welcome to
Greater Cape Ann
ESSEX ~ GLOUCESTER ~ IPSWICH ~ MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA ~ ROCKPORT
Welcome to GREATER CAPE ANN! Within this website, you’ll find information highlighting the five communities that define this fun, diverse, and historic coastal region: Essex, Gloucester, Ipswich, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Rockport. While they share a coastline, each offers its own unique and remarkable capacity to make memories, whether you’re visiting for the first time, have recently relocated, or have lived here a lifetime.
Just under an hour north of Boston, Greater Cape Ann offers stunning beaches, waterfront recreation, eclectic dining options, and a wealth of seasonal, authentic New England experiences—all year long. For centuries, it has inspired fine artists and writers, while offering a challenging livelihood to generations of fishermen. In the following pages, you’ll understand how these five towns form this special corner of the world.
The greater Cape Ann region is located on the traditional and ancestral homeland of the Pawtucket people, as well as their neighbors, the Massachusett, Nipmuc, Penacook, and Wampanoag tribes. It is also one of the earliest-settled regions in America, with multiple communities preparing their 400th anniversaries in the upcoming years. These anniversaries are momentous occasions for the region and also honor the Native and Indigenous peoples who have lived in this territory for more than 10,000 years, and who will continue to do so for generations to come. As different as each town is from another, the essence of community and generosity of spirit that pervades is found in each smile, handshake, and “Come on in, how are you?” that you’ll encounter.
Essex
Essex, so filled with adventures. Explore the Essex River by boat or kayak, with its panoramic views of vast salt marshes. On land, stroll the causeway for a bit of history and browse Essex’s famed antique shops for treasures. Perhaps you’ll be tempted by a plate of fried clams in the town where they were invented.
Gloucester
Gloucester, now 402 years old, is proud to be America’s oldest working seaport. Learn about Gloucester’s maritime history at the Cape Ann Museum and Maritime Gloucester, or by watching today’s working fishing boats while walking along the inner harbor. Gloucester’s vibrant arts and culture scene is reason alone to visit.
Ipswich
Ipswich, you may think it’s one of those towns you drive through enroute to your destination, yet it’s a destination all on its own. This seaside town is home to a diverse natural landscape, from marshes and sandy beaches to farmland and forests. Its architecture as varied as the landscape, many of the oldest homes in the region remain.
Manchester-by-the-Sea
Manchester-By-The-Sea, its calming vibe and welcoming nature is why it remains a popular destination to visit or call home. One of the town’s signature attractions is Singing Beach where, yes, the sand actually sings. And hiking is glorious and contemplative all year-round along Coolidge Reservation.
Rockport
Rockport, its quintessential New England charm escapes no one. Here you’ll find captivating art galleries and will understand why artists and visitors alike have fallen under Rockport’s spell. If you paint or write and crave solitude, Rockport allows you the space and the freedom to create.