21 Best Things To Do In Brewster Right Now (Local Secrets Revealed)

So, you’re looking for something to do in Brewster Massachusets, huh?

Great choice!

Nestled right in the heart of Cape Cod, this little gem is packed with everything from serene fishing spots to history-rich corners. Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast, a nature lover, or just someone looking to chill and soak in some culture, Brewster’s got a little something for everyone.

Now, I get it – with so much to do, where do you even start? Deep-sea fishing with the pros at Cape Cod Offshore Charters? Or maybe a step back in time at the Crosby Mansion? Decisions, decisions!

Having chatted with loads of visitors and people that live in Brewster over the years, I’ve got the inside scoop on the best spots and experiences Brewster has to offer.

Think of me as your local tour guide giving you the lowdown on where to go and what to do and if you want to live here, check out some houses for sale in Brewster.

But here’s the thing – Brewster isn’t just about ticking off activities. It’s about the stories, the people, and those little moments that make your trip unforgettable.

So, as we journey through this guide together, I hope to share not just information, but also the heart and soul of Brewster. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

1. Get Closer to nature at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

Featuring everything from aquarium tours to guided walks, the Cape Cod Museum can be your dream destination if you love nature. 

Think of it as a museum, which doubles as a sanctuary too.

Dating back to the early 1940s, the Cape Cod Museum gives you more insight into nature’s natural order of things. 

For instance, once you check into the museum, you’ll be offered a guided tour that’ll take you through various exhibitions, focusing on archaeology and animal habitats.

Speaking of habitats, this museum has an aquarium, which is filled with sea creatures and other forms of marine life that are always drawn from the nearby waters. By touring this place, you’ll learn more about the flora and fauna that are indigenous or native to this area.      

To help you identify different bird species, the museum collects and preserves a wide array of bird specimens. 

On top of that, there’s a certain room, inside the main museum building, that’s specifically reserved for bird carving demonstrations. For those who have a curious mind, visiting the Marshview Room can be quite fun and amazing. 

You’ll find a wood specialist in the exhibition room, slowly carving a piece of wood into a certain shape and form. However, you have to sit through the whole session to see the final products — most are breath-taking art pieces that look exactly like real birds.  

As a museum that focuses on nature, the Cape Cod National Museum of History sits on 80 acres of land. 

So it’s worthwhile to note that this parcel of land features bird sanctuaries, some forest cover, and nature trails.

The most popular trails in this museum are — the Herring Run, John Wing, and Lee Baldwin trails. 

Among these three trails, the John Wing trail is the most fascinating and interesting route. It cuts through marshes and woodlands, giving you clear views of beautiful landscapes and scenery. 

Plus, you’re more likely to come across ducks, ospreys, swans, and blue herons while hiking on the John Wing trail.

That’s not all, the trail stretches all the way to a huge barrier beach, which is surrounded by shallow pools. 

If you are in a jovial mood, you can play in the tidal pools, while enjoying some spectacular ocean views. 

Hiking trips and guided tours are just a few of the many activities that are offered by the museum. So don’t forget to bring your kids along during this visit. They will definitely fall in love with the museum’s Earth and Space lab. 

Designed to make learning more interesting, this room is filled with blocks and games for entertaining your kids, as they learn more about the environment and natural habitats.  

Additionally, this museum has an outdoor kids’ playing ground, popularly known as the Mud Kitchen, where kids can play with mud while building tunnels and other small structures.

2. Go On a Fishing Adventure

Packed with various fishing spots, Brewster can be a perfect destination for those who love fishing activities. 

It’s also worth mentioning that each spot is suitable for certain fishing methods. And the most popular forms of fishing are — deep sea fishing, flats fishing, and creek fishing. 

If you want to try out deep sea fishing in Brewster, consult a reputable fishing charter like the Cape Cod Offshore Charters. 

This charter focuses on tuna, striped bass, shark, and blue tuna fishing. Since this charter offers customized trips, you can easily schedule a fishing expedition, based on your availability.

Most vessels are always steered by a professional who knows all the fishing spots.  

3. Visit the Stony Brook Gristmill and Museum

Located at 830 Stony Brook Road, the Stony Brook Gristmill and Museum is a must-visit spot in Brewster. This picturesque location, complete with a shimmering brook and a charming mill, offers both scenic beauty and a rich history. The Gristmill stands as the last remaining structure from Brewster’s Factory Village, which was once a thriving 19th-century industrial hub.

