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.