Cute New England Coastal Towns Perfect For Day Trips: Rockport

I recently posted about a day trip that we took to Gloucester Massachusetts that we thoroughly enjoyed. The neighboring town to the west is called Rockport and it also brings some of the great charms of small coastal fishing towns.

Fun Things to Do In Rockport

There are a lot of things that you can do in Rockport depending on the season you visit. We drove up one day from Boston during the summer and I can tell you do not get there late. The beaches are very scenic and sand space fills up quickly. We went early to get a street parking spot and paid the meter for a few hours.

There are trails you can walk as well as bike. We really enjoyed walking and seeing the cute downtown area. The main shopping street called Bearskin Neck is surrounded by water and has so many cute local shops.

There is Halibut Point State park that is less then a 10 minute drive from city center that has amazing views and trails.

If you would like to get out on the water, there are a number of boat tours that can take you whale watching or to see the numerous light houses.

Great Places to Eat in Rockport

Our first stop once in Rockport like most instances was a coffee shop called Bean and Leaf Coffee Shop. This local shop is located in the Bearskin Neck area that offers delicious coffee and baked goods. There are also wraps, salads, and soups available. One of the highlights stopping here though is the seating that overlooks the water.

We visited Rockport twice while living in Boston, so the first trip we ate brunch at DeLisi’s Red Skiff. This locally owned restaurant was perfect. We were lucky enough to snag a table on the sidewalk outside on the beautiful day. It is only open until 2 p.m. so get there early! It offers a wide array of food on the menu.

The other time we visited, we had my in-laws with us, and we stopped at My Place by The Sea. It is located right on the tip of the Bearskin Neck road. It comes with breath taking views and some amazing seafood. There really isn’t a bad seat in the house!

Great Shopping In Rockport

Partially why we visited Rockport multiple times was because of how great the shopping is. Between local apparel shops, pewter stores, and ice cream/candy shops you cannot really go wrong.

Starting at the tip of of Bearskin Neck, one of my favorite shops The Pewter Shop offers a huge selection of Pewter made houseware and ornaments.

If you enjoy something on the sweeter side I suggest Rockport Fudgery and Tuck’s Candy Factory. The kids absolutely loved going in these stores and seeing all the goods.

overall experience in rockport

Rockport is an amazing small coastal town that has so much to offer. If traveling through New England I highly recommend stopping in even if its just for lunch and to shop. You can get all that you are looking for just walking down one street in this beautiful town.

We never stayed overnight in Rockport because we lived pretty close, but if you are looking for a place to stay this lodge is in the perfect location!

What are some of your favorite things to do in Rockport?