Famously known as the Cape Cod Light, the Highland Light is an active lighthouse and also said to be the tallest and oldest lighthouse on Cape Cod. The lighthouse is accessible to the public from May through October- tours are available too, while the grounds can be visited throughout the year. This lighthouse occupies a spot on the National Register of Historic Places as the Highland Light Station.
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.
Few people know that the pilgrims first struck land in Provincetown, on November 21, 1620, before continuing on to Plymouth. While anchored in Provincetown Harbor, the Pilgrims signed the Mayflower Compact, dedicating themselves to a community governed by democratic rule. This tower was built in 1910 to commemorate that landing, was modeled after the clock tower of the Palazzo Pubblico (specifically the Torre del Mangia) in Siena, Italy. A climb to the top affords one of the best views on the entire Cape, and the tower also incorporates the Provincetown Museum.
In 1914 Eugene O'Neill and others formed the Provincetown Players. In 1915 they converted a fish house into The Wharf Theatre, and Provincetown became a thriving art colony. Famous actors of the past like Max Eastman and Ann Harding performed with the Players, as did Richard Gere and Jill Clayburgh in more modern times. The theater was lost in a fire but the tradition continues with the work of the Provincetown Theater Company and the Provincetown Repertory Theatre. They hold an annual competition for emerging playwrights.
Provincetown, one of the most scenic towns on Cape Cod, is a treasure trove of culture, art, and history. The Pilgrims made their first New World landing here, and the historic Mayflower Compact was written and signed just off the coast. Later, an artists' colony began to flourish, attracting the intellectual elite and resulting in the establishment of many artistic and literary institutions. Today, Provincetown thrives as a cultural center and vacation destination and offers much in the way of leisure and exploration. Be it museums, historic landmarks, or the sun-dappled beaches that elevate its touristic appeal, plenty of memorable experiences await visitors. Also popular with the LGBTQ+ community, and with something new brewing each season, Provincetown makes for an exhilarating visit.
Chronicling the history of the Kennedy family, this museum offers a glimpse into the life of the 35th President through video and photo displays. Featuring an ornate interior, the museum is replete with memorabilia and other informative objects. It is one of the most prominent attractions on the peninsula.
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.
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.
Guyer Art Barn situated in the heart of Hyannis is an art gallery, workspace and a common meeting point for all the artists in the neighborhood. The exhibitions at this art gallery feature the work of talented local artists giving them the opportunity to display their artistic prowess. Various workshops and art classes are organized by experts in the field for the up and coming artists in the neighborhood who wish to learn from the best. Guyer Art Barn, apart from visual arts, also promotes performing arts and plays host to theater shows and concerts on a regular basis.
Benjamin Nye Homestead was built in 1678 and served as the residence of Benjamin Nye. The house was initially built in the shape of a saltbox and later renovated into a two storied structure in the 18th century. It is one of the oldest standing houses in the region and has on display 18th century furnishings and artifacts from the Victorian and Colonial period. They also have on display the entire genealogy of the Nye family and the building was registered under the National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
Schoolhouse Gallery is a popular local gallery that's the hub of the city's contemporary art. The gallery represents local, national, and international artists and exhibits beautiful paintings, prints, photographs, sculptures, and other beautiful artworks. The gallery puts on excellent and thought-provoking exhibitions that showcase the tremendous history and culture of the city. This gallery definitely deserves a visit when in the city.
The Captain Bangs Hallet House Musuem has been established so that people can witness the 19th-century lifestyle of sea captain, Captain Bangs Hallet. The historic house encompasses the study, the dining room, the parlors and the bedrooms which have been retained in such a way to make you feel a part of the family. Besides, one can also admire the artifacts and displayed items associated with the Civil War and with the rich Yarmouth history. For details, do visit their website.