Newburyport FAQ

Where in the world is Newburyport, Massachusetts?[Top]
For those looking at a map, Newburyport is at 42.812N latitude and -70.877W longitude. Located on the south bank of the Merrimack River at the mouth of the Atlantic Ocean, Newburyport was originally inhabited by the Pawtucket Indians and later settled in the 1630's by European immigrants.

How many people live in Newburyport?[Top]
17,303 people call Newburyport home.

Where are the closest airports located?[Top]
There are three options to choose from:
Boston Logan International Airport is 35 miles south of Newburyport.
Manchester Airport is 47 miles northwest of Newburyport.
Portland International Jetport is 74 miles north of Newburyport.

Will I need an automobile once I'm in Newburyport?[Top]
Probably not. You can walk to each venue and plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops.

What's the weather going to be like for the festival?[Top]
We're not just documentary film buffs, we're also meteorologists! The average high temperature hovers around 60 degrees and the low is about 40 degrees. Expect a northwest wind around 10 to 15MPH. It'll be most sunny with intermittent clouds throughout the evening hours. Kelly and Bob, back to you in the studio!

I want to show off my abs. Is there a beach nearby? [Top]
You and your six-pack are in luck. Dust off your stomach and head over to Plum Island—an 11-mile long barrier island off the shore of Newburyport. The island has many residences, a national wildlife refuge, small shops and restaurants, and, of course, miles of beautiful sandy beaches.

I want to see some wildlife! Can you hook me up?[Top]
We gotcha covered, Dutch. Migratory birds and marine mammals can be seen at the Joppa Flats Wildlife Sanctuary. Plus, you can go on a whale watching voyage with Newburyport Whale Watch.

Does Newburyport have a Chamber of Commerce?[Top]
Of course. Here's their Web site: www.newburyportchamber.org

Where can I see live music?[Top]
Here's a quick sample of places to catch musicians in action: David's Tavern, Glenn's, Joseph's Winter Street Café, Michael's Harborside, The Grog, and The Rockfish.

My back will look like a corkscrew if I watch documentary movies all day long. Is there any place I can get a massage?[Top]
Sure is. Massage Only will get your back into shape … and provide facials, manicures, and pedicures.

What the heck is saltwater taffy?[Top]
Saltwater taffy is more than a candy—it's an upper-body workout, too. To give it a light but chewy texture, you'll be pulling it, and pulling it, and pulling it for up to 15 minutes. Winfrey's Fudge & Chocolates in Newburyport has 18 flavors that'll make your taste buds smile and your triceps sore.

Nothing whets my appetite for documentary films like an over-the-top Jerry Bruckheimer flick. Where can I go to see big budget, mind-numbing movies full of violence and unoriginality? [Top]
You can go to Hoyt's or Cinemagic in Salisbury (only 2 miles from Newburyport).

I'm bringing my sticks with me. Where can I golf?[Top]
We recommend the Amesbury Golf & Country Club.

Is the foliage in New England as good as my mother-in-law claims?[Top]
Yeah, she's not exaggerating. You can find several popular fall foliage driving tours by clicking here.

Where can I rent movies in Newburyport?[Top]
Wait a minute. You're going to attend the Northern Lights Documentary Film Festival and RENT movies?!?! That's messed up. But, if you insist, movies can be rented from Blockbuster Video and Express Video.