Things To Do & Attractions
Hyannis Artist Shanties
Hyannis Harbor * two locations along Ocean Street* 12 seaside studios * Hyannis
Artists change weekly throughout the season.
Visit often and discover new faces and a variety of artwork each week.PARK AND WALK: It is easy to spend art-FULL days in downtown Hyannis HyArts Cultural District, Complementary and metered parking lots are steps away from Main Street & Hyannis Harbor. Visit the artist shanties, Main Street Hyannis, museums, shops, restaurants and more, all walkable from the surrounding public parking lots.
2022 HYANNIS HYARTS ARTIST SHANTY HOURS:
Always OPEN FROM starting in June 11:00am.
Closing time varies, spring dates until 6:00pm and at least 8:00pm in July & August
Artists frequently open early and stay late!
Stroll through the colorful seaside Hyannis HyArts Artist Shanties. Visitors will find something handmade, hand designed or hand crafted by local artists in two locations along the Walkway-to-the-Sea, at the Harbor Overlook, 51 Ocean Street and Bismore Park, 180 Ocean Street, Hyannis.
Artwork varies each week and can include photography, jewelry, painting, fiber arts, glass, ceramics, rope work, mosaics, woodworking, window art and more.
A must stop on your way to or from Main Street (where you will find over 40 restaurants and 120 locally owned shops) you will discover Cape Cod artists working and selling their hand-made, crafted and designed wares. Work includes a variety of media, everything from ceramics, mosaics, and wood working to fiber art, paintings, jewelry and more. There is no fee to browse and of course if purchases are made it is a fabulous way to shop local and support the creative economy.
The shanties are named for the town’s seven villages and each shanty at Bismore Park features past and present images of the villages. The Harbor Overlook shanties are named for town beaches.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
The program, which first started in 2005 with just 11 artists, has expanded to now include up to 100 artists who rotate throughout the season, displaying their work at two locations along the Walkway-to-the-Sea. The Town run artist shanty program provides affordable rental space for Cape Cod artists and artisans to work and sell at these “seaside studios”.
This program provides prime visibility and opportunities for artists to gain and improve business, marketing and selling skills, connect with other artists and meet visitors from around the region and the world.
Kayak & Canoe Rentals
Bass River Kayaks and Paddle Boards
118 Main St, West Dennis, MA 02670
With a sand beach launch, picnic benches and additional free parking, we're happy to offer an additional location to our customers. Located 1/3 of a mile from our other location, right at the foot of the Bass River Bridge.
Cape Cod Waterways Kayak Rentals
16 Main St, Dennis Port, MA 02639
Cape Cod Waterways is the best time on Swan Pond River that a family, group or individual can have. Enjoy the scenery and wildlife that CCW has to offer. Kayak, Canoe, Stand up Paddle Board or Pedal Boat your way around the river at your leisure or utilize the river as part of your personal exercise regimen. Fun and enjoyment for all ages!
Rideaway Adventures
449 MA-6A, East Sandwich, MA 02537
This concept became a reality on July 16, 2008 when we first opened our doors and delivered our first kayak. Since that day we have been able to get thousands of people educated about our unique Cape ecosystem by getting them out on the water and experiencing it first hand.
Rideaway Adventures does deliver to Hyannis!
Special Discount Code for Hyannis Inn Guest to receive 10% off: HYANNISINN
The Chatham Kayak Company
391 Barn Hill Rd, Chatham, MA 02633
Paddle Board today at the Chatham Kayak Company. Call today and make your reservation for the best that Chatham has to offer. Here on Oyster River you can experience the true beauty of Chatham.
Lighthouses
Nauset Lighthouse
Nauset Light, officially Nauset Beach Light, is a restored lighthouse on the Cape Cod National Seashore near Eastham, Massachusetts, erected in 1923 using the 1877 tower that was moved here from the Chatham Light. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Race Point Lighthouse
Race Point Light is a historic lighthouse on Cape Cod, in Provincetown, Massachusetts; it is on the National Register of Historic Places. The original tower, first illuminated in 1816, was replaced in 1876 with the current 45-foot tall iron-plated tower and a new keeper's dwelling.
Chatham Lighthouse
Chatham Lighthouse, known as Twin Lights prior to 1923, is a lighthouse in Chatham, Massachusetts, near the "elbow" of Cape Cod. The original station, close to the shore, was built in 1808 with two wooden towers that were replaced in 1841 in spite of questions as to why a single tower would not be adequate.
