Cape Cod, Massachusetts is a great place to vacation whether it is a romantic getaway for two or a vacation with the entire family. But you may be wondering what are the best things to do in Cape Cod once you get there? There are some attractions that you simply do not want to miss and some less well known to you, but will still be well worth a time slot on your vacation agenda. Here are the top five must do’s on your visit to Cape Cod.
A Day at the Beach
No trip to the Cape would be complete without a visit to the Cape Cod National Seashore, one of the top attractions in the area according to U.S. News Travel. The East arm of the Cape was declared a national park by President John F. Kennedy, a frequent visitor of the Cape, in 1961. The national park stretches for 40 miles of seashore and hosts some of the most renowned beaches in the Cape, including Marconi Beach in Wellfleet, Race Point and Herring Cove in Provincetown, and Nauset Beach in Eastham. In addition to catching some rays and enjoying the water, there are plenty of trails for biking and hiking along the shore as well, making it a great stop for a day or two. So, if you’re planning to buy an e-bike that you can use in your family trips, you may visit the website of Aventon.
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The Thrill of the Ocean
While splashing in the ocean may be thrilling, the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Woods Hole will teach you a bit more about what’s lurking beneath the surface, according to Boston.com. The Institution is known throughout the world for its marine research and even better—it is free to visit. Walking tours of the center are offered, free of charge, during the months of July and August every Monday through Friday at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. There are also a selection of free presentations and seminars that you can take in as well, some that are change on a weekly basis.
See Works of Art Come to Life
Having browsed some of the local shops, you may have seen some blown glass pieces such as vases or lamps, and maybe you were curious how those pieces came to be. Lucky for you, one of the oldest glasswork businesses still in existence is located in Sandwich and you can visit. Pairpoint was founded back in 1837 and they are open for visitors Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. You and your group can go and witness firsthand the art of glassblowing and see works of art literally come to life in front of your eyes.
Become One with Nature
The wildlife on the Cape is simply spectacular, and there is no better place to take it all in than the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge in Chatham. The Refuge encompasses more than 7,000 acres protected land and marsh, and is even home to a decommissioned lighthouse. While visiting, be sure to look out for some of the migratory seabirds that nest in the Refuge.
With so many things to do in Cape Cod you may not know where to begin. If you can’t fit everything into one trip, you may need to plan another holiday soon. There is always a light (house) left on for you in Cape Cod!
Avery Wilson is a freelance write with two young kids
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