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Things To See In Cape Cod In Winter

It’s winter.

The magic of the season is in full swing on Cape Cod.

Snow birds who can’t make the trek to warmer climates often like to vacation in New England. After all, there are so many things to do on Cape Cod in the winter.

Indoor and outdoor activities abound – and they’re sure to please everyone in the family.

Head To The Vineyard!

Hop on a Steamship Authority ferry and ride out to Martha’s Vineyard.

The island is bustling with activity, even in the dead of winter. Be sure to make a stop in Edgartown, a town loaded with history and charm.

Edgartown was once one of the nation’s primary whaling ports. Sea captains made Edgartown their home, building opulent mansions that now line Water Street. These homes are quite impressive – and quite charming in the winter. The snow-lined streets remind you of what England may have looked like more than hundred years ago.

Stunning Nantucket

Though quiet, Nantucket is also a quaint winter destination.

Since the beach is out of the question, visitors usually stop by The Nantucket Historical Association’s Whaling Musuem. It’s a must-see for any history buff. The museum features a restored 1847 candle factory, and a 46-foot skeleton of a sperm whale that washed ashore on New Year’s Day in 1998. It’s really quite a sight.

Cape Cod Antiques

If you’re not up for a ferry ride to one of the Cape Cod islands, antique shopping is one of the best things to do on Cape Cod in the winter.

From Bourne to Provincetown, there’s an antique shop sure to suit your every want and desire.

One of our favorites is the Antiques Center of Cape Cod.

Located on route 6A in Dennis, the Center has been in operation for more than 16 years. Its four huge buildings house dealers who sell books, art, glassware, furniture, jewelry, pottery, silver, collectibles and many other antique items.

Dealers offer a constant supply of both domestic items, and many fine items imported from Europe and many other exciting and exotic parts of the world. No matter what type of piece you are looking for, there is a good chance you’ll find it at the Antiques Center.

Deep Discounts

Another bonus of  Cape Cod winter vacations?

Deep discounts.

You’ll find affordable Cape Cod hotels up and down the Cape, offering some of their lowest rates all year.

You really can’t run out of things to do on Cape Cod in the winter.

And the best part?

No crowds. You’ll have the whole place to yourself.

Now, who can beat that?

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Cape Cod Things To Do

Okay, admittedly the winter may not the best time of year to travel, but there is so much to do to do – especially on Cape Cod. From the budget conscious to the extravagant, there is a little something for everyone – and every family.

Winter on the Cape also means you’ll find some great deals. B&B’s and hotels, like the Bayside Resort, offers some wonderful bargain vacation packages that cater to families or to couples who just want to relax.

Experiencing Cape Cod in the winter is really quite extraordinary. With so much to do and see, it was really hard to whittle this list down to a select few. But when you come, you’ll know instantly that this region has so much to offer families and adventurers alike.

Come see what we’re about, and enjoy some of these year-round activities:

Nature

The Cape has many beautiful parks, including the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Reserve and the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. The quintessential Cape Cod experience may be a walk along the Cape Cod National Seashore, 40 stunning miles of beach and an incredible experience in any season.

Hiking

You can also explore the Cape’s trails, such as the Cape Cod Rail Trail, the Provincetown Bike Trails and the trail along the Cape Cod Canal

Museums and Galleries

The Cape Museum of Fine Arts in Dennis and the Provincetown Art Association and Museum feature the work of local artists from the past and present. Galleries are abundant in Provincetown and Wellfleet. A year-round performing arts schedule includes the Cape Symphony Orchestra in the winter.

Many museums memorialize Cape Cod’s history. The Aptucxet Trading Post Museum is located on the site where Europeans first conducted trade on the Cape. The Mayflower II, a replica of the Pilgrim’s famous vessel, and Plimoth Plantation, a surprisingly scholarly recreation of their settlement, are in nearby Plymouth.

