The old fishing town of Rockport, north of Boston on Cape Anne, has all the ingredients for a weekend getaway for two. The town centers around the picturesque harbor with its signature “Motif #1” on a wharf at its center — reputed to be the world’s most photographed and painted fishing shack. You’ll see artists’ renditions of it at every season in the local art galleries.
Browsing these and the Rockport Art Association and Museum’s shows is a favorite pastime, and between galleries are shops selling everything from fudge and lobster-themed coffee mugs to smart resort wear and beautifully crafted silver jewelry. The highest concentration of shops — and places to enjoy the local seafood — is along Bearskin Neck, a long point that extends along one side of the harbor to a little park on the site of a former fort. Stop for a cone at The Ice Cream Store or for coffee and a traditional Austrian pastry on the deck at Helmut’s Strudel.
The Atlantic beaches in Rockport are a bit cold for swimming before summer sets in, but spring is a perfect season for long leisurely walks on the beach, or on the shore path that leads to Halibut Point State Park. Stop for picnic makings and have lunch on the ledges overlooking the sea. On a clear day you can see as far as the coast of Maine.
You’ll get even more views from a boat. From T Wharf at the harbor you can take a tour with Loblolly Seal Cruises along the shores of Sandy Bay to see Harbor and Grey seals and seabirds and to sail past two island lighthouses. Gloucester is a short drive away, with whale watching, fishing and nature cruises. The 65-foot Thomas E. Lannon takes passengers for two-hour sails aboard a traditional Gloucester fishing schooner. Or you can go deep sea fishing from Rockport with Islander Private Charters.
Of course the most important part of a weekend for two is choosing the right place to stay. That’s an easy decision in Rockport, where the Emerson Inn has welcomed guests for nearly more than a century. You may not want to do any sightseeing at all once you see the comfortable wicker chairs along the wide verandah overlooking the sea.
Although historic, the hotel has been nicely updated with 21st-century amenities in its bright airy guestrooms. Large windows overlook the sea and, if you’re early risers, the sunrise view is a knock-out. You may want to pull the room-darkening shade, though, as the beds are blissfully comfortable. The large bathtubs feature air massage.
If the evening is warm enough, tables at Pigeon Cove Tavern spill out onto the porch for sundowners or even for dinner. The menu is every bit as enticing as the ocean view, with appetizers like salmon tartare or plump mussels steamed in wine and roasted tomatoes, and entrees like scallops pan-seared in citrus-thyme butter. Seafood and as many of the other ingredients as possible are locally grown and sourced.
In one weekend you won’t be able to do everything Rockport has to offer, but you can always come back in the summer for the beaches.
Read This Next
4 Must-Visit Places in Europe for Movie Lovers
Destinations / Europe
Mar 28, 2024#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedCruising
Mar 12, 2024Grandkids Sail Free, Grandparents Enjoy 10 Percent Savings on Star Clippers
Multigenerational family travel takes center stage on Star Clippers, currently offering a deal that makes it easy for families to board one of its tall clipper ships: 10 percent off fares for grandparents and kids sail for free! The offer is available for residents of North, Central and South America for new bookings on select sailings in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Central America.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Luxury
Mar 11, 2024InterContinental New York Barclay Brings Glamping to Penthouse
Take your family travel up a notch at InterContinental New York Barclay, where not only can you enjoy a luxury hotel stay but you can also glamp in the hotel’s penthouse! The set-up is perfect for girls’ nights, bringing warmth to a cold winter weekend, a child’s slumber party and so much more. A glamping package on offer from InterContinental New York Barclay helps bring it all to life.
Travel Tips
Mar 7, 20245 Tips for a Fun-Filled Staycation Spring Break
Spring break is right around the corner, and that usually means a week of packing in as much fun as possible. But travel isn’t cheap, especially during a peak time like spring break. That leaves family travelers looking for affordable ways to entertain kids and still have an adventure without breaking the bank. Enter the staycation.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Multigenerational
Mar 5, 2024Puro Sound Labs Upgrades PuroQuiet Kids Headphones
Puro Sound Labs, a manufacturer of children’s headphones, recently introduced the new PuroQuiet Plus headphones, following the success of the PuroQuiet, consistently named a top choice for kid’s headphones. The PuroQuiet Plus features a USB-C connector and comes in two new colors — purple and teal. Grab a set for your kiddos before your next round of family travel!
ShareThis