Museum of Old Newbury Cushing House
Step into early 19th-century New England at the Cushing House, a Federal-style home filled with period furnishings and local history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Seasonal opening for tours
Museum of Old Newbury Cushing House
Best Time
Seasonal opening for tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into early 19th-century New England at the Cushing House, a Federal-style home filled with period furnishings and local history.
"A great little gem of a museum that tells the region's history in an engaging way."
🎟️ Book Tours in Advance
Tours are limited to 10 people. Call ahead for larger groups or to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The outdoor gardens are free and open daily from dawn to dusk, offering a lovely, accessible experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Federal-Style Architecture
The House Itself
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved early 19th-century home, showcasing exquisite Federal design.
Period Furnishings & Exhibits
Interior Rooms
Explore rooms filled with authentic furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of the families who lived here.
Local History & "Tombstone Tuesdays"
Exhibits & Special Events
Discover the rich history of Newburyport and its residents, with unique insights from special programs like 'Tombstone Tuesdays'.
Enchanting Gardens
Outdoor Grounds
Wander through the free-to-access gardens, a peaceful retreat offering beautiful scenery from dawn till dusk.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
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Accessibility & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Must do things in Newburyport MA
🎟️ Book Tours in Advance
Tours are limited to 10 people. Call ahead for larger groups or to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The outdoor gardens are free and open daily from dawn to dusk, offering a lovely, accessible experience.
Is anyone familiar with Newburyport?
Newburyport or Salem (first week of May)?
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is available for free on High Street and Fruit Street, making access convenient.
♿ Limited Accessibility
Be aware that historic homes like this are not fully accessible for those with mobility challenges.
Last months in MA … what is something I must do before leaving?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tours in Advance
Tours are limited to 10 people. Call ahead for larger groups or to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The outdoor gardens are free and open daily from dawn to dusk, offering a lovely, accessible experience.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is available for free on High Street and Fruit Street, making access convenient.
♿ Limited Accessibility
Be aware that historic homes like this are not fully accessible for those with mobility challenges.
📅 Check Seasonal Hours
The museum operates seasonally, typically June through October. Always verify hours before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cushing House for its well-preserved state and the engaging, informative tours led by knowledgeable guides. The house's rich history and the stories of the families who lived there are a major highlight. While the interior tours are a primary draw, the free and accessible gardens also receive positive mentions, offering a pleasant outdoor experience.
"I had such a good tour here. House is in terrific shape and a guest gets to see quite a bit of it. Very interesting history of the families that lived here. Tour is reasonably priced and well-led. I would recommend a visit."
Michael Miller
"I toured the Museum of Old Newbury back in June. This was is a fun and family-friendly excursion.
The Cushing House is open Thursday through Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m during the regular season of the first Thursday in June through the Sunday of the first full weekend in October. The cost for a guided tour is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for youth, and free for both members and residents of the “Old Newbury” towns. Tickets can be purchased in advance on the museum website or in person at the door. Tours are currently limited to ten people, so call ahead if your group is larger.
I noticed that tours do not appear to follow a script and must vary widely depending on the guide. Like most historic houses, this museum is not accessible to those with limited mobility.
The outdoor section of the museum is free and open to the public between dawn and dusk. Parking for the museum is free on High Street and Fruit Street.
I greatly enjoyed my time at the museum and look forward to visiting the gardens again in the future when the weather is less sporadic."
Abigail Epplett
"Great tour about Newbury history and excellent collections! A stunning house!"
Clara Read
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Newburyport, MA. Free parking is available on High Street and Fruit Street.
Information on public transportation options is not readily available, but driving and parking on-site are convenient.
You'll find free parking available on High Street and Fruit Street near the museum.
Yes, the outdoor gardens are free and open to the public from dawn to dusk, even if you're not taking a house tour.
Absolutely! Newburyport is a charming coastal town and makes for a wonderful day trip from Boston, with the Cushing House being a key attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Cushing House is typically open Thursday through Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., during its regular season (June to October). Always check their website for the most current hours.
Admission for a guided tour is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $5 for youth. Members and residents of 'Old Newbury' towns get in free.
Yes, tickets can be purchased in advance on the museum's website or in person at the door.
Yes, there are discounted rates for seniors ($8) and youth ($5). Members and residents of 'Old Newbury' towns are free.
Guided tours are the primary way to see the house interior. Tours are limited to ten people, so booking ahead is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours are led by knowledgeable guides and offer a deep dive into the history of the families and the house. The content can vary based on the guide.
Unfortunately, like many historic houses, the Cushing House is not fully accessible to those with limited mobility.
The outdoor section of the museum is free and open from dawn to dusk, offering a pleasant space to stroll and enjoy the grounds.
Yes, the museum hosts special events, such as 'Tombstone Tuesdays' and an annual garden tour, which are very popular and often sell out.
Tour lengths can vary depending on the guide and group engagement, but generally allow for a thorough exploration of the house and its history.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies inside historic houses can vary. It's best to check with your guide or museum staff upon arrival regarding interior photography rules.
The exterior of the Federal-style house and the surrounding gardens offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Newburyport itself is very picturesque, with its historic architecture and waterfront. Plum Island also offers great scenic and wildlife photography.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is helpful for interiors. For exteriors and gardens, a versatile lens will serve you well.
Yes, the gardens are a great place for photography, and since they are free to access, you can spend as much time as you like capturing their beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that the historic nature of the house means it's not fully accessible for strollers or those with mobility issues. However, the accessible gardens provide a great alternative. Consider checking the museum's schedule for any family-friendly events or exhibits that might be particularly engaging for children.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Furthermore, free parking on High Street and Fruit Street eliminates another potential expense. For those looking to experience a piece of Newburyport's rich history without breaking the bank, focusing on the gardens and perhaps attending a special event with a clear admission price is a great strategy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Newburyport's Past
Beyond the house, the museum actively engages the community with unique programming. "Tombstone Tuesdays" are a particularly fascinating example, offering a close and personal insight into the lives of early residents through their final resting places. This approach highlights the museum's commitment to telling the region's story in an engaging and accessible way. The special events, like the annual garden tour, often sell out, underscoring their popularity and the community's appreciation for this local gem.
For those interested in genealogy or local history, the museum serves as an invaluable resource. It allows individuals to research the history of their own old homes and connect with the broader narrative of Newbury/Newburyport. The dedication of local historians and their contributions to the museum experience are frequently praised by visitors, inspiring curiosity and a deep appreciation for the beautiful place they call home.
Exploring the Grounds and Gardens
The gardens are a significant draw, especially during the warmer months. Visitors often express their enjoyment of returning to the gardens, particularly when the weather is favorable. The opportunity to wander through these meticulously maintained grounds offers a different perspective on the property and its historical context. It’s a space that complements the historical narrative of the house by showcasing the importance of landscape and outdoor living in the lives of its former inhabitants.
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