Sandy Neck Lighthouse
Sandy Neck Light is a lighthouse on Sandy Neck, in West Barnstable, Massachusetts, at the entrance to Barnstable Harbor. It was first established in 1826. The current tower was built in 1857 and strengthened in the 1880s. It was discontinued in 1931, replaced by a skeleton tower, which was discontinued in 1952.
Highland Light
The Highland Light is an active lighthouse on the Cape Cod National Seashore in North Truro, Massachusetts. The current tower was erected in 1857, replacing two earlier towers that had been built in 1797 and 1831. It is the oldest and tallest lighthouse on Cape Cod.
Golf
Bass River Golf Course
(508) 398-9079
Bass River Golf Course, in Yarmouth, Massachusetts, was founded in 1900. In 1914 it was redesigned and expanded by golf course architect Donald Ross. A beautiful 18 hole layout featuring wide fairways, small greens and views of Bass River.
Cape Cod National Golf Club
(508) 240-6800
Cape Cod National is an 18-hole championship golf course located in Brewster, Massachusetts. Founded by John Pfeffer and his wife Linda, Cape Cod National opened its doors in 1998.
The Captains Golf Course
(508) 896-1716
The Captains is Cape Cod’s premier public golf course facility, located in Brewster, Massachusetts – the golf capital of the Lower Cape! We also feature a fully stocked Pro Shop as well as full restaurant amenities for outings and banquets. The course is conveniently located off the Mid-Cape Highway.
Cranberry Valley Golf Course
(508) 430-5234
CVGC offers a championship layout designed by noted architects Geoffrey Cornish and William Robinson. It was rated ‘Excellent’ by Zagat Golf Guide, given ‘4 Stars’ by Golf Digest, and voted as ‘Best of Cape Cod’ 2011. CVGC boasts excellent conditions.
Dennis Highland Course
(508) 385-8347
Dennis Highlands is a par 71, sixty five hundred-yard championship golf course. It is situated on 175 acres of pine and oak covered rolling ground on the north side of Dennis, in the village of Dennis. Designed by Jack Kidwell and Mike Hurdzan and opened for play in 1984. Dennis Highlands may be the “Crown Jewel” in the traditional list of fine Cape Cod golf courses. It is a course marked by an impressive entranceway among wild flowers and trees, leading to a beautiful clubhouse.
Dennis Pines Golf Course
(508) 385-8347
Dennis Pines is a par seventy-two, seven thousand-yard championship golf course. It is situated on 170 acres of pine forest land in the Village of East Dennis. Designed by Henry C. Mitchell and opened for play in 1966, Dennis Pines has long been noted as one of the toughest layouts on Cape Cod. Tree lined corridors place a great premium on accuracy rather than distance. Water comes into play on four holes, and the twelfth hole is recognized as one of the most difficult par fives anywhere.
Hyannis Golf Course
(508) 362-2606
Hyannis Golf Course sits at the geographical center of Cape Cod, just minutes from downtown Hyannis, the Barnstable Airport and the Ferries to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. This course is a par 71 with 18 holes and the area's best practice facilities, which include a 55-station practice range and two practice greens. Play at Hyannis is not to be missed.
Mini Golf
Harbor Lights Mini Golf
Open, tree-lined mini-golf course with a waterfall hosting birthday parties for all ages.
81 Underpass Rd, Brewster, MA 02631
(508) 896-2691
Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf
Pirate-themed mini-golf chain with 18-hole, landscaped courses set among waterfalls & caves. All ages can "meet the challenge" on our two 18-hole championship courses. Test your luck, mates, on the imaginative Captain's Course or the bold Blackbeard's Course. Discover the fun!
728 Main St, South Yarmouth, MA 02664
(508) 394-6200
http://www.piratescove.net/south-yarmouth
Putters Paradise
A lighthouse, fisherman, whale & pink octopus adorn this mini-golf course with an ice cream stand. Putter's Paradise opened in 1979 and is one of Cape Cod's most popular Mini-Golf destinations. Whether you are young, or young at heart, our Mini Golf course is sure to give you an enjoyable day in the heart of West Yarmouth, Cape Cod.
119 MA-28, West Yarmouth, MA 02673
(508) 771-7394
https://www.puttersparadise.net
Skull Island Miniature Golf
Experience Cape Cod mini golf at its finest! Our theme based mini-golf course features a beautifully landscaped course to take you past cascading waterfalls, over alligator infested waters, through a haunted treasure cave, and a Swiss Family Robinson Tree House. Miniature golf course in Yarmouth, Massachusetts
934 MA-28, South Yarmouth, MA 02664
(508) 398-6070
http://www.skullislandcapecod.com/Home
Wild Animal Lagoon
Scenic miniature golf course with whimsical displays of wild animals. Experience challenging, fun obstacles as you encounter the elephants, giraffes, lions, gorillas and hippos who make their home in the
Wild Animal Lagoon.
