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.
The Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over 937 acres (379.19 hectares) of unblemished forest and scrubland. The sanctuary is home to hundreds of birds, mammals, reptiles, and plant life, making this place perfect for casual strolls amidst the beauty of nature, a bit of bird-watching, and photography. The Silver Spring Trail is a highlight of the sanctuary and should not be missed. The marvelous nature center displays numerous wildlife exhibits. This place is a wondrous green oasis in the midst of Cape Cod's touristy bustle and deserves a visit.
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.
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.
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.
The elegant Edward Penniman House and Barn dates back to the 1860s era. The house boasts of Penniman family's written records and articrafts which speak about the family's whaling voyages. The site was placed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
Situated in the southern region of the Cape Cod National Seashore, the Nauset Archeological District is a natural historic district, known to be a hub of the ancient Nauset settlement and made it their habitat since 4000 BCE. The Nausets would cultivate crops like beans, corn, tobacco, squash and were good fishermen too. The Nauset Archeological District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993.
The Three Sisters of Nauset is a set of three historic lighthouses that were erected in 1838. The white color contrasted with the black lanterns, so these lighthouses appeared like three ladies dressed in white with black bonnets and hence the name 'Three Sisters'. Visitors can explore these historical lighthouses.
Nauset Beach Light is a cast iron plate shell situated in Eastham, Massachusetts. Built in 1877, it stands 48 feet (15 meters) tall and has a rather long and interesting history behind it. Saved from decommissioning by the Nauset Light Preservation Society, formed by the local residents, the lighthouse was donated to the National Park Service in 1998. For those who visit the top, the view from the lighthouse is absolutely stunning, but tours are not as frequently conducted, so make sure to check the timings before you visit.