Cape Cod is typically a summertime destination, as its beaches, restaurants, and oceanfront fun make it a popular spot to spend a vacation. You don’t have to avoid the area in the winter, though, as there’s enough activity to keep you entertained, albeit of a different variety.
Some spots you might want to check out in the summer remain option in the winter, and as a bonus, you won’t have to deal with the same crowds. You can also visit some locations that might not cross your mind in the summer when booking a vacation rental in the offseason.
The Cape has you covered if you’re looking for a wintertime getaway. Here’s a look at seven must-visit spots for your Cape Cod vacation.
1) The Salt Pond Visitors Center
The Cape Cod National Seashore is one of the Cape’s most iconic locations. After all, its beaches offer beautiful views over the Atlantic Ocean, and its dunes provide a scenic backdrop as you enjoy the sun and surf.
The Salt Pond Visitors Center in Eastham is an orientation facility that provides information on the Seashore and everything it offers and remains open year-round. The center has a lobby with a museum and other exhibits and some hiking trails through the woods around Salt Pond, so you can make an afternoon of your time there.
2) Cape Cod Museum of Art
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Cape Cod Museum of Art in Dennis. This venue features exhibits by local artists, classes on various dates throughout the winter, and a concert series with shows taking place every Sunday between January and April.
It’s also possible to purchase some artwork from local creators during your visit. The Museum of Art keeps limited hours during the winter, but there’s more than enough time to check them out for some music or to view the exhibitions.
3) The Falmouth Theatre Guild
Community theater is alive and well on Cape Cod, largely thanks to associations like the Falmouth Theatre Guild. This venue near downtown Falmouth is home to numerous shows throughout the winter, with Christmas shows running in December and new plays hitting the stage in January.
The Falmouth Theatre Guide features Broadway-esque performances of some well-known plays, and the 2023 season is something you won’t want to miss. You can purchase tickets through the association’s website before you arrive on the Cape, with tickets costing $30 for adults and $25 for children under 18.
4) The Sandwich Antique Center
Looking for the perfect souvenir can be challenging, but the Sandwich Antique Center has you covered. Cape Cod is one of the country’s oldest areas, so you never know what kind of gems you’ll find while exploring this location or any other antique shops in the region.
The Sandwich Antique Center is over 5,000 square feet in size and specializes in jewelry and collectibles. You can also find some great furniture if you have space to bring it home with you. This shop has items you won’t find anywhere else in the world, so give them a try if you’re on the Cape this winter.
5) Truro Vineyards
Wine tasting seems like a summertime activity, but Truro Vineyards is open every Thursday through Monday in the winter, allowing you to check them out. They also have an on-site distillery called South Hollow Spirits, so you don’t have to stick to the wine on a cold day.
Truro Vineyards sits in a restored 1830s farmhouse, helping you experience a bit of history during your visit, as well. Don’t miss their North Truro location when on Cape Cod in the winter.
6) The Cape Cod Rescue Room
Nothing beats a visit to the spa on a cold day, and the Cape Cod Rescue Room is just the venue for you. This premier day spa offers massage, facials, and waxing, so you can spend the day in a warm environment and leave feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated for the rest of your vacation.
You can book your appointment at the Rescue Room entirely online, and they offer special deals for first-time visitors. The spa is located in Osterville, not far from Route 28.
7) Charles Moore Arena
Winter isn’t complete without going ice skating at least once, and the public skates at the Charles Moore Arena in Orleans will give you that opportunity. The venue has public skating every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday throughout the year, in addition to ice times on most Sundays and the odd Saturday in the winter. It’s also possible to play some drop-in hockey on Tuesdays and Fridays if you bring your gear.
Public skating costs $10 per person, while hockey costs $12 each. You can rent skates at the venue for $4, as well, but keep in mind they don’t have helmets or other equipment for rent.
There’s Plenty to Do When Temperatures Drop
No matter the weather, Cape Cod has some great ways to spend your time when visiting in the winter. Temperatures on the Cape rarely drop below 14 degrees, either, with the average low during the coldest part of winter in late January sitting at 26 degrees, so it’s also possible to spend some time outdoors if you bundle up.
Exploring Cape Cod in the winter makes it easier to get into the attractions on this list, too, helping you make the most of your vacation.
