Echoes of the past are hidden around every corner of Cape Ann, and visitors can explore the region’s hundreds of historic homes, grand monuments and businesses–all with centuries of tales to tell. If you’re in Gloucester, take a stroll on the self-guided HarborWalk to see many historical sites and then continue to Stacy Boulevard for a moment with the Gloucester Fisherman. A stone’s throw from Stacy Boulevard is Cape Pond Ice, established in 1848, and still providing tons of ice to the fishing fleet daily. In Rockport, tour historic downtown along main street and pass by some of the first homes built by English settlers in the 18^th century. For a taste of colonial New England, visit Essex’s Cogswell’s Grant to discover a restored 1728 farmhouse containing a collection of American folk art or explore early American cemeteries and examples of 17^th century vernacular architecture in Manchester and Ipswich. Learn more about the region’s history by visiting essexherritage.org/attractions.

Whether solo or with a friend, spend a day recharging your body and mind. Pack a picnic from Common Crow Natural Marketplace or Seaview Farm. Bring your yoga mat, favorite book or journal and exhale in one of Greater Cape Ann’s many serene locations. You may drawn to the idyllic Dog Bar Breakwater at Eastern Point Lighthouse in Gloucester, Masconomo Park & Tuck’s Point in Manchester-by-the-Sea, Back Beach in Rockport, the Stavros Reservation in Essex, or the Iconic Crane Estate in Ipswich. If you would rather meditate indoors, find your Zen at Treetop Yoga, Saltwater Massage Studio or Soft Touch Salon. Treat yourself to a day of revitalization in the Greater Cape Ann region.

Feed your body, mind and soul simply by putting one-foot in front of the other and exploring one of Greater Cape Ann’s many scenic trails. If you’re in Rockport, pack your knapsack and head on over to Halibut State Park. Essex Features the Millstone Hill Conservation Area, Cox Reservation and Cogswell’s Grant; Manchester-by-the-Sea, the Agassiz Rock Trail and Coolidge Reservation. Local favorites in Gloucester are Ravenswood Park and Dogtown Common (where Gloucester was originally settled). Ipswich is home to Appleton Farms, Willowdale State Forest and Strawberry Hill. These trails all offer beautiful vistas, trails for all abilities and ample opportunities to get away from it all and appreciate the Greater Cape Ann region’s natural beauty.

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.