7 Unique Reasons to Visit Cape Cod In The Fall

Cape Cod, Massachusetts is a popular summer destination for many beach goers. But did you know that autumn can be just as appealing? Here you’ll find the red, yellow and orange hues common to New England in fall, along with various other autumn features that make the Northeast a popular fall destinatinon. The best part is you can still bask in some of those warm summer temperatures and enjoy everything “the Cape” has to offer without the crowds. So when the air temperatures start to drop, and sun bathing becomes less appealing, we’ve got seven unique reasons to visit Cape Cod in the fall.

Watch for Great White Sharks

That’s right, September and October are prime time for great white sharks in Cape Cod waters. Research shows that these are actually the busiest months for white sharks here. They continue to feed on grey seals in the warm waters that summer has left behind. For some lucky onlookers, the occasional attack by a shark on a seal can be seen right from the beach.

Over the last several years, great white shark numbers have increased in the area, and the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy has the research to prove it! Over the last decade, the Massachusetts Divison of Marine Fisheries has been tagging white sharks in the Northwest Atlantic ocean.

If you’re looking to get on the water, companies like Monomoy Sportfishing and White Shark Tours Cape Cod offer white shark tours. Otherwise, you’ll want to head to the beaches along the outer Cape, from Chatham up to Provincetown, in your search. Should you happen to spot one of these magnificent creatures, be sure to take a photo and log it in the app Sharktivity. You can also use the app to stay updated on where the latest sightings have been.

Visit The Edward Gorey Museum

Mr. Gorey’s ghastly tales are the perfect match for a fall escape to the Cape. Known for his dark character’s, Edward Gorey was a Cape Cod celebrity in his day, and you can walk the halls of the home he left behind after passing in the year 2000. If you’re a fan of his work, you’ll find many pieces here, as well as a gift shop full of souvenirs to commemorate your visit. The knowledgable staff are happy to share stories of Mr. Gorey’s life to accompany the rotating exhibitions the museum has to offer. You’ll even embark on a scavenger hunt for all 26 of his Gashleycrumb Tinies, from Amy to Zillah, hidden throughout the Edward Gorey House.

Take In Fall Foliage Along The Canal

If you’ve traveled to Cape Cod, you’ve certainly seen the canal when crossing one of the two bridges (Sagamore and Bourne). The canal is about seven miles (11 km) long and connects Buzzards Bay to Cape Cod Bay, and is lined by a path on each side. Thesepaths are accessible by various parking lots along either side of the canal and the foliage in fall is delightful! Whether you decide to walk, run, bike or fish your way along the canal, you won’t regret this opportunity to take in the fall air.

Cape Cod Central Railroad also offers a foliage experience if you’re more the type to it back and enjoy the ride. Sit back and relax during a 2-hour train ride past cranberry bogs and colourful forests.

Frolic in the Fog

Fall is a fogy time of year! And where better to enjoy it than rolling along the seashore. As the crisp fall temperatures begin to encroach on what remains of the summer’s warmth, they clash to create fog for our viewing pleasure! Early morning is the best time to spot it, so bring a warm cup of coffee or tea along for the show. Head to the beach, a lighthouse, the canal or even a cranberry bog for the best display.

Drop By a Cranberry Bog

Cape Cod is known for cranberries. These sour little berries, made popular by Thanksgviving and Ocean Spray are native to the cooler Northeast climate. And they are just ripe for the picking in September through November. As the berries and their foliage mature, you won’t mistake these low growing, burgundy fields for anything but a cranberry bog.

Discover Local Breweries

Without the crowds! Over the last few years, several breweries have opened up all along the Cape. Whether you are looking for a piney IPA or a chocolatey stout, there are plenty of locally brewed libations available around the Cape. And if you don’t get a chance to visit them all, you can pick up a pack to take home with you for later.

Here is a list of the Cape Cod breweries for your enjoyment:

• Devils Purse Brewing Co. 120 Great Western Rd, South Dennis
• Barnstable Brewing 485 W Main St, Hyannis
• Cape Cod Beer 1336 Phinneys Ln, Hyannis
• Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery 876 E Falmouth Hwy, Falmouth
• Aquatic Brewing 661 Main St, Falmouth
• Tree House Brewing Company 98 Town Neck Rd, Sandwich
• Naukabout 13 Lake Ave, Mashpee
• Hog Island Beer 28 West Rd, Orleans

Absorb Some Autumn Decor

Of course, it wouldn’t be fall without a little Halloween fun and decor! You’ll find all the ghost, goblins and ghouls you see anythwere else, but with a classic Cape style background. Pumpkins and mums adorn the porches of all those Cape Cod cottages that were lined by summer’s blue hydrangeas not long before.

If you’re visiting by car and looking to stock up on pumpkins and mums, visit Tobey Farm or Tony Andrews Farm on this trip as well. Looking for something a little more spooky? If so, a ghost tour might be right up your alley!

Have you ever visited Cape Cod in the fall? Start planning your trip here by starting with your accomodations.

Looking for more things fun to do in New England? Be sure to visit New Bedford and Fall River, only 45 minutes to an hour’s drive west of Cape Cod.