The Top Things to Do and See in Cape Cod, Massachusetts

The Race Point Lighthouse was the third lighthouse built on Cape Cod
The Race Point Lighthouse was the third lighthouse built on Cape Cod | © Susan Candelario / Alamy Stock Photo
Natalie Guerrero

Cape Cod is a popular vacation spot for New Englanders – whether it’s hiking, swimming, shopping or visiting the free aquarium, there’s plenty to see and do. Here’s our list of the best, after all of which you can cool off with some ice cream.

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Cape Cod Rail Trail

Hiking Trail

© Antony SOUTER / Alamy Stock Photo

Get outside and explore the Cape Cod Rail Trail. This 22mi (35km) trail is popular with bikers, horseback riders and adventurers and is the best way to experience the Cape’s natural attractions, all while being adventurous and active.

Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre

Movie Theater, Theater

Take a break from the beach to visit the Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre. This outdoor venue has a minigolf course nearby and a playground right in front of the screen. Complete with a vintage vibe, it’s the last drive-in movie theater on Cape Cod.

Commercial Street

Historical Landmark

© Mira / Alamy Stock Photo

Take a walk down Commercial Street in Provincetown, Cape Cod’s shopping and tourist hotspot. It offers everything you can imagine, so stop to get a bite to eat or check out the souvenir shops.

Four Seas Ice Cream

Ice Cream Parlour, Ice Cream

After a long day at the beach, stop by Four Seas for a pint of some refreshing ice cream; you will not be disappointed. Make sure to bring cash, as this place is an old-school, cash-only joint.

Cape Cod National Seashore

Natural Feature

© Ian Dagnall / Alamy Stock Photo

The Cape Cod National Seashore spans 40mi (64km) and is an absolute must-see. Walk along the beautiful beach, appreciate the rolling dunes, take a dip in the ocean or go on a self-guided tour via a bike. Spending a day here is the perfect way to relax.

Gull Pond

Natural Feature

Gull Pond is Cape Cod’s best-kept secret. Tucked between Wellfleet and Truro, it’s one of the only springs left from the Ice Age and offers a host of activities, including swimming, kayaking and fishing.

Race Point Lighthouse

Museum

© Lighthouses by Allan Wood / Alamy Stock Photo

Visit this beautiful historic lighthouse for lovely views and to learn about Cape Cod’s cultural history – it was the third lighthouse built on the island. For those looking for a bit of an adventure, it offers tours throughout the summer, making a visit worthwhile.
Visit this beautiful historic lighthouse for lovely views and to learn about Cape Cod’s cultural history – it was the third lighthouse built on the island. For those looking for a bit of an adventure, it offers tours throughout the summer, making a visit worthwhile.

Sandwich Glass Museum

Museum
The Sandwich Glass Museum houses rare glasswork from Boston and beyond. Indeed, it has some of the most beautiful art pieces in this medium on display. The exhibits range from handmade, locally made works of art to rare findings and natural sand glass.

Catch a Cape Cod baseball game

Park

© New England Pix / Alamy Stock Photo

The Cape Cod Baseball League, a competitive summer league, offers fans of America’s favorite pastime a great way to spend an afternoon. Find the schedule online, buy some hotdogs and Cracker Jacks, and enjoy a day at the park.

Woods Hole Science Aquarium

Aquarium

For vacationers on a budget, visit the Woods Hole Science Aquarium – admission is free. Established in 1885, it’s the oldest public aquarium in the US and is home to more than 140 species, including seals, toadfish and horseshoe crabs.

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