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.
As you drive Route 6 heading into Provincetown, you notice spectacular sand dunes rising to your right—just a hint of the hiking available if you enter them at one of various entry points. Information on the dunes and trail maps can be obtained at the Province Lands Visitor Center, which sits majestically atop a large dune and offers a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean and Provicetown beaches. Take a compass, water and good walking shoes, as the sand gets quite hot. Biking is also allowed. This is truly one of P-town's unique experiences.
If you want to get the family outdoors and get a little education while you're at it, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History hosts Family Field Walks year-round every Saturday and Sunday (and Monday-Friday in July and August). Explore the John Wing Trail at the museum with a trained naturalist, who will give you all the facts about marsh, oak-pine forest and beach habitats. The one-and-a-half hour walk covers 1.2 miles, so even the little ones can enjoy it. Cost is free with museum admission.
Dennis is a beautiful town that has charming old buildings and landmarks as well as gorgeous beaches. Try to visit Dennis during the summer, when it hosts events almost every week. However, anytime you visit you can count on great shopping and restaurants. Take the time to stop by Antiques Center of Cape Cod.
The Winslow Crocker House was built sometime in the late 1700s. It belonged to a rich trader, who was in the navy, of that time whose house was probably the most lavish. The beautiful Georgian architecture building in the early 1930s, Mary Thacher moved the house and rebuilt it just as it was at its present location. She used the house to display her personal collection of antique furniture. The furniture varies in styles and times - Queen Anne, Early American, Jacobean and others – and is also accented with suitable accessories. A visit to the house will tell you all about the original house, about the move to its current address and about the priceless antiques. Call ahead for their varying open days and other details.