Attractions and Places To See around Barnstable - Top 17

Barnstable is rich in history. You can explore the Olde Colonial Courthouse, which played a significant role in ending British rule on Cape Cod, or visit the Old Gaol (Jail), the oldest wooden jail in the United States. The John F. Kennedy Memorial in Hyannis also offers insight into the Kennedy family's connection to the area. Additionally, the town of Sandwich, the oldest on Cape Cod, features many preserved historic houses.

Yes, Barnstable offers several family-friendly options. Craigville Beach is known for its warm waters and amenities like lifeguards and a snack bar, making it ideal for families. Sandy Neck Beach Park provides vast spaces for exploration. For a unique experience, consider the Cape Cod Inflatable Park or a Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruise.

Barnstable boasts diverse natural landscapes. Sandy Neck Beach Park features dunes, maritime forests, and salt marshes along 6.5 miles of coastline. You can also visit the Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary for tranquil walks and wildlife spotting, or the Barnstable Great Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary for expansive salt marsh views and diverse bird species.

The region has vibrant cultural districts. The Barnstable Village Cultural District on Route 6A is home to historical buildings, artist studios, and galleries. In Hyannis, the Hyannis HyArts Cultural District features public art and galleries. You can also visit the Cotuit Center for the Arts for performances and exhibits, or the Zion Union Heritage Museum to learn about African American and Cape Verdean contributions to Cape Cod history.

Absolutely. The Eastern Terminus of the Cape Cod Canal Bikeway at Scusset Beach State Reservation marks the beginning of a popular bikeway along the canal, offering scenic views and the chance to spot seals. For more cycling routes, you can explore the MTB Trails around Barnstable guide.

Barnstable is known for its beautiful beaches. Craigville Beach in Centerville is a very popular spot with warm waters and amenities. Sandy Neck Beach Park offers a vast, scenic stretch along Cape Cod Bay. Kalmus Beach in Hyannis is also a prime location for windsurfing and kiteboarding.

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The West Barnstable Conservation Area features trails through pine-oak woodlands. For specific routes, you can check out the Hiking around Barnstable guide, which includes trails like the Eagle Pond Loop and the Old Jail Lane Conservation Area Loop. There's also a guide for Easy hikes around Barnstable.

For something unique, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour at the Cape Cod Potato Chips Factory to see how the famous chips are made. The Coast Guard Heritage Museum, located in a former U.S. Customs House, celebrates U.S. Coast Guard history and is on the grounds of the oldest wooden jail in the country.

Yes, Barnstable offers several museums. The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum explores the Kennedy family's connection to the Cape. The Coast Guard Heritage Museum in Barnstable Village showcases U.S. Coast Guard history. Additionally, the Zion Union Heritage Museum in Hyannis highlights the contributions of African Americans and Cape Verdeans to the region.

The Barnstable Village Cultural District is a designated area on Route 6A known for its concentration of historical buildings, artist studios, galleries, shops, and various musical and theater groups. It's a great place to experience the local arts and heritage.

In areas like the Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary and the Barnstable Great Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, you can spot diverse wildlife. This includes various bird species, such as shorebirds and waterfowl, as well as different types of turtles. The Eastern Terminus of the Cape Cod Canal Bikeway is also a place where seals can sometimes be seen in the ocean.