Cape Cod National Seashore
Stretch along 40 miles of pristine beaches, dunes, and marshlands that showcase Cape Cod’s natural beauty at its finest. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking trails, and ranger-led programs while experiencing some of the most unspoiled coastline on the East Coast. The seashore offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities and stunning sunset vistas that capture the essence of coastal New England.
Phone: (508) 255-3421
Provincetown
This vibrant artist colony at the tip of Cape Cod offers an eclectic mix of galleries, theaters, and colorful nightlife that attracts visitors from around the world. Walk down Commercial Street to discover unique shops, world-class restaurants, and street performers that create an unforgettable bohemian atmosphere. The town’s rich maritime history and welcoming community make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking culture and entertainment.
Phone: (508) 487-7000
Martha’s Vineyard Ferry
Embark on a scenic ferry ride from Woods Hole to the charming island of Martha’s Vineyard, where Victorian architecture and pristine beaches await. The journey itself is part of the adventure, offering spectacular views of Vineyard Sound and opportunities to spot marine wildlife. Once on the island, explore quaint villages, sample fresh seafood, and experience the relaxed island lifestyle that has attracted visitors for generations.
Phone: (508) 477-8600
Chatham Lighthouse Beach
Watch dramatic waves crash against the shore while enjoying panoramic views from this historic lighthouse perched on dramatic bluffs. The beach below offers excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities, while the lighthouse itself provides insight into Cape Cod’s maritime heritage. Visitors often gather here for spectacular sunrise viewing and to observe the powerful forces of nature that continue to shape Cape Cod’s coastline.
Phone: (508) 945-5199
Nauset Beach
Experience one of Cape Cod’s most popular beaches, featuring nine miles of pristine Atlantic coastline perfect for surfing, swimming, and beachcombing. The consistent waves make it a favorite among surfers, while families appreciate the lifeguards and facilities during summer months. The beach’s expansive size means you can always find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the rhythm of the ocean.
Phone: (508) 240-3775
Cape Cod Canal Bikeway
Pedal along this scenic 6.5-mile paved trail that follows the historic Cape Cod Canal, offering unique views of boats passing through this engineering marvel. The flat, easy trail is perfect for families and provides fascinating glimpses into the canal’s operation and maritime traffic. Along the way, you’ll discover picnic areas, fishing spots, and visitor centers that tell the story of this important waterway.
Phone: (508) 759-8813
Whale Watching Tours from Barnstable
Embark on an unforgettable marine adventure to witness humpback, finback, and minke whales in their natural habitat in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Expert naturalists provide commentary about whale behavior and marine ecosystems while you scan the horizon for these magnificent creatures. The tours often include sightings of dolphins, seals, and various seabirds, making each trip a unique wildlife experience.
Phone: (508) 362-6088
Pilgrim Monument
Climb 252 feet to the top of this towering granite monument commemorating the Mayflower Pilgrims’ first landing in Provincetown before Plymouth. The panoramic views from the top showcase the entire Cape Cod peninsula, from the Atlantic Ocean to Cape Cod Bay. The adjacent museum houses fascinating artifacts and exhibits about the Pilgrims’ journey and Provincetown’s role in American history.
Phone: (508) 487-1310
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
Discover the diverse ecosystems of Cape Cod through interactive exhibits, live animal displays, and extensive nature trails that wind through salt marshes and woodlands. The museum’s hands-on approach makes learning about local wildlife, geology, and environmental conservation engaging for visitors of all ages. Special programs include guided nature walks, bird watching tours, and seasonal exhibits that highlight the Cape’s natural wonders.
Phone: (508) 896-3867
Sandwich Glass Museum
Marvel at the artistry of 19th-century glassmaking through stunning displays of pressed glass, blown glass, and decorative pieces that made Sandwich famous worldwide. Watch live glassblowing demonstrations where skilled artisans create beautiful pieces using traditional techniques. The museum’s collection tells the fascinating story of the Boston & Sandwich Glass Company and its impact on American decorative arts.
Phone: (508) 888-0251
Marconi Beach
Experience the historic significance of this Atlantic-facing beach where Guglielmo Marconi sent the first transatlantic wireless message from America to Europe in 1903. The beach offers excellent swimming, surfing, and beachcombing opportunities along its dramatic cliffs and wide sandy shores. Interpretive signs and a visitor center explain the fascinating story of early wireless communication and its connection to this beautiful coastal location.
