The reasons to visit this region of the country are endless, but among the best of them is the range of unique and fascinating Cape Cod museums. We have so many here on the Cape that you can’t possibly go to all of them in one trip! With this guide, discover the best Cape Cod museums, where to find them, and how to make the most of your visit.

Your Expert Guide to the Best Cape Cod Museums

Yarmouth Museums

Our favorite town on the Cape, Yarmouth offers a little bit of everything. The charming coastal town features pristine beaches, access to the Cape Cod Bay and the scenic Bass Hole Boardwalk, wonderful restaurants, and a few of the best historical sites and museums. Yarmouth’s central location on the Cape makes it the perfect place to stay to access all of the area’s top attractions! After exploring some of the museums below, whether in Yarmouth or the nearby towns, make your way back to the Captain Farris House to unwind.

Whydah Pirate Museum

One of the most unique museums on the Cape, the Whydah Pirate Museum features a fascinating display of artifacts recovered from an 18th-century vessel used for piracy and the slave trade. Learn about the exciting and dangerous pirate life, see real pirate relics including cannons and pistols, and hear the intriguing story of the treacherous Whydah ship which sank deep in Cape Cod waters.

• Museum Hours: Open Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last entry at 4:00 p.m.)
• Pricing: $18.95 for adults, $16.95 for ages 65+, $14.95 for ages 5-17, free for ages 4 & under
• Tickets: Purchase tickets here
• Directions from Captain Farris House: 674 MA-28, West Yarmouth, MA, 02673

Captain Bangs Hallet House Museum

The Captain Bangs Hallet House Museum is a 19th-century, historical sea captain’s home open for visitors to explore. Catch an intimate glimpse into the captain’s family life and home which is arranged as if he was just returning from his voyage to China. A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the home and provide vivid stories of the captain’s adrenaline-pumping adventures at sea.

• Museum Hours: Open Thursday – Sunday, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Pricing: $5 for adults, free for children and Yarmouth residents
• Tickets: Purchase tickets at the door
• Directions from Captain Farris House: 11 Strawberry Ln, Yarmouth Port, MA, 02675

Sandwich Museums

Sandwich, Massachusetts, is Cape Cod’s oldest town, and it holds an abundance of historical charm. Home to a scenic boardwalk, popular beaches, delicious restaurants, and fabulous attractions, Sandwich is the perfect place to take a day trip from the Captain Farris House. Among the best things to do in Sandwich are two fabulous museums, the Heritage Museum & Gardens and the Sandwich Glass Museum, which you can explore below. After your visit, we recommend

Heritage Museum & Gardens

The Heritage Museum and Gardens features the largest public garden in Southern New England as well as incredible galleries showcasing the work of painters, sculptors, artists, and collectors from across the nation. Enjoy over 100 acres of vibrant grounds,  dozens of gorgeous walking paths, and countless exhibits including the Start Your Engines! Cars and Stars of the Indy 500 which features some of the most renowned cars from this high-octane event. You can spend all day at this beautiful historical attraction! In addition, the site includes the Adventure Park, which provides the best climbing and zip lining that Massachusetts has to offer.

To find out how to make the most of your visit, take a look at our blog on the best ways to experience the Heritage Museum & Gardens!

• Museum Hours: Open daily, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Pricing: $18 for adults, $8 for children ages 3-11, free for ages 2 and under
• Tickets: You can purchase tickets here
• Directions from Captain Farris House: 67 Grove St, Sandwich, MA, 02563

Sandwich Glass Museum

Sandwich has a rich history in American glass production which it still maintains today. When you tour the Sandwich Glass Museum, you’ll discover the extensive past of this fascinating town, learn about the Sandwich’s role in the development of Cape Cod, and see a mix of regionally inspired and modern glass masterpieces. You might even come home with a few glass treasures of your own!

