Lowell National Historical Park, in the heart of downtown Lowell, is a mix of museums, historic sites, and canals. The visitor center is inside Market Mills, the former Lowell Manufacturing Company mill complex. The city, with its textile mills, was the first large-scale planned industrial city in American history.

Take a tour at the center, pick up maps, explore exhibits, and watch the video “Lowell: The Industrial Revelation” to learn about the city and its history. Afterward you can ride on historic replica trolleys, cruise on the city’s canals aboard a tour boat, or walk along 5.6-mile paved paths next to the canals. Interpretive signs give information about historic buildings along the way and the town’s history.

The Concord River Greenway (CRG) is a multiuse trail that runs through the heart of Lowell. Amazingly, in spring, the Concord River transforms into a class 3/4 rapids, great for whitewater rafting. Along the trail, you can bike, walk, and fish. Pick up the trail east of the Lowell National Historical Park on Lawrence Street.

Remember: The annual Lowell Folk Festival in July is a popular familyfriendly event.

Western Avenue Studios is a brick mill building with six floors of 143 studios filled with artists working in all disciplines, media, and styles. Visitors are welcome, and it is great place to bring kids to see art being created.

A number of places to dine are on and around Market Street.