A rainy day on Cape Ann is never a reason to despair. With a plethora of museums, galleries and shops to choose from, you’ll easily fill your day. Local favorites include Hammond Castle: Beauport, the Sleeper McCann House; Manchester Historical Museum; and the Essex Shipbuilding Museum. If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed, take the family to Cape Ann Lanes for some bowling or visit Cape Ann Art Haven to tap into your creative side. Great memories will be made no matter what activity you choose.

Cape Ann is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and also boasts the Annisquam and Essex rivers, offering endless opportunities to sail, power boat or plan on-river activities. Even if you only have a hour or two, rent a kayak or stand up paddle board, You can also stop by one of the local beaches to swim, snorkel or surf. Have an afternoon to fill. Have an afternoon to fill? Book a whale watch, lighthouse tour, schooner sail, river cruise, private boat or fishing charter. There are so many water adventures available, we recommend turning your “day on Cape Ann” into “A few days.”

Many day-trippers return time and again to Cape Ann simply for the food, the freshest seafood, shellfish and fired clams you’ll find anywhere. Indulge! You can always walk it off on one of the beautiful Cape Ann beaches. Or are you looking for something a little different? Experience the community’s vibrant tradition of Mediterranean cooking ay many Italian and Portuguese eateries, or explore Gloucester’s ever-expanding range of cruise lines spanning from Lebanese to Indian to Chinese. You’ll get hungry just reading through all the wonderful options.

Experience Cape Ann’s thriving multi-faceted art scene by exploring the region’s many gallery spaces and museums where you’ll find the work of renowned masters and emerging artists. Our strong community of makers and artisans organize shows all year round. For a list of cultural fare, visit the Art’s & Culture section of the Cape Ann Guide on page 46and the events calendar on page 41for a schedule of live theatre, gallery tours, art sales and more. Click Here for digital access to the Cape Ann guide

Cape Ann’s four coastal communities each have their own unique downtown shopping areas. Explore treasure-filled antique and gift shops in Essex along the Essex River. Discover the heart of historic Gloucester on Main and Rogers streets, Lexington Avenue and Rocky Neck. Indulge in the galleries in Rockport and add to your art collection, or leisurely weave in and out of Manchester-by-the-Sea’s numerous harborside shops. Each town reflects thew talent and personalities of the area’s artists and shop owners.