ramoram

Hi everyone.
My family and me are planning to spend Christmas Vacations in Boston and since we are going to rent a car Rockport popped uo while looking online.
Do you think this town worths a two days visit?
If so could you recommend lodging?

Thanks in advance.
Ramón

djkbooks

Rockport is a "seasonal" destination, so much will be closed over the Christmas holidays.

Nearby, and year-round, destinations, just as beautiful, seaside towns include Salem and Newburyport. Also nice, and year-round, is Portsmouth, NH.

Some seaside towns are an easy ride on the commuter rail from Boston, so you wouldn't have to rent a car. See www.mbta.com

soccr

Also consider Marblehead - a little more history, a little more convenient to Boston.

gail

Rockport is beautiful at Christmas time. Bearskin Neck, the little shopping area that is somewhat touristy but many locals shop at the little unique non-chain stores. It is usually wonderfully decorated at Christmas.

Most restaurants will be open - many take their annual vacation in Jan/Feb.

However besides shopping and looking at the ocean, which can be beautiful in the winter, not sure what else you would do. I might consider a 2 day/1 night visit.

I agree that Portsmouth and Newburyport might also be options. I am not a fan of Salem - too hokey (except for Peabody Essex Museum).

Ralphie

I've spent the weekend in Rockport during late November, there was plenty still open at that time.

If you rent a car you can easily drive to the neighboring towns along the water--they're lovely.

Cassandra

Yes, don't miss the art museum in Salem!

Is Rockport worth 2 days? Not the town itself, surely; but there are excursions all around Cape Ann and inland, and it's not a bad base for those. As for food, most people eat at least one meal in Essex to get renowned and fresh seafood. Too often, seaside restaurants-with-a-view don't actually serve what's caught locally.