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Things to do in a day in Brewster

Jennie Sparrow | 2/26/2020

The quaint, quintessential New England town of Brewster is the perfect Cape Cod place to spend a summer day. With its numerous and tranquil bay beaches, one-of-a-kind, small town shops, and a host of outdoor-friendly activities, you’re sure to enjoy everything this town has to offer!

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Crosby Beach in Brewster.

Brewster Beaches

Brewster is home to many beaches. Ten bay beaches offer calm waters and are perfect for swimming, and the miles of “flats” that appear when the tide goes out are a beachcomber’s paradise. Be sure to bring a pail, shovel, and net, as there are plenty of sea creatures and beach treasures to be found! Rinse off the salt water at one of the several fresh water lakes in the area. Long Pond, the Cape’s largest fresh water pond, has a dock for jumping and diving, and more lakes and ponds are in Nickerson State Park, reachable by car or the famed Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Shopping

If you find yourself in need of a break from the beach, head over to the Lemon Tree Village Shops located on Route 6A. There you will find a well-stocked gourmet cook shop, a lovely and unique clothes boutique, an American and Native American pottery shop, as well as other shops selling birdhouses, outdoor décor, and even a candy store! While in town, be sure to stop into the beloved Brewster Book Store! In business for over 35 years, this local favorite offers a wide range of children’s books, best-sellers, books from local authors, and hosts book signings and author visits. One must-see on your trip to Brewster is the iconic Brewster Store, a general store since 1866. A visit to this gem will spark nostalgic feelings as you choose penny candy from large jars (be sure to add up what you get as you go!), grab bags of freshly roasted peanuts, and view old ephemera décor throughout. A special delight? The music from the old nickelodeon!

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Heading out on the John Wing Trail at the Museum of Natural History in Brewster.

Hiking and Biking

Brewster offers many ways to enjoy the Cape Cod outdoors. For starters, you can get your exercise by biking, walking, running or inline skating the Cape Cod Rail Trail. What once held railroad tracks now holds over 22 miles of paved path that winds through the towns of Yarmouth, Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet. If biking isn’t your thing, visit the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History to learn about Brewster’s natural life. Visit winged creatures in the butterfly house and shake hands with starfish at the touch pool while learning all about the natural history of the area. While at the museum, be sure to take the John Wing Trail to Wing Island and hike through the marsh, woods and beach!

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Delicious fried food fare from JT’s Seafood in Brewster.

Food

You won’t go hungry when visiting the town of Brewster! There are several “seafood shacks” dotting Main Street, from fried seafood and burgers to ice cream. Kate’s Seafood, JT’s Seafood, and Cobie’s offer a little something for everyone! Brewster Pizza House and Sports Bar is a tried and true staple in the area, and if you want a more upscale pizza experience, try Stone L’Oven off Underpass Road. If you’re looking for fine dining, you’re sure to find amazing seafood dishes at the Brewster Fish House, and try Chillingsworth for more gourmet fare. Exquisite, French baked treats can be found at Eat Cake 4 Breakfast Bakery (don’t mind if we do!) and a visit to the immensely popular Snowy Owl Coffee Roasters coffee house is a MUST!

One thing is certain—when visiting the town of Brewster, your day is sure to be packed full of fun! With sand between your toes, and salt air in your nose, you will definitely enjoy a visit to this laid back town!