• Museum Hours: Open daily, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. April – December; Open Wednesday – Sunday 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. February – March
• Pricing: $10 for adults, $2 for children ages 6-14, free for ages 5 and under
• Tickets: You can purchase tickets at the door
• Directions from Captain Farris House: 129 Main St, Sandwich, MA, 02563

Hyannis Museums

You’ll find plenty to do in Hyannis from shopping and dining to beaches and sightseeing. Located just a 15-minute drive from the Captain Farris House, both Hyannis museums mentioned below can easily be explored in a day before making your way back to our B&B!

John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum

The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is where the legacy of one of the nation’s most beloved and inspiring presidents comes alive. Through interactive exhibits, fascinating artifacts, movies, and pictures, learn about President Kennedy’s life, family, and deep connection to Cape Cod.

• Museum Hours: Open Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. & Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Pricing: $12 for adults, $10 for ages 62+, $6 for ages 8-17, free for ages 7 & under
• Tickets: Purchase tickets here
• Directions from Captain Farris House: 397 Main St, Hyannis, MA, 02601

Cape Cod Maritime Museum

The Cape Cod Maritime Museum is a non-profit museum dedicated to sharing maritime culture and preserving Cape Cod’s rich seafaring traditions. The museum is located on the Hyannis waterfront and provides a glimpse into the area’s rich maritime history through exhibits, artifacts, and special events. See a sized replica of a local Captain’s boat shop, learn about the many different types of vessels, and climb aboard the museum’s 28-foot boat at the dock!

• Museum Hours: Check seasonal hours here
• Pricing: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $5 for ages 9-17, free for ages 8 & under
• Tickets: Purchase tickets here
• Directions from Captain Farris House: 135 South St, Hyannis, MA, 02601

Brewster Museums

Brewster is home to one of the region’s most popular museums – the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. Also the site of the Cape Cod Aquarium, the Museum of Natural History is less than 20 minutes from the Captain Farris House. If you’re interested in natural history and aquatic life, this Brewster site is a must-visit!

Cape Cod Museum of Natural History & Aquarium

To learn about the area’s unique natural history, environment, and archeology, head to the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. Explore a collection of fascinating exhibits ranging from honey bees and their habitat to shows describing how the Cape’s first inhabitants foraged for food.

No trip to the Museum of Natural History is complete with a visit to the aquarium! Discover the underwater world of Cape Cod which offers both freshwater and saltwater habitats.

• Museum Hours: Check seasonal hours here
• Pricing: $15 for adults, $10 for ages 65+, $6 for ages 3-12, free for ages 2 & under
• Tickets: Purchase tickets at the door
• Directions from Captain Farris House: 869 Main St, Brewster, MA, 02631

Brewster Historical Society Cobb House Museum

Constructed in 1799, the Elijah Cobb House was originally home to a sea captain before becoming the first permanent museum for the Brewster Historical Society. After purchasing and partially restoring the home, the Brewster Historical Society added artifacts and paintings to each room in the home from its own collection. You’ll find clothing, books, and furniture displayed throughout the home! Step inside the Elijah Cobb House to step back in time.

• Museum Hours: Check seasonal hours here
• Pricing: $5 for adults, free for ages 12 & under
• Tickets: Purchase tickets at the door
• Directions from Captain Farris House: 739 Lower Rd, Brewster, MA, 02631

Where to Stay

If you’re looking for the best place to stay with easy access to the wonderful Cape Cod museums mentioned above, look no further than the Captain Farris House. Nestled in the heart of scenic Yarmouth, we’re just a few minutes away from our town’s museums and centrally located for day trips to Sandwich, Hyannis, and other Cape Cod towns.

Each of our charming accommodations features luxurious queen or king sized beds, private ensuite bathrooms, soft linens, and plenty of thoughtful touches. During your stay, we’ll provide you with everything you need for a restorative, fun, and memorable vacation! We’re happy to give you recommendations for attractions, activities, and restaurants near all the best Cape Cod museums.

Check availability of all our accommodations now and book your stay today! We can’t wait to hear all about your Cape Cod adventures.