Why You Should Visit Cape Cod in the Fall

I’m going to let you in on a little secret.

Are you ready?

It might be a shocker, but Cape Cod is a great place to travel to in the fall.

While the Cape is largely known as a summer destination, and, let’s face it, summertime is beautiful in the area, the autumn is Cape Cod’s exciting little secret.

It’s true because the fall provides a slower pace of life and the ultimate in relaxation, making it the perfect destination for those who like to decompress at the end of the summer or get away in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

With an average high of 51 degrees in November, it’s warm enough that you can spend time outside without freezing while enjoying the sights and sounds of Cape Cod in the fall.

Book your fall vacation on Cape Cod and don’t miss the following great activities for a family or a couple.

Take Scenic Strolls on the Beach

Even though the sunbathing season is over for the year, the beaches on the Cape remain open. This is good news for anyone looking for solitude and relaxation, as you can walk for miles on Nauset Beach in Orleans, Ballston Beach in Truro, or Seagull Beach on the Yarmouth seaside without bumping into anyone.

Those who visit Cape Cod during the autumn love being able to explore nature alone for the day, without having to fight the crowds for a parking for space, while witnessing the fall foliage in the background.

Having a peaceful day exploring the beaches and sand dunes is part of New England coastal living that you must experience to truly appreciate.

Avoid the Lines at Restaurants

If you’ve ever tried to get a table at a Cape Cod restaurant in summer, you know how frustrating it can be.

Don’t have a reservation? Don’t even bother trying to get into one of the area’s hotspots unless you fancy a 10 PM dinner.

In the fall, however, you will have more choice because the tourists have gone home for the year. This is the best time of year to try a number of different restaurants without having to reserve a table days or even weeks in advance.

For a spontaneous foodie vacation, The Cape in the fall is one of your better bets. Del Mar Bistro in Chatham, Jimmy’s HideAway in Provincetown, and Captain Linnell House in Orleans are three eateries that aren’t to be missed.

Experience the Fall Events and Festivals

A surprising number of events and festivals are part of a Cape Cod fall:

In mid September, the Cranberry Festival brings two days of food, drinks, and entertainment to Harwich. In mid-October, the Wellfleet Oysterfest brings a similar dynamic to the Outer Cape. Music, local beer, artisan arts and crafts, and an oyster shuck-off highlight the event.

Fall for the Arts Festival is a month-long, Cape-wide festival that highlights the area’s performing arts. The festival typically takes place in October and November and includes concerts, plays, and other forms of live entertainment. Heritage walks and guided art tours are also part of the event.

Ride the Train to Christmas Town

As we get further into the autumn and the Christmas season kicks off, The Train to Christmas Town is a top attraction on Cape Cod. This train ride, which departs from Buzzards Bay, takes guests to Christmas Town and is outfitted with storybook characters in full costume, elves, and, of course, hot cocoa.

At the end of the tour, Santa Claus himself makes a personal appearance.

The train runs from late November through Christmas and is sure to create a memorable experience and keep the Christmas magic alive for any children that take a ride.

Something for Everyone

Whether you’re looking for a family vacation full of seaside festivals or a romantic getaway with live music and dinner for two, Cape Cod has fall activities for everyone. And because more accommodation options are available during the slower months, it is easier to create your ideal trip to the Cape once the crowds leave after the summer.

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