In and Around Cape Ann

Catherine
In and Around Cape Ann

City/town information

Nearby towns you might want to visit.
Gloucester, MA is the country's oldest seaport and is right next door to Rockport. There is a lovely loop to drive or ride that takes you around Cape Ann (just follow Rt. 127 around the cape). Gloucester has some great restaurants too, as well as some must-see historical sites like: Cape Ann Museum: https://www.capeannmuseum.org/ The Cape Ann Museum houses the largest collection of work by native son and renowned marine artist, Fitz Henry Lane, as well as work by other prominent painters and sculptors who lived on, visited or were inspired by Cape Ann. The work of contemporary Cape Ann artists is also collected and exhibited. The permanent collection includes fine and decorative arts and artifacts from the major industries of the area—the fisheries and granite quarrying. Hammond Castle: a modern "castle" built by the eccentric John Hammond, Jr., known as the “Father of Radio Control”, and inventor of sonar and other things. Creativity ran in the family - his father invented the Hammond organ. https://www.hammondcastle.org/ Beauport Sleeper-McCann House - a historic home owned and designed by Henry Davis Sleeper, one of American's first interior designers with clients like Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford. This is a stunning 56-room home with ocean views and themed collections and rooms. https://www.historicnewengland.org/property/beauport-sleeper-mccann-house/
51 locals recommend
Gloucester
51 locals recommend
Gloucester, MA is the country's oldest seaport and is right next door to Rockport. There is a lovely loop to drive or ride that takes you around Cape Ann (just follow Rt. 127 around the cape). Gloucester has some great restaurants too, as well as some must-see historical sites like: Cape Ann Museum: https://www.capeannmuseum.org/ The Cape Ann Museum houses the largest collection of work by native son and renowned marine artist, Fitz Henry Lane, as well as work by other prominent painters and sculptors who lived on, visited or were inspired by Cape Ann. The work of contemporary Cape Ann artists is also collected and exhibited. The permanent collection includes fine and decorative arts and artifacts from the major industries of the area—the fisheries and granite quarrying. Hammond Castle: a modern "castle" built by the eccentric John Hammond, Jr., known as the “Father of Radio Control”, and inventor of sonar and other things. Creativity ran in the family - his father invented the Hammond organ. https://www.hammondcastle.org/ Beauport Sleeper-McCann House - a historic home owned and designed by Henry Davis Sleeper, one of American's first interior designers with clients like Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford. This is a stunning 56-room home with ocean views and themed collections and rooms. https://www.historicnewengland.org/property/beauport-sleeper-mccann-house/
Also part of Cape Ann, Essex is an antique-lovers dream! There are many shops to browse, selling everything from flea-market finds to fine collectibles. Woodman's of Essex also claims to be the inventor of the fried clam, and they certainly sell a lot of them, as well as lobsters, chowder and great onion rings. Farnham's also has great clams and a bit more variety of other offerings and the Village Restaurant is a local staple.
25 locals recommend
Essex
25 locals recommend
Also part of Cape Ann, Essex is an antique-lovers dream! There are many shops to browse, selling everything from flea-market finds to fine collectibles. Woodman's of Essex also claims to be the inventor of the fried clam, and they certainly sell a lot of them, as well as lobsters, chowder and great onion rings. Farnham's also has great clams and a bit more variety of other offerings and the Village Restaurant is a local staple.
Ipswich claims to have more pre-revolutionary war homes than any other town in english-speaking North America, and if you take a stroll through the streets of town, you'll see many houses built in the 1600's and 1700's. The Whipple House is a historic home open to the public. It was built in 1677, is National Historic Landmark owned by the Ipswich museum, and is considered one of the finest examples of “first period” American architecture. Castle Hill is an estate with beautiful grounds and views, gardens and a Tudor mansion built by Richard Crane (of Crane Plumbing) as a summer home. It overlooks lovely Crane Beach and hosts castle tours and musical events during the summer. Some people say that Crane tore down his previous mansion and built the castle during the Great Depression to provide jobs to area workers.
12 locals recommend
Ipswich
12 locals recommend
