Located on the “elbow” of Cape Cod, Chatham, Massachusetts, offers New England small-town charm coupled with beach relaxation. Chatham is a special place with many things for visitors to do in town, on the beach, or on the water
Start your day off by watching the sunrise at Chatham Light Beach. Then spend the rest of your morning enjoying the miles of white sand. Take a walk along the water and check out the lighthouse that the beach is named for.
Wildlife is also a big draw for the area. A large seal population is often seen swimming in the water and relaxing on the shore. Several local boat tours can take you out to observe the seals and other marine life. There is also a popular nature walk out to Monomoy Island where you will see many kinds of birds.
For the angler, you can charter a half- or full-day sports fishing trip. Chatham’s five freshwater ponds are also a great spot to catch trout and bass. Bring your catch to Chatham Pier and Fish Market and they will prepare it for you.
Head back into town to visit one of the local museums, such as the Chatham Marconi Maritime Center and the Chatham Railroad Museum, located in the historic Chatham Railroad Company station. If you are into historic homes, the Caleb Nickerson House and the Josiah May House are available to tour. Plus, the whole town is full of well-preserved historic buildings.
Chatham’s quaint downtown is also lined with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Stop by the Chatham Candy Manor for sweets, Mahi Gold Outfitters for clothing, and the Artful Hand Gallery for one-of-a-kind gifts.
For sports, Veterans Field in Chatham is the home park of the Chatham Anglers, one of ten teams in the widely known Cape Cod Baseball League. The games, which run from June through August, are free to watch and very competitive. You might just see a future hall of famer as they compete in what is considered the best collegiate summer baseball league. Over 1,000 alumni from the league have gone on to play at some level of professional baseball.
BONUS: Stay at the Chatham Bars Inn, a resort known for its excellent service, fine cuisine, and beautiful setting.
With so many things to see and do, Chatham is the perfect spot for a Cape Cod vacation!
