25 Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA (2024) - New England Wanderlust (2024)

Table of Contents
Is Provincetown Worth Visiting? Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA 1. Walk Up & Down Commercial Street Best Place To Park For Commercial Street 2. Hike The Dune Shacks Trail 3. Head Out Into The Dunes With Art’s Dune Tours 4. Go Whale Watching With Dolphin Fleet 5. Explore The National Seashore At Race Point Beach 6. See The Old Life Saving Station 7. Hike To Race Point Lighthouse 8. See Even More Of The National Seashore At Herring Cove Beach 9. Walk Around MacMillan Pier 10. Hop Across The Provincetown Causeway 11. Hike The Long Point Trail 12. Ride The Long Point Shuttle 13. Stroll Through The West End 14. Take A Pedicab Tour Through Town 15. See The Views At The Top Of The Pilgrim Monument 16. Experience The Anne Hutchinson Tour 17. Sail Provincetown Harbor With Moment Sailing Tours 18. Bike The Province Lands Trail 19. Be Inspired At The Provincetown Art Association and Museum 20. See A Night Show or Cabaret 21. Dine At The Famed Lobster Pot 22. Relax At Suzanne’s Secret Garden 23. Visit The Actual Pilgrim Landing Location 24. Get Some Delicious Portuguese Pastries 25. Provincetown Brewing Co. What Are The Best Provincetown Beaches? Free Things To Do In Provincetown, MA How Many Days Do You Need In Provincetown? Can You Do A Day Trip To Provincetown? Is Provincetown Walkable? Is There Uber In Provincetown? How To Get Around Provincetown Without A Car How To Get To Provincetown? How Long Is The Ferry From Boston To Provincetown? How To Get To Provincetown From NYC Is Provincetown Dog-Friendly? What Is Provincetown Famous For? How Did Provincetown Get Its Name? Is Provincetown Safe? Best Restaurants In Provincetown Where To Get The Best Lobster Roll in Provincetown Where To Stay In Provincetown, MA That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA References

Provincetown is the town at the very tip of Cape Cod, and it’s also one of the most unique and exciting places on the Cape to visit. I also think it’s one of the best beach towns in New England! If you’re wondering what to do in Provincetown, just keep reading because I’m sharing all the very best things to do in Provincetown, MA to help you plan the perfect trip.

If you’re visiting the Cape for the first time (or any time!), a trip to Provincetown is definitely a must to experience the local art scene, the lively atmosphere, gorgeous beaches and the famous Commercial Street. Once you experience it, you’ll see why it’s a special place to visit. Even though I’ve been so many times at this point, with each time I visit, I grow to love it even more.

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Is Provincetown Worth Visiting?

An enthusiastic yes! Provincetown is a very special place not only on Cape Cod, but is also one of the best places to see along the New England coast. There’s an undeniable energy in Provincetown that’s simultaneously exhilarating and exciting, but also relaxed and chill. And with Provincetown being home to two of the most beautiful beaches on Cape Cod, Race Point and Herring Cove, both of which are part of the National Seashore, you’ll be able to experience stunning coastline, and the exuberance of downtown.

Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA

There are way more than 25 things to do in in this charming little town, but I’m going to highlight my favorite sights and activities. So, as you plan your own itinerary, and are wondering what to do in Provincetown, you’ll easily be able to plan the absolute best trip with these tips.

1. Walk Up & Down Commercial Street

If you’re going to do one thing in Provincetown, let it be Commercial Street. This 3-mile long street through the center of town is packed with shops, restaurants and bars, historic sites, art galleries and also provides access to the water. This is pretty much the ultimate Main Street experience on Cape Cod.

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In the evenings, Commercial Street becomes the town’s hub for nightlife, with comedy, cabaret and drag shows being one of the best activities in Ptown (but more on that in a bit!).

Best Place To Park For Commercial Street

If you want the easiest access to Commercial Street, you’ll want to park at MacMillan Pier, which is puts you right in the heart of Commercial Street in Provincetown. Parking at MacMillan Pier is paid parking, and credit cards are accepted.

For a slightly more affordable option, or if the MacMillan lot is full (which can happen in the summer season), you’ll want to head to the Grace Hall parking lot, which is an easy 10-ish minute walk into downtown. This is where I most often park.

