What to Do in Provincetown, MA

Welcome to Provincetown, MA, a stunning beach town located on the tip of the Cape Cod peninsula. From whale-watching tours to restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, you’re sure to find something that’ll make your stay memorable. Experience the beauty of nature trails, explore the area’s rich history, and relax on some of the most stunning beaches around. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just some peace and quiet, Provincetown has something for everyone.

  • Whale-Watching Tours: Experience the beauty of the ocean and its wildlife up close
  • Relax on picturesque beaches like Herring Cove Beach and Race Point Beach
  • Take a stroll through Provincetown’s nature trails for wildlife spotting and birdwatching opportunities
  • Visit historical sites like the Pilgrim Monument and the Mayflower Society’s Museum to learn about the town’s history

Whale-Watching Tours

You can experience the beauty of the ocean and its wildlife up close by taking a whale-watching tour in Provincetown. With multiple whale-watching options available, you can choose a tour that best suits your interests and budget. Different tours offer different amenities, including binoculars, snacks, or even a deck BBQ. It’s important to remember that safety is a priority when out on the ocean. Follow the whale-watching tips set out by the tour company and pay attention to any safety instructions during the voyage. Also, be sure to wear proper clothing for the weather and sea conditions and wear a life jacket at all times.

You can also take extra precautions by researching the area before embarking on your tour. Make sure the boat is up to the safety standards set by the Coast Guard. Inquire about the experience and qualifications of the captain and crew. Finally, take into account the weather and sea conditions before deciding to embark on the tour. By following these whale watching safety tips, you can ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Beaches

After a whale-watching tour, take a break and relax on one of the many picturesque beaches in Provincetown. From Herring Cove Beach, which offers a stunning view of the Provincetown Monument, to Race Point Beach, which is perfect for swimming, there’s a beach for everyone. For those who want to explore the area even further, there are plenty of beach activities to participate in.

For a truly unique experience, try kayaking along the coastline. You’ll be able to observe the stunning shoreline and spot some of the local wildlife. Alternatively, you can rent a surfboard and take on the waves. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. No matter what type of beach activity you pick, make sure to follow the beach safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

For those who just want to relax, you can bring a blanket or towel and soak up the sunshine. Don’t forget to bring some sunscreen and stay hydrated with plenty of water. Enjoy the sound of the waves and the smell of the salty sea breeze. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a peaceful escape, there’s something for everyone in Provincetown’s beautiful beaches.

Restaurants

If you’re looking for some delicious food, Provincetown is the place to be. From local seafood dishes to international fare, you can find it all in this vibrant town. So come explore the many delicious dining options and tantalize your taste buds!

Local Cuisine

With plenty of eateries to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect restaurant for your taste buds in Provincetown. Whether you’re looking for freshly caught seafood or a local brewery, you can find it here. Provincetown offers visitors a wide variety of options, from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants. You can also find classic New England dishes like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and fish and chips. But if you’re looking for a more unique experience, there are plenty of places for you to explore. Try a local microbrewery, like the Offshore Ale Company, for a truly unforgettable experience. Or, visit the Lobster Pot for a delicious seafood feast. For a more upscale experience, try The Red Inn for a romantic dinner or the Canteen for a unique take on classic American fare. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find the perfect spot in Provincetown for a delicious meal.

Dining Options

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a romantic dinner, Provincetown offers plenty of restaurant options to suit any taste. From waterfront restaurants with inspiring views of the harbor to cozy outdoor dining spots tucked away in the winding streets, you’ll find something to satisfy your culinary cravings. Here’s a few of the top choices:

  • The Lobster Pot – Enjoy classic New England seafood dishes in a casual atmosphere.
  • The Mews – Dine on creative American fare in a fun, upscale space.
  • Cafe Heaven – A popular spot for breakfast and lunch with a variety of vegan and gluten-free options.
    No matter what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to enjoy in Provincetown.

Shopping

You’ll find plenty of unique shopping experiences in Provincetown. Whether you’re looking for one-of-a-kind boutiques or artisan markets, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful coastal town. You’ll find art galleries with local artworks, clothing stores with unique fashions, and gift shops with souvenirs and trinkets to take home.

