Spending a day in Gloucester? If you are wondering what to do in Gloucester to fill your time, you have so many options! This seaside town is a historic gem known for its maritime charm and rugged coastal beauty and is always buzzing with a welcoming, laid-back vibe. Whether planning a trip to the area for a weekend getaway or visiting us at Happy Valley, there are plenty of reasons to stick around. Here’s a guide to the best restaurants and shops in Gloucester and a few ideas for other things to do in the area.
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The Best Restaurants in Gloucester
1. Seaport Grille
The Seaport Grille is easily one of the places to find the best food Gloucester has to offer. This restaurant has waterfront views, and fresh New England seafood, and is highly popular among both locals and visitors alike. While the Seaport Grille specializes in seafood, they also have pizza, signature drinks, and burgers on the menu, so they are a good stopping point if you are trying to please everyone in your group who may be traveling with you.
2. The Causeway Restaurant
The Causeway Restaurant has been a local favorite for over a decade. This eatery is highly praised for its mix of Italian and seafood dishes, including picks like Haddock Augratin and Lemon Pepper Salmon over florentine pasta. The Causeway is also laid-back with a welcoming coastal vibe and has good prices despite the chef-prepared menu. You can also order for take-out if you’re not up for dining in.
3. Duckworth’s
If you are looking for contemporary menu items, fresh seafood, and bistro-style dining, Duckworth’s is the best place. This restaurant has everything from hot soups and sandwiches on the menu to entrées you can pick up to take home, heat up, and eat. A must-try on the menu is the Bistro Meatloaf, which is smothered in mushroom gravy and is one of the most popular entrées on the menu.
4. Stones Pub and Eatery
For those who prefer a casual dining atmosphere in a pub-style place with a full bar and local brews, Stones Pub and Eatery is always a good pick. This restaurant serves a full list of comfort foods that go beyond what you would find in the usual pub fare collection.
The Best Shops in Gloucester
1. Main Street Arts & Antiques
Main Street Art & Antiques is one of those hometown staples in Gloucester that everyone should visit at least once. Located right on Main Street, this little shop has everything from antique glass and clothing to period pieces from local artists and oddities found in vintage closets.
2. The Brass Monkey
Few shops carry a name so memorable, but this little boutique is memorable for more than just its name. The Brass Monkey has jewelry, gifts, fairy garden figurines, home decor, clothing, and more. If you are looking for something unique to help you remember your trip to the area, this shop is a good stopping point for that purpose.
3. Common Crow Natural Market
If you are all about natural foods and supplies, the Common Crow Natural Market is an excellent place to add to your itinerary while spending a day in Gloucester. This health food store has everything from fresh and local fruits and vegetables to craft cheese and meat substitutes, but they also have an extensive variety of natural health products like botanical tinctures and balms.
4. Floating Lotus
Floating Lotus is one of several quirky little places you can find downtown in Gloucester, and you can always find a unique gift or treasure when you stop in. This store offers clothing, jewelry, musical instruments, and interesting items collected from all over the world.
Other Things to Do in Gloucester
- Explore the Cape Ann Museum for local history and art
- Stroll along the Gloucester Harborwalk for scenic views
- Relax at Good Harbor Beach for swimming and relaxation
- Visit the Gloucester Fishermen’s Memorial
- Play golf at the Bass Rocks Golf Club
Plan a Visit to Happy Valley Along the Way
While you are out and about exploring everything Gloucester has to offer, be sure to swing by and see us at Happy Valley. Our dispensary boasts one of the most diverse collections of cannabis in the state, as well as the largest collection of Happy Valley strains and products. In a rush? Feel free to browse our menu, order online, and we’ll get your order prepared for pickup.
