Museums on Cape Cod
Did you know there are more than 75 Museums on Cape Cod? While Eastham has its fair share (see our Eastham Attractions page for details), small, historical and interesting museums abound on this popular peninsula. In fact, the small museums on Cape Cod even have their own promotional organization, The Cape Cod Museum Trail.
They range from cultural institutions to art centers and classic historical societies. These museums have something to offer everyone. Each one provides a unique spin or insight on Cape Cod’s past, present, and future. And, they offer a mix of exhibits. These include events, family activities, lectures, nature trails, gardens, animals, classes, and more. Keep your eye on the museum trail website to see what might interest you during your stay.
Our Favorite Small Museums on Cape Cod (Outside Eastham)
These three museum are all quite different from each other and all three are less than a 30 minute drive from your Town Crier guestroom door.
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
Located in Brewster, this exceptional museum is dedicated to inspiring appreciation, understanding, and stewardship of our natural environment and wildlife. Displays include an archaeological exhibit, rotating exhibits of nature art, and even a small aquarium. Everything is geared toward discovery and learning. Insider Tip: Look for “bird alley,” the large collection of mounted Cape Cod bird specimens donated to the Museum by the Ralph E. Stuart estate.
The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy Center
Love them or hate them, sharks are a Cape Cod reality. This fascinating center in Chatham offers an in-depth look at one of the ocean's most misunderstood (and often maligned) species: the Great White Shark. Learn more than you ever thought you needed to know about this predator through interactive exhibits, videos, displays, and virtual reality experiences. Insider Tip: You can keep on learning about sharks even after your visit. The museum offers an impressive online trove of videos and lessons.
The Atwood House & Museum
Experience Cape Cod life, art, and culture of the 18th and 19th centuries at this expansive Chatham museum. Comprised of a main house and numerous outbuildings, The Atwood displays colonial and early American antiques, accessories, housewares, clothing, toys, costumes, textiles and more. A rare working lantern house from one of the historic Chatham Twin Lights also has a home on the museum grounds. Insider tip: Don’t miss the impressive collection of more than 300 paintings from the late 19th and early 20th century.