Looking for a quick getaway? Let yourself be charmed by the lovely coastal town of Rockport, Massachusetts. You’ll love stuffing your face with lobster rolls while admiring the artisan shops in this iconic New England town.
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A magical road trip to Cape Ann
Before heading to the United States, remember to bring your passport and get travel insurance with soNomad in just a few clicks! Pack your bags, fill up your car, and embark on this incredible road trip. Rockport awaits with its charm and delights, about a five-hour drive from Montreal.
To get there, take your usual route south and then follow routes 127 and 127A. Head to Rockport on Cape Ann! You’ll discover breathtaking landscapes, unique historical monuments, and an incomparable maritime atmosphere. With more varied landscapes and just as much charm as Cape Cod, Cape Ann is a magical place with many white-sand beaches.
Arriving in Rockport
Once you arrive in Rockport, you’ll feel completely immersed in the unique vibe of New England. It’s a famous destination for its colourful wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and iconic fishing harbour.
This town’s past as a “dry town” makes it even more unique. From 1856 to 2005, it was forbidden to sell alcohol in Rockport, giving the town a particularly peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere compared to other East Coast towns with many bars for sailors. Nowadays, you can enjoy a drink without any problem in one of the many bars and restaurants.
Must-do activities in Rockport
Spot the famous Motif No. 1 fishing shack
Start your visit by spotting Motif No. 1, the lovely red fishing shack that is said to be the most painted building in the United States! You should easily find it on the main pier. Take the time to photograph it from different angles; it’s the heart and symbol of the town.
Stroll along Bearskin Neck
Next, stroll down Bearskin Neck to discover all the artisan shops, where you’ll find unique treasures to take home. It’s the perfect place to find authentic souvenirs, such as artisanal soaps, handmade candles, and nautical decor that will evoke your stay in Rockport. The cobblestone streets and colourful little shops add a touch of magic to every corner.
Sunbathe at Front Beach
Rockport also has a beach accessible on foot from downtown: Front Beach. It’s the perfect place for a quick dip or a walk along the coast, but it can get crowded in the summer, and the sand is average.
If you want really lovely beaches, you’ll have to leave Rockport and go to Wingaersheek Beach, Good Harbor Beach, or Half Moon Beach. For these, you need to reserve and pay for your parking space days in advance.
Discover the “public footpaths”
One of the highlights of Rockport is that even though there are many private residences, you can find tons of public footpaths that lead either to the sea or to a beautiful viewpoint. In fact, there’s a path that will give you a view of the harbour and the rocky arm opposite—it’s so beautiful!
Indulge in a Lobster Roll at Lobster Roller
For an authentic culinary experience, stop by Lobster Roller. They serve the best lobster rolls in the region. The portions are generous, and every bite is pure delight. Make sure to add this foodie stop to your itinerary!
Step back in time at Mill Pond
Just a short walk from Front Beach, in the heart of Rockport, you’ll discover a small preserved natural paradise. It feels like stepping back in time! Stroll along the stone path that crosses the stream and enjoy the charming trails for spotting turtles. It’s the perfect place to chill, picnic, or simply appreciate the serene beauty of the place.
Sip coffee and enjoy harbour vibes
Take a break at Bean & Leaf Cafe, a favourite for its breathtaking view and cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re a coffee or tea lover, you’ll find your bliss while enjoying a magnificent setting.
Do I need travel insurance for a weekend in Massachusetts?
You’re probably wondering if getting travel insurance for a day or weekend in the States is really necessary. Well, let me tell you that even for a day, it can be worth it!
Imagine spraining your ankle on one of Rockport’s cobblestone streets. Without travel insurance, this little mishap could cost you a little fortune.
Even for a short getaway, unexpected events can happen, and medical costs in the United States can be exorbitant.
Fortunately, with travel insurance, you could get coverage for emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, 24/7 emergency assistance, and even emergency evacuation and repatriation, all for a price as low as a latte.
So, even if you’re only planning one or two days in Massachusetts, consider getting travel insurance from a company like soNomad. It’s a small expense that could save you a lot of money and hassle in case of an unforeseen situation.
To give you an idea, it cost me only $3.75 for one day with soNomad! That’s so affordable, there’s no reason to skip it.
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