Gloucester: Visiting Crow’s Nest, The location of “The Perfect Storm”
The Crow’s Nest is the bar featured in the movie, “The Perfect Storm.” The actual bar was not used for the movie because the ceilings were too low for the cameramen. However, a replica set was made in Hollywood. Cast members such as George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg hung out at the actual Crow’s Nest while filming in Gloucester, Massachusetts.
Based on a true story
I would advise reading the book or seeing the movie beforehand to familiarize yourself with the story. For those of you who haven’t read the book or seen the movie, The Perfect Storm is based on the true story of 5 Gloucester fishermen and their captain who never return from a late season fishing expedition due to a disastrous storm now known as the “Storm of the Century.” The book captures the last few days of the 6 fisherman’s lives aboard sword-fishing boat, Andrea Gail.
It is an incredible movie, and a really incredible experience to be able to visit the bar in person and learn more about the real life story. The bartender actually knew some of the men who lost their lives and provided a lot of interesting information regarding the disaster.
Along the walls, you will find various pictures of the actual men who lost their lives, along with pictures of the Hollywood celebrities who appeared in the movie and visited the bar while filming scenes in Gloucester.
The (real) Perfect Storm Crew
The bar/wall decor
Pictures of the filming crew hanging out at Crow’s Nest adorn the walls
Commemoration plaque acknowledging the crewmen of the Andrea Gail
A must visit for fans of the book/movie
Crow’s Nest is an interesting spot to stop for a few drinks if you are a fan of the book or movie. My dad (a major fan of the movie) really enjoyed his experience. Many visitors and locals return again and again. Note that the bar no longer serves food, however, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance. The Crow’s Nest Inn offers great views of the harbor if you need somewhere to stay while in town. Souvenir items such as hats and T shirts can be purchased at the bar and make for a great little stocking stuffer for fans of the film.
Fun fact: The National Weather Service created the term “The Perfect Storm” in October 1991 to describe this monstrous storm off the New England coast.
Crow’s Nest Address: 334 Main Street Gloucester, MA 01930
Crow’s Nest Website
Gloucester Marine Railways
From the Crow’s Nest, you can walk over to the shipyard, which is the oldest working in the US. On a nice day, it’s a beautiful place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery. Here are a few pics of the boats and waterfront.
You can also walk or drive about a mile or so to the Fisherman’s Memorial Statue. Built in 1925, this statue commemorates all those Gloucester fisherman who have lost their lives at sea, since the seventeenth century.
Address: Stacy Boulevard, Gloucester, MA
Where to dine in Gloucester
There are dozens of restaurants within walking distance. We decided to go with a restaurant called Espresso Italian Grille & Pub, which was recommended by one of the locals at Crow’s Nest. Update: This grill is now closed. Other recommended restaurants include: Delaney’s Pizza, Destino’s, and Seaport Grille.
