Best Things To Do in Falmouth in 2024

Falmouth is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing and authentic Cape Cod experience. With beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and vibrant cultural scene, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes.

In this blog post, we share some of the top things to do in Falmouth. We also share some of our favorite hidden gems and fun free activities for the budget-conscious visitor. 

Best Things To Do in Falmouth, MA

Here are several things I love about Falmouth, and tend to always return to whenever I am in town.

1. Spend a Day in Woods Hole

Despite its small size, there are plenty of things to do in this small village. It’s my favorite place in Falmouth to spend a day. I like to visit the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, walk around the waterfront park, and grab a coffee or tea at Pie in the Sky Bakery & Cafe while watching ferries come and go to Martha’s Vineyard.

It is also home to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), a world-renowned research facility that offers tours and exhibits in the summertime. Fun fact, WHOI (and a French equivalent institution) were responsible for discovering the location of the sunken RMS Titanic in 1985.

After riding the Shining Sea Bikeway from North Falmouth, fuel up at Coffee Obsession and grab a bite to eat at Woods Hole Market & General Store, or one of the village’s many restaurants.

2. Explore Highfield Hall and Gardens

Highfield Hall is an historic mansion built in 1878. It was once the summer home of the Beebe family, and it has since been transformed into a cultural center for the community. The estate hosts variety of events and exhibits throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibits, and educational programs for all ages.

The property also includes two beautifully landscaped gardens and the trailhead to Beebe Woods, a network of foot trails and old carriage roads. The grounds and Beebe Woods are free to explore.

Highfield Hall is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, or simply looking for a peaceful escape.

3. Visit the Nobska Lighthouse

This historic lighthouse dates back to the 1800s and offers breathtaking views of Vineyard Sound and Martha’s Vineyard. The 40-foot tall tower is made of cast iron and the carefully preserved keeper’s house is a beautiful Victorian-style building, making for an iconic site to see.

Visitors can usually tour the keeper’s house and climb the tower, but it is currently undergoing much-needed renovations. After the the U.S Coast Guard’s decision to deaccession the lighthouse, plans were made to turn it into a museum about the rich maritime history of the area.

4. Visit the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

The Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is a protected area encompassing 825 acres of open water, salt and fresh marshes, forests, grasslands, and barrier beaches. It is one of only thirty National Estuarine Research Reserves in the country.

The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory and endangered bird species, horseshoe crabs, and fish. Visitors can explore the reserve by hiking the trails, kayaking in the bay, or participating in educational programs about the area’s ecology and history. The reserve also features a visitor center with exhibits and educational displays, as well as a gift shop.

The Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is a beautiful and unique destination for anyone interested in nature and environmental conservation.

5. Stroll Main Street, Eat, and Shop

Main Street in Falmouth is a charming downtown area that offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

The street is lined with historic buildings, many of which date back to the 19th century, and feature beautiful architecture. Visitors can browse through a variety of unique shops, art galleries, and antique stores. Or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes that line the street.

My favorite shops and restaurants are Eight Cousins Books, LeRoux Kitchen, Pickle Jar Kitchen, and Estia.

Main Street is also home to the Falmouth Museums on the Green, which features exhibits on the town’s history and culture, as well as a variety of events throughout the year.

6. Go to the Barnstable County Fair

The Barnstable County Fair is an annual county fair held in East Falmouth, that locals and visitors look forward to every year. It features live music performances, a demolition derby, carnival rides, games, and traditional fair food.

Enjoy traditional fair food such as cotton candy, fried dough, and my favorite, sausage and peppers (without the bun). Another favorite thing to do at the fair is browse through the local crafts and artwork exhibits. The fair also hosts livestock shows, where visitors can meet and learn about different types of farm animals including cows, rabbits, and llamas.

If you want to make the fair a part of your Cape Cod trip, plan it for around mid-July.

