Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA
The perfect 3 days itinerary
Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a charming peninsula known for its picturesque villages, maritime heritage, and stunning coastal landscapes. Stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod offers a blend of pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and quaint towns filled with unique shops and seafood restaurants. Visitors can explore the Cape Cod National Seashore, enjoy whale watching, or bike along scenic trails. This 3-day itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Cape Cod's natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and local flavors.
What to do in Cape Cod?
This 3 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Cape Cod. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Discovering the Outer Cape
Morning
Start your Cape Cod adventure at the Cape Cod National Seashore. Begin with a visit to the Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham to get an overview of the area's natural history and pick up maps for the trails. Take a leisurely hike along the Nauset Marsh Trail, offering stunning views of salt marshes and the Atlantic Ocean.
Afternoon
Head to Provincetown, located at the tip of the Cape. Explore the bustling Commercial Street, lined with art galleries, unique shops, and eateries. Don't miss the Pilgrim Monument, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the Cape. For lunch, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
Evening
End your day with a sunset visit to Race Point Beach. Known for its expansive sandy shores and beautiful dunes, it's the perfect spot to relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon. If you're lucky, you might even spot seals playing in the surf.
Day 2: Exploring Mid-Cape and Nantucket Sound
Morning
Begin your day in the charming town of Chatham. Visit the Chatham Lighthouse, an iconic landmark offering picturesque views of the coastline. Take a stroll along the Chatham Fish Pier to watch local fishermen unload their catch.
Afternoon
Drive to Hyannis, the largest town on the Cape. Explore the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, dedicated to the legacy of the 35th president of the United States. Afterward, embark on a scenic harbor cruise to see the famous Kennedy Compound and learn about the area's rich history.
Evening
Head to the village of Yarmouth for a relaxing evening. Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring local specialties like clam chowder and lobster. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the Bass River, one of the most scenic waterways on Cape Cod.
Day 3: Whale Watching and Historic Villages
Morning
Embark on a whale watching tour from Barnstable Harbor. Cape Cod is one of the best places on the East Coast to see these magnificent creatures up close. The tours typically last a few hours and offer an unforgettable experience.
Afternoon
After your tour, visit the historic village of Sandwich, the oldest town on Cape Cod. Explore the Heritage Museums & Gardens, featuring beautiful gardens, antique cars, and American folk art. Don't miss the Sandwich Glass Museum to learn about the town's rich glassmaking history.
Evening
Conclude your Cape Cod trip with a visit to Falmouth. Stroll along Main Street, lined with charming shops and restaurants. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local eatery, indulging in more of Cape Cod's renowned seafood. If time permits, take a short drive to Woods Hole to explore the marine science institutions and enjoy the scenic views.