Today, Gloucester Harbor and Cape Ann are popular destinations for tourists and vacationers looking for a quiet retreat from the busy world. The City of Gloucester proudly boasts its status as “America’s oldest seaport.” Champlain called it “Le Beauport” when he saw its beautiful harbor with rugged rocky shores.

Visitors to Gloucester Harbor will enjoy awesome natural beauty, colonial history, a picturesque working port, and a world-class art colony. Less than an hour from Boston, Gloucester Harbor offers summer cottages and quaint bed-and-breakfasts where visitors can stay while they explore the historic area of Cape Ann.

You may choose to go on a whale watching trip or charter a boat for some exciting deep sea fishing. You can enjoy a romantic dinner, go to a concert, or attend a show as good as any on Broadway. Visit Gloucester Harbor’s tourism website to find a list of things to do that includes beach combing, bird watching, local cruises and tours, outdoor activities like kayaking, dining, and shopping.

Must sees while you’re in Gloucester Harbor include the well-known Fisherman’s Memorial Statue depicting an “Old Salt” at the wheel of his ship battling a storm. The Rocky Neck Art Colony is the oldest art colony in the US, and it features galleries, bars, and restaurants.

Since Cape Ann is located between two important whale-feeding grounds, the 7 Seas Whale Watching Tour has been operating for more than 25 years to thrill visitors with sights of whales, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds.

Halibut Point State Park, just three miles north of town, recalls Gloucester Harbor’s days as a center for granite. In the summer, you can take weekend tours of the quarry and enjoy granite cutting demonstrations.

You may also want to take a look at the 1922 Paper House, a house built completely from newspapers.

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