Whether you’re trying to escape the blistering summer heat or brutal winter chill, Provincetown museums are the best indoor attractions on Cape Cod. A day at the museum will introduce you to the area’s rich American history, prominent art culture, and deep seafaring roots. With everything from national landmarks to art galleries, there are several great Provincetown museums to explore on your next Cape Cod getaway. Here are four of the best ones you need to visit soon:
Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum
It is hard to miss the Pilgrim Monument standing tall in the center of Provincetown. But, what some visitors don’t always know is that this landmark also has an accompanying museum. Built in 1910, the Provincetown Museum is the oldest museum in Cape Cod with the purpose of commemorating Provincetown’s role in American history. The museum includes a permanent exhibition on Provincetown and America history and an ever-changing array of temporary exhibitions. The Provincetown Museum & Pilgrim Monument are two attractions in one. You won’t want to miss either of them!
Highland House Museum and Lighthouse
Another two-for-one museum and landmark in Provincetown is the Highland House Museum and Lighthouse. The oldest lighthouse on Cape Cod, the Highland Lighthouse is officially the “Cape Cod Light,” but it’s locally known as the Highland Light. Before you climb to the top of this 174-foot tower, you should also visit the Highland House Museum located right next door. The building, once a summer resort, is now a museum that highlights Truro and the Lower Cape’s history. In addition, the museum also has exhibits about legendary shipwrecks and the Native Americans who once lived in the area. What’s better, after visiting the Highland Lighthouse, same-day entrance to the museum is less than one dollar!
Provincetown Art Association Museum
A trip to Provincetown isn’t complete without a visit to at least one of the many Provincetown art galleries in the area. The best place to start your art tour is at the Provincetown Art Association Museum. Unlike other Provincetown attractions that close during the off-season, the Provincetown Art Association Museum is open year-round. The museum is home to fine-art exhibitions that change throughout the year and it also hosts a number of great events to attend. The Provincetown Art Association Museum is the most widely-attended art museum on Cape Cod and it is one that you do not want to miss!
The Whydah Pirate Museum
The next time you go for a walk at the MacMillan Wharf, you need to stop at Expedition Whydah. The Expedition Whydah is a fun museum to visit that sheds light on the darker side of Provincetown’s seafaring history. Across from the ferry terminal at the end of the wharf, 300-year-old pirate coins, gold jewelry, cannonballs, swords, guns, and much more await your discovery inside Expedition Whydah. This pirate museum in Provincetown contains relics of one of the Cape’s most legendary shipwrecks. The Whydah, commanded by the pirate Sam Bellamy, was shipwrecked in 1717. At Expedition Whydah, you can learn about this wreck, legend that surrounds it, and the Golden Age of piracy in the U.S.
Visit the Best Provincetown Museums and Stay with Us!
With so many great Provincetown museums to explore, make plans to stay in the center of it all! Admiral’s Landing is just one block from Commercial Street and the bay. While staying with us, you’ll be a short walk from all the best things to do in Provincetown, including a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries. Our beautifully decorated inn is bright and well-appointed with Provincetown art, comfortable furnishings, and the most luxurious amenities. Choose from our eight relaxing guest rooms and book a stay with us today!