Have you ever wanted to experience authentic New England coastal small town living?  If so, visiting the Cape Ann area in the summer is is a must do.  I’m not bias, I promise.  I’m actually a south shore girl.  If you aren’t from the Boston area that means I’ve spent majority of my life visiting Cape Cod in the summer.  It hasn’t been until recently, probably pandemic induced, that I’ve taken the time to explore areas outside beautiful Cape Cod.  Towns north of Boston like Gloucester, Rockport and Essex are overflowing with culture, history, cuisine and natural beauty.  Last week I was invited to explore the Cape Ann area with a group of bloggers and writers thanks to Cru of Two PR for putting together such a fabulous trip.  In this post I’ll share some things to do as well as where to stay and places to check out!  If you are ever in the area I hope you find this post helpful!  

Where To Stay

I can’t say enough amazing things about our accommodations at the Beauport Hotel in Gloucester.  This was my second time staying here.  In quarantine, we took a night away for our anniversary and got a room with an ocean view.  It felt like we were 100’s of miles away from home even though it was just an hour drive!  High quality service, beautifully coastal inspired design aesthetic, great food and again the views are stunning!  Don’t forget your swimsuit, there is a rooftop pool, hot tub and bar!

Things To Do

Here are some of the things I’ve done and enjoyed during my visit to the Cape Ann area…

• Bubble Factory – Learn how to blow glass
• Downtown Rockport– Adorable shopping and cafes right on the water
• Halibut Point State Park– Beautiful hike to ocean’s edge. Large rock formations
• Cape Ann Museum – learn about the artists and fishing history of the area
• Go on a Sail
• Relax with a Massage

Blow glass

If you get a chance to check out the Bubble factory definitely go! It was so amazing to see this craft in action. Learning about the process and actually getting to try it was so cool. But actually it was HOT very hot inside the workroom with the kilns going. Dress in layers or light weight clothing I made the cutest little glass bowl that I can enjoy as a keepsake from this special experience.

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We had everything we needed for a day of glass blowing, exploring and lunch in our Parker Clay backpacks. I love that this company has such a great mission. Check them out here and use my code Jordecor10!

Take a hike

Halibut Point State Park was a really cool hike that led to the coast with huge rock formations. Really cool maybe better suited for older kids some parts were very high up and the rocks were a bit tricky to climb over. We loved the views. Ben and I did this in the fall on our Anniversary trip.

Sail away

If you can get out on the water for a little boat ride I highly recommend it. We did a private sail with our group this past trip. You can schedule via https://schooner.org/. Something about getting out on the water that is just so relaxing. Pack some snacks and drinks, play some music and just take in the beauty of the coastline.

Our Chappy Wraps kept us feeling so warm and cozy while the sun went down. It’s always a little cooler on the water so pack in layers for sure. These blankets are perfect for cooler summer nights and my new favorite gift giving idea! Also thanks to Sperry for outfitting us with our boat shoes. They have the coolest new designs out now that are super on trend. I loved the chunky white sole and heel. The nude color goes with everything too!

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This colorful light weight cashmere sweater is perfect for an extra summer layer from Vineyard Vines it really made me feel warm and ready for an evening boat adventure. Paired with these Sperry boat shoes it doesn’t get more classic New England.

Connect with inner Artist

Learn about the historic fishing communities and how they inspired the work of famous artists like Henry Fitz Lane at the Cape Ann Museum. This was the perfect way to end this little trip to Cape Ann!

Places to Drink and Dine:

• Tonno Restaurant – Italian
• Minglewood Harborside– Seafood/ Sushi
• Great Marsh Brewing Company – Amazing brews and hard seltzers
• Lark Fine Foods– Amazing local company perfect for gifting treats from your travels
• Sweet Magnolias – Breakfast
• Castaway Vintage Cafe – Great coffee shop with vintage store
• Virgilio’s Bakery- Yummy Italian bread and sandwiches
• Blue Collar Lobster House – Classic New England

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If you’ve ever thought about visiting this area north of Boston I definitely recommend it! So much to do and see, you’ll enjoy being so close to the water and experiencing the history of this fishing community. I really hope you get a chance to visit someday! Let me know below if you have any other favorite things to do or places to eat! Thanks again to all the amazing sponsors of this trip!

Happy Traveling,

Jordan

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