Planning a summer trip or just a quick getaway? Discovering Things To Do On Cape Cod is a blast for every visitor. After spending over 20 years exploring this coastal New England destination, I’ve got the scoop on the best highlights and hidden gems. Whether you’re seeing the Cape through a tourist’s eyes or a local’s lens, this guide ensures your bucket list is packed. Just remember this quick tip from a local: You are on Cape Cod, not in Cape Cod. Now, let’s dive into all the fun.
The Essential Cape Cod Experience (Must-Sees)
Explore The Cape Cod National Seashore
Undoubtedly, the most beautiful part of the Cape is the National Seashore. I always say this is the one thing not to miss when you visit. This area features over 40,000 acres of protected, unspoiled coastline. It boasts the most stunning beaches, scenic nature trails, and lighthouses.
- Location: The National Seashore is located in the Outer Cape region, spanning from Eastham to Provincetown.
- Must-Do Activities: Spend a full day at a Seashore beach, walk the Nauset Marsh trail, and see Nauset Lighthouse.
- Coast Guard Beach: This is my all-time favorite Cape Cod beach, and it’s located within the National Seashore.
Hit the Beaches: A Comprehensive Guide to Things To Do On Cape Cod
Beaches are obviously one of the top Cape Cod attractions. The variety of the Cape’s shoreline means you can find a beach for every type of visitor.
- Atlantic Ocean Beaches: These beaches feature dramatic views, dunes, and usually have powerful surf. Race Point Beach in Provincetown is gorgeous, with sand that has a golden tone.
- Cape Cod Bay & Nantucket Sound Beaches: These are perfect for families, offering warmer water and calmer surf.
- Cape Cod Bay Must-Visits: Mayflower Beach in Dennis, Skaket Beach in Orleans.
- Nantucket Sound: Check out Bank Street Beach in Harwich Port.
Experience Provincetown (Ptown): The Tip of the Cape
Of all the towns, I always suggest everyone visits Provincetown (Ptown). This fun, unique, and beautiful place is filled with a lively, yet somehow peaceful energy. It is located at the very tip of the peninsula.
- Commercial Street: Exploring Commercial Street is one of the most iconic Things To Do On Cape Cod. It is full of life with colorful shops, art galleries, cabarets, and clubs.
- Sights: You will find two gorgeous National Seashore beaches here (Race Point and Herring Cove). You can also visit Race Point Lighthouse.
- Pilgrim Monument: Head to the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum to climb the tallest all-granite structure in the U.S.. It offers panoramic views of Cape Cod that are totally worth the steps.
Stroll Through The Charming Towns (Mid-Cape and Lower Cape Focus)
Cape Cod is comprised of 15 different towns, and each has its own character and fun things to do. A great way to enjoy the Cape is just walking around the downtown areas.
- Chatham: This is a top town to see, where you’ll find idyllic scenery and gorgeous houses. Its Main Street is walkable and lined with shops and restaurants.
- Harwich Port: This town also has a quaint shopping area to explore.
- Sandwich: Head here for a taste of historic Cape Cod.
- Hyannis: This town is more commercial but is convenient for easy access to ferries for the islands.
Indulge in Amazing Seafood and Ice Cream
You simply can’t visit the Cape without indulging in all the incredibly fresh seafood dishes. A seafood binge is basically a rite of passage.
- Seafood Feasting: A Culinary Deep Dive
- Must-Try Items: Maine is famous for the lobster roll, but it’s a top thing to get on the Cape too. Also try fresh steamers, oysters, steamed lobster dinners, and New England Clam Chowder.
- Local Delicacy: Be sure to try a stuffed quahog, which is a giant baked clam.
- Recommended Spots: The Pilot House in Sandwich has an amazing location right on the water. Lobster Pot in Provincetown is an icon for its lobster rolls and oysters.
- Dessert: Homemade Ice Cream Trail
- Top Places: After dinner, scope out some homemade ice cream. My absolute favorite places are Sundae School in Harwich Port and Dennis Port. Also check out Schoolhouse in Harwich Port, Ice Cream Café in Orleans, and Cape Cod Creamery in Hyannis and Yarmouth.
