Stage Fort Park is a scenic and historic public park located along the waterfront in Gloucester, Massachusetts. It marks the landing site of the city’s first settlers in 1623, who established fishing stages on this very ground. Today, it serves as a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation, community gatherings, and cultural celebrations.

 

The park is home to two distinct beaches, Half Moon Beach, a small, crescent-shaped cove with calm waters, and Cressy’s Beach, a rocky shoreline with panoramic harbor views. Both are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and taking in the coastal atmosphere.

 

Visitors will also find:

  • A playground

  • A sand volleyball court

  • Basketball, tennis, and baseball fields

  • A new street hockey rink

  • A fenced dog park for off-leash fun

  • Picnic tables and charcoal grilling areas (bring your own grill)

The park also houses Gloucester’s seasonal Visitor Welcoming Center, open from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, where visitors can pick up brochures and the Discover Gloucester Visitor Guide, refill water bottles, use public restrooms, and get personalized recommendations from friendly volunteers.

 

Stage Fort Park is also a premier venue for some of Gloucester’s most beloved events. It recently hosted the Battle of Bunker Hill Reenactment, drawing thousands of visitors for a weekend of living history. Throughout the year, the park welcomes festivals like Brew Fest, the Waterfront Festival, Riverfest, and the Blues Festival, bringing live music, food, crafts, and local culture to this iconic coastal setting.

 

Open seasonally from late May through mid-October, Stage Fort Park is a must-visit destination for beachgoers, families, history lovers, and festival fans alike.

NON-RESIDENT BEACH PARKING RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR GOOD HARBOR BEACH, WINGAERSHEEK BEACH, AND STAGE FORT PARK, AND MUST BE MADE ONLINE. VISIT GLOUCESTER’S BLINKAY WEBSITE TO PURCHASE NON-RESIDENT BEACH PARKING RESERVATIONS. RESERVATIONS CAN BE BOOKED UP TO 10 DAYS IN ADVANCE.
  • Mobility-Friendly