., Lynn, 781-592-8238, gannongolfclub.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Gannon Municipal Golf Course, 60 Great Woods Rd., Lynn, 781-592-8238, gannongolfclub.com
Finding an authentic Irish pub on the North Shore is as unexpected as discovering a leprechaun in your lunch box. But once you realize it’s true, it’s just as fun. At The Peddler’s Daughter, you’ll find great food, a fun atmosphere, and, naturally, an endless supply of brewski. Also be sure to check out the regular schedule of live music which includes DJs
and Irish bands.
» 45 Wingate St., Haverhill, 978-372-9555, thepeddlersdaughter.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Kitty O’Sheas Irish Pub, 298 Cabot St., Beverly, 978-927-0300, northshoreonline.com/kittyosheaspub
Looking for a cozy spot to canoodle on a couch and enjoy a sensual city vibe, awesome music, and hot events outside of Boston? Sizzling nights are in store at Glory, Andover’s lively lounge which regularly plays host to some of the hottest events and coolest cats around. Sex and the City comes to the suburbs!
» 19 Essex St., Andover, 978-475-4811, gloryrestaurant.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Strega, 92 Lafayette St., Salem, 978-741-0004, stregasalem.com
Cheers to Strega for creating a hip spot to share a small plate or a sip a martini and drink in the vibe. The spacious lounge area is comfy and full of personality, the ideal backdrop for bar drama. Whether you want to meet, be discreet, or just enjoy a drink and an app, you can find your spot at Strega.
» 94 Lafayette St., Salem, 978-741-0004, stregasalem.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Strega, 92 Lafayette St., Salem, 978-741-0004, stregasalem.com
If you’re looking to unwind after a round of golf, watch a game with the buds, or enjoy a pizza or burger, head on over to 466 Pub and Grill. Here you will discover a modern man-cave where you can relish a victory or soothe a defeat with good food and drink. » 466 Newbury St., Danvers, 978-744-9662.
Reader’s Choice: The Bostonville Grille,
325 Broadway, Lynnfield, 781-592-1010, bostonvillegrille.com
Fantasy Island may look peaceful during the day but on Friday and Saturday nights this place explodes with those looking to top the charts. When you’re in the mood to belt it out, the modern décor and low lighting make this stage the perfect venue.
» 516 Loring Ave., Salem, 978-745-1700, fantasyislandsalem.com.
Reader’s Choice: Fantasy Island,
516 Loring Ave., Salem, 978-745-1700, fantasy islandsalem.com
