The picturesque fishing fleet, manned primarily by Portugese and Italian residents of the city, supports a major fish packaging and freezing industry. Gloucester is diverse in its population, with working class and ethnic residents, old wealthy families. Outdoor music is provided through the summer at lovely Stage Fort Park, situated right on the ocean. Check calendar for dates and bands. Built by an eccentric who added a room each year he lived there, it takes about an hour to see.
Harbor views from the grounds are extensive.
Towering over the ocean it was created from facades of ancient houses he bought, dismantled and shipped back to Gloucester from Europe. Hammond hosted many parties there attended by Hollywood celebrities from the Twenties and Thirties. Gloucester beaches are famous for their views, and nice to walk, swim or just relax on. Half Moon Beach at Stage Fort Park, Niles Beach on Eastern Point Road, Pavilion Beach on Stacy Boulevard, Plum Cove Beach on Washington Street, and Wingaersheek Beach in West Gloucester on Atlantic Road. Parking fees apply at Good Harbor and Wingaersheek.