Things to do in Gloucester
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Rocky Neck Art Colony
The artistic legacy of Gloucester native Fitz Hugh Lane endures, as Gloucester still boasts a vibrant artists community at Rocky Neck Art Colony. The association operates the cooperative Bryan Gallery in a beautiful space overlooking Smith Cove.
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Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center
Visit Gloucester’s working waterfront and see the ongoing restoration of wooden boats, watch the operation of a marine railway that hauls ships out of the water, and compare the different kinds of fishing boats that were used over the years. Sea Pocket Lab is a hands-on outdoor aquarium with exhibits on local marine habitats. It is a great chance for kids to get down and dirty with sea stars, sea urchins, snails, crabs and seaweed. The Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary Exhibit is an excellent introduction for whale-watchers heading out on an excursion. From the Grant Circle rotary, take Washington St to its terminus then turn left on Rogers St to Harbor Loop. Be sure not…
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Beauport Mansion
The lavish ‘summer cottage’ of interior designer Henry Davis Sleeper is known as Beauport Mansion, or the Sleeper-McCann mansion. Sleeper toured New England in search of houses about to be demolished and bought up selected elements from each: wood paneling, architectural elements and furniture. In place of unity, Sleeper created a wildly eclectic but artistically surprising – and satisfying – place to live. Now in the care of the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities, Beauport is open to visitors. Beauport also holds afternoon teas, evening concerts and other special events.
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Bryan Gallery
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Dog Bar
Go around to the rear entrance to sample the eclectic menu and cold drinks at Dog Bar. From the simple (not-so-sloppy joes) to the sophisticated (smoked whiskey shrimp cocktail), just about everything here would be appealing to your dog, who might also appreciate the outdoor seating. There are plans to open an upscale restaurant in the front of the building.
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Cape Ann Historical Museum
This museum is a gem – particularly for its impressive collection of paintings by Gloucester native Fitz Hugh Lane.
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Seven Seas Whale Watch
Whale-watching cruises usually depart several times a day in summer, but only once a day or perhaps only on weekends in April, May, September and October. Reservations are recommended. Seven Seas vessels depart from Rogers St in the center of Gloucester, between St Peter’s Sq and the Gloucester House Restaurant.
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Cape Ann Whale Watch
Whale-watching cruises usually depart several times a day in summer, but only once a day or perhaps only on weekends in April, May, September and October. Reservations are recommended. Cruises depart from Rose’s Wharf, east of Gloucester center (on the way to East Gloucester).
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Yankee Whale Watch
Whale-watching cruises usually depart several times a day in summer, but only once a day or perhaps only on weekends in April, May, September and October. Reservations are recommended. The Yankee fleet ties up at the dock next door to the Gull Restaurant on MA 133 (MA 128 exit 14).
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Capt Bill & Sons Whale Watch
Gloucester's working waterfront is a good place to pick up a whale-watching cruise. Capt Bill & Sons Whale Watch leaves from behind Captain Carlo’s Seafood Market & Restaurant.
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The Gloucester Fisherman
Don't leave Gloucester without paying your respects at St Peter's Square. Here stands Leonarde Craske's famous statue, The Gloucester Fisherman, often called 'The Man at the Wheel.' The statue is dedicated to 'They That Go Down to the Sea in Ships, 1623-1923.'
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Madfish Grille
On a wharf at Rocky Neck, the Madfish is a hopping bar that attracts a young, cruisey crowd. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, it hosts live music Wednesday through Sunday (weekends only in spring and fall). The kitchen turns out excellent, creative dishes.
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Virgilio’s Italian Bakery
Primarily a take-out joint, Virgilio’s has excellent sandwiches and other Italian treats. Try the famous St Joseph sandwich – like an Italian sub on a fresh-baked roll. Pick one up and head down to the waterfront for a picnic.
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Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary Exhibit
The Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary Exhibit is an excellent introduction for whale-watchers heading out on an excursion. From the Grant Circle rotary, take Washington St to its terminus. Turn left on Rogers St to Harbor Loop.
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Rhumb Line
This club across from the train station is the best place on Cape Ann to hear live music, with performances almost nightly. Acts range from mellow acoustic and blues to high-energy rock, with the occasional open-mike night.
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Maria’s Pizza
Gloucester’s favorite pizzeria is across from the train station. Crunchy-crust pizza, fried seafood and thick clam chowder will sate any appetite. Bring your own beer from the ‘packy’ across the street.
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Sea Pocket Lab
Sea Pocket Lab is a hands-on outdoor aquarium with exhibits on local marine habitats. It is a great chance for kids to get down and dirty with sea stars, sea urchins, snails, crabs and seaweed.
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Duckworth’s Bistrot
Half-portions and wines by the glass (or carafe) mean that Duckworth’s won’t break your bank. But the menu of fresh seafood and local produce means you will dine like a gourmand.
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Elliott’s at the Blackburn
Exposed brick and polished wood make for a very cozy spot. Come for old-fashioned comfort food with a modern twist, like lobster mac and cheese, buffalo bolognese or fig pizza.
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Schooner Thomas E Lannon
The 65ft Schooner Thomas E Lannon is the spitting image of the Gloucester fishing schooners. It leaves on two-hour sails from the Seven Seas wharf.
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Two Sisters Coffee Shop
This local place is where the fisherfolk go for breakfast when they come in from their catch. They are early risers, so you may have to wait for a table.
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Franklin Cape Ann
The North Shore branch of a South End favorite in Boston, this cool place has an urban atmosphere and an excellent, modern New American menu.
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Gloucester Stage Company
This company stages excellent small-theater productions of classics and modern works.
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St Peter’s Square
- Gloucester, USA
- Sights › Other
Don’t leave Gloucester without paying your respects at St Peter's Square, where Leonard Craske’s famous statue, Gloucester Fisherman is dedicated to ‘They That Go Down to the Sea in Ships, 1623–1923.’
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