The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum features photos of the Kennedy clan. The Swift-Daley House and Tool Museum is one of several museums in preserved homes, offering a slice of life in the 17th, 18th and 19th Centuries.

Children’s Activities

The Cape Cod Children’s Museum in Mashpee is an obvious choice for indoor entertainment, although it is predictably packed on a rainy day. Kids (and adults who are not too squeamish) will love the “touch tank” at the National Marine Fisheries Service Aquarium in Woods Hole. Cineplexes are located throughout the Cape, including at the Cape Cod Mall in Hyannis.

Shopping

As you cross the Sagamore Bridge onto Cape Cod, you are flanked by the Cape Cod Outlet Mall on your right and the discount extravaganza, The Christmas Tree Shop, on your left. This entrance sets the tone for plentiful bargain shopping, as evidenced by Cuffy’s Factory Store, the Antiques Centerand many shops along Route 28 in the Mid Cape.  Stores selling antiques and collectibles can be found in every town.

Cape Cod Winter Vacation Packages

The whole family can enjoy Cape Cod In Winter.  And when it comes to dollars and cents, Cape Cod hotels offer the biggest hotel package savings across the board.

Come see why Cape Cod is a world-class winter vacation destination.

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Source: NY Times

Things To Do Cape Cod Winter Vacation

Cape Cod has always been considered a premiere vacation destination in the summer. But let’s not forget what the region has to offer in the winter.

Cape Cod in the winter is quiet, tranquil, serene and – brilliantly beautiful.

Laura Holson, a writer for the New York Times, wrote this about Cape Cod in winter:

To enjoy Cape Cod in winter, you must close your eyes and listen.

There is a symphony of cold in sound: A lone seagull dives for an errant fish offshore, a far-off splash echoing across the emptiness of gray and blue. Frozen ice and sand crackle underfoot as a golden retriever bounds along the beach. The gentle whistle of icy breath, the muffled scratch of a coat collar pulled tight around the neck.

But the real allure of a winter day at this warm-weather getaway is what you don’t see when your eyes are open. Absent are the lines of cars snaking through jammed parking lots of summer or the dance of sunburned beach goers who slap and yell at stinging waves. The Cape in winter is like a carnival park past its prime, empty but approachable because it is so familiar.

And along the shore, there is always the promise of spring, when small waves frozen in sand will retreat with the thaw and slip back to sea, waiting to embrace the crowds when they arrive once again.

That, at least, is what crossed my mind as I stood one crisp afternoon in January on Coast Guard Beach, 15 miles north of Chatham, Mass., the town situated at the Cape’s elbow. I was seeking a tonic for my post-New Year’s blues. As I wound my scarf tighter around my neck to ward off the bitter cold, I noticed a single fishing boat bobbing in the surf near shore. A rugged fisherman onboard waved in my direction, then hauled up a heavy metal cage from the water, hand over gloved fist.

It was easy to imagine what the Lower, or Outer, Cape (actually the easternmost part, stretching north from the elbow to Provincetown) might have looked like in the early 1700s, when settlers plucked abundant mackerel and cod from the waters along the northeastern shore. Nearly a century later, the author John Hayward described the area in The New England Gazetteer as a place “noted for its fine sailors and men of superior nautical talents.” But it was a place of hardship too, he wrote, where widows “had lost their husbands by the dangers of the sea.”

These days, the biggest hardship in winter is finding that a favorite fried clam shack is closed for the season. But in the off-season, the unfettered charm of the area’s small shore towns is easier to explore.

Beaches like Lighthouse Beach in Chatham are empty, their unspoiled vistas rimmed in blue and crystallized white froth. Empty houses line the gullies around Pleasant Bay, where lonely chunks of frozen ice bunch along the water’s edge, ushered together by the drifting tide.

Cape Cod Winter Vacation Packages

Let Holson’s wonderful writing about Cape Cod In Winter inspire you to visit the region while the weather is brisk and the setting, quiet.

