Summer is not complete without at least a day trip to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It’s the perfect romantic coastal getaway. With gorgeous coastal homes, the most beautiful hydrangeas, wonderful restaurants, adorable shops, and scenic views, this is a MUST-visit on any eastern coast itinerary.
Getting There: I definitely recommend getting a car! Cape Cod is deceivingly big. With many cute towns across Cape Cod, it takes about 1.5 hours from start to finish without stopping. A car will give you the flexibility to spend time where you want!
Weather: Cape Cod follows typical weather patterns of being warm in the summer and cold with possible snow in the winter. Located on the eastern coast, overcast weather can be expected year-round.
Parking: Many parking lots have free parking; however, some lots (usually near beaches) do require paid parking.
With only a day in Cape Cod, you’ll want to make the most of it! Although there are many wonderful places along Cape Cod, I’ve created an itinerary that includes the best places to visit when time is constrained.
Pro tip: Start your day trip early if possible. Morning traffic can be expected heading towards Cape Cod, especially during weekends and the summer. However, do keep in mind that most places don’t open until late morning.
Explore Chatham:
Chatham is exceptionally beautiful and makes for the perfect summer day trip. Include a visit to Chatham, which is located over halfway along the cape, to fully enjoy your Cape Cod trip.
Things to do:
- Enjoy the cute shops along Main Street
- Walk or drive along Chatham Bars Ave (right off of Main St) to enjoy gorgeous views
- From Chathams Bars Ave walk or drive along Shore Road to see the blooming hydrangeas
- Grab a bite to eat at Chatham Pier Fish Market. This is a great place for seal watching!
- Head south on Shore Road to see beautiful hydrangeas near Chatham Bars Inn. As you continue south on Shore Road you will see the famous “hydrangea house” as well as a beautiful windmill towards the east that could be hard to spot
- Godfrey Windmill
- Visit Chatham Lighthouse and Chatham Lighthouse Beach (incredible place to enjoy the sunrise)
- Enjoy delicious ice cream bars at Buffy’s Ice Cream
Explore Osterville/ Popponesset
- Visit Osterville to explore quaint neighborhoods
- Eat dinner at Raw Bar in Popponesset for wonderful lobster rolls
- Enjoy sunset at South Cape Beach
With just a day to experience Cape Cod, this itinerary will ensure you make the most of your time! It offers a perfect balance of shopping, picturesque locations, delicious food, charming small towns, and a beautiful beach.
Note: If you have more time along the cape I recommend visiting the following towns
1. Provincetown
2. Wellfleet
3. Falmouth
4. Martha’s Vineyard
5. Nantucket
Non Rev Roamer 