Phone: (508) 255-3421
Hyannis Harbor and Main Street
Stroll through the Kennedy family’s beloved summer destination where charming shops, restaurants, and the bustling harbor create the perfect Cape Cod downtown experience. The harbor offers ferry connections to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, while Main Street features everything from casual eateries to upscale boutiques. This vibrant area captures the essence of Cape Cod’s maritime culture and serves as the perfect base for exploring the region.
Phone: (508) 775-2201
Heritage Museums & Gardens
Explore 100 acres of magnificent gardens, vintage automobiles, and American folk art in this unique cultural destination that celebrates both horticultural beauty and automotive history. The gardens feature stunning rhododendrons, hydrangeas, and seasonal displays, while the museum houses an impressive collection of classic cars and Americana. Special events and educational programs make each visit a discovery of art, history, and natural beauty.
Phone: (508) 888-3300
Race Point Beach
Venture to the northernmost tip of Cape Cod where pristine Atlantic beaches meet dramatic dunes and the historic Race Point Lighthouse stands sentinel over the coast. This remote beach offers incredible opportunities for beachcombing, seal watching, and enjoying some of the most spectacular sunsets on the East Coast. The beach’s wild, windswept character provides a sense of isolation and natural beauty that’s increasingly rare.
Phone: (508) 255-3421
Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
Immerse yourself in 1,100 acres of diverse habitats including salt marshes, pine forests, and meadows that serve as crucial breeding and feeding grounds for countless bird species. The sanctuary’s five miles of trails offer excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and peaceful nature walks through some of Cape Cod’s most pristine landscapes. Year-round programs include guided bird walks, nature camps for children, and special events that highlight seasonal wildlife activity.
Phone: (508) 349-2615
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Discover the mysteries of the ocean at this world-renowned research facility where groundbreaking marine science comes to life through interactive exhibits and educational programs. Visit the Ocean Science Exhibit Center to learn about deep-sea exploration, climate research, and marine life through engaging displays and hands-on activities. The institution’s work in ocean exploration and conservation makes this a fascinating destination for anyone interested in marine science and environmental research.
Phone: (508) 548-1400
Cape Cod Lavender Farm
Wander through acres of fragrant lavender fields while learning about sustainable farming and the versatile uses of this beloved herb. The farm offers guided tours, lavender harvesting experiences, and workshops on essential oil extraction and herb gardening. The on-site shop features handcrafted lavender products, from soaps and sachets to culinary lavender and honey, making it the perfect place to take home a piece of Cape Cod’s agricultural heritage.
Phone: (508) 349-7714
Cahoon Museum of American Art
Appreciate the work of 19th and 20th-century American artists in this charming museum housed in a 1775 Colonial farmhouse. The museum specializes in paintings, folk art, and decorative arts that reflect American life and landscapes, with particular emphasis on Cape Cod and New England themes. Rotating exhibitions showcase both established masters and emerging artists, while the museum’s historic setting adds to the intimate viewing experience.
Phone: (508) 428-7581
Falmouth Heights Beach
Relax on this family-friendly beach overlooking Vineyard Sound where calm, warm waters make it perfect for swimming and water sports. The beach’s gentle slope and protected location create ideal conditions for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing, while the nearby boardwalk offers charming shops and eateries. The stunning views of Martha’s Vineyard across the sound, combined with beautiful sunsets, make this a favorite spot for both relaxation and recreation.
Phone: (508) 457-2567
Commercial Street Provincetown
Experience the heart and soul of Provincetown along this vibrant street lined with art galleries, unique boutiques, and some of the finest restaurants on Cape Cod. Street performers, artists, and an eclectic mix of shops create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in New England. The street’s historic architecture and colorful characters provide endless entertainment, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring, shopping, and people-watching.
Phone: (508) 487-3424
Cape Cod Baseball League
Catch America’s future baseball stars in action during summer games featuring the nation’s top college players competing in this prestigious wooden bat league. The relaxed atmosphere, affordable admission, and high-quality play create the perfect family entertainment experience. Many current and former Major League stars got their start in this league, making each game a chance to witness tomorrow’s professional players developing their skills.