Ipswich claims to have more pre-revolutionary war homes than any other town in english-speaking North America, and if you take a stroll through the streets of town, you'll see many houses built in the 1600's and 1700's. The Whipple House is a historic home open to the public. It was built in 1677, is National Historic Landmark owned by the Ipswich museum, and is considered one of the finest examples of “first period” American architecture. Castle Hill is an estate with beautiful grounds and views, gardens and a Tudor mansion built by Richard Crane (of Crane Plumbing) as a summer home. It overlooks lovely Crane Beach and hosts castle tours and musical events during the summer. Some people say that Crane tore down his previous mansion and built the castle during the Great Depression to provide jobs to area workers.
"Witch City" - there are witch tours, statues and shops, but Salem is also a lovely seaport and lively place to spend a day.
164 locals recommend
Salem
164 locals recommend
"Witch City" - there are witch tours, statues and shops, but Salem is also a lovely seaport and lively place to spend a day.
There is always something happening in downtown Newburyport, from street festivals to crafts fairs, live music and street performers. Visit the Custom House Museum for history of ships from this area or stroll the High Street to see Newburyport's many beautiful old sea captain's homes. There is also a nice walk along the waterfront of the Merrimack River.
120 locals recommend
Newburyport
120 locals recommend
There is always something happening in downtown Newburyport, from street festivals to crafts fairs, live music and street performers. Visit the Custom House Museum for history of ships from this area or stroll the High Street to see Newburyport's many beautiful old sea captain's homes. There is also a nice walk along the waterfront of the Merrimack River.
Portsmouth, NH is a fun day-trip from Rockport - if you enjoy historical settings, Strawbery Banke is an outdoor history museum located in the South End historic district. It is the oldest neighborhood in New Hampshire to be settled by Europeans, and the earliest neighborhood remaining in the present-day city of Portsmouth.
221 locals recommend
Portsmouth
221 locals recommend
Portsmouth, NH is a fun day-trip from Rockport - if you enjoy historical settings, Strawbery Banke is an outdoor history museum located in the South End historic district. It is the oldest neighborhood in New Hampshire to be settled by Europeans, and the earliest neighborhood remaining in the present-day city of Portsmouth.
Rockport is a quaint seaside town bursting with beaches, scenic views, art galleries, restaurants and shops. Rockport is located approximately 40 miles northeast of Boston at the tip of the Cape Ann peninsula and is accessible by train. Rockport borders Gloucester to its west, and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean in all other directions. Rockport is a historic village that has been known as an art colony for many years. It is the home of Motif#1, often called the most painted building in America, and you will find renderings of it in nearly every shop, restaurant and gallery you visit! Rockport was a "dry town" starting in 1856, when Hannah Jumper and the Hatchet Gang destroyed the town liquor supplies. It remained dry until 2005 - now you can get actual get a drink without having to drive to Gloucester! Today, Rockport is a lovely family-oriented vacation destination, with beaches, galleries, shops and restaurants. There are some historic sites like the quarries at Halibut Point and the Paper House. If you have a sharp eye, you can still see the cannon ball embedded in the steeple of the Congregational Church during the war of 1812. Here is a link to a brief video that highlights some typical Rockport scenes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFOmrl6bYLA
83 locals recommend
Rockport
83 locals recommend
Rockport is a quaint seaside town bursting with beaches, scenic views, art galleries, restaurants and shops. Rockport is located approximately 40 miles northeast of Boston at the tip of the Cape Ann peninsula and is accessible by train. Rockport borders Gloucester to its west, and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean in all other directions. Rockport is a historic village that has been known as an art colony for many years. It is the home of Motif#1, often called the most painted building in America, and you will find renderings of it in nearly every shop, restaurant and gallery you visit! Rockport was a "dry town" starting in 1856, when Hannah Jumper and the Hatchet Gang destroyed the town liquor supplies. It remained dry until 2005 - now you can get actual get a drink without having to drive to Gloucester! Today, Rockport is a lovely family-oriented vacation destination, with beaches, galleries, shops and restaurants. There are some historic sites like the quarries at Halibut Point and the Paper House. If you have a sharp eye, you can still see the cannon ball embedded in the steeple of the Congregational Church during the war of 1812. Here is a link to a brief video that highlights some typical Rockport scenes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFOmrl6bYLA

