Gloucester’s Gems: 15 Captivating Cape Ann Attractions

April 16, 2024 / A Local Favorite, Good to Know, Things to Do & See

Explore the world of scenic splendors and fascinating fables! From the daring feats at St. Peter’s Greasy Pole Contest to the fairytale appeal of the Hammond Castle Museum, allow Gloucester to enchant you.

Man at the Wheel

Photo credit: John Abisamra

Man at the Wheel

Marvel at the iconic Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial, a tribute to the city’s seafaring history with its timeless inscription. You can find the statue atop a five-foot granite base located on the south side of Stacy Boulevard, at the edge of Gloucester Harbor.
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Dicover Gloucester on water Front

Gloucester’s Working Waterfront

Dive into the bustling maritime scene, from fishing vessels to schooner sails at America’s oldest seaport. While you’re here, don’t miss the interactive exhibits at Maritime Gloucester’s Science Education Center.

Model of Gloucester's working waterfront at the Cape Ann Museum

Cape Ann Museum

Immerse in Cape Ann’s rich maritime heritage and artistic legacy at the captivating Cape Ann Museum, where history comes alive. Don’t miss the museum’s rotating exhibitions, seasonal events, school vacation week programming, and more.

Maritime Gloucester

Maritime Gloucester

Explore Gloucester’s seafaring past at Maritime Gloucester, featuring interactive exhibits and insights into the city’s maritime heritage. Educational experiences at Maritime Gloucester include touch tanks with marine life from local waters, a plankton lab, and more.

Stacy Boulevard tulips

Photo credit: Michelle Williams

Stacy Boulevard Garden Displays

Walk along Gloucester’s picturesque waterfront and take in the vibrant blooms courtesy of Generous Gardeners along the picturesque boulevard from May to October.

Hammond Castle

Hammond Castle Museum

Step into a fairytale world at this architectural marvel overlooking the water, blending medieval and Gothic styles. Created by art connoisseur, John Hays Hammond, Jr., Hammond Castle offers impressive architectural achievements, unique works of art, and events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Exterior of the Beauport Sleeper McCann House

Photo credit: Historic New England

Beauport, Sleeper McCann Museum

Enjoy the exquisite summer home of design maestro Henry Davis Sleeper, a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts. This Historic New England property is a must-see for art and architecture lovers and history buffs alike.
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Dogtown boulder

Dogtown Common

Embark on a scenic hike through historic trails and glean wisdom from Babson’s boulders etched with inspirational messages. Trails may be difficult to follow, so we recommend downloading a map before you go.

Gloucester HarborWalk Gloucester MA

Harborwalk

Explore Gloucester’s maritime history and scenic beauty along the waterfront pathway offering captivating views and cultural insights, including St. Peter’s Square, Fitz Henry Lane, and the forty-two Harborwalk granite posts located downtown.

Eastern Point Lighthouse

Eastern Point Lighthouse (and Dogbar)

Behold the guiding light of Gloucester harbor, a beacon of maritime history since 1832. DogBar Breakwater is a 2,250′ spectacular granite jetty that makes for a breathtaking walk along the ocean.
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Good Harbor Beach. Photo by John Abisamra

Photo credit: John Abisamra

Good Harbor Beach at Sunrise

Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise walk, framed by the beauty of Salt Island and Thacher Island. Good Harbor Beach features soft sand excellent for walking, body surfing, and volleyball, plus the ability to walk out to Salt Island during low tide. Note: Non-resident beach parking reservations are available online.
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The Greasy Pole at Saint Peter's Fiesta, Discover Gloucester, MA

Photo credit: Jeffrey M. Stockman

St. Peter’s Greasy Pole Contest

Witness the daring spectacle as participants vie to conquer the slippery pole and claim victory during St. Peter’s Fiesta. This annual event in honor of the patron saint of fishermen serves as both a religious festival and community celebration.
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Schooners in Gloucester

Photo credit: Melissa Cox

Gloucester’s Schooners

Set sail aboard Gloucester’s majestic schooners and experience the timeless allure of Cape Ann’s seafaring tradition. Take to the water for sails aboard Thomas E. Lannon, Adventure, or Ardelle.

whale watch

Whale Watching

Encounter nature’s giants up close on a thrilling whale watch adventure, as these magnificent creatures migrate along Gloucester’s coastline. Set out on a whale watch to Stellwagen Bank with Gloucester’s own 7 Seas Whale Watch or Cape Ann Whale Watch.

Lobster at Mile Marker One

Photo credit: Tobin Dominick

Freshest Seafood

Indulge in the freshest seafood delights, sustaining Gloucester’s rich fishing legacy. Whether you stop for a lobster roll, pull up to a raw bar, or enjoy a classic fried seafood plate, you’ll find fresh seafood in local restaurants to suit whatever you’re craving.

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