The Best Things To Do In Yarmouth

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

Yarmouth is one of the most beautiful towns in Cape Cod, with tons of place to eat and activities that you can indulge in. If the sun is out and you don’t have a busy schedule, you can visit one of the beaches and swim in the salty waters. 

Since the town has beautiful conservation areas, it attracts birds such as tree sparrows, sanderlings, eastern towhees, and rusty blackbirds. As a result, it becomes much easier to view different species of birds flying across beautiful scenery.  

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Yarmouth is the home of ancient and historic artifacts, dating back to the 18th and 17th centuries. If you visit the town, you’ll get a chance to interact with real-life historic pirate ships and treasures, which were discovered along Cape Cod. 

In this post, we are going to give you an insight into the best things to do while in Yarmouth, making it easier for you to know where to find the fun! 

Here are the 21 best things to do while in Yarmouth.

1. Go fishing

Bass River Fishing Charters

Going on a fishing trip can be quite thrilling if you want to improve or hone your fishing skills. 

Whether you are a beginner or an expert at fishing, you can learn a lot by fishing in a new territory. 

The fishing territory that’s close to Cape Cod has different types of fish, making it easier for you to catch something that you’ve never caught before. Examples of the most popular fish species in Cape Cod include yellow fish tuna, white marlin, bluefin tuna, and sea bass.     

If you are a beginner, you should look for instructors to guide you. And the good thing is, Yarmouth has a lot of fishing charters such as Bass River Charters, that can take you on a fishing trip around Cape Cod. Plus, most fishing charters always offer you high-quality fishing gear, saving you from the trouble of buying new gear.

If you don’t want to go on a deep-sea fishing trip, try out fresh-water fishing — the Bass River is suitable for such activities. If you don’t know the Bass River connects to the ocean and was actually used during prohibition to smuggle alcohol, which is why the beach that is there is known as “Smugglers Beach“.

2. Rent an E-bike from Pedego Electric Bikes

Pedego Electric Bikes

Pedego Electric Bikes is a locally-owned store where you’ll be treated like family. They are the Cape’s foremost electric bike experts offering sales, rentals, accessories, and service. Pedego® stands for premium quality and local service.

This is a great place to experience your first e-bike riding experience. The staff is awesome at explaining how to use them and will make sure you are 100% comfortable before taking off. They will even give you maps to make sure you get where you are going without getting lost. Once you complete your training and waivers, you can take off on a beautiful ride on the Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Stop by and try a Pedego. Once you ride a Pedego, this will definitely become a tradition!

3. Ride a bike on Cape Cod Rail Trail 

Cape Cod Rail Trail

Stretching from Wellfleet town to Yarmouth, the Cape Cod Rail Trail is one of the most reliable routes for bike/e-bike riding, and jogging. Unlike other rocky trails, the top surface of Cape Cod Rail Trail is paved with fine aggregates to give you a smooth ride.

The trail passes through multiple locations, with beautiful scenery and breathtaking views, bringing you much closer to nature as you are cycling. 

If you start your trip in Yarmouth, the Peter Homer Memorial Park will be one of the few places where you’ll pass by while heading north. 

Since it’s surrounded by a lot of trees and vegetation, the memorial park will give you a taste of the scenic views that awaits you. 

When you are just a few miles from Harwich, you’ll come across kettle ponds and some freshwater bodies. It’s always advisable to stop for a few minutes and observe the beautiful scenery — taking time to appreciate nature can be quite satisfying and therapeutic. 

If you stick to the trail and head north, the scenery will start changing. And in no time, you’ll arrive at Nickerson state park, a popular destination amongst Cape Cod’s nature enthusiasts. It is a large woodland area with multiple freshwater ponds, kettle ponds, and camping sites. 

4. Go for a swim at Parkers River Beach

Going for a swim on a hot sunny Summer day can be quite relaxing and rejuvenating.

Without a doubt, Parkers Rivers Beach is one of the most scenic beaches in Yarmouth. For starters, it’s located next to private-owned beaches, so it doesn’t have so many visitors as compared to other beaches. 

You can easily find a spot to set your canopy tent before you go for a swim. 

The beach is also a good escape for families and kids who love outdoor activities. The sand is super clean, and kids can build sand castles and other structures too. If, by any chance, kids don’t want to play with the sand, they can go to the kid’s playground. 

Speaking of which, the playground has everything a kid could ever dream of — rocking rides, swings, climbing frames, you name it. 

And if you are a foodie, you’ll definitely appreciate some of the food joints that are close to Parkers River. To keep you entertained, local bands and musicians always organize a beach concert on Mondays, from 6.00 PM – 7:00 PM. 

