Dwell360 Guide: Welcome to Dennis
Dennis is the location of our own Ed Johnston’s family vacation home and one of all of our favorite towns on Cape Cod! With stunning beaches, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants, Dennis is packed with fun and enjoyment during the summer and the rest of the year.
A Brief History
A clipper ship, from the Dennis Historical Society.
Dennis was first settled in 1639, and was known as New Boston. In 1721, as a subcomponent of Yarmouth, it became the East Parish of Yarmouth. It remained a part of Yarmouth until 1793, when it separated and named itself the Town of Dennis, and became the 11th town in the US. Unfortunately, we don’t know much as town records were burned in a fire in 1677. In the 1800s, Dennis citizens were involved heavily in the clipper ship industry (making and trading them), as well as fishing and timber trading. House construction and development also expanded the town during these years. Later in the 1800s saw a loss in activity, as the decline in the fishing industry and excitement of more bustling cities, like Boston, drew young men to other towns. Since the early 1900s, however, Dennis has grown and changed into the place we know and love today!
11 Exciting Things to Do in Dennis, MA
A stunning sunset at Mayflower Beach.
Mayflower Beach: One of the most popular beaches on the Cape! Known for its stunning sunsets and expansive beach during low tide, Mayflower is a must for a day at the beach. It also has bathrooms and a snack shack, so you’ll have everything you need for the day.
Sesuit Harbor Cafe: For 22 years, the family-run Sesuit Harbor Cafe has been offering classic Cape Cod clam shack and raw bar eats and stunning views of the Bay to customers. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner for a delicious meal you won’t soon forget. We love to savor one of their amazing lobster rolls while watching the boats come in.
Sundae School Ice Cream: Appointed as one of the “Best Ice Cream Spots in the U.S.” by Food and Wine Magazine, Sundae School has been scooping and serving homemade ice cream since 1976. Be sure to stop in to try one of their spectacular flavors.
Cuffy’s: An iconic Cape Cod store. Stop in to browse an array of Cape Cod tshirts, sweatshirts, pants, souvenirs, homemade taffy, and more! Cuffy’s is the perfect place to buy a keepsake to remember your Cape vacation.
South Village Beach/Swan River: South Village beach is a beautiful spot, but the hidden gem is it’s small expanse along the Swan River. Enjoy riding the current up and down the river with the changing tides, either on a float, or on a kayak (rented from Cape Cod Waterways).
Bandera’s: A local favorite! Bandera’s is a family-run deli that makes meatballs, sauce, chicken, sandwiches, and more, fresh every day. They have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a muffin, an Italian sub, or some of Dolly’s (one of the owners) famous meatballs!
Fresh oysters on the half-shell.
Cape Playhouse: Named one of the 50 Best Small Stage Theatres in America, the Cape Playhouse has put on spectacular theatre performances, and has seen many famous stars on its stage, since 1927. The sprawling grounds and gorgeous theatre are a must-see for anyone looking for a magical night out.
Oyster Company: Since 2005, the Oyster Company has been serving up some of the freshest seafood on the Cape, boasting their famous Quivet Neck Oysters for only $1.50 each. Stop in for a spectacular dining experience in the classic dining room or outdoor patio, and enjoy excellent service, delectable food, and cocktails.
Cape Cod Rail Trail: The trail spreads 25 miles through 6 Cape Cod towns. Hit the trail with a bike or your own two feet, and enjoy stunning views, national parks, and Cape wildlife.
Southside Cantina: Although a newer addition to Dennis, the Southside Cantina has quickly made its way onto our list of favorites! They serve up scrumptious Mexican cuisine, including quesadillas, street tacos, and more. The bright colors and decorations will give you a memorable dining experience, and the food will keep you coming back.
Ocean House Restaurant: The Ocean House Restaurant offers fine dining with stunning views of the ocean. With a dining area for a delightful meal, a huge space for special events, and decadent cuisine (from crab cakes to Cape Cod Potato Chip crusted fish!), you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Be sure to let us know if you check out any of these great spots or if you have any additions to our list!
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Sources
Dennis Historical Society. The Firstcomers. Retrieved from https://archive.dennishistsoc.org/handle/10766/196
Dennis Historical Society. Colonization. Retrieved from https://archive.dennishistsoc.org/handle/10766/197
Dennis Historical Society. Expansion. Retrieved from https://archive.dennishistsoc.org/handle/10766/199
Dennis Historical Society. Modern America. Retrieved from https://archive.dennishistsoc.org/handle/10766/200
Dennis Historical Society. The Newcomers. Retrieved from https://www.dennishistoricalsociety.org/
Emily Dattilo, Cape Cod Times. Enjoy Nature in Historic Dennis. Retrieved from https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/entertainment/local/2020/08/18/enjoy-nature-in-historic-dennis/42652617/
