Rockport MA
Rockport is potentially the most quintessential coastal New England town there is! Located just past Gloucester, it is one of the best places to spend the day on the Northshore. Rockport is a magnificent spot for art, shopping, seafood, and gorgeous views.
Aptly named “Rockport” for its historical granite quarries, the town separated from Gloucester in 1840 as it grew its reputation for high-grade granite. Rockport is just a 45-minute ride from Boston, and accessible via the Newburyport/Rockport Line of the MBTA Commuter Rail.
This gorgeous coastal community is full of hometown spirit, maritime history, independent shops, and beautiful views for everyone to enjoy.
Groceries and Snacks
Two Little Birds Eatery
Located by Front Beach, Two Little Birds is a nutritious and wholesome beachfront eatery. They are open for breakfast and lunch, and known for their amazing smoothies and smoothie bowls.
Brothers Brew Coffee Shop
Brothers Brew is the perfect spot to caffeinate before exploring the shops and sights of Rockport. Not only do they have plenty of breakfast sandwich options on the menu, they have incredible donuts and pastries!
Bean & Leaf/The Ice Cream Store
Located side by side, this cafe and ice cream shop are a perfect place to stop while in downtown Rockport. Maybe some members of your family like coffee, but others would rather have a sweet treat! There are tables and chairs in the small space between the two, making it a perfect stop for everyone.
Gorgeous Views
Halibut Point State Park
Halibut Point State Park features a beautiful quarry and park, great for an afternoon stroll with a view. If you visit on a clear day, you may be able to see Mount Agamenticus, located 40 miles away in Maine!
Front Beach
Located right near downtown Rockport, Front Beach features incredibly soft sand and incredible views out to sea. The beach is not too large, and has lifeguards on duty in the summer, making it perfect for visiting with your children.
Delicious Eats
Feather and Wedge
Feather and Wedge is a local favorite for sure! With picturesque outdoor seating right off of Bearskin Neck, this spot is perfect for a date night. Feather and Wedge is more upscale than the other nearby eateries, so keep reading if that isn’t your style!
Roy Moore’s Fish Shack
Roy Moore’s is a local pillar for a reason. Enjoy beautiful views over the water while eating some of the freshest seafood that New England has to offer! They have a family-friendly dining room with a and very kind and welcoming staff.
Top Dog
For a more casual eat, any hotdog lover would be remiss to pass by Top Dog. They offer a wide variety of hot dogs with plenty of adventurous options for toppings. Their fun menu, chalkboard walls, and ideal location make it a great stop on your Rockport adventure!
Things to Do
Shopping at Bearskin Neck
There are simply too many shops to feature in one blog! Many are located in the Bearskin Neck area of downtown Rockport. You can buy books at Susie’s Stories, gifts and housewares at Carol Lee’s Cottage, or toys and games at the Happy Whale. Check out the Bearskin Neck website for a list of even more shopping options in the area.
Motif Number 1
You have probably seen this red fishing shack before in your life, whether in person or in an artistic recreation. This well-known symbol of New England maritime life is regarded as the most painted building in the United States! Be sure to take a picture while you are in town.
Biking
There are so many beautiful roads and homes in Rockport that are the best scene from your bike! Whether you have a specific destination in mind or you are just cruising along the ocean, Rockport is an ideal town for a bike ride.
Art Galleries
While exploring Rockport, you are bound to come across dozens of art galleries. Rockport’s art colony is one of the oldest in America, and the town features many events and festivals year-round. The town is not only known for the visual arts, the Shalin Liu Performance Center was built for chamber music and hosts some impressive performing arts. You may even recognize this beautiful theatre from the best picture winning movie CODA!
If you are looking to buy or sell in the Rockport area, contact me today!
