A sizable stretch of green, in the Cape Cod region, Nickerson State Park is a must visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Covering a massive 1,967 acres (796 hectares) this state-owned park is peppered with sandy soil, scrub pines and a number of kettle ponds that make it one of the richest and most diverse ecosystems in the area. Featuring numerous hiking trails, trek routes, campgrounds and fishing areas, this is also one of the hot-spots for outdoor activities and nature tours.
The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History's main objective is to make people more aware of the environment and their surroundings. The museum is divided into two floors dedicated to the flora and fauna of the region which includes exhibits on whales, birds, reptiles and amphibians found in the region. There is a library for extra research and a shop where you can find souvenirs to remind you of the environment around you. The museum also holds various activities to provide a learning experience for children as well as adults! Admission and open hours vary seasonally.
Although referred to as a bike trail, this paved path also welcomes walking, running, horseback riding and rollerblading. Built on an old railway bed, the scenic 25-mile (40-kilometer) trail takes you from Yarmouth to Dennis to Wellfleet via cranberry bogs, lakes and towns. Nickerson State Park, off Route 6A in Brewster, maintains the trail and is at the halfway point.
This brick tower is not remarkable for its architecture; it does, however, have a great view. Located on top of the 160-foot (50-meter) Scargo Hill in Dennis (the highest point on the Cape), a clear day allows views of the Provincetown Monument and mainland Massachusetts. In almost any weather condition you can see Scargo Lake, which was named after a Native American princess. You may find it a romantic spot too, especially for sunsets and star gazing.
A whale watch is a must when visiting Cape Cod. Step aboard a 100-foot boat and travel past the Cape Cod National Seashore to the open ocean. The boats concentrate on an area known as the Stellwagen Bank - a deep fissure in the ocean floor that is home to a favorite whale delicacy, the sand eel. Naturalists narrate during the cruises. There is a snack bar on board and passengers can bring their own picnic. The trip takes about four hours.
First designated as a protected site by the United States government in 1961, the sprawling 43,607-acre (17,647 hectare) Cape Cod National Seashore offers stunning vistas and a glimpse into the natural and cultural history of the area. The park boasts a number of swimming beaches, as well as nature trails, picnic areas, freshwater ponds, historic lighthouses and Cape Cod-style residences. Avid hikers and explorers will relish the opportunity for adventure offered by the scenic paths slicing across the landscape. The seashore makes a great day trip, but for those who would like to stay longer there are several resorts, hotels and motels nearby.
The McDermott Glass Studio gives a look at the fine contemporary glass work done by David McDermott, Yukimi Matsumoto and Bryan Randa. They have created pieces for well known people like Pope John Paul II, Empress of Japan, Henry Kissinger and many more. Their pieces are displayed at Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Corning Museum of Glass which shows their natural talent in art. The gallery has a number of items like vases, bowls, stemware and solid ware. The experience of the Mcdermott Glass Studio Jam is not to be missed where world class glass artist come together to display their work.
Elizabeth Lowell Park in Cotuit is a field and park maintained by the Cotuit Athletic Association. It is home to the Cape Cod Baseball League's Cotuit Kettleers team during the summer months and also hosts a variety of outdoor and athletic events throughout the year.
The Monomoy Point Light is a historic lighthouse located at the Monomoy Island. It was initially built as a wooden tower in 1823 but was later reconstructed as a cast iron structure in 1849. Spread across an area of 4 acres (1.6 hectares), the light was functional until 1923. Time has not taken a toll on this structure as the lighthouse has been preserved well. Open to the public, tours of the lighthouse are conducted, where the visitors can get acquainted with the light's history and the scenic views it has to offer.
Located in the heart of Osterville village, the Osterville Baptist Church dates back to 1837. For more than 250 years, this humble structure has been serving as the sacred home of the Baptist Christian community in Osterville. The church was designed in Gothic Revival and Greek Revival style by architect Simeon Deyo. The church is a simple white structure with a steeple at its front entrance. Check website for schedule of masses and other events.
Situated at the tip of the Cape Cod, the Long Point Light House was marked as an entrance to the harbor. Standing 36 feet high, the light of this lighthouse goes up to 15 miles and is of great help to those in the sea.