3 min read
Grays Beach Boardwalk
This place has marshland and ocean all in one place, you cant beat it! Plus we heard the sunsets are gorgeous here!
See more hikes, visit our blog Top 5 Hiking...
All of these attractions are seasonal and may have varied operating schedules. Please know before you go, assume that you need advanced reservations and check directly with these attractions before heading out.
4 Ox Bow Road, Falmouth, MA 02536
508-457-5592
The Orlandella Family comes from the small village of San Sossio Baronia, Italy where it has long been known for its fertile soils, quality fruit production and where the people are known for their passion and craft of winemaking. To continue the tradition locally, the Orlandella's purchased the Cape Cod Winery in 2013. Their grapevines are planted on a splendid site with sandy gravel soil and gentle slops which are ideal for wine grape growing and parallel the great vineyards of southern France and Italy. The European wine grape varieties we have chosen are particularly suited to the special terroir of the Cape. The extraordinary wines produced from these fruits reflect the very special character of the Cape Cod sun, soil and climate that may be savored in each sip.
Coonamessett Farm & Inn
277 Hatchville Road, East Falmouth, MA 02536
508-563-2560
Coonamessett Farm is a twenty-acre farming and research enterprise located in Falmouth. The Farm has been serving public and private sector clients locally and globally since 1989. There are some resident animals like alpacas, chickens, sheep, donkeys and goats. The General Store carries fresh produce, gourmet condiments, and vegetarian foods. The Loft Gift Store offers many hand-made gifts, woven baskets, alpaca items, soaps, kids’ items, and more! The Farm also features special events throughout the season, such as Vegetarian Grills and Jamaican Buffet nights (see website for more details). To pick crops in the field or visit with the animals, visitors need to either be a member or purchase a day pass. However, having a great lunch, sitting under the pavilion, and visiting the Farm Stand and Gift Shop do not require a pass or membership!
Cornelia Carey Sanctuary/The Knob
Quissett Harbor Road (the very end), Falmouth, MA 02540
Discover twelve acres of beautiful land that serve as an ideal location for bird watching, strolling, beach combing, and swimming at The Knob (also known as Cornelia Carey Sanctuary). With lovely views of Buzzard’s Bay and Quissett Harbor, The Knob is a local treasure. Swimmers should be aware that there is no lifeguard on duty.
Highfield Hall & Gardens/Beebe Woods
56 Highfield Drive, Falmouth, MA 02540
508-495-1878
Highfield Hall is the magnificently restored 1878 home of the Beebe family, and is currently a cultural and community focal point of the greater Falmouth area. Family functions, art exhibits, historical lectures, public parties, festivals, property tours, cooking programs, concerts, and craft classes are all hosted at Highfield Hall. Surrounding Highfield Hall is the Sunken Garden and Beebe Woods, which are both spectacular spots to visit for nature lovers. The Sunken Garden is a photo-ready must-see when flowers are in bloom. Beebe Woods, with its gorgeous scenery, sprawling paths, and calm atmosphere, is beloved and frequented by locals of all ages and athletic abilities. Admission is required to explore Highfield Hall during visiting hours and ticket prices for classes, concerts, programs, etc. vary. During the off season, Highfield Hall is only open for special events, so be sure to call ahead or log in to the website for detailed information. Admission to the Sunken Garden and Beebe Woods is free and the grounds are open year-round from dawn to dusk.
137 Gifford St., Falmouth, MA 02540
Take a look at what the locals are working on while exploring their galleries. The Falmouth Art Center has many classes in a variety of art forms for all to try!
Falmouth Kite Park
399 Grand Ave, Falmouth, MA
Located at the Falmouth Harbor and on the corner of Falmouth Heights Road and Grand Ave. Grab a kite from Celebrations of Cape Cod downtown and head to the Falmouth Kite Park for some kite flying fun!
Falmouth Village on Main Street
Stroll Falmouth Village for some local shopping, local restaurants, and beautiful views!