62 MA-28, West Yarmouth, MA 02673
(508) 790-1662
https://www.wildanimallagoon.com
MUSEUMS
Cape Cod Children's Museum
More than 20 interactive play-&-learn exhibits designed for 6-month-olds to 8-year-olds. The opening of the Museum in 1992. Dozens of exhibits focused on science and dramatic play. The staff developed programs and classes for preschool children, and created outreach programs for local schools. The Museum quickly became a treasured part of the community and remains an important resource for area families and visitors.
Whydah Pirate Museum
Geared for ages “6 to 106” the Whydah Pirate Museum is a “must-see” historical attraction on Cape Cod, our exhibition is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the entire family—whether you have just a half hour, or an entire afternoon!
Heritage Museums & Gardens
Heritage Museums & Gardens is the largest public garden in Southern New England. It is located on 100 acres of magnificent grounds and trails on the banks of Shawme Pond in Historic Sandwich.Hidden Hollow, a family-friendly outdoor discovery area, is a place for exploration of the outdoors and our place in it. Heritage offers three gallery buildings housing permanent exhibits of world-class automobiles, a working vintage carousel, American folk art, and featured special exhibitions.
John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum
The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is a historical museum located at 397 Main Street Hyannis, Massachusetts. The museum includes a thematic panorama of photographs, archival films, artifacts, text panels, and oral histories of John F. Kennedy and his family.
Cape Cod Maritime Museum
On a unique and compelling site on Hyannis Harbor, the Cape Cod Maritime Museum serves as a focal point for the Cape and Island’s maritime tradition. Boat building, cultural exhibits, maritime festivals, marine artifacts, shipwrecks, children’s programs and more flow in and out of the museum building on a year-round basis.
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod, was founded in 1954. Our mission is to encourage and advance understanding of our natural environment through discovery and learning. The museum is housed in a 17,000 square foot building on its own 80-acre site and abutted by 320 acres of town- and Conservation-owned land.
Highfield Hall & Gardens
Plan to stay an hour or a full day to view our seasonal art exhibitions, stroll through beautifully restored gardens or take a trail walk in Beebe Woods. Attend a world-class music performance, or just enjoy the serene ambiance of Highfield Hall. You can bring a picnic to enjoy on a bench in the garden or under one of the splendid beech trees on the property.
Beaches
Cape Cod’s beaches are considered among the best in the world! With 559.6 miles of coastline, Cape Cod offers many beautiful sandy beaches for you to enjoy.
Bass River Beach & Boat Launch
Smugglers (Bass River) Beach in South Yarmouth is host to an annual sandcastle contest. Great beach to go to watch the sunrise. So peaceful. And you get to enjoy watching the boats headed out to fish in the morning. It's disabled accessible, has boat trailer parking. Also a boat ramp, fishing deck, large parking area and lifeguards.
Chapin Memorial Beach
Chapin Memorial Beach is located in Dennis Village on Cape Cod Bay. The beach feels like your own private swath of sand. You can walk for hours along the pristine shoreline, the perfect place for those trying to get away from the commotion of everyday life.
Colonial Acres Beach
If you’ve always wanted your own little island, Colonial Acres Beach is the place for you. It’s not exactly a private island, but this large piece of land surrounded by a small creek and the Hyannis Harbor. Wooden bridge, small parking lot, medium beach. This is like a rare beach gem
That only a few who live in the area know about. Their is only about 10 parking spaces so if you come here, early otherwise walk. The beach is skittle rocky but the water is crystal clear. You are in the inlet so the water is calm and refreshing. You walk across a small wooden bridge. The place is very quiet and kept very clean.
Craigville Beach
Craigville beach is not only a great swimming beach, it is also a very nice beach to go for a lengthy walk. Pick a direction left or right. East or west if you prefer and head out. An end to end will give you about five miles. The massive beach area allows for lots of sunbathers and swimmers, and the parking lot holds an equal amount of cars. The long, wide strand of beach is located on Nantucket Sound. It is staffed with lifeguards and equipped with bathrooms and showers.
Grays Beach
Gray's beach is home to the most stunning sunsets on Cape Cod. Stroll out to the end of the 800 foot boardwalk and sit to take in the most breathtaking sunsets you will find on Cape Cod and view of coastal plant and marine life! On the north side of Yarmouth on Cape Cod Bay is only about one and a half miles long and is largely marshland, some free parking and lifeguards.
