We just received a fantastic, detailed “New England travel tips article” from Ariane Doud, of Matter Communications, writing about family-fun activities and attractions in the wonderful, small North Shore coastal city of Gloucester, Mass. Thanks, Ariane, for this great info, which we are confident will be quite valuable to those looking for family things to do during February vacation. Without further ado, here’s Arianne’s Gloucester “Winter Break” travel article with many low-cost travel ideas:

In less than 2 weeks, February 21-25, kids are out of school for a week and parents are challenged with planning a vacation that’s fun for the whole family, yet fits in the household budget. If a tropical vacation just isn’t in the cards this year, I invite your readers to explore “the Other Cape” – Gloucester, Massachusetts — an affordable destination for New England families. Gloucester, the heart of Cape Ann, is easy to get to with less time in traffic (and more affordable prices) than that other Cape to the South.

Gloucester, the nation’s most authentic seaport, has plenty of activities for kids:

Lodging:

1.       Cape Ann Marina Resort provides an affordable, well-tended getaway spot right on the Annisquam River, with easy access to downtown Gloucester. Spend time relaxing at the hotel’s indoor, glass enclosed year-round chlorine-free pool and Jacuzzi. Enjoy a relaxing treatment from the Spa menu or participate in a Wellness Class including Yoga and Pilates!

2.       Want a more home-like setting? Try one of Gloucester’s bed & breakfasts, many set in historic homes, with low winter rates. Two of the best: Julietta House and Harborview Inn,

–          Kick back with a book. The Bookstore of Gloucester (on Main Street) specializes in children’s books about brave fishermen, friendly whales, wily pirates and other tales of the deep blue sea.  Dogtown Books (also on Main Street) is a treasure trove of rare and gently used books on every subject under the sun, with a children’s nook filled with old and new favorites.

–          In an active mood? Enjoy snowshoeing, sledding, cross country skiing or hiking in one of Gloucester’s beautiful parks, including Stage Fort Park, or along well-marked trails in Ravenswood or historic Dogtown Common.

–          Cold and gloomy day? No problem. At Glazed! Pottery Studio, kids can paint their own pottery – lighthouses, whales, seashells or the famous Gloucester “man at the wheel” – and take them home for a souvenir of their trip to Gloucester. Pieces sell for as low as $5. Or, drop in for a Family Open Studio at Cape Ann Art Haven, including a project organized by an instructor, followed by time to explore & experiment with everything the studio has to offer. A great time to hang out with the family and get the creative juices flowing!

–          Spend the day shopping along Gloucester’s historic Main Street, filled with locally-owned boutiques, art galleries, antique shops and cafes. In the evening, enjoy a wide range of dining, from local seafood specialties at the Gloucester House or creative cuisine and sushi at Latitude 43, to authentic Mexican delicacies at Jalapenos or a taste of Boston at the Franklin Cape Ann.

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Editor’s note: if you have a free or inexpensive New England-related February School Vacation event you’d like to have published at The Thrifty New England Traveler, please email us. Thanks!