Exploring New England -- Rockport

To continue on with our fabulous day on the North Shore, after stalking Norm Abram and visiting Gloucester, we headed to Rockport. To be honest, we didn't really know what to expect here. Dave's co-worker had mentioned that if we were going up that way we should really check out Rockport and at least see Motif #1 (a famous little fishing shack turned artist studio on the pier in Bearskin Neck Wharf .)  So -- off we went.

What we found was more than we expected. This little town is filled with historic homes and a picturesque wharf filled with touristy, artsy little shops and fooderies (I'm not sure if that's a word, but what else do you call places that sell cupcakes, ice cream, pizza, and lobster rolls?)

Of course, the place was hopping with people -- it seems everyone in the northeast part of Massachusetts decided this was the perfect day to get one last breath of summer in by the water. Despite the crowds and lack of parking, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Here are a few pictures taken during the few hours we were there ... as you can see -- it was a beautiful day!

The Smith House -- we parked behind this beautiful home. Built in 1870, it was the home of
John and Ester Gott. John  fought at the battle of Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775.

Side entrance to a home along the main drag. I just loved it.

This little dingy looks so peaceful -- hard to imagine 100 other boats surrounding it!

On the pier -- Motif #1 in the background.

Is that a pirate ship heading out to sea? Actually it is! Pirate Ship Charters

Just a sailboat anchored in the harbor.

Another pretty house along the main drag. I love the porch lights.

A steeple that loomed out above the trees and buildings .

A side view of Motif #1.

Doorway of a little fishing shack on the wharf.

Motif #1.

Motif #1

Just loved the flower boxes outside Rockport Fudgery on the wharf.

The beautiful lights that lined the wharf.

Sun was starting to go down ... notice the lighthouse in the distance.

These little houses lined the side streets along the wharf.

Loved the sign on the gate of The Inn On Cove Hill ...

The Inn on Cove Hill -- might just have to stay here next trip!

Those fooderies I mentioned? Here's a cupcake shop I wandered into ...

After leaving Rockport, we headed home ... we met up with a traffic delay (actually, it was slow-going on the way to the North Shore too!) that made for a long drive. Rascal and Daisy were sure happy to see us and it was good to be out of the car. But what a wonderful day. We can't wait to go back again!