Five North Andover Staycation Ideas for Labor Day Weekend
North Andover has a lot to offer, without the long commute.
It's Labor Day weekend. That last long weekend of summer. Many people are taking trips up to the mountains or to the beach. But what if you're staying home? Local 'staycations' can be just as fun.
Here are five suggestions for staycations in North Andover. Feel free to add your own in the comments.
1. Parson Barnard House: You can bring the family on a trip back in time, to the roots of their town's history, for free, thanks to the North Andover Historical Society. This Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can view the house for free rain or shine. The gift shop will also be on hand offering some of the great local history books and goods.
2. Harold Parker State Forest: This 3,500-acre forest -- which crosses over North Andover, Andover, North Reading and Middleton -- offers hiking trails, rolling hills, several ponds, bike trails and countless breathtaking views.
3. Smolak Farms: This local destination has acres of scenery, hayrides, animals, a bakery and Treadwell's Ice Cream.
4. Stevens-Coolidge Place: This local gem offers breathtaking scenery and connection with nature and local history. Families go there to picnic, to check out the pretty flowers and lily ponds, and to walk the grounds and admire the landscaping. And it's free and open to the public.
5. Spa Day: You've made it through another summer with the kids. They're going back to school and you could use a nice rejuvenating reward. Why not treat yourself to a day at a spa? Check out our Patch Directory for local spas and get yourself to the massage table this weekend.
Whatever you and your family are doing this Labor Day weekend, have fun!
kathy Stevens
8:59 pm on Sunday, September 2, 2012
Parson Barnard House open October 6 if you missed it during Labor Day Weekend. Thank you Patch for letting people know.