Rockport, Massachusetts is a self-described “seaport village” on Cape Ann, about 40 miles north of Boston. Settled in 1690, Rockport was a “dry” town from 1856 until 2005. Now “several Rockport restaurants are licensed to serve alcoholic beverages with meals.” (Rockport Chamber of Commerce). But one hundred and fifty years ago Hannah Jumper led the “Hatchet Gang Raid” driving “demon rum” out of Rockport.
You should visit Rockport, Massachusetts because it is just as interesting today, with a thriving arts community, parks, delectably fresh seafood, and many visual surprises.
Rockport’s Bearskin Neck
Rockport, Massachusetts is an active arts community. One can see how active when walking through the narrow streets of Bearskin Neck, which is partiallycommercial and partially residential. Browse Rockport’s reasonably priced artist galleries, and maybe even see artists working on their creations. Bearskin Neck in Rockport, Massachusetts also has regionally-themed gift shops and treat shops selling fudge, strudel, taffy, and ice cream. While exploring Bearskin Neck, when you reach Bradley Pier you may think you walked into a painting. The red fishing shack of Bearskin Neck has been photographed and painted so many times that it is referred to as “Motif #1.” It’s no wonder Rockport, Massachusetts is such a haven for artists.
For a totally Rockport dining experience, stop by the Roy Moore Lobster Company. Pick a fresh lobster out of tank and they will cook it for you to eat out back, in a low-key and minimal setting with a view of the water. Other inexpensive and fresh items are available.
Paper House Museum in Rockport, Massachusetts
We’ve all heard of the proverbial “house of cards,” but what about a house made entirely paper? From the road, Rockport’s Paper House Museum looks like any other small New England house. As you move closer, however you will see that the outside of the house is not wood or siding, but rolled up newspapers that have been glued together and then varnished. Even the furnishings and decor, from the curtains the piano and fireplace are make of newspaper. Historic newspapers have made their way into some pieces, like a desk made with newspapers with articles about Charles Lindburg’s flight. The Paper House Museum is located at 52 Pigeon Hill, Rockport, Massachusetts.
Rockport’s Halibut Point State Park is an ocean-side park featuring hiking trails and the former Babson Farm granite quarry which is now filled with water. Spectacular views of the quarry can be found around every corner of the self-guided trail. From certain angles you can see the quarry and the ocean. Hike around the quarry and down a slight slope to the boulder-covered shore. Follow the sound of waves crashing on the rocks and you will find yourself in knee-high brush whose trails are hidden until you are directly upon them. Delight in the creature-inhabited tidal pools and the stacked rock formations. Parents with small children will want to be aware that the quarry has been left natural, without guardrails or fences. Halibut Point State Park is located on Gott Avenue, Pigeon Cove, Rockport, Massachusetts and is open year-round.
Nestled in the heart of residential Rockport, Massachusetts is the quaint Millbrook Medow. The park is unexpected and quite lovely and peaceful.
The Rockport Art Association has ongoing art exhibitions of local Rockport painters and New England-themed art. The Rockport Art Association is located at 12 Main Street, Rockport, Massachusetts.
Beaches in Rockport, Massachusetts There a number of small beaches in Rockport which have limited parking.Rockport beaches include Back Beach on Beach Street, Cape Hedge Beach on South Street, Front Beach on Main Street, Long Beach on Long Beach Road, Old Garden Beach on Old Garden Road, and the aptly named Pebble Beach on Penzance Road.
Whether you’re going to Rockport, Massachusetts for the art, the seafood, or just the scenery, enjoy this untouched coastal New England town.
Reference:
- Rockport Art Association www.rockportartassn.org Photos of Halibut Point State Park www.halibutpointstatepark.org