Nobska Point Lighthouse
Open Year-Round
Nobska Road, Woods Hole, MA 02543
Nobska Point Lighthouse sits at the division of Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound. While this lighthouse is not open to the public for tours, it is a wonderful spot to take photographs. Nobska Point is one of the most photographed and easily accessible lighthouses on the Cape.
Shining Sea Bikeway
The Shining Sea Bikeway is a paved path that spans from North Falmouth to Woods Hole. Most of the Bikeway is removed from roads, and the roads it does run along and/or intersect with are typically free of heavy traffic, which gives the path a peaceful, secluded atmosphere. With beautiful views of sandy shores, old farmhouses, woodlands, and cranberry bogs, it’s a hotspot for visitors and residents of Cape Cod.
Open Year-Round
45 Fells Road, Falmouth, MA 02540
508-548-0623
Take a leisurely walk in this beautiful 6-acre Cape Cod woodland garden located on Oyster Pond in Falmouth. Spring brings thousands of daffodils, followed by azaleas, rhododendrons, and, then, daylilies. Come sit by the pond, bask in the beauty of the flowers and birdsongs, and enjoy the tranquility. The grassy paths are decorated with nautical treasures and other artifacts collected by Charles Spohr in his lifetime. Margaret and Charles D. Spohr created this wondrous setting around their home in the 1950s, and welcomed the ever-growing number of visitors who had heard of its beauty. Admission is FREE but tax-deductible donations are accepted.
742 Livernois St., Falmouth, MA
Pick your own pumpkins or frolic through the sunflowers! Tony Andrews Farm has some fall decorating and pumpkin carving too!
WHOI Ocean Science Exhibit Center
15 School Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543
508-289-2663
Visitors of the Ocean Science Exhibit Center will learn about the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s ocean science research and the vessels and tools developed by WHOI engineers and scientists. Brief videos introduce WHOI, demonstrate a day in the life of the deep submersible Alvin, and highlight the 1985-1986 discovery and exploration of the Titanic. Visitors can step inside a full-size model of the inner sphere of Alvin and view vivid footage taken at deep-sea hydrothermal vent sites. Other exhibits and videos feature the life forms and natural processes of the deep sea. In July and August, walking tours are offered at scheduled times that detail the history and research of WHOI. A donation of $3 per person 10 years old and older is suggested. For groups of ten or more people, please call to make a reservation.
Woods Hole Historical Museum
579 Woods Hole Road, Woods Hole, MA 02543
508-548-7270
The Woods Hole Historical Museum is a small museum with ever-changing exhibits and diverse programs. Founded as an adjunct to the Woods Hole Library to establish and preserve a collection of objects and materials of cultural, historical, and artistic value, it has grown to a campus of several buildings housing exhibits, workshops, and archives. The Museum Archives, also known as the Woods Hole Historical Collection, are open for research year-round on Tuesdays and Thursdays and by appointment. The Museum galleries are open late June through early October, Tuesday through Saturdays. A guided walking tour of Woods Hole takes place every Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. during July and August.
Open Year-Round
166 Water Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543
508-495-2001
Established in 1885, the Woods Hole Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in the country! The small public aquarium displays approximately 140 species of marine animals found in Northeast and Middle-Atlantic U.S. waters. The aquarium features an outdoor seal pool, twenty tanks, and fifteen aquaria with fish and invertebrates, two touch tanks where children can gently touch marine animals, and a behind-the-scenes area where visitors can talk to the staff as they go about their daily tasks of caring for the animals. Come see the newly renovated seal tanks and meet Bumper and Luseal! Admission is FREE, and donations are accepted. For groups of ten or more people, please call to make a reservation. Adults must have photo IDs to enter. Closed on Federal Holidays.
Cape Cod Children’s Museum
Open Year-Round
577 Great Neck Road South, Mashpee, MA 02649
508-539-8788
Cape Cod Children’s Museum is a non-profit organization that aims to provide a learning environment that stimulates curiosity, creativity, and imagination, inspiring children and their families to engage with each other, the community, and the world at large. In addition to over twenty interactive exhibits, Cape Cod Children’s Museum also offers a pirate ship, an indoor planetarium, daily programs, a gift shop, and more. Most exhibits and activities are geared towards children between the ages of 6 months to 8 years old.
