Group Tours
Thank you for choosing Gloucester, America’s Oldest Seaport, as your group’s travel destination. Group tours and motorcoach travel play an important role in Gloucester’s visitor economy, and Discover Gloucester is committed to ensuring a smooth and rewarding experience for operators, guides, and drivers.
For updates on events, parking, and itineraries, please visit DiscoverGloucester.com.
For assistance, contact Amanda Pollock, Executive Director, at (978) 675-1818 or amanda@discovergloucester.com.
Top Tips
Plan Ahead for the Best Experience
Advance planning is key to a smooth and successful group visit. Booking accommodations, dining, and attractions early ensures availability and allows for customized experiences. Many group-friendly businesses offer dedicated services or rates with advance notice.
Balance Structured Time with Flexibility
The most enjoyable group itineraries leave room to explore. Build in time for strolling downtown, visiting shops, or taking in the waterfront between scheduled activities. A balanced itinerary helps create a more relaxed and memorable experience for your group.
Take Advantage of Seasonal Experiences
Gloucester is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. From vibrant summer events and whale watching excursions to quieter coastal escapes in the shoulder seasons, timing your visit can shape the experience and availability for your group.
Consider Logistics for a Smooth Visit
Gloucester’s historic layout and active waterfront make planning ahead especially important for group transportation. Motorcoach parking, drop-off locations, and local regulations such as no-idling policies should be factored into your itinerary to ensure a seamless experience.
Work with Local Experts
Discover Gloucester is here to help you plan. From connecting you with step-on guides to recommending experiences tailored to your group, our team can assist with logistics, timing, and building an itinerary that fits your goals.
Access Routes
Gloucester is located 35 miles north of Boston on Cape Ann and is accessible by major highways.
From Boston or Logan Airport:
Take I-93 North to I-95 North, merge onto Route 128 North to Gloucester. Route 128 ends in Gloucester.
From Maine or New Hampshire:
Follow I-95 South to Route 128 North to Gloucester.
From the West or Mass Pike:
Take I-90 East to I-95/Route 128 North to Gloucester.
From Salem, Peabody, or Beverly:
Take Route 1A North or scenic Route 127 along the coast.
Drop-Off & Pick-Up Zones
Designated motorcoach drop-off and pick-up locations include Stage Fort Park, Harbor Loop, and Downtown Main Street with advance coordination through the City of Gloucester. Passenger unloading in non-designated areas may result in citations or delays.
Motorcoach Parking
Long term motorcoach parking is available year round at Stage Fort Park and is strongly recommended. Limited group bus parking may be available near the Beauport Hotel and Cruiseport area with prior arrangements. Downtown parking is restricted and coaches should relocate to Stage Fort Park after unloading.
Attractions for Groups
Gloucester offers a rich mix of coastal experiences, cultural institutions, and working waterfront activity that make it easy to build a memorable group itinerary. Whale watching is one of the region’s most iconic draws, offering seasonal opportunities to experience marine wildlife just off the coast. In addition, groups can explore historic sites, art studios, and maritime experiences through guided tours, interactive exhibits, and on-the-water adventures. Whether your group is interested in history, art, or the sea, there are experiences designed to accommodate a range of interests and group sizes.
Dining for Groups
Gloucester’s dining scene offers a range of waterfront and coastal-inspired experiences well suited for group travel, from relaxed harborside restaurants to polished, full-service venues with private event capabilities. Many locations feature expansive decks, panoramic ocean views, and menus centered around fresh, locally sourced seafood.
Groups can expect thoughtfully prepared New England cuisine, including regional favorites like lobster, fried seafood, and house-made chowders, alongside contemporary coastal dishes, steaks, pasta, and seasonal specialties. A variety of venues can accommodate motorcoach groups, receptions, and special events, with flexible layouts and customizable menus designed to suit different group sizes and experiences.
Festivals & Seasonal Events
Gloucester offers a vibrant, year-round calendar of events that celebrate its maritime heritage, cultural diversity, and creative community. Signature events like the St. Peter’s Fiesta in June and the Gloucester Schooner Festival over Labor Day weekend anchor the season, drawing visitors from across the region with traditions rooted in the city’s fishing history and seafaring culture.
Beyond these hallmark celebrations, groups will find a rich and evolving lineup of arts and cultural programming throughout the year, including exhibitions, performances, and live music across Gloucester’s cultural districts and waterfront neighborhoods.
For a full and up-to-date schedule of events during your visit, explore Discover Gloucester’s events calendar, which highlights ongoing programming, seasonal experiences, and opportunities to enhance your group itinerary.
Step-On Guides & Tour Operators
Discover Gloucester can connect your group with licensed step-on guides and receptive tour operators specializing in maritime history, art, culture, and culinary tours.
Group Accommodations
Gloucester offers a wide range of group-friendly stay options to accommodate different travel styles, budgets, and group sizes. From full-service hotels and waterfront resorts to inns, motels, boutique properties, and short-term home rentals, there are options suited for everything from motorcoach tours to small group getaways. A local campground also provides a unique coastal experience for groups seeking an outdoor stay.
Many properties offer convenient access to downtown, the harbor, and key attractions, with amenities and layouts designed to support group travel.
To explore the full range of options and find the right fit for your group, visit Discover Gloucester’s Stay page for current listings and availability.
Emergency & General Information
For emergencies, dial 911.
Addison Gilbert Hospital is located at 298 Washington Street, Gloucester, phone (978) 283-4000.
Gloucester Police non-emergency line is (978) 283-1212.
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