And when it comes to dollars and cents, Cape Cod hotels offer the biggest hotel package savings across the board.

Come see why Cape Cod is a world-class destination – even in winter.

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Things To Do Cape Cod Winter

When the weather isn’t quite cold enough to enjoy outdoor skating, locals and Cape Cod vacationers like to hit the indoor rinks.

Ice skating on Cape Cod – indoors or out – is the quintessential winter activity enjoyed here in New England. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the cold and get some exercise with friends or family.

Did you know that ice skating burns more than 250 calories an hour?

And not only that, it’s fun for everyone – despite a few bumps and bruises.

Cape Cod Ice Skating Rinks

Cape Cod is full of ice skating rinks – and all of them cater to world-class skaters and hockey players, to beginner tots. And the best part? No matter how good you are – you can sign up for lessons and learn from the pros!

Here is a list of Cape Cod ice skating rinks that are suitable for you or any member of your family.

• Charles Moore Arena – Orleans MA
• Falmouth Ice Arena – Falmouth MA
• John Gallo Ice Arena – Bourne MA
• Martha’s Vineyard Arena - Martha’s Vineyard
• Tony Kent Arena – Dennis MA

All of the Cape Cod Ice Skating Rinks offer “free skate” – which is the best time for visiting families who just want to get out there, wobble around and have some fun.

Winter In Cape Cod

If you’ve never experienced a New England winter, then come to Cape Cod where the weather is a bit gentler.  And, you’ll also get to experience some of the best winter activities on Cape Cod, including ice skating.

Come for a day – or a whole weekend and stay at one of the many famous Cape Cod resorts- many of which are offering affordable Hotel Packages right now!

Book. Stay. Play!

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Things To Do Cape Cod New Years Eve

Thinking about heading to Cape Cod for New Year’s Eve?

Want to do something fun, but not tremendously raucous or overwhelming?

Moby Dick’s Pub – a traditional New England Pub – is the place to be in West Yarmouth MA.

New England Style New Years Eve Party!

Located at Bayside Resort Hotel, Moby Dick’s is not your typical hotel bar. Think: Boston-style tavern.

Step inside and you’ll find the walls papered with REAL dollar bills!

Legend has it that centuries ago fisherman would tack up a dollar before their trip at sea to ensure they would have money for a drink when they returned.

The tradition is kept alive today – although now it’s more of a novelty than a “savings account.” The pub’s bartenders will induct you into the Ceiling Hall of Fame if you sign a dollar bill. Patrons also like to share some words of wisdom on their bill for future patrons.

The pub is open daily – and this year they’ll be hosting a special New Years Eve Pre-Party with a champagne toast and appetizers.

Let The Good Times Roll On Cape Cod

Whether you choose to come celebrate New Years on Cape Cod – or just want to get away for a long weekend – be sure to stop in for a drink – or two – at Moby Dick’s at one of the most popular Cape Cod resorts in region.

Come on out and have some fun this New Years. Ring in 2012 in style!

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Things To Do Cape Cod New Years Eve

Dying to get out and do something fun for New Years to ring in 2012? Head to one of the most exciting winter spots in New England: Cape Cod!

There is some exciting stuff happening for New Years Eve in West Yarmouth MA – and, coincidentally, it’s all happening at Bayside Resort, one of the premiere Cape Cod Resorts in the region! They’ll be hosting their annual New Years Eve Extravaganza.

Ring in 2012 with family, friends, great food, awesome entertainment – and a toast at midnight – all for one unbelievable package rate!

Reasons To Ring In The New Year On Cape Cod

The perks and amenities at Bayside Resort Hotel are enough to please even the pickiest New Years reveler.

Just take a look at what you get with your New Years hotel package:

• Champagne and party favors delivered to your room.
• Elegant full-course dinner and dessert for two.
• Live entertainment and dancing.
• Midnight champagne toast.
• Access to a tropical warm indoor pool.
• A special New Year’s Day breakfast with Bloody Mary’s and mimosas.