2. Hike The Dune Shacks Trail

For an amazing and inspiring adventure, you’ll want to hike the Dunes Shack Trail, which is a 2.4 mile trail through the sand dunes, and most definitely one of the best things to do in Provincetown, MA. Some say this is one of the most authentic and beautiful experiences you can have on Cape Cod!

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The trail is named for the 19 shacks that are scattered along the dunes and coast in this area, and many of them have an amazing history having been inspiration for famous writers and artists. To this day, they’re offered as residences for artists and writers to truly immerse themselves into nature. In fact, they’ve become so popular within the arts community, there are lottery and jury selections for those who apply to stay in the shacks each year, so being selected is a special experience.

Before you begin planning your amazing glamping experience in the shacks, you should know that they have no plumbing, no electricity and are not immune to the local critters (snakes, mice, bugs, etc). They provide a true, rustic escape for creatives to reinvigorate their minds and souls and draw new inspirations. It’ll probably be enough of an experience for you just to hike past them.

For more detailed information on the actual hike, be sure to click the link below to read my post on the best hikes and scenic walks on Cape Cod.

Tip: For this hike, be sure to bring some water with you, as the entire trail is directly exposed to the sun (meaning there is no shade). Also, bring a beach towel and a swim suit to take advantage of the beautiful beach!

Click here for more detailed information on hiking the Dune Shacks Trail in Provincetown!

3. Head Out Into The Dunes With Art’s Dune Tours

For an incredibly memorable experience, book a tour with Art’s Dune Tours, one of the absolute best things to do in Ptown. This is a great way to get out into the dunes without the strenuous walk, and to also learn all kinds of amazing facts and stories about Provincetown, the history of the dune shacks, and the local community. This family-owned company, has been offering tours since 1946, so their experience and knowledge is absolutely unparalleled.

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Personally, this is not only one of the best things in Provincetown, but I’ve done in all my countless visits to Cape Cod, and I can’t recommend it enough.

4. Go Whale Watching With Dolphin Fleet

Did you know that Provincetown is regarded as one of the best places in the U.S. for whale watching? When deciding what to do in Provincetown, be sure to take a tour with Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch for a truly memorable experience. Dolphin Fleet guarantees you’ll see a whale on the tour, or they will offer you a voucher for another tour.

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On top of that, Dolphin Fleet whale watching tours are led by a naturalist, and they do an amazing job explaining the local ecosystem, what whales and other wildlife live out in the waters surrounding the Cape, and also share lots of interesting history about Provincetown’s connection to marine life education.

The most recent tour I did with Dolphin Fleet was led by a naturalist who had been on expeditions in Alaska, Greenland and Antarctica, and she was such a joy to listen to during the whole tour.

Tours are about 3-4 hours long, and depart right from MacMillan Pier.

Tip: Even in the summer on a hot day, be sure to pack a sweater or a light jacket, as it’s always colder out on the water.

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5. Explore The National Seashore At Race Point Beach

One of the best Cape Cod National Seashore beaches is Race Point Beach, and with this beach being just outside of downtown, it’s definitely one of the best things to do during your visit. Race Point also has one of the best sunsets on Cape Cod, and I highly recommend either staying on the beach until sunset, or coming back to see it because it’s definitely worth it.

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Seals have been known to make an appearance at this beach, so consider packing some binoculars or a good camera just in case! Every time I’ve come during sunset, I’ve had at least 2-3 seal sightings.

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Tip: To get to Race Point, you will have to leave downtown Provincetown and drive to the beach. There is a daily $25 parking fee per car for National Seashore beaches between Memorial Day and mid-September, and the park stops charging for parking after 4:30-5p.

Click here to read about the best sunsets on Cape Cod!

6. See The Old Life Saving Station

While you’re at Race Point Beach, be sure to pop over to the Old Life Saving Station for some sweeping views of the beach, sand dunes and beach grasses (basically, a quintessential Cape Cod scene). You won’t need much time here, but it’s a really nice place for a quiet moment while you take in the views, and definitely worth a stop if you’re already there.

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To access the Old Life Saving Station, just walk a short distance from the main parking area at Race Point Beach. Facing the water, you’ll want to veer right, and you’ll see it behind the bathrooms and changing areas.

7. Hike To Race Point Lighthouse

For the ultimate Race Point Beach experience, you can also choose to walk all the way to the end of the beach, which is where you’ll find Race Point Lighthouse. The walk is about 4 miles round trip, and relatively easy and flat (the only slight challenge is walking in some soft sand, which will slow you down a bit), but Provincetown is worth visiting just to do this hike. Most skills levels should be able to complete this walk without any issues.

