Explore Rockport
Step into a classic New England seaside village rich in heritage, art, and maritime beauty. Located right in the heart of Rockport's Cultural District, The Blacksmith Shop Cafe sits steps away from local artisans, coastal galleries, and boutique shops—inviting you to explore and enjoy a lovely walk through town.
Motif No. 1
Discover the iconic red fishing shack resting on Bradley Wharf in Rockport Harbor—widely celebrated as the most painted and photographed building in America. Beyond its legacy in American art, it stays true to its roots as an active, working fishing shack today, making it an essential, unforgettable stop on any visit to Cape Ann.
Rockport Harbor
See that red circle in the photo? That’s us! Both The Blacksmith Shop Restaurant and Motif No. 1 sit directly on the sheltered waters of Rockport Harbor. Sitting right on the water's edge, we give you front-row seats to the bustling harbor—where lobster boats and sailboats bob on the water, seabirds soar, and the ocean breeze makes every meal taste just a little bit better.
Stroll through old stone pits and follow seaside. Explore the historic Babson Farm Quarry and coastal trails winding along dramatic granite ledges. On a clear afternoon, step up to the rocky ocean overlooks for stunning views across Ipswich Bay and the northern coast. In sunny weather, look out across the New England coast from these striking rock faces.
Attend premier musical shows in a magnificent space with a glass wall showing the beauty of the Atlantic SeaExperience world-class concerts and performances in a magnificent space where extraordinary acoustics pair with a signature floor-to-ceiling glass wall, offering a breathtaking, direct view of the Atlantic Ocean.
View regional displays and maritime art pieces honoring the deep creative legacy found within Cape Ann.Explore vibrant galleries and coastal masterpieces celebrating Cape Ann’s rich artistic heritage. Founded in 1921, this historic institution continues to showcase exceptional regional artwork and maritime art.
Bearskin Neck
Roam a legendary lane filled with eclectic shops and studios. The path travels to Motif No. 1 and provides stunning panoramas right to the granite sea barrier.xperience the pulse of Rockport as you explore this historic lane lined with fishing shacks turned eclectic shops and ocean views. Keep an eye out for the historical sign to uncover the legend behind the name "Bearskin Neck"! Watch lobstermen at work and sailboats catching the breeze as you pop into local gems—from the fresh caught lobster at Roy Moore Lobster Co. and cozy book at Susie’s Stories to colorful artwork by Jonathan the Painter and the favorite Hump Day celebration at My Place by the Sea. Walk past Motif No. 1 all the way to the tip of the breakwater for panoramic vistas reaching beyond Pigeon Cove across to Straitsmouth Lighthouse.
Jonathan the Painter: https://jonathanthepainter.com/
My Place by the Sea: https://www.myplacebythesea.com/