Coastal Wildlife and Natural Wonders
Go On A Whale Watch Tour
Speaking of whale watch tours, Cape Cod is actually one of the best places in the world for spotting whales. This is thanks to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. This area is globally known for having very active marine life.
- What to See: It’s highly likely you’ll spot humpback whales, fin whales, and minke whales. You might also see a ton of dolphins.
- Departure Points: Tours run out of Provincetown and Hyannis.
- Recommended Company: I like to recommend Dolphin Fleet, which departs from MacMillan Pier in Ptown.
Viewing Seals and Wildlife
Gray seals and harbor seals are often spotted along the Atlantic coastline of Cape Cod. Seeing these cute little residents is definitely one of the fun Things To Do On Cape Cod.
- Chatham Fish Pier: This is a very easy way to see them. The seals wait close to the docks, hoping to snatch up any scraps the fishermen may throw back.
- Take A Seal Tour: Head out on a dedicated seal tour for a closer look. The best tours leave from the Harwich and Chatham areas and head out to Monomoy. You’ll see them sunbathing on land in a more natural setting.
- Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge: This area is known for bird watching and remote beach views.
Experience The Brewster Flats
Cape Cod is home to the largest tidal flats in North America. They are known as the Brewster Flats.
- The Phenomenon: When the tide goes out along Cape Cod Bay (the northern shore), you can walk out onto the ocean floor for about a mile.
- Timing Tip: Since the sun sets over the Bay, you have the chance of experiencing low tide at sunset. Be sure to check both low tide and sunset times during your visit.
Dune Tours with Art’s Dune Tours
This is one of the most unique Things To Do On Cape Cod. Art’s Dune Tours takes you through the stunning Cape Cod National Seashore.
- Access: You get to see areas you can’t access by car and would otherwise have to hike to.
- Experience: You can kick back while your guide shares interesting history and fun facts. This is a great, scenic way to explore the sand dunes without breaking a sweat.
Food, Culture, and Shopping
Shop, Sip, and See Art
One of the great things about shopping on Cape Cod is that the vast majority of the shops are independently owned boutiques and galleries.
- Boutique Shopping Focus: You won’t find many franchised stores outside of Hyannis and Mashpee.
- Bookshop Highlights: Check out Where The Sidewalk Ends in Chatham and Eight Cousins in Falmouth.
- Other Unique Finds: Visit Wish Gift & Co. in Sandwich and Fisherman’s Daughter in Chatham.
- Artist Galleries and Shanties: The Cape has amazing support for local artists.
- Artist Shanties: These cute little huts in Hyannis, Brewster, and Orleans host local artists. You can browse handcrafted pieces like paintings, ceramics, and jewelry.
- Art Hubs: Brewster and Provincetown are especially great for perusing art galleries.
Visit The Iconic Lighthouses
Home to 14 lighthouses, seeing at least a few is a classic Cape Cod charm activity. The top ones are pretty easy to visit.
- Nauset Light (Eastham): This is the most famous lighthouse on the Cape. It is the iconic red and white one featured on the Cape Cod potato chips bags.
- Highland Light (Truro): This is the oldest and tallest lighthouse on Cape Cod. It is situated along the golf course in a very peaceful setting.
- Chatham Lighthouse (Chatham): You can enjoy the views from the beach across the street from this guarded lighthouse.
Enjoy The Wineries & Breweries Trail
If you’re looking to sip on some locally-made drinks, checking out the area’s fun wineries and breweries is perfect.
- Winery Scene:
- Truro Vineyards: This vineyard is pretty close to Highland Lighthouse. They offer outdoor spaces, food trucks, and covered pavilions to enjoy your wine.
- Cape Cod Winery (East Falmouth): This spot has an equally fun outdoor space and does great seasonal drinks.
- Craft Beer: My all-time favorite brewery, Tree House Brewing, has a Cape Cod location in Sandwich. You can grab a drink while overlooking the water from their upper deck.
