Massachusetts

Summer Day Trip to Rockport, MA

Few coastal towns manage to fit in quite so much charm. Here’s what to do in Rockport, MA, including where to eat, shop, and more.

By Bethany Bourgault

Jun 29 2022

Motif No. 1

Motif No. 1 | The Story Behind the Little Red Shack

Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA, is a coastal town of food, shopping, and seaside charm. It’s the perfect place to relax by the ocean, browse the work of an incredible number of artists, and of course, eat a lobster roll. 
Rockport, MA
Motif No. 1 is the icon of Rockport, MA.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
There’s something special about this little town. In all of my New England exploring, I’ve yet to encounter a place that captures the essence of coastal life quite like Rockport. After all, Rockport is the inspiration behind so many works of art (it’s been an artists’ haven for almost a century — most notably thanks to Motif No. 1, pictured above) that it’s no wonder Rockport is the physical embodiment of our ideas of life by the water. And with its next-door neighbor to the north, south, and east being the Atlantic Ocean, I can’t help but feel like Rockport would rather be a part of the sea anyway. As the tip of the Cape Ann peninsula, Rockport, MA, is in historic Essex County. It began as part of the nearby town of Gloucester, and together these areas got their start in the fishing business. Pine harvested from the vicinity was used for shipbuilding, and locally quarried granite (they didn’t call it “rock” port for nothing!) was shipped all up and down America’s east coast. It wasn’t until much later that tourism appeared on the local economy’s radar, but now that it has, there are plenty of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences for the sea-seeking explorer to enjoy.

I arrived in town just before noon — just in time to visit one of my favorite seafood restaurants, Roy Moore’s Fish Shack. I remember eating here with my family as a little girl, and trust me, the menu looks just as delicious now as it did back then. Roy Moore’s has two locations in the Bearskin Neck area to suit the preferences of any and all lobster lovers. One, a sit-down nautical-looking restaurant at 21 Dock Square, is perfect for dinnertime or taking a break from the outdoors, and the other, a more casual eatery at 39 Bearskin Neck, is a great option for diners on the go.

Rockport, MA
Roy Moore’s Fish Shack offers classic, delicious seafood and great views.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Lunch time view in Rockport, MA.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Now THAT’S what I’d call a great lunch!
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Roy Moore Lobster Co. on Bearskin Neck in Rockport, MA.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Ocean-side dining complete, it was time to head to the shops and galleries, where you can find everything from prints, pottery and photography to original paintings, hand-crafted jewelry, and more. Most of these are concentrated on Bearskin Neck itself, though there are several that have spilled over to the adjoining streets. Wear your walking shoes! Here’s a quick sampling of some of my favorites.
Rockport, MA
The Pewter Shop has been celebrating the work of metal-crafters since 1935.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
The Blue Lantern specializes in women’s accessories, like these colorful scarves.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Don’t forget your furry friends! Stop by the Good Dog Gallery for dog- and pet-themed gifts and art.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Rockport’s colorful buildings evoke a sense of whimsical seaside charm.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
A varied assortment of beach-ready clothing awaits.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Ocean-inspired art in the gift shops.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
The Bearskin Neck Country Store is a retro “blast from the past.”
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Insert a quarter and the piano will play you a tune!
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Penny candy, anyone?
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
For those with a sweet tooth for nostalgic candy, the country store is the place to be.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Colorful flower arrangements welcome visitors to Carol Lee’s Cottage.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Looking for some water-based adventure? North Shore Kayak offers all of the gear you’ll need, plus kayak rentals.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
One of my favorite stops — the Fudgery. My personal recommendation? The penuche fudge!
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Rockport, MA
Pick your favorite flavors.
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Rockport, MA
Lula’s Pantry is full of unique kitchen accessories.
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Rockport, MA
Tuck’s Candy Store has been popular since its founder began crafting chocolate confections in 1929.
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Rockport, MA
So many choices at Tuck’s!
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Rockport, MA
Stop by the information center for brochures and info on the Rockport, MA area.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
No day trip would be complete without a little ice cream!
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Of course, Rockport’s main attraction is the ocean that surrounds it. Every turn showcases the great blue Atlantic from a different angle, and each breeze carries the refreshing, salty air characteristic only of oceanic proximity. Several beaches dot the Rockport coast, so be sure to dip your toes in the water at least once before going home. Or, take a moment to stand at the very end of Bearskin Neck to take it all in. After all, everyone needs a breath of ocean air once in a while.
Rockport, MA
The ocean stretches as far as the eye can see.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Seaside flowers — prettiest in the spring and summertime.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Rockport is still a working fishing town, which only adds to its nautical charm.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
The iconic sailboats of Rockport, MA, look off to the horizon.
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Rockport, MA
Clear weather and clear sailing!
Photo Credit : Bethany Bourgault
Have you ever visited Rockport, MA? This post was first published in 2016 and has been updated. 

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