Best Things to Do in Chatham in 2024

Let’s take a closer look at some of the top things to do in Chatham, so you can plan a perfect getaway to this small, charming town.

Located right on the elbow of Cape Cod, Chatham is a popular destination for travelers looking to enjoy the beauty and charm of New England. With its picturesque lighthouse, stunning beaches, and quaint Main Street, there is no shortage of things to do in Chatham.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the town’s history and culture, or indulge in fresh seafood, Chatham has something for everyone.

Best Things To Do in Chatham, MA

These are the things I love most about Chatham, and tend to do over and over again whenever I am in town.

1. Watch the Seals at the Chatham Fish Pier

It’s fun to see wildlife no matter what but watching as fishermen toss their day’s catch to begging seals at the Chatham Fish PIer is especially fun.

The Fish Pier is on Shore Road less than a half mile from Chatham Bars Inn and less than a mile from Main Street. Stopping by without a car is easy for most but there is a small parking lot at the pier if you’d rather drive. Keep in mind that it’s incredibly difficult to score a spot in the height of summer.

Take your seal watching a step further with a seal boat tour.

2. Learn About Great Whites at the Shark Center Chatham

Great white sharks have a horrible reputation and their presence in Cape waters has steadily increased over the years, which hasn’t stopped people from going to the beach but certainly has stopped many from getting in the water.

This fact became crystal clear to me one day at Coast Guard Beach in Eastham when I noticed more people sitting on the beach with binoculars than swimming on a hot August afternoon.

The Shark Center educates visitors through interactive exhibits, displays, videos about the natural history and conservation of white sharks. Did you know they are a vulnerable species? The Shark Center also hosts scientist lectures covering research and public safety efforts.

3. Visit the Monomoy Wildlife Refuge

The Monomoy Wildlife Refuge spans over 7,600 acres, offering visitors the chance to explore a diverse range of habitats, including salt and freshwater marshes, sand dunes, and tidal flats. It is the perfect place for nature lovers or bird watchers.

The hiking trails lead to secluded beaches where you can watch for migratory birds from the observation tower, or take a guided tour to learn more about the wildlife and habitats found in the refuge.

4. Support Independent Books Stores

Visiting independent bookstores in Chatham is a great way to support local businesses. Make sure to check out the section with books about local topics and by local authors that all bookstores have.

Yellow Umbrella Books | Located on Main Street, Yellow Umbrella Books offers a diverse selection of new and used books, as well as gifts and stationary. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and they often host author events and book signings.

Where the Sidewalk Ends | This charming bookstore is located in a historic building on Crowell Road and specializes in children’s books, but also offers a wide variety of books for all ages. They also have a cozy reading nook and a children’s play area.

5. Window Shop on Main Street

Even if you’re not in the mood to buy anything, window shopping on Main Street is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or evening. The street is beautifully lit at night, adding to the ambiance and making for a memorable experience.

Main Street is lined with beautifully preserved historic buildings that house a diverse range of shops, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. You’ll be treated to picturesque views of the town’s iconic white steeple church, as well as the adorable flower boxes that adorn the buildings.

The shops themselves offer a wide range of merchandise, from high-end clothing boutiques and art galleries to gift shops and specialty food stores. You’ll find everything from unique jewelry and artisanal crafts to gourmet chocolates and local wines.

Many of the shops on Main Street in Chatham are locally owned and operated, which adds to the town’s unique character and provides a personalized touch to the shopping experience. You’ll often find the shop owners themselves working behind the counters, happy to chat and offer recommendations.

6. Visit the Chatham Lighthouse

The Chatham Lighthouse is an iconic landmark and must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Chatham, Massachusetts.

Visitors can take a tour of the lighthouse and learn about its rich history, including its role in guiding ships through the treacherous waters off Cape Cod, like in the the real life story in the film The Finest Hours (one of the many movies filmed on Cape Cod).

From the top of the lighthouse, you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the picturesque town of Chatham.

