8:00 AM – Begin Your Journey from Northeastern University

Getting There:

• By Train: Take the Orange Line from Ruggles Station to North Station, then board the MBTA Commuter Rail (Newburyport/Rockport Line).

Duration: ~1.5 hours

Cost: $11.50 (one-way)

• By Car or Rideshare: A 50-minute drive offers more flexibility. Parking is ample in Gloucester and Rockport.

Pro Tip: If taking the train, arrive early for a window seat and enjoy the scenic coastal views.

9:45 AM – Breakfast at Sugar Magnolias

Google Map - Here

Rise and shine, students! Ready to fuel up for your Cape Ann adventures? Head straight to 📍Sugar Magnolias, Gloucester’s beloved café that knows how to do breakfast right. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into their legendary blueberry cornmeal pancakes or conquering the veggie scramble, this is the kind of delicious kickstart that says, "Carpe diem!"—or at least, "Pass me the syrup.”

• Cost: $10–$15 per person
• Directions: From Gloucester Station, walk 10 minutes to Sugar Magnolias on Main Street.
• Travel Time: A 10-minute walk from Gloucester Station

Pro Tip: Arrive early to beat the mid-morning crowd and snag a cozy window seat overlooking Main Street.

10:30 AM – Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial & Harbor Walk

Google Map - Here

Start with a laid-back stroll to the 📍Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial—because nothing says iconic like a statue that’s weathered more storms than your Wi-Fi during finals. After that, wander along the scenic Harbor Walk, where interpretive signs will dish out fascinating tidbits about Gloucester’s maritime past.

• Cost: Free
• Directions: From Sugar Magnolias, take a leisurely 15-minute walk to Stacy Boulevard to reach the Fisherman’s Memorial.
• Duration: 1 hour
• Photo Tip: Visit on a sunny day for stunning harbor views and Instagram-worthy shots of the memorial.

11:30 AM – Explore Rocky Neck Art Colony

Google Map - Here

Students, prepare to unleash your inner art critic! At the 📍Rocky Neck Art Colony, one of America’s oldest art colonies, you’ll dive headfirst into Gloucester’s artistic roots. Stroll through charming galleries bursting with coastal-inspired artwork and crafts—because nothing says “cultured” like nodding thoughtfully at a painting of a lobster.

• Cost: Free to explore (optional purchases)
• Directions: From the Fisherman’s Memorial, drive 10 minutes to Rocky Neck Art Colony. Parking is available nearby.
• Travel Time: A 10-minute drive from Fisherman’s Memorial
• Hidden Gem: Look for unique handmade jewelry and New England-inspired paintings.

12:45 PM – Lunch at The Gloucester House

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If you’re craving seafood fresher than your latest excuse for missing class, set sail for The 📍Gloucester House. This waterfront gem serves up legendary clam chowder and lobster rolls that could make even a pirate shed a tear. Add in the lively maritime vibes, and you’ve got a dining experience that’s basically a seafood party on the harbor!

• Cost: $20–$30 per person
• Directions: Drive 5 minutes (or walk 15 minutes) from Rocky Neck Art Colony to The Gloucester House, located on the harbor.
• Travel Time: A 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk

Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a local craft beer for an authentic Cape Ann experience.

2:00 PM – Scenic Walk at Halibut Point State Park

Google Map - Here

Halibut Point State Park is calling your name. 📍Wander trails around an old granite quarry (because who doesn’t love a side of history with their hike?) and soak in those panoramic ocean views. It’s the ultimate spot to unwind, recharge, and pretend you’re in a nature documentary.

• Cost: Free
• Duration: 1 hour
• Directions: From The Gloucester House, drive 15 minutes to Halibut Point State Park in Rockport. Free parking is available on-site.
• Travel Time: A 15-minute drive from Gloucester

Pro Tip: Visit during low tide to explore tide pools teeming with marine life.

3:15 PM – Stroll Through Rockport’s Bearskin Neck

Google Map - Here

📍Bearskin Neck in Rockport This historic street is packed with boutiques, galleries, and cozy cafés to satisfy both your retail therapy and caffeine cravings. And don’t forget to snap a pic with Motif No. 1, the iconic red fishing shack that’s basically the Beyoncé of art subjects.

• Cost: Free to explore (shopping extra)
• Directions: From Halibut Point State Park, drive 10 minutes to Bearskin Neck. Public parking lots are available in the area.
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Travel Time: A 10-minute drive from Halibut Point

Photo Tip: For magical shots of Motif No. 1, visit during the golden hour for the best lighting.

5:00 PM – Coffee Break at Bean & Leaf Café

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Cap off your day with a relaxing stop at 📍Bean & Leaf Café on Bearskin Neck. Enjoy coffee or tea with a fresh pastry while soaking in harbor views.

• Cost: $5–$10 per person
• Directions: Bean & Leaf Café is located right on Bearskin Neck, a short walk from your shopping stops.
• Travel Time: A short walk along Bearskin Neck

Pro Tip: Opt for outdoor seating for the perfect blend of people-watching and waterfront serenity.

5:30 PM – Return to Boston

Google Map - Here

Options:

• By Train: Depart from Rockport Station on the MBTA Commuter Rail (~1.5 hours).

Directions: Walk 10 minutes to Rockport Station and board the MBTA Commuter Rail.

• By Car: Drive back to Boston (~50 minutes)