Rockport, Massachusetts is known for its rich history as an art colony and oceanfront retreat, once welcoming renowned thinkers such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, after whom the Inn is named, and Henry David Thoreau.
Today, visitors enjoy sunbathing on the rocks and beaches, exploring wooded trails and scenic shoreline paths, strolling through historic Bearskin Neck, or heading out on whale watching excursions from Rockport or nearby Gloucester.
With one of the most picturesque harbors in the nation, Rockport is the epitome of quaint New England charm. Visit Motif No. 1, the iconic red fishing shack along the harbor and one of the most painted and photographed buildings in the world.
Stroll through downtown and along the famous stretch of Bearskin Neck, where you will find a variety of antique stores, jewelry shops, clothing boutiques, and other local favorites.
Rockport offers a number of beautiful beaches, each with its own unique character. A favorite for scuba divers, Back Beach is located between Main and Granite Streets and is also known for its great views. If you are looking for a quieter escape, Cape Hedge Beach on South Street is tucked away and offers a peaceful setting that is perfect for relaxing. Front Beach is a lively spot on Sandy Bay, just a short walk from downtown Rockport, making it easy to enjoy the nearby restaurants and shops. Long Beach, off Thatcher Road, features a long, protected stretch of sand and ocean, lined with summer cottages and backed by a retaining wall. From here, you can take in views of the twin lighthouses on Thacher’s Island.
Whether you are hoping to catch a giant bluefin tuna, spot a gentle giant, or simply enjoy a peaceful sail along the coast, Rockport offers unforgettable boating charters and whale watching experiences. From mid-April through October, the waters come alive with Humpback, Fin, and Minke whales, along with the rare and endangered Right whale. It is not uncommon to also see playful dolphins and an impressive variety of seabirds, including Black Guillemots, Manx Shearwaters, Greater Shearwaters, Sooty Shearwaters, and Wilson’s Storm Petrels. Many whale watching tours even guarantee sightings, making it an exciting and memorable highlight of any visit.
Click here for Cape Ann Whale Watch.
More challenging than it first appears, the semi-private Rockport Golf Club (978-546-3340) features thick, tree-lined fairways that reward accuracy and thoughtful play. While it is a 9-hole course, additional tees allow for a full eighteen-hole round. Guests are encouraged to ask an innkeeper for current public play times. The course is open from April through the end of October.
Straitsmouth Island Lighthouse, built in 1835, marks the entrance to nearby Rockport Harbor. The lighthouse is maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard, while the island itself is owned by the Massachusetts Audubon Society and preserved as a bird and wildlife sanctuary. The Twin Lighthouses, also known as Cape Ann Light Station, are the only surviving multiple lights along the coasts of the United States. The original 45-foot towers were constructed and first lit in 1789, making them among the oldest lighthouses in the country. The Annisquam Lighthouse in nearby Gloucester is also a favorite among visitors and offers a classic New England coastal view.
Guests can enjoy an exciting lineup of musical performances and cultural events throughout the year, from classical and jazz to folk and world music, along with HD simulcasts from the Metropolitan Opera and England’s National Theatre, all at the acclaimed Shalin Liu Performance Center, set right along Rockport’s scenic waterfront. In the summer, the energy continues with the Rockport Chamber Music Festival, where the town comes alive with orchestral performances, featuring talented string quartets, pianists, vocalists, and trios throughout June. It’s a vibrant, memorable experience that adds something special to every stay.
