Hammond Castle Museum
80 Hesperus Ave, Gloucester, MA
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Gloucester’s century-old Hammond Castle Museum is the former home of inventor and “father of radio control” Dr John Hays Hammond Jr. Inside, his inventions and possessions—including one of the world’s largest pipe organs—are displayed. Featuring a mix of medieval, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, the museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Just a quick trip south of downtown Gloucester, the Hammond Castle Museum is one of the region’s most distinctive historic landmarks. Self-guided tours let visitors explore the castle’s galleries at their own pace, while guided tours stop by its highlights, like the former laboratory, the vast Great Hall, and courtyard, plus reveal the stories behind the sights.
It’s also worth visiting the castle when special events are held. You can discover rotating temporary exhibitions, take part in programming, like outdoor sketching classes and story hours for kids, and even explore on a candlelit tour that reveals Hammond’s spiritualist and occult side.
Due to numerous stairs, the museum is unfortunately not accessible to wheelchair users.
Large bags, backpacks, strollers, and selfie sticks are all prohibited at the museum.
Water bottles are permitted, but food and drink is not allowed in the museum or its grounds.
It’s recommended to book tickets online in advance of your visit; self-guided and guided tours are the same price.
Seniors and children aged 5–12 received discounted entry, while kids aged 4 and under visit for free (though still need pre-reserved tickets).
Visitors should set aside a few hours to fully explore the site.
The Hammond Castle Museum is located at 80 Hesperus Avenue, Gloucester, MA 01930. If traveling by car from central Gloucester, take Western Ave. south; the trip is typically around 10 minutes. Alternatively, buses run by the Cape Ann Transportation Authority (CATA) also serve the area.
The Hammond Castle Museum is open daily from April to late December, typically from 10am until 4pm; last admission is 45 minutes before closing. Check ahead of your visit as there is occasional early closing on select dates. The museum is closed annually on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
The Hammond Castle Museum isn’t the only historic house museum in Gloucester: It’s also worth exploring the Sargent House Museum. Built in 1782 for Judith Sargent Murray, a philosopher, writer, and early advocate of women’s equality, it features a small collection of artworks by John Singer Sargent.
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