A quick New England getaway for kissing goodbye to summer led me to the artsy coastal town of Rockport in Massachusetts. A favorite vacation spot less than an hour’s drive north of Boston, its popularity thankfully doesn’t dampen its appeal or its photogenic quality.
Get down first to the harbor to feel its pulse and relish in some rare moment of tranquility.
You likely won’t be alone exploring Rockport’s main attraction of Bearskin Neck and that’s all good. The peninsula jutting out into the harbor is full of quirky shops, restaurants and art galleries that seem to put a smile on everyone’s face, making for a very pleasant stroll.
Even if what’s inside the shops doesn’t interest you, the buildings themselves are a fine backdrop to any curious wanderer, with some houses dating as far back as 300 years ago.
Another reason to get excited about a walk in these parts is to join the line at Roy Moore Lobster Co.
The tiny operation has been here since 1918 and is totally worth the hype and short wait. While it might look like takeout-only at first glance, you only need to walk past the jovial employees to find yourself on their back patio. If it’s full, as it often is, you have a scenic harbor perfect for an impromptu picnic.
Order a caught-that-day steamed lobster roll and anything else you fancy (they have clam chowder, shrimp cocktail, smoked mackerel, etc.) and take your lunch outside.
There’s the breeze, seagulls and clapping of the water to accompany this quintessential New England summer meal. And this still being an active fishing harbor, you might also have the chance to observe lobstermen hauling their traps while you enjoy a glorious sample of their catch.
Notice that red fishing shack that seems to hug the spotlight wherever you look? If it seems familiar, it’s no coincidence. What is commonly called “Motif #1” has the reputation of being one of the most painted and photographed building in New England.
The original from 1884 has been destroyed by blizzards and storms over the years but is always rebuilt as the symbol of the town.
Walk to the end of the peninsula to get to “the point” where you’ll enjoy great views of the open seas and passing boats.
From there, get back to the main street for some more shopping, although I much prefer wandering the impossibly cute residential streets for a peek at New England Coastal architecture…
