19+ Fun Things to Do on Cape Cod

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Cape Cod is bigger than you might think— it stretches over 65 miles and is made up of 15 different towns, each with its own little personality. So when people ask for the best things to do on Cape Cod, it’s kind of hard to narrow down! We spent 4 ½ days exploring the area, squeezing in as much as we could, and still left with a list of things I want to do next time. This post includes my favorite stops from our trip plus a few I’m already planning to check out when we go back.

We visited Cape Cod in May and chose the week of Memorial Day—pro tip: that’s when a lot of places start opening for the season but it’s still relatively quiet (as long as you avoid Memorial Day weekend itself). We totally lucked out with the weather—3 out of 4 days were perfect, and everything was in bloom. The flowers were everywhere and the whole Cape felt like it was just waking up from winter.

So if you’re looking for fun things to do on Cape Cod, especially in the spring or early summer, here are some spots that stood out—and a few that I know are worth a visit next time!

Things to Do on Cape Cod

1. Explore Commercial Street in Provincetown

If you’re looking for one of the most iconic things to do on Cape Cod, start with Commercial Street in Provincetown. It’s full of life—colorful shops, art galleries, ice cream stands, and a whole lot of personality. It’s the kind of place where everyone is unapologetically themselves, which makes it so fun to just wander!

We popped in and out of stores, grabbed coffee, and just enjoyed soaking it all in. You’ll see rainbow flags flying, quirky signage, and the most eclectic mix of people. Definitely don’t rush this one—just take your time and enjoy the energy.

Honestly, there are so many fun things to do in Provincetown, definitely spend a good chunk of time here if you can!

2. Hit the Beach

Beaches are obviously one of the top Cape Cod attractions, and Race Point Beach was one of our favorites. The sand had this golden tone that reminded me of Hawaii, and the water—while still chilly in May—was super clear.

Whether you’re there to swim, sunbathe, or just take in the views, Race Point is gorgeous. Other popular Cape Cod beaches include: Coast Guard Beach (Eastham), Skaket Beach (Orleans), and Mayflower Beach (Dennis).

3. Dune Tour with Art’s Dune Tours

This is one of the most unique on Cape Cod! Art’s Dune Tours takes you through the stunning Cape Cod National Seashore—areas you can’t access by car and would otherwise have to hike to.

I personally loved that we could kick back and enjoy the views while our guide shared so much interesting history and fun facts. If you’re short on time or want something memorable and scenic, this is such a cool way to explore the dunes without breaking a sweat!

4. Grab a Lobster Roll at Lobster Pot in Provincetown

You can’t visit the Cape without having a lobster roll, and Lobster Pot in Provincetown really delivered. It’s right on the waterfront with great service and a big menu full of seafood favorites.

We went classic with the lobster roll and added oysters Rockefeller because our server raved about them—and they were absolutely worth it. Everything came out super quick, and even though it’s a popular spot, it didn’t feel touristy. Just one of those must-hit spots for your Cape Cod food bucket list!

5. Walk Around Chatham Main Street

Chatham was one of the cutest towns we visited during our four days on the Cape. Chatham Main Street is classic New England charm with beautifully maintained storefronts, mom-and-pop shops, and a great little candy store that smelled like nostalgia.

We loved browsing through the local boutiques. It’s a great way to slow down a bit and enjoy the charm that makes Cape Cod towns so special!

6. Check Out the Sandwich Boardwalk

The Sandwich Boardwalk is a peaceful gem that stretches through a marsh and leads you right out to the beach. It’s a super scenic walk with that classic Cape Cod charm—wooden planks, wildflowers, and the smell of salt air. When we went there were families and kids jumping into the water.

Parking is close by and easy (huge win), and it’s one of those low-effort, high-reward spots that make you fall in love with the area.

7. Visit the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (AWSC) Shark Center

If you’re even remotely fascinated by sharks (or have someone in your group who is), the AWSC Shark Center in Chatham is such a cool stop. Cape Cod is home to a growing population of great white sharks thanks to its healthy seal population, and this center gives you an inside look at the research and conservation work being done in the area.

It’s small but super informative—interactive exhibits, videos, and even real shark tracking data. A great rainy-day activity or a quick educational break between beach stops!

8. JFK Museum in Hyannis

The JFK Hyannis Museum focuses on JFK’s time spent on the Cape with his family, especially around Hyannis Port, and includes lots of photos, memorabilia, and stories that make it feel really personal.

