Westport Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more in Westport, Massachusetts. Plan your trip with our ultimate guide.


Introduction to Westport

Westport is a charming coastal town located in SouthCoast, Eastern Massachusetts. It is a hidden gem that offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With a population of just over 15,000 people, Westport is a small town with a big personality. The town boasts of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and a welcoming community that will make you feel at home.

List of Places to Visit in Westport

There are plenty of exciting places to visit in Westport that will leave you mesmerized. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Westport has it all. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Westport:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Westport Historical Society: This museum is the perfect place to learn about the town’s rich history. The museum has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that chronicle Westport’s evolution over the years.
  2. Handy House: The Handy House was constructed in 1712 and is one of the oldest houses in Westport. Visitors can tour the house and learn about the fascinating stories of its former inhabitants.
  3. Lees Market: a local staple since 1947, this family-owned and operated is a landmark of Westport community.

Natural Attractions of Westport: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Horseneck Beach State Reservation: miles of sandy beachfront, the calm waters of Buzzards Bay, and stunning sunsets, perfect for a quiet day by the beach.
  2. Westport Rivers Vineyard: Nestled along the Westport River, this picturesque vineyard is the ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon among the vines.
  3. Gooseberry Island: This small island is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and wildlife watching. It is home to a wide range of bird species, including seagulls, ospreys, and egrets.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Westport

Westport offers visitors an array of hiking and biking routes that allow them to explore the town’s natural beauty. Here are some of the popular hiking and biking trails:

  1. Shining Sea Bikeway: This 10.7-mile bike trail, starting from Falmouth, runs through Westport and ends in Woods Hole. The trail’s scenic views make it a popular destination for cyclists.
  2. Horseneck Point Trail: This 1.8-mile trail has stunning views of the beach and is a great spot for bird watching.
  3. White Oak Trail: This 3.6-mile trail meanders through a historic farm and offers great views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Westport: Activities and Tours

Westport boasts of numerous activities and tours that offer visitors an opportunity to experience the town’s unique culture and natural beauty. Here are some of the best things to do in Westport:

  1. Westport Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday, the Westport Town Farm transforms into a bustling farmers’ market that offers locally grown produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
  2. Kayaking Tours: Westport River Watershed Explorer offers guided kayaking tours that allow visitors to explore the town’s waterways and observe the local wildlife.
  3. Westport Art Group: The Westport Art Group offers classes and workshops for aspiring artists. They also host exhibitions throughout the year showcasing the works of local artists.

Week-Long Itinerary for Westport

Looking to spend a week exploring Westport? Here is an ideal itinerary for your visit:

Day 1: Visit the Westport Historical Society and the Handy House. Day 2: Take a scenic drive along the countryside and visit the White Oak Trail. Day 3: Check out the local food scene, with a visit to Lees Market and a stop at the Westport Farmers’ Market. Day 4: Explore the Horseneck Beach State Reservation and take a dip in the ocean. Day 5: Take a tour of the Westport Rivers Vineyard and relax in the vineyard’s stunning surroundings. Day 6: Go bird watching and kayaking along the Westport River. Day 7: Spend the day enjoying the town’s art scene, including a visit to the Westport Art Group.

Food and Drink Scene of Westport

Westport is home to several fantastic eateries that offer a range of cuisine to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood or international cuisine, Westport has got you covered. Below are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Lobster Roll: Westport is famous for its lobster rolls made with fresh seafood.
  2. Portuguese Stew: This hearty stew is a popular dish in the town and can be found at several local restaurants.
  3. Clam Chowder: No visit to the East Coast would be complete without trying a bowl of clam chowder.

Local Beverages

  1. Wine: Westport Rivers Vineyard is known for producing some of the finest wines in the region.
  2. Beer: Buzzards Bay Brewing produces some exceptional beers, from IPAs to stouts.
  3. Cider: Shovel Town Brewery makes some of the best ciders in the area from locally sourced apples.

Where to Stay in Westport: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Westport offers visitors a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cottage or a luxury hotel, Westport has something for everyone. Some of the best accommodations in Westport are:

  1. The Back Eddy: Located on the riverfront, this hotel offers stunning views of the Westport River. Rooms are spacious and elegantly designed.
  2. The Westport Inn: A colonial-style inn located in the heart of Westport. This inn offers cozy rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
  3. Stonehaven House Bed & Breakfast: This charming B&B is situated on a farm, just a short drive from the town center. Rooms are comfortable and decorated in a classic New England style.

What to Buy in Westport: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Westport is known for its locally made products and souvenirs that make for great gifts. Here are some of the best items to buy in Westport:

  1. Westport Rivers Wine: Bring home a bottle of fine Westport wine from the Westport Rivers Vineyard.
  2. Handmade Crafts: Local artisans sell unique, handmade crafts at the Westport Farmers’ Market.
  3. Artworks: The Westport Art Group offers a variety of artworks from local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Westport

Westport is a small town with a tight-knit community that prides itself on its maritime history and local traditions. Visitors are encouraged to respect the town’s culture and customs, including the preservation of local historic sites and beaches.

Best Time to Visit Westport

The best time to visit Westport is in the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can enjoy Westport’s beauty year-round with its stunning fall foliage and cozy winter landscapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Westport

Do:

  1. Visit the local historic sites and museums.
  2. Respect the local culture and customs.
  3. Try the local cuisine and wine.

Don’t:

  1. Litter on the town’s beaches and parks.
  2. Ignore the town’s traffic regulations.
  3. Disrespect locals or culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Westport

Westport is relatively safe, but visitors should practice basic safety precautions such as locking their cars and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Westport

There are several medical facilities in Westport, including the Southcoast Health Urgent Care, where visitors can receive medical attention if needed.

Getting to Westport: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors traveling to Westport have several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Westport

  1. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS): 67 miles away
  2. T.F. Green Airport (PVD): 45 miles away

Bus Stations Near Westport

  1. Peter Pan Bus Lines: The nearest bus stop is located in New Bedford, just 7 miles from Westport.
  2. Greyhound Bus Lines: The nearest bus stop is in Providence, which is approximately 25 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Westport or take a taxi or ride-sharing service from nearby cities like Boston, Providence, or New Bedford.

How to Get Around in Westport

Westport is a small town that is easy to explore on foot or by bike. Visitors also have the option of renting a car or taking a taxi to get around.

Where to Go Next from Westport: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Westport is conveniently located near several other popular destinations and attractions, including:

  1. Newport, Rhode Island: Known for its stunning mansions and coastal scenery, Newport is just a short drive away from Westport.
  2. Martha’s Vineyard: Take a ferry from Woods Hole and visit one of New England’s most popular vacation spots.
  3. Cape Cod: Explore the quaint towns and stunning beaches of Cape Cod, located just an hour’s drive from Westport.

Conclusion

Westport is a beautiful town that offers visitors a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. A trip to Westport is highly recommended for anyone looking for a getaway that is off the beaten path. We hope that our ultimate guide to Westport has inspired you to plan your next trip to this stunning Massachusetts coastal town.