Massachusetts' Gorgeous Coastal Town Is Perfect For A New England Getaway

There is something evocative about New England — from its harbor towns, to crisp fall days, and the sense of community. And, okay, maybe it's also the fresh seafood. If this sounds like heaven to you, a trip to Rockport, Massachusetts, might be just what you're craving. 

Home to the Agawam people, with European settlers arriving in 1623, Rockport was officially founded as a town in 1840. It sits right at the end of Cape Ann, and although it was once a fishing port and granite supplier, it's now home to charming shops, art galleries, and lots of outdoor activities. Located less than 3 miles from Halibut Point State Park, where granite was once quarried, it's possible to enjoy hiking and quarry tours. There are also beaches to enjoy, as well as whale-watching opportunities, and a famous red fishing shack called Motif #1 (pictured above) that is often said to be the most painted building in the country. 

The best way to get to Rockport is to fly into Boston Logan International, one of the oldest airports in the U.S., which is a little under 40 miles away. However, it's not absolutely necessary to have a car. You can take a subway, bus, or taxi to cover the 3 miles from the airport to Boston's North Station. From there, visitors can jump on the Newburyport/Rockport line to Rockport. The train splits at Beverly, so make sure you're heading to Rockport. Once in Rockport, it's only a five-minute walk from the station to downtown. On the way there or back, you might want to make a stop at the witch city of Salem to take a ghost tour or to learn about the history of the town's witch trials. The same line stops there. 

You can't visit Rockport without taking a picture of the famous red Motif #1 fishing shack. Originally built in the 1840s and replaced after a storm destroyed it in the 1970s, the building has been painted again and again over the years — often by artists who have made their home in Rockport. There is even a picture of it hanging in the dentist's office in the animated film "Finding Nemo," as director Andrew Stanton is from Rockport. Art galleries are dotted all over the village, too, and it's recommended that visitors stop by The Art of David Arsenault Gallery, which features paintings and prints of the local area. 

While you're wandering through town admiring the art, you'll probably want to do some shopping. If you're looking for jewelry, Wicked Peacock should be right up your alley. Alternatively, you can also bring home some lovely gifts from Carol Lee's Cottage, including gorgeous pieces from local artists that range from sea glass art to paintings, pottery, and more.

Considering you're in New England, there's also plenty of seafood. One must-visit spot is Roy Moore Lobster Company, which serves up delicious lobster rolls made with lobsters cooked in seawater. They also serve wine, cider, and beer, so you can make a night of it. Other notable dishes include their house-smoked salmon and scallops, New England clam chowder, stuffed clams, and a raw bar. However, do note that this spot is seasonal and closes for the winter in November. For a sweet treat, The Ice Cream Store on Bearskin Neck has flavors like Heath Bar crunch, Winter Solstice peppermint, Cookie Monster's cookie dough, and more, along with frozen yogurt, sundaes, shaved ice, and blended drinks.

Halibut Point State Park, located in Rockport, is right on the water and was once home to the granite quarries that supported the town. There, visitors will find trails to hike and tide pools to explore. Better yet, it's open year-round, you can take self-guided tours of the quarries, and there is no admission fee from November through April. The rest of the year, admission costs $5 for Massachusetts residents and $20 for non-residents.

If you're looking to spend some quality beach time in Rockport, Front Beach, west of the headland, is a great place to relax. It's family-friendly, within walking distance from the village, and there are restrooms available. For a bit of beach walking or to enjoy a picnic, check out Back Beach, north of the village. It's a popular spot for scuba divers, and in the summer, the Rockport Legion Band often hosts free Sunday concerts there. Another great daytime activity is to walk along the stone breakwater , or wander down the public paths on the waterfront. 

Finally, while you're in the area, you'll be less than 4 miles from the historic city of Gloucester, home to America's oldest seaport, which is absolutely worth a visit. There, travelers can also embark on a whale-watching tour with the family-run 7 Seas Whale Watch, taking place from mid-April through mid-October. During the trip, you can observe humpback, finback, minke, pilot, and other species of whales, as well as sharks, dolphins, seals, and sea turtles. If you don't have a car and you're taking the Newburyport/Rockport line back to Boston, you'll be happy to hear the train stops right at Gloucester.