Provincetown is a small seaside town, right at the northern tip of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It has long been known as an LGBT-friendly town and a place for artists and more eccentric personalities. But Provincetown is also a place of great restaurants and nightclubs, fascinating galleries, and some iconic landmarks like the Pilgrim Monument, Race Point Beach and Lighthouse, and many more. The list of things to do here is quite extensive and includes anything from watersports like sailing and swimming to whale watching, biking, and hiking. Time can also be spent indoors, either catching live shows, savouring the tastiest sweets, or admiring art. Read on as we go into more detail about the best things to do in Provincetown, Massachusetts.
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1. Enjoy shopping at Commercial Street
The lively and colorful Commercial Street in Provincetown is always buzzing with locals and travelers looking for the best boutiques to shop. The street is sprinkled with jewelry and clothing stores, antique shops, but also art galleries, bars, restaurants, bakeries, salons, and gift shops. It’s a great place to look for some last-minute souvenirs to take home, have a stroll and grab a bite to eat, or just take a seat at one of the restaurants with outdoor seating and look at people passing by, while sipping a tasty cocktail and taking in the vibe of the city.
Commercial Street
Address: Downtown Center, Provincetown, MA
2. Go swimming at Herring Cove Beach
If you’re looking for relaxation, spending a day in the sun, then Herring Cove Beach is for you. The beach here is beautiful and well-maintained, with lots of amenities and priceless views. From the beach, people also have access to the bike trails in the Cape Cod National Seashore, so outdoor enthusiasts can always go for a run or go biking. Herring Cove Beach usually attracts a younger crowd than the other beaches in Provincetown, so spending a day here will be a lot of fun.
Herring Cove Beach
Address: Province Lands Rd, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Herring Cove Beach
3. Check out interesting exhibits at the Provincetown Art Association and Museum
Located on Commercial Street, the Provincetown Art Association and Museum is the most visited art museum in Cape Cod. The museum was established in 1914 and is a nationally recognized culture institution that hosts a variety of permanent and ever-changing collections, workshops, and events. Some of the artists that have called Provincetown Art Association and Museum home at some moment in time include Charles Webster Hawthorne, the author of His First Voyage painting, Blanche Lazzell, and Edward Hopper.
Provincetown Art Association and Museum
Address: 460 Commercial St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Provincetown Art Association and Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 8pm; Fri: 11am - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 5pm
Price: 12 USD
4. Take a leisurely stroll along the Cape Cod Provincelands Trail
Cape Cod Provincelands Trail is a biker’s dream, not far from the buzz of the city. The scenic trail is a hilly loop that begins at the top of the hill and will take you through dunes, a beach forest, tunnels, cliffs, and sharp turns. The beautiful and diverse landscape you’ll get to see along the way is unquestionably worth the effort; it boasts beaches, a marshland, ponds, and lush vegetation. It’s a fabulous trail if you’re looking for a challenging workout, but you can also take it slow, stop for a picnic, and just have a leisurely walk.
Cape Cod Provincelands Trail
Address: Route 6 north toward Provincetown, Provincetown, MA
5. Climb the Pilgrim Monument
Built more than a century ago, the Pilgrim Monument was built to commemorate the first pilgrim landing in the region. Today, it stands tall, offering its visitors sweeping panoramic views of Provincetown and the ocean, but also towering over the town and being easily visible from a distance. Its impressive height might discourage you, but the climb uses ramps, so it won’t be as hard as climbing an endless flight of stairs. The admission ticket includes the climb to the top but also access to the museum that tells the history of Provincetown.
Pilgrim Monument
Address: 1 High Pole Hill Rd, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Pilgrim Monument
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 14 USD
6. Spot over 250 bird species at Beech Forest
Beech Forest is Provincetown’s bird paradise, as it is home to a wide variety of bird species that create a marvelous spectacle, especially in spring and fall. This natural oasis boasts picturesque scenery and features a shallow pond, bike trails, and picnic areas. Beech Forest can be an excellent choice if you’re looking to spend time outdoors away from the hustle and bustle of the beach and relax in a somewhat secluded setting.
