Things To Do & Places To Eat
Bearskin Neck
Bearskin Neck is a small neck of land that juts out of the town center into Rockport Harbor. The jetty at its tip offers a fine view of the bay and the town of Rockport. What really makes Bearskin Neck so popular, however, are the quaint little studios, shops, and restaurants that line the narrow streets. Stroll Rockport’s charming Main Street and eclectic Bearskin Neck to explore one-of-a-kind shops. Find handcrafted jewelry, fashionable clothing, locally made crafts, specialty household items, imported gifts, scrumptious chocolates and so much more. On one side of the Neck is a famous old red fish house known as Motif #1, said to be America's most-painted building. Resouces: https://essexheritage.org/attractions/bearskin-neck; https://www.rockportusa.com/shopping/
Long Beach
Long Beach, off Thatcher Road, is a long, protected stretch of ocean and sand, backed by a cement retaining wall and lined with summer cottages. From Long Beach you can easily view the twin lighthouses on Thacher’s Island. The Rockport side of this beautiful beach has lifeguards on duty. You can walk from Long Beach and pass a large rocky outcropping onto Cape Hedge Beach. This is a long, beautiful beach walk from either direction. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/
Tours & Charters in Sandy Bay
Offering daily tours and charters in Sandy Bay. And evening sunset cruises. See Seals, Sea-Life & Sea Birds, historic lighthouses, scenic islands, dramatic shorelines, sandy beaches, and sunsets. Private charters are also available. May – October: Boat Departs from T-Wharf, daily at 10 AM, Noon, 2 PM, and 4 PM For information, call 978-758-0571 Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/
Halibut Point State Park
Halibut Point State Park is a uniquely beautiful coastal seascape. Looking seaward on a clear day, the view stretches from Crane Beach in Ipswich to Mount Agamenticus in Maine and the Isles of Shoals off the coast of New Hampshire. Formerly the Babson Farm granite quarry, the park is managed for scenic, historic and conservation purposes by the DCR and the Trustees of Reservations. An adjacent property, Sea Rocks, is owned by the Town of Rockport and open for public use. Here you can explore the park’s trails and tidepools, picnic on its rocky ledges, enjoy its sweeping views, and learn about Cape Ann’s historic granite industry. Most areas of the park and Visitors Center are universally accessible. Assisted-listening devices are available for park tours. The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset for day use only. Daily Parking Fee: $5 MA Vehicle, $6 non-MA Vehicle Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/
Thacher Island
Twin Lighthouses, also known as Cape Ann Light Station, are the only surviving multiple lights on the coasts of the United States. The original 45-foot towers were constructed and lit in 1789; making them among the oldest of America’s lighthouses. The stout 124 foot granite towers seen today replaced the original lights in 1861. The two towers were constructed so that when a ship sites on both towers, they point to true northallowing sailors to check and adjust their compasses. White light flashing five times at 20 second intervals. Thacher Island is located about a mile offshore of Rockport. The island may be viewed from several locations in Rockport and from the Bass Rocks (Atlantic Road) in Gloucester. The Thacher Island Association provides boat service to the island for members of the Association. Kayaking is another popular way to visit the island. See https://thacherisland.org/visit-us/ for shuttle details and reservations. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/
North Shore Kayak Outdoor Center
Visit our North Shore Kayak Outdoor Centers in Rockport and Gloucester for kayaks as well as paddling equipment, bicycle rentals and paddle boat rentals! Guided sea kayak tours leave Bearskin Neck daily from Memorial Day to mid-September on explorations of the beautiful Rockport coast and islands. Kayak rentals are available at our Bass Avenue Gloucester location. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/
Boston
Rockport is just an hour north of Boston, MA and has a commuter line in the center of town, making day trips to the city a breeze. Explore the historical Freedom Trail, visit Fenway Park, dine in the North End, shop on Newbury, take a duck tour, or just spend the day exploring this great city! The Newburyport/Rockport line leaves from Rockport to North Station. Visit https://www.mbta.com/schedules/CR-Newburyport/schedule for train information.
Cape Hedge Beach
Quietly tucked away, Cape Hedge Beach is perfect for the vacationer who wants to get away from it all. Relax in the gentle New England breeze as you take in the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean. Continuing down Route 127a into Rockport, if you turn right at the Turk’s Head Inn you can find your way down to a small parking lot for Cape Hedge Beach. Unless you’re a resident you’ll need a seasonal sticker, and parking here is very limited. However, this is a beautiful beach, not found by many people. There are no services here. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/
Cape Ann Whale Watch
Cape Ann Whale Watch in Gloucester, Massachusetts provides guaranteed whale sightings for every whale watching tour out to Stellwagen Bank, a national marine preserve about 12 miles off the coast of Gloucester deemed one of the "Top 5 Whale Watching Destinations in the World" by the World Wildlife Fund due to the wide variety of whale species whom migrate to the coast of Gloucester, Massachusetts every year to feed on the abundant natural resources. AAA discounts on the adult tickets and reduced rates for seniors, children and military families. Visit https://www.seethewhales.com/ for schedules and ticket info. Resources: https://www.seethewhales.com/
Rockport Music-Shalin Liu Performance Center
For over 30 years Rockport Music/Shalin Liu Performance Center has been committed to one enduring purpose: enriching lives through great music. Located in the scenic seaport village of Rockport, Massachusetts, Rockport Music presents exceptional musical performances and events year round, including the acclaimed Rockport Chamber Music Festival, which hosts over 20 performances in five weeks during June and July each year. With 330 seats, every seat has a spectacular view of the stage. During intermission, enjoy a cocktail and refreshments while taking in the unparalleled view of the ocean from the third floor reception hall. Visit https://rockportmusic.org/shalin-liu-performance-center/ for information on performances and tickets. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/
