Cape Cod in Massachusetts is a popular summer destination with all sorts of activities that the whole family can enjoy. With more than 500 miles of stunning coastline and warm sandy beaches, waterfront fun is easy to come by. But that's just the beginning.
You'll find a wide variety of things to do in town and amongst its scenic outdoors whether you're looking for thrills or relaxation. Here are the top things to do in Cape Cod that are bound to make your holiday in this hook-shaped peninsula an unforgettable one.
What are the best things to do in Cape Cod?
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Cape Cod Rail Trail
A flat and easy ride through different ecosystems
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The Cape Cod Rail Trail is a 22-mile-long paved route that takes you through several diverse ecosystems in Massachusetts including portions that are right next to the beach. Often considered one of the best trails in all New England, this paved trail is an easy ride, great for a family day out hiking or cycling.
It's mostly flat and well-maintained, so it's the perfect solution for travellers looking for a relaxing ride. Plus, there are quite a few lunch spots along the trail's length, so you'll never have to go too far if you want to stop for a bite to eat.
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Cape Cod National Seashore
Explore the beautiful coast of this national park
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The Cape Cod National Seashore may just be the best part of your visit to Cape Cod if you're looking for relaxing beaches and picturesque landscapes. The region was designated as a national park by John F. Kennedy back in 1961, and it's been protected and well-maintained ever since.
You're treated to a scenic seascape that stretches for over 40 miles that changes from dunes to salt marshes and grassy hills. Not only can you explore the beaches, but there are several hiking and biking trails in the region from where you can take it all in. These add up to it being amongst your best things to do in Cape Cod for scenic outdoor adventures.
Location: 99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667, USA
Open: Daily from 9 am to 4.30 pm
Phone: +1 508-255-3421
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Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge
Cape Cod's fun and educational nature preserve
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The Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge has much to offer if you're looking to get closer to the natural world around Cape Cod. You'll find more than 7,600 acres of land including marshes and dunes.
Birdwatchers will especially enjoy the endeavour, as you'll find a wide variety of migratory seabirds here along with grey seals. Tours are available in the summer season, but you're always welcome to blaze your own trail with a map and decide for yourself how to experience the area.
Location: 1 Wikis Way, Chatham, MA 02633, USA
Phone: +1 508-945-0594
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Heritage Museums & Gardens
Explore the expansive flower and plant galleries
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At Heritage Museums & Gardens in Cape Cod, the whole family can enjoy a well-varied experience. Kids can ride the hand-carved carousel, while fans of cars can enjoy the antique car collection that depicts just how much cars have changed throughout the decades.
Of course, the star of the show here is the 100 acres of flowers, trees, and other flora that are sure to delight with their vibrant colours. Don't forget to let your little ones check out the Hidden Hollow area, too, with its sensory gardens and log balance beams.
Location: 67 Grove St, Sandwich, MA 02563, USA
Open: Monday–Wednesday and Friday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm
Phone: +1 508-888-3300
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Sandwich Glass Museum
See demonstrations and exhibits of a unique artform
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Sandwich Glass Museum is a great place in Cape Cod where you can learn about one of the most interesting kinds of art there is. You’ll be amazed especially when you consider what's involved with the process. Whether you just want to see glass art or learn about the process of creating it, you can visit the Sandwich Glass Museum for a demonstration.
In addition to live glassblowing, you'll also find thousands of pieces of glass including impressive crafts depicting a wide variety of shapes and objects in their design. You'll even find a few pieces you can bring home as a souvenir as well.
Location: 129 Main St, Sandwich, MA 02563, USA
Open: Daily from 9.30 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 508-888-0251
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Pilgrim Monument
One of Provincetown's most iconic landmarks
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The Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown may just be one of the area's most iconic monuments. It has a tower that sports a design reminiscent of towers you'd see in Europe centuries ago. That’s no surprise as it was commissioned as an ode to the Mayflower Pilgrims' first landing.
Towering 252 ft in the air, the tower even lets you climb the 10 minutes' worth of steps to its peak for panoramic views of the region. Additionally, you'll find an attached museum that shows off the fascinating history of Cape Cod and Provincetown.
Location: 1 High Pole Hill Rd, Provincetown, MA 02657, USA
Open: Thursday–Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm
Phone: +1 508-487-1310
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Edward Gorey House
Tour the house of the late great American artist
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The Edward Gorey House is a notable piece of history in Cape Cod, home to a late great American author and illustrator. While the name may not initially jump out at you, Edward Gorey was known for his work with PBS, on Broadway, and with T.S. Eliot.
When you tour this historical house, you can see much of his work on display along with his home where much of his work was created. This is further complemented by personal items offering a glimpse not only into his work but also into the details of his interesting life overall.
Location: 8 Strawberry Ln, Yarmouth Port, MA 02675, USA
Open: Wednesday–Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm, Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Phone: +1 508-362-3909
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The Cape Playhouse
See a show at Cape Cod's longstanding summer theatre
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The Cape Playhouse is one of the most iconic and revered summer destinations for theatre shows in all of Cape Cod. This theatre has been around since 1927 and exhibits stunning performances to this day – such as musicals, plays, and much more with a classic theatre experience.
Having been around for more than 90 seasons of shows, The Cape Playhouse boasts alumni the likes of Humphrey Bogart and Gregory Peck. The atmosphere within is rather chic as well with pews for seats – you won't be able to find a theatre experience like this anywhere else.
Location: 820 Main St, Dennis, MA 02638, USA
Open: Monday–Friday from 9 am to 5 pm (closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Phone: +1 508-385-3911
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Cape Cod Museum of Art
Admire 20th-century and contemporary artworks
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Cape Cod Museum of Art is the centre for art in the entire Cape Cod area, showcasing various works from the 20th century to the present day. It presents some of the best local artists in an effort to capture the unique identity of the cape and its surrounding islands.
In addition to their permanent collection, there is frequently changing diverse programming as well that allows you to explore certain artists and styles in more depth. Check out the surrounding sculpture garden where you can discover with impressive and intricate works scattered throughout.
Location: 60 Hope Ln, Dennis, MA 02638, USA
Open: Thursday–Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm (closed Monday–Wednesday)
Phone: +1 508-385-4477
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Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre
See a film at this longstanding alfresco cinema
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Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre is an outdoor theatre in Cape Cod that fully embraces the retro drive-in vibe. At the end of a long day at the beach, there's nothing quite like sitting back and watching a film. The Wellfleet Drive-In hosts double features every night during the summer.
Alternatively, sound from the film can be played through your car radio. You can even opt for mono speakers in your car just like they did in the '50s. The cinema sits between Wellfleet Flea Market and Maurice’s Campground. Before or after a film, don’t forget to grab an ice cream from Wellfleet Dairy Bar.
Location: 51 US Route 6, Wellfleet, MA 02667, USA
Phone: +1 508-349-7176
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