Provincetown to Boston

The Lower Cape town of Chatham is too pretty to miss on your return down Cape Cod’s elbow. The cute downtown is a popular destination, as is Lighthouse Beach, but Chatham’s most unique offering is the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy's Shark Center. At this small, family-friendly museum, visitors can enjoy interactive activities and exhibits surrounding one of the Cape’s most feared and revered creatures: the Great White Shark. You can even snap a selfie in a shark cage!
The Shark Center is open 10:00-15:00 Thursday-Sunday. Book your visit in advance online at the official website.

Don’t depart Cape Cod without a stroll down the Sandwich Boardwalk. This long walkway to Town Neck Beach is a real crowd pleaser, especially among daredevills who like to leap from the railings into Mill Creek. Bring your towel for a swim, but keep in mind that the walkway is narrow and sometimes crowded. Renovations for accessibility and storm damage are expected in the near future.

Sandwich’s Heritage Museums and Gardens span across more than 100 acres. There’s always something blooming in this impressive park, although the signature Cape Cod hydrangeas are the lead attraction from late-July through late-September. Visitors will find several miles of trails, lined with surprises like carousels, fountains, and “bee hotels.” Check the calendar for special events in the gardens and galleries.
Heritage Museums and Gardens is open from 10:00-17:00 daily from April 23, 2022 to October 16, 2022. Purchase tickets in advance online at the official website.

Eating a sandwich in Sandwich should be an integral part of the Cape Cod experience. Come lunch time, drop into Cafe Chew, a wholesome cafe specializing in espresso drinks and homemade bread. Lunch options like the hearty Pilgrim Sandwich (fresh roasted turkey with sage stuffing, cranberry mayo, and lettuce on cranberry-pecan bread) or lighter soups and salads are best enjoyed on Cafe Chew’s airy outdoor patio.
Open 8:00-15:00 daily.

Have you ever wondered how glass is shaped from a molten liquid into a work of art? Find out at the Sandwich Glass Museum! This gallery space off of Tupper Road has glassblowing demonstrations throughout the day, as well as collections of glass art on display and for sale. It’s a truly one-of-a-kind experience, and a great stop for souvenirs before you depart the Cape.
In-season hours are 9:30-17:00 from April 1 – December 30.

Break up the drive back to Boston with the island-inspired flavors at Preto’s — a brave new contender in Brockton’s dining scene. This Cape-Verdean restaurant puts off cheery vibes with its colorful atmosphere and music, but they’re quite serious when it comes to flavor. Seafood is their specialty, but the menu has a few turf options alongside a list of spectacular cocktails.