Within walking distance

Restaurants and other attractions you can walk to from Harbor Place.
Great for your morning buzz or lavender lemonade 12 Bearskin Neck, Rockport
25 locals recommend
Bean & Leaf Cafe
12 Bearskin Neck
25 locals recommend
Great for your morning buzz or lavender lemonade 12 Bearskin Neck, Rockport
Local coffee house with great views and excellent donuts! 27 Main St, Rockport
29 locals recommend
Brothers Brew Coffee Shop
27 Main St
29 locals recommend
Local coffee house with great views and excellent donuts! 27 Main St, Rockport
Good for breakfast and lunch 15 Mt Pleasant St, Rockport
14 locals recommend
The Red Skiff
15 Mt Pleasant St
14 locals recommend
Good for breakfast and lunch 15 Mt Pleasant St, Rockport
Gourmet grocery close to Harbor Place, and the closest place to pick up a bottle of wine! They specialize in local brews, organic wines and locally-sourced cheeses and treats. 35B Bearskin Neck, Rockport
9 locals recommend
Sea & Cellar
35B Dock Square
9 locals recommend
Gourmet grocery close to Harbor Place, and the closest place to pick up a bottle of wine! They specialize in local brews, organic wines and locally-sourced cheeses and treats. 35B Bearskin Neck, Rockport
Good for lunch and dinner - and right next door! Unfortunately, they are often closed due to staffing issues. 7 Tuna Wharf, Rockport
11 locals recommend
7th Wave Restaurant
7 Tuna Wharf
11 locals recommend
Good for lunch and dinner - and right next door! Unfortunately, they are often closed due to staffing issues. 7 Tuna Wharf, Rockport
THE place to go for lobster in Rockport 39 Bearskin Neck, Rockport
45 locals recommend
Roy Moore Lobster Co
39 Bearskin Neck
45 locals recommend
THE place to go for lobster in Rockport 39 Bearskin Neck, Rockport
Nice little sandwich shop, good for takeout too 27 Mt Pleasant St, Rockport
11 locals recommend
Hula Moon
27 Pleasant Street
11 locals recommend
Nice little sandwich shop, good for takeout too 27 Mt Pleasant St, Rockport
Rockport's most elegant restaurant - pricey but good! 68 Bearskin Neck, Rockport
44 locals recommend
My Place by the Sea
68 Bearskin Neck
44 locals recommend
Rockport's most elegant restaurant - pricey but good! 68 Bearskin Neck, Rockport
Another gourmet food shop that also carries some nice kitchen ware. 5 Dock Square, Rockport
11 locals recommend
Lula's Pantry
5 Dock Square
11 locals recommend
Another gourmet food shop that also carries some nice kitchen ware. 5 Dock Square, Rockport
Takeout burgers and Greek food. 32 Bearskin Neck, Rockport
8 locals recommend
Bearskin Neck Leathers
7 Old Harbor Rd
8 locals recommend
Takeout burgers and Greek food. 32 Bearskin Neck, Rockport
Hot dogs served any way you can imagine, plus fried seafood and quesadillas. 2 Doyle Cove Rd., Rockport
16 locals recommend
Top Dog
2 Doyle Cove Rd
16 locals recommend
Hot dogs served any way you can imagine, plus fried seafood and quesadillas. 2 Doyle Cove Rd., Rockport
Good Hot and Sour soup; other favorites include egg drop soup, spicy Thai shrimp soup, family style eggplant, and garlic shrimp. 11 Railroad Ave., Rockport
Hong Kong Kitchen
13 Railroad Ave
Good Hot and Sour soup; other favorites include egg drop soup, spicy Thai shrimp soup, family style eggplant, and garlic shrimp. 11 Railroad Ave., Rockport
Creative little breakfast and lunch spot that also has nice juices and smoothies. 18 Beach St., Rockport
7 locals recommend
two little birds eatery
18 Beach St
7 locals recommend
Creative little breakfast and lunch spot that also has nice juices and smoothies. 18 Beach St., Rockport
Hours: 10 am to 3 pm Tuesday - Sunday (and open friday nights from 7 to 9 with live music and thematic dinner. ) Live music daily from 12 - 2. Eat-in or take out. 17 Railroad Ave., Rockport
8 locals recommend
Whale's Jaw Cafe
17 Railroad Avenue
8 locals recommend
Hours: 10 am to 3 pm Tuesday - Sunday (and open friday nights from 7 to 9 with live music and thematic dinner. ) Live music daily from 12 - 2. Eat-in or take out. 17 Railroad Ave., Rockport
Local favorite - "Feather" and "Wedge" are granite cutting terms. 5 Main St., Rockport
46 locals recommend
Feather & Wedge
5 Main St
46 locals recommend
Local favorite - "Feather" and "Wedge" are granite cutting terms. 5 Main St., Rockport
Fabulous coffee and baked goods. Only open Fri - Sun. And ok, it's a bit of a long walk. 1 Whistlestop Mall, Rockport
Mayflour (shop location) formerly blume
162 Whistlestop Mall
Fabulous coffee and baked goods. Only open Fri - Sun. And ok, it's a bit of a long walk. 1 Whistlestop Mall, Rockport
Nice local restaurant with many seafood dishes and some Caribbean flair.
Fleur Cuisine Harborside - Rockport
Nice local restaurant with many seafood dishes and some Caribbean flair.
Rent a bike or kayak or take a kayak tour right from Bearskin Neck! Mention that you are in Cathy's AirBnB for a 10% discount! 9 Tuna Wharf, Rockport
19 locals recommend
North Shore Kayak Outdoor Center
9 Tuna Wharf
19 locals recommend
Rent a bike or kayak or take a kayak tour right from Bearskin Neck! Mention that you are in Cathy's AirBnB for a 10% discount! 9 Tuna Wharf, Rockport