Front Beach
Front Beach is a beautiful sandy beach on Sandy Bay in Rockport. From warm summer days to bright winter mornings, this beach is enjoyed by visitors and locals year round. The beach is also within an easy walk from the downtown Rockport, and from many of the inns and hotels nearby. Lifeguards are on duty at Front Beach in the summer months.. Another nice thing is that it is near a number of restaurants, eateries and shops, so you can combine some beach time with browsing and dining. Beach Parking There is metered parking along the beach front and private parking lot nearby across Beach Street. In addition, parking is available at no charge in the Blue Gate Parking Lot on Upper Main Street (Rt. 127) with shuttles running from the parking lot to the beach all day long. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/
Dogtown
Walk the Words Dogtown Tours & Historic Rockport Walking Tours offer guided tours of historic Dogtown, Babson Word Rocks and Whale’s Jaw. The 3.5 mile moderate hikes take approximately 2.25 hours. Enjoy a beautiful and educational walk in the Rockport and Gloucester woods and explore historic Dogtown and the Babson Word rocks. We offer 2 tours: On our Dogtown tour we visit downtown Dogtown, one of America’s oldest ghost towns as well as the Babson Word Rocks: boulders inscribed with inspiring words from the Great Depression. This tour is about 3 miles long, and takes approx. 2 hours. On our Whale’s Jaw tour we visit the well-known rock formation Whale’s Jaw and walk the boardwalk through Briar Swamp. This tour begins at Hospital Hill (top of Summit Ave), is about 3 miles long, and takes approx. 2 hours. $15 for adults, $7 for children under 18 For more information please visit our website at walkthewords.com or call Seania at 978-546-8122. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/
Rockport Art Association & Museum
The Rockport Art Association and Museum was founded in 1921. It is a private, charitable, non-profit, cultural organization, dedicated to the advancement and preservation of all phases of the visual arts. We sponsor exhibitions, lectures, demonstrations, workshops and educational programs for children and adults throughout the year. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/arts/rockport-art-association-museum/
Roy Moore Lobster Co
Roy Moore Lobster Company offers freshly cooked lobster in the rough. Enjoy lunch or an early dinner on the waterfront. This small Lobster Shack specializes in boiled lobsters and the best seafood right from the sea! Take your pick of locally caught fresh seafood from this no-frills eatery & enjoy the views from their waterfront picnic benches. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com
Brothers Brew Coffee Shop
Brothers Brew Coffee Shop uses coffee from a micro-roastery that only roasts the highest quality of beans. Along with their freshly brewed coffees and teas, Brothers Brew serve fresh-baked doughnuts, muffins, pastries, and Nisu. Enjoy hearty soups and sandwiches, too, made from scratch with the freshest ingredients and prepared to order. Eat in at the counter or tables, or order to go. Brothers’ Brew Coffee Shop (formerly “The Coffee Shop”) is located at 27 Main St in Rockport. It is now owned and operated by the Brackett family. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com Brothers Brew is Molly and Dan’s favorite coffee shop! We highly recommend their dark sin brew.
Brackett's Oceanview Restaurant
Brackett’s Oceanview Restaurant has opened its doors to its newly renovated space at 25 Main Street in downtown Rockport, Massachusetts. Open for both lunch and dinner, they offer a variety of fresh, delicious cuisine to satisfy any appetite as well as a full bar, complemented by some of the most spectacular water views in Rockport. To make a reservation call (978) 546-2797.
Feather & Wedge
This upscale and modern restaurant specializes in New American cuisine with a seasonal menu that changes daily. Menu offerings are made from locally sourced seafood and vegetables, delicious baked on premises desserts and a full bar (with our renowned rum cocktail, the Hannah Jumper.) Meat and vegetarian entrees are also featured on our menu. Whether you are interested in dining or drinks or both, Feather and Wedge has created a space that guarantees a great evening. Reservations recommended for larger parties. Visit https://featherandwedge.com/ for details. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/restaurants/feather-wedge/
Nate's at Front Beach
Nate’s is a family run business located in downtown Rockport. The dining room and friendly wait staff provides a cozy and comfortable setting for all customers, directly across the street from Front Beach. When the weather’s nice take advantage of our take-out window if you would rather enjoy your meal at the beach, the park next door or in the comfort of your own home or inn. If you are in the mood for clams, scallops, shrimp, haddock, or a special fried lobster plate, Nate’s offers a variety of portioned dinners ranging from personal sized boats to large seafood platter. While specializing in fried seafood, Nate’s at Front Beach also provides a menu that will cater to all customers including burgers, wraps, and salads. Nate’s is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Resouces: https://www.rockportusa.com/restaurants/nate-s-at-front-beach/
My Place by the Sea
Located in the heart of historic Rockport, Massachusetts, My Place by the Sea features award-winning New American cuisine highlighted by fresh local seafood and an unrivaled romantic setting overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. My Place by the Sea is the perfect place for a late lunch or early dinner before catching a show at the Shalin Liu, gather with friends after a stroll down Bearskin Neck, or have an elegant date night with that special someone. Reservations recommended. Visit http://www.myplacebythesea.com/ for details. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/restaurants/my-place-by-the-sea/
Top Dog
Top Dog of Rockport is a truly unique “have to stop” hot dog shop and seafood restaurant located on Bearskin Neck. Top Dog serves up traditional grilled dogs and sausages. If you want to be more daring, take your hot dog eating experience to another level with their limitless combinations of specialty toppings. They offer many side dishes, like chili-cheese fries and more. Top Dog also offers local ‘fresh-off-the-boat’ fried clams and lobster salad rolls Top Dog’s ambience is casual, fun, and completely kid-friendly. Resources: https://www.rockportusa.com/restaurants/top-dog-of-rockport/