7. Bike or Walk the Shining Sea Bikeway

If you’re looking for active things to do in Falmouth, the 11-mile paved trail offers stunning views of the coastline. The trail winds its way along the Buzzards Bay coastline from North Falmouth to Woods Hole. This popular bike path is named after the famous song “America the Beautiful” which describes Cape Cod’s coastline as the “shining sea”.

Along the way, cyclists can enjoy stunning views of the ocean, beaches, marshes, woodlands, and historic landmarks. The trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it accessible to people of all ages and skill levels. There are several areas to park to enjoy portions of the bike trail.

Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the local stores, restaurants, and ice cream shops, and make stops at interesting sites. The trail passes the Salt Pond Bird Sanctuary, Highfield Hall and Gardens, and Main Street. Stop to cool off at Grew’s Pond at Goodwill Park.

8. Tour the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

You’ll hear locals pronounce the acronym WHOI, like “who-ee.” This world-renowned institution provides visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the cutting-edge oceanography and marine science research being conducted there.

The Ocean Science Discovery Center and summer guided tours provides visitors with the opportunity to interact with scientists and engineers working on some of the most important issues facing our oceans today. Explore the laboratories, workshops, and research vessels used by WHOI scientists including Alvin, the deep-sea submersible that found the Titanic wreckage.

9. Beach Day in Falmouth

There are several beautiful and unique beaches to sunbathe and play on in Falmouth. No matter which beach you choose, Falmouth’s beaches are sure to offer a fun and relaxing day.

Public Beaches in Falmouth

Expect to pay daily parking fees if you don’t have resident or visitor beach stickers. Keep scrolling for information on Falmouth beach passes.

• Menauhant Beach East
• Old Silver Beach
• Surf Drive Beach

Sticker-Only Beaches in Falmouth

In order to park at these beaches, you must have a resident or non-resident beach sticker affixed to your car.

• Wood Neck Beach
• Chapoquoit Beach
• Megansett Beach
• Falmouth Heights Beach
• Bristol Beach

MUST-KNOW INFO ABOUT FALMOUTH BEACHES

Summer Season – Summer season typically runs from the end of June to Labor Day weekend. During that time, lifeguards and bathroom facilities are present where noted.

Beach Passes – Non-residents can purchase weekly or seasonal beach stickers online or with cash (or card) at the Ellen T. Mitchell Bathhouse at 56 Surf Drive.

Dogs – Are not allowed on public beaches from From May 1 through October 1.

Visit Falmouth Beach Dept to learn more.

10. Day Trip to Martha’s Vineyard

Be island side in just 35-45 minutes and enjoy all that Martha’s Vineyard offers. On a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard, you can explore Oak Bluffs, with its colorful gingerbread cottages and the historic Flying Horses Carousel. Visit Edgartown to wander the quaint streets lined with elegant captain’s homes and see stunning views from the Edgartown Lighthouse.

Or spend the entire day on one of the island’s beautiful beaches, such as South Beach or Inkwell Beach. No matter what you do for the day, make sure to have dinner at one of the Vineyard’s delicious restaurants before catching the ferry back to the mainland.

Travel to Martha’s Vineyard by ferry – either the Steamship Authority from Woods Hole or Island Queen Ferry from Falmouth Harbor. Walk on, round trip tickets are less than $30 and you can get around the island with a cheap bus day pass. Or bring your own vehicle for $128+.

Unique Things To Do in Falmouth

Forever on a mission to find fun and unique things to do on Cape Cod, here are a couple that you should not miss. I will expand this section when I find more!

11. Explore the Knob

This uniquely shaped peninsula offers stunning views of Quissett Harbor and Buzzards Bay after a short hike through a peaceful wooded area called the Cornelia Carey Sanctuary. The area is also home to a charming beach and picnic area, making it a perfect destination for an afternoon picnic.

12. Visit Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary

What makes this Mass Audubon property so unique is the flora and fauna you will encounter while there. Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 30 species of dragonflies and 65 varieties of holly trees among several types of migratory birds.

While you are there, hike the 1.5 miles of trails around Grassy Pond, a natural vernal pond. If you’re interested in seeing the tallest holly tree on the property, follow the Mystery Trail.

