Insider tips for Cape Cod travel

Shining Sea Bikeway, Falmouth

The 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail from Dennis to Wellfleet is filled with authentic Cape Cod scenery: houses, ponds, cranberry bogs, salt marshes, country stores and piers.

Herb Farms in Harwich

Walk through organic herb gardens at Cedar Spring Herb Farm. A boutique sells dozens of homemade goodies. Cape Cod Lavender Farm -- the East Coast's largest -- is in full bloom in June and July.

Edward Gorey House

This Yarmouthport gem showcases Gorey's vivid artwork, boyhood diaries, trademark raccoon coat and legacy of animal welfare.

Cape Cod Potato Chip Factory

See how these famously crunchy hand-stirred kettle chips are made. Self-guided factory tours (and samples) are free.

Beach tips

Cape Codders flock to Old Silver Beach in Farmouth, tucked away from touristy areas. Watch the sunset at Rock Harbor, Race Point in Provincetown or Sandy Neck Beach in West Barnstable.

Things to do in Cape Cod

Cape Cod National Seashore

Stroll acres of unspoiled land dotted with nature trails, lighthouses, picnic areas and scenic overlooks. Take a sand dune or surf-fishing tour.

Coast Guard Beach, Eastham

Rent a bike in Eastham and follow the path across salt marshes and forests to Coast Guard Beach -- dubbed a top 10 by Dr. Beach in 2011.

Falmouth

Tour the local wineries, and visit Old Silver Beach and Nobska Light. Set sail for Martha's Vineyard on the Island Queen Ferry.

Heritage Museums and Gardens, Sandwich

Enjoy lush landscapes, peaceful gardens and an eclectic mix of museums where you'll find antique automobiles and toys, military artifacts and a 1912 carousel.

Lighthouse Tours

Snap pics of these iconic beacons, including the Cape's oldest and highest, Cape Cod Light. Set atop a dramatic cliff, its observation deck presents incredible views.

Monomoy Island, Chatham

Nature lovers migrate to this island sanctuary, accessible only by boat. Watch harbor seals haul out, spot shorebirds and white-tail deer, and then spend the night in the lightkeeper's cottage.

Provincetown

This artsy enclave is home to Pilgrim Monument, vibrant Commercial Street and the Provincetown Art Association and Museum. Enjoy a picnic in Beech Forest and beachcombing on Long Point.

Sandwich Glass Museum

Wander galleries filled with hundreds of sparkling glass objects, and watch glassblowers craft their wares in a demonstration.

Wellfleet

Start with a morning hike in the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, then take an afternoon stroll through art galleries. Dine on famous Wellfleet oysters, and at dusk, catch a flick at the Wellfleet Drive-In.