5. Take an evening walk at the Bass boardwalk and watch the sunset at Gray’s Beach 

Bass boardwalk and watch the sunset at Gray’s Beach

For those who live in big cities, taking a stroll on a peaceful boardwalk can be a dream come true. A boardwalk stroll soothes your soul and gets you into the moment.  

Fortunately, Gray’s Beach has one of the most stunning boardwalks in Cape Cod. The boardwalk is surrounded by marshes and swamps, bringing you closer to nature than ever before. And the sunset views from the boardwalk are something to die for! 

Well, since the boardwalk faces the west, it gives you a clear view of sunsets. 

So, to get the best out of this visit, you should take an evening walk on the boardwalk, when the sky is not so cloudy. Also, don’t forget to capture the sunsets — you’ll thank yourself later on.    

Moreover, the boardwalk steps are imprinted with names and sweet phrases which can uplift your spirits. 

Planning tip: Use a weather forecasting application to check the weather conditions. You’ll get a better sunset view when the sky is clear, especially during the golden hour.

Speaking of which, the sunset golden hour is between 5.30 PM to 6.30 PM. During the golden hour, the sun shines with a beautiful orangish glow that is complemented by shadows. You should arrive at the beach a few minutes before the golden hour — at around 4.45 PM.  

6. Loosen up and participate in physical activities at Inflatable Park

Inflatable Park

When it comes to kids’ activities, nothing beats the dry and wet inflatable rides that are offered at Inflatable Park. And if you are an adult, you don’t have to be bored all day just because the place is packed with kids. 

Loosen up a little bit and relive your youth by participating in fun activities, just like kids. Well, if you can’t beat them, join them!

Packed with so many inflatables and courses, Inflatable Park has activities, which are suitable for adults, too. For instance, the challenge zone is made up of inflatable rock-climbing walls and obstacles that will challenge your body.

You can try out the trapeze swing if you want to get an adrenaline rush. It’s also worthwhile to note that Inflatable Park is in the same location as Wicked Waves Water Park, making it easier for you to participate in water activities. 

Lifesavers are always on the lookout for any accidents that may occur, minimizing the risks of water-related accidents.  

Also, if you are planning to relax and wind down, throw a pool seat into the artificial stream and enjoy the views.

7. Play golf at Skull Island Adventure Golf & Sports World

Skull Island Adventure Golf & Sports World

Add this gem to your list if you love sports activities. Featuring an 18-course mini golf course, Skull Island Adventure Golf & Sports World is the perfect place for winding down with golf. And that’s not all. This sports center has a golf driving range where you can practice your swing or showcase your skills.  

Designed to be an age-inclusive sports center, Skull Island Adventure Golf & Sports World also offers kids activities such as go-karting and arcade games. Speaking of arcade games, you can bond with your family members while playing such games — they are suitable for both adults and kids. Examples of such arcade games include ice ball and air hockey.

8. Visit Whydah Pirate Museum 

Whydah Pirate Museum 

For those who have an adventurous spirit, the Whydah Museum might be a suitable destination for you. It is the home of antiques and ships that belonged to real-life pirates. Once you visit this museum, you’ll come across artifacts, which are similar to the ones that were featured in Pirates of the Caribbean

The museum was named after a pirate ship, Whydah Gally, which sank close to the present-day Cape Cod National Seashore. But, in the 20th century, the shipwreck was found along Cape Cod’s seashore, and it was pulled out of the water. And as a result, real-life pirate treasures such as coins and pirate loot are now stored and exhibited at Whydah Pirate Museum. 

While such treasures are really mind-blowing, getting a chance to see a real-life pirate ship can be quite thrilling. The museum has a film that helps you understand how a normal ship was attacked and converted into a pirate ship. You’ll be immersed in a historical experience, which gives more insight into the pirate ship.   

On top of that, a section of Whydah Gally was reconstructed, so that the public can interact with some of the things that were found on the pirate ship.   

9. Paddle through multiple stretches of The Bass River in a kayak 

Thanks to various kayak tour companies, you can go on a kayaking expedition in Yarmouth. One of the most favorable waterways for kayaking is the Bass River — it’s surrounded by beautiful scenery and different bird species. And if you are lucky enough, you might across Blue Herons, Egrets, and Ospreys.

Since the river flows through flat terrains, you’ll have an easy time paddling from one point to another, even if you are not used to it. Apart from that, the flow of the Bass River changes, depending on the oceanic tides. This makes it easier for you to paddle to different spots and back to Yarmouth. 

