Old Cape Cod. Just say the name and most people will have an image that pops into their heads. Or it may be a song…
“If you’re fond of sand dunes and salty air
Quaint little villages here and there
You’re sure to fall in love with old Cape Cod”
These opening lyrics are from the classic 1957 song, ‘Old Cape Cod’. “Hailed by Cape Codders as the “unofficial Cape Cod anthem”. The song sung by Patti Page became a huge hit and has been credited with “putting the Cape on the map” and establishing Cape Cod as a major tourist destination. Thank you Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce for these informative bits of historic trivia.
The nostalgic charm of old Cape Cod still exists and I believe is its major draw. But what’s ‘new’ on old Cape Cod? I decided to find out.
Maybe relaxing on the beach beside those famous sand dunes is good for a day or two? But experiential tourism is huge today. Leave the beach chair in the trunk and explore. It could involve environmental, historical, artistic or food adventures. Here are a few I discovered.
- The Cape Cod Art Association located in Barnstable has been offering art classes and exhibitions since its inception in 1948. Novice or experienced, I think taking an art class would be ‘experiential’ for sure.
- Or, create your own Arts Trail with the ArtsApp Cape Cod. Choose the craftspeople, galleries and museums to visit based on your interests. A great app to discover theater and concert dates to book before your trip.
- An example of a ‘must see’ is the Cape Playhouse. One of the very few remaining ‘summer stock’ theatres in the United States. This year celebrating its 90 birthday this summer. This iconic historical theatre is still going strong and revving up for another 90+ years.
- Explore the natural side of Cape Cod in a kayak. Great Marsh Kayak Tours offer various 3 hour adventure tours. Learn about wildlife above and below the marshes. In addition learn some history from an experienced local guide.
- Food, always a popular draw. The Farm to Table Series at Highland Hall & Gardens in Falmouth is holding demonstrations this summer with ‘flavors of Japan’. Learn tips and techniques along with lots of noshing.
Another lyrical line from Old Cape Cod. “If you spend an evening you’ll want to stay”. Where? The Palmer House Bed & Breakfast would be an excellent choice. Staying at a classic Cape Cod Bed & Breakfast rounds out a cape cod experiential vacation. Located in Falmouth, a prime destination village on Upper Cape Cod. Set in the Historic District on a quiet residential street within easy walking distance to the village. The Inn is open year round to take advantage of all the seasonal adventures. Yes, the cape is beautiful in winter too!
The B&B Team is offering The Palmer House Bed & Breakfast for sale. The Palmer House is a prime example of a restored elegant cape building transformed into a bed and breakfast with today’s conveniences. The old and the new blend so well at The Palmer House.
For future innkeepers, your new life adventure and innkeeping career on Cape Cod could start here. ‘You’re sure to fall in love with old (and new) Cape Cod.’
Thanks for Listening,
Janet Wolf
