Rockport is a historic coastal town in Massachusetts and popular tourist destination. It’s known for its scenic views, local seafood, and rustic nature. So is Rockport worth visiting on your upcoming trip? Here’s all about our experiences there, Bearskin Neck, and more of the best things to do in Rockport MA!
How to Get to Rockport Massachusetts
Rockport is located just one hour north of Boston on the tip of Cape Ann Peninsula. This makes it a great place to visit on a day trip, or weekend getaway from the capital of Massachusetts.
There are a couple of different ways to get to Rockport MA. The commuter rail runs daily from Boston, but the easiest mode of transportation is a rental a car. We always use this company when searching for rental cars in New England. It allows you to compare different companies and rates to find the best deal!
If you decide to get a vehicle to make the trip to Rockport, know that it will be about a 40 mile drive. You can even take Route 1 up the coast and stop in other popular towns like Salem, Manchester by the Sea, and Gloucester. Further north you’ll find more beautiful destinations on the water such as Newburyport, Salisbury, and Plum Island.
Why is Rockport Famous?
Rockport is one of the more well known towns in the North Shore region of Massachusetts. Historically, it was a granite quarry and fishing town with European settlers first coming to the area in the late 17th century. Be sure to check out the Cape Ann Museum in Gloucester if you get a chance to learn more about the old granite quarries of Rockport.
Today it’s much more of a tourist town and home to stunning seaside vacation homes. Travelers are drawn in for its sandy beaches, downtown Rockport, and the plentiful seafood available. Even though it is touristy, you will still see local lobster fishermen tending to their fishing boats and a thriving art scene to enjoy.
Our Trips to Rockport Massachusetts
We’ve been regular visitors to this area of Massachusetts for most of our lives! Brigitte made camping trips to nearby Gloucester her entire childhood, and we’ve kept going back over the last 10 years. Specifically, during our time living in Boston, we would make the short drive to Rockport and the surrounding towns to hit the beach and grab a seafood lunch.
One thing to know about Rockport (and really all of New England) is that the weather can be hit or miss. As you can see, on our last visit we had a rainy September day. Luckily, there is enough to do and see in this coastal town to enjoy it even on a bad weather day.
Where to Stay in Rockport MA
While Rockport can easily be visited on a day trip, there are a few great options right in the center of town if you decide to spend the night. Honestly, this is one of our favorite areas of Massachusetts to explore.
As long as you aren’t traveling in the peak summer season then we highly recommend spending a night or two. Here are some of the most popular and highly rated places to stay in Rockport MA!
The Cove at Rockport: Just across the street from Front Beach is this nautical themed hotel. It has everything from sea view queen rooms to two bedroom townhouses to suit your party.
Beach & King Street Inn: Beautiful bed and breakfast located near all the best things to do in Rockport Massachusetts. Enjoy spacious rooms and drinks on your porch with views of Front Beach.
Bearskin Neck Motor Lodge: Right on the end of the main pier, and in the middle of all the action in Bearskin Neck. Rooms look directly out to the water and you’ll be walking distance to everything.
Strolling Down Bearskin Neck
This popular main street is in the heart of Rockport and stretches out along the pier from town. Here you’ll find a number of great seafood restaurants, cafes, ice scream shops, and local artists displaying their work.
On a summer day you’ll find Bearskin Neck bustling with people enjoy drinks and all the tasty lunch options. It’s also a fun place to peruse the small shops and even grab a coffee and people watch.
The story behind its name is also quite interesting. Apparently, early settlers in Rockport MA had to face off with bears coming down to the water. Legend has it, a local fisherman named Ebenezer witnessed his nephew being attacked by a large bear.
Somehow, Ebenezer was able to fend off the bear with just his fishing knife! Keep an eye for the sign in town which tells this wild tale of Bearskin Neck.
Fun Things to do in Rockport MA
Halibut Point State Park: After you’ve checked out the famous Bearskin Neck, this is one of the best places to see nature in Rockport MA! Halibut Point State Park is full of trails that work their way around the Babson Farm Quarry.
Rockport Beaches: Rockport has some of the most gorgeous beaches in Northeast Massachusetts, making it a popular spot for visitors in the summer months. Some of our favorites include Back Beach, Long Beach, Old Garden Beach, and Cape Hedge Beach. Also, don’t miss Front Beach which is just a short walk from the town center.
Kayaking: Looking to get out on the water? One of our favorite things to do in Rockport is to rent kayaks! They’re easy to find and there’s a rental spot near the entrance to Bearskin Neck. We also recommend jumping on a whale watching boat tour if you have time. Just know that like Cape Ann Whale Watch, most of the companies run out of Gloucester.
Museums: Rockport plays host to a number of incredible museums and art galleries. This is an especially great way to escape the rain or winter weather. Check out the Rockport Art Association & Museum, Sandy Bay Historical Society, the Motif Number 1 building, and Paper House. The Shalin Liu Performance Center is also a fun place to take in a concert.
Local Seafood: What would a visit to Rockport MA be without tasting some lobster rolls and fresh seafood? This town has a number of great seafood restaurants, with many of them right around Bearskin Neck. Roy Moore Lobster Co. is probably the most famous, but you don’t have to limit yourself to just one fish meal!
Rockport Islands: There are 2 main islands located just off Cape Ann near Rockport. Thacher and Straitsmouth Islands can be reached on a boat tour or even with kayaks. On a clear day you should also have a nice view of the Straitsmouth Island Lighthouse from town.
Is Rockport MA Worth Visiting?
Yes! While it is quite touristy, there are so many great things to do in Rockport MA. As we mentioned, we have made numerous trips here over the years and always have a fun time.
It’s small enough that you can see the town in just a couple of hours, but there are enough historical sights, beaches, and nature walks to keep you busy for more than one day. Definitely stop by Rockport if you’re planning a visit to this part of Massachusetts!
Have any questions about this article or want to share more of the best things to do in Rockport MA? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
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New England Travel Planning
Flights: We always find great flights using Skyscanner and Kayak. This way you can plan your trip around the cheapest and most direct routes.
Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda! Also, Hostelworld can be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Rental Car: We use Discover Cars when traveling. Consider renting a car in one city and dropping it off in another for an epic road trip!
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for hundreds of activities around the country. Book a tour of Fenway Park in Boston, skip the line at the Empire State Building in NYC, or go on a Scenic Boat Tour in Portland Maine!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without being covered! We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
Love Rockport but parking is a nightmare! If it is 90 degrees in the shade there is no relief other than a dunk in the ocean which can be tricky without a bathing suit! LOL!
Author
Haha. Definitely have to pack your bathing suit!