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My Cape Ann Map
28
items "Welcome to my personal map of Gloucester and Rockport. The places I actually go—not just the tourist traps, but the spots I’m always telling my friends to check out. Whether you’re chasing the summer sun, the golden autumn light, or the crisp solitu...
Map
Sections
6
Coastal Walks & Harbor Views & Historic Detours
Cape Ann Classics & Coastal Eats
Sips & Sweets by the Sea
Cape Ann Culture & History
The Places I Call Home
Coastal Stays & Hidden Havens
Coastal Walks & Harbor Views & Historic Detours
The heart of Cape Ann. From rugged cliffside trails and peaceful strolls along the docks to the hidden historic gems tucked along our winding roads, these are the best spots to breathe in the salt air and soak up our world-class landscape. Whether yo...
Millbrook Meadow This spot is pure nostalgia for me. I used to bring my boys here when they were little—it’s been the backdrop to so many of our best memories. Located right across from Front Beach, it is an absolute dream of a spot. It’s the perfect...
Millbrook Meadow
Stage Fort Park If you are looking for a quintessential Cape Ann experience, this is it. Stage Fort Park is a historic gem that effortlessly blends deep local roots with all the amenities you need for an unforgettable day out. It is truly a park for ...
Stage Fort Park
James Babson Museum In all my 27 years of living in Rockport, I’ve driven past this spot countless times—and somehow, I had never actually stopped. But I’m including it here because it’s been on my "to-do" list every single year, and it’s finally tim...
James Babson Museum
Cape Ann Classics & Coastal Eats
The taste of a New England summer, served up with a side of salty air. From the iconic, messy-good lobster rolls that define our coast to the classic neighborhood burger joints that feel like home, this is my collection of unpretentious, ‘must eat’ local favorites. And honestly, is there anything better than grabbing a bite and strolling along the water while you eat? Who else gets to do that?
Roy Moore Lobster Company My boys and I have spent their entire childhood and high school years counting on Roy Moore being there every summer. It is truly the backdrop to our favorite memories. When they were very young, they loved seeing the lobste...
Roy Moore Lobster Company
My Place by the Sea Where do I even start with this iconic spot? Located right at the tip of Bearskin Neck, it holds a special place in my heart—I spent a summer hostessing here, and I can tell you, I was in awe every single day and evening. It's eve...
My Place by the Sea Restaurant
First of all I can say that when this little place finally closes it's little doors in the winter my son and I are depressed! Their smashburgers are like nothing we have had - checkout all the choices on their menu and their onion rings - the ONION R... Oh and they use Brioche buns! Another convenience, you can order online and just take your meal as a little picnic or a walk about: they are open 11-7pm. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do! If we had our way they would be open year round!
Little Sister Rockport
Sips & Sweets by the Sea
"Life is too short for boring coffee or a lackluster dessert. This is my curated list of local charm: cozy coffee corners with harbor views, the kind of ice cream that makes your childhood self smile, and boxes of nostalgic salt water taffy. And the ...
This is a year-round go-to; I can't pick a favorite season to visit this old-fashioned coffee, donut, sweets, and sandwich shop! They’ve also expanded into a really cool, comfortable restaurant right on Rockport Harbor—you wouldn't know it’s there un...
Brothers Brew Coffee Shop
Bean & Leaf Cafe Perched right at the top of Bearskin Neck is this wonderful coffee shop that has been a fixture here for as long as I’ve lived in town—27 years and counting. Whether it's the middle of winter with the ocean gales blowing and the ...
Bean & Leaf Cafe
I will be adding more ice cream favorites soon—there are about 3–4 new ones I’m currently scouting out and will be reviewing shortly! But right now, this spot is all about pure, simple nostalgia. It reminds me of the days before ice cream had to be a...
The Ice Cream Store Rockport, MA: Bean & Leaf Café
I LOVE THIS PLACE! When my sons girlfriend comes into town from Michigan this is one of “must go's”. They are newish and just killing it! They have already moved right down the “row” to a slightly larger shop and it's working! If you're in Rockport, Salty's Bagels(https://www.saltysbagels.com/) is an absolute must-visit! Located right next to the train station at Whistlestop Mall, they specialize in small-batch, handcrafted bagels that have that perfect, authentic chew. As... Check out their Instagram for the most up-to-date “flavors” and cream cheese flavors! You can also pre-order: hotplate.com/saltysbagels
Salty's Bagels
Cape Ann Culture & History
"Gloucester and Rockport aren't just pretty faces; they’re places with deep, rugged roots and stories written in granite and tide. From our legendary maritime heritage to the hidden art galleries tucked away in old fishing shacks, this is where you c...
Let me start by saying that my youngest son is now 22. That means the Shalin Liu Performance Center was completed 22–23 years ago—it's easy to keep track of that because, as much as my son hated it (lol), his first-grade class was the very first musi...rockportmusic.org) to see what’s available during your visit, or perhaps make it a destination and attend one of the many genres of performances. Here is the secret of this place—well, there are many, but here is just one: the view! The stage is set with the wide-open ...