I also picked Race Point Lighthouse as one of the best New England lighthouses to see because once you get all the way out there, you can enjoy a secluded part of the beach, and enjoy the sand dune scenery.

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Another alternative is to do the Hatches Harbor trail out to Race Point, which is the option I personally prefer. Click the link below for more detailed information on this hike.

Click here to read more information on the Race Point Lighthouse hike!

Tip: This trail can be buggy is the spring and summer, so if you think there’s a chance you’ll need it, bring bug spray. And of course, bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to jump in the water.

8. See Even More Of The National Seashore At Herring Cove Beach

Also within the Cape Cod National Seashore, Herring Cove Beach is another one that’s more than worth your time. It provides has beautiful, sweeping views of the Atlantic, and is another great spot for a lovely sunset on a clear night.

The same parking fees and rules as Race Point Beach will apply for Herring Cove, so plan accordingly. If you have time during your visit, I suggest visiting both Race Point and Herring Cove beaches – they’re absolutely stunning.

9. Walk Around MacMillan Pier

Just off Commercial Street, and also where the ferries and tour boats dock, you’ll find MacMillan Pier. You won’t need to spend a lot of time here, but it’s worth walking up and down the pier to take in views of Provincetown from the water, and to see some of the fishing boats up close. There are plenty of photo opportunities here, as well as some little shops selling handmade goods.

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10. Hop Across The Provincetown Causeway

For a fun excursion just outside of downtown, be sure to take a walk along the Provincetown Causeway. This breakwater is about a mile long, and offers access to Long Point (but more on that next). For an easier experience than heading out to Long Point, it’s still really fun to walk along the rocks, and take in views from out in the water.

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Tip: Part of the causeway will be under water during high tide, and I suggest you check tide times before heading out to make sure you can safely return. Click here to check the Provincetown tide schedule.

11. Hike The Long Point Trail

This 6-mile long looped trail will bring you out to the very tip of Cape Cod, and allow you feel like you’re worlds away from civilization (and the views aren’t too bad, either). During the hike, you’ll also be able to see two lighthouses, Wood End and Long Point.

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This is a tough hike because you’ll be walking on soft sand most of the time, and you’ll start the hike by crossing the entire causeway, but it’s flat and easy otherwise, and definitely one of the most adventurous and best things you can do in Provincetown, MA. Be sure to click the link below for more detailed information on what to expect during the hike.

Click here for more information on hiking out to Long Point!

Tip: If you don’t want to hike both ways, or want to skip the hike all together, be sure to read the next activity for a fun and easier option.

12. Ride The Long Point Shuttle

If you want to get out to Long Point, and either don’t want to do any part of the hike, or want to only hike there, but not back, one of the best insider tips I have for you to get out there is the Long Point Shuttle. This shuttle runs from mid-May through Labor Day weekend, and departs from MacMillan Pier to bring you directly to Long Point by boat.

Once you arrive at Long Point, you can spend the day at a quiet beach, and also see Long Point Lighthouse (Woods End light will be tough to visit unless you hike there, as it’s pretty far from Long Point).

To ride the Long Point Shuttle, no reservations are taken, and rides are cash only, so be prepared with the correct amount. A one-way ticket is $15, and a round-trip ticket is $20. Click here to see the shuttle schedule. Be aware that the schedule can fluctuate from year to year, so be sure to check the current schedule as close to your trip as possible to ensure it will be running during your visit.

13. Stroll Through The West End

Most people will stay right in the enter of town when visiting Provincetown, but I definitely suggest you walk around the West End, which is where you’ll find a quieter part of town that’s more residential and incredibly charming (the whole town is charming, but I especially like this neighborhood).

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In the West End, you’ll also find the most famous house in Provincetown, which can be found near 77 Commercial Street. In the summer, there are always lots of people around trying to get a picture, so once you see the crowd of people, you’ll know you’re close.

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But honestly, all of the little houses and side streets in this area as equally as gorgeous as the next, and packed with character. It’s well-worth meandering over this way to take it all in.

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14. Take A Pedicab Tour Through Town

Give your feet a little break and hop on board an open-air pedi cab for an awesome tour around town! On this guided tour, you’ll get a local’s insight into life in Provincetown, and you’ll swing through Commercial Street, Pilgrim’s First Landing Park, Herring Cove Beach and end back in downtown Ptown.