Phone: (508) 432-6909
Pilgrim Hall Museum
Step back in time to explore authentic Mayflower artifacts and learn the true story of the Pilgrims’ journey to the New World through the oldest continuously operating museum in the United States. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Mayflower passenger possessions, including furniture, weapons, and personal items that bring this pivotal period in American history to life. Interactive exhibits and educational programs provide deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of early colonial life.
Phone: (508) 746-1620
Scargo Tower
Climb this historic stone observation tower for 360-degree panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay, cranberry bogs, and the surrounding countryside from 160 feet above sea level. The tower, built in 1902, stands in beautiful Scargo Hill conservation area where hiking trails wind through peaceful woodlands. The short hike to the top is rewarded with breathtaking vistas that showcase the diverse landscapes that make Cape Cod unique.
Phone: (508) 385-4730
Wellfleet Oyster Festival
Celebrate Cape Cod’s renowned shellfish industry at this annual autumn festival featuring fresh oysters, live music, and local crafts that showcase the best of Wellfleet’s maritime culture. Sample various oyster preparations from raw to grilled while enjoying performances by regional musicians and browsing works by local artists. The festival combines culinary excellence with community celebration, offering a taste of authentic Cape Cod culture and hospitality.
Phone: (508) 349-2510
Highland Light (Cape Cod Light)
Visit the oldest lighthouse station on Cape Cod, perched dramatically on clay cliffs 183 feet above sea level, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Truro’s pristine coastline. This historic beacon, dating from 1857, houses a museum that tells the story of Cape Cod’s maritime heritage and the lighthouse keepers who maintained this vital navigation aid. The surrounding Highland Links golf course and nearby beaches make this area perfect for a full day of exploration.
Phone: (508) 487-1121
Brewster General Store
Step into a piece of living history at this authentic 1852 general store that continues to serve the community much as it did over 150 years ago. Browse through penny candy, old-fashioned toys, local crafts, and specialty foods while experiencing the charm of 19th-century retail. The store’s original fixtures, wide-plank floors, and pot-bellied stove create an atmosphere that transports visitors back to simpler times while still offering modern conveniences and local products.
Phone: (508) 896-3744
Mayflower II
Board this full-size replica of the famous 1620 vessel and experience what life was like for the Mayflower passengers during their historic voyage to the New World. Costumed interpreters portraying actual passengers share their stories and demonstrate 17th-century shipboard life, making history come alive through interactive experiences. The ship’s authentic construction and attention to historical detail provide an immersive education in maritime history and colonial beginnings.
Phone: (508) 746-1622
Captain Edward Penniman House
Tour this magnificent Second Empire Victorian mansion built by a successful whaling captain, featuring ornate architecture and period furnishings that showcase 19th-century maritime prosperity. The house museum offers guided tours that reveal fascinating stories of the Penniman family and Fort Hill’s whaling heritage. The surrounding Fort Hill Trail provides beautiful views of Nauset Marsh and connects to the house, making it part of a perfect historical and natural experience.
Phone: (508) 255-3421
Chatham Railroad Museum
Explore Cape Cod’s railroad history in this restored 1887 Victorian train depot that houses fascinating exhibits about the railway lines that once connected the Cape to Boston. The museum features vintage railroad equipment, historical photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of how trains helped develop Cape Cod’s tourism industry. Interactive displays and seasonal special events make this a engaging destination for transportation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Phone: (508) 945-5199
Skaket Beach
Discover this hidden gem on Cape Cod Bay where expansive tidal flats during low tide create perfect conditions for beachcombing, clamming, and exploring tide pools with children. The beach’s west-facing orientation provides stunning sunset views across the bay, while the calm, warmer waters make it ideal for families with young swimmers. During high tide, the beach transforms into a perfect spot for kayaking and paddleboarding in the protected bay waters.
Phone: (508) 240-3775
Beech Forest Trail
Hike through one of Cape Cod’s most unique ecosystems where rare American beech trees thrive in freshwater and salt marshes behind the Province Lands dunes. This easy 1-mile loop trail offers excellent opportunities to observe diverse wildlife including deer, foxes, and over 100 bird species in their natural habitat. The trail’s elevated boardwalk sections provide stunning views of the forest canopy and protected wetlands while maintaining the delicate ecosystem’s integrity.
