Cape Cod
Cape Cod, a hook-shaped peninsula in Massachusetts, is a popular summer vacation spot. There are charming villages, seafood shacks, lighthouses, ponds, and bay and ocean beaches here. The John F. Kennedy Museum is the first stop on the Kennedy Legacy Trail through downtown Hyannis, where boats depart for the resort islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.
With its brightly colored clam shacks, shingle-style homes, and peaceful beaches, it's easy to see why Cape Cod - or simply "the Cape" to locals - is a popular summer destination for New England mainlanders. Beautiful bed and breakfasts nestle among rugged sand dunes, gorgeous bike routes wind through woodlands, and the seemingly endless beach is accented by bright kayaks and fishing boats. Life proceeds at a slower pace here, which adds to the appeal. While the Cape is a popular destination for celebrities and athletes, it is also a quiet place with a laid-back vibe.
Spend a day getting to know the Cape's artsy side by visiting Provincetown, a bohemian (and especially LGBTQ-friendly) seaport with eccentric art galleries and great whale-watching places. Then head south to Sandwich, the Cape's oldest town, where you'll see glass-blowing demonstrations and famous New England mansions. The area is divided into four distinct regions: the Upper Cape, Mid Cape, Lower Cape, and Outer Cape. Though you'll only need a few days to taste the Cape's beautiful beaches, stunning views, and delectable seafood, try to carve out a few weeks to experience the low-key vibes that enchant visitors each summer.
Location: New England, United States
Best time to visit: May, June, September or October
Ranking:
- #5 Best Weekend Getaways in New England
- #7 Best Family Vacations in the USA
- #14 Best Summer Vacations in the USA
Website: https://www.capecodchamber.org/