What to do in Ptown with Provincetown Business Guild Exec Director Stephen Hengst
Table of Contents
Introduction
Beaches
Art Galleries
Restaurants
Nightlife
Outdoor Activities
Shopping
Events
Travel Tips
Introduction
Stephen Hengst of the Provincetown Business Guild gives his take on what to do in Provincetown. Provincetown, located at the northern tip of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, is a popular summer destination known for its beaches, art scene, and vibrant LGBTQ culture. Often referred to as "P-town," it offers visitors plenty of activities, entertainment, dining, and shopping options.
Beaches
Provincetown has several beautiful beaches to enjoy during the summer months. Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach, both part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, offer scenic shorelines and swimming areas. The beaches have lifeguards on duty during peak season. Herring Cove is more protected and better for calmer waters and families. Race Point faces the open ocean. Long Point Beach is another magnificent beach on the outermost tip of the Cape. Beachgoers will discover great water views and dramatic scenery here.
Art Galleries
With its thriving arts community, Provincetown has numerous art galleries selling works by local artists. Some notable galleries to visit include Berta Walker Gallery, which features contemporary paintings, prints, and sculpture; Gallery 444 showcasing eclectic contemporary art; and Adam Peck Gallery displaying vibrant impressionist paintings. Many galleries host receptions on Friday evenings, providing a great chance to mix and mingle with artists while enjoying refreshments and taking in the latest works.
Restaurants
Provincetown boasts an array of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants. The Lobster Pot is a longtime favorite for lobster, clams, and other local seafood. Napi’s Restaurant offers creative dishes made from local, organic ingredients. For breakfast, check out The Canteen, known for their fluffy pancakes and eggs benedict. And don’t miss Portuguese Bakery, dishing out freshly baked breads and tasty sandwiches. Want a romantic dinner? Make reservations at The Mews, housed in a historic carriage house, serving eclectic new American cuisine.
Nightlife
After dinner, experience Provincetown's vibrant nightlife. The town has a sizable gay community and many bars and clubs cater to the LGBTQ crowd. Popular hotspots include Boatslip Resort overlooking the harbor, with dancing, entertainment, and tea dances during the day, Crown & Anchor for cabaret shows and DJs, and Pilgrim House, the longest running gay bar in town. Post office Café & Cabaret hosts Broadway singalongs and drag shows. Unwind at Gosnold Arms inn’s piano bar for a more low-key evening.
Outdoor Activities
Beyond the beaches, there are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Provincetown. Rent a bike and ride along the scenic trails of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Go on a whale watching cruise to see these magnificent marine mammals up close. Climb the Pilgrim Monument, a 252-foot tower with sweeping views of Cape Cod Bay. Play a round of mini golf or walk along the bustling Commercial Street shops. The Provincetown dunes also offer prime spots for hiking and picnicking.
Shopping
From souvenir shops to art galleries to clothing boutiques, Commercial Street offers diverse shopping options. Browse through colorful T-shirts, beach essentials and nautical-themed gifts at the shops around MacMillan Wharf. Pick up handcrafted jewelry and pottery from local artisans at Womencrafts. Find the latest fashions at Marmalade along with accessories and home goods. Shine is known for Provincetown-themed gifts and apparel. Don’t forget to pop into the dozens of art galleries lining the street and purchase a special painting or photograph to remember your trip.
Events
One of the best times to visit Provincetown is during one of its lively festivals and events. In June, the Provincetown International Film Festival showcases over 100 American independent and international films. July brings Carnival Week celebrating the LGBTQ culture with a vibrant parade and outrageous costumes. TENNIS WEEK offers tournaments, social events, and a Pro-Am where participants can play with tennis pros. And in October, Sample Provincetown Restaurant Week provides a chance to enjoy special dining offers to sample the town’s tasty cuisine.
Travel Tips
Getting to P-town can take time, since it’s located at the end of Cape Cod. Give yourself several hours if driving, especially on weekends. Or take a fast ferry from Boston to cut down travel time.
Parking can be tricky during peak season. Opt for metered street parking or use the main MacMillan parking lot. Ride your bike or walk around town to avoid parking hassles.
Summer is packed with visitors, so make lodging reservations well in advance. Choose from hotels, motels, B&Bs, guesthouses or even weekly vacation rentals.
Off-season still offers quieter charm, fewer crowds, and lower rates, though some shops and restaurants may be closed. The best weather is late spring through fall.
Stop by the Provincetown Tourism Office on Commercial Street for advice, maps, and brochures to help plan your visit.
With pristine dunes, charming shops and eateries, vibrant culture and arts scene, Provincetown offers the perfect Cape Cod vacation full of seaside activities and relaxation. Use these tips to help uncover the best of this beloved coastal town.
—This article was written, restructured, or adapted by Russell with information gathered from sources around the internet. Russell is the producer of Amber Live and is greatly overworked to pull it all together. If it’s on the internet, it must be true. (We’re kidding.) BUT, if you find any errors or omissions in the article, please let us know so that we may correct the issue. Thanks for your support!
