Cape Cod offers several options to choose from even on a rainy day. You can watch movies, go shopping, and explore museums. If not, cozy up with a book, enjoy a winery, savor chowder, or pamper yourself at a spa. You can also watch storms at the Chatham Lighthouse, attend live performances, or take a scenic train ride. Other activities include bowling, art galleries, mini golf, escape rooms, and ice skating.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, don’t let a little rain get you down in Cape Cod. There’s always something exciting waiting for you, no matter the weather. Let’s delve into the details of every fun activity.
What to do on a Rainy Day on Cape Cod?
Cape Cod is well known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. However, if the weather doesn’t favor in your visit, it might spoil the mood.
No need to worry. There are lots of things to do indoors and cozy stuff to enjoy when it’s raining. Here are the top 10 things to do in Cape Cod to give you a fantastic time regardless of the weather.
Watch a Movie
A classic rainy day activity is catching a movie at one of Cape Cod’s theaters. The Cape offers a variety of theaters, from large complexes to charming local cinemas. You can find theaters in Hyannis, Dennis, and various small venues.
The Chatham Orpheum Theatre is only a short walk from many inns and is a fantastic choice. This special movie place has cozy chairs, a bar, and pretty artwork.
You can watch new big movies, artistic films, indie movies, and documentaries, even ones made in the local area.
Bar inside
Do Some Shopping
Going shopping can make you feel happier when the weather is less than perfect. Chatham Main Street is the perfect place to browse antiques or find unique souvenirs for your wardrobe.
From Brewster to Provincetown, you’ll find charming boutiques, antique stores, and eclectic shops that offer something for everyone.
Explore Local Museums
Cape Cod is home to several museums to explore for the tourists.
Cape Cod boasts a rich history, and there are plenty of museums waiting to be explored. These museums cover a wide range of collections, offering insights into the region’s unique heritage. Some notable options include:
- Atwood House Museum: Know the background of Chatham.
- Marconi Maritime Museum: Discover the station to receive wireless signals.
- Railroad Museum: Go