During the summer, the mill opens its doors every Saturday. Here, you can witness the water wheel in action and even purchase freshly ground cornmeal. The museum on the upper floor showcases artifacts from 19th-century Cape Cod life, weaving demonstrations, and so much more. As you wander the footpaths, you might come across turtles sunbathing, herons soaring above, dragonflies dancing over the mill pond, or even spot various fish in the brook. It’s truly a serene experience.

But that’s not all! In the spring, the annual alewife migration up Stony Brook’s fish ladders is a sight to behold. This migration inspired “The Run,” a nature classic penned by John Hay. The footpaths along the brook offer an excellent viewpoint to observe these fish as they journey from Cape Cod Bay to the freshwater ponds of West Brewster for spawning.

The Gristmill and Museum are open every Saturday in July and August from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the best part? Admission is free! Plus, if you’re interested in taking a piece of the experience home, fresh cornmeal is available for purchase.

So, if you’re looking for a blend of nature, history, and culture, the Stony Brook Gristmill and Museum is a Brewster gem you shouldn’t miss.

4. Enjoy The Nightlife

Enjoy the nightlife by visiting some of the most popular joints in Brewster. If you love listening to live music, start your quest at the Woodshed bar. Local bands always play at this establishment. Plus, the joint also serves some delicious food, so you can order something while you are enjoying the live music.  

For those who love laid-back and chilled vibes, the Bayzo’s Pub might be suitable for you. You’ll get some good craft beer and cocktails. Also, don’t forget to order a meal from their food menu. Examples of such dishes include barbecue chicken wings, fried Cod tacos, and American Wagyu sliders.

5. Take a swim at Breakwater Beach

If you want to have fun on a sunny summer day, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, add Breakwater Beach to your list!

Grab your swimming gear and go to Breakwater Beach. While this beach is rather small, it’s not as crowded as other small beaches in this town. 

That said, it’s worth noting that Breakwater Beach is also a nice spot for kids. You can easily watch over your kids, as they are swimming, without losing sight of them. 

Speaking of swimming, the tide rises and falls during different time periods. If you are planning to swim, the best time to visit the beach is between 9 AM and 12.30 PM, during a high tide.

In the evening hours, you’ll find a low tide. The beach will be so exposed, making it easier for you to explore the foreshore and the backshore.

As you are walking on the beach during a low tide, you might spot some fascinating marine creatures such as crabs and other small fish. 

Apart from that, you can also collect shells from exposed sections of the beach — they can improve your home’s interior decor.  

Every once in a while, an ice cream truck passes quite close to the beach. If you are someone who adores ice cream, you should be on the lookout when you are at the beach.  

6. Shop at the Lemon Tree Village Shops 

Check out some of the products that are offered at the Lemon Tree Village Shops. This is a sanctuary for artists and vendors, from different parts of the world such as Europe and Asia. 

It’s made up of different shops — Cafe Alfresco, Brewster Birdhouse, The Cook Shop, The Sanctuary, Lemon Tree Pottery, Tracy Lamperti, The Bays Design, and Village Toy Store.

For starters, the Brewster Birdhouse packs a wide array of interesting accessories such as binoculars, feeders, and some birdhouses. If you are planning to go on a bird-watching expedition, make a stop at this shop.

Those who have a sweet tooth will ove The Brewster Sweets shop. You’ll find sugar-free chocolates, fudges, penny candies, nuts, you name it.

And that’s not all. 

The Bay Designs shop is another interesting shop that might be worth your time. It specializes in decorative jewelry, paintings, and gifts. Think of it as a shop that deals with products that can be turned into souvenirs.  

7. Watch amazing performances at the Cape Rep Theatre

Immerse yourself in a memorable theatrical experience by visiting the Cape Rep Theatre!

The good thing about this theatre is that it deals with a wide variety of plays and shows, 

which are ideal for different age groups — both kids and adults. Some of the most notable plays include Billy Eliot, New Brain Peter, and The Starcatcher. 

Featuring an outdoor and indoor theater, this spot offers you a wide variety of options to choose from, based on your personal theatrical preferences. However, the management team changes the main performance venue, from one season to the next. 

For example, from May to December, most plays and shows are often exhibited inside the indoor theater. 

The outdoor theater, on the other hand, operates from January to early May. But, it features daytime and night schedules, specifically planned for different audiences. During the daytime, the outdoor theater is always used to exhibit shows and plays, preferred by a younger audience — kids below a certain age. 

Once the sun sets, various artists and actors usually take the stage, immersing you in a whole new experience through well-orchestrated plays, which are suitable for older audiences. According to the Cape Rep Theatre, this nighttime outdoor concept gives you an ‘under the stars’ theatrical experience.

Without a doubt, watching theatrical plays in an outdoor setup, when the sky is full of shining stars, can be quite thrilling.

