Things to do in Lowell
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Arthur’s Paradise Diner
The epitome of ‘old school, ’ this place is open only for breakfast and lunch and specializes in something called the Boot Mill sandwich (egg, bacon, cheese and home fries on a grilled roll). Expect long waits, testy service and an atmosphere as authentic as it comes. In other words, paradise.
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Whistler House Museum of Art
In 1834 Anna Mathilda (McNeill) Whistler, wife of the local agent for the Locks and Canals Corporation, gave birth to future artist James Abbott McNeill Whistler (1834–1903). The coming of the railroad made locks and canals less important, and the Whistlers moved away from Lowell in 1837. Young James went on to become one of America’s greatest 19th-century painters. Whistler’s birthplace, built in 1823, is now the home of the Lowell Art Association. It contains a permanent collection of the artist’s works, and hosts exhibits of works by his contemporaries and modern New England artists. Outside, an 8ft bronze statue of the artist, completed by sculptor Mico Kaufm…
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Boott Cotton Mills Museum
Five blocks northeast along the river, the Boott Cotton Mills Museum has exhibits that chronicle the rise and fall of the industrial revolution in Lowell, including technological changes, labor movements and immigration. The highlight is a working weave room, with 88 power looms. A special exhibit on Mill Girls & Immigrants (978-970-5000; 40 French St; admission free; 1:30-4:30pm) examines the lives of working people, while other seasonal exhibits are sometimes on display in other historic buildings around town.
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Jack Kerouac Commemorative
Dedicated in 1988, the Jack Kerouac Commemorative features a landscaped path where excerpts of the writer’s work are posted, including opening passages from his five novels set in Lowell. They are thoughtfully displayed with Catholic and Buddhist symbols, representing the belief systems that influenced him. The memorial is northeast of the visitors center along the Eastern Canal.
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Lowell National Historical Park
The historic buildings in the city center - connected by the trolley and canal boats - comprise the national park, which gives a fascinating peak at the workings of a 19th-century industrial town. Stop first at the Market Mills Visitors Center to pick up a map and check out the general exhibits. An introductory multimedia video on historic Lowell is shown every half-hour.
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Athenian Corner
Across the street from the Market Mills Visitors Center, this restaurant is a hallmark of Lowell’s immigrant Greek community. The Panagiotopoulis family offers real-deal Greek specialties, such as faki (lentil soup), souvlaki and moussaka; finish it off with sticky sweet baklava or creamy rice pudding. Authentic Athens right in Lowell’s center.
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Southeast Asian Restaurant
Aficionados of Lao, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisines come here from all over New England to feast on authentic Asian fare, including the legendary ‘bowl of fire’ (Lao spicy beef). In the heart of the Acre, the restaurant and associated market are a beacon of culture for Lowell’s Southeast Asian immigrants.
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La Boniche
This little bistro inspires patrons to rave about the delectable food, even if service is sometimes spotty. The two dining rooms in this restored storefront nook fill with scents of French nouvelle cuisine, attracting an upscale crowd for lunch and dinner. The excellent selection of paté gets top reviews.
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New England Quilt Museum
The New England Quilt Museum has a collection of over 150 antique and contemporary quilts from around New England, as well as an extensive library and a lovely gift shop. It’s located a half-block from the Lowell National Historic Park visitors center.
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Worthen House
- Lowell, USA
- Restaurants › Pub
This old brick tavern is famed for its amazing, pulley-driven fan system (which is still operational). The pressed tin ceiling and wooden bar remain from the early days, giving this place an old-fashioned neighborhood feel. Stop by for a pint of Guinness and a burger.
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Exploring Lowell Tours
The Lowell National Historic Park rangers offer free tours of Lowell Cemetery, the Acre and the Riverwalk, as well as other tours focusing on the Lowell 'mill girls' and sights associated with Jack Kerouac. Reservations required.
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Edson Cemetery
Two miles south of Lowell center, Kerouac is buried in the Sampas family plot at Edson Cemetery. His gravesite remains a pilgrimage site for devotees who were inspired by his free spirit.
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American Textile History Museum
The American Textile History Museum features vintage spinning wheels and looms that continue to operate in the weave shed. It’s located a block south of the Whistler House.
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Lowell Spinners
The Class A Lowell Spinners are a Red Sox feeder-team. Locally, they play at LeLacheur Park, which is north of the center on the Merrimack River.
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Mill Girls & Immigrants Exhibit
A special exhibit examines the lives of working people, while other seasonal exhibits are sometimes on display in other historic buildings around town.
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Canal Tours
Canal Tours are offered throughout the summer, but the schedule varies according to season and water levels.
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Revolving Museum
The edgy, artist-run Revolving Museum has fun and funky exhibits and special events.
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