Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (2024)

Rockport + Newburyport are two coastal gems that you should absolutely visit if you’re in the Greater Boston area. You can even visit both in the span of a day!

Both have charming downtowns, gorgeous views of Cape Ann, and lots of treats to try and little shops to pop into or window shop. Don’t miss their adorable town squares and super-Americana vibe.

We recommend a visit year-round, but the summers are truly special here. Nothing beats spending a sunny afternoon here. Read on for our top 5 things to do in each place!

Situated at the tip of beautiful Cape Ann, Rockport is without a doubt our favorite town in coastal Massachusetts. Located about an hour north of Boston by car or commuter rail (Newburyport/Rockport line), Rockport is the perfect day trip from Boston, and one we recommend in any season!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (1)

Rockport Top 5:

  1. Take a stroll down Rockport’spicturesque streets and window-shop along theBearskin Neck. Rockport is renowned for being home to one of America’s oldest art colonies, boasting dozens of unique and charming galleries. Fun fact: the area is said to be called the “Bearskin Neck” because early colonists had a pretty big bear problem, which they then had to push back onto the “neck” part of the peninsula.
  2. Relax by the water, walking along Rockport’s aptly rockyOld Stone Fortarea, or rent a kayak and paddle along in the water itself. The Old Stone Fort protected the newly-independent U.S. from British incursions by sea in the War of 1812– back then called the “Sea Fensibles Barrack.”
  3. Snap some photos or perhaps sit and sketch Rockport’s iconic Motif #1, (pictured) a delightful red fisherman’s shack said to be the U.S.’s “most-painted landmark.”
  4. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, you have a few options.
    You can get an excellent ice cream cone (pictured) atThe Ice Cream Store, located in an antique cottage, or if you’re fancying something warm, there’s always piping hot apple strudel atHelmut’s Strudel.
    If you’d rather grab some lunch, check outRoy Moore Lobster Companyfor a laid-back outdoor seating destination where you can pick your own lobster and crack it open yourself. Melted butter drizzled on top is a must!
  5. Check out nearbyHalibut Point State Park, a beautiful conservation area and state park with gorgeous views of the sea. On a clear day, you can see Maine’sMount Agamenticus 80 miles away!

Located very close to Rockport, Newburyport has been inhabited since 1635. It has a storied maritime history, and its seaport provides for the town to this day, still employing many residents in sea-related and industrial trades. Newburyport is absolutely charming, and definitely worth pairing a visit with Rockport.

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (2)

Newburyport Top 5:

  1. Newburyport’s downtown area is adorable, and you should absolutely spend some time strolling around. Don’t miss theWaterfront Park‘s boardwalk, where you can walk alongside the Merrimack River or perhaps sit for a bit and people-watch on one of its waterfront benches. If you’re in the mood for a museum, check out theCustom House Maritime Museumnearby to learn about Newburyport’s storied maritime history and the origins of the town’s significant role in the maritime industry.
  2. For more outdoorsy things to do, pay a visit toMaudslay State Park, theParker River Wildlife Refuge, and theBartlet Mall.Maudslay State Park was formerly a privately-owned estate, and its stately 19th century inspired gardens definitely feel like a throwback to that era. The Parker River Wildlife Refuge is a fabulous place for some bird-watching, and theBartlet Mall has been in use since the 1600s, when early settlers used it as a grazing area for their sheep. It now features a lovely Frog Pond, and restoration works are actively underway to restore it to how it may have looked in the 1600s.
  3. Check out the Plum Island Light House. Also known as the Plum Island Light or the Newburyport Harbor Light, this lighthouse dates all the way back to 1788, when it was lit with whale oil!
  4. You can also visitPlum Island Beachnearby. Located very close to downtown, Plum Island Beach is a lovely place for a beach day if you aren’t planning to visit Gloucester or other beach areas on Cape Ann. Note: don’t miss the antique (and yes, pink!)Plum Island Pink Houseas you drive out!
  5. If biking is more your speed, you’ve got to check out theClipper City Rail Trail(though of course you can walk it as well.) It starts at the commuter rail station and new extensions extend it all the way to the riverfront.

For more Boston-area and New England content, check out Why Not Walk’s Boston landing pagehere.

Pin our guide for easy planning!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (3)

Tegan

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16 comments

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (4)

Divya Hegde September 6, 2020 - 9:56 am

Great post! I would love to visit this place sometime 🙂

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (5)

Tegan September 8, 2020 - 9:31 am

Thanks Divya!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (6)

Durga September 7, 2020 - 9:28 am

Great article! love Boston and surrounding areas. Hope COVID ends and we can travel again!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (7)

Tegan September 8, 2020 - 9:31 am

Yes, crossing our fingers!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (8)

Saptarshi September 8, 2020 - 3:53 pm

As usual your post is Rocking just as Rockport! 😀
I love your idea of highlighting not so mainstream destinations!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (9)

Tegan September 8, 2020 - 4:02 pm

There is so much right in our backyard to explore– if there’s been one not-so-awful thing about COVID it’s been that we’ve really been exploring the not-so-mainstream places nearby!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (10)

Steph September 8, 2020 - 4:06 pm

I had never considered Boston on my US roadtrip plans but now I will be sure to add it to my itinerary. Great pictures and very detailed post

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (11)

Tegan September 8, 2020 - 4:18 pm

We’re partial of course, but think Boston has tons to offer! Hope you can do that roadtrip soon!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (12)

Urge to XPLORE September 8, 2020 - 4:17 pm

Another great write-up. MA is really wonderful.

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (13)

Tegan September 8, 2020 - 4:18 pm

We’re biased, but agreed!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (14)

Penelope September 8, 2020 - 6:23 pm

I have never been to Boston, looks like a place I would like to visit. 😊

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (15)

Tegan September 9, 2020 - 9:17 am

You should definitely check it out! 🙂

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (16)

Jamie Sharpe September 9, 2020 - 8:28 pm

I miss Boston soooo much!

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (17)

Tegan September 9, 2020 - 9:46 pm

Hope you can come back for a visit soon! 🙂

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (18)

Daniella September 10, 2020 - 11:44 am

Every time I read one of your blog posts I’m even more intrigued by Boston and New England – I’m definitely going to have to visit soon.

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (19)

Tegan September 10, 2020 - 12:12 pm

Yes! Hope you can visit soon, we’d love to share all our tips with you!

Comments are closed.

Rockport + Newburyport: Boston Day Trips » Why Not Walk? (2024)

FAQs

Is Newburyport walkable? ›

Newburyport is Somewhat Walkable

Some errands can be accomplished on foot.

Is Newburyport, MA worth visiting? ›

The seaside destination is known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, museums, cafés and restaurants in the city center. Nearby are vast beaches, marshes and farms for those seeking an escape into nature as well.

Does Newburyport have a downtown? ›

Seated on the Merrimack River, Newburyport has a scenic harborside boardwalk, charming downtown, and an abundance of history that makes it a perfect destination for a daytrip or longer.

Why is Newburyport famous? ›

With history dating back to the 1600's, Newburyport was well know for shipping and shipbuilding. Now, thanks to our devoted preservationists and historians, Newburyport museums, historic tours, monuments and festivals allow us to learn and respect our cities past.

Can you walk on Plum Island? ›

The Walking Tours of Plum Island, led by Bill Sargent of Plum Island Outdoors are wonderful way to explore and learn about this beautiful and fascinating barrier island.

Why is Newburyport expensive? ›

Residing in Newburyport is 13% more expensive than the rest of Massachusetts, however this is mainly due to the city's housing market. Newburyport's housing market is considered to be very competitive with homes being sold within 26 days of it being first listed.

Can the public go to Plum Island? ›

Plum Island Beach is a beautiful New England barrier island offering locals and visitors an opportunity to explore, play and relax.

Does Plum Island have a boardwalk? ›

The Hellcat Boardwalk Trail Trail, often referred to as the Hellcat Interpretative Trail for its planked pathway, is located in Plum Island's Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. The trail, which is handicap accessible and appropriate for kids and adults alike, offers a guided experience and breathtaking views.

How long is Newburyport Rail Trail? ›

The Clipper City Rail Trail (3.3 miles, paved) connects the MBTA commuter rail station to the Harborwalk along the waterfront. A newer section follows the bank of the Merrimack River to Water Street and connects through the South End under High Street to Parker Street in Newbury.

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