As the largest community on the Cape, the town of Barnstable has plenty of shops, beaches, and activities to offer. It has 7 villages, which are Barnstable Village, Centerville, Cotuit, Hyannis, Marstons Mills, Osterville, and West Barnstable, with Hyannis being the one with the most attractions and tourism.

A Brief History

In 1639, Parson Joseph Hull and his parish group came over to Massachusetts, but were not welcomed in Weymouth, so they decided to settle a little bit east of Sandwich. Later on in October of the same year, Reverend John Lothrop and his group came to the same area, and the settlement quickly incorporated as the Town of Barnstable (named after the town of Barnstaple, England). Barnstable originally included an area called Saconesset, which is modern-day Falmouth, but Saconesset incorporated as a separate town in 1686. Barnstable started off as a farming community, but eventually the people living there began to pursue other trades as well, such as fishing, among others. Shore whaling with try-works on Sandy Neck beach became increasingly popular as well. Try-works are brick furnaces used to heat huge cast-iron pots of blubber to extract oil, and as such, many of the trees in the area were cut down to be used as wood to fuel the try-works. The commercial hub of the town gradually moved toward the village of Hyannis, mainly due to the fact that Nantucket was the major shipping port, and the closest point to Nantucket is in Hyannis Harbor. The Old Colony Railroad, as a result, constructed rails that ran right to the harbor. Today, Barnstable is a vibrant community with 7 unique but united villages, each with its own bit of charm and history.

Top 15 Things to Do in Barnstable

• Main Street in Hyannis: Spend a day strolling down Main Street, and stop in the many shops, from jewelry to beach gear to souvenirs, that line the road. There are also plenty of places to grab a bite, including a few places that we mention below.

• Alberto’s Ristorante: If you’re looking for some top-notch Italian cuisine, in an upscale authentic setting, Alberto’s is the place for you. From pasta dishes to a variety of fresh meats and seafood, as well as delicious desserts, this establishment will leave you full and satisfied.

• Kandy Korner: A Barnstable staple! Fill up a bag with some penny candy, watch homemade taffy being concocted, or grab a large slice of homemade fudge. This is a place you don’t want to miss.

• Craigville Beach: Relax on the sands of Craigville Beach, and wade through its calm waters. With clean facilities, lifeguards on duty, and plenty of seashells for the kids to collect, you’re in for a top-notch beach day

• The Dolphin Restaurant: The Dolphin Restaurant serves up classic American eats and seafood including burgers, fries, cod cakes, stuffed Quahog and more. Be sure to check out this cozy and family-friend spot.

• Crisp: From flatbreads to wings to meatballs, Crisp offers tons of delicious options to choose from. Oh, and don’t forget to try their fantastic garlic knots!

• Coast Guard Heritage Museum: Did you know that the US Coast Guard was first created in Massachusetts? Visit the Coast Guard Heritage Museum to learn about the rich history of the US Coast Guard, and its brave members who protect our shores.

• Kalmus Beach: Conveniently located right in the heart of Hyannis, this beautiful beach is perfect for a quick trip to the beach, or for a long beach day. Also near the harbor, you’ll be able to see some of the boats coming in and out.

• Baxter’s: Located right on the water of Hyannis Harbor, Baxter’s offers stunning views of the town, ocean, and the activity of the boats. Oh, and their seafood is some of the best around. Treat yourself to grilled shrimp skewers, or maybe some crispy fried calamari. 

• The Daily Paper on Main: A classic diner-style spot for breakfast and lunch, and well-known to many. Dive into the steak bomb breakfast burrito, or try out the lobster benedict. 

• John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum: Dive into the past and learn about John F. Kennedy and his family’s legacy and important connection to Cape Cod. View rare photos and explore the different exhibits to create an unforgettable experience.

• Four Seas Ice Cream: Since 1934, Four Seas has been crafting and scooping up delicious homemade ice cream. This is a can’t-be-missed spot for a tasty (and refreshing!) treat in the midst of summer.

• Pizza Barbone: Serving up delicious, gourmet flatbreads, Pizza Barbone is the perfect place for some pizza. With unique varieties such as pistachio pesto and pepperoni & hot honey, you may just find your new favorite!

• Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises: Climb aboard one of the ships to experience Cape Cod’s finest whale watching. Gaze in awe as beautiful humpback whales swim and breach the waters of the Atlantic. You may even catch a glimpse of a few harbor seals or dolphins, too!

• Pain D'Avignon: A French restaurant that prioritizes the full experience of dining, not just great food, Pain D’Avignon offers up fantastic cuisine. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and try dishes such as campanelle, shrimp provencale, or quiche lorraine.  

Be sure to let us know which of these places you check out, or if we left out any of your favorite spots!

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Sources
The Barnstable Historical Society. Retrieved from https://barnstablehistoricalsociety.org/. 
Cape Cod Times. Barnstable Villages Offer Art, History, Nature. Retrieved from https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/entertainment/local/2020/08/06/barnstable-villages-offer-art-history-nature/114060780/. 
Tripadvisor. Things to Do in Barnstable. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g41453-Activities-Barnstable_Cape_Cod_Massachusetts.html. 
Barnstable Cape Cod. Barnstable History. Retrieved from http://www.barnstablecapecod.com/History.