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.
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.
Old Harbor Life-Saving Museum is an ode to a historic rescue station which helped save the lives of over 100,000 people during disastrous times. Volunteers called surf-men were enlisted to light a fire as soon as they spotted a ship which seemed to be lost at sea. They would send small boats out into the sea for the rescue operation, or tie a line and pull each crew member to the shore. In the present day, the museum staff re-enact the rescue operation to the delight of visitors.
Cape Cod's third lighthouse, Race Point Light was constructed in 1816. The original rubblestone tower was one of the first to feature a revolving beacon, and after significant refurbishment in 1876, was electrified in the year 1957. Today, the lighthouse is open to visitors who can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area. The lighthouse is located within the Cape Cod National Seashore and is surrounded by miles of beautiful sandy beaches and scenic walking trails. It is considered one of the most picturesque lighthouses on Cape Cod and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the region's maritime history.
This lighthouse first started operations in the year 1872. Initially lit using a kerosene lamp, the light house was automated in 1961. Guiding ships even today, this historic structure functions on solar energy in the present day. It has a light house near it and sits on an open land with no other buildings in the area. Listed in the National Register of Historic places, visitors need to go through a short hike to reach this scenic spot.
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.
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.
Old Harbor Life-Saving Museum is an ode to a historic rescue station which helped save the lives of over 100,000 people during disastrous times. Volunteers called surf-men were enlisted to light a fire as soon as they spotted a ship which seemed to be lost at sea. They would send small boats out into the sea for the rescue operation, or tie a line and pull each crew member to the shore. In the present day, the museum staff re-enact the rescue operation to the delight of visitors.
Nauset Beach Light is a cast iron plate shell situated in Eastham, Massachusetts. Built in 1877, it stands 48 feet (15 meters) tall and has a rather long and interesting history behind it. Saved from decommissioning by the Nauset Light Preservation Society, formed by the local residents, the lighthouse was donated to the National Park Service in 1998. For those who visit the top, the view from the lighthouse is absolutely stunning, but tours are not as frequently conducted, so make sure to check the timings before you visit.
Cape Cod's third lighthouse, Race Point Light was constructed in 1816. The original rubblestone tower was one of the first to feature a revolving beacon, and after significant refurbishment in 1876, was electrified in the year 1957. Today, the lighthouse is open to visitors who can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area. The lighthouse is located within the Cape Cod National Seashore and is surrounded by miles of beautiful sandy beaches and scenic walking trails. It is considered one of the most picturesque lighthouses on Cape Cod and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the region's maritime history.
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.