Summer is the best time of the year to visit this iconic part of New England. This first of three blogs begins with the city of Gloucester. I just can’t do Cape Ann justice in one blog post.
Lobsta BoatThe Fisherman’s Memorial Monument
As one drives into Cape Ann, I highly recommend a visit to the city of Gloucester and its harbor to view the many boats and ships coming in and out of Gloucester harbor. You must take a moment to stop by and pay tribute to the many fishermen who lost their lives at sea by viewing the Fisherman’s Memorial Monument or The Old Man of the Sea. This statue faces out to the Atlantic as a reminder of how dangerous this industry can be…
If you continue your walk along Stacy Boulevard, you will come across the cut bridge. This was the only entry into Gloucester prior to the A. Piatt Andrew bridge was built along Rt. 128 in 1957. Continue your walk over this small drawbridge and you will come across another memorial dedicated to the Women of the fisherman- aptly named “The Fishermen’s Wives Memorial.”
Fishermen’s Wives Memorial (image: goodmorninggloucester)
Whale Watching off Cape Ann! A Must for first time visitor!
There are so many activities and things to do in Gloucester. Of course, I am will not forget the other towns of Cape Ann in an upcoming post. The other Cape as I like to reference it includes: Gloucester, Essex, Manchester-by-the-sea, and Rockport. Each with their own unique New England charm. More to come on my thoughts of Cape Ann…
-Festivals – St. Peter’s Fiesta (a must see in late June)
-Beaches:
Stage Fort Park (Half Moon & Cressy), Pavillion Beach
Wingaersheek (my favorite)—go early if you wish to get parking.
Good Harbor (probably the most popular)
Niles Beach
Long Beach
If beaches are not your thing, you can just take in the local life of this still activity fishing community city that is still seen today as you walk along the boulevard.
If a escorted tour is of your liking, you can find one on Viator
Don’t forget to drive over to the other side of the Harbor and check out the Artist Colony known as the Rocky Neck Art Colony. Learn more about them by visiting their website below: