The best things to do in Essex County

“Whether the crew needs a chill weeknight plan or a birthday spot that won’t make you cry into the cake, Metro Bowl in Peabody has bowling, an arcade, billiards, party rooms, and the on-site Spare Time Tavern. Easy go-to for leagues, fundraisers, or spontaneous let’s-just-roll nights.”

From the Peabody newsletter, October 6, 2026

“When the weather and work schedules never align, The Clubhouse Golf & Entertainment has over 12,000 square feet of indoor golf with official PGA Tour aboutGolf simulators, plus a legit game room with billiards, darts, cornhole and more, solid for leagues, lessons, or hosting your next get-together.”

From the Danvers newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Gloucester Cinema keeps it simple in the best way, with current releases on local screens, online ticketing that actually works, and occasional 3D when the spectacle calls for it. Planning a birthday or private watch party? They do rentals and gift cards, so your movie night basically plans itself.”

From the Gloucester newsletter, October 8, 2026

“If your kiddo is obsessed with trucks, funnels, and making tiny volcanoes, Sandmagination turns that energy into clean, STEAM-led sand play for ages 10 and under. Locals love the tidy vibe, safety-first staff, and party options, all without committing to a whole beach day.”

From the Peabody newsletter, September 23, 2026

“With 44 lanes, a legit video and pinball arcade, and Pub 125 slinging drinks and bowling-friendly eats, Academy Lanes is where Haverhill goes to roll deep. Weekends skew dance clubby, weeknights are league-friendly, and it all feels like that perfect “one more game” hang.”

From the Haverhill newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Bass Rocks Golf Club is a classic 1896 Herbert Leeds seaside links with Atlantic views on nearly every hole, mischievous winds, chocolate drop mounds, and fast, firm bent/poa greens where staying below the pin is gospel... the kind of local test that keeps your short game honest.”

From the Gloucester newsletter, September 25, 2026

“International Candlepin Bowling Association is the go-to hub for everything candlepin in our corner of Massachusetts, from a Find a Center tool and rules to tournaments, youth events, world records, and the Hall of Fame. Perfect if you want a new place to roll, a kid-friendly sport, or trivia bragging rights.”

From the Haverhill newsletter, October 13, 2026

“Driving range & mini-golf spot provides pro lessons, an ice cream stand & a koi pond with feed.”

“Indoor laser tag chain offering games for children & adults in multi-level, fog-filled arenas.”

“Just up the road, Little Art Cinema is Rockport's local arthouse spot for thoughtfully chosen films and the occasional live performance. Sign up for their weekly schedule, catch something you won't find at the multiplex, or even book the theater for a friends and neighbors screening...”

From the Gloucester newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Family-owned since 2019, Gametime Lanes & Entertainment mixes Ten Pin HyperBowling, axe throwing, arcade play, and billiards with a lively sports bar featuring a 30-foot screen and crowd-pleasing wings, smash burgers, and flatbreads. Easy place for leagues, midweek specials, or planning that next birthday or team hang.”

From the Peabody newsletter, October 13, 2026

“Kid-friendly chain known for its arcade games, pizza parties & play zones.”

“Whether you’re itching for a laid-back league night or corralling the crew for a birthday, Sunnyside Bowladrome Inc delivers 32 candlepin lanes with easy electronic scoring, new Z-4 pinsetters, and beer and wine. Bonus points for the pro shop that stocks legit bowling and billiard gear.”

From the Salem newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Whether you're sneaking in nine or grooving the swing, Garrison Par 3 Golf Center keeps it friendly with an approachable par-3 course, a solid driving range, lessons, and junior programs. Family-run since 1969, it’s the kind of laid-back place that quietly makes Haverhill better.”

From the Haverhill newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Kernwood Country Club pairs a classic Ross layout with undulating greens and brains over brawn golf, then rounds it out with dining, pool, tennis, and a friendly, inclusive membership. Beverly locals lean on it for family time and polished weddings or milestone events that actually let you enjoy the moment.”

From the Salem newsletter, September 25, 2026

“STEMspot pairs a mini, hands-on museum vibe with a cozy café and coworking nooks, so kids tinker while you caffeinate and clear your inbox. Great for open play, birthday parties, or field trips, and you can grab a spot right from their app.”