More unique things to do in Falmouth

• Coonamessett Farm
• Cape Cod Winery (closing soon!)
• Quahog Republic
• College Light Opera Company

Free Things To Do in Falmouth

Several things I mentioned earlier won’t cost you a dime, but I’ve got even more awesome free things to do in Falmouth, MA, that I know you will enjoy.

• Browse local vendors at the Falmouth Farmers’ Market to shop for fresh produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items. The market operates on Thursdays in the summer.
• Escape into nature at Explore Spohr Gardens and wander through landscapes featuring beautiful gardens, walking paths, and tranquil ponds.
• Take a scenic drive along Route 28A to see historic homes and stunning landscapes.
• Visit the Falmouth Art Center, a non-profit art center featuring exhibits, classes, and workshops.
• While admission is technically $5 at the Woods Hole Historical Museum, it’s suggested, so you can choose to visit for free.

Getting To and Around Falmouth

Falmouth is a large town, so bringing your car (or having a rental) is the best way to get there and get around. However, it’s not the only way.

How to Get to Falmouth

By Bus | Take the Plymouth & Brockton bus or the Peter Pan bus from the airport or South Station in Boston to the Falmouth Bus Depot or the Woods Hole Terminal. From there, take the CCRTA Sealine line to certain points in town. From Providence, Rhode Island, take the Peter Pan bus to the Falmouth Bus Depot.

Use Rome2Rio to find the way to Falmouth that works best for you.

Ways to Get Around Falmouth

Aside from driving, which I can’t recommend enough, here are different ways to get around Falmouth. Some ways are better to use to get around within villages rather than across town or the Cape.

Bike | Biking is a popular way to get around Falmouth, with several bike rental shops available in town. All are conveniently located near the Shining Sea Bikeway, either in North Falmouth or Falmouth Village.

• Art’s Bike Shop
• Corner Cycle
• Bike Zone

Walk | Certain areas in Falmouth are easier than others on foot, like Woods Hole or downtown Falmouth. But the town is so large that you shouldn’t rely solely on your feet to get you around.

Taxi & Rideshare | Several taxi companies operate on Cape Cod and can provide transportation to nearby towns and attractions. Both Lyft and Uber are available during the summer months across the Cape. They may stop altogether or just have fewer drivers during the shoulder and winter seasons.

I highly recommend having a vehicle (yours or a rental) while visiting Cape Cod!

Parking in Falmouth

Some areas in Falmouth may have limited parking or will fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan or consider using alternative transportation if possible. More parking information.

Metered Parking | Parking meters are located in Falmouth village, Falmouth Heights, and Woods Hole. They run daily from 8am to 6pm (including holidays), accept quarters or credit cards, and are for short-term use only up to 3 hours.

Where to Eat in Falmouth

Here is a list of my favorite restaurants in Falmouth, MA, some of which I used to eat at frequently before learning about my food allergies.

Where to Stay in Falmouth

The Coonamessett Inn | This historic inn offers charming rooms and suites with modern amenities, as well as a restaurant and bar serving delicious cuisine and craft cocktails.

The Palmer House Inn | This elegant bed and breakfast offers luxurious accommodations in a beautifully restored 1901 Victorian mansion, complete with a gourmet breakfast and afternoon tea service.

Frederick William House | A boutique inn located right on the Shining Sea Bikeway and conveniently offers free bikes to guests.

Falmouth Tides | A 29-room boutique hotel with recently renovated rooms with ocean views. Offers guests exclusive access to a private beach, complimentary beach chairs, paddleboards, bikes, and various beach activities

The Sea Crest Beach Hotel | This beachfront resort offers spacious rooms and suites with ocean views, as well as a private beach, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant and cabana bar.

Holiday Inn Cape Cod-Falmouth | A familiar favorite close to attractions and beaches making it a favorite choice for families seeking a quintessential Cape Cod experience.

Read More: Where to Stay On Cape Cod | All Budgets Covered!

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