The Visitor Center at Lowell National Historical Park is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, from Memorial Day weekend through Thanksgiving.
At Lowell National Historical Park, adults pay $12, seniors $10, students and youth $8, and children under 6 enter free. The Boott Cotton Mills Museum costs $6 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for students and youth. Annual Senior Pass is $20, lifetime Senior Pass is $80.
From Boston, take Route 495 to Exit 89C, then the Lowell Connector to Thorndike Street, immersing yourself in a historic tapestry of 19th-century mills and vibrant cultural heritage.
For cars, use the Downes Parking Garage at 75 John Street (paid, 6’8″ height limit) or free parking at 350 Dutton Street. Oversized vehicles like RVs and buses park on Father Morissette Boulevard. No overnight parking. Motorcycles use regular parking spaces. Disable parking is free.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
Lowell National Historical Park, situated in the heart of Lowell, Massachusetts, is a vibrant tapestry of industrial heritage and historical significance. This 141-acre park, established in 1978, is a testament to the city’s pivotal role in the American Industrial Revolution. As you stroll through the park, you are enveloped by the remnants of a bygone era: textile mills, worker housing, and 19th-century commercial buildings that stand as sentinels of a transformative period.
The Boott Cotton Mills Museum, with its operational weave room featuring 88 power looms, is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the lives of the mill girls and the technological advancements that defined the era. The Locks and Canals Historic District, part of the park, showcases the intricate network of canals and locks that powered the textile industry. The Old City Hall, erected in 1830, serves as a historic landmark and a venue where Abraham Lincoln once delivered a notable speech.
Seasonal changes bring different hues to the park: the spring awakens with blooming flora along the Merrimack River, summer welcomes visitors to boat tours and trolley rides, while autumn paints the landscape with vibrant colors. Winter offers a serene backdrop for walking tours, highlighting the architectural grandeur of buildings like the Kirk Street Agent’s House and the Moody Street Feeder Gatehouse.
Special events, such as ranger-led tours and the Mill Girls and Immigrant Exhibit at the Mogan Cultural Center, enrich the visitor experience. The Tsongas Industrial History Center provides in-depth insights into the industrial and labor history of the area. For those seeking an immersive experience, the park’s visitor center at 246 Market Street is an excellent starting point.
Nearby, the artisan town of Lowell buzzes with life, offering a array of local eateries, boutiques, and cultural venues. The River Transformed Exhibit at 600 Suffolk Street is another highlight, showcasing the evolution of the city’s relationship with its river. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or simply a traveler seeking to immerse yourself in a unique cultural landscape, Lowell National Historical Park is an unforgettable destination that resonates with the essence of America’s industrial past.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 541 000
- Established year
- 1978
Top 3 Facts about Lowell National Historical Park
The Boott Cotton Mills Museum features an operating weave room with 88 power looms, showcasing the industrial technology that drove the transition from farm to factory during the American Industrial Revolution.
In this urban oasis, New England cottontails and eastern grey squirrels dart through the underbrush, while muskrats glide through the Merrimack River. Above, a vibrant avian tapestry includes marsh wrens and wood thrushes. The waters are home to common carp and other ray-finned fishes, adding to the rich biodiversity of this unique ecosystem. Here, history and nature converge, offering a captivating experience for those who appreciate the intricate balance of urban wildlife.
Along the winding paths, the Merrimack and Concord rivers flow, their waters a mesmerizing blend of azure and amber, shaped by the city’s industrial past. The Northern Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering, spans over 4,000 feet, harnessing the head force of Pawtucket Falls to power the historic mills. This intricate waterway system, crafted by James B. Francis, adds a layer of complexity and beauty to the landscape, inviting visitors to explore the symbiotic relationship between nature and industry.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a summer visit to coincide with the Canal Tours and Trolley Tours. Allow a few days to explore the 5.6-mile canal system and historic mills. Park at 304 Dutton Street, and start at the Visitor Center. Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking and plan meals in advance as options are limited. Rest at Boarding House Park after visiting the Boott Cotton Mill. Check for seasonal events like the Northern Canal Walkway opening in mid-May.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varying weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. For camping, bring a season-appropriate tent, sleeping bag, and headlamp. Check the forecast and adjust gear accordingly. Don’t forget extra batteries and a multi-tool.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the Northeast’s unique flora by staying on designated walkways and avoiding sensitive plant areas, especially during blooming seasons. Keep a safe distance from wildlife and do not feed them. Dispose of trash properly to maintain the urban ecosystem.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water edges, and check weather and fire restrictions. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities. Be aware of your surroundings and keep children in sight. Follow all signs and advisories to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise to the 50s and 60s, enjoy mild weather and vibrant events. Raft the neighborhoods on Saturdays and Sundays in April and May, or attend the open house at Spalding House. Immerse yourself in history and adventure amidst blooming landscapes.
Summer in Lowell brings warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and vibrant events. Enjoy the Lowell Summer Music Series at Boarding House Park, featuring national performers, from July to August. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with free fun for kids on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Ideal time to explore historic mills and riverside trails.
Visit in fall, when crisp 50-60°F temperatures and vibrant foliage enhance the historic mills and canals. Attend the Lowell Celebrates Kerouac Fall Festival in October, honoring the city’s literary legacy with walks, readings, and cultural events. Ideal for a serene and culturally rich experience.
Experience winter’s charm from November to April, with temperatures often below 32°F. Historic mills and canals are set against a snowy backdrop, making for a unique and immersive visit despite the cold. Ride vintage trolleys and enjoy Winterfest festivities for a blend of history and winter magic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lowell National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Lowell National Historical Park is Lowell, Massachusetts, which is where the park is located, right near the New Hampshire border.
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The best hiking trail for kids is the Northern Canal Walkway, which offers breathtaking views of the Merrimack River and the canal system. This trail is part of the park’s urban hiking trails that follow the canals and feature wayside exhibits, making it educational and fun. The trail is easily accessible and suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
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Dogs are allowed in external areas, parking areas, and along paved roads, but they must be on a leash. They are not permitted in buildings or museums.
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You can park at the free parking lot at 304 Dutton Street, next to the visitor center, or use paid parking options such as the Joseph Downes city parking garage at 75 John Street or other municipal garages. There is also free parking at the Hamilton Canal Innovation District garage, which is a 0.6 mile walk from the Boott Cotton Mills Museum. For events, free validated parking may be available at the city parking garage at 350 Dutton Street.
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The park highlights the early 19th-century development of Lowell as a planned industrial city, driven by the construction of power canals and mills along the Merrimack River, particularly the Pawtucket Falls. This period saw the introduction of the power loom, credited to Francis Cabot Lowell, and the arrival of Irish workers in 1822 to build the canals and mills. The park also focuses on the city’s role in the American Industrial Revolution, including the rise and decline of the textile industry, and the preservation efforts led by local citizens and politicians like Paul Tsongas, culminating in the park’s establishment in 1978.