Harwich MassachusettsATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Harwich, Massachusetts.
1. Bank Street Beach
PRISTINE COASTAL PARADISE
Bank Street Beach is one of the top-rated beaches in Harwich, offering warm waters ideal for swimming and shell-strewn sands perfect for beachcombing. Visitors can enjoy the quintessential Cape Cod beach experience with its relaxing atmosphere and scenic views. The beach provides a perfect setting for lazy summer days and is highly recommended for families and beach enthusiasts alike.
2. Cape Cod Lavender Farm
FRAGRANT PURPLE PARADISE
Cape Cod Lavender Farm features stunning fields of purple lavender flowers and sells a variety of fragrant products made on-site. Visitors can explore the Enchanted Garden which includes a small castle and a fairy house, adding a whimsical element to the experience. The farm offers a sensory retreat with its beautiful landscapes and aromatic environment, making it a unique attraction in Harwich.
3. Red River Beach
SCENIC SHORELINE RETREAT
Red River Beach is a popular coastal destination in Harwich known for its pleasant shoreline and kayaking opportunities. The beach offers a great place for walking along the shoreline and enjoying water activities during warmer months. During off-season periods, it becomes pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their four-legged companions for seaside strolls.
4. Harwich Antiques Center
VINTAGE TREASURE TROVE
Harwich Antiques Center is a highly-rated destination for collectors and history enthusiasts seeking unique vintage items. The center houses a diverse collection of antiques that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage and artisanal craftsmanship. Visitors can spend hours browsing through carefully curated selections of furniture, decor, jewelry, and other collectibles from various time periods.
5. Harwich Junior Theatre
CREATIVE PERFORMING ARTS
Harwich Junior Theatre is a beloved cultural institution offering theatrical performances and educational programs for all ages. The theater presents a variety of productions throughout the year, providing entertainment for both locals and visitors to Cape Cod. With its strong community focus and commitment to artistic excellence, the venue has earned a reputation for high-quality performances and creative programming.
6. Bell's Neck Conservation Lands
NATURAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Bell's Neck Conservation Lands encompasses over 600 acres of preserved natural beauty with a 2.75-mile trail around the West Reservoir. Nature enthusiasts are drawn to this wilderness area for its variety of wildlife including hawks, swans, and osprey, as well as the opportunity to watch herring jump the ladder during spring migration. The conservation area offers a peaceful escape from the beaches and crowds, allowing visitors to experience Cape Cod's pristine natural environment.
7. Wychmere Harbor
PICTURESQUE MARITIME HAVEN
Wychmere Harbor is a stunning waterfront destination in Harwich that serves as a point of interest and landmark for visitors. The harbor offers beautiful views of boats and maritime activities, creating a quintessential New England coastal scene. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the harbor, watch fishing boats come and go, or simply take in the peaceful atmosphere of this charming nautical setting.
8. Brooks Free Library
HISTORIC LITERARY HAVEN
Brooks Free Library is a highly-rated community resource offering books, programs, and services to residents and visitors alike. The library provides a peaceful environment for reading, research, and exploration of local history and culture. Its historic architecture and welcoming atmosphere make it a beloved institution in the heart of Harwich.
9. Brooks Academy Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Brooks Academy Museum, run by the Harwich Historical Society, offers exhibits that showcase Harwich's rich history including its relationship with the cranberry industry. The museum houses town records and various historical materials that tell the story of this Cape Cod community's development over the centuries. The historical society regularly hosts specialized events dedicated to specific aspects of the area's history, providing deeper insights into Harwich's cultural heritage.
10. Cape Cod Rail Trail
SCENIC CYCLING PATH
Cape Cod Rail Trail offers a picturesque path for cycling or walking past cranberry bogs, lakes, and ponds in and around Harwich. The trail provides a pet-friendly outdoor experience through some of Cape Cod's most beautiful landscapes and tranquil wilderness areas. Visitors can enjoy this scenic route that connects multiple Cape Cod towns while experiencing the natural beauty of the region at their own pace.
11. Brax Landing Restaurant
HARBORSIDE SEAFOOD DINING
Brax Landing Restaurant offers a quintessential Cape Cod dining experience with panoramic views of Saquatucket Harbor. The restaurant specializes in mouthwatering seafood dishes made with fresh local ingredients in a relaxed waterfront setting. Pet owners will appreciate that Brax Landing features pet-friendly outdoor seating, making it an inclusive dining option for the whole family.
12. Cape Sea Grille
ELEGANT SEASONAL CUISINE
Cape Sea Grille offers an elegant dining experience set in a charming 19th-century home in Harwich. The restaurant features an exquisite menu showcasing seasonal ingredients in creative, precision-crafted dishes that highlight the flavors of Cape Cod. With its refined atmosphere and attention to culinary detail, Cape Sea Grille provides a sophisticated option for those seeking a memorable dining experience during their visit.
13. Schoolhouse Ice Cream
NOSTALGIC SWEET TREATS
Schoolhouse Ice Cream is a beloved seasonal destination offering creamy scoops of homemade ice cream in Harwich. The shop features a charming setting reminiscent of days gone by, adding a touch of nostalgia to the sweet indulgence. Visitors can savor a variety of unique flavors while enjoying the shop's quaint atmosphere, making it a perfect stop for a refreshing treat during warm Cape Cod days.
14. Cranberry Valley Golf Course
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Cranberry Valley Golf Course is a popular recreational destination for golf enthusiasts visiting Harwich. The course offers beautiful landscapes integrated with Cape Cod's natural environment, providing both challenge and scenic beauty for players of various skill levels. Golfers can enjoy a full day of sport while taking in the fresh air and picturesque surroundings that make this course a standout attraction in the area.
15. Mad Minnow Bar & Kitchen
LOCAL FARE & CRAFT BEER
Mad Minnow Bar & Kitchen is a local favorite in Harwich known for its classic Cape Cod fare and extensive craft beer selection. The restaurant offers a casual dining atmosphere where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and other regional specialties prepared with care. Its popularity among locals speaks to the quality of its food and service, making it a recommended stop for those wanting to experience authentic Cape Cod cuisine.