Green Briar Nature Center & Jam Kitchen
Open Year-Round
6 Discovery Hill Road, East Sandwich, MA 02537
508-888-6870
With nature trails, a jam kitchen, and programs for kids and adults you will find a quiet sanctuary of peace and beauty in all seasons at Green Briar. Located on the shores of Smiling Pool and adjacent to the famous Briar Patch of Thornton Burgess’s stories, Green Briar offers interpreted nature trails and a spectacular wildflower garden. Natural history programs for children and adults include classes, field trips, guided walks, workshops, and nature-related birthday parties. Adjacent to Green Briar is the 57-acre Briar Patch Conservation Area, home of Peter Rabbit and many of the other Thornton Burgess animal characters. Walking trails are open to the public.
Heritage Museums & Gardens/Adventure Park
67 Grove Street, Sandwich, MA 02563
508-888-3300
Heritage Museums & Gardens is famous for its Dexter Rhododendrons that begin blooming in late May through early June. The grounds consist of a naturalized woodland park on the edge of upper Shawme Pond. A Shaker-style barn houses the J. K. Lilly III Antique Automobile Collection. The American History Museum hosts an impressive collection of military miniatures, antique firearms, and the distinguished bird carvings of A. Elmer and Cleon Crowell. An operating, hand-carved carousel and many of America's most distinguished artists' works are on exhibit. Heritage Museums & Gardens has miles of walking paths, outdoor activities, and three museums featuring American art. The Adventure Park, which opened in 2015, allows participants to soar through trees, navigate across planks, ropes, cables, and platforms, and explore five different “aerial trails” designed for everyone from beginners to seasoned adventurers. Beneath the aerial trails is the beautiful Forest Walk for those who’d prefer to observe Adventure Park participants amidst the natural beauty of Heritage. Visitors are welcome to bring their own lunch, although no alcoholic beverages are allowed. Pets are prohibited.
Naukabout Beer Company
13 Lake Avenue, Mashpee, MA 02649
Visit their website to see what is on tap and which food truck (weekends only) will be there.
Boardwalk Road, Sandwich, MA 02563
The long, beautiful Sandwich Boardwalk is a Cape Cod gem. Read the names engraved on the planks, take in the astounding scenery, and snap photos you’ll cherish for years to come. The Sandwich Boardwalk is FREE to visit.
Sandwich Glass Museum
Open February – December
129 Main Street, Sandwich, MA 02563
508-888-0251
The Sandwich Glass Museum boasts over five thousand glass creations and features exhibits and demonstrations. Glass-blowing demonstrations take place every hour on the hour beginning at 10:00 a.m. Admission fees have a tendency to change, so call the Museum to ask about rates prior to arriving. It is recommended that visitors arrive at least thirty minutes before closing in order to enjoy the museum!
Cape Cod Beer Brewery
Open Year-Round
Cape Cod Beer Brewery, 1336 Phinneys Lane, Hyannis, MA 02601
508-790-4200
Tour Cape Cod’s only microbrewery and learn how the beer is made! Tour takes 45 minutes. Children must be accompanied by adults. Attendants must be 21 years old to sample beers. Guided tours occur once daily Monday through Saturday at 11:00 a.m. The self-guided tour consists of a tasting session and a reading guide. The tasting bar is directly adjacent to the production area. There is plenty to see and learn! There is also a nice retail area with gifts and local items. During retails hours, each beer tasting includes five, 3oz samples and a souvenir tasting glass for $6. The sale of samples stops thirty minutes prior to closing and the sale of pints stops fifteen minutes prior to closing. During the summer months, there is a hot dog truck on-site. However, visitors are welcome to bring their own snacks or order delivery from local restaurants.
Cape Cod Maritime Museum
Open Mid-March – Mid-December
135 South Street, Hyannis, MA 02601
508-775-1723
The Museum showcases the Cape’s maritime history with a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits. The exhibits are designed to appeal to all age groups. The Museum also features maritime art, educational programs, classes, lectures, and entertainment.