It’s not overwhelming or super long—just enough to give you a glimpse into the Kennedys’ Cape Cod connection. Plus, downtown Hyannis has shops, restaurants, and that classic Cape energy to explore afterward!

9. Eat All the Seafood (Seriously)

You can’t go to Cape Cod and not go on a full seafood binge—it’s basically a rite of passage. We made it our mission to try as many spots as possible, and some totally stood out:

• The Pilot House in Sandwich had an amazing location right on the water and super fresh fish dishes.
• Lobster Pot in Provincetown is an icon for a reason—the lobster rolls and oysters are everything.
• Mac’s Fish House (locations in Wellfleet, Provincetown, and Chatham) was so good, with super fresh options and casual vibes. Plus, be sure to try one of their oyster flutes!
• Chatham Pier Fish Market had the freshest tuna sandwich. You can watch the fishing boats come in too!
• The Dolphin Restaurant in Barnstable served the most insanely good baked scallops—still thinking about them!

If you’re visiting Cape Cod for the food, this list is a solid place to start—don’t forget to try a stuffed quahog (basically a giant baked clam, and so good!).

10. Go Whale Watching

One of the most memorable things to do on Cape Cod is definitely a whale watching tour. Tours run out of Provincetown and Hyannis, and both spots give you access to Stellwagen Bank—a prime feeding ground for humpback, fin, and minke whales.

We went out of Hyannis, and saw so many humpbacks and a ton of dolphins! Most tours last 3–4 hours (1 1/2–2 if you go out of Provincetown) and come with a naturalist on board, so you’re learning as you go.

11. Walk the Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth

This one totally lived up to the hype, even with gloomy skies when we went. The Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth (also known as the Gray’s Beach Boardwalk) stretches out over salt marshes and gives you these wide, open views that feel super peaceful.

I’ve heard it’s especially magical at sunset. It’s a great stop if you’re looking for scenic places to walk on Cape Cod and want something low-key but beautiful!

12. Sip Your Way Through Cape Cod’s Wineries

Yep—Cape Cod has wineries! And they’re seriously so charming. We visited Truro Vineyards (up near Provincetown) and fell in love with the vibe. The setting is beautiful, and they have outdoor tastings, a cute gift shop, and even a food truck on site. The wine was good, but honestly, it’s the atmosphere that totally sold it.

Another spot worth checking out is Cape Cod Winery in East Falmouth—it’s further down the Cape.

13. Check Out Cape Cod’s Iconic Lighthouses

Cape Cod has over a dozen lighthouses, and they’re such a classic part of the landscape here. Some are easier to access than others, but a few of the most iconic include:

• Nauset Light (Eastham) – You’ve probably seen this one before—it’s the red and white beauty on the Cape Cod potato chip bag! Super photogenic and easy to visit.
• Highland Light (Truro) – The oldest and tallest lighthouse on Cape Cod, with a cool little museum and great views.
• Chatham Lighthouse (Chatham) – Right across from Chatham Beach, this one’s great for photos and you can sometimes catch it open for tours.

Even if you just stop by one or two, it’s worth it to soak in that classic Cape Cod charm.

14. Pop into the Cutest Cafes

If you love a good coffee stop as much as I do, you’re going to love Cape Cod. We found so many cute coffee shops during our trip! Hyannis had a bunch of fun ones (check out Mariner Cafe and Great Awakening Coffee), but we also stumbled on some gems in other towns—Provincetown had a couple I wish we had more time to try.

Check out all of my must-visit cafes here!

15. Visit the Heritage Museums & Gardens

Located in Sandwich, Heritage Museums & Gardens was one of those places that totally surprised me! It’s this peaceful space that mixes beautifully kept gardens with cool museum exhibits (like antique cars!). We went in late May and the flowers were everywhere, which made it extra stunning.

If you’re looking for one of the more relaxing things to do on Cape Cod that still feels unique, this is such a good pick.

16. Wander the Artist Shanties in Hyannis

The Artist Shanties in Hyannis are such a fun stop. These colorful little huts line the harbor and are filled with work from local artists—paintings, ceramics, jewelry, you name it. I loved chatting with the artists and seeing how their work is inspired by the Cape. It’s such a great way to support local creatives and find a souvenir that’s meaningful!

17. Try to Spot Seals at the Chatham Pier Fish Market

Apparently, Chatham Pier is known for its seals—especially when the fishing boats come in—but we didn’t spot any when we went. To be fair, it was cold and rainy that day, so I’m guessing they were smarter than us and stayed hidden!

