James Russell Goldsmiths
This lovely spot features handcrafted jewelry by Russell, his father, Peter Russell, and metalsmith Abbie Tew. Peter Russell is also a painter, and some of his work is featured here.
15 Bearskin Neck, 978-546-1695
Brothers Brew Coffee Shop
With fresh pastries made on-site (including the best apple turnover I’ve ever had), coffee by Black Bear Micro Roastery in Tuftonboro, New Hampshire, and a friendly staff, this is a great place to stop for a break.
27 Main Street, 978-546-3775
R. Lerch Gallery
The entrance is tucked away down a serene-looking path, and the gallery is “low pressure,” meaning you won’t be hassled as you peruse photographer Robert Lerch’s work.
22 Bearskin Neck, 978-546-7797
Toad Hall Bookstore
This beloved Rockport institution is a nonprofit, with proceeds going to projects benefiting the environment. The floors are recently redone, and the children’s section downstairs feels like an oasis.
47 Main Street, 978-546-7323
Tuck’s Candy & Gifts
Another spot to purchase Tuck’s wonderful fudge. Like the name says, there are gifts, too.
15 Main Street, 978-546-6352
Thacher Island
This island, located about a mile off Rockport’s coast, features the Twin Towers lighthouses. The North Tower is closed (for now), but the South is open. Plus, there’s a museum, and three miles of groomed walking trails. To get there, take the launch or rent a kayak and paddle your way over.
617-599-2590
Rockport Golf Club
This shortish (par 70), semi-private course is open to non-members on weekdays and after 3:30 p.m. on weekends and holidays. The greens’ fees are reasonable and the course is well-maintained.
36 Country Club Road, 978-546-3340
Halibut Point State Park
On a clear day, you can see Crane Beach in Ipswich to the Isle of Shoals to Mt. Agamenticus in Maine. From Memorial Day to Columbus Day, there are tours of the quarry.
Gott Avenue, 978-546-2997
mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/massparks/region-north/halibut-point-state-park.html
Pebble Beach
The pebbles are (mostly) smooth on this stretch of beach, and there’s a reef that divers can explore. There’s limited parking on Penzance Road.
Rockport Art Association & Museum
The Association’s mission is to make fine art accessible to everyone. The RAA promotes classes, lectures, exhibitions, and more. Check the website for museum hours and more information.
12 Main Street, 978-546-6604
Rockport Public Library
This lovely library is something of a local hangout, with a meeting room and reading rooms. You’ll find writer John Kieran’s personal collection and movies are available in the Brenner Room. Plus, there’s a community jigsaw puzzle in progress that’s always at some stage of completion.
17 School Street, 978-546-6934
Roy Moore Lobster Co.
Fresh lobster, oysters on the half shell, stuffed clams, and more, all reasonably priced, all fresh. There’s a back deck with views of the water. Talk about a must-do!
39 Bearskin Neck, 978-546-6696
facebook.com/Roy-Moore-Lobster-Co-125287641097
Rockport Garden Club’s 2017 “Rockport in Bloom” Annual Garden Tour
This self-guided tour takes visitors through 11 gardens in three Rockport neighborhoods. This year, there will be artists working in the gardens, too. July 7-8.
For more information, visit rockportgardenclub.org/GardenTour.html
Paper House
Yes, this entire house is made of paper. There’s a piano made from paper inside, and a desk made from the Christian Science Monitor. Needless to say, there’s no smoking.
52 Pigeon Hill Street, 978-546-2629
Bearskin Neck Country Store
Candy, candy, candy!
40 Bearskin Neck, 978-546-3620
bearskinneck.net/bearskin-neck-country-store/
Nate’s at Front Beach
This seafood shack is a great place to eat after a swim at Front Beach.
18 Beach Street, 978-546-0055
StudioCrepe
This distnctive café concept in Cape Ann is conveniently located next to the train, offering fresh, trendy fare in a casual bistro environment.
17 Railroad Ave., 978-999-5927
Art Longwood Books
Owner Jeffrey Postel’s cozy, quiet, and immaculately kept shop features books that, like the space itself, are immaculate. You’ll also find vintage pulp paperbacks in excellent condition.
33 Broadway #3, 978-309-8531
abebooks.com/art-longwood-books-rockport-ma-u.s.a/3322842/sf
Old Sloop Coffeehouse
The “Old Sloop” is the nickname of the First Congregational Church of Rockport, and the coffeehouse an outreach project. The Coffeehouse features live music and coffee by Equal Exchange.
12 School Street, 978-309-9667
Lauri Kaihlanen Gallery
Kaihlanen’s art is bright and colorful, and he prides himself on being affordable.
61 Bearskin Neck, 978-546-9818
facebook.com/LauriKaihlanenGallery