Entertainment and Leisure
There are plenty of enjoyable, low-key Things To Do On Cape Cod outside of the beaches.
- See A Movie At The Wellfleet Drive-In: It’s not often you get to experience a drive-in movie. The Wellfleet drive-in offers that nostalgic experience, complete with a snack bar and double features every night.
- Pop into the Cutest Cafes: If you love a good coffee stop, you’re going to love the Cape. Check out Mariner Cafe and Great Awakening Coffee in Hyannis.
History, Architecture, and Museums
Dive into History and Museums
Mixing a little history and art into your trip is a great idea. Cape Cod has many fascinating museums for history lovers.
- Kennedy Legacy:
- JFK Museum in Hyannis: This museum focuses on JFK’s time spent on the Cape with his family around Hyannis Port. It includes photos, memorabilia, and stories that make it feel really personal.
- Maritime and Natural History:
- AWSC Shark Center (Chatham): If you’re fascinated by great white sharks, this center gives you an inside look at the research and conservation work being done.
- Whydah Pirate Museum: You can visit this museum to explore the history of a pirate shipwreck.
- Cape Cod Maritime Museum: This museum celebrates the area’s sea-faring history.
- Art and Local Culture:
- Provincetown Art Association & Museum: Visit this art association to appreciate local and regional works.
Historic Sites and Architecture
Some of the most interesting historical sites are the preserved buildings and structures themselves.
- The Oldest Homes:
- Hoxie House (Sandwich): Built around 1675, this is the oldest house on Cape Cod. It is now known for showcasing authentic and preserved architecture from the era.
- Working Structures:
- Dexter Grist Mill (Sandwich): Located in historic Sandwich, you can visit this working grist mill.
- Cultural Architecture:
- Church of the Transfiguration (Orleans): This hidden gem is supposed to be absolutely beautiful, with hand-crafted mosaics and a serene setting.
- Other Sites:
- Heritage Museums & Gardens (Sandwich): This peaceful space mixes beautifully kept gardens with cool museum exhibits, including antique cars.
- Sandwich Glass Museum: Check out this museum to learn about the history of glass manufacturing in the area.
Active Exploration and Scenic Views
Biking and Hiking Trails
Getting active on the Cape allows you to see some stunning landscapes that you might otherwise miss.
- Explore Cape Cod’s Scenic Bikeways:
- Cape Cod Rail Trail: This might be one of the best Things To Do On Cape Cod if you want to see a bunch of towns in an active way. It’s over 25 miles long and stretches through charming towns like Brewster, Orleans, and Wellfleet.
- Shining Sea Bikeway: This 10+ mile trail runs from Falmouth to Woods Hole along the coast. You will see salt marshes, cranberry bogs, and the ocean.
- Province Lands Trail: Located in Provincetown, this trail is definitely more challenging, as it is notoriously hilly. It provides an absolutely memorable ride through sand dune landscapes.
- Must-Do Hikes:
- Great Island Trail (Wellfleet): This is one of the most scenic hikes you can take on Cape Cod. It offers stunning coastline views of Cape Cod Bay and meanders through wooded scenery.
- Nauset Marsh Trail: This is an excellent trail to explore near the National Seashore.
Scenic Walks and Boardwalks
Walking the boardwalks offers low-effort, high-reward scenery on the Cape.
- Sandwich Boardwalk: A peaceful gem that stretches through a marsh and leads you right out to the beach.
- Bass Hole Boardwalk (Yarmouth): Also known as Gray’s Beach Boardwalk, it stretches out over salt marshes. It gives you wide, open views that feel super peaceful.
- Shore Road in Chatham: This scenic stretch along the coast is seriously stunning to bike or walk.
- Walk The Canal Service Road: The path itself is quite short, but it ends at a nice beach with wonderful views of the canal.
Entertainment and Leisure
Sometimes the simplest Things To Do On Cape Cod create the best memories.
- Local Treats: Stop by a classic candy shop like Candy Manor or Provincetown Fudge Factory for a nostalgic treat.
