Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1342831
NORTHSHOREMAG.COM 38 MARCH 2021 FAC E S + P L AC E S and a snack at Allie's Beach Street Café or the Laughing Gull and stroll over to Masconomo Park to watch boats cruising in and out of the harbor, or continue a half-mile up the street to the famed Singing Beach. If you feel like shopping, browse Cuddlefish boutique for gifts for mother and child, explore the towering piles of used books at Manchester by the Book, or hunt for a great bargain at The Stock Exchange, an exceptionally well curated consignment shop with whimsical window displays. If you're after more natural beauty, follow route 127 towards Gloucester and visit Coolidge Reservation, a pleasant wooded trail that leads to a sweeping oceanside lawn, or get even further off the beaten path by popping into the downtown hardware store for a trail map of the Manchester-Essex conservation areas. Up the road from Manchester-by-the-Sea is Essex, a town rightfully best known for its profusion of antique shops: More than 20 are in operation along one short stretch of route 133, offering everything from curated collections of high-end furniture to piles of knick-knacks you'll have to dig through to find that perfect, unique treasure. But don't be so distracted by the vintage values that you forget to take in the stunning view of the Essex River winding through the Great Marsh. Consider grabbing a drink or a meal—weather permitting—on the patio at Great Marsh Brewing Co. or local favorite CK Pearl to relax at a comfortable social distance while you enjoy the scenery. The biggest town—actually a city—on Cape Ann is Gloucester, the iconic fishing town that has both a long artistic heritage and deep working-class roots. The downtown is packed with independent shops selling new and used books, cheese and wine, handmade pasta, the work of local artisans, and almost anything else you can imagine. "The vast majority of the businesses here are mom-and-pops," says Kory Curcuru, founder of the The Bridge Cape Ann, a community social media company based in Gloucester. "There aren't a lot of big boxes and franchises here." As you stroll the downtown, keep your eyes open for the art that is such a part of Gloucester's character. There are galleries MUST-DO: S H O P + R E N E W Beauport Hotel A bar and restaurant with outdoor seating and gorgeous ocean views, a newly opened spa, and 94 luxurious rooms all make the Beauport an ideal destination for lunch and drinks or a weekend escape. 55 Commercial St., 978-282- 0008, beauporthotel.com Antiquing in Essex With more than 20 antique shops along one mile of road, Essex is the ideal destination for all things vintage. Try Andrew Spindler Antiques to browse a curated collection of upscale pieces or Howard's Flying Dragon to unearth a hidden treasure. Route 133, Essex The Paper Mermaid Owner Mary Faino's background as an artist is evident in this whimsical shop stocked with unique stationery (some featuring Faino's own designs), imaginative art kits, and colorful, creative gifts. 57 Main St., Rockport, 978-546-3553, papermermaid.com Rockport Candle Co. Choose from handcrafted soy candles featuring dozens of different ocean-inspired fragrances or book a DIY session and customize your own perfect evocative scent. 5 Bearskin Neck, Rockport, 978-675-6001, rockportcandlecompany.com Cuddlefish A charming boutique stocked with the cutest baby apparel, the most useful gear, and a few indulgences for Mom as well, from jewelry to skincare products. 26 Central St., Manchester, 978-704-9120, cuddlefishmanchester.com PHOTOGRAPH BY ANTHONY TIEULI Great Marsh Brewing Co. in Essex offers ample outdoor seating in warm weather.