Things to do in Rockport

7 Seas Whale Watch

Hammond Castle Museum

Hammond Castle Museum is located on the rugged Atlantic coastline of Gloucester, Massachusetts, USA. The castle was built between 1926 and 1929 by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., a pioneer in radio remote control technology known as the "father of remote control." This stone castle blends medieval, Gothic, and French half-timbered rural architectural styles. It originally served as both his private residence and a radio research laboratory. Hammond amassed a vast collection of antiquities from Europe, including ancient Roman relics, medieval sarcophagus carvings, and stained glass. The courtyard pond with a glass ceiling is a highlight of the museum. From the outset, he planned to convert the estate into a museum, which officially opened to the public in 1930. The castle terrace offers views of the Atlantic coastline. Today, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and stands as a unique attraction along the New England coast, showcasing both the history of science and medieval antiquities.

Good Harbor Beach

Stage Fort Park

Halibut Point State Park

The park is situated on a headland, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Its coastline is rugged and varied, with massive rocks and striking geological formations. You can stroll along the shore to watch waves crashing against the rocks and feel the power and beauty of nature. Beyond the coastline, the park has a rich natural ecosystem. The park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including seabirds, marine life, and wildflowers.

Wingaersheek Beach

Half Moon Beach

Crane Beach

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in New England

Boston Duck Tours

Boston Duck Tours is a highly recognizable amphibious sightseeing attraction on the streets of Boston. The vehicles used are dual-purpose, modeled after the amphibious landing vehicles of the US military during World War II. They can navigate through city streets and directly enter the river, allowing travelers to experience both a city tour and a cruise in one itinerary. This makes it especially suitable for first-time visitors who want to get a comprehensive impression of Boston in a short time. The itinerary features live commentary by the driver and on-site guide, passing landmarks such as the golden-domed State House, Boston Common and Public Garden, the shop-lined Newbury Street, Copley Square, Trinity Church, the Prudential Tower, and the historic districts around Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall. Just when you think you've seen all of Boston, the driver makes a splashdown into the Charles River—the moment the vehicle hits the water is the highlight of the tour. The vehicle then cruises slowly along the river, offering views of the skylines of Boston and Cambridge, which is also a great time for photos. A signature interactive tradition on board involves every passenger receiving a duck-bill-shaped "quacker" whistle. When encountering another duck tour vehicle or waving crowds on the street, everyone blows their whistles in response. The chorus of quacking has been a hallmark of this tour for years, and families with children particularly enjoy this playful experience.

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in New England

Harvard University

Harvard University is one of the world's most famous institutions of higher learning and a tourist destination rich in history and culture. The campus centers around Harvard Yard, where red-brick walkways, ivy-covered walls, and classical buildings constructed over the centuries intertwine. The Johnston Gate on the west side of Harvard Yard is considered the main entrance, and a short walk into the yard brings you to the John Harvard Statue. This statue is known as the "Statue of Three Lies" because the inscription on its base contains three inaccuracies. Many tourists touch the statue's left foot for photos, a habit that has polished the bronze foot to a shine. Across the lawn from the statue stands The Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library, a grand building donated by the mother of an alumnus who perished on the Titanic. Memorial Church is the only building in the yard with a spire, and its walls are inscribed with the names of Harvard students who died in World War I. Memorial Hall is famous for its ornate stained-glass windows, and its freshman dining hall is often compared to the Hogwarts dining hall in "Harry Potter". Massachusetts Hall, built in the early 18th century, is one of the oldest surviving buildings on campus. Harvard Square is one of the bustling neighborhoods in Cambridge, packed with bookstores, cafes, and various shops. The area around the campus also features the Harvard Art Museums, which house a collection of European and American art ranging from classical to modern works, including self-portraits by Van Gogh and paintings by Monet.