From the Methuen newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Sarkisian Farms Driving Range & Ice Cream is that rare local combo where you can groove your swing on a putting green and sand bunker, then reward yourself with Richardson’s Ice Cream this week. Easy vibe, real golf instruction available, and zero guilt because you definitely earned that scoop.”

From the Lowell newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Bradford Country Club brings home-course comfort with a championship layout that’s open to the public and genuinely fun to play. Expect a fair challenge that keeps locals coming back, plus space for golf outings and functions when your crew wants something more memorable than another back-porch hang.”

From the Haverhill newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Far Corner Golf strings together three distinct nines, The Fox, The Heron, The Hawk, across West Boxford’s countryside, with herons, hawks, and the occasional fox keeping score. Warm up on the all-grass practice facility, then unwind on the Grille Room’s wraparound deck with something tasty.”

From the Haverhill newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Merrimack Valley Golf Club serves up rolling bentgrass greens, valley views, and a classic Donald Ross layout refreshed by George Sargent, with league play that keeps things lively and the Sandtrap Bar & Grille ready for the post-round debrief... no initiation fees, just show up and swing.”

From the Methuen newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Members-only country club with a golf course and a bar, plus venues for events like weddings.”

“Renaissance Golf Club in Haverhill is a true local escape, with an award-winning Brian Silva Signature course that’s fun to play, then better to relive over dinner at The Grille Room or a post-round hang at The Boot. Family-friendly programming and year-round events keep the North Shore vibe strong.”

From the Haverhill newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Planning a wedding close to home? Groveland Fairways by Wedgewood Weddings delivers that classic New England estate vibe with a wraparound porch, meandering brick paths, and garden or fireside ceremony spots.”

From the Haverhill newsletter, August 28, 2026

“The Meadow at Peabody gives North Shore golfers an honest test without the drama, with wide fairways that still make you think and legit elevation changes that keep it fun. Jump into a league, grab simulator swings, or book a lesson with PGA pro Dan Cronin for a smoother after-work nine.”

From the Peabody newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Need a no-fuss spot to run, stretch the legs, or catch a local matchup, Manning Field is Lynn’s go-to turf-and-track complex for youth and high school action. Hit the oval for some laps when it’s quiet, then cheer on the kids when the whistles start.”

From the Peabody newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Oceanview of Nahant nails the romantic-by-the-water vibe with panoramic ocean views, a private beach for ceremonies, and on-site catering that actually feels custom. Their planning portal keeps chaos in check, and yes, you can cap the night with a fire pit send-off or last dance on the sand.”

From the Lynn newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Gannon Municipal Golf Course delivers a legit 18-hole Wayne Stiles challenge tucked by Lynn Woods, with consistently tidy conditions and that throwback Tudor clubhouse vibe. Book online, jump into leagues or a casual daily-fee round, then swing by the pro shop for lessons when the driver misbehaves.”

From the Peabody newsletter, September 4, 2026

“If you’re craving a quick 9 with classic Donald Ross quirks, poolside downtime, and racquets action across tennis, paddle, and pickleball, North Andover Country Club keeps it fun and local beside Lake Cochichewick. Peek at membership options, book a lesson, or dip into a league this week.”

From the Haverhill newsletter, August 26, 2026

“If you’re craving classic New England golf and a spot that nails life’s big moments, Andover Country Club brings an 18-hole championship course, leagues and pristine practice areas, plus elegant ballrooms and fine dining for weddings or events. Consider it your local excuse to dress up or tee off this week.”

From the Methuen newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Hickory Hill Golf Course keeps Methuen swinging with 18 holes designed by Manny Francis and four tee boxes that let everyone play their game. Warm up at the driving range, then swap scorecards over a bite and a cold one at the Hickory Bar/Grill.”

From the Methuen newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Skip the couch and catch CatVideoFest 2026 today at The Cabot, the lovingly modernized 1920s stunner serving up films, live music, and community vibes beneath ornate ceilings. Want laughs later this week, check out Off Cabot for intimate comedy, improv, and the kind of weeknight energy Salem folks secretly crave.”

From the Beverly newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Indoor golf course with several simulators plus a bar and eatery, and friendly crew.”