Kayak with Dragonfly

CraneOutdoors: Kayak Adventure on the Castle Neck River

One of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the Massachusetts North Shore is kayaking the placid waters of the Great Marsh—the largest continuous stretch of salt marsh in New England, extending from Cape Ann to New Hampshire. The Castle Neck peninsula on the Crane Estate is a… Read More

Sweet Petunia

Scenic Songs: A Hiking Concert with Sweet Petunia

Calling all hiking enthusiasts and music lovers! The Trustees and Passim are thrilled to collaborate for the 2026 Scenic Songs series, bringing Passim’s renowned folk music to The Trustees’ special places across Massachusetts. Join us on the trail with some of your favorite performing artists for guided… Read More

Cupola

Castle Hill Tour: Cupola with a View

This is our most Instagram-able tour experience and a particular treat for those interested in the architecture of the Great House and its surrounding property. You’ll gain insight into the architectural choices made by David Adler as he designed and built the Great House, the second home the Cranes built… Read More

JAZ COW CONNECTION

Adult Cow Connection at Appleton Farms

Come meet, cuddle, brush, and spend time with our hand‑raised cows at Appleton Farms. The cows’ calm presence—their warm body temperature and steady heart rate—can help slow our own heart rate and encourage the release of oxytocin, our social bonding hormone. Enjoy both the scientifically recognized benefits and the simple… Read More

Antique Telephone

Castle Hill Tour: Behind the Scenes in the Great House

Do you love checking out basements, kitchens, and other out of the way rooms? Our behind-the-scenes tour takes you past the beautiful facade and explores how the house ran when the Cranes were in residence. You’ll learn how a plumbing magnate incorporated the latest technology of the era into his… Read More