Health

New campaign launched in Gloucester encourages people to be ‘backyard tourists’

GLOUCESTER, Mass. — The North Shore coastal community of Gloucester is promoting “backyard tourism” this summer in an effort to infuse dollars into the local economy.

A new “Re-Discover Gloucester” campaign is appealing to locals to help salvage a late and unusual start to the season.

The campaign encourages local folks to not only eat and shop in Gloucester but also explore the waterfront and other attractions in the city.

Gloucester, which traditionally relies on seasonal tourism, is hoping to evolve under less than ideal circumstances.

“Most often if you live here, you don’t go to the local locations or the tourism based businesses until family comes or you get a guest in your home,” said Elizabeth Carey, Executive Director of Discover Gloucester.

Discover Gloucester, a destination marketing organization, has been collaborating with businesses and city officials to spread the message.

“You can spend an entire day here and feel as though you have been on vacation,” said Lenny Linquata, owner of the Gloucester House restaurant and the Blue Collar Lobster Company. “Those who can adapt will find this as an opportunity.”

Locally owned businesses have shifted their focus to cater to those living nearby.

Some say they’re encouraged by the support they’re receiving from people within the community.

“We’re relying on locals to save the season for these small businesses,” said Heath Ellis, owner and captain of the Schooner Thomas E. Lannon.

Health Ellis offers public sailing and private charters on scenic Cape Ann. He told Boston 25 News that bookings from people across the North Shore and other nearby areas are a promising sign.

“There’s definitely been an influx of folks from around here,” explained Ellis. “There’s a lot of people who have opened up their little groups, and they’re isolating in groups of 10. That’s what we’re catering to.”

Ellis said he’s also starting to see some interest from neighboring states, including Connecticut and Rhode Island.


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