Rockport Music-Shalin Liu Performance Center
The Places I Call Home
"These are the spots I return to time and time again—the places that make Gloucester and Rockport feel less like a destination and more like home. From the quiet, misty lookout where I go to clear my head to the cozy corners where the real magic happ...
A place I go to time and time again! It requires a tiny drive (for me) into Pigeon Cove and sits on the border of Rockport and Gloucester (right next to the Lobster Pool(lobsterpool.com)). It is truly one of the most beautiful, peaceful places on earth—an old quarry and former Coast Guard Station. It is so spectacular that I almost can’t put it into words. It is truly God's country—complete with restrooms! (As always, please help k...mass.gov/locations/halibut-point-state-park) for yourself—let me know what you think!
Halibut Point State Park - Mass.gov
I know this might seem like a strange spot to put this incredible treasure, but as I promised in my description of Halibut Point State Park, here is the scoop on The Lobster Pool (lobsterpool.com). This is a BYOB, "eat in the rough" spot featuring lobster, lobster rolls, fried clams, and incredible chowder. There are picnic tables outside on the rocks and seating inside if you prefer. I’ve even seen people bring tablecloths, candles, and all...
The Lobster Pool
This brings me back—way back! My youngest son is 22 now and the oldest is 33. I think they stopped wanting to go around the age of 11, and even then, I had to beg them to go one more time! The start of summer for my boys was always marked by the last...rockportshuttle.com) through Dock Square, with stops for ice cream at The Ice Cream Store and a run with a kite at Front Beach. The summer crowds hadn't arrived yet, but we were ripe with the anticipation of freedom! This little trolley is just perfect, especially for ... How can you beat that!
Explore Rockport's Beaches & Shops | Rockport Shuttle by ...
I’m adding this here because not everything on a vacation or day visit needs to be—or should be—expensive. My son was right! Their coffee is excellent, and you get to make it exactly to your liking with plenty of additional flavor shots. At just $2.1... PLEASE NOTE: This picture is not representative of our Cumberland Farms, Rockport's sits low in a tiny “strip” mall with two other shops and has not been updated in the 27 years I've lived here. ;)
rockport, ma , (978) 546-9180 - Generic Store Page
The Twin to their Inn - The Addison Choate Inn - As promised here why I love this place. First of all it is right downtown in Dock Square, it is owned by the fully funky couple that own and run The Addison Choate Inn and all their products are Americ... Yup they are more expensive, so do not go in looking for a “deal” there are other places for that, this is high quality, carefully curated pieces and products that are not cookie cutter or Social Media driven. They are driven by a return to a love of one of a kind things, things that stand the test of time, items that are surprised and you didn't know you needed or wanted when you walked in. Tell them Victoria from Rockport sent you! (they probably will have no idea who I am, but it will be fun! LOL
Denim Blanket Company
I happened to see this on the news this week and now it is confirmed on Facebook! Enjoy a FREE ride into Rockport or Gloucester on Fridays this summer! The MBTA Commuter Rail is completely free on all lines every Friday during the summer (June through August). You can ride the train to or from Gloucester, MA, and Rockport at no co... That's more money in your pocket to spend on Ice Cream and Lobster Rolls!
Boston Uncovered - Your Complete Guide To Things To Do In Boston
Here is a freebie from me! I used to wish when my boys were young that there was a service like this to make beach days easier and less stressful. Check this out and You're Welcome! Maybe let them know you heard about them from my Benable “The Places I Call Home” list. https://www.travellightcapeann.com/
Travel Light Cape Ann: Baby Gear & Beach Gear Rentals in Cape Ann
I mean really, a taxi by boat?! $15.00 pass is good for a full day! Here's the best part, you are not just going/getting from one place to another i.e. Rocky Neck (The oldest working Art Colony in the Country) you are able to see everything from the water! The City with its Church Towers (Our Lady of Good Voyage) the Fisherman's Church, The Working Inner Harbor and so much more! As a local I love using this service to remind myself of the beauty that I get to call home! I hope you enjoy it as well. https://capeannharbortours.com/boat-tours/water-shuttle/
Gloucester Water Shuttle & Tour Massachusetts | Harbor Tours Inc
This is the “Classic” Choice: Cape Ann Harbor Tours - If you want that quintessential, long-standing local experience, this is the company I would bring my grandmother on! They have been running out of Gloucester since 1969 and I've probably run into... Please visit their website linked below to see all the wonderful Tours you can choose from. Personally the Parade of Sails Tour is simply divine - While the King Eider moves among them, enjoy the graceful vessels parading around Gloucester Harbor before they head to sea for the famous Schooner Fest great race. The Tour of the Lighthouses is... There is something for everyone, just pick one, you can't go wrong. CAPEANNHARBORTOURS.COM
Cape Ann Harbor Tours
Here's a “Freebie” for you. Get your Christmas Gifts now! You can find so many variations on “Candles” here. I have popped in here at the last minute to buy Birthday Gifts, Christmas Gifts, Stocking Stuffers, Heck things I wish I was buying for myself. This tiny Candle “Factory” overlooks the Inner Harbor and could not be more welcoming, not to mention that the fragrances are all natural and made right there! The larger candles in glass containers have such cool names and scenes from Old Fashioned Rockport/Gloucester by the Sea or contemporary scenes. I could “list” everything they have here, but you know what, part of the fun of this shop is finding surp... Fun Fact: You can book a Private Candle Making Session! Great for Brides to be, Baby Shower Fun, Maybe a special gift for your Wedding, and I've seen families on vacation putting their phones down and engaging in some really cool down seaside time. Important: The place is very small and up a few granite steps, there really is no place for a stroller or active toddlers. Please enjoy this gem that you will not find many places!