7. See Beautiful Pink Blossoms in the Spring

If you’re looking for a unique Instagrammable spot in Chatham, there is a stand of trees with beautiful pink flowers located across the street from Chatham Seaside Links on the corner of Seaview Street and Kettle Drum Lane. The best time to catch them in full bloom is typically mid-May.

8. Watch a Movie at the Historic Chatham Orpheum Theater

Whether you’re a movie buff or simply looking for a fun and unique experience in Chatham, the Chatham Orpheum Theater is not to be missed. The theater’s cozy atmosphere, complete with plush seats and vintage decor, makes it the perfect place to catch a movie or enjoy a night out while you’re in town.

Originally opened in 1916 as a vaudeville theater, the building was transformed into a movie theater in the 1940s and has since undergone extensive renovations to restore its historic charm. Today, the Chatham Orpheum Theater is a state-of-the-art cinema that shows a mix of current and classic films, as well as live performances and special events.

9. Attend a Cultural Event

Chatham offers a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing visitors with a chance to experience the town’s rich history and artistic community. Whether you’re interested in music, theater, or art, there is something for everyone in Chatham.

Check out the Chatham event calendar to plan ahead for any time of year.

10. Relax at the Beach

Please explore all of the activities above, but I know you really want to come to Chatham to enjoy the beaches.

All of the beaches in Chatham offer stunning views and a variety of activities for beachgoers of all ages. Make sure to bring sunscreen, towels, and plenty of water to stay hydrated in the sun!

• Lighthouse Beach
• Harding’s Beach
• Ridgevale Beach
• Cockle Cove Beach
• Oyster Pond Beach
• Pleasant Bay (Jackknife) Beach

MUST-KNOW INFO ABOUT CHATHAM BEACHES

Summer Season – Summer season typically runs from the end of June to Labor Day weekend. During that time, lifeguards (where noted) and bathroom facilities are present.

Beach Passes – Non-residents can purchase daily, weekly, and seasonal beach passes online or with cash at Harding’s, Ridgevale, or Cockle Cove.

Unique Things To Do in Chatham

I am always on the lookout for quirky little things to see when I travel. If you’re like me, you will appreciate these hidden gems in Chatham, MA.

11. Find the Home With a Tiny Replica

It’s adorable and easily accessible from Main Street, so you might as well. While you’re strolling Main Street, walk up Cross Street (behind the Chatham town offices) and look for the teal gingerbread house. There is also a Little Free Library a little further up Cross Street!

It is a private residence, so just view the replica from a distance – do not go on the property to take pictures in front of it!

12. Visit the Chatham Labyrinth

The Chatham Labyrinth is an outdoor, circular walking path made of stones, and is designed to encourage introspection and reflection. Visitors can walk the labyrinth at their own pace, either alone or in a group, as a way to quiet their minds and connect with themselves or a higher power.

It is open to the public and is free to visit, making it an accessible and peaceful attraction for anyone looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

13. Check Out the Occupy Chatham Shack

Located about a half mile up the right side of Lighthouse Beach (across from the lighthouse) is a driftwood shack that is always fun to spend time at. Not many people include this on their list of things to do in Chatham, so don’t skip this little gem while at Chatham Lighthouse Beach.

Free Things To Do in Chatham

Lots of the things I’ve listed above are free, but here are more free things to do in Chatham, MA that I am sure you will love.

• Catch a Cape Cod Baseball League Game at Veterans Field and cheer on the Chatham A’s.
• Take a stroll down Main Street and enjoy the charming architecture, unique shops, and beautiful gardens.
• Take a sunset walk on one of Chatham’s many beautiful beaches, such as Lighthouse Beach or Ridgevale Beach.
• Visit the Chatham Marconi Maritime Center and learn about the history of wireless communication and maritime navigation.
• Explore the Atwood House & Museum, which offers free admission on certain days of the week and showcases the history and culture of Chatham.
• Take a self-guided walking tour of the historic Chatham Village and discover the town’s rich history and architecture.
• Attend one of the free concerts or events held at the Kate Gould Park during the summer months.

