Things To Do in Gloucester, Massachusetts
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Gloucester, Massachusetts is a classic New England coastal town with plenty to see and do. From fresh seafood to local history, it’s a great spot for a day trip or weekend getaway. This guide covers the things to do in Gloucester so you can make the most of your visit.
7 seas Whale Watch Cruise
The top attraction in Gloucester is going out on a whale watching tour. The area is a premier spot for whale watching due to its proximity to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. When I went whale watching here, I went out with 7 Seas Whale Watch.
Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House
This house was the summer home of Henry Davis Sleeper, who was one of America’s first professional interior designers. It’s actually a National Historic Landmark. The house is owned by Historic New England and you can tour it.
Hammond Castle Museum
Hammond Castle was the private residence and laboratory of the inventor John Hays Hammond. The castle was built between 1926 and 1929. Visiting can feel a bit like you’re visiting a medieval castle in Europe!
Mass Audubon’s Eastern Point Wildlife Sanctuary
You can view Eastern Point Light and Dog Bar Breakwater Lighthouse easily from this spot. In addition to lighthouses, it’s also a great spot for bird watching. It’s a great spot to spend some time along the coast.
Cape Ann Lighthouse Cruise
If you love New England lighthouses, you can take a lighthouse cruise with Harbor Tours of Cape Ann. On the cruise, you can see six different lighthouses as well as other points of interest. It’s a great way to see all of the lighthouses in the area!
See The Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial
This statue was put up to celebrate the city’s 300th anniversary and honor the lives of its fishmen who were lost at sea. It can be found on the south side of Stacy Boulevard at the edge of Gloucester Harbor. There is a path here along the harbor that you can walk during your visit.
Grab Seafood
Grab some seafood while you’re in town. There are plenty of places to grab seafood, whether you’re looking for a lobster roll or something else. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite, water views while you dine, or a nice sit-down restaurant, Gloucester has you covered.
Go Out On A Chartered Fishing Trip
Gloucester, MA is a great spot for chartered fishing. With experienced captains (including some from Wicked Tuna) and access to prime fishing grounds, it’s the perfect place to land striped bass, tuna, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, a Gloucester fishing charter offers a reliable and exciting day on the water.
Shop In Downtown
There are a lot of unique shops to check out while you’re in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Whether you’re looking to window shop, buy souvenirs, or buy something for family and friends, there are plenty of shops to check out. You can even find official Wicked Tuna merchandise in Gloucester!
Maritime Gloucester
Maritime Gloucester aims to inspire students and visitors to value maritime heritage, marine science, and environmental stewardship through hands-on education and experiences. There are two areas to visit. First, there is the pier which is free and open to the public. There’s also the gallery and aquarium, which requires paid admission.
Grab Breakfast or Lunch At Cape Ann Coffees
This coffee shop has a variety of hot and cold drinks, breakfast sandwiches, baked goods, snacks, soups, and sandwiches for breakfast and lunch. You can grab something to go inside or through the drive-thru or dine inside.
Stay At Beauport Hotel
If you’re looking to stay overnight, consider staying at Beauport Hotel. This waterfront hotel offers luxury hotel rooms and suites. The hotel has a beach, a restaurant, a rooftop pool bar, and more. It’s close to downtown as well, making it a great spot to stay.