Beech Forest
Address: Beech Forest Trail, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Beech Forest
7. Hit the beach at Cape Cod National Seashore
Cape Cod National Seashore is a very well preserved national park. Home to pristine nature and spectacular sights, it includes ponds, woods, and an Atlantic coastal beach. People come here for all kinds of outdoor activities, both on water and on solid ground. Some of the top favorite things to do here include canoeing, snorkeling, and hiking, but also fishing and even yoga. The pristine sandy beach is so vast that you can easily find a more secluded spot to enjoy the sun and wave sounds without others disturbing you.
Cape Cod National Seashore
Address: 99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667
Website: Cape Cod National Seashore
Opening hours: 9am - 4:30pm (daily)
8. Explore the art shacks and museums at MacMillan Pier
MacMillan Pier gets busy during the day, as it is Provincetown’s principal transportation hub, where ferries from Boston and other parts of the US stop, and many tours and trips depart from. However, it’s a great place to check out, as it is much more than just a transition point, but a great spot for admiring boats, exploring art shacks, and visiting museums. Whalers Wharf, a historic pedestrian area that’s well-known for its shopping options, is nearby.
MacMillan Pier
Address: 24 MacMillan Pier, Provincetown, MA, 02657
9. Spend the night in Race Point Lighthouse Keeper's House
Spending a night (or two) in the Race Point Lighthouse Keeper’s House could be a pretty cool experience. The Keeper’s House dates back to the 1950s and has been completely restored, at the same time maintaining its historic feel. Located right next to the Lighthouse, in a secluded setting, the house has three bedrooms upstairs, all available for rent, together or separate. Downstairs there is a fourth bedroom where the Keeper family stays, but all common areas are available, including the half bathroom downstairs and the full bathroom upstairs. Make sure to bring your linens, towels, food, and drinks.
Race Point Lighthouse Keeper's House
Address: Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Race Point Lighthouse Keeper’s House
10. Take a sunset tour with Art's Dune Tours
Sunsets are one of the most epic times of the day in Cape Cod. Due to its coastal setting, Provincetown offers striking color and light displays at sunset. The tour will take you to the beach to watch the sunset over the water; beach chairs are included. You will get to listen to stories about Cape Cod’s history and what makes this place unique but also learn about ecology and landscape evolution. You can opt for one of three sunset tours, depending on whether you also want only dinner or dinner and a bonfire.
Art's Dune Tours
Address: 4 Standish St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Art’s Dune Tours
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 49 USD onwards
11. Pay a visit to the Old Harbor Life-Saving Station Museum
Take a walk down history lane and head over to the Old Harbor Life-Saving Station. Dating back to 1897, it is part maritime rescue station part museum, and it is located at Race Point Beach in Provincetown. The house sits in a secluded location, but it is on the beach, so you can visit it on one of the days you spend sunbathing in the sand. It’s an interesting experience that will teach you more about Cape Cod’s history, people in the area, and more.
Old Harbor Life-Saving Station Museum
Address: Provincetown, MA 02657
12. Catch a play or dance performance at the Provincetown Theater
Provincetown is a coastal town, after all, so you might as well enjoy your vacation and have some fun. Save an evening for a show or play at the Provincetown Theater. It’s open year-round and hosts a variety of plays, dances, musicals, and readings, so you will have plenty of options to choose from. They always try to have a mixed schedule of classic and modern productions to cater to a broader audience.
Provincetown Theater
Address: 238 Bradford St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Provincetown Theater
13. Sail to Long Point with Dog Gone Sailing Charters
Spend a sunny day on the water, and sail to Long Point, the extreme tip of Cape Cod, where the original Provincetown settlement was. You can choose between a full-day or a half-day tour, but either way, you’ll have time to sunbathe, walk on stunning pristine beaches, and even enjoy a picnic in the sounds of birds chirping. Make sure you look for the Long Point Light, which dates back to 1827. While on the boat, keep your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins, you never know what you may see on the water. You can even enjoy a good swim in the back of the boat, before stepping foot on the shore.
