Are you interested in Cape Cod’s history? If so, there are plenty of ways to get out there and learn about one of the country’s oldest regions.

Of course, simply wandering a few historic neighborhoods will allow you to experience some of the architecture, but you might also want a knowledgeable local to provide in-depth information. That’s where the Cape’s plethora of guided walking tours come into play.

Most Cape Cod towns have a tour or two you can take to learn about the buildings and the people who built them. Some tours even feature stories of past residents who might still be present in spirit form.

Here’s a look at some of the top guided walking tours Cape Cod has to offer.

The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown

Anne Hutchinson was a spiritual advisor and midwife who played a pivotal role in the Antinomian Controversy that caused conflict in the Massachusetts Bay Colony between 1636 and 1638. Her ideologies were at odds with the Puritan clergy in the Boston area during that time, so she was eventually tried and banished along with her supporters.

Hutchinson’s challenges of authority and teachings eventually helped the American colonies gain religious freedom, and she’s recognized as one of the country’s most important people from that period.

If you spend any time in Provincetown during your Cape Cod vacation, it’s possible to participate in the Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown. This tour is guided by an actor playing the role of Hutchinson and teaching you about the town’s history. While Hutchinson doesn’t have a notable connection to Provincetown, seeing Provincetown and its unrestrained history through her eyes provides excellent insight and historical context.

These tours are $30 each and take about an hour to complete. They leave daily at 3:30 from The Crown & Anchor, and pre-booking your excursion is highly recommended.

Cape Cod’s Haunted & History Tour Company

With such a lengthy history, it makes sense that Cape Cod would have some ghost stories. Those who are into the spooky and paranormal might want to check out the offerings from Cape Cod’s Haunted & History Tour Company, which does nightly walking tours of Barnstable Village in the spring, summer, and fall.

These tours visit haunted locations like the Barnstable House, Cobb’s Hill Cemetery, the Hedge House, and other sites on Main Street. You’ll also get to enter the Old Jail, the country’s oldest wooden jailhouse and an actively haunted location. Your tour guide will allow you to participate in an EVP session inside the jail, too, where you’ll get to communicate with the spirits that remain.

These tours start from the Coast Guard Heritage Museum and last about three hours. The cost is $20, and you can call 508-241-1151 to book your spot.

Harwich Historical Society Walking Tours

The Harwich Historical Society organizes walking tours of the downtown area throughout the summer. These tours occur twice per month in July and August, and there is typically another in September. They’ll only cost you $10, making them a cost-efficient way to learn about the community.

Your tour will teach you about three prominent Harwich families from the town’s early days: Chase, Brooks, and Underwood. These families were heavily involved in local businesses and politics and helped shape much of what remains to this day.

The Historical Society also organized its Lantern Tours, which take place around Halloween. These tours will walk you through Pine Grove Cemetery, offering insight into the sea captains and other people who lived in Harwich and permanently rest at this location.

Historical Society of Old Yarmouth Tours

Another option is the Historical Society of Old Yarmouth. This group doesn’t have a regular tour schedule, but they organize periodic tours of locations like Yarmouth Port Common and the former site of an indigenous reservation in the town.

Some of these events in Yarmouth are free and don’t require pre-booking, but you’ll need tickets for others. Check out the Historical Society of Old Yarmouth’s website for more information on upcoming events.

Brewster Historical Society Tours

Brewster has a rich history to explore, too, and you can do so by taking a tour by the Brewster Historical Society. The exact route the excursion follows depends on the one you select. For instance, the Haunts and Habitats Walking Tour explores Main Street and the captains’ houses that line it. You’ll also visit the Ancient Burial Ground and learn about the town’s past citizens.

Another option is the Grave Situation walking tour at Brewster Cemetery. This event takes you through some of the town’s most infamous grave sites and is something you won’t want to miss if you’re into dark history. Keep in mind that this tour isn’t suitable for young kids.

Walk the Cape

These guided walking tours not only get you outside and into nature but also ensure you learn something on your next Cape Cod vacation. They provide a short break from the beach and the crowds that frequent the region’s most popular locations, as well.

Taking a walking tour or two will ensure you return home with some knowledge, making these first-class excursions well worth your time.