A seaside community like Gloucester is fantastic to visit in the fall! The summer crowds are gone, the leaves are vibrant and colorful, and the air is crisp and fresh. If you’re looking for things to do in Gloucester, MA away from the hustle and bustle, we’ve got you covered.
Fall Foliage in the Park
New England has some truly stunning foliage, and a stroll through Ravenswood Park on a crisp fall day is ideal. Take a couple hours out of a busy schedule, pack some snacks, put on your walking shoes, and enjoy the vibrant leaves as you contemplate nature. With over 600 acres of beautiful wilderness and ten miles of carriage paths and trails, you’ll find peace and solitude as you leaf-peep, picnic, and bird watch.
Visit The Cape Ann Museum
If you’re an art, history, or culture lover, you need to make a trip to the Cape Ann Museum. The Museum is a complex of buildings which includes galleries, a library, an auditorium, an education room, two historic houses, and two sculpture gardens. You’ll see stunning land and seascape paintings, collections from historic local artists, contemporary art, and incredible sculptures.
Dine on Local Seafood
When you’re in a renowned fishing port, you have to try the seafood. Luckily Gloucester House Pub is open from October through May, offering fresh, locally-sourced seafood and other tasty traditional dishes. Warm up on a cool day with lobster, clam chowder, baked stuffed clams, and apple crisp. It’s a meal fit for Neptune himself!
Unbeatable Ocean Views
Late fall is frankly a beautiful time of the year to look at the ocean. The air is cool and clear, the glare from the sun is minimal, and the ocean turns a stunning shade of blue you just can’t get in the summer. It makes the perfect backdrop for Eastern Point Light. The DogBar Breakwater next to the lighthouse is open all year, with stunning views of the lighthouse station, Gloucester Harbor, and the Boston skyline.
Walk Your Dog Along the Beach
Beaches might be great for swimming in the summer months, but it’s the off-season that’s best for dog-owners. If you’re hoping to have a stroll in the sand while your dog splashes in the water, you’ll want to stop by these two beaches.
Good Harbor Beach
With the summer crowds gone, leashed dogs are allowed on Good Harbor Beach from October 1st to March 31st. You and your pup will love the stunning white sands and gentle ocean waves. During low tide you can even walk out to Salt Island, though make sure you don’t take too long, otherwise you’ll be doing the doggy paddle on the way back.
Wingaersheek Beach
On Wingaersheek Beach, your dog gets a bit more freedom to run and play. Unleashed dogs allowed October 1st to March 31st on odd-numbered days, so your dog can fetch, go swimming, and have a puppy playdate. You can enjoy a stroll along the water while your dog explores the outcropping of rocks, or get some friends together for a fall picnic and watch the dogs play. Just make sure you bring towels to dry them off.
If you’re looking for a good time in Gloucester, don’t limit yourself to just summer break – take advantage of the freedom and cooler weather and plan your next trip for fall!
