If you’re considering a Cape Cod getaway, you’ll find something for everyone in the family to enjoy. You can spend your days strolling along the white sand beaches, getting up close and personal with nature, or doing plenty of souvenir shopping. There’s fresh seafood around every corner, and there are tons of family friendly activities in Cape Cod.
Whether you want to escape the heat of the summer or get out of an afternoon rain shower, one of the best indoor activities in Cape Cod is a museum! There are plenty of incredible museums in Cape Cod that will suit almost every interest, giving everyone in your group a chance to get hands-on while learning about the history and culture of the area. Here are seven of our favorite museums, all conveniently located near our Cape Cod vacation rentals!
Whydah Pirate Museum
The Whydah Pirate Museum has long been a favorite of visitors and locals alike. Come check out this one-of-a-kind exhibit to learn the untold story of the Whydah on its journey from slave ship to the pirate ship. You’ll get to experience what life was really like aboard the ship and learn about the people on board. The museum often has free classes and events for an even more personalized experience.
The Whydah Pirate Museum is located at 674 MA-28 in West Yarmouth. Museum hours vary by season, so be sure to visit their website for hours during your stay. Adult tickets cost $18.95 per person, while children ages 5 to 17 cost $14.95 each. Children 4 and under are free.
Chatham Marconi Maritime Center
If you’re interested in learning about Cape Cod’s blend of technology and maritime history, be sure to visit the Chatham Marconi Maritime Center. You’ll be able to see exhibits like RCA’s 20th-century ship-to-shore station WCC, Guglielmo Marconi’s 1914 receiving station, and a Secret World War II U.S. Navy post that eavesdropped on U-boats. At this museum, the tagline says it all: “Where history and technology come to life.”
The Chatham Marconi Maritime Museum is located at 831 Orleans Road in North Chatham. Be sure to visit their website for exact hours when they reopen in the spring. Adult admission costs just $10, and children 13 to 21 cost $5. Children 12 and under get in for free.
Cahoon Museum of American Art
Looking for a little culture in your Cape Cod vacation? Stop by The Cahoon Museum of American Art. You’ll find an impressive collection of exhibits from American artists that truly encapsulate the unique art style of each painter. Their exhibits are constantly rotating, so you’re sure to find something new every time you visit. You can also take part in various programs and events throughout the year featuring the artisans on display.
The Cahoon Museum of American Art is located at 4676 Falmouth Road in Cotuit. They are open seasonally from March 15th through December 22nd. General admission costs $10, and children under 12 get in for free.
Cape Cod Maritime Museum
To get a new look at the maritime history of Cape Cod, the Cape Cod Maritime Museum is the perfect stop. The artifacts, models, and fine art on display encapsulate the nautical history of some of the most important events and people of the area. Be sure to also visit the Cook Boat Shop and the historic Boat Barn to round out your experience.
The Cape Cod Maritime Museum is located at 135 South Street in Hyannis. During the summer from June through September, they are open daily from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., and during the offseason of October through May, they’re open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Sundays from noon until 4 p.m. Adult admission is $10, children 6 through 17 cost $8, and children 5 and under are free.
John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum
Learn about one of the most respected American presidents at the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum. You’ll get to experience interactive exhibits and educational materials that give you a closer look into the life of JFK. The museum frequently holds lectures, book signings, and special rotating exhibits about the Kennedy family and their legacy.
The John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum is located at 397 Main Street in Hyannis. Their hours vary by season, so visit their website to learn about the hours during your stay. Tickets cost $13 for adults, $7 for children ages 6 to 17, and admission is free for children 5 and under.
Cape Cod Museum of Art
Another popular art museum in the area is the Cape Cod Museum of Art, a staple of the area since 1981. By strolling through the permanent collection and the rotating exhibits, you’ll get a beautiful and unique picture of the distinctive artistic identity of the Cape. You can learn more about the culture and history of the region through the individual perspectives of local artists, and for a more hands-on experience, classes and special events take place throughout the year.
The Cape Cod Museum of Art is located at 60 Hope Lane in Dennis. Winter hours from December 2nd through April 1st are Thursday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. Adult admission is $10, children 13 through 18 cost $7, and children 12 and under are free.
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
If you’re looking to get up-close and personal with nature, take some time to stop by the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. You’ll get to learn about the various species that call Cape Cod home, like numerous species of birds and even the humpback whale! This is a great family-friendly attraction to get everyone involved, and once you visit, it won’t be hard to see why this museum was voted the Best Lower Cape Museum for 2019!
The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History is located at 869 Main Street in Brewster. Please visit their website to learn about seasonal hours. Adult admission costs $15, children ages 3 through 12 cost $6, and children 2 and under are free.
With so many fun museums to discover, you can find a new one for every day of your stay! Once you’re done, return to your Cape Cod vacation rental to freshen up for dinner or spend quality time with your family. Contact us today for more information on our accommodations!