Restaurants and bars in Gloucester

Restaurants and bars in nearby Gloucester.
83 Bass Ave, GLOUCESTER - Diner-type breakfast, lunch and dinner spot.
14 locals recommend
Charlie's Place
83 Bass Ave
14 locals recommend
83 Bass Ave, GLOUCESTER - Diner-type breakfast, lunch and dinner spot.
51 Rocky Neck Ave, GLOUCESTER - Nice dining on a large deck over Gloucester Harbor. Sometimes has a long wait.
28 locals recommend
The Studio
51 Rocky Neck Ave
28 locals recommend
51 Rocky Neck Ave, GLOUCESTER - Nice dining on a large deck over Gloucester Harbor. Sometimes has a long wait.
118 Main St, Gloucester - Elegant eatery in downtown Gloucester.
47 locals recommend
Franklin Cafe Cape Ann
118 Main St
47 locals recommend
118 Main St, Gloucester - Elegant eatery in downtown Gloucester.
133 Washington St, Gloucester - Local favorite with a Portuguese flavor.
22 locals recommend
Azorean Restaurant & Bar
133 Washington St
22 locals recommend
133 Washington St, Gloucester - Local favorite with a Portuguese flavor.
It's not really on the harbor, but they do have a nice raw bar and great shrimp cocktail! 64 Main St., Gloucester
Trio Restaurant & Bar
64 Main St
It's not really on the harbor, but they do have a nice raw bar and great shrimp cocktail! 64 Main St., Gloucester
Dine indoors or out at this Gloucester favorite. Live music on weekends. 63 Rogers St., Gloucester
17 locals recommend
Blue Collar Lobster Co at The Gloucester House Restaurant
63 Rogers St
17 locals recommend
Dine indoors or out at this Gloucester favorite. Live music on weekends. 63 Rogers St., Gloucester
This restaurant is as close to the "restaurant scene" as we get in Gloucester! 25 Rogers St., Gloucester
50 locals recommend
Minglewood Harborside
25 Rogers St
50 locals recommend
This restaurant is as close to the "restaurant scene" as we get in Gloucester! 25 Rogers St., Gloucester
Dine in or out at this lovely small restaurant with a Mediterranean flavor. 25 Western Ave., Gloucester
10 locals recommend
Yella on the Water
25 Western Ave
10 locals recommend
Dine in or out at this lovely small restaurant with a Mediterranean flavor. 25 Western Ave., Gloucester
For when you're craving a curry or Pad Thai. Their curries are very good, the Pad Thai is not as flavorful as some. 25 Rogers St., Gloucester
7 locals recommend
Thai Choice Restaurant
272 Main St
7 locals recommend
For when you're craving a curry or Pad Thai. Their curries are very good, the Pad Thai is not as flavorful as some. 25 Rogers St., Gloucester
Upscale Chinese in Gloucester. Eat in or take out. 4 Rogers St., Gloucester
Horizon Chinese Restaurant
4 Rogers St
Upscale Chinese in Gloucester. Eat in or take out. 4 Rogers St., Gloucester
Middle Eastern sandwiches and wraps. 338 Main St., Gloucester
Markouk Bread
338 Main St
Middle Eastern sandwiches and wraps. 338 Main St., Gloucester
Nice coffee ship that has baked goods and sandwiches. 86 Bass Ave., Gloucester
7 locals recommend
Cape Ann Coffees
86 Bass Ave
7 locals recommend
Nice coffee ship that has baked goods and sandwiches. 86 Bass Ave., Gloucester
Lots of people ask about this place, so I am including it... was made famous in the movie "The Perfect Storm". Somewhat of a dive, but less decrepit than it used to be. A Gloucester townie hang out. 334 Main St., Gloucester
8 locals recommend
Crow's Nest
334 Main St
8 locals recommend
Lots of people ask about this place, so I am including it... was made famous in the movie "The Perfect Storm". Somewhat of a dive, but less decrepit than it used to be. A Gloucester townie hang out. 334 Main St., Gloucester
Nice deli on way in or out of town with wraps, subs and soups. Take out only. Special price on lobster rolls on Thursdays and Fridays. 71 Eastern Ave, Gloucester
Jeff's Variety
71 Eastern Ave
Nice deli on way in or out of town with wraps, subs and soups. Take out only. Special price on lobster rolls on Thursdays and Fridays. 71 Eastern Ave, Gloucester
Wide selection of salads, along with pizza, calzones, subs, pasta, roast beef sandwiches, plus seafood plates, boxes and rolls. Delivery available. 218 Main St., Gloucester
Kings Famous Roast Beef Pizza & Seafood
218 Main Street
Wide selection of salads, along with pizza, calzones, subs, pasta, roast beef sandwiches, plus seafood plates, boxes and rolls. Delivery available. 218 Main St., Gloucester
Fun, friendly atmosphere and satisfying meals. They also serve very good breakfasts. 178 Washington St., Gloucester
19 locals recommend
George's Coffee Shop
178 Washington St
19 locals recommend
Fun, friendly atmosphere and satisfying meals. They also serve very good breakfasts. 178 Washington St., Gloucester
New restaurant in Gloucester, with traditional New England fare and influences from Southern California and island cuisine. 31 Harbor Loop, Gloucester
Decklyn's
31 Harbor Loop
New restaurant in Gloucester, with traditional New England fare and influences from Southern California and island cuisine. 31 Harbor Loop, Gloucester
Chic dining - delicious seafood and nice wine list. "Bar bites" menu from 4-5 pm includes specials and $1 oysters. 2 Main St., Gloucester.
43 locals recommend
Tonno Restaurant
2 Main St
43 locals recommend
Chic dining - delicious seafood and nice wine list. "Bar bites" menu from 4-5 pm includes specials and $1 oysters. 2 Main St., Gloucester.
Coffee and cocktails in a lively setting with live music and a fun vibe. 3 Main St., Gloucester
14 locals recommend
Drift
3 Main St
14 locals recommend
Coffee and cocktails in a lively setting with live music and a fun vibe. 3 Main St., Gloucester
Fun pub with great wings and grilled cheese sandwiches. 242 Main St., Gloucester
8 locals recommend
Stones Pub & Eatery
242 Main St
8 locals recommend
Fun pub with great wings and grilled cheese sandwiches. 242 Main St., Gloucester
Elegant dining on the harbor. Located in the Beauport Hotel, known for its excellent service and atmosphere. 55 Commercial St., Gloucester
8 locals recommend
1606 Restaurant & Bar
55 Commercial St
8 locals recommend
Elegant dining on the harbor. Located in the Beauport Hotel, known for its excellent service and atmosphere. 55 Commercial St., Gloucester
This new restaurant is getting rave reviews. It's in a great location on the harbor , lively ambiance and excellent (if expensive) food and service.
Oak to Ember
This new restaurant is getting rave reviews. It's in a great location on the harbor , lively ambiance and excellent (if expensive) food and service.
Fun wine bar and gallery on lovely Rocky Neck in Gloucester. Park in the parking lot right after turning onto Rocky Neck Ave. and enjoy a stroll along the Neck past galleries and shops.
Salted Cod Arthouse
Fun wine bar and gallery on lovely Rocky Neck in Gloucester. Park in the parking lot right after turning onto Rocky Neck Ave. and enjoy a stroll along the Neck past galleries and shops.
Newly reopened in 2023 by Boston chef Barbara Lynch. Reviews indicate good food but also complain about startup pains typical of a new restaurant.
12 locals recommend
Rudder Restaurant
73 Rocky Neck Ave
12 locals recommend
Newly reopened in 2023 by Boston chef Barbara Lynch. Reviews indicate good food but also complain about startup pains typical of a new restaurant.
Wonderful Italian pastries and espresso. Enjoyed by visitors and locals alike!
14 locals recommend
Caffe Sicilia
40 Main St
14 locals recommend
Wonderful Italian pastries and espresso. Enjoyed by visitors and locals alike!

