The seaside village of Rockport, Massachusetts dates to colonial America. Located on Cape Ann on the northern end of the Massachusetts Bay, Rockport is a traditional seaside New England town. For years, Rockport was known as a fishing town, across Cape Ann from Gloucester's famous fishing center. The dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean draw artists to some of the coastal cottages in the area. Rockport is part of the greater Boston area.
Halibut Point
On the Atlantic Coast near Rockport lies Halibut Point, located within the 12-acre Halibut Reservation. Halibut Point is a perfect place for a seaside walk along the rocky coastline. Over two miles of trails offer extraordinary views of the ocean. Winds on the shore can be temperamental and strong, so if you visit in fall or winter, be prepared.
Art/Culture
Formed in the 1920s by a group of artists, the Rockport Art Association has 800 members and 250 contributing artists, as of 2010. The Association's gallery on Main Street in Rockport is open to the public. Many of the paintings and photographs shown there depict seaside life and some local imagery. The Association sponsors classes, events and lectures throughout the year.
Boulders of Dogtown
Between Rockport and the neighboring city of Gloucester rest the remnants of a colonial settlement known as Dogtown. Located in rocky woods carved from glacial ice, Dogtown is now a nature reserve. Take a hike through Dogtown and see the enormous boulders in the woods and along the sea. Along the trail lie the Babson Boulders, a series of sayings carved into rocks.
Gloucester
Also on Cape Ann is the famous fishing city of Gloucester, the nation's oldest seaport. Gloucester boasts tour boats, water shows, art galleries, a seaside walk leading out to a lighthouse, gift shops and, of course, a healthy offering of seafood.
Whale Watch
Just a few miles out to sea from Cape Ann is the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. The "bank" is named for a large underwater plateau. The protected area stretches from Cape Ann to Cape Cod, encompassing the width of the Massachusetts Bay. Stellwagen Bank is known as one of the greatest places in the world to whale watch. Whale watch boats leave from nearby Gloucester daily. Dress warmly.
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