Plan Your Visit
Planning your getaway to Gloucester, Massachusetts is the first step toward experiencing the best of Cape Ann. Whether you’re visiting for a beach weekend, a whale watch adventure, a wedding celebration, or a relaxing coastal escape, Gloucester offers everything you need in one scenic seaside destination. Explore local beaches, book harbor tours, discover fresh seafood restaurants, and find the perfect place to stay—all within minutes of the historic waterfront. With walkable neighborhoods, seasonal events, and breathtaking ocean views, planning your visit to Gloucester is as effortless as it is exciting.
Getting Here
Gloucester is easily accessible by car, train, and air.
By Car
Take Route 128 North, which ends in Gloucester.
By Train
The MBTA Commuter Rail’s Newburyport/Rockport Line provides daily service from Boston’s North Station to Gloucester. Travel time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes and is one of the easiest ways to visit without dealing with traffic or parking.
By Air
The closest major airport is Logan International Airport in Boston.
By Boat
Private charters and select seasonal services may operate depending on the time of year.
Artemis 3 or 4 Hour Sailing Charters
Ravenswood Park
Halibut Point State Park
Thacher Island Twin Lighthouses
Straitsmouth Island Lighthouse
Ten Pound Island Lighthouse
Parking
Metered parking is available throughout Gloucester and can be paid using the Flowbird Parking App or at on-site kiosks. Availability and time limits vary by location.
Public parking is available in several convenient locations, including:
- St. Peter’s Square
- Gloucester House / 7 Seas Wharf area
- I4C2 Lot
- Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce Lot
- Pleasant Street Parking Lot
- Rocky Neck
Visitors are encouraged to follow posted signage for time limits and regulations.
Beach Parking
Parking at Gloucester’s beaches is managed separately and varies by season, with resident and non-resident rates, permits, and capacity limits in place during peak months.
For the most up-to-date information on beach parking, permits, and locations, visit our Beaches & Outdoors page.
Public Restrooms
Restrooms are located at:
- City Hall
- Gloucester House
- Stage Fort Park
- The Cultural Center at Rocky Neck
- Harbormaster Building
Visitor Resources
You've got questions, we've got answers.
How do we get to Gloucester?
Gloucester is easily accessible by car, train, and air.
By car: Take Route 128 North, which ends in Gloucester.
By train: The MBTA Commuter Rail’s Newburyport/Rockport Line provides daily service from Boston’s North Station to Gloucester. Travel time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes and is one of the easiest ways to visit without dealing with traffic or parking.
By air: The closest major airport is Logan International Airport in Boston.
By boat: Private charters and select seasonal services may operate depending on the time of year.
Where can we rent a wheelchair or other medical supplies?
North Shore Home Medical
104 Newbury Street, Peabody
Route1Health.com
978-535-3893
Osborne Medical Supply
59 Essex Street, Lynn
osbournemedicalsupply.com
978-598-3501
Where can I see the Gloucester Fisherman's Memorial
The Gloucester Fishermen’s Memorial is located on Stacy Boulevard overlooking Gloucester Harbor. The statue, often referred to as “The Man at the Wheel,” honors the thousands of fishermen who have lost their lives at sea and is one of the city’s most iconic and photographed landmarks.
Visitors can easily access the memorial by car or on foot. Street parking is available along Stacy Boulevard, and the area is a popular stop for harbor views, walking, and photography. The site is open year round and offers sweeping views of the working waterfront and Gloucester Harbor.
More Questions
Check out our full FAQ’s page for more answers.