Water Sports and Active Coastal Pursuits
While the beaches offer swimming and sunbathing, the Cape’s various waterways—from the calm bay to the numerous kettle ponds—are perfect for getting out on the water.
Kayaking, Canoeing, and Paddleboarding
The calmer sections of the Cape are ideal for non-motorized watercraft, offering a peaceful way to explore the region’s diverse ecosystems.
- Nauset Marsh (Eastham/Orleans): Offers an incredible paddling experience through a vast salt marsh system. You can navigate winding channels and often spot seals and various shorebirds. It’s a key spot for ecological tours.
- Freshwater Ponds: The “kettle ponds” left by glaciers, such as those found in Nickerson State Park (Brewster), offer extremely calm, clear water, making them perfect for beginner paddleboarders and families.
- Waquoit Bay (Falmouth): A protected area known for its shallow, clear waters, great for exploring by kayak.
Surfing and Wind-Powered Sports
For those looking for more excitement, the Cape’s exposure to the Atlantic provides decent waves and excellent wind.
- Surfing: The Outer Cape beaches, particularly Nauset Beach (Orleans) and White Crest Beach (Wellfleet), consistently offer the best swell for surfing and bodyboarding.
- Windsurfing and Kitesurfing: Buzzards Bay and Nantucket Sound areas (like West Dennis Beach or Kalmus Beach in Hyannis) are often windy and feature large, shallow areas suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Boating and Fishing Charters
Getting out deep-sea fishing or simply cruising is a classic Cape Cod summer activity.
- Deep-Sea Fishing: Charters run out of nearly every major harbor, including Provincetown, Hyannis, and Harwich Port. These trips target species like striped bass, bluefish, and tuna.
- Sailing and Sunset Cruises: Many harbors offer catamaran or sailboat tours, providing a relaxing way to view the coastline, lighthouses, and sunsets from the water.
The Cape’s Agricultural Heritage and Farm Fun
Beyond the sand and sea, the Cape has a long and storied agricultural history, particularly known for its cranberry production.
Cranberry Bog Tours
Cranberry bogs are a quintessential New England sight, and seeing them in person is a must, especially during the harvest.
- Harwich and Carver: The largest bogs are often found in the mid-Cape and bordering areas like Carver. Look for tours that run during the harvest season.
- Fall Harvest (Late September/October): This is the best time to visit when the bogs are flooded, and the vibrant red cranberries are “wet harvested.” This colorful spectacle is one of the best photo opportunities on the Cape.
Local Farm Stands and U-Pick
Visiting a local farm stand provides a taste of the freshest seasonal produce and supports local growers.
- Seasonal Produce: Stop for everything from sweet corn and heirloom tomatoes in mid-summer to pumpkins and apples in the fall.
- Local Specialties: Seek out local honey, maple syrup, and baked goods. Some farms also offer U-Pick opportunities for flowers or berries.
Specific Family Entertainment and Local Traditions
While the beaches are fun for all ages, the Cape also offers a wealth of dedicated, structured entertainment ideal for families and locals alike.
Cape Cod Baseball League
This is a cornerstone of the Cape Cod summer experience and should not be missed.
- The Experience: The Cape League is an amateur summer baseball league where the nation’s best collegiate players compete. Games are free (donations accepted) and are played every night in June and July.
- The Stars: You are watching future Major League Baseball stars—the atmosphere is intimate, and it’s a perfect, budget-friendly evening activity.
- Teams: Teams are located in ten towns, including the Harwich Mariners, Hyannis Harbor Hawks, and Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox.
Family Fun Centers and Arcades
Classic summer resort fun is alive and well on the Cape, perfect for rainy days or evenings.
- Mini Golf: Courses like Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf (South Yarmouth) offer elaborate themes and a fun challenge for all ages.
- Arcades and Go-Karts: Centers in the Mid-Cape area feature large arcades, batting cages, and go-kart tracks for high-energy entertainment.
