Top Ten “Don‘t Miss” Experiences on Cape Cod

In honor of our 10th anniversary of innkeeping, I thought I’d start a series of “Top Ten” lists. We’ve certainly made a few of these lists during our stewardship here on Cape Cod. We were named to the list of Top Ten Inns in North America 2020, Top Ten Inns in the U.S. 2020, Innkeepers of the Year 2020, Top Ten Romantic Inns 2020 and 2020. David Letterman has nothing on us!

First in the series? Top Ten “Don‘t Miss” Experiences on Cape Cod. We are often asked what to see and do by our guests, so we have some expertise when addressing the topic. The island is 65 miles long and 20 miles wide at its widest, but in some spots that narrows to 1-2 miles wide. Though it seems relatively small to traverse, in reality there is much to see and do beyond the beaten path and even more that you won’t find in a guide book. So here, in no particular order are the 10 most truly Cape Cod experiences to seek out when visiting this beautiful part of the world.

1. Drive the length of scenic Route 6A, the Old Kings Highway. Designated one of the 10 most scenic byways in America, the long and winding road will lead you through most of the towns and villages of the historic north side of the Cape, past old sea captains mansions, lovely shops and boutiques, and unique galleries.
2. Climb a lighthouse. Our favorite is Highland Light in Truro, where if you’re lucky you’ll spot a whale or two breaching off the coast from the top.
3. Take a picnic to Fort Hill in Eastham and walk the trails through Nauset Marsh.
4. Go on a whale watching excursion to Stellwagen Bank to see humpbacks, fin backs, and minkes. An awe-inspiring adventure that will most likely be the highlight of your trip.
5. Visit one of the National Seashore beaches. Play in the sand and frolic in the waves. Be a kid again.
6. Watch the commercial fisherman offload their catch of the day at the fish pier in Chatham. Keep an eye out for the gray seals that swim up to get a piece of the action.
7. Eat lobster and fried clams outside at an authentic “clam shack”. Roll up your sleeves and be prepared to devour every last succulent morsel. It’s definitely worth the effort.
8. Get out on the water in a boat, kayak, or sightseeing tour. Cape Cod is surrounded by the ocean and it greatly influences our weather and lifestyle. See for yourself the magic of “simply messing about in boats”.
9. Ride one of the many beautiful bike paths. Our favorite is the Shining Sea trail that traverses 11 miles from North Falmouth to Woods Hole passing through a cranberry bog, marshland, and forest and along both Buzzards Bay and Nantucket Sound. Pack a lunch or eat at the Fishmonger at the draw bridge at Eel Pond in Woods Hole.
10. Take in a live performance at one of our iconic theaters. Cape Playhouse showcases live theater and the Melody Tent spotlights musical talent from Rock to Country and everything in between.

Of course if you want even more ideas for how to spend your days and nights book a stay at our lovely Inn. We’ll serve you a fantastic breakfast and help you plan the perfect day on Cape Cod.