15 Best Things to Do in Gloucester (MA)

Gloucester, Massachusetts is a coastal town steeped in history and home to a wide range of activities. From the iconic Fishermen’s Memorial Statue to its rocky beaches, Gloucester is an ideal place for those looking for adventure and relaxation. With so much to do and see, it can be difficult to decide what activities locals and visitors should prioritize when visiting this charming New England town.

1. Good Harbor Beach

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Good Harbor Beach is an idyllic destination for beachgoers located in Gloucester, Massachusetts. With tranquil waters and a picturesque shoreline, it’s one of the most beloved and popular beaches on the northeast coast of the United States. This beautiful beach can be found just north of Cape Ann, near Rockport.

Featuring soft white sand, crystal clear water and plenty of sunshine, Good Harbor Beach is ideal for swimming, surfing and even kayaking. In addition to enjoying all that this beach has to offer during the daytime hours, visitors will also love to take in its breathtaking sunset views at night. There are also a variety of activities available at Good Harbor Beach such as picnicking on the grassy areas or exploring nearby trails.

2. Fisherman’s Memorial Monument

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The Fisherman’s Memorial Monument in Massachusetts is a tribute to the United States’ rich fishing heritage. Located off of the coast of Gloucester, MA, this monument stands as a memorial to those who have lost their lives while out at sea. It is a magnificent feat of engineering and artistry that pays homage to the brave men and women who dedicated their lives to bringing sustenance from the ocean.

The monument was erected in 1925 by the citizens of Gloucester to remember those lost during World War I. Since then, it has become an iconic symbol for fishermen everywhere and represents the spirit of adventure and bravery associated with those who bravely face nature’s challenges. The memorial consists of four bronze figures atop an ornamental granite pedestal, each representing a different type of seafaring craft such as sailing ships, steamers, schooners and motor vessels.

3. Hammond Castle Museum

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The Hammond Castle Museum in Massachusetts is the perfect destination for history buffs and culture vultures alike. Located on the Atlantic Ocean, it offers spectacular views of Gloucester Harbour. Built by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., the castle was once his personal residence, however now it serves as a museum which houses an extensive collection of medieval artifacts from all over the world.

Visitors to the museum can explore 8 different rooms and learn about Hammond’s inventions and his passion for collecting rare antiquities. Ancient manuscripts, suits of armor, 16th-century oil paintings, stained glass windows and other fascinating items are all part of this extraordinary collection. Guests may also take a guided tour to get an even more in-depth look at the museum’s unique displays.

4. Historic Downtown Gloucester

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The town of Gloucester, Massachusetts is located in the northeastern corner of the United States and is a part of Essex county. With a population around 30,000 people, Gloucester is known for its rich history and beautiful coastal scenery. Historic Downtown Gloucester is the perfect destination for those looking to explore MA’s past.

Founded by English settlers in 1623, Historic Downtown Gloucester offers an array of sites and activities to explore. From the Cape Ann Museum to The Hammond Castle Museum, visitors can have fun while learning about local history with interactive exhibits or take guided tours through important historical structures like The Old Jail or Stephen Phillips Memorial Park. Those seeking outdoor recreation can visit Fisherman’s Memorial Park which has stunning waterfront views as well as a granite monument commemorating fishermen who have perished at sea.

5. Whale Watching

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Whale watching is an increasingly popular activity in the United States, and Massachusetts is no exception. From the rocky shores of Cape Cod to the islands off Martha’s Vineyard, MA presents some of the best whale watching opportunities in the country. In fact, Massachusetts sees some of the highest numbers of whales on its coast than anywhere else in America!

Different species can be seen depending on when you go — from humpback whales to fin whales and even dolphins. The months from May through October are typically prime times for whale watching; during this time, visitors have a greater chance of seeing a variety of whales. But no matter when you go out on a whale watch, it’s sure to be an amazing experience that will stay with you for years to come!

6. Wingaersheek Beach

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Wingaersheek Beach, located in the United States state of Massachusetts (MA), is one of the premier oceanfront beaches on the East Coast. This beach offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and stunning white sand that stretches for miles along this stretch of coastline. Visitors will have plenty to explore at Wingaersheek Beach, including a large area suitable for swimming, boating and other water activities. The beach also features a plethora of amenities such as outdoor showers and picnic tables. There are several trails that meander through nearby coastal marshlands, providing visitors with an opportunity to observe local wildlife or take a leisurely stroll along nature’s path. Additionally, there are several restaurants and shops located close by for added convenience. So if you’re seeking an awe-inspiring beach experience near MA, look no further than Wingaersheek Beach!

7. Stage Fort Park

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Stage Fort Park is a public park located in Gloucester, Massachusetts. It covers an area of 36 acres and boasts spectacular ocean views from its rocky coastline. The park offers many recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, from swimming beaches to fishing spots to walking trails, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Stage Fort Park is steeped in historical significance dating back the 1600s when British settlers first landed on Cape Ann. Since then, the area has been used as a fortification site during wars such as the Revolutionary War and World War II. Today, Stage Fort Park remains a popular spot for locals and tourists alike who come to experience its natural beauty and learn about its fascinating past. Visitors can also explore nearby shops and restaurants that offer an array of local delights including seafood specialties, ice cream parlors and coffee shops.

