10 Best Things to Do in Duxbury (MA)

Duxbury, a charming town on the South Shore of Massachusetts, is steeped in history and natural beauty. Known for its maritime past and stunning coastal views, Duxbury has a rich legacy dating back to the early 19th century, during the end of the Age of Sail. The town’s heritage is reflected in its historic districts, beautiful beaches, and cultural landmarks. Here’s a closer look at some of the highlights that make Duxbury a unique and appealing destination.

Duxbury Beach Park

Duxbury Beach Park is one of Massachusetts’ most scenic and accessible beaches. This six-mile crescent of sand extends into Cape Cod Bay, offering visitors a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks. The beach is partly located in Duxbury, Marshfield, and Plymouth and is connected to Duxbury’s Powder Point by a historic wooden bridge. Originally constructed in 1892, the bridge was rebuilt in the 1980s, maintaining its original style.

Visitors can access the lifeguarded beach park via this bridge with a parking sticker, while day visitors can reach the park through Marshfield to the north. The beach is well-maintained year-round, with warm waters during the summer and expansive sandy areas exposed at low tide. For dining, Blakeman’s Restaurant offers a selection of New England seafood favorites, such as fish & chips, clam strips, scallops, and lobster rolls.

Alden House Historic Site

Located on a hill overlooking the Bluefish River, the Alden House Historic Site is where Mayflower cooper John Alden and his wife, Priscilla, settled and raised their ten children. This site has been maintained by the Alden family since the 17th century and contains the foundations of the original home built around 1630. The existing house, believed to have been constructed by John Alden’s grandson in the early 18th century, is open for guided tours from June to October. The surrounding grounds, featuring heirloom gardens, are open year-round.

Myles Standish Monument State Reservation

Dedicated to Myles Standish, the military leader of the Plymouth Colony, this state park and monument occupy a commanding position atop Captain’s Hill. The 116-foot granite tower, topped with a statue of Standish, offers stunning views of the South Shore, including the Blue Hills, Duxbury Beach, Plymouth Harbor, and various lighthouses. Visitors can climb the 125 steps to the top of the tower on weekends starting from Memorial Day, or simply enjoy the panoramic views from the hilltop.

Old Shipbuilder’s Historic District

Duxbury’s Old Shipbuilder’s Historic District along Washington Street showcases the town’s rich maritime history. Lined with around 200 historic homes, mostly in the Federal style, this district reflects the prosperity brought by sea trade in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Notable examples include the Nathaniel Winsor, Jr. House, now owned by the Duxbury Rural and Historical Society, and the Charles Drew, Jr. House, among others. The district offers a glimpse into the past, with elegant wood frame houses that once belonged to wealthy shipbuilders and merchants.

Island Creek Oysters

Duxbury Bay’s cold, salty waters are ideal for oyster farming, a fact discovered in the 1990s by Skip Bennett, the son of a local lobsterman. Today, Island Creek Oysters has grown into a renowned shellfish hatchery and distributor, representing around 100 farms. Visitors can tour the oyster farm aboard the Nathaniel Winsor, a 27-foot Carolina Skiff, and learn about oyster farming while enjoying fresh oysters and drinks.

Nathaniel Winsor, Jr. House

Built for the affluent shipping merchant Nathaniel Winsor, Jr., this Federal-style house serves as the headquarters of the Duxbury Rural and Historical Society. Open to the public for free, the house features impressive architectural details, including pilasters, a grand portal, and intricate woodcarvings, possibly crafted by Winsor himself. The house is used for educational programs, special events, and meetings throughout the year.

Myles Standish Burial Ground

The Myles Standish Burial Ground, established around 1638, is considered the oldest maintained cemetery in the United States. This triangular plot of land is the final resting place of several Mayflower pilgrims, including Myles Standish. The site features the oldest gravestones, such as those of Jonathan Alden and Ichabod Wiswall, and a monument to Standish, complete with historic cannons at each corner.

North Hill Marsh

North Hill Marsh, part of the Eastern Greenbelt, covers over 1,000 acres of Duxbury’s interior, offering a vast trail system through diverse landscapes. Managed by various public and private entities, including the Mass Audubon, this area is home to wildlife like rare box and spotted turtles, and numerous bird species. The trails, some dating back to the early 17th century, provide a glimpse into the natural beauty of Duxbury’s wetlands.

Bradford House

The Bradford House, another property managed by the Duxbury Rural and Historical Society, was built in 1807 by Captain Gershom Bradford. Remarkably, the house was run by a succession of women throughout the 19th century. The Bradford daughters were notable figures, involved in the abolitionist movement, nursing during the Civil War, and pursuing artistic and botanical interests. The house offers public tours, showcasing Bradford family heirlooms and historical records.

French Memories

For over three decades, French Memories has been a beloved patisserie in Duxbury, offering authentic French pastries and savory dishes. Co-owned by Philippe Odier, a Parisian pastry chef, the bakery serves a variety of treats, including baguettes, croissants, tarts, and macarons. The shop also offers sandwiches, paninis, and quiches, often made with imported French ingredients, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Duxbury, with its blend of historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and cultural offerings, is a unique community that continues to honor its rich past while providing modern amenities and attractions.

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