Dog Gone Sailing Charters
Address: 10 MacMillan Pier, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Dog Gone Sailing Charters
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
14. Calm your sweet tooth at Cabot's Candy Factory
When it comes to calming your sweet tooth and savoring different tasty treats, Cabot’s Candy is where you want to go. With a history of almost a century, Cabot’s Candy started in 1927, when they used to sell saltwater taffy at local fairs. Since their taffies were such a hit, they opened a store and expanded their product range to include flavored popcorn, fudge, and baked goods too. Check out their Beer Brittle, boxes of assorted salt water taffy, and chocolate peanut butter fudge, and you’ll come back for more.
Cabot's Candy Factory
Address: 276 Commercial St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Cabot’s Candy Factory
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 11pm
15. Have a close encounter with whales with SeaSalt Charters
One of the most extraordinary experiences you can have in Provincetown is a face-to-face encounter with a whale. Book your shared or private charter with SeaSalt Charters, and get ready to explore the whales’ feeding and nursing grounds, as well as see them from up close. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and, of course, your camera. Bottled water and a cooler of ice are included in the ticket price.
SeaSalt Charters
Address: 19 Ryder St E, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: SeaSalt Charters
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 150 USD
16. Explore the amazing collection at Adam Peck Gallery
Back to art exploring, since it’s a must while in Cape Cod – check out the Adam Peck Gallery in the west part of Provincetown, on the famous Commercial Street, and take a sneak peek into Adam Peck’s eight years’ work. You’ll also get to see the contemporary exhibitions of Robert Goldstrom, Kathy Cotter, and Juan Carlos Castaneda, and their modern take on art. Stop for a coffee break or enjoy a delicious meal on Commercial Street while you’re there, or just go for a stroll on Provincetown’s most lively street.
Adam Peck Gallery
Address: 142 Commercial St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Adam Peck Gallery
17. Savor homemade desserts at Lewis Brothers Homemade Ice Cream
Those who claim the Lewis Brothers ice cream is the best in Provincetown are undoubtedly not few. Located on Commercial Street, the family-owned business has been making delicious homemade ice cream since 1997. Their list of flavors is quite extensive, from the classic vanilla or chocolate to coffee, maple walnut, grape nut, and many more. Besides the flavors they serve daily, they also create premium flavors that change constantly. Some of the premium flavors include cake batter, almond joy, and ginger. They also serve sorbets and sugar-free ice cream, sundaes, and healthy treats.
Lewis Brothers Homemade Ice Cream
Address: 310 Commercial St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Lewis Brothers Homemade Ice Cream
Opening hours: 9am - 12pm (daily)
18. Check out beautiful jewelry and art at Impulse Art Gallery
While walking around Commercial Street, take a peek inside Impulse Art Gallery. Here you’ll find a variety of handmade works from talented and established as well as up-and-coming artists. The gallery has been featuring everything from paintings and ceramics to jewelry and glass for over 30 years. They also have a variety of kaleidoscopes on display, as well as marbles and Judaica.
Impulse Art Gallery
Address: 188 Commercial St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Impulse Art Gallery
19. Explore the city on a rented bike from Ptown Bikes
Whether you’re looking to explore the trails around Provincetown, or you want to enjoy sightseeing in a relaxed way, with the wind in your hair, rent a bike from Ptown Bikes, and you’re good to go. Their shop has a broad range of top-quality products, at quite reasonable prices. They have hybrid bikes with 24 speeds, which work best for pavement riding, or mountain bikes with wider grippy tires, perfect for bike trails. All bikes here can be rented for up to 2 hours for short rides, basic, or long rides, but also for up to 24 hours, or on a weekly or monthly basis.
Ptown Bikes
Address: 42 Bradford St #1338, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Ptown Bikes
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD onwards
20. Take your dog for a play date at Pilgrim Bark Park
If you love traveling with your furry companion, Provincetown will be a place for both of you to enjoy. Head over to Pilgrim Bark Park, a place that spreads over an acre (almost a half hectare) where dogs can run free and enjoy their best life, off the leash. The park features a general section for dogs of all sizes, and one exclusively for small dogs of less than 25 pounds (11 kilograms). The park is clean and safe, so both you and your dog will have a blast here.