Explore the shops on Commercial Street, one of the most popular shopping areas. Here you’ll find everything from clothing and jewelry to books, cards, and home décor. Stop into one of the many bookstores to find a great read, or browse the art galleries and pick up a piece of art to take home.

If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, visit the Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM). Here you can find handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and paintings by local artists. You can also find art supplies, books, and other items related to art.

The Provincetown Farmer’s Market is another great spot for shopping. Every Tuesday from May to October, you’ll find fresh produce, art, jewelry, and other handmade items. There’s also live music and a variety of food trucks.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of unique shopping experiences in Provincetown. From one-of-a-kind boutiques to artisan markets, you’re sure to find something special.

Nightlife

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the nightlife in Provincetown. The town is full of cozy bars, late-night hotspots, and other spots for night owls to explore. Here are a few of the best places to check out for a fun night on the town:

  • The Boatslip Resort & Beach Club: This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s a great place to dance the night away with a sunset beach party, live music, and a variety of tasty drinks.
  • The Atlantic House: This Provincetown staple has been around since the 1800s, and it’s still a great spot for late-night revelry. It’s an LGBTQ-friendly bar, and it has a robust beer selection to boot.
  • The Purple Feather: This laid-back bar is perfect for those looking for a chill evening. It has a relaxed atmosphere and a rotating selection of craft beers and cocktails.

No matter what kind of nightlife experience you’re looking for, Provincetown has it. From late night bars to dance clubs, there’s something for everyone.

Nature Trails

Take a stroll through the natural beauty of Provincetown with a hike on one of the many nature trails. The trails are full of wildlife spotting and birdwatching opportunities, making it a great outdoor activity for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer trek, there’s a trail for everyone.

The Pilgrim Monument Trail is a great place to start, offering stunning views of the harbor and a chance to explore the area’s history. Nearby, the Beech Forest Trail is a popular spot for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of species to observe. For a more challenging hike, the Head of the Meadow Trail offers breathtaking views and a chance to spot some of the rarest birds on the Cape. No matter which route you take, you’ll be sure to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility that Provincetown has to offer. With so much to explore, it’s easy to see why nature trails are one of the best things to do in Provincetown. From wildlife spotting to birdwatching, a hike in Provincetown is sure to leave lasting memories. Now that you’ve experienced the beauty of its nature trails, it’s time to explore its historical sites.

Historical Sites

Pilgrim Monument

Frequently, you can visit the Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown, a testament to the town’s status as the site of the original Mayflower landing. Here you can explore the history of the Pilgrims and the Mayflower’s journey. Get a better understanding of their legacy with themed tours, which provide insight into Pilgrim history.

Erected between the years of 1907 and 1910, the Pilgrim Monument stands as a lasting tribute to the Mayflower Pilgrims’ inaugural landing in Provincetown, which took place on November 11, 1620.

Soaring to an impressive height of 252 feet and 7.5 inches, or roughly 77 meters, the monument magnificently elevates itself 350 feet above the sea level, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. For those concerned about cardiovascular health, a trek up the monument is not only enlightening but also heart-friendly. Comprising 116 steps intermingled with 60 ramps, the ascent is reasonably paced and can generally be completed in around 10 minutes if taken leisurely.

Notably, the Pilgrim Monument has the distinction of being the tallest structure in the United States constructed entirely of granite. The sourced granite for this towering marvel originates from Stonington, Maine, and each individual stone used in construction perfectly matches the thickness of the walls. The monument’s architectural design draws its inspiration from Italy’s iconic Torre Del Mangia located in Siena.

Willard Thomas Sears, an esteemed architect with a flourishing career during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is credited with the monument’s captivating design. Among his portfolio of notable works are Boston’s Old South Church, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and the Cyclorama, as well as Campobello Park situated in New Brunswick, Canada.

As you ascend the monument, you’ll be greeted by an assortment of interior stones, each generously donated by various American cities, towns, and organizations. Keep an eye out—you might just spot a stone from your own hometown.

Marking the monument’s construction, President Theodore Roosevelt ceremoniously placed the cornerstone on August 20, 1907. A few years later, President William H. Taft led the official dedication ceremony, held on August 5, 1910, to celebrate the monument’s completion.

The Pilgrim Monument operates under the stewardship of the Provincetown Museum, which holds the honor of being Cape Cod’s most venerable non-profit and cultural establishment.

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