8. Winding down at Nickerson State Park 

The Nickerson State Park is a haven for naturalists and those who love winding down in peaceful environments.

It sits on 1900 acres of land, packed with woodlands, nature trails, and campsites.

Whether you are planning to have fun on a biking expedition, camping expedition, and hiking expedition, the Nickerson State Park has everything you need to have a good time. 

For example, if you want to blow some steam by riding a bike, you can look for a reliable bike rental shop, and then hire a bike that’ll help you tour the park.

You can start your expedition on the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Well, a certain stretch of the Cape Cod Rail trail links with one of the bike trails that cuts through Nickerson State Park. 

It’s also worthwhile to note that the main bike trail stretches 8 miles into the park. Not to mention, it gives you access to multiple sections of Nickerson Park, such as the Maple Swamp and Cranberry Bog trails.

Besides that, the Nickerson State Park gives you access to 400 campsites, making it easier for you to find a site in a quiet and serene spot, which suits you most.    

That’s not all, multiple campsites are surrounded by water bodies such as ponds and kettle ponds. And camping next to water bodies can be quite therapeutic. 

To keep you comfortable during your stay, this place features essential facilities such as dump stations, washrooms, and bathrooms. 

9. Pick up some glassware from the Sydenstricker Glass Gallery

Going way back to the ’60s, the Sydenstricker Glass Gallery is popularly known for its decorative pieces, which are characterized by unique patterns and art.

By visiting this gallery, you’ll get a chance to analyze multiple artistic glass pieces. Not to mention, you might find a set that complements your own cutlery.

While most glassware have interesting patterns, a few pieces may feature some artistic drawings that are inspired by Cape Cod’s natural elegance.

For instance, you might come across glassware that has some beautiful flower drawings. 

That’s not all.

Other glass pieces also have drawings of animals and creatures that are found in Cape Cod such as dragonfish and starfish.

10. Hiking on nature trails 

Challenge yourself by hiking on some of the trails that are found in Brewster. While hiking makes it easier for you to explore new places, you’ll also exercise while trekking from one point to the next.

The most popular hiking trails are found in Cliff Pond and Forest Hill, Eddy Bay, and Nickerson State Park. So grab your hiking boots and tour some of the most scenic sites in Brewster!

11. Tour the Crosby Mansion

Ever been fascinated by ancient history?

If that’s the case, be sure to visit the Crosby Mansion.   

Dating back to the 1800s, this mansion has a rich history, which gives you insight into the past eras. 

Since the first owners loved traveling, they borrowed various design concepts from European countries such as England and France.

Such concepts were implemented during the design and construction phase of this mansion. The end product was an architectural masterpiece that featured various architectural styles. 

This mansion will not only give a quick glance of the past but will also spark a few ideas that’ll challenge your architectural preferences.  

For example, this mansion’s parlor looks exactly like the parlor, which is found in the Palace of Versailles. 

And that’s just one of the many rooms that have a rich architectural style.

As you tour the house, various interior elements will definitely capture your attention. Examples of such features include well-maintained mahogany walls, marble baths, and tiled fireplaces.

Just like the first owners of this house, you can also borrow a few architectural concepts from the Crosby Mansion and incorporate them in your office or home.

12. Catch a Sunset at Paine’s Creek Beach

If you are a sucker for beautiful sunsets, you need to visit Paine’s Creek Beach during Summer and Spring. As you are watching beautiful sunsets, you’ll also spot multiple birds flying around the beach. Not to mention, a few sections of this beach are covered with golden seagrass — an extra vegetative cover that makes the place more stunning.   

Also, don’t forget to take some sunset pictures. Such pictures will always remind you of the beautiful beaches and the sunset experiences in Brewster.

13. Shopping at Wisteria Antiques

Get yourself something nice at the Wisteria Antique shop and use it to improve your home’s decor. 

The good thing about this store is that it offers you garden and home accessories. 

Apart from that, the staff set ups showrooms in multiple spaces, using different antiques to give you home decor ideas.

Some of the home accessories that you’ll find in this shop include furniture, mirrors, books, chandeliers, upholstery, you name it.

When it comes to garden accessories, Wisteria Antiques features everything from boxwoods, pots, garden benches, to topiaries.

This shop also has an exhibition garden, which is packed with gardening furniture, plants, and other garden accessories.

14. Challenge yourself by playing golf at the Ocean Edge Golf Club 

This place has an 18-hole golf course, with varying elevations that’ll give you an amazing time. If you want to rest while playing golf, the terrace might be your best bet. It gives you an amazing view of the ocean, making it easier for you to relax. You can also order some drinks and food while you are at it. 

