As the leaves begin to fall and the beach days dwindle here on Cape Ann, there are still plenty of activities to do, and sites to see, as we remain seaside this autumn. Check out our bucket list of things to do on, and around, Cape Ann this fall!
Farmers Markets
Farmers Markets are the best way to get an idea of the seasonal, local culture, and a taste of the bites and brews here on Cape Ann. Lucky for us, there are multiple Farmers Markets in our neighborhood. Be sure to check out the Cape Ann Farmers Market at Stage Fort Park onThursdays 3:00pm-6:30pmuntil October 10th (walking distance), and theRockport Farmers MarketonSaturdays 9:00am-1:00pmuntil October 19th! As the harvest arrives on Cape Ann, popular autumn crops include; apples, squash, turnips, pears, sweet potatoes, beets, sunflowers, pumpkins along with those mouth-watering apple and pumpkin baked goods.
Hammond Castle
If you’re looking to get into the spirit of Halloween here on Cape Ann, Hammond Castle’s “Halls of Darkness” tour is a must-do activity. VisitHammond Castle on Friday or Saturday nights during the month of October for a spooky experience that turns the historic Hammond Castle into a haunted house like no other. The seaside estate is a must-see on it’s own, but this season guests will be able to explore what brings nightmares come to life. According to their site, Hammond’s favorite time of year was undoubtedly October.
Hammond Castle, Photo:Fine Art America
Cape Ann Plein Air
A unique and beautiful festival here on Cape Ann during the fall is the Cape Ann Plein Air painting competition and festival. This year’s festival takes place October 6th – October 14th throughout our very own picturesque seaside towns and communities. For those who are new to the plein air painting scene, Cape Ann Plein Air is a nationally recognized arts organization that brings some of the best artists in the nation to Cape Ann for a competition that focuses on open-air paintings of the beautiful, natural landscapes in our area. The idea of plein air painting began in France, but was brought to Cape Ann in the early 1800s because of our beautiful, rugged, natural landscapes and sweeping ocean views. For a complete list of events check out capeannpleinair.com.
Cape Ann Plein Air, Photo:Northshore Magazine
Stage Fort Park
Walking distance from our hotel is the beautiful Stage Fort Park. Although many locals know it as a beautiful summer destination with beaches, volleyball courts, picnic areas and incredible views, it can be just as beautiful in the fall. Take advantage of this local stroll as the leaves begin to change to the warm yellows, reds and oranges that travelers flock to New England to see every autumn. Be sure to check out the foliage along the scenic seaside trails and feel the cool ocean breeze, first hand at Stage Fort Park.
Salem, MA
All aboard to the Witch City. Just a short ride away via the easily accessible Commuter Rail lies Salem, Massachusetts. If you haven’t been to Salem during the haunted season of Halloween, you’ll be amazed at what this historic New England town has to offer. From the Salem Witch Museum to Halloween-themed cruises, ghost tours, horror festivals, fireworks, pumpkin decorating, crazy costumes, and their entire Haunted Happenings Festival with events occurring daily throughout the month of October, you’ll surely find something spooky to accommodate your likings this fall in Salem.
Connors Farm
Break out your coziest sweater to experience the best of fall in New England, all in one day, as you take a drive off of Cape Ann to Connors Farm. A less-spooky fall activity, located only about 25 minutes from our hotel, is the largest corn maze you’ll ever encounter in Danvers, Massachusetts. The “Fun On The Farm” 7 acre corn maze will have you mesmerized amongst apple picking, barnyard animals, campfires, corn hole, pumpkin picking, hayrides, zombie paintball and much more.
Russell Orchards
For the complete apple picking experience, take the more scenic route to Russell Orchards in Ipswich, Massachusetts. Russell Orchards is a family owned and operated 120 acre fruit farm located just about 20 minutes from our location here at Beauport Hotel. Along the way you’ll see ocean views, marshland, our small neighboring towns and plenty of foliage. With Honeycrisp, Gingergold, Gala, McIntosh and Cortland apples open for picking, along with fresh fruits, vegetables and eggs in their on-site store, Russells might be the perfect autumn day-trip to take advantage of upon your stay.
Russel Orchards, Photo:Hillary Furrow
Autumn on Cape Ann Room Package at Beauport Hotel
From scenic hiking trails to apple picking farms and so much more, Cape Ann has everything you need to experience a perfect New England getaway during Autumn. Guests who book this seasonal special offer will receive:
– $25 off our best available midweek rates.
– 15% off voucher to 1606 Restaurant each night of stay.
– A fall-themed welcome amenity upon check-in.
In addition, our hotel’s shuttle and convenient location near the MBTA Commuter Rail makes it simple for those looking to experience the surrounding area.