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and can accommodate up to three people, and is one of the best things to do in Provincetown to get a feel for the town quickly and easily.

Click here to book your pedi cab tour around Provincetown!

15. See The Views At The Top Of The Pilgrim Monument

Once of the best things to experience in town if you’re looking for incredible views is to go to the top of the Pilgrim Monument. Built between 1907 and 1910 to commemorate the Pilgrims’ landing in Provincetown, this tower sits 252 feet above the town and has spectacular views of the ocean. It’s also the tallest all-granite structure in the U.S.!

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To get to the top of the monument, you can either walk the 116 steps, or take the elevator. If you choose to walk, you’ll see stones along the interior with names of towns, and these all specify the communities that donated stones to help build the monument. It’s fun to check and see if your town is listed!

On-site is also the Provincetown Museum, which showcases the maritimes history of the new land after the Pilgrims’ arrival.

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Tip: There is a fee to visit the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum, and one ticket will allow you admission to both the tower and museum. Click here to book purchase your tickets online.

16. Experience The Anne Hutchinson Tour

If you’re wondering what to do in Provincetown that’s really unique and different, and also combines Puritan history with feminism, then this tour is for you!

This guided tour is led by a drag queen dressed as Anne Hutchinson, who is regarded as one of the first feminists in the country for often challenging male authority figures. You’ll learn all about her challenges in vocally questioning Puritan values and teachings with witty and entertaining commentary throughout the entire tour. This is a really fun one! Be sure to click the link below to book your tickets for this tour.

Tip: This tour is best-suited for adults only, and lasts between 45 minutes to an hour.

Click here to book your Anne Hutchinson tour in Provincetown!

17. Sail Provincetown Harbor With Moment Sailing Tours

If whale watching doesn’t float your boat, maybe sailing will. Head out onto the open waters with Moment Sailing Tours, and enjoy views of Provincetown from the water, as well as sail by lighthouses, beaches and local wildlife (you may spot a seal or two, or maybe even a dolphin or whale during the tour!).

Moment Sailing Tours offers 2-hour, 4-hour and 6-hour sails around Provincetown Harbor, Long Point, and even further during the 6-hour sail. You’re also welcomed to bring food and drinks aboard, or even opt for them to have a chef-prepared meal waiting for you on-board.

Tip: All charters with Moment Sailing Tours are private, and the price is per tour, not per person. This is a great option if you have a group and can share the cost for a special experience. Reservations can be made online directly through their website.

18. Bike The Province Lands Trail

Ride along the very first bike path that was built by the National Park Service right here in Provincetown. This path is just over 5 miles long, but with options to continue on to Race Point Beach or Herring Cove Beach, you can add another two miles. Along the path, you’ll pass through dunes, cranberry bogs and forrest, making it one of the best things you can do in Provincetown, MA to appreciate the amazing scenery.

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It’s important to note that this bike path is not for beginners, and is much hillier than the Cape Cod Rail Trail. It’s only suggested you tackle this path is you’re an intermediate to advanced cyclist, or are ready for a serious workout.

To start the trail, you’ll want to park at the Province Lands Visitor’s Center, and parking here is free.

19. Be Inspired At The Provincetown Art Association and Museum

The most popular and most-visited art museum in all of Cape Cod is the Provincetown Art Association and Museum, and it’s one of the best things to do to immerse yourself into the local art community. Most exhibits in the museum feature artists who have worked or studied their art form in the Outer Cape region. With exhibits changing frequently, there’s always something new and inspiring to see.

Artistic visitors are also welcome to sketch from the displayed works while visiting the museum, provided they supply their own supplies, and don’t block any exits or entrances. So if you’re looking for some new inspiration, this may be the perfect place for you to draw it from!

Once a year, PAAM also participates in The Annual Secret Garden Tour, where visitors are able to go on a self-guided tour through private gardens in Provincetown, and also tour the museum. Proceeds of the tour directly help to fund exhibits and art grants at PAAM.

20. See A Night Show or Cabaret

It’s impossible to talk about the best activities in Ptown and not mention the exciting nightlife, which includes awesome night and cabaret shows. It won’t be hard to find venues because after walking up and down Commercial Street, you’ll see people handing out flyers to their shows, or advertising them with flash dance mobs.