John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum
Open Mid-April – November
397 Main Street, Hyannis, MA 02601
508-790-3077
John F. Kennedy Museum is a multimedia exhibit designed to provide a glimpse into the life of JFK on Cape Cod; days spent relaxing with family, playing football with PT109 buddies, and sailing on the ocean to which he was so drawn. The exhibit features over 80 photographs spanning the years 1934 to 1963 and is arranged in thematic groupings to reflect John F. Kennedy, his family, his friends, and his beloved Cape Cod. In addition to photography, a video narrated by Walter Cronkite depicts the president’s experiences on the Cape. Several themed areas include charged oral histories of JFK’s friends.
Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary
Open Year-Round
345 Bone Hill Road, Barnstable, MA 02637
508-362-7475
Hours: Open daily dawn-dusk
Ponds, vernal pools, buttonbush swamp, salt marsh, and other habitats make this 110-acre sanctuary a haven for many species of wildlife. Along the trails, you will find groves of tupelo, holly, and spruce trees. Surprisingly large oak and red maple trees are interspersed throughout the property. The trails are easy to walk with gentle slopes along mowed grass paths ending with a spectacular view of Barnstable Harbor. Watch the sunny open meadows for resident goats and sheep, many different species of butterflies and dragonflies, and a pair of red-tailed hawks.
Toad Hall Classic Sports Car Museum at The Simmons Homestead Inn
Open Year-Round
288 Scudder Avenue, Hyannis Port, MA 02647
508-778-4934
Come view this extensive private collection of classic cars owned by Bill Putman, Innkeeper at The Simmons Homestead Inn. The collection became available for the public to view in 2003. Featuring more than 50 cars inside and out, with most from the 50s – 80s, the collection is extensive. Most of the vehicles are English, and all are red!
Cape Cod Museum of Art
Open Year-Round
60 Hope Lane, Dennis, MA 02638 (Off Route 6A)
508-385-4477
The Cape Cod Museum of Art’s mission is to collect, conserve, study, interpret, and exhibit works by artists associated with Cape Cod and the Islands. Through its programs, the museum seeks to preserve the artistic heritage of the area and to foster artistic and cultural growth within the individual and the community. Visit CCMA to discover the Cape through historical and contemporary artists. See exhibitions in seven galleries, stroll through the sculpture garden, visit the Artful Hand Gallery for unique gifts, explore your creativity in year-round art classes for adults and children, be inspired through various lectures by artists and scholars, enjoy special events throughout the year, and view independent films in The Screening Room. Bring the kids any time for ArtQuest, an exploration of details from exhibits.
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
Open Year-Round
869 Route 6A, Brewster, MA 02631
508-896-3867
The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History features exhibits on local flora and fauna, whales, indigenous birds, mollusks, and much more. There are interactive children’s activities, nature trails, lectures, and workshops. Hours change frequently, sometimes on a weekly basis, so please call or visit the Museum’s website prior to visiting.
Edward Gorey House
Open mid April – December
8 Strawberry Lane, Yarmouth Port, MA 02675
508-362-3909
A truly prodigious and original artist, Edward St. John Gorey produced over 100 works (including The Gashlycrumb Tinies, The Doubtful Guest, and The Wuggly Ump), prize-winning set and costume designs for innumerable theater productions, and a remarkable number of illustrations in publications such as The New Yorker and The New York Times and in books by authors such as Charles Dickens, Samuel Beckett, John Updike, Virginia Woolf, H.G. Wells, and many others. His well-known animated credits for the PBS Mystery series have introduced him to millions of television viewers. Gorey’s masterful pen and ink illustrations and his ironic, offbeat humor have brought him critical acclaim and an avid following throughout the world. Features an exhibit on Gorey’s children’s books.
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf
Open Mid-April – October
728 Main Street, South Yarmouth, MA 02664
508-394-6200 or 508-394-5252
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf features two 18-hole miniature golf courses (the bold Blackbeard’s Course and the imaginative Captain’s Course) and Pirate’s Cove Marketplace, a gift shop with Blackbeard’s arcade, ice cream, pirate gifts, and other goodies! Pirate’s Cove has been featured in countless articles and received numerous awards for being one of the best destinations to visit for a fun-filled time on Cape!