Speaking of which, the 6-mile-long waterway has multiple exploration sites, coves, and saltwater ponds. But, such exploration sites are found on different stretches of river, so you have to keep paddling for a long period of time to come across such sites.

For instance, the West Dennis neighborhood, which is made up of various boat homes, is located next to the river’s mouth.    

10. Visit the Cultural Center of Cape Cod 

The Cultural Center of Cape Cod

The Cultural Center of Cape Cod is where you’ll find everything that’s related to arts, music, poetry, and exhibition. It has gorgeous exhibition spaces that are complemented by beautiful art pieces. Speaking of artwork, the cultural center is quite inclusive and exhibits different cultural artwork, making it easier for you to get some insight into different cultures. 

Moreover, if you want to try out something new, you should consider taking some of the classes that are offered by art instructors. The Cultural Center of Cape Cod has various instructors who specialize in painting, pottery, ceramics, and photography. You can work on a piece of artwork, and then take it home as a souvenir. 

Since it is open to music genres from all over the world, the Cultural Center of Cape Cod hosts music events regularly, giving you a taste of different music genres. By attending one of these events, you’ll get a chance to experience live music from string quartets and pianists. 

Planning tip: Visit their official website to get an insight into upcoming events. 

11. Take a walk on Seagull Beach and collect sea shells while watching beautiful creatures

Seagull Beach Sea Shells

Seagull Beach is very large and has enough space for beach activities and other undertakings. The good thing about this place is that you can take a peaceful walk without bumping into so many people. 

As the name hints, Seagull Beach is one of the few places where you can spot many seagulls in one location. Seagulls are always attracted to this beach by sea shells that drift ashore. And since it is packed with so many seashells, It might be an ideal destination for you if you love collecting sea shells. 

The beach also attracts other beautiful creatures such as butterflies and dragonflies, giving you a chance to reconnect with nature and relax.

12. Go for an exhibition at Edward Gorey’s House

Edward Gorey’s House

If you have a thing for fashion and style, attend one of the exhibitions that will be held in Edward Gorey’s house

Popular due to his costume designs, Edward Gorey was a talented artist who loved drawing well-dressed gothic characters. Some of the characters he drew were dressed like Dracula. In the 20th century, Edward Gorey bought a home in Yarmouth that was later converted into a museum after he passed away. 

Most of the things that were left in the house were preserved and are now exhibited. However, exhibitions are only held from April to December. So, if you find yourself in Yarmouth during those few months, add this destination to your list. 

You’ll get a chance to see some of the gothic characters that Edward Gorey worked on. The house is also filled with gothic costumes that were designed by Edward Gorey. 

13. Play golf and recreate scenes from your favorite pirates movie at Pirates Cove

Pirates Cove

Pirate Cove is a pirate-themed golf course with 18 holes, which are evenly spread out on a rather hilly terrain, to make things more interesting. Designed around a well-planned landscape with waterfalls and caves, the golf course immerses you in a challenging and exciting golfing experience. 

Not to mention, it was strategically constructed close to waterways, surrounded by a lot of greenery, to bring you closer to nature as you play golf. There’s nothing more satisfying than playing golf on a well-shaded course, especially on a hot summer day. 

As a pirate-themed sports center, Pirates Cove lets you recreate various scenes from your favorite pirate movies using different pieces of artwork.

The place is packed with different artwork pieces that can easily capture your attention. 

And once you walk into the golf course, your attention will be captured by huge pirate ships, which are anchored on different water channels. 

And since ships can’t operate smoothly without their captains, this place also has sculptures of the most popular captains. Examples of such pirates include Jack Sparrow and Black Beard.

You’ll also come across treasure boxes, hidden on walkways and water channels.

14. Play some arcade games or go bowling at Ryan’s Family Amusement

Ryan’s Family Amusement

Anyone who loves playing arcade games will be delighted to go to Ryan’s Family Amusements Arcade. The place has some of the most exciting multi-player games, making it easier for you to compete with your family members and friends.

A good example of an exciting game is the VR rollercoaster game, which takes you on a virtual roller coaster ride. It recreates everything that happens on a roller-coaster ride and can be easily confused with the real thing.  

Besides that, this arcade has bowling alleys, which are designed for ten-pin bowling and candlepin bowling. So, you can either play ten-pin bowling or candlepin bowling, depending on your personal preferences.

15. Visit Yarmouth History Center

Yarmouth History Center

By visiting Yarmouth’s History Center, you’ll get more insight into the town’s history. The historical center has historical books and educational media, detailing everything that happened, from the 17th century to the 20th century.  