Rockport Candle
You might wonder why I am adding this to my list: “Less Laundry, More Living” (Troy's motto) Laundry on vacation! Laundry to take home from vacation…WHO WANTS THAT?! I personally use Nor 'East Cleaners and they also service the Employees at my place of business. They could not be more professional. I reached out to the owner Troy Scarborough to see if I could give my List Readers a special deal and of course Troy came through. He is offering Wash/Dry Next Day Service w/15% off for vacationers. Feel free to let him know how you heard about his service. By The Way-Troy handles over 150 VRBO's in the area - that's how good he is and how trusted his services are. Imagine, being on vacation and laundry is NOT an issue and going home with clean washed and folded laundry. YOU'RE WELCOME! Thank you Troy! www.noreastcleaners.com
Nor'East Cleaners | Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaning & Laundry, North ...
Growing up, it didn't matter if we were on vacation or not, we were going to Church. I have added Holy Family Parish to my list for those of you who do the same. For a special treat, attend Mass at St. Anthonys by the Sea, a beautiful stone Chapel only open in the Summer.
Catholic Community of Gloucester & Rockport – Holy Family Parish ...
This Church is just so pretty and is also the site of The Live Nativity for the Christmas Pageant. I'll save that for another List. But even if you are not planning on attending Sunday Service. This is a great FREE piece of history that I know you and your family would enjoy visiting and learning about. Here is the Lore: The September 1814 Raid Under the cover of a thick fog, Bri... When a sentinel spotted the second British barge at dawn, he immediately ran to the Old Sloop's meetinghouse and rang the church bell. The local militia, the Sea Fencibles, quickly gathered and fired on the landing party. In retaliation, the British ... Plan a Visit: - You can view the steeple and the cannonball firsthand, as well as learn about the broader history of the local "Sea Fencibles", by checking out the historical exhibits and planning a trip via the Old Sloop Church website. https://oldsloop.org/history
Congregational Church First UCC
Coastal Stays & Hidden Havens
Whether you're looking for a tucked-away cottage that captures the quiet charm of the North Shore or a place to wake up to the sound of the Atlantic, these are the stays I recommend. There is something here for everyone—from family-friendly retreats ...
Let me start with the SALT WATER POOL OVERLOOKING THE OCEAN! I used to live up the street from the Inn and even worked there part time for a bit in Reservations. When I was pregnant with my youngest. I got a summer pool membership so I could take my ... Also, as you descend down the final stretch of the walk to Back Beach you will be greeted with one of the most spectaular views of the back side of the town and Back Beach in all it's glory! It's worth the effort. If you like you can stop right at Ba...
Emerson Inn By The Sea
Many years ago I used to live behind this eclectic perfect Inn, before the new owners took over, wondering and wishing "someone would take over the property and give it it's crown" FINALLY, that "someone" did. Right downtown on Broadway it is the mos...denimblankets.com that you must visit. I will also link that in my Lists “Places I Call Home” with a description of the coolness they have brought to this shop that is twinning with their Boutique Inn. They do fill up quickly as I found out the hard way; so if you ha...
Addison Choate
Ok, let me start by saying this place was and is needed! Not everyone wants to stay in an expensive Inn or Quaint Boutique Hotel especially those of you with children, even young teens. This is right outside the heart of downtown, but on the Main road leading into town. It's an easy walk on a sidewalk that will accommodate strollers, or slower walking children or adults. It is nestled literally on 5 quiet acres with a fire pit, an indoor pool, (fitness room, if you're into that on vacation) :) and is pet-friendly. It is all on one floor and offers a nice contentental breakfast (not fancy, and self serve). There are two level townhome style rooms to give families a bit of breathing room and standard one room rooms. Many of us in town would book a room for birthday parties for our boys, so they could all stay over and play in the pool for hours, and come back for cake and ice cream, and guess what? Our homes stayed neat and clean! LOL The staff is friendly, and ... The rooms are clean and do the trick. It makes me feel like the Motels our parents used to book for family vacations that did not break the bank, but upleveled with the grounds and fire pit. https://www.rockportinnandsuites
Rockport Inn & Suites
The Sister to the Addison-Choate Inn Rockport Ma - My words not theirs, same owners, same ultra cool vibe, different experience from any you will have anywhere else! I've stayed at The Addison Choate Inn, next stop The Sally Webster Inn (and I live in Rockport!) The Sally Webster Collection: The Sally Webster Collection is a boutique inn offering a modern, stylish take on an antique colonial home in the coastal village of Rockport, Massachusetts. Beautifully renovated, the Sally Webster Collection combines h... sallywebster.com
Sally Webster Inn