The nightlife on Cape Cod has something for everyone, as some spots are known for their outstanding food and drinks, while others are worth a visit because of their live music or spirited atmosphere.

The Outer Cape has perhaps the region’s most diverse nightlife. After all, you can spend an evening enjoying pubs and restaurants in quiet towns like Eastham, Wellfleet, and Truro, or take a walk on the wild side by heading to Provincetown.

The choice is up to you once you book a Cape Cod vacation rental because all these locations are easily accessible. Here’s a look at the nightlife you’ll find on the Outer Cape.

Bars in Eastham

Eastham won’t be your first choice when searching for a lively night on the town, but it has some spots to check out if you book a vacation rental in the area.

Caroline’s Bar & Grill is a popular seafood restaurant in North Eastham with a full bar, outdoor patio, and live music between Memorial Day and Columbus Day. There’s typically music at this restaurant every Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, so you’ll have plenty of time to check out a band or two.

Local Break features local draft beer, a great seafood menu, and some of the Cape’s best burgers. You’ll also find an extensive cocktail menu at this local favorite.

The First Encounter Coffee House is a live music venue in a historic church. Acoustic concerts are held every two weeks, although it should be noted that this is an alcohol-free venue.

Eastham has just enough activity to keep you interested while on the Cape, so get out and support these small local businesses.

Late-Night Spots in Wellfleet

Wellfleet’s downtown area is a little more defined than Eastham’s, providing a bit more space for nightlife.

The Block & Tackle is a smokehouse and tavern with an extensive outdoor dining area that frequently hosts musical acts. Here, you can grab some smoked meat and a drink while taking advantage of Cape Cod’s great weather, making it an outstanding summertime destination.

Winslow’s Tavern has all kinds of excellent local beers on tap, in addition to a unique cocktail menu. The restaurant is set in a historic home but also has a large patio that’s a great place to begin your evening out in the summer.

The Bomb Shelter is a local pub directly across the street from Mayo Beach. It has a two-story patio that’s worth checking out in the summer, while its indoor area is set in a basement, and it feels like you’re stepping into an actual bomb shelter. The venue has a dive bar appeal, and many visitors appreciate its quirky atmosphere while spending a night out.

Much of Wellfleet is walkable, too, making it easy to move between venues and return to your vacation rental at the end of the night.

Places For a Drink in Truro

Heading further north takes you to Truro, a spread-out town with a few spots to visit on your evening out.

Avenue D Wine Bar has one of the Cape’s most extensive wine lists, as you’ll find national and international options by the glass and bottle that you’ll have to try. They also have some local beers and a snack menu if you get a little hungry.

The Whitman House has a restaurant and tavern, depending on your mood. The Bass Tavern, as it’s called, has a small menu featuring burgers and seafood and a full bar. It’s more like a dive bar than anything, but it is worth visiting in you’re looking for a couple of drinks to finish your night.

You’ll probably want to visit Truro Vineyards during the day for a wine tasting at a local vineyard. However, they frequently have concerts and other nighttime events, complete with food trucks, so check out their calendar before you arrive on Cape Cod.

Despite being a relatively quiet town, you’ll find some of the best wine anywhere on the Cape when visiting Truro.

Party Time in Provincetown

If you’re really looking to go out during your Cape Cod vacation, you’ll 100% need to visit Provincetown. This town on the Cape’s northern tip is its undisputed nightlife champion, as it’s loaded with bars, restaurants, and clubs for all tastes.

The Crown & Anchor is perhaps Provincetown’s best-known late-night location. It has six bars, a beach club, and multiple performing arts venues, and there’s always something going on behind its walls. Check out the venue’s website to see what’s in store during your visit.

The Club is a world-class jazz bar with live music and a patio overlooking Provincetown Harbor. There’s music every night, the kitchen is open late, and the bar continues until 1:00 AM, making it a favorite with anyone who wants to keep the party going.

The Underground is a dive bar with a dance floor, DJ, pool tables, ping pong table, jukebox, video games, and free popcorn. It also has a full bar menu and an eight-person shot-ski that’s popular with groups.

You can wander Commercial Street in Provincetown for days and barely scratch the surface of its nightlife, as there are bars for everyone in this incredibly inclusive town.

Your Night on the Outer Cape

Finding nightlife close to your vacation rental might be a priority because it makes it far easier to return to your temporary home as the evening draws to a close. For that reason, it’s nice to know all these towns on the Outer Cape have at least some nightlife to enjoy.

You can’t go wrong with booking a vacation rental on the Outer Cape because there’s something for everyone.