There’s something special about the light here. Find out why artists from around the world are drawn to one of America’s first artist colonies: Gloucester’s Rocky Neck. Stroll through artist galleries and studios nestled on this Cape Ann peninsula. Talk to the artists and watch them work. Grab lunch on the water overlooking a working fishing harbor. Rocky Neck is one of America’s oldest art colonies, supporting an impressive number of year-round working artists. The district is home to numerous galleries and restaurants as well as the critically acclaimed Gloucester Theatre Company. Venues offer a calendar of special events like Nights on the Neck and the Rocky Neck Artist Ball. A dynamic new cultural and visitor center also recently opened. The Rocky Neck Cultural District is one of seven state-designated Cultural Districts within the Essex National Heritage Area. Find all of them here.
Address
6 Wonson St. Gloucester, MA 1930
Driving Directions
To get to Rocky Neck, drive northeast on route 128 to Gloucester. Go through two rotaries, staying on 128. Then go straight, through two traffic lights, and up the hill onto East Main Street. Stay on East Main for about a mile, bearing right at the bottom of the hill, and follow East Main as it curves around the harbor. Many artists and businesses are located along East Main in the East Gloucester Arts District. Turn right onto Rocky Neck Avenue, park in the public parking lot, and explore the many shops and galleries on the Neck.
Notes & Advisories
Categories
- Cultural Resources
- Historic Resources
- Museums
- Walking & Hiking
Accessibility
- Self-Guided