Phone: (508) 255-3421
Harwich Port
Stroll through this charming seaside village where historic sea captains’ homes line tree-shaded streets leading to a picturesque harbor and beautiful Nantucket Sound beaches. The village center features antique shops, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants that capture the essence of traditional Cape Cod coastal living. The nearby Wychmere Harbor offers boat charters, while the village’s beaches provide excellent swimming and sailing opportunities in the sound’s protected waters.
Phone: (508) 430-7532
Nickerson State Park
Camp, hike, or picnic in this 1,900-acre natural preserve featuring eight pristine kettle ponds perfect for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The park’s extensive trail system winds through pine forests, around crystal-clear ponds, and past diverse wildlife habitats that showcase Cape Cod’s inland natural beauty. Year-round activities include cross-country skiing in winter, camping from spring through fall, and excellent bird watching throughout all seasons.
Phone: (508) 896-3491
Sandwich Boardwalk
Walk along this historic 1,350-foot boardwalk that crosses pristine salt marshes and leads to a beautiful Cape Cod Bay beach perfect for swimming and relaxation. The elevated walkway provides excellent opportunities for bird watching and photography while protecting the fragile marsh ecosystem below. At the beach end, visitors can enjoy picnicking, beachcombing, and spectacular sunset views across the bay, making this one of Cape Cod’s most scenic and accessible waterfront experiences.
Phone: (508) 833-8012
Atwood House Museum
Explore Chatham’s rich maritime history through fascinating exhibits housed in this 1752 sea captain’s home, including the famous murals depicting local life and an impressive collection of seashells from around the world. The museum complex includes historic buildings, period rooms, and gardens that tell the story of Cape Cod’s development from colonial times through the present. Special exhibits rotate seasonally, while the museum’s research library provides valuable resources for genealogy and local history enthusiasts.
Phone: (508) 945-2493
Shining Sea Bikeway
Pedal along this scenic 10.7-mile paved trail that connects Woods Hole to Falmouth, passing through diverse landscapes including salt marshes, cranberry bogs, and pristine coastline. The trail offers spectacular views of Martha’s Vineyard and provides access to several beaches, making it perfect for combining cycling with swimming and picnicking. Multiple access points and bike rental locations make this trail accessible for riders of all abilities, while interpretive signs along the route educate visitors about local ecology and history.
Phone: (508) 548-8500
Truro Vineyards
Savor award-winning wines while enjoying panoramic views of Cape Cod’s rolling hills and distant ocean vistas at this family-owned winery that combines traditional winemaking with innovative techniques. The vineyard offers guided tours, tastings, and seasonal events that showcase both their wines and the unique terroir of Cape Cod’s sandy soils. The tasting room and outdoor deck provide the perfect setting to relax with friends while experiencing the growing reputation of Cape Cod wines.
Phone: (508) 487-6200
Dennis Village Cemetery
Discover Cape Cod’s earliest history while wandering among historic gravestones dating back to the 1600s in this peaceful cemetery where sea captains, early settlers, and notable residents found their final rest. The weathered headstones tell fascinating stories of Cape Cod’s maritime heritage, while the cemetery’s hilltop location provides beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. This quiet, contemplative space offers insight into colonial life and the families who shaped Cape Cod’s early development.
Phone: (508) 394-8300
Craigville Beach
Enjoy one of Cape Cod’s most popular family beaches on Nantucket Sound, featuring warm, calm waters perfect for swimming and a wide sandy shore ideal for beach games and sunbathing. The beach’s consistent gentle waves make it perfect for children and novice swimmers, while its central location provides easy access to nearby restaurants and accommodations. Lifeguards, restrooms, and ample parking make this an excellent choice for families seeking a full-service beach experience.
Phone: (508) 775-1008
Yarmouth Port Village
Walk through this perfectly preserved 18th-century village where historic sea captains’ mansions line the tree-canopied streets leading to antique shops, art galleries, and charming cafes. The village showcases some of Cape Cod’s finest examples of Federal and Greek Revival architecture, while the historic Yarmouth Port Common provides a glimpse into colonial New England village life. Nearby trails lead to picturesque mill ponds and conservation areas perfect for quiet walks and nature photography.
Phone: (508) 778-1008
