Where to Stay

• Atlantis Oceanfront Inn, 125 Atlantic Road, Gloucester, Mass.; 800-732-6313; http://atlantisoceanfrontinn.com. With unobstructed views of the ocean, this quaint hotel sits on Gloucester’s rocky coast and serves up a delicious homemade breakfast seven days a week.

What to Do

Eastern Point Lighthouse, located at the end of Eastern Point Road, Gloucester, Mass. Ignore the private road signs (visitors to the lighthouse are permitted) and head out to this awe-inspiring lighthouse that was erected in 1832. Hold on to little hands if you take a walk on the breakwater – the views are worth it!

• Hammond Castle, 80 Hesperus Ave., Gloucester, Mass.; 978-283-2080; http://hammondcastle.org. This haunted, medieval-style castle with secret passageways and an indoor courtyard with a pool, was home to inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr., “The Father of the Remote Control,” and his wife, Irene. It serves as a backdrop for his collection of Roman, medieval and Renaissance artifacts.

• Stage Fort Park, Hough St., Gloucester, Mass. Includes Half Moon Beach, a sheltered, sandy beach with gentle waves and ample sea creature viewing potential; Cressy’s Beach, a rocky beach that’s great for throwing rocks into the ocean and finding sea glass, and an up-to-date playground.

• Toodeloos, 137 Main St., Gloucester, Mass.; 978-281-2011. When window shopping on Gloucester’s historic Main Street, be sure to visit this fun toy store that caters to children’s imaginations.

Where to Eat

• Latitude 43, 25 Rogers St., Gloucester, Mass.; 978-281-0223; www.latfortythree.com. Who knew an elegant seafood and Japanese restaurant could also be kid-friendly? Their menu will satisfy even the pickiest of palettes.