Why not Gloucester?

A clothing boutique interior featuring a pink velvet armchair, a distressed mint-green side table with jewelry displays, a large colorful painting of a woman in traditional attire, a lamp with a beige shade, and hanging black and polka dot clothing. The scene includes wooden wall paneling and a slat wall for displaying clothes.
Metal sign for Gloucester Brewing Co. attached to a brick building with a window.
An assortment of sushi rolls arranged on a plate, garnished with a pink flower, green parsley, and a small glass of soy sauce.

Why not explore Main Street, Gloucester?  

You might be surprised to discover all the offerings in our downtown! Going all the way back to the beginning, our historic and picturesque Courthouse dates back to the late 1600s. You’ll be able to see history up close when you visit the original Courthouse, the Clayton and Roane Buildings, as well as the old debtors’ prison.

Learn about the history of our town in the Gloucester Museum of History exhibits at the Botetourt Building, just off the Courthouse Circle. For fun, imagine yourself as a Courthouse judge or prisoner!  Gifts are available at the Visitors Center, if you would like a souvenir from your visit. 

Wander down our beautiful Main Street and you’ll soon discover a variety of boutique shops and restaurants. For hearty American fare, dine at Olivia’s, or head to Sweet Tooth for great salads, sandwiches, and desserts. Try Bangkok Noi for delicious Thai food, or Porter’s on Main for fine dining. For a fun and casual outing, stop by the Gloucester Brewing Company for a beer. Want something to take home? Stop to buy fresh fish and produce at Ware Neck Produce, or peruse the extensive wine selection and specialty meals at Kelsick Specialty Market.  Whatever your taste, you’ll find something to enjoy!

As you walk, experience the gorgeous public artwork commemorating the cultural, social, and economic history of our community: murals of Pocahontas, TC Walker, as well as the Watermen, Bees on Main, and of course, Daffodils; plus the sculptures which highlight our town and the surrounding environment. Enjoy the planted hanging baskets and daffodil banners which line our streets. Take time to chat to the shopkeepers, and ask them why they choose to be on our Main Street—you’ll be amazed how strong the support is for our local business owners!

People wait in line at a bar or restaurant counter, with a sign overhead that says 'Order Here'.
A colorful gallery wall featuring multiple vibrant, framed, modern artworks. The first artwork is a large canvas filled with numerous stylized, diverse people's faces in bright colors. The subsequent pieces are varied in style and color, including pixelated and abstract designs.
Person reading an informational signboard about T.C. Walker in front of a mural depicting a large wooden pipe.

For a complete map and listing of Main Street areas to explore please download our guide