Scargo Tower
Open Year-Round
152 Scargo Hill Road, Dennis, MA 02638
Scargo Tower began as a tourist observatory in 1874. Made of wood, it was destroyed in a gale 2 years later. Rebuilt again of wood, it burned in 1900. The present cobblestone tower opened in 1901. The 30 foot high tower is located atop the highest hill in the mid-Cape. Indian legends tell of the making of both Scargo Hill and Scargo Lake. Views may be seen of the entire lower cape to Provincetown, and as far west as Plymouth.
Maps of Antiquity
Open Year-Round
1409 Main Street (Route 28), Chatham, MA 02633
508-945-1660
Set in an old Chatham farmhouse built in the late 1700s, Maps of Antiquity offers over 15,000 antique maps and prints. The distribution is worldwide with a focus on the Northeast. Inventory includes American maps from the late 1770s, nautical charts, town maps, hand-colored 19th century county and state maps, reproductions, natural history and historical prints, and more! Maps of Antiquity was named “Top Shop” on Cape Cod in 2014, and truly is a fascinating, unique, and educational destination.
Reservations highly recommended.
Please see website for directions and call for reservations.
Art’s Dune Tours
Early April – Mid-November
4 Standish Street, Provincetown, MA 02657
1-800-894-1951
Art’s Dune Tours, one of Cape Cod’s oldest and most beloved attractions, has been wowing visitors since 1946. Travel through dunes stretching off into the horizon with wispy beach grass, pine trees, and vibrant peach plums underneath the blue sky. Tour guides will point out “dune shacks” where famous artists and writers like Eugene O’Neill and Harry Kemp sought inspiration. The fleet of Suburbans are enclosed, air-conditioned, and can hold 6-8 passengers. For something special, upgrade a Sunset Tour to a New England Clambake Tour and experience the beauty of a traditional sunset dune tour with a traditional New England clambake dinner served picnic-style. Be sure to check the website since it’s frequently updated with special events, offers, and FAQs.
Dolphin Fleet Whale Watching of Provincetown
Open Mid-April – Mid-October
307 Commercial Street, Provincetown, MA 02657
1-800-826-9300
Join the Dolphin Fleet for a fun-filled adventure with whales and other marine life off the shores of Provincetown and Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. When you partake in a voyage with the Dolphin Fleet, you’re in for an exciting and educational experience. A naturalist accompanies every cruise to discuss the ecology and natural history of Cape Cod and the Massachusetts Bays with an emphasis on whales, birds, and other marine life that passengers are likely to see. All cruises are 3-4 hours in duration. Scheduled information for all trips is subject to weather conditions, so please call for updated trip times. Schedule times can vary daily; trips may be added or removed depending on demand, weather, or other factors. For information on a particular date and time please call the office directly. Reservations are required for all trips and the total number of passengers must be stated.
Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum
Open April – November
1 High Pole Hill Road, Provincetown, MA 02657
508-487-1310
The Pilgrim Monument commemorates the history of the Mayflower Pilgrims, their arrival and stay in Provincetown Harbor, and the signing of the Mayflower Compact. It is the tallest all-granite structure in the U.S. and visitors can walk to the top on a series of stairs and ramps. During the climb, visitors will see many stones donated by cities, towns, and organizations from all over the U.S. The view from the top is spectacular. Once you’ve visited the Monument, stop by the Provincetown Museum, which has extensive exhibits depicting important events and people in Provincetown history. The last monument climb takes place thirty minutes before closing.
Provincetown Art Association and Museum
Open Year-Round
460 Commercial Street, Provincetown, MA 02657
508-487-1750
The Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM) is a nationally recognized, year-round cultural institution that fuses the creative energy of America’s oldest active art colony with the natural beauty of outer Cape Cod that has inspired artists for generations. PAAM embodies the qualities that make Provincetown an enduring American center for the arts, and serves as the Cape’s most widely attended art museum. PAAM presents an ever-changing lineup of exhibitions, lectures, classes, and cultural events that seek to promote and cultivate appreciation for all branches of the fine arts. Appointments can be made for days and times that fall outside regular hours.
