Last updated: October 30, 2021
Article
Top 10 Tips for Visiting Saugus Iron Works
NPS Photo
With a busy summer season upon us, we want everyone to have a positive park experience. A little advance trip planning can ensure that your only surprises are happy ones. Plan like a park ranger and use these insider tips to have a great visit to Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site!
Temporary closures and modified operations are currently in place. Review our Alerts & Conditions for the most up-to-date information.
There is no entrance fee to visit Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site. Everybody is welcome to walk through and enjoy the park as often as they please!
Located just 9 miles from Boston Logan International Airport, Saugus Iron Works is reachable by public transportation and personal vehicle. There is a visitor parking lot available for use at the site entrance.
Download the free official NPS App to access self-guided tours, things to do, and more! The quality of cell phone service depends on your provider, so consider downloading content before your visit so that you can access it offline.
The upper lawn provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy a New England sunrise. We have adirondack chairs along the stone wall overlooking the industrial area available for visitors to sit back, relax, and take in the view. Review our Basic Information for current park operating hours and seasons.
Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site is home to over 40 species of birds found in three major habitat types broadly classified as landscaped areas, wetlands and riparian woodlands.
Look for barn swallow nests and newly hatched birds in the rafters of the casting shed at the base of blast furnace. Many bird species can be seen splashing in the Saugus River during high tide or hunting for food during low tide. And don’t forget to explore woodland habitat along the Nature Trail!
National Recreation Trails are land and water based trails that provide close to home recreation opportunities to rural and urban communities and economic development through tourism. The Saugus Iron Works Nature Trail follows the eastern bank of the Saugus River. Take in views of the adjacent riverside woodlands, tidal mudflats and scenic vistas of the restored 17th century iron works.
Food just tastes better when eaten outdoors! In the northern area of the upper lawn, near the Iron Works House and Museum, is the picnic area with tables and open green space for your enjoyment.
Keep exploring! Massachusetts is home to 15 national parks and 3 national trails. While you’re in town, check out our sibling park only 9 miles away, Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
Discover how iron making evolved over the course of a few thousand years. Explore the smelting, casting, refining and forging, rolling and slitting, and blacksmithing processes that were performed at Saugus Iron Works.
The Saugus Iron Works official park film, Iron Works on the Saugus, provides an overview of the creation, operation, and historical significance of Saugus Iron Works in the 17th century.