Breakfast places in Gloucester and Ipswich

Eggs, bacon, pancakes, French toast, sweet rolls... whatever floats your boat!
66 E Main St,, GLOUCESTER - Small breakfast place with creative omelets as well as standard, well-prepared breakfast fare.
20 locals recommend
Zeke's Place
66 E Main St
20 locals recommend
66 E Main St,, GLOUCESTER - Small breakfast place with creative omelets as well as standard, well-prepared breakfast fare.
391 Gloucester Crossing Rd , GLOUCESTER - If you are jonesing for your Starbucks coffee, this is the only one you'll find on Cape Ann!
202 locals recommend
Starbucks
1380 Massachusetts Ave
202 locals recommend
391 Gloucester Crossing Rd , GLOUCESTER - If you are jonesing for your Starbucks coffee, this is the only one you'll find on Cape Ann!
103 Eastern Ave, GLOUCESTER - The Dunkin's in Rockport is no more - if you gotta have Dunkin's coffee, this is the closest one.
Dunkin'
3 Lexington Ave
103 Eastern Ave, GLOUCESTER - The Dunkin's in Rockport is no more - if you gotta have Dunkin's coffee, this is the closest one.
Nice breakfast selections in a homey and cozy setting.
Mom's Kitchen
29 Commercial Street
Nice breakfast selections in a homey and cozy setting.
It's not fancy, but it's definitely our favorite place for breakfast! They also serve lunch and dinner. 178 Washington St., Gloucester.
19 locals recommend
George's Coffee Shop
178 Washington St
19 locals recommend
It's not fancy, but it's definitely our favorite place for breakfast! They also serve lunch and dinner. 178 Washington St., Gloucester.
IPSWICH - Great place for breakfast!
Ipswich Bed & Breakfast
2 East St
IPSWICH - Great place for breakfast!
Great place for breakfast or lunch. Food is fresh and nicely prepared. 0 Central Street, Ipswich
12 locals recommend
Heart and Soul Cafe
0 Central St
12 locals recommend
Great place for breakfast or lunch. Food is fresh and nicely prepared. 0 Central Street, Ipswich
Fun local coffee showp with delicious pastries from A & J King Artisan Bakers in Salem and rotating art displays from local artists. 40 Market St, Ipswich
19 locals recommend
Zumi’s Espresso
40 Market St
19 locals recommend
Fun local coffee showp with delicious pastries from A & J King Artisan Bakers in Salem and rotating art displays from local artists. 40 Market St, Ipswich
Nice laid back family-owned coffee house with delicious pastries and fresh-brewed coffee. 146 Main St., Gloucester
10 locals recommend
Lone Gull Coffee House
146 Main St
10 locals recommend
Nice laid back family-owned coffee house with delicious pastries and fresh-brewed coffee. 146 Main St., Gloucester