Province Lands Visitor Center
Open May - mid October
171 Race Point Road, Provincetown, MA 02657
508-487-1256
The Province Lands Visitor Center is at the northern end of Cape Cod National Seashore. The observation deck at the visitor center provides a 360-degree view of the Province Lands dunes, the Outer Beach, and the Atlantic Ocean. From this location observers can see Race Point Ranger Station, Race Point Beach, the old Harbor Life-Saving Station, and the Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown. Exhibits about local plants and animals and the Pilgrim’s landing in Provincetown are featured. The indoor theater routinely screens 5 short films daily on a rotating schedule.
Race Point Beach
Race Point Road, Provincetown, MA 02657
Race Point Beach is arguably the most popular beach on Cape Cod due to its natural beauty, vast expanse of sand, proximity to Race Point Lighthouse, and regular sightings of seals and whales. It is a popular destination for surfers visiting Cape Cod since it tends to have rougher waters than most Cape beaches.
Salt Pond Visitor Center
50 Nauset Road, Eastham, MA 02642
508-255-3421
Salt Pond Visitor’s Center is the main visitor facility for the Cape Cod National Seashore. It features frequent orientation movies, a museum, a bookstore, restrooms, and walking trails. The indoor theatre routinely offers five shorts films daily on a rotating schedule. The Center is closing to the 1-½ mile Nauset Marsh Trail, the ¼ mile multi-sensory Buttonbush Trail, and the Nauset Bicycle Trail. If you’re planning to visit Cape Cod National Seashore, stop by the visitor center for information.
Jenney Museum
May – Mid-November
48 Summer Street, Plymouth, MA 02360
508-747-4544
The Jenney Museum is the top-rated “Thing to Do in Plymouth” and has been awarded the Certificate of Excellence. The Museum consists of rotating exhibits, historical tours, special programs, a gift shop, and more, most of which expounds on the many facets of the pilgrims’ lives. Hours and admission prices are subject to change; call ahead prior to visiting. Tours and special programs affiliated with the Museum often have additional fees.
Pilgrim Hall Museum & Gift Shop
Open Mid-February – December
75 Court Street (Route 3A), Plymouth, MA 02360
508-746-1620
Pilgrim Hall is a gallery museum in historic Plymouth that was built in 1824. It is the nation’s oldest continuously operating public museum, which features an amazing collection of Pilgrim possessions and artifacts. Pilgrim Hall also gives information on the Wampanoag Indians whom inhabited the area for thousands of years prior to the arrival of the new settlers. Visitors will see a wonderful collection of American history paintings, as well as exhibits.
Plimoth Patuxet Museum
Late March - November
Plimoth Plantation: 137 Warren Avenue, Plymouth, MA 02360
Plimoth Grist Mill: 6 Spring Lane, Plymouth, MA 02630
508-746-1622
Plimoth Plantation’s main attractions include Plimoth Grist Mill, the 17th Century English Village, the Wampanoag Homesite, the Craft Center, Plimoth Cinema, the Mayflower II, the Visitor Center, the Nye Barn, and more! From rare animal breeds to a full-scale reproduction of the Mayflower to a recreation of the community built by the Pilgrims, there is an abundance of areas to explore that will educate and excite both adults and children.
Sparrow House Museum & Gallery
42 Summer Street, Plymouth, MA 02360
508-747-1240
Come visit the Richard Sparrow House, Plymouth’s oldest house. Rich with history, this home also features an art gallery and gift shop.
This place has marshland and ocean all in one place, you cant beat it! Plus we heard the sunsets are gorgeous here!
See more hikes, visit our blog Top 5 Hiking...
This is a historic place in Falmouth where you can get a spectacular views of Quissett Harbor and Buzzards Bay!
See more hikes, visit our blog Top 5 Hiking Trails...
We are no stranger to Cape Cod summers...beaches everywhere you turn, outdoor dining, and fun outdoor activities. BUT Cape Cod's beauty doesn't fade when the season...