Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site

"Went during the off season and used the NPS App to listen to an audio tour. Will return in June when it opens but recommend it even when it is closed. Plenty of parking. There are lawns and picnic area along with chairs."

"I did not know the history of this first in the nation foundry and iron works. The visitors center is small and the gift shop very small. They only take cards for purchases, no cash. Then went to the musume and watched the history of this place. The musume has original artifacts from the 1951 dig."

"Very interesting historical site! The first integrated iron works in America, though it only operated for a few decades. The buildings have been restored, so you can walk through the furnace, forge, and slitting mill buildings and see what it would have looked like. They have examples of some of the intermediate products in the forge. It's cool to see how a chunk of iron progresses to a nice smooth bar or tiny rod to be made into nails. The museum is small but very informative about the process of making iron and some of the history of the site. Rangers give tours of the home on the site (restored home from late 1600's) and the iron works, but check the schedule to see what is available when, as it changes."

"Wonderful historical site with loads of original and historically accurate recreations of a working iron works plant from the 1600s. The free guided tour was very well done and loaded with information. This is the site of the first successful iron works in the US and became a training ground for others that followed. They produced so much for early americans, from nails to wrought iron."

"Such a little gem in the middle of Saugus. Neat little museum with actual artifacts and a nice little indoor walk with photos and descriptions. Great size and unique feel to the museum. The actual park is so pretty. Easily accessible with a stroller and a toddler. I wish we were here on a weekend to get a free tour but still super lovely free activity to do."