Kalmus Beach
Kalmus Beach at the end of Ocean Street in Hyannis is considered by some to offer the best windsurfing on the Cape in the spring, summer and fall. The steady breezes, warm waters and consistent waves off Nantucket Sound draw windsurfers from all over. Kalmus is one of the quieter and nicer public beaches on this part of the Cape. Lots of smooth sand and the water has a nice easy drop off so it's a good beach for kids
Keyes Memorial Beach
One of Barnstable’s many beaches along the Hyannis Harbor, Sea Street Beach is surrounded by a park. There are picnic tables and barbecue grills. Has a gorgeous view of the harbor. A snack bar, restrooms and showers are located on small hill overlooking the beach. The setting sun, the sound of the gentle wave, and the emptiness of the sandy beach is very poetic.
Mayflower Beach
Mayflower Beach is a gorgeous beach on Cape Cod Bay that’s great for people of all ages. Children will enjoy the many shallow pools created at low tide, while parents will enjoy the serenity of the a calm beach. Looks like you are in the Caribbean. Low tide is great for little ones - you can walk so far out an explore tidal pools and set up on a sand bar.
Seagull Beach
Seagull beach is beautiful. Has plenty of parking. The biggest beach in West Yarmouth. The beach has restrooms, snack bar, changing area, outside showers and lifeguards.This beach, on Nantucket Sound, is a saltwater beach, picnic area, concrete walk on a seawall.
Veteran's Beach
With a delightful view of Lewis Bay, Veterans Beach on Ocean Street in Hyannis is a popular place where beachgoers enjoy picnics and cookouts shaded by a pine grove. The park area is also the spot of two historical shrines, the John F. Kennedy Memorial and Korean War Memorial.
tours
Cape Cod Potato Chips
The Cape Cod Potato Chip factory is one of the area’s top tourist destinations with over 250,000 visitors annually! From our farmers’ fields, to your table – see how our legendary chips are made!
Cranberry Bog Tours
Leo & Andrea Cakounes operate the largest organic cranberry bog on Cape Cod. Located in Harwich, MA, daily tours of the bog are offered seasonally. Learn about the 12 month operation of a cranberry bog. See the equipment and visit with the farm animals.
John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum
The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is a historical museum located at 397 Main Street Hyannis, Massachusetts. The museum includes a thematic panorama of photographs, archival films, artifacts, text panels, and oral histories of John F. Kennedy and his family.
Pirate Adventures Hyannis
Take your kids on a swashbuckling adventure, they’ll be spinning yarns about for years. With tattoos and sailor vests our crew of determined mates cast off on a childhood fantasy. Children between the ages of 3-10 are the perfect age for this thrillseeking, treasure hunting voyage into Hyannis Harbor. Once aboard the Sea Gypsy every child will be transformed into an official member of the Sea Gypsy Crew.
Whale Watching
Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises
Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises began operating whale watch trips out of Barnstable harbor in 1980, when New England whale watching was in its infancy. As industry leaders we have evolved with the fast paced changes our passengers demand with constant upgrades throughout the years. Locally owned and owner operated we are very proud of the professionals that work for us, our boat and the service we provide.
https://whales.net/
Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch
Adventure, Fun and Science!
A few adventures in life combine adventure, fun and science as does a whale watch in a protected marine habitat. Great activity for families and couples!
Dolphin Fleet departing from Provincetown continuing a legacy of high marine education, research and ship board standards.
https://whalewatch.com/
Kids Stuff
Cape Cod Inflatable Park
Amusement park
Address: 518 Main St, West Yarmouth, MA 02673
Phone: (508) 771-6060
Ryan Family Amusements
Ryan Amusements entertainment centers features candlepin bowling and/or ten pin bowling. All locations have arcades with the latest games. If you can think of the game, we most likely have it. There are video games, skill games, arcade games, great prizes and so much more. You can easily spend hours gaming here, no matter how old you are!
Whydah Pirate Museum
Museum displaying artifacts recovered from an 18th-century vessel used for piracy & the slave trade. Geared for ages “6 to 106” the Whydah Pirate Museum is a “must-see” historical attraction on Cape Cod, our exhibition is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the entire family—whether you have just a half hour, or an entire afternoon!
674 MA-28, West Yarmouth, MA 02673
Cape Cod Rail Trail
The Cape Cod Rail Trail is a 22-mile paved rail trail located on Cape Cod in Massachusetts. The trail route passes through the towns of Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet. It connects to the 6-plus mile Old Colony Rail Trail leading to Chatham and 8 miles of trails within Nickerson State Park.
