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Offered languages
- English
Explore the coastline of Gloucester and Rockport, Massachusetts, with this self-guided GPS audio driving tour of Cape Ann. Discover the rich history of Cape Ann as you visit iconic sites like the medieval Hammond Castle Museum and picturesque Halibut Point State Park. Learn about the granite industry's fascinating past and the artistic legacy of local painters like Fitz Henry Lane while enjoying stunning views along Route 127 and 127A. This tour allows you to explore at your own pace, making it perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.
- Self-guided tour covering 25 miles of scenic coastline
- Visit historical sites like Hammond Castle and Eastern Point Lighthouse
- Flexible pacing allows for stops at beaches, museums, and trails
- Family-friendly, suitable for all ages and no 4WD required
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The tour starts at the parking lot of the Hammond Castle. You'll hear a story about it, then be guided out of the parking lot for our tour.
The tour ends at the Cape Ann Museum Green where you'll hear the story and be in Gloucester.
Itinerary
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Hammond Castle Museum (Pass by)
The tour starts at the parking lot of the Hammond Castle. You'll hear a story about it, then be guided out of the parking lot for our tour.
Admission ticket free -
1Stage Fort Park and Beach
Stage Fort Park marks the site where English fishermen established the settlement that eventually became Gloucester. Visitors can enjoy harbor overlooks, historic markers, walking paths, picnic areas, beaches, and some of the best views on the tour.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
This historic marker commemorates the 1623 fishing settlement that helped establish the Massachusetts Bay Colony. It provides an important introduction to Gloucester’s early European history and its connection to the Atlantic fishing industry.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
The iconic Man at the Wheel statue honors the thousands of Gloucester fishermen who never returned from the sea. Its inscription and harbor setting make it one of the most moving and recognizable memorials in New England.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
The Blynman Canal provides a shortcut between Gloucester Harbor and the Annisquam River and is often described as one of the earliest canals dug in North America. Watch boats pass beneath the drawbridge while enjoying views of Gloucester’s historic waterfront.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Captain Solomon Jacobs Park
This small harborfront park honors legendary Gloucester fishing captain Solomon Jacobs, once known as the King of the Mackerel Killers. The park offers waterfront views and easy access to Maritime Gloucester.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Eastern Point Lighthouse
Located at the entrance to Gloucester Harbor, Eastern Point Lighthouse has guided ships since the 19th century. The surrounding coastline, harbor entrance, and views toward Dog Bar make it one of the most scenic lighthouse stops on Cape Ann.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
Bass Rocks offers dramatic views of waves breaking against Cape Ann’s ancient granite shoreline. The striking light, exposed ledges, and open ocean have attracted artists including Winslow Homer and Edward Hopper.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Good Harbor Beach (Pass by)
Good Harbor Beach is one of Gloucester’s most popular beaches, known for soft sand, Atlantic surf, and views toward Salt Island. At low tide, visitors can sometimes walk across the sandbar toward the island.
Admission ticket free -
8
View the historic Straitsmouth Island Lighthouse from the mainland near Straitsmouth Cove. First established in 1835, the light warns vessels away from dangerous reefs and ledges near Rockport Harbor.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9Rockport
Drive through and explore the historic, artsy must see town of Rockport and hear it's story.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10
Back Beach offers a rocky shoreline, harbor views, and a clear look toward Rockport’s famous Motif Number One. It is also popular with scuba divers because of its easy shore access.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
11Motif #1
This red fishing shack is one of the most painted and photographed buildings in America. The current structure is a faithful replica of the original, preserving the symbol that helped define Rockport’s artistic identity.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
12
This historic pier once loaded Cape Ann granite onto schooners bound for Boston, New York, and other East Coast cities. Today, the site offers open-ocean views and a direct connection to Rockport’s industrial past.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Cape Ann Museum & Cam Green (Pass by)
The tour ends here at the parking lot.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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