Celebrate The New Year on Cape Cod

If a long-distance New Years vacation is just not in the budget, consider hopping in the car and heading to Cape Cod.

Bayside Resort Hotel is one of the only four-star Cape Cod resorts on offering an unbelievable accommodations and an affordable Cape Cod New Years Eve Package. This is your opportunity to celebrate in style – without breaking the bank.

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Things To Do Cape Cod Christmas

When the holidays roll around, there are plenty of things to do and see for locals and visitors alike. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything going on around the Cape that isn’t holiday-related.

The towns in this region are very proud to present many fun family-friend events – like caroling, Christmas strolls, and visits with Santa.

If you’re curious about what’s happening near you, here’s a full lineup of holiday Cape Cod activities.

1. Oysterville Christmas Stroll

What: Join friends and family for fun, music, carriage rides, a trolley and Santa.

When/Where: December 9, 9:30am to 8:30 pm, Main Street, Osterville

Price: Free

2. West Barnstable Fire Department Christmas with Santa

What:  Bring the kids to have pancakes, bacon or sausage, and juice with Santa!  Admission price includes a free photo with Santa, too!

When/Where: Wednesday, December 11^th, 9 am / West Barnstable Fire Department, 2160 Meetinghouse Way, West Barnstable

Price: $8 adults; $5 kids 10 and under

3. Barnstable Christmas Stroll

What:Come see the sights and lights and make sure to stay for Santa, who will be arriving by fire truck at the Barnstable Comedy Club.

When/Where: December 7th, from 6pm-8pm / Main Street, Barnstable

Price: Free

4. Enchanted Village

What: The Cape Cod Enchanted Village features a magnificent display of more than 100,000 lights, a Santa’s Village, animated reindeer stall, snowmen and a bonfire (weather permitting). every night through January 2, 2011.

When/Where: Carolers and Santa on weekends December 2-December 18; Lights on display until January 2nd / at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa.  Please bring a gift card or a new, unwrapped teen gift to place under the 16 foot “Giving Tree.”

Price: Free

5. Holiday Pops

What: Get in the spirit with the charming melodies of a White Christmas and Christmas Eve on Cape Cod.  Tripping Lily band, the adorable Eddy Elementary School Chorus and the beloved Chatham Chorale add a cultural richness to the evening with songs likeMele Kalikimaka, African Noel and Fum, Fum, Fum. 

When/Where: December 2: 4pm and 8pm shows are available; December 3: 8pm show is available / The Barnstable Performing Arts Center at Barnstable High School.  Shows sell out fast!

Price: Various: $66, $55, $45, $38, $28 depending on seat

Cape Cod Christmas Vacations

Consider spending the holiday season on Cape Cod – and explore all that the region has to offer during this special time of year.

Book your stay at one of the award-winning Cape Cod Resorts, then break out the warm clothes and get into the Christmas spirit here on the coast of New England.

Act fast! Rooms are booking up!

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Things To Do Cape Cod Christmas

Imagine spending an enchanting holiday weekend on Cape Cod complete with gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, music, dance, and a good old fashion sleigh ride.

Now picture your kids sitting down with Father Christmas himself, and having a chat with Santa Claus.

These are the type magical memories that can be made at Christmas by Candlelight in Old Sturbridge Village Cape Cod.

Holiday Tradition On Cape Cod

While Cape Cod is filled with many holiday activities at Christmastime, no other event is quite like Old Sturbridge’s Christmas by Candlelight.

Each weekend in December, Old Sturbridge Village presents a fun-filled lineup of holiday highlights, including:

- Musical performances
- Sleigh rides (weather permitting)
- Gingerbread House Contest – winners determined by your votes
- Holiday traditions explained – roasting chestnuts, yule logs, fruitcake
- Holiday readings
- Victorian carolers
- Make your own Christmas cards and ornaments
- Visit Father Christmas and Santa Claus
- Punch & Judy Puppet Show
- Christmas carol sing-a-longs
- Holiday magic shows

You can even grab a scrumptious holiday dinner in Old Sturbridge Village at the Oliver Wight Tavern. But don’t forget to call head for reservations. Tables book up fast in December!