Getting To and Around Chatham

Bringing your car (or having a rental) is the best way to get to and around Chatham. Although, it’s not the only way.

How to Get to Chatham

By Bus | Take the Plymouth & Brockton bus or the Peter Pan bus from the airport or South Station in Boston to the Hyannis Transportation Center. From there take the CCRTA H2O Hyannis-Orleans line to Chatham. If you are traveling from Providence, Rhode Island instead of Boston, take the Peter Pan bus to the Hyannis Transportation Center.

By Ferry | Ninety-minute ferry service is provided between MacMillan Wharf in Provincetown and the World Trade Center in Boston by Bay State Cruises or from Long Wharf in Boston by Boston Harbor Cruises. Then drive or take the CCRT Flex line to Chatham.

Use Rome2Rio to find the way to Chatham that works best for you.

Ways to Get Around Chatham

Bike | Biking is a popular way to get around Chatham, with several bike rental shops available in town. Bike around town or catch up with the Cape Cod Rail Trail in nearby Harwich.

• Wheelhouse Bike Co.
• Chatham Hood Bikes

Walk | Chatham is a small town and many of the main attractions, including Main Street and Lighthouse Beach, are within walking distance of each other. Several accommodations are located in downtown Chatham, making walking even easier.

Taxi & Rideshare | Several taxi companies operate on Cape Cod and can provide transportation to nearby towns and attractions. Both Lyft and Uber are available during the summer months across the Cape. They may stop altogether or just have fewer drivers during the shoulder and winter seasons.

I highly recommend having a vehicle (yours or a rental) while visiting Cape Cod!

Parking in Chatham

There are several parking options in Chatham, but it’s important to plan ahead and arrive early, especially during peak times in the summer months. Some areas may have limited parking or fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan or consider using alternative transportation if possible.

Here are some of the parking options available in Chatham:

Parking Lots | There are several large parking lots in downtown Chatham, including the Chatham Community Center lot and the Oyster Pond lot. These lots are free and offer ample parking, but they can fill up quickly during peak times.

Metered Parking | There are several metered parking spots available in downtown Chatham and near popular beaches. The meters are typically in effect from Memorial Day through Columbus Day and accept quarters or credit cards.

Street Parking | There is limited street parking available in downtown Chatham and near some of the beaches. Make sure to check the signs carefully as some areas may have time limits or be designated for residents only.

Bike Parking | If you’re traveling by bike, many of the beaches and downtown areas have bike racks available for secure parking.

Where to Eat in Chatham

I don’t eat much seafood because of my shellfish allergy, but Chatham is known for its fresh seafood. So, if you can, be sure to try some of the local restaurants that specialize in seafood dishes.

There are so many restaurants in Chatham, but here is a short list of the best restaurants in Chatham, MA to try, which serve delicious food from fast to high end.

Where to Stay in Chatham

Chatham Wayside Inn | A quaint inn located in a historic 19th-century building on Main Street, offering cozy rooms and a central location close all the best things to do in Chatham. Features an outdoor pool, restaurant and bar, and daily continental breakfast.

The Chatham Motel | A budget-friendly option with clean, comfortable rooms and a conveniently located on Route 28 close to Chatham’s best restaurants and shops.

The Hawthorne | A boutique inn located in a historic mansion overlooking Pleasant Bay in Chatham. A kitchenette provided in some rooms, perfect for guests wanting to save money on meals.

Captain’s House Inn | An elegant and charming inn housed in a historic 19th century sea captain’s estate. Less than a mile from the town center, this B&B offers spacious rooms with a fireplace, and a gourmet breakfast.

Chatham Seafarer Inn | A family-friendly inn with a pool, playground, and spacious rooms. Close to Ridgevale Beach, this hotel has a pool, in-room refrigerators, and BBQ facilities.

Chatham Tides | A beachfront hotel offering affordable townhome, suite, or efficiency style accommodations in South Chatham, next to Harwich. Amenities include a private beach and a kitchenette in select rooms.

Read More: Where to Stay On Cape Cod | All Budgets Covered!

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