Local Cuisine: Specialty Food and Dining Scene
The general seafood section covers lobster and clam chowder, but the dining culture on Cape Cod offers other distinct experiences, particularly around its raw bar and less-formal offerings.
Raw Bar Culture
Oysters and clams are local specialties, and enjoying them at a dedicated raw bar is essential.
- Local Species: Cape Cod is famous for its oyster farming, particularly Wellfleet Oysters and Cotuit Oysters.
- The Experience: Find a spot with waterfront views (like Mac’s Raw Bar or the Chatham Bars Inn Beach Bar) and enjoy freshly shucked seafood, often paired with a local craft beer or signature cocktail.
Non-Seafood Staples
For a break from the ocean’s bounty, the Cape offers many fantastic alternatives.
- Pizzerias: Every town has a favorite pizza spot. Look for local classics that cater to families and late-night crowds.
- Diners and Breakfast Spots: Sampling a classic New England breakfast at a local diner, featuring fluffy pancakes and strong coffee, is a must-do.
Performing Arts and Live Entertainment
The Cape has a rich heritage in the arts, serving as a summer haven for performers and artists for over a century.
Historic Summer Theaters
Catching a show at one of the area’s iconic venues offers a glimpse into the history of American summer stock theater.
- The Cape Playhouse (Dennis): Founded in 1927, this is one of the oldest professional summer theaters in the country, hosting Broadway-caliber performances throughout the summer.
- The Cape Rep Theatre (Brewster): Known for producing high-quality, professional, and innovative shows in a more intimate setting.
Music and Comedy Venues
From large rotating stages to cozy bars, the Cape offers a variety of live entertainment.
- The Melody Tent (Hyannis): This large, tented, rotating stage is a major fixture in the Mid-Cape, hosting nationally recognized musical acts, comedians, and performers all summer long.
- Local Nightlife: Provincetown and Hyannis both have active nightlife scenes where you can find live local bands, jazz ensembles, and comedy shows.
Practical Transportation and Travel Logistics
Getting to and around Cape Cod, especially during peak season, requires some planning. Highlighting these practical aspects is vital for a seamless trip.
Accessing the Cape
The Cape is connected to the mainland by two major bridges, which are major choke points in the summer.
- The Bridges (Bourne and Sagamore): Crossing these bridges is the main source of summer traffic. Travel Tip: Avoid Friday afternoons heading east and Sunday afternoons heading west.
- The CapeFLYER Train: A seasonal (late May to early September) passenger rail service that runs from Boston (South Station) to Hyannis, offering a relaxing, traffic-free way to travel.
Cape Cod Gateway Airport
While most visitors drive, those coming from afar may find flying directly to the Cape convenient.
- HYA (Hyannis): The main airport for regional flights, offering easy access to the Mid-Cape region and the ferries to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Navigating Locally
Despite being an island-like peninsula, the Cape does not have a comprehensive, year-round public transit system, making cars essential—but parking is often limited.
- Bike Rentals: Given the extensive rail trail system, renting a bike is often the fastest and most enjoyable way to travel short distances and between towns in the Mid and Outer Cape.
Planning Your Trip and Logistics
Day Trips
If you have a few extra days, planning a day trip is a fantastic way to see more of the coastal New England region.
- Island Excursions: Take a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket. Both islands are just a ferry ride away and have their own unique charm.
Seasonal Events and Timing
Year-round, Cape Cod has so many fun festivals to check out.
- Spring/Summer: Check out Brewster Blooms in the spring.
- Fall Fun: Don’t miss the Wellfleet Oyster Fest in the fall.
- Holidays: During the Christmas season, there’s a fun holiday market in Provincetown, and each town has its own holiday stroll weekends.
- Off-Season Tip: Experiencing the Cape in the off-season offers quiet, peaceful moments without the peak crowds.