8. Eastern Point Lighthouse

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The Eastern Point Lighthouse is located in Gloucester, Massachusetts and has been a beacon of light for ships since its construction in 1890. This iconic lighthouse was designed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and stands at a height of 48 feet. It is located at the end of Eastern Point which is surrounded by rocky cliffs that jut out into the Atlantic Ocean. The four levels are clearly visible from the ocean and it has become one of the most recognizable lighthouses in all of MA.

The walls are made up entirely of brick masonry with windows on each floor to allow additional light to penetrate into each area. The light itself consists of two red sectors that warn ships to avoid land, as well as a white light which is visible for 14 nautical miles away from shore.

9. Seafood

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Seafood is a popular food choice for many throughout the United States, and Massachusetts is no exception. With its Atlantic coast, MA provides locals and tourists alike with an abundance of fresh seafood options that are sure to please any palate. From local lobster caught off the coast of Cape Cod to freshly shucked oysters from Martha’s Vineyard, there is something for everyone. Visitors can also find plenty of restaurants in the area that specialize in serving up delicious seafood dishes made from freshly caught ingredients. In addition to these offerings, MA also has some of the best fish markets in the country, providing locals with high-quality seafood catches at competitive prices year-round. Whether you’re looking for a unique dining experience or just want to stock up on fresh seafood staples like salmon or tuna, Massachusetts has you covered!

10. Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House

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Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House is a historic mansion located in Gloucester, Massachusetts. This magnificent home was built in 1907 by renowned American architect Henry Davis Sleeper and stands as an example of his unique style of architecture. The house is composed of 40 rooms and houses a collection of over 20,000 pieces of furniture and decorations that were collected by its original owner, Harriet Lawrence Hemenway. Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2005, Beauport has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Massachusetts.

In addition to its rich history and beautiful design, Beauport offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of those who lived there throughout the years. Visitors can take guided tours around the property’s gardens and through each room containing exquisite antiques from many different eras.

11. Cape Ann Museum

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The Cape Ann Museum is located in Gloucester, Massachusetts and is a must-see for anyone who enjoys exploring the history and culture of the United States. Founded in 1873, the museum features 10 galleries that showcase fine art and historical artifacts from New England’s past. Visitors can view works by noted artists such as Fitz Henry Lane, Winslow Homer, Fitz Hugh Lane, William Haskell Coffin, and many others while learning about their role in shaping America’s colonial history.

The museum also houses over 6 million photographs that depict daily life on Cape Ann as well as artifacts from local shipwrecks dating back to the 17th century. In addition to its permanent collections, special exhibits are also frequently featured that showcase contemporary art and explore topics related to both cultural heritage and current events.

12. Maritime Gloucester

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Maritime Gloucester is the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore the history of Massachusetts (MA) and its rich maritime culture. Located in Gloucester, MA, Maritime Gloucester offers a wide range of educational and interactive experiences that bring United States history to life. This organization is dedicated to preserving the New England maritime heritage and celebrating the region’s fishing industry. Through interactive exhibits, cruises on board traditional vessels and hands-on workshops, visitors can learn about seafaring history from early colonial times through modern day fishing practices.

At Maritime Gloucester, visitors will discover a unique collection of artifacts from local shipwrecks with stories about each vessel’s crew members, tales of heroic rescues at sea and insights into how life was lived during different periods in time.

13. Ravenswood Park

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Ravenswood Park, located in Massachusetts (MA), United States, is a great place for outdoor adventurers to explore. This park stretches over 300 acres and includes a variety of recreational activities such as hiking trails, fishing ponds, and picnic areas. Whether you’re looking for a day of relaxation or exciting outdoor adventures, Ravenswood Park has something for everyone!

There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors at this spectacular park. The park features scenic hiking trails that wind through the woods and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also enjoy fishing at one of two stocked ponds or take advantage of the many picnic areas throughout the park. In addition, there are plenty of wildlife sightings to be had while exploring the area – deer, birds and other animals frequently make an appearance at Ravenswood Park!

14. Cultural Center at Rocky Neck

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The Rocky Neck Cultural Center located in Gloucester, Massachusetts (MA), is a vibrant center for the arts and culture that has been operating since 1970. The center is dedicated to preserving the heritage of the United States and features numerous art galleries, interactive exhibits, workshops and educational programs.

The Rocky Neck Cultural Center offers something for everyone – from children to adults – with an extensive array of events and activities including music, dance, theatre productions, film screenings, lectures and more. Visitors will also find a diverse selection of local handmade crafts in the gift shop. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in various community outreach programs such as volunteer work at local schools or helping out with special projects like beach clean-ups.

15. Fishermen’s Wives Memorial

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The Fishermen’s Wives Memorial in Gloucester, Massachusetts is a powerful reminder of the treacherous nature of life on the sea. The memorial was dedicated in 2001 to commemorate the thousands of fishermen who have lost their lives to the unforgiving waters off Massachusetts over the past centuries. It stands as a testament to those brave men and women who risked their lives for a living, and honors their families who have been left behind.

Located on Fisherman’s Memorial Park at Stacey Boulevard and Rogers Street in Gloucester, MA, this bronze sculpture—created by artist Carl Aichinger—features three figures: one woman holding an anchor aloft with both hands, a young girl reaching up toward her mother, and an older woman facing out towards open water with outstretched arms.

In conclusion,Gloucester, MA is a great city to explore and offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. From exploring the breathtaking coastline to learning about the culture and history of New England fishing villages, there’s something for everyone in Gloucester. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or something more low-key, you can be sure to find an activity that suits your tastes.