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But, if you want to take the guesswork out of it, one great venue is the Post Office Cafe & Cabaret, which is a cafe by day, and bar and entertainment venue by night (and also a really great place for breakfast!). They list their upcoming shows and events on their website (performances are usually only in-season), to help you plan in advance.

Another amazing cabaret venue is the Peregrine Theater, and you’ll be able to take a look at their upcoming shows and buy tickets directly through their website.

Click here to read about all the best things to do on Cape Cod in the fall, including the best Halloween parties in Provincetown!

21. Dine At The Famed Lobster Pot

One of the most popular restaurants not just in Provincetown, but all of Cape Cod, is The Lobster Pot, which is right on Commercial Street by MacMillan Pier, and this is one you’ll definitely want to add to your itinerary. While a lot of places that are wildly popular can sometimes be a letdown, I’ve loved every meal I’ve eaten here.

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Some of the menu highlights are pretty much any of the Portuguese items, the lobster roll, clam chowder in a bread bowl, codfish Rockefeller, and their clambake dinner. I do think it’s worth visiting Provincetown just to have a meal here.

The restaurant does have a small outdoor section, with many indoor tables offering a view of the water. They don’t take reservations, so it’s best to be prepared to wait, or go at an off time. For example, when I visit in July, I’ll try to go around 3:30 or 4p when the lunch crowds are done, but the early bird diners haven’t begun to filter in yet. I never wait at this time, and consider it a late lunch/early dinner (and order a lot of food!).

22. Relax At Suzanne’s Secret Garden

This is a real off-the-beaten path spot in Provincetown, and it’s one of those little excursions that makes Provincetown worth visiting. Located on the East End about a mile from MacMillan Pier off Commercial Street is this beautiful little garden oasis that’s perfect for a quiet moment and to admire all the gorgeous plants and flowers.

While this garden is pretty small, it’s very charming, and you may even encounter an artist painting its picture when visiting.

23. Visit The Actual Pilgrim Landing Location

Many people think that the nearby Plymouth, MA was the landing spot for the Pilgrims when they arrived on The Mayflower, but they actually first landed right here in Provincetown. To visit the actual Pilgrim first landing location, you can head to Pilgrims’ First Landing Park, which is right by the Provincetown Causeway, and has really nice views of the water.

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This is another destination that won’t require much of your time, but it’s a great place to reflect on the journey our ancestors took to establish the New World, and to say that you’ve visited the actual landing place of the Pilgrims. Parking here is also free year-round.

24. Get Some Delicious Portuguese Pastries

Provincetown has a long-standing history with the Portuguese community, as many Portuguese sailors immigrated and settled here in the early 1900s. That’s why you’ll see lots of Portuguese cuisine and dishes on menus all over town.

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But a stand out is the Provincetown Portuguese Bakery right on Commercial Street in downtown. Here, you can find amazing and authentic Portuguese pastries, including the famous Pastel de Nata.

25. Provincetown Brewing Co.

To taste some local brews, be sure to stop into Provincetown Brewing Co., where you can do beer flights and tastings, and also enjoy some light bites like salads, sandwiches, nachos, soft pretzels and even a homemade brownie sundae.

Ptown Brewing is easy to visit with its location being right on Commercial Street, close to MacMillan Pier and the heart of Provincetown.

What Are The Best Provincetown Beaches?

Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach are the best beaches in Provincetown, MA. While there are some smaller sand beaches that are free to visit just off Commercial Street in town where you can go swimming. But if you’re looking for the most scenic and impressive beaches, you’ll want to go to Race Point or Herring Cove.

Tip: Just a reminder that Race Point and Herring Cove are part of the National Seashore, and a $25 daily parking fee will apply during the day before 5p.

Free Things To Do In Provincetown, MA

One of the best things about Provincetown is that many of the sites and attractions are free to visit and experience. Below is a round-up of all the free things to do in Provincetown:

  • Pilgrim’s First Landing Location
  • Provincetown Causeway
  • Dune Shack Trail
  • Long Point Trail
  • Commercial Street
  • Suzanne’s Garden
  • Shank Painter Pond Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Province Lands Bike Path
  • Pilgrim Monument (viewing only from around town, entrance fee to go inside applies)
  • MacMillan Pier
  • Race Point Beach (including the Old Life Saving Station) and Herring Cove Beach will be free to visit after 4:30-5p.
  • Race Point Lighthouse Hike (parking along Province Lands Road is free!)
  • Walking through the West End
  • Visiting the local art galleries and shops
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How Many Days Do You Need In Provincetown?

