Gloucester, Massachusetts, population 30,000 is a fishing town and one of the oldest settlements in New England. Over-fishing of the previously fertile waters has led to an economic decline in the area, but since the movie, A Perfect Storm, based in Gloucester, tourism has picked up in the area. Located along the coast of Gloucester on Cape Ann is an artists' colony called Rocky Nest, the Hammond Castle Museum featuring European art, and Beauport Mansion, an artful backdrop for local concerts and events.
There are several whale watching boats shuttling tourists out to prime locations for whale spotting. The local area beaches like Wingaersheek in Gloucester, and Pebble and Long Beach in nearby Rockport draw thousands of visitors each year. Gloucester, with its proximity to the waters along Cape Ann, has plenty to offer in terms of boating, swimming, fishing as well as mainland activities including hiking and biking.
Gloucester is located in northeastern Massachusetts along Cape Ann. It is north of Salem and Marblehead and southwest of Rockport.
