Explore Essex’s rich history of shipbuilding, clamming, agriculture, and other businesses along its coastal landscape. Enjoy the Great Marsh and the winding Essex River provide picturesque views and miles of open space for boating and kayaking, bird watching and waterfront dining. Considered by many to be America’s Antique Capital, Essex is a collector’s, dealer’s and decorator’s paradise with art, furnishings, and accessories with over 25 shops all within walking distance of one another. Savor delicious food at one of the many restaurants throughout Essex and overlooking the Essex River. One-of-a-kind festivals and events are held in this classic New England setting including an annual chowder tasting festival, an Essex River race, events at the Essex Shipbuilding Museum and Cogswell’s Grant folk art museum, Plein Air painting, Essex Farmers Market and a self-guided Historic Essex Walking Tour in the Essex River Cultural District.