David Mark Fowler: Amesbury, Massachusetts

Situated along the banks of the Merrimack River in northern Massachusetts, Amesbury is a pictorial city with a maritime history. This scene from Lowell's Boat Shop is modern, but they've been making wooden boats here since 1793. It was here that Simeon Lowell designed the iconic New England fishing dory.

Today, the working fishing boats that once dotted the Merrimac have largely been replaced by pleasure boats, as seen here from nearby Alliance Park which offers several "benches with a view" of the Merrimack River.

Several marinas can be found along the river, such as the The Marina at Hatter's Point which is across the river from Maudslay State Park.

There are many historic buildings to admire in Amesbury. From distinctive homes...

to a large meeting house...

to a classic New England church.

You might even be interested to wander among the old tombstones of the Salisbury Plains Cemetery, which was established in 1640.

You will notice the name "Whittier" is bandied about quite a bit in this town - that's because American poet John Greenleaf Whittier made Amesbury his hometown from 1836 - 1892.

If you're looking for a place to stretch your legs for a walk, consider Woodsom Farm Park...

...which is owned by the city of Amesbury and contains 500 acres...

...with various paths mowed through the tall grass for walking.

Or how about the Amesbury Riverwalk, a short rail trail with railroad memorabilia and a view of the scenic Powwow River?

When you're ready for some shopping and dining, you'll be more than pleased to explore the historic downtown area.

Like many places throughout the city, the architecture here is both interesting and varied.

There is a great "downtown feeling" as you explore the various shops and restaurants.

But there is something very special and unique in particular about the Amesbury downtown experience that you must be sure not to miss! When you walk through here...