The great thing about Provincetown is that you can spend anywhere from an afternoon to a week or more here, and you’ll feel like you’ve had a wonderful Cape Cod experience. This destination makes for both a great day excursion and a week-long vacation.

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Of course, if you’re looking to spend more than a day here and wondering what to do in Provincetown to fill up your time, it won’t be hard! Definitely be sure to tackle some of the amazing hikes on this list and spend more time at the beaches, which is absolutely recommended.

Can You Do A Day Trip To Provincetown?

Absolutely! I often come to Provincetown just for the day since I personally prefer to stay in the lower cape region. Expect the drive to be about an hour from the mid or lower Cape areas, and possible a bit longer in the summer because of traffic.

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For a Provincetown day trip, especially if it’s your first visit, I would recommend sticking to Commercial Street and MacMillan Pier, grabbing lunch or dinner somewhere, maybe doing a whale watch because it’s definitely worth it, and end your day with a sunset at either Race Point or Herring Cove. It will be tough to tackle the longer hikes with a day trip, but it can be done if you’re looking for something more adventurous.

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If you’re wondering what to do in Provincetown for a day trip, spending all day at Race Point or Herring Cove also makes Provincetown worth visiting if you’re looking for a lazy day at the beach. And then you could head into town for a nice dinner after.

Is Provincetown Walkable?

Provincetown is very walkable, especially if you’re looking to visit the main downtown area (Commercial Street, shops, galleries, restaurants, Pilgrim Monument, MacMillan Pier). The West and East Ends are also easy to get to on foot. In fact, walking around and exploring downtown is one of the best things you can do in the area.

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The only times a car will come in handy is when you want to explore Race Point or Herring Cove beaches, or hit up any of the hiking trails, as those are located pretty far from downtown.

Is There Uber In Provincetown?

Yes, Uber is available in Provincetown, and it’s very easy to request and schedule rides.

How To Get Around Provincetown Without A Car

If you don’t have a car in Provincetown, and want to get to places outside of downtown Ptown, there are a few options. First, there’s Uber, which is the most convenient option. Second, there is a shuttle than runs in-season and takes visitors from MacMillan Pier to Race Point Beach, Herring Cove Beach, North Truro, Beech Forest, Provincetown Airport, Provincetown Inn and the Province Lands Visitor’s Center.

Tip: Rides on the Provincetown Shuttle are $2 per person, and exact cash is needed as the driver’s don’t make change. Click here for more information.

How To Get To Provincetown?

If you’re visiting Provincetown from New England, driving will likely be the best way for you to get there. If you need to fly, Provincetown has its own airport, and through Bostons’s Logan Airport, you can fly direct to Provincetown on CapeAir or JetBlue. From Boston, you can also take a ferry direct to Provincetown.

How Long Is The Ferry From Boston To Provincetown?

There are two companies that offer ferries from Boston direct to Provincetown, and they both take about 1.5 hours. Visit either Bay State Cruise Company or City Experiences for more information.

How To Get To Provincetown From NYC

The best and easiest way to get to Provincetown, MA from New York City is to drive, as there is no direct route via public transit. The drive takes between 5-6 hours, depending on traffic.

You can also opt to fly from New York to Provincetown, but you’ll have a layover in Boston, and the cost is usually at least $1,000 between April and November.

Is Provincetown Dog-Friendly?

My personal opinion on this is mixed. In many ways, Provincetown is very dog friendly. There is a great dog park called the Pilgrim Bark Park in Provincetown that we love to take our dog to when we visit with her. There’s also a beach appropriately named Dog Beach on the West End where all dogs are allowed to play and swim. And of course, your pup is welcome to explore outside with you in Ptown along Commercial Street, where many shops will leave out water bowls.

25 Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA (2024) - New England Wanderlust (29)

That said, when it comes time to eat, I haven’t found a lot of restaurants that offer great food and allow your dog to sit outside. Most restaurants still don’t allow dogs to sit outside with their owners. One exception is The Canteen, where dogs are allowed in the seating area outside (this place is an order at the counter, and then grab a table outside kind of place).

And while Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach allow leashed dogs outside of lifeguarded areas during peak season, the National Park Service often prohibits dogs on beaches during that time because of shorebird nesting season. So, it’s important to check before taking your dog to any beach in Provincetown. Click here for more information on pets at the National Seashore, including shorebird advisories.