Sightseeing

Nearby attractions that you might be interested in visiting.
Hammond was incredibly inventive and eccentric (he invented sonar and built a walled garden to keep his cats safe). Highly recommend the castle tour.
55 locals recommend
Hammond Castle Museum
80 Hesperus Avenue
55 locals recommend
Hammond was incredibly inventive and eccentric (he invented sonar and built a walled garden to keep his cats safe). Highly recommend the castle tour.
This 56-room historic house is filled with wonderful collections and built by Henry Davis Sleeper, one of America’s first professional interior designers.
23 locals recommend
Historic New England Beauport Sleeper--McCann House
75 Eastern Point Blvd
23 locals recommend
This 56-room historic house is filled with wonderful collections and built by Henry Davis Sleeper, one of America’s first professional interior designers.
This historic home was built in 1677 and is a great example of first-period American architecture.
John Whipple House
1 S Main St
This historic home was built in 1677 and is a great example of first-period American architecture.
Lovely Tudor mansion built as a summer home by Richard Crane of Crane Plumbing in Chicago. If the back area looks familiar, it's because some scenes from "Witches of Eastwick" were filmed there.
43 locals recommend
Castle Hill on the Crane Estate
290 Argilla Rd
43 locals recommend
Lovely Tudor mansion built as a summer home by Richard Crane of Crane Plumbing in Chicago. If the back area looks familiar, it's because some scenes from "Witches of Eastwick" were filmed there.
The house and everything in it is constructed of paper! It doesn't take long to visit it (and it's free) and sort of a hoot.
9 locals recommend
Paper House
52 Pigeon Hill St
9 locals recommend
The house and everything in it is constructed of paper! It doesn't take long to visit it (and it's free) and sort of a hoot.
Said to be the "most painted building in America"... and you can see it from Tuna Wharf! You will likely see a picture or painting of the Motif in nearly every shop and restaurant on Bearskin Neck..it's a game I play with myself....how many can I spot in one day!
34 locals recommend
Motif #1
Bradley Wharf
34 locals recommend
Said to be the "most painted building in America"... and you can see it from Tuna Wharf! You will likely see a picture or painting of the Motif in nearly every shop and restaurant on Bearskin Neck..it's a game I play with myself....how many can I spot in one day!
Visit the twin lights by boat launch on Wednesdays and Saturdays June through August. Visit the Thacher Island Association website to make a reservation, or kayak out to the island on your own or with a tour from North Shore Adventure. A $5 donation to the association that maintains the island is suggested for each island visitor.
9 locals recommend
Thacher Island
9 locals recommend
Visit the twin lights by boat launch on Wednesdays and Saturdays June through August. Visit the Thacher Island Association website to make a reservation, or kayak out to the island on your own or with a tour from North Shore Adventure. A $5 donation to the association that maintains the island is suggested for each island visitor.
Visit this small island by kayak or the Thacher Island Launch boat.
Straitsmouth Island Light Station
Visit this small island by kayak or the Thacher Island Launch boat.
Tour the Harbor Loop to see the Fitz Henry Lane House, Maritime Gloucester and (sometimes) sail boats that are docked at the Coast Guard station.
Harbor Loop
Harbor Loop
Tour the Harbor Loop to see the Fitz Henry Lane House, Maritime Gloucester and (sometimes) sail boats that are docked at the Coast Guard station.
Small boat tours take you to see the whales (mostly humpbacks) that summer off of Cape Ann.
41 locals recommend
Cape Ann Whale Watch
415 Main St
41 locals recommend
Small boat tours take you to see the whales (mostly humpbacks) that summer off of Cape Ann.
This 65 foot schooner sails out of Gloucester Harbor for a 2-hour tour of the harbor and coastline.
15 locals recommend
Schooner Thomas E. Lannon
63 Rogers St
15 locals recommend
This 65 foot schooner sails out of Gloucester Harbor for a 2-hour tour of the harbor and coastline.
This self-guided 1.2 mile walk has 42 granite markers that describe Gloucester's history, heritage, artists and culture.
10 locals recommend