Pilgrim Bark Park
Address: 227 US-6, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Pilgrim Bark Park
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
21. Turn on your curiosity at Friday Night Gallery Stroll
If you’re an art aficionado or you’re curious to experience a different way of viewing art, join the Friday Night Gallery Stroll. You’ll get to take your time wandering through Provincetown, a place well-known for its art diversity, and many artists expressing their talents in unique ways. After all, the town has been an artist colony for over a century, so it’s worth exploring in peace. Add the Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM), the Fine Arts Work Center, and The Captain’s Daughters on your list.
Friday Night Gallery Stroll
Website: Friday Night Gallery Stroll
22. Listen to live music at Bubalas by the Bay
The artistic expression comes in many shapes and forms in Provincetown, and one way of getting to know and understanding the town better is through its artists. Stop by at Bubalas By the Bay on Commercial Street, enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner, and stay for one of their live music shows. They serve soups, hot and cold starters, salads, and a variety of vegetarian options, as well as a list of wines and cocktails.
Bubalas by the Bay
Address: 183 Commercial St # 185, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Bubalas by the Bay
Opening hours: 11am - 1pm (daily)
23. Buy local products at East End Market
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
There’s something pretty cool about exploring local markets, from the fresh, delicious produce to the smells, and just getting to know locals. East End Market is not just a market, but also a culinary food hub inspired by the local farmers in Central Florida. Come here to learn more about the area’s food culture, engage with community members, and have a taste of their locally sourced fruit and veggies, baked goods, and other delicacies available.
East End Market
Address: 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
Website: East End Market
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 8am - 7pm; Fri - Sat: 8am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm
24. Catch an indie movie at Waters Edge Cinema
When the weather outside is not so great, or you’re looking to spend a chilled out, relaxed evening, catching a movie at Waters Edge Cinema on Commercial Street. The non-profit arthouse cinema is located on the mezzanine between the second and third floor of Whalers Wharf, and it is open year-round. You’ll always have what to choose from, as they play anything from documentaries and indie movies to the most recent blockbusters.
Waters Edge Cinema
Address: 237 Commercial St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Waters Edge Cinema
25. Pamper your body at Namaste Spa
Forget about anything around you and take a few hours for yourself, to relax and refresh, at the Namaste Spa in Provincetown; it is considered the best spa facility in town for a reason. Open year-round, they offer a variety of massages and body treatments, for both men and women. There is a steam room, a hot tub, and two Finnish Saunas on-site, as well as an outdoor sunbathing area. Choose between a deep tissue or a Namaste fusion massage, or try a hot stone massage.
Namaste Spa
Address: 14 Johnson St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: Namaste Spa
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
26. Browse through books at The Provincetown Bookshop
Another hidden gem on Commercial Street is the Provincetown Bookshop. Dating back to 1932, when it first opened its doors, the bookstore has passed the test of time, and not only lasted for so long, but thrived. Get lost between hundreds of book from your favorite authors, or ask the kind and professional staff for help; they’ll be happy to assist and advise you.
The Provincetown Bookshop
Address: 246 Commercial St, Provincetown, MA 02657
Website: The Provincetown Bookshop
27. Board the Provincetown Ferry at Long Wharf
It would be a shame to go to Provincetown and not go on the water. Board the Provincetown Ferry at Long Wharf, and enjoy a 90-minute journey on a catamaran. You’ll get to travel in style, on a fast and luxurious ferry with full-service concierge desk, a bar, and satellite television. The best part, however, is the spectacular landscape you get to see along the way like Boston’s skyline and Boston Harbor Islands. Food and drinks are available for purchase, but there are no gratuities offered on the trip.
Discover the many sides of Provincetown, Massachusetts
A town clearly under the spell of art and culture, Provincetown is a place with so much to offer. Explore its artistic side in all its glory through its art galleries, theater plays, and live music, wander the pristine beaches, and go whale watching. There’s so much to see and experience here, so check out our list of the best things to do in Provincetown, Massachusets, and start planning your trip.
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