Dig deeper into the town’s history by checking out the historical artifacts that are exhibited in the museum. You’ll come across artifacts that will spark an interest and make you more curious.

If historical artifacts are not your cup of tea, you should visit the gallery — it has stunning historical photos.    

16. Go for a hiking trip at and Chase Brook Park

Chase Brook Park

Chase Brook Park is an enjoyable small little park that shows off the natural surroundings of the Cape. The park is located right off the Route 28 which is a main road and is easy to find.

There are tables and benches to enjoy the beautiful scenery including a deck that overlooks the creek. You can bring food and eat it on the tables and mostly avoid any crowds. After eating you can take a short walk down towards the marsh and view the birds in the birdhouses.

This park is definitely work visiting for a peaceful adventure.

17. Visit Werner Schmidt Observatory to observe planets and stars

Werner Schmidt Observatory

If you’ve never seen planets in real life, do not miss out on this opportunity. The Werner Schmidt Observatory Center has multiple types of telescopes that will give you a clear view of stars and planets in our solar system. 

Moreover, the Werner Schmidt Observatory has classical telescopes that date back to the early ’90s and late ’80s. 

Such telescopes are exhibited at the observatory center. Interacting with a classical telescope helps you understand how a classical astronomical device functions.

Planning tip: Be on the lookout for upcoming observatory events. 

18. Bird viewing at one of the Conservation Areas

Callery Darling Conservation Area

If you want to connect with nature, you can indulge yourself in an amazing bird-viewing experiences at one of Yarmouth’s conservation areas. The Callery Darling Conservation Area or Crab Creek Conservation is an amazing spot for bird viewing. 

If you visit the place, you’ll come across a wide variety of different bird species. Examples of such birds include tree sparrows, sanderling, eastern towhee, rusty blackbird, screech owls, northern harrier, and Virginia rails. 

Besides that, the conservation area has beautiful scenic views because it’s surrounded by salty marshes and thick vegetation.  

19. Try Seafood at The Skipper Restaurant and Chowder House

The Skipper Restaurant and Chowder House

The Skipper Restaurant and Chowder House is located next to the beach — a stone’s throw away from the shoreline. So, if you want to get a perfect view of the ocean while you are dining, you should sit on the patio. An open outdoor space can also be perfect for you if you want to enjoy the ocean’s breeze.

The menu has various food options, which are categorized into different sections. For instance, the Cape Cod Favorites section features some of the most popular dishes in Yarmouth and Cape Code. Examples of such dishes include calamari rolls, clam rolls, and scallop rolls.  

Since the restaurant is an award-winning establishment and made our list of the best restaurants in Yarmouth, it always features most of its award-winning dishes on the menu. You need to try out some of the highly-rated dishes.

20. Swim in a Kettle pond at Sandy Pond Recreational Area

Kettle pond at Nickerson State Park

If you can’t stop thinking about sharks every single time you are in the ocean, then you should start swimming in freshwater bodies like kettle ponds. 

For starters, fresh water is less salty than saline ocean water, so it can’t irritate your eyes.       

On top of that, most kettle ponds usually have shorelines that are filled with sand. And just like coastal beaches, inland beach spots can be quite comfy, making it easier for you to find a suitable spot where you can rest.    

Kettle ponds at Sandy Pond Recreational Area are also surrounded by trees and other vegetation, making it easier for you to find sturdy support for a swing rope. You can use a swing rope to dive into a kettle pond. There’s only one word that can describe this experience — exhilarating. 

21. Collect antiques at the Antique Center of Yarmouth 

Antique Center of Yarmouth 

If you love decorating your office or home with antiques, you should visit some of the antique shops that are in Yarmouth. The Antique Center of Yarmouth is an example of an antique shop, with so many collectibles. 

Plus, it has a lot of merchants who sell paintings, books, jewelry, glass, and silver. The place is neatly organized, making it easier for you to find different types of collectibles.   

What will you choose?

All in all, Yarmouth is a very lively town. If you want to visit a beach while in Yarmouth, Parkers River Beach might be suitable for you. And if you are someone who loves outdoor activities, you can go on a kayaking expedition, a fishing trip, or a hiking trip. 

Since Yarmouth is packed with so things to do, if you are looking for a highly recommended adventure be sure to contact Bass River Charters to get out there and fish or Pedego Electric Bikes to rent or even purchase an electric bike.

Lastly, did we miss anything? Have a recommendation of your own? Contact us here and let us know.