Even without the seals, though, the Chatham Pier Fish Market is worth the stop. We grabbed lunch here and the seafood was so fresh!

18. Bike or Walk Shore Road in Chatham

This scenic stretch along the coast in Chatham is seriously stunning. We only drove it this time (again, this was our cold and rainy day), but I can totally see how biking or walking it on a sunny day would be such a vibe.

You’ve got those dreamy Cape Cod homes, ocean views, and such a peaceful coastal energy.

19. Visit the Spot Where the Pilgrims First Landed

Did you know the Pilgrims actually landed in Provincetown before making their way to Plymouth? You can visit Pilgrims First Landing Park to see the spot where it all began—and get some beautiful views while you’re at it.

For a deeper dive into the history (and some seriously stunning photo ops), head to the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum. It’s home to the tallest all-granite structure in the U.S., and you can climb to the top for panoramic views of Cape Cod that are totally worth the steps.

Things to Do on Cape Cod That Are Still on My List

Even after packing so much into our 4-day Cape Cod trip, there are still a few things I’m dying to go back for. Here’s what’s on my list for next time:

• Take a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket – Both islands are just a ferry ride away and have their own unique charm. I’ve heard amazing things about the lighthouses, beaches, and towns on both.
• Explore the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute & Woods Hole Science Aquarium – Located at the southwestern tip of the Cape, this area is full of marine science history and hands-on exhibits that I’d love to check out.
• Bike the Shining Sea Bikeway – This 10+ mile trail runs from Falmouth to Woods Hole along the coast, with views of salt marshes, cranberry bogs, and the ocean!
• Visit the Church of the Transfiguration – This hidden gem in Orleans is supposed to be absolutely beautiful, with hand-crafted mosaics and a serene setting.
• Explore Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge – Located in Chatham, this area is known for its walking trails, bird watching, and remote beach views. I can’t wait to go when the weather is better.
• Check out a new museum like the Sandwich Glass Museum, Whydah Pirate Museum, or Cape Cod Maritime Museum – I love mixing in a little history and art on trips, and these all look super interesting!
• Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail – This might be one of the best things to do on Cape Cod if you want to see a bunch of towns in a fun, active way. It’s over 25 miles long and stretches through charming towns like Brewster, Orleans, and Wellfleet!

Where to Stay on Cape Cod

Deciding where to stay on Cape Cod can definitely feel a little overwhelming—the Cape is bigger than you might expect, with over a dozen different towns that each have their own charm.

We based ourselves in Hyannis, mostly because it’s pretty central and we were able to book an IHG hotel with points—so it was basically free! It ended up being a great home base for exploring different parts of the Cape, but I will say I would’ve loved to stay at an inn with a little more character. Next time, I think I’d split the trip—a couple of nights in Provincetown and a couple more in either Hyannis again or Chatham.

Here are a few of the most popular areas to stay and some hotel options to check out:

Provincetown – For a fun, artsy, walkable vibe at the tip of the Cape

This town is full of character and is one of the most unique places on the Cape. Great for nightlife, art galleries, shopping, and incredible dining.

• Lotus Provincetown – One of the more affordable options with a location right on Commercial Street
• Anchor Inn Beach House – A charming beachfront option
• Brass Key Guesthouse – Adults-only and super charming with a pool and great views

Chatham – For classic Cape Cod charm and a central location

This town totally gives that quintessential Cape Cod feeling—think white picket fences, little boutiques, seafood shacks, and scenic beaches.

• Chatham Bars Inn – Iconic luxury stay with beachfront views and amazing amenities
• The Chatham Wayside Inn – Walkable to town and super cute
• Queen Anne Inn – Quaint, historic, and peaceful

Hyannis – For convenience and easy access to ferries

Hyannis is more developed and commercial, but it’s super convenient if you’re planning day trips or want easy access to the ferries for Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket.

• Anchor In Hotel – Waterfront with great views and walkable to downtown
• Hyannis Harbor Hotel – Great location right across from the ferry
• Cape Cod Harbor House Inn – Affordable and well-located

Which of these fun things to do on Cape Cod are you checking out first?!

There are so many fun and beautiful things to do on Cape Cod, and I feel like we only scratched the surface during our four-day trip. Cape Cod totally lived up to the hype! I hope this guide helps you plan your own adventure—whether you’re packing it all into a long weekend like we did or stretching it out for a more laid-back stay. Let me know what’s at the top of your list!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other blog posts:

Newport, Rhode Island day trip

Fun things to do in New York City

New England fall road trip itinerary