Overall, I do think Provincetown is dog-friendly, especially if you visit outside of shorebird nesting season. But it’s not the most dog-friendly destination I’ve traveled to (much of New England, sadly, isn’t).

What Is Provincetown Famous For?

Provincetown is most known as being a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community since the 1950s, where everyone is free to be who they are and express themselves is a safe space. It’s truly an inspiring community to witness.

25 Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA (2024) - New England Wanderlust (30)

Provincetown is also known for being located at the very tip of Cape Cod, and as the gateway to boat rides and hikes that allow visitors to reach the actual end of Cape Cod, called Long Point. The art community in Provincetown is also nationally recognized, and has become a destination for artists of all mediums to draw inspiration from.

In fact, when deciding what to do in Provincetown, consider walking around to get your own artistic inspiration!

How Did Provincetown Get Its Name?

When the town we now call Provincetown originally separated from the neighboring town of Truro in 1741, it was referred to as the Province of the Massachusetts Colony. It was shortened to just Provincetown shortly after.

Is Provincetown Safe?

Provincetown is incredibly safe, and an amazing destination where female solo travelers, and LGTBQ+ travelers will be welcomed, and can feel confident in traveling alone, and not hiding who they are for fear of becoming a target. With normal precautions, nightlife is also very safe in Provincetown.

25 Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA (2024) - New England Wanderlust (31)

Best Restaurants In Provincetown

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a bad place to eat in Provincetown, as most restaurants are serving up great food and fresh seafood. While my favorite restaurant continues to be The Lobster Pot, here are some other really awesome restaurants to consider when deciding what to do in Provincetown.

25 Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA (2024) - New England Wanderlust (32)
  • Ross Grill – A bit of a hidden gem located in Whaler’s Wharf right on Commercial Street. I’ve loved everything I’ve ever ordered from here, but their shrimp po’ boy sandwich stands out. They also have views of the water.
  • The Patio – A beautiful space with an awesome patio right on Commercial Street, perfect for people-watching and grabbing a co*cktail and light meal.
  • Far Land Provisions – A casual takeout place that’s also part general store with an awesome bakery. They have amazing sandwiches and bagels here, so if you need a quick lunch on the go, or things to bring with you for a beach day, this is a great place to stop.
  • Tin Pan Alley – A great sit down restaurant with awesome seafood and great vegetarian options.
  • The Canteen – Love coming here to sit outside with a co*cktail, and pick from both seafood and comfort food options. A lot of their tables are outside in the sand, which makes for a fun expereince. They also have great selections for vegetarians, and as already mentioned, their seating area outside is pet-friendly!
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Where To Get The Best Lobster Roll in Provincetown

The best lobster roll that I’ve had in Provincetown has been at The Lobster Pot. Other great options are The Canteen and Far Land Provisions.

Where To Stay In Provincetown, MA

There are tons of accommodations in Provincetown, ranging from in-town stays in the heart of downtown, and places that offer a bit more tranquility just outside of town, close to the beaches. Here are a few awesome options for a wonderful stay in Provincetown.

The Stowaway: Perfect if you want to stay right in downtown. This is a gorgeous victorian-style inn offers uniquely-decorated guest rooms, free on-site parking and a breakfast included with your stay. And you’re a short walk to the heart of everything in downtown Provincetown.

Click here to check rates & availability at the Stowaway

The Breakwater Hotel: Perfect for those traveling with pets. This dog-friendly hotel is just about a mile from the heart of downtown, so still walkable, but it’s also right across the street from the beach. The rooms are nice decorated in a modern, colorful style, and the rooms are really comfortable with outdoor lounge areas for each guest. Free on-site parking.

Click here to check rates & availability at the Breakwater Hotel

Cove Point Cottage: Perfect for those looking for a vacation rental right on the beach. This 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom cottage has direct beach access, and is perfect for a couple or solo traveler. Walkable to downtown with a gorgeous back deck for lounging.

Click here to check rates & availability at Cove Point Cottage

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That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA

Now that you know about all the best things to do in Provincetown, I hope you’re looking forward to planning your own trip. Whether you’re excited to tackle some of the amazing hikes, enjoy the nightlife, visit some of the best beaches on Cape Cod, or eat your way through town, you won’t have a hard time deciding what to do in Provincetown!

25 Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA (2024) - New England Wanderlust (2024)

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