The Best Cape Cod Museums

In Massachusetts, we are proud of our seafaring heritage. One of the best ways our guests can learn about Cape Cod's maritime history is by exploring the numerous museums along the Cape. Learn the stories of the early Native American inhabitants (the Wampanoags), the Pilgrims, and even pirates. Discover how Cape Cod became what it is today!

Whydah Pirate Museum

Address: 674 MA-28, West Yarmouth, MA
Hours: 11AM - 4PM (closed Tuesdays)

Ready to discover the treasures of the seven seas, matey? The Whydah Pirate Museum will take you back to a time when pirates weren't a Halloween costume, but instead were thieves of the sea. Hear the story of how a real pirate shipwreck was discovered by treasure hunters on the coast of Cape Cod!

Not only will you be able to stock up on the pirate merch, but you'll also get to see real pirate artifacts including gold coins, pistols, and other archaeological finds once buried in Davy Jones' Locker.

Discover Pirates on the Museum Tour

Chatham Marconi Maritime Center

Address: 847 Orleans Rd, Chatham, MA

Hours

Wed - Sat: 10AM - 4:30PM
Closed Monday through Thursday

Guglielmo Marconi was always interested in science and electricity, and at the young age of 20 began experimenting with radio waves. He eventually created and demonstrated the first radio transatlantic transmission right here on the Cape. Learn the story of this revolutionary invention, which ushered in the modern era of communications!

Plan a Trip to the Center

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Historic Homes

One of the most interesting ways to experience how the people of the past lived is by visiting the spaces they inhabited and examining their journals, letters and belongings . . . we invite you step into Cape Cod's past as you cross the threshold of its historic homes!

Highland House

Address: 6 Highland Light Rd, North Truro, MA
Hours: 9AM - 7PM

This old-fashioned boarding house-turned museum is located on the bluffs of the Outer Cape. Operated by the Truro Historical Society, the Highland House Museum is a must see right next to Highland Light, Cape Cod's first lighthouse.

Tour Highland House

Swift-Daley House

Address: 2375 State Hwy, Eastham, MA
Hours: Contact the Eastham Historical Society at 508-255-0788 for times

This historic 1741 home is a 20-minute drive from Handkerchief Shoals Inn. The museum exhibits period clothing, chinaware and furnishings.

Tour Swift-Daley House

Captain Penniman House

Address: 70 Fort Hill Rd, Eastham, MA

Originally built in the 1860s, the Captain Penniman House offers a glimpse into the lives of this historically prominent family. Discover their struggles, hobbies, and lifestyle in this colorful, quaint home. Tours are only offered in summer through the Cape Cod National Seashore. Stop and have a look on your way to Fort Hill, Coast Guard Beach, or the Salt Pond Visitor Center!

Find Out Tour Times

Cape Cod Maritime Museum

Address: 135 South St, Hyannis, MA

Hours

Wed - Sat: 10AM - 4PM
Closed Sunday - Tuesday

Get an in-depth look at all of Cape Cod's most important centers of commerce and industry throughout history. Learn about the Cape Cod's culture and ecology and learn about the rugged Cape Codders who have made their living from the sea.

This museum highlights the maritime history of the Cape, and at the same time exhibits paintings and photographs of our beautiful local scenery.

Learn Our History

Coast Guard Heritage Museum

Address: 3353 Main St, Barnstable, MA

Hours

Tues - Sat: 10AM - 3PM
Closed Sunday and Monday

This museum, housed in a historic US Customs house in Barnstable, celebrates maritime history through the display of models, artifacts and exhibits highlighting the role of the Coast Guard and its legacy of service on the Cape.

Learn About the Coast Guard

Old Harbor Life-Saving Station

Address: Race Point Beach
Hours: Call in for a tour at 508-255-3421.

It takes a lot of grit, courage, and the right tools to save peoples' lives from the ocean waves. At the tip of Cape Cod National Seashore at Race Point Beach lies a museum that is dedicated to preserving the history of lifesaving on Cape Cod. After you tour the historic lifesaving station, enjoy the spectacular views on this Outer Cape beach as well (keep an eye out for whale spouts). In summer, be sure to catch the weekly demo by a group of dedicated volunteers in period costume!

Check out the Museum

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1869 Schoolhouse Museum

Address: 25 School House Rd, Eastham, MA
Hours: Call for a tour at 508-255-0788

Want to see what the average day of school looked like for a child in the 1800s? Come to the Eastham Schoolhouse Museum to find out (and don't be tardy)! The school is quite close to Swift-Daley House, so if you're making a trip out there, this schoolhouse can be a great stop as well. Right across from the Salt Pond Visitor Center!

Visit the School

Cape Cod is a wonderful place with a fascinating history. Come stay with us at Handkerchief Shoals and explore the best museums on the Cape!

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Cape Cod Hiking

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Local Fishing

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