Tickets for Christmas by Candlelight in Old Sturbridge Village run between $12-15 depending on your membership and the day you attend.

Cape Cod Christmas Vacations

Consider spending the holiday season on Cape Cod – and explore all that the region has to offer during this special time of year.

Book your stay at one of the award-winning Cape Cod Hotels, and get into the Christmas spirit in Old Sturbridge Village.

Places To Play Golf On Cape Cod In Winter

If you ever thought winter was the time to put up the golf clubs, think again.

Winter golf on Cape Cod is in full swing. That’s right, golfers are out there braving the cold temperatures, wind, rain, a little snow and sleet all for their love of the game.

And, you know what?

Cape Cod winter golf IS enjoyable – if you know when and where to play.

Winter Golf Course Beauty

We suggest heading to Falmouth, where the Falmouth Country Club offers golfers of all calibers beautiful year-round golf course facilities.

The challenging 27-hole year-round public course is not far from beaches, cranberry bogs and all that is Cape Cod. Ride or walk the championship 18 hole, par 72 course – or enjoy our separate 9 hole par 37 course.

Enjoy flat terrain, clear fairways and immaculate greens. Also, look for sprays of beach grass garnishing the bunkers at the 12th hole, and a majestic pair of ospreys patrolling the water from their nest at the 10th hole.

Year round golf at Falmouth Country Club means you can come play golf on Cape Cod anytime.

Cape Cod Golf Vacations In Winter

Cape Cod golf courses are some of the best in New England – even in the winter. Come play and stay at one of the word-famous Cape Cod resorts and take advantage of some fantastic Cape Cod golf package deals.

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Things To Do On Cape Cod Christmas

That special holiday feel is in the air over here on Cape Cod, and that means there are plenty of fun Christmas activities all over the area that people are eager to see.

Many Cape Cod towns celebrate the coming of Christmas with holiday strolls, caroling, festive harbor lights, and crat fairs. These activities bring residents and visitors together to celebrate the spirit of the season.

Here are some of the some of various things to do on Cape Cod in December:

Join the Chatham-By-The-Sea celebration starting in mid-November and stretching through December. There are arts and crafts fairs, candy cane making, holiday plays, and a dinner dance at the Chatham Bars Inn. The Chatham celebration all culminates in a First Night Celebration on New Year’s Eve.

In Sandwich, the Heritage Museum and Gardens are decked out with a million lights on over 100 acres of gardens from November 24th through the 31st. They also have indoor Victorian displays, a holiday boutique, holiday treats and free rides on an antique carousel, along with other special programs.

The holiday musical, Madeline’s Christmas, is being performed at the Harwich Junior Theater from December 2nd to the 31st.

And in Brewster, the annual “Brewster for the Holidays” weekend kicks of December 2nd with a spectacular tree lighting ceremony, holiday concerts and galas.

Traditional Christmas Strolls

Christmas strolls have also become a popular Cape Cod tradition in many towns.

Barnstable, Chatham, Dennis, Falmouth, Harwich, Hyannis, Osterville, Sandwich and Yarmouthport tie in these holiday strolls with other events such as caroling on town greens or at lighthouses, tree lighting, the arrival of Santa (sometimes even by boat!), festive shopping, open houses, holiday treats, special museum events and Christmas parades.

Cape Cod Christmas Vacations

There is so much to do around Cape Cod during the holidays. In fact, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a quiet Cape Cod town during the month of December.

Consider spending the holiday season on Cape Cod – and explore all that the region has to offer during this special time of year.

Book your stay at one of the award-winning Cape Cod Hotels, then break out the warm clothes and get into the Christmas spirit here on the coast of New England.

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