National Historical Park · MA

Lowell National Historical Park

Lowell’s water-powered textile mills catapulted the nation – including immigrant families and early female factory workers – into an uncertain new industrial era. Nearly 200 years later, the changes that began here still reverberate in our shifting global economy. Explore Lowell, a living testament to the dynamic human story of the industrial revolution.

nps.gov ↗

Photos

5 story brick factories with a clocktower surrounding a central courtyard
The Boott Cotton Mills is one of the best, most-intact complexes of cotton mills from Lowell's heyday in the 19th century.
Two students weaving on the looms at the education center.
The Tsongas Industrial History Center, a partnership of Lowell National Historical Park and UMass Lowell's Graduate School of Education, offers hands-on interactive education workshops for more than 50,000 students each year.
Streetcar guided through Lowell by motormen with lots of passengers
Lowell National Historical Park operates reproduction vintage streetcars throughout the park and downtown Lowell. Climb onboard for a ride or a ranger-guided tour.
Two young visitors look over the rail at a room full of working looms
The working weave room at the Boott Cotton Mills Museum surrounds you with the sights and sounds of a turn-of-the-century working cotton textile factory.
Street scene with lots of tents and crowds listening to Folk Festival music at Boardinghouse Park.
The Lowell Folk Festival, Lowell's signature annual event, brings traditional folk performers to 5 stages throughout the city and a huge variety of traditional ethnic foods from all around the world.

Activities

  • Arts and Culture
  • Craft Demonstrations
  • Cultural Demonstrations
  • Live Music
  • Boating
  • Boat Tour
  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking
  • Boat Tour
  • Hands-On
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Park Film
  • Museum Exhibits
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store
  • Gift Shop and Souvenirs