World Cup Side Trip North of Boston - All you need is a Day (or Two) on Cape Ann to see the best of New England.
Experience a New England coastal getaway where Boston is close, but the world feels far away.
Escape the city and relax and explore in the quintessential town of Rockport between World Cup matches. Enjoy traditional rocky coasts, sandy beaches, peaceful views, small town New England charm, and the freshest seafood on the East Coast.
Located just one hour north of Boston, Rockport sits on Cape Ann, an area known for rocky shorelines, working fishing harbors, and ocean views that feel a world away from the city.
Why Rockport Works Well for World Cup Travelers
Easy access from Boston by car or commuter rail train that is less than 60 min from Boston.
Calm, walkable town near the beach, or get into the trees at Halibut Point State Park
Classic New England scenery without a long detour
A quieter place to recharge before the next match
Spend a few hours in the sand, stroll art galleries and souvenir shops
Eat a lobster fresh from the ocean
Enjoy an ice cream after a climb on the Rocky harbor
Games in Boston
Friday, 6/13/2026, 9PM, Haiti vs Scotland
Tuesday, 6/16/2026, 6PM, TBD vs Norway
Friday, 6/19/2026, 6PM, Scotland vs Morocco
Tuesday, 6/23/2026, 4PM, England vs Ghana
Friday, 6/26/2026, 3PM, Norway vs France
Monday (moonrise), 6/29/206, 4.30PM, tbd vs tbd
A Simple Between-Games Itinerary with Something for Everyone
Wednesday
Travel from Boston to Rockport, check in, and spend the afternoon walking along the coast or exploring the village. Dinner at one of the areas great restaurants, with fresh seafood and ocean views. End your evening with a drink at our bar or by the firepit.
Surf, paddle, or enjoy the seaside
Relax by the pool
Explore local quarries and state parks
Thursday
Morning coffee and breakfast by the water, a coastal walk at Halibut Point State Park, time to rest or read by the sea on our expansive Veranda, then return to Boston later in the day or the following morning.
Whale watch with Cape Ann Whale Watch or Seven Seas
Boat ride or kayak from Rockport or Gloucester Harbor
Eat New England's freshest seafood including lobster, clams, and haddock.
Friday
Take the train so you never worry about traffic
Staying on the Coast
No car, no problem- our public transportation is great!
The Emerson Inn by the Sea is a historic, oceanfront boutique hotel offering a quieter alternative to city lodging during the World Cup. Choose Rockport to balance the energy of the matches with time outdoors and along the Atlantic. You won't miss the fun, Rockport and Gloucester have music every night somewhere.
If you’re traveling internationally or visiting Boston for the World Cup, adding Cape Ann to your itinerary offers a chance to experience a different side of Massachusetts — one defined by nature, history, and space to breathe.
