Point of Interest – The Gloucester HarborWalk

Gloucester HarborWalk: The Best Way to Experience a Vacation in One of America’s Historic Towns

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The historic city of Gloucester, Massachusetts, is one of the country’s most charming vacation getaways, and the HarborWalk is a major part of the town’s appeal. Not only does this multi-use trail run through the city’s scenic waterfront, it also offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of Gloucester.  The Gloucester HarborWalk extends nine miles from the waterfront to the northern end of the city. It is divided into five sections known as the North End, Dock Square, Lighthouse Trail, and South End. In addition to being the best way to explore the city’s scenic waterfront, the HarborWalk also offers visitors access to local restaurants, museums, and historical landmarks. The following article contains information about the best way to explore the trail, its attractions, and the best ways to spend your time when in Gloucester.

What is the Gloucester HarborWalk?

The Gloucester HarborWalk is a 6.5-mile trail that stretches from the city’s waterfront to the southern end of the city. The trail is divided into five sections called the North End, Dock Square, Lighthouse Trail, South End, and Center.  The North End is the trail’s northernmost section, and it starts at Comb’s Wharf near the city’s historic district. It then follows the waterfront before turning inland and ending at the historic district. The Center section is located at the city’s heart, and it stretches from Dock Square to the city’s central train station. Up next.

Why Visit the Gloucester HarborWalk?

Visitors can walk the trail for many reasons. The most obvious reason is the city’s natural beauty. The trail runs along the Atlantic Ocean and just west of the water is the city’s historic district. The district is filled with Colonial-era buildings, and it is also home to some of the city’s top museums and restaurants.  Visitors who like history can also appreciate the trail’s architectural and historic features. The trail features brick sidewalks that were built in the 1800s, granite streetlights that are more than 200 years old, and two granite bridges that date back to the 1800s.  The HarborWalk also offers many opportunities to experience the culture and food of the city. Visitors can stop at restaurants and pubs to enjoy warm beverages and local food. Many of the pubs on the trail also offer live music, and they often serve food that is inspired by local fish and seafood. More info here.

Best Time to Visit the Gloucester HarborWalk

Weather can be unpredictable in Gloucester during spring and fall. These seasons have warm temperatures, but storms also come with high winds and flooding. In general, the HarborWalk is most photogenic during spring and fall. This is when the weather is warm and dry, but it is also when the fall foliage is changing. Spring is also when the flowers are blooming, and it is when you can enjoy the walk without the threat of heat stroke.  Visitors should also bring water shoes and insect repellent to the trail during the summer and early fall. Summer is also when mosquitoes are most active. Visitors should also be wary of falling branches and tree roots on the trail. Some areas are susceptible to flooding, and there are some areas that are very narrow.

Walk the Gloucester HarborWalk

There are several ways to walk the Gloucester HarborWalk. The most common method is to walk the path from Comb’s Wharf to the city’s historic district. Comb’s Wharf is the northernmost part of the trail and it features a historic lighthouse. The historic district is accessible by car, and it is located in the city’s close-in neighborhoods.  Visitors can also take the North End Lighthouse Trail, which is not part of the HarborWalk. It is a 3.4-mile path that starts at the North End and ends at the Gloucester Lighthouse. The trail ends at a tower with a view that overlooks the water. Visitors can walk to the top of the lighthouse tower for a panoramic view of the harbor.

Take a Biking Cruise

The Western Scenic Railroad offers scenic train rides that are only a short drive from Gloucester. The train ride takes visitors along the Connecticut coast, and it ends at the city’s historic district. Because it is possible to take the train to the historic district, it is also possible to take a walking tour of the harbor.  Visitors can also take one of the many harbor cruises that are available in Gloucester. This includes a cruise that follows the HarborWalk and a cruise that follows the Mattatuck Trail.

Explore the Historic District

Visitors can visit Gloucester’s historic district and enjoy the walk at the same time. The district is filled with Colonial-era buildings, and it is also home to some of the city’s top museums and restaurants.  The district is home to the Mattatuck Museum, the Mattatuck Historic Site, the Glover House, and the People’s Maritime Museum. Visitors can also walk along the banks of the Mattabagas, which is Gloucester’s largest river.  The Mattabagas is the only river in the state that runs through a city. The river is filled with wildlife, and there are also several parks along the banks. Visitors can enjoy the walk, take in the scenery, and take in some of the city’s history at the same time.

Where to Stay Near the HarborWalk

The Mattatuck Museum is one of the city’s most visited museums, and it is also right near the HarborWalk. The museum is filled with items from the Mattatuck Indians, and it is a short walk from Comb’s Wharf. The city’s historic district is also filled with hotels.  Visitors can book a room at the Gloucester Inn. This colonial-style inn is located in the city’s historic district and it is near the harborWalk. Visitors can also book a room at the Holiday Inn Express and the Comfort Inn in the city’s close-in neighborhoods.

Where to Eat Near the HarborWalk

There are many restaurants near the HarborWalk, but the following are a few of the best options. The Lighthouse Grill is a pub that is open for lunch and dinner. It is located right near the North End Lighthouse, and it is open daily. The Lighthouse Grill is known for its seafood and steak, and it is located in the city’s historic district.  The Gloucester Lobster Company is located in the city’s close-in neighborhoods, and it is known for serving fresh seafood that is sourced from the Matt