Gloucester HarborWalk
9 Dale Avenue
10 locals recommend
This self-guided 1.2 mile walk has 42 granite markers that describe Gloucester's history, heritage, artists and culture.
John Singer Sargent helped found this museum house in one of Gloucester's post-revolutionary historic houses. Open weekends from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.
Sargent House Museum
49 Middle St
John Singer Sargent helped found this museum house in one of Gloucester's post-revolutionary historic houses. Open weekends from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.
"The coolest guys in town"... this is where the Gloucester fishing fleet gets the ice to keep their catch fresh. Stop by for a free history talk in their gift shop.
Cape Pond Ice
104 Commercial St
"The coolest guys in town"... this is where the Gloucester fishing fleet gets the ice to keep their catch fresh. Stop by for a free history talk in their gift shop.
Strawbery Banke is a lovely outdoor museum showcasing homes from Portsmouth's earliest settlers.
111 locals recommend
Strawbery Banke Museum
14 Hancock St
111 locals recommend
Strawbery Banke is a lovely outdoor museum showcasing homes from Portsmouth's earliest settlers.
This iconic statue is along Stacy Boulevard in Gloucester, a seaside walkway with memorials and lovely flower beds. Next to the statue is a listing of the fisherman lost and sea over the years (including the folks memorialized in "The Perfect Storm". Also look for the Gloucester Fisherman's Wive's Memorial, a bit further along the boulevard. Out in the harbor, you can see the greasy pole - a greased phone pole used for the annual Greasy Pole competition.
29 locals recommend
Gloucester Fishermen's Wives Memorial
107 Western Ave
29 locals recommend
This iconic statue is along Stacy Boulevard in Gloucester, a seaside walkway with memorials and lovely flower beds. Next to the statue is a listing of the fisherman lost and sea over the years (including the folks memorialized in "The Perfect Storm". Also look for the Gloucester Fisherman's Wive's Memorial, a bit further along the boulevard. Out in the harbor, you can see the greasy pole - a greased phone pole used for the annual Greasy Pole competition.
Stacy Boulevard is a walkway along outer Gloucester Harbor. It has some memorial statues and beautiful flower beds. It makes for a nice stroll. At the far end is Stage Fort Park, also a nice place to stroll and picnic.
9 locals recommend
Stacy Boulevard
Stacy Boulevard
9 locals recommend
Stacy Boulevard is a walkway along outer Gloucester Harbor. It has some memorial statues and beautiful flower beds. It makes for a nice stroll. At the far end is Stage Fort Park, also a nice place to stroll and picnic.
Rocky Neck is an artist's haven, teeming with galleries and great views of Gloucester Harbor. If you're lucky, you'll spot some painters out capturing the scenic views.
27 locals recommend
Rocky Neck
27 locals recommend
Rocky Neck is an artist's haven, teeming with galleries and great views of Gloucester Harbor. If you're lucky, you'll spot some painters out capturing the scenic views.
Essex produced more wooden fishing schooners between 1668 and the twentieth century than anywhere else in America This is a nice little museum highlighting Essex's glory days as a ship-building center.
Essex Shipbuilding Museum station
Essex produced more wooden fishing schooners between 1668 and the twentieth century than anywhere else in America This is a nice little museum highlighting Essex's glory days as a ship-building center.
A fun stop any season of the year. Pick your own fruits including apples and pumpkins (in season of course), local cheeses, fabulous cider donuts, farm animal petting area, fresh vegetables, ice cream and their own wine and cider.
30 locals recommend
Russell Orchards
30 locals recommend
A fun stop any season of the year. Pick your own fruits including apples and pumpkins (in season of course), local cheeses, fabulous cider donuts, farm animal petting area, fresh vegetables, ice cream and their own wine and cider.
Take a sail trip on the Pinky Schooner Ardelle , a 58 foot, 49 locally-built passenger sailing vessel.
9 locals recommend
Schooner Adventure
1-99 State Fish Pier
9 locals recommend
Take a sail trip on the Pinky Schooner Ardelle , a 58 foot, 49 locally-built passenger sailing vessel.

