Few people know that the pilgrims first struck land in Provincetown, on November 21, 1620, before continuing on to Plymouth. While anchored in Provincetown Harbor, the Pilgrims signed the Mayflower Compact, dedicating themselves to a community governed by democratic rule. This tower was built in 1910 to commemorate that landing, was modeled after the clock tower of the Palazzo Pubblico (specifically the Torre del Mangia) in Siena, Italy. A climb to the top affords one of the best views on the entire Cape, and the tower also incorporates the Provincetown Museum.
In 1914 Eugene O'Neill and others formed the Provincetown Players. In 1915 they converted a fish house into The Wharf Theatre, and Provincetown became a thriving art colony. Famous actors of the past like Max Eastman and Ann Harding performed with the Players, as did Richard Gere and Jill Clayburgh in more modern times. The theater was lost in a fire but the tradition continues with the work of the Provincetown Theater Company and the Provincetown Repertory Theatre. They hold an annual competition for emerging playwrights.
Provincetown, one of the most scenic towns on Cape Cod, is a treasure trove of culture, art, and history. The Pilgrims made their first New World landing here, and the historic Mayflower Compact was written and signed just off the coast. Later, an artists' colony began to flourish, attracting the intellectual elite and resulting in the establishment of many artistic and literary institutions. Today, Provincetown thrives as a cultural center and vacation destination and offers much in the way of leisure and exploration. Be it museums, historic landmarks, or the sun-dappled beaches that elevate its touristic appeal, plenty of memorable experiences await visitors. Also popular with the LGBTQ+ community, and with something new brewing each season, Provincetown makes for an exhilarating visit.
Famously known as the Cape Cod Light, the Highland Light is an active lighthouse and also said to be the tallest and oldest lighthouse on Cape Cod. The lighthouse is accessible to the public from May through October- tours are available too, while the grounds can be visited throughout the year. This lighthouse occupies a spot on the National Register of Historic Places as the Highland Light Station.
This brick tower is not remarkable for its architecture; it does, however, have a great view. Located on top of the 160-foot (50-meter) Scargo Hill in Dennis (the highest point on the Cape), a clear day allows views of the Provincetown Monument and mainland Massachusetts. In almost any weather condition you can see Scargo Lake, which was named after a Native American princess. You may find it a romantic spot too, especially for sunsets and star gazing.
This living museum recreates Plymouth as it was in 1627, and does a great job at separating fact from the enduring (and completely inaccurate) legend of the First Thanksgiving. Historians and curators have paid great attention to detail, from the street plans to furniture, tools, and cooking equipment. Specially bred 17th-century livestock occupies the barns and pastures, and trained reenactors and artisans demonstrate how life was lived among the Pilgrims. In addition to information on the European colonists, visitors can find information on the Native American population at Hobbamock's Homesite. Hobbamock, a Wampanoag Indian, lived with his family in Plymouth from 1621-1641, as part of a peace treaty agreement. The plantation is open seasonally.
Situated at the tip of the Cape Cod, the Long Point Light House was marked as an entrance to the harbor. Standing 36 feet high, the light of this lighthouse goes up to 15 miles and is of great help to those in the sea.
Schoolhouse Gallery is a popular local gallery that's the hub of the city's contemporary art. The gallery represents local, national, and international artists and exhibits beautiful paintings, prints, photographs, sculptures, and other beautiful artworks. The gallery puts on excellent and thought-provoking exhibitions that showcase the tremendous history and culture of the city. This gallery definitely deserves a visit when in the city.
The Captain Bangs Hallet House Musuem has been established so that people can witness the 19th-century lifestyle of sea captain, Captain Bangs Hallet. The historic house encompasses the study, the dining room, the parlors and the bedrooms which have been retained in such a way to make you feel a part of the family. Besides, one can also admire the artifacts and displayed items associated with the Civil War and with the rich Yarmouth history. For details, do visit their website.
The Cape Rep Indoor Theater is the perfect place to enjoy some beautiful regional performances and plays. This quaint little indoor theater offers patrons an intimate theater experience and features excellent sound and light systems along with comfortable seating and an unobstructed view of the stage. The theater usually produces five plays per season with plenty of exciting shows for children. This theater definitely is one of the best in the city and, if you're lucky enough to be in town during a show, do not hesitate to stop by but be sure to book your seats in advance.
Josiah Dennish House was built in 1736 for Rev. Josiah Dennis who was a minister of the East Yarmouth Parish for 38 years. Here in this 2 and half storey building shaped in a saltbox style, with wooden frames and construction, showcases artifacts of Josiah. There is a children's room, an exhibit room showcasing spinning and weaving, lush gardens and a maritime wing. There is also a school on the grounds as education was considered pivotal by the residents of Dennis. And with this objective, 12 small schoolhouses were constructed, with specific academic months set for junior and senior school students.