Where to Stay on Cape Cod
Deciding where to stay can feel overwhelming because the Cape is large, with many distinct towns.
| Town | Vibe | Example Lodging |
| Provincetown | Fun, artsy, highly walkable; best for nightlife and galleries | Brass Key Guesthouse, Lotus Provincetown |
| Chatham | Classic Cape Cod charm, quintessential New England feeling | Chatham Bars Inn, Chatham Wayside Inn |
| Hyannis | Convenient, commercial, easy access to ferries | Anchor In Hotel, Hyannis Harbor Hotel |
Conclusion
Cape Cod truly offers a slice of coastal paradise for everyone. From the dramatic sand dune landscapes of the Province Lands to the history embedded in Sandwich’s oldest homes, the list of Things To Do On Cape Cod is endless. Whether you are a local or a first-time visitor, the Cape’s charm is undeniable. Now that you have this expert outline and all the local favorites, you’re ready to plan your perfect itinerary. Enjoy your adventure on the Cape!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best time of year to visit Cape Cod for warm weather and swimming?
The peak season for warm weather is typically July and August. These are the best months for swimming, as the water temperature in Cape Cod Bay and Nantucket Sound beaches often warms up to the low-to-mid 70s Fahrenheit. June and September offer pleasant weather, but the ocean water remains considerably cooler, usually hovering in the 60s.
Is it necessary to reserve accommodations months in advance?
Yes, absolutely. For trips during the peak season (June through Labor Day), booking accommodations should be done at least six to twelve months in advance, especially for popular inns, rental homes, or hotels in highly sought-after towns like Provincetown, Chatham, or Falmouth. Booking 3-4 months out is usually sufficient for late spring or early fall visits.
How are the Cape Cod towns generally grouped, and what are their vibes?
The towns are typically divided into four sections:
- Upper Cape (Falmouth, Sandwich, Bourne): Closest to the mainland, most year-round residents, and easiest access to Martha’s Vineyard ferries (Falmouth). Known for history (Sandwich) and wooded areas.
- Mid-Cape (Hyannis, Yarmouth, Dennis): Most commercial and populous area, home to the main airport (HYA), shopping centers, and ferries. Very family-friendly.
- Lower Cape (Harwich, Brewster, Orleans): Classic Cape Cod feel with quieter charm, boutique shopping, and excellent Bay beaches and ponds.
- Outer Cape (Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, Provincetown): Features the dramatic National Seashore landscape, large dunes, and the vibrant, artistic hub of Provincetown.
How much does it cost to park at the beaches?
Beach parking fees are managed by individual towns and the National Seashore, and the prices vary widely. Town beaches typically charge between $15 and $30 per day for non-residents, with weekly passes available. National Seashore beaches (like Coast Guard Beach) require a $25 daily vehicle entrance fee or the purchase of an annual National Seashore pass. Many smaller beaches are for residents only or require a town pass.
What are the dangers of swimming off the Atlantic Ocean beaches?
While beautiful, the Atlantic Ocean side of the Cape (the Outer Cape) has strong surf, colder water, and can have dangerous rip currents. More importantly, this area is the main feeding ground for the growing population of Great White Sharks, who feed on the large seal population. Always swim near guarded beaches, heed all posted warnings, and avoid swimming near seals.
Can I camp on Cape Cod?
Yes, camping is a very popular option. The most famous spot is Nickerson State Park in Brewster, which offers hundreds of sites, freshwater swimming, and access to the bike trail. Additionally, there are several large, privately run campgrounds, particularly in the Outer Cape (like in Wellfleet).
What is the closest town to Boston, and how long does it take to drive there?
The closest towns to Boston are in the Upper Cape, specifically Bourne and Sandwich. Without heavy traffic, the drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes from Boston. However, during peak summer weekends, traffic congestion, especially at the bridges, can easily turn this into a 3- to 4-hour drive.
Are dogs allowed on Cape Cod beaches during the summer?
Policies vary by town, but generally, dogs are heavily restricted or banned from town beaches during the daytime in the summer season (Memorial Day to Labor Day). However, they are often allowed on leashes early in the morning (before 9 a.m.) and late in the evening (after 5 p.m.). The Cape Cod National Seashore beaches usually allow leashed dogs year-round, but specific restrictions may apply near nesting birds.