Seafood restaurants

Coastal places like Cape Ann have excellent seafood - here are some of our favorite places
Farnham's gives Woodman's a run for their money and has the advantage of being on a marsh - look for the osprey's who nest in the area. 88 Eastern Ave., Essex
23 locals recommend
J.T. Farnham's
88 Eastern Ave
23 locals recommend
Farnham's gives Woodman's a run for their money and has the advantage of being on a marsh - look for the osprey's who nest in the area. 88 Eastern Ave., Essex
Woodman's claims to be the inventor of the fried clam, and they certainly sell a lot of them! They also have a lobster bake and other fried favorites. 121 Main St., Essex
37 locals recommend
Woodman's of Essex
119 Main St
37 locals recommend
Woodman's claims to be the inventor of the fried clam, and they certainly sell a lot of them! They also have a lobster bake and other fried favorites. 121 Main St., Essex
Long-time local favorite restaurant, serving both seafood and "land lubber" meals. 55 Main St., Essex
Village Restaurant
55 Main St
Long-time local favorite restaurant, serving both seafood and "land lubber" meals. 55 Main St., Essex
Tonno's Bar Bites from 4-5:30 are the best deal in town, with $1 oysters and other great seafood specialties. The food is fresh, beautifully served and the wait staff is lively and friendly.
43 locals recommend
Tonno Restaurant
2 Main St
43 locals recommend
Tonno's Bar Bites from 4-5:30 are the best deal in town, with $1 oysters and other great seafood specialties. The food is fresh, beautifully served and the wait staff is lively and friendly.
Nice variety of well-prepared seafood selections. I find the atmosphere there is a bit sterile, but the food is good. 226 Washington St., Gloucester
Salt Water Grille
226 Washington Street
Nice variety of well-prepared seafood selections. I find the atmosphere there is a bit sterile, but the food is good. 226 Washington St., Gloucester
Favorite of many locals... there is usually a long line out the door. They have a secret batter that makes their clams really crisp. 246 High St., Ipswich
17 locals recommend
Clam Box of Ipswich
246 High St
17 locals recommend
Favorite of many locals... there is usually a long line out the door. They have a secret batter that makes their clams really crisp. 246 High St., Ipswich
New England seafood served seaside. 329 Granite St., Rockport
44 locals recommend
The Lobster Pool
329 Granite St
44 locals recommend
New England seafood served seaside. 329 Granite St., Rockport
Don't let the name put you off... this is a fun location with good food and drinks. Their lobsta roll is delicious.
35 locals recommend
Lobsta Land Restaurant
84 Causeway St
35 locals recommend
Don't let the name put you off... this is a fun location with good food and drinks. Their lobsta roll is delicious.

Pizza

Sometimes you just want pizza.
Upscale pizza in a Gloucester bistro. 36 Main St., Gloucester
39 locals recommend
Short & Main
36 Main St
39 locals recommend
Upscale pizza in a Gloucester bistro. 36 Main St., Gloucester
This is one of our favorite pizza places. They also have a lobster roll special ($13.95) on Tuesdays. 147 Thacher Rd., Gloucester
15 locals recommend
Surfside Subs
147 Thatcher Rd
15 locals recommend
This is one of our favorite pizza places. They also have a lobster roll special ($13.95) on Tuesdays. 147 Thacher Rd., Gloucester
Great pizza and subs as well as calzones and greek pies. 273 Main St., Gloucester
Leonardo's Pizza
273 Main Street
Great pizza and subs as well as calzones and greek pies. 273 Main St., Gloucester
Excellent Greek pizza and Italian dishes within walking distance. 19 Broadway, Rockport
14 locals recommend
Rockport House of Pizza
19 Broadway
14 locals recommend
Excellent Greek pizza and Italian dishes within walking distance. 19 Broadway, Rockport
Thin crust pizza in Gloucester.
Delaney's Pizza
332 Main Street
Thin crust pizza in Gloucester.
Good for a quick slice of pizza. 56 Washington St., Gloucester
Sebastian's Pizza
56 Washington St
Good for a quick slice of pizza. 56 Washington St., Gloucester
Wonderful thin crust pizza with creative toppings. Gluten-free menu available.
Bravo By The Sea, Gloucester
Wonderful thin crust pizza with creative toppings. Gluten-free menu available.