Since Ocean Edge Golf Club doubles as a resort too, it features two swimming pools. Anyone who’s in the mood for swimming can have fun in one of those two pools.  

15. Ride horses as you enjoy beautiful nature sightings at the Emerald Hollow Farm 

If you have never ridden a horse, you should visit the Emerald Hollow Farm.

Horse Riding is a fun and therapeutic activity.

You’ll find instructors who’ll teach you everything about horse riding. Since this farm takes care of countless horses, you’ll also get the chance to interact with these magnificent creatures. 

Not to mention, instructors will show you how to calm a horse and how to pet a horse. Well, most horses are quite friendly, so you’ll have an easy time, even if you are not used to horses.

Once you learn the basics, the instructors will give you the go-ahead to ride a horse on the nearby trails. 

16. Paddleboarding 

Paddleboarding is a great way of getting closer to nature while exploring new places. One of the most popular paddleboarding charters in Brewster is the SUPfari Adventures. For starters, this charter will deliver your paddlebaord rental for free in Brewster and the have guides who can train and teach you the necessary skills, which are required to paddle through uncharted waters. 

The full-moon paddle-boarding tour is one of their most interesting packages. If you opt for this option, the guides will offer you glowing paddleboards, and then give you a tour through different water bodies at night.

Such tours are always done during the full moon season. As you paddle through water bodies, you’ll see the moon’s reflection on the water — this can be quite relaxing. 

17. Try out healing therapies at The Sanctuary

Rejuvenate your body by trying out some of the treatments that are offered by The Sanctuary. The establishment offers yoga classes, making it easier for you to relieve physical tension built up in your body. 

The Sanctuary also has an infrared Sauna that helps you relax by alleviating body pains. 

Besides that, you’ll also meet professionals who offer reiki healing and physical therapy. You can seek help if you want to wind down. Not to mention, such therapy treatments complement each other and are quite good for the body. 

Since this is a healing sanctuary, it specializes in spiritual healing too. Some of the spiritual healing services that are offered here include parrot and psychic readings. If you are interested in spiritual healing, try out some of the packages that are offered in this sanctuary.    

18. Cape Cod Rail Trail

Take a ride on the Cape Cod Rail Trail as you explore the beautiful landscape and the surrounding scenery. 

A certain section of this trail extends all the way to Nickerson State Park. 

At Nickerson State Park, this trail joins with other minor trails, making it easier for you to explore various sections of the park. Examples of such trails include Eddy Sisters, Huckleberry Hill, Mother’s Bog, Eddy Bay, John & Kristy Hay, and Eddy Bay trails.

19. Dine in some of the local restaurants

Packed with a wide variety of restaurants that serve different cuisines, Brewster has amazing restaurants and is the perfect town for food lovers!

Our #1 recommendation is the Brewster Fish House simply because it serves delicious food that’ll leave you licking your fingers. But the most interesting thing about this restaurant is that it changes its menu every single season to offer you an amazing experience.

Don’t forget to try the lobster, fish chowders, and dry-aged steaks. This restaurant also serves some amazing cocktails, thanks to the amazing mixologists.  

While those two restaurants serve some delicious food, you should also visit other restaurants such as Spinnaker’s or JT’s Seafood.  

20. Loosen up at the Harbor Lights Mini Golf & Ice Cream

The Harbour Lights Mini Golf is the perfect destination for families that want to loosen up and have some fun. Located in a very scenic environment, this joint helps you relax while you are playing golf. 

Not to mention, the management team also plays some entertaining music, immersing you in a whole new experience. 

That’s not all, this place also has amazing ice cream — so don’t forget to order your favorite flavor. 

21. Go Birdwatching 

Brewster has water bodies and beautiful vegetation, which easily attracts different types of birds. Such birds can be found in scenic sites and trails such as the Lee Baldwin Loop and Eagle Point Blue Trail.

Besides that, the Eastham Flat is home to thousands of birds. It stretches from Quivett Creek, all the way to Eastham. Examples of some of the birds that you might find in such areas include Dunlins, black-bellied plovers, and sanderlings.

And here’s the thing — bird sightings can get you much closer to nature.

What Will You Decide To Do In Brewster?

Well, Brewster is a town, which has a lot of interesting spots. Nature lovers, explorers, and food lovers will find something that sparks their interests. Be sure to visit some of the places that you find interesting. 

For instance, if you want to immerse yourself in an amazing camping experience, the Nickerson State Park might be your best bet. You can hike on some of the trails that are found in Nickerson State Park during your stay.

You should also visit other interesting places such as the Lemon Tree Village Shops, Wisteria Antiques, Emerald Horse Farm, you name it.