What is a “kettle pond”?
A kettle pond (or kettle lake) is a shallow, freshwater body of water formed by melting blocks of glacial ice left behind after the last Ice Age. Cape Cod is home to numerous kettle ponds, which are known for their clear, clean water and sandy bottoms. They are popular for freshwater swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating.
Where can I find the best sunsets on Cape Cod?
The best place to view spectacular sunsets is along the Cape Cod Bay shore. Because the Cape curves north, the Bay side faces west, allowing you to watch the sun dip below the horizon over the water. Key spots include Skaket Beach (Orleans), Corporation Beach (Dennis), and Rock Harbor (Orleans) where the fishing boats return at dusk.
Is the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket a day trip, or do I need to stay overnight?
Both islands are easily done as day trips, though you should plan for a long day. The high-speed ferries take about 45 minutes to an hour one-way. For Martha’s Vineyard, ferries leave from Falmouth or Hyannis. For Nantucket, ferries leave from Hyannis. If you want to see both islands or truly explore their distinct towns, staying overnight is recommended.
What is the “best” town to stay in for a first-time visitor?
Hyannis is often recommended for first-time visitors because of its central location (Mid-Cape), commercial convenience, and easy access to both the Mid-Cape Highway and the ferries to the islands. If you prefer a quainter, more traditional feel, Chatham offers the iconic “classic Cape Cod” experience.
Are there any restrictions on campfires or fireworks on the beaches?
Generally, fireworks are illegal for private use across all of Massachusetts. Campfires are usually prohibited on public town beaches. However, the Cape Cod National Seashore permits small, contained recreational fires below the high-tide line at certain designated beaches (like Coast Guard and Race Point) with a permit. Always check local fire regulations.
What are “The Three Villages” of Falmouth?
Falmouth is a large town that encompasses several distinct villages, with three being major hubs: Woods Hole, Falmouth Heights, and Falmouth Center (downtown). Woods Hole is famous for its oceanographic research institution and the ferry terminal to Martha’s Vineyard. Falmouth Heights is known for its large beach and summer rentals.
What is the Mid-Cape Highway?
The Mid-Cape Highway is the local name for Route 6, the main arterial road that runs down the spine of the Cape from the bridges all the way out to Provincetown. It is the fastest way to travel long distances on the Cape, though it narrows and turns into a single lane in the Outer Cape, contributing to traffic.
When does the majority of the tourism season end?
The true “peak” tourism season ends on Labor Day (the first Monday in September). After this, many seasonal businesses, restaurants, and attractions begin to close or operate on reduced hours. The period from Labor Day through Columbus Day is known as the “shoulder season,” which is still very popular for its mild weather and lack of crowds.
Is there a fee to cross the Cape Cod bridges?
No, there are no toll fees to cross the Bourne Bridge or the Sagamore Bridge onto or off of Cape Cod. The cost of visiting is primarily related to accommodations, beach parking, and food.
Where is the best place to go for nightlife and late-night entertainment?
Provincetown (Ptown) easily has the most vibrant and diverse nightlife scene on the Cape. Commercial Street is packed with bars, dance clubs, cabarets, and venues that are open late. Hyannis and Falmouth also offer a good selection of bars and pubs that remain active into the evening, especially on weekends.
Where can I find the best views of the Cape Cod Canal?
The Cape Cod Canal offers fantastic views, especially from the Sagamore Bridge and Bourne Bridge sidewalks (though the Bourne Bridge is better for photos). The best viewing spot is the Scusset Beach Reservation (in Sandwich/Bourne), which offers vantage points to watch massive ships, barges, and pleasure crafts travel through the canal.
What is the significance of the “Kennedy Legacy Trail” in Hyannis?
The Kennedy Legacy Trail is a self-guided walking tour in downtown Hyannis that uses a series of ten story-filled markers to focus on JFK’s connection to the Cape. It covers his life, his family, and his time spent in Hyannis Port, offering a concise, educational experience that complements a visit to the JFK Museum.