Top Ten Off the Beaten Path Summer Activities on Cape Cod

1.    Take a sail on a whale watch

In Barnstable, Hyannis, or Provincetown, board one of several whale watching fleets and catch a glimpse of whales, including the famous humpback. Enjoy a boat ride, an education of marine wildlife in Cape Cod, and an unforgettable encounter with nature.

2.    Go to a movie at, or at least visit, the Cape Cinema theater

This small, unassuming building on Hope Lane in East Dennis is actually home to a beautifully painted mural by Rockwell Kent on the ceiling, claimed to be the largest single mural in the world when it was built. There’s also a plaque claiming that this theatre hosted the world premier of the Wizard of Oz. More than just a sight-seeing spot, though, this gorgeous, old one-theater building with white silk covered armchairs and gourmet food at the concession stand still hosts movies today! So grab some popcorn and be sure to check out this one-of-a-kind movie theater!

3.    See a play at the Cape playhouse

At this beautiful old playhouse, professional plays are put on every week in the summer. The skilled actors and detailed sets welcome you into an inviting and convincing show. A great way to spend a summer evening out, see if you’re interested in the show currently playing and give it a shot!

4.    Have lunch at the Chatham Bars Inn

If you’re staying at a hotel in Cape Cod and can afford a few nights here at this luxurious hotel, even better! But either way, a stop by for brunch, lunch, or dinner here will not disappoint. A wide selection of surf, turf, and vegetation combine with the sweeping ocean view and pristine white sand to create a relaxing and refreshing experience. If that’s not enough, there’s valet parking and a kid friendly menu. Be sure to take a stroll down the part of the sand permitted to diners and take a look in the grand hotel lobby across the street.

5.    Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail

22 miles long, it runs through Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet. I can’t think of many better ways to spend a sunny afternoon than pedaling along a smooth, shady trail past fields, marshes, beaches, and cranberry bogs. Bikes can be rented on either end of the trail.

6.    Shoot some holes at Pirates Cove mini golf course

This fun, somewhat interactive mini golf course transports you to a world with pirates lurking around every corner. It features two separate courses including Captain’s course and Blackbeard’s course. Be prepared for waterfalls, sharks, vengeful pirates, and firing cannons!

7.    Visit the Cape Cod Natural History Museum

Here you can observe local wildlife both inside the museum through photographs and in the aquarium, and outside the museum on a nature walk.

8.    Go kayaking on the Bass River

There are many spots to start your journey where you can rent boats and life vests. Which one is the best depends on your location and on the tide. Either way, you’ll have an exciting and refreshing adventure and see some incredible wildlife.

9.    Shop at the Brewster General Store

A beautiful old building that still looks and feels like an old-fashioned local general store, they have candy, ice cream, fudge, souvenirs, and toys. Remember to try out the old calliope on the first floor as well.

10.    Visit the historic Chatham Lighthouse

Built in 1808, the lighthouse has been rebuilt several times but stands proudly today. You can climb the lighthouse or just take a tour of the base.

These are just ten of the great experiences and activities Cape Cod has to offer, so if you have a chance this summer, consider a trip up to the Cape!

Kathryn Blanco is a member of the Youth Travel Blogging Mentorship Program.

Photo courtesy and copyright Kathryn Blanco.