Things to do in the fall on Cape Cod

It’s no secret that the fall season is a favorite among Cape Codders. The weather is crisp and cool, autumn colors grace the marshes and trees, and the crowds are vastly diminished. Contrary to what a lot of people believe, the Cape and Islands do not “close down” after the summer is over. Things just slow down, and we get a chance to take a deep breath and take in the beauty that is around us. Here are a couple “gems” that can easily be enjoyed in the calmer fall months.

Scenic Views

View from Bearberry Hill in Truro

The short, but steep, climb up Bearberry Hill in Truro overlooks the Atlantic and the glacial terrain of the Pamet River valley. The majestic view here is sure to take your breath away!

View from Scargo Tower in Dennis

Scargo Tower in Dennis offers some magnificent views, especially with the changing leaves.

Provincetown Dunes right off Rt 6A

The Provincetown Dunes located right off 6A on your way into Provincetown offer magnificent views of rolling dunes and the ocean (after a little dune climbing!) This spot is not to be missed!

Nature Walks

John Wing Trail in Brewster

The John Wing Trail, located at the Cape Cod Natural History Museum in Brewster, offers a microcosm of the Cape Cod landscape. The walk includes a boardwalk through a salt marsh and bird-filled woodland trails that go right onto the beach of Cape Cod Bay.

The Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary of East Falmouth is known for its 1,000 holly trees as well as a plethora of migratory birds and five vernal pools—definitely worth seeing before the winter months!

Fall Activities

If you ever find yourself over on the island of Nantucket with a few hours to spare, be sure to take a tour of Cisco Brewers. They are not only a beer brewery but a winery and distillery as well! (Confirm tour times before going, however, as tours are given only on the weekend in the off-season.)

Truro Vineyards

On a sunny fall day, be sure to stop by Truro Vineyards. The views are beautiful and the wine, produced by the “pioneers of the art of maritime grape growing on the Cape,” is intense in flavor.

Orpheum Theater in Chatham

Finding yourself without anything to do on a cold and rainy evening in the fall? Head over to the recently reconstructed Chatham Orpheum Theater, now a non-profit community cinema. Catch one of the latest flicks while munching on some chicken wings, meatball sliders and a beverage (even beer and wine!) from the comfort of your theater seat.

Eating

Hanger B Eatery, Chatham

Located right in the Chatham Municipal Airport, hangarB has fast become a local breakfast and lunch favorite. Using fresh, local ingredients, they serve the classics alongside some amazing creative dishes—the Red Flannel Hash and Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are to die for! There are goodies for all, even for picky children or people restricted to a gluten-free diet. They do not take reservations, so get there early or be prepared to wait (which is totally worth it!)

Another amazing “gem” is Stir Crazy, located in Pocassett.

Photos courtesy of Stir Crazy

This Cambodian food treasure has some incredible dishes that will satisfy anyone’s taste buds. Their deliciously marinated steak with lemongrass sauce is just bursting with flavor. Not to be missed are their many stir-fry dishes and Bar Bong — mmmmm good!