Tag: Tour

Last Saturday, I was lucky enough to participate in the first ‘Taste Gloucester’ walking tour. The tour highlighted downtown restaurants and food shops, with a dash of history thrown in.

Patrick Halloran, a Gloucester native who now serves as a fireman in Somerville, served as our tour guide. He graduated GHS in 2002 and his love for Gloucester was apparent as he proudly told us various tales from Gloucester’s history. Patrick himself was a highlight of the tour, with his friendly personality, sense of humor and depth of knowledge.

The tour started at the Fitz Hugh Lane House on Harbor Loop and ended at Turtle Alley Chocolates. Along the way we visited the Topside Grill, Virgilio’s, Intershell’s Fish Market and the Cape Ann Brewery—just to name a few. We enjoyed food samples prepared just for us, shopping opportunities, as well as great customer service by the local shopkeepers. At other stops we learned about the history of the Greasy Pole, the tale of Howard Blackburn, and the history of the Universalist Church. Check out the video for more details.

Who is this tour best suited for? Locals who want a fun and delicious way to spend a few hours; locals who have guests visiting; and tourists and newcomers who need an introduction to the downtown area. I guess what I am saying is, this tour is for everyone! J Personally, I had never shopped The Cave or Intershell’s Fish Market, and thanks to the tour, I will be a returning customer at both places.

Because the ‘Taste Gloucester’ tour is a new (and fun!) venture, it is sure to evolve and grow. Patrick, the owner, is open to feedback and ideas. For more information on how to sign up for a tour visit www.tastegloucester.com. Bon appetit!