Rockport, Massachusetts: Historic and Naturally Beautiful

This summer has been amazing on the North Shore. I just don't want it to end, but I can feel the cool mornings are bringing fall much sooner than I would like. However, today was what summer should be; sunny, 78 degrees and only a few wisps of clouds in the sky.

I decided to take the train for a quick 40 minute ride north to Rockport. I had never been to the village before and heard it was similar to Gloucester but not filled with as many tourists. Although the weather brought out many sightseers. The streets were really filled with locals enjoying Sandy Bay and nearby Cape Ann.

View from Atlantic Avenue

Sandy Bay was colonized in 1692 and local seafarers were instrumental in holding back the British in the war of 1812, capturing a ships, cargo and crews.

Bearskin Neck is one of the main streets dotted with restaurants, art galleries, and shops. There are three main streets in town and several walks you can take. 

I chose the Bearskin Walk down Bradley Wharf where I ate outside enjoying the sun and cool breeze, at My Place on the Sea (delicious Portuguese fish stew and a Belgium beer). Then I walked down Main Street and the The Atlantic Path from the village center.

You can tell many of the shopkeepers live above their stores just like in Salem. Many of the older homes have been preserved and are rented out for the summer. I'm going to enjoy the weather for as long as I can. I know the winds of winter are coming.

Here's a few pics to stimulate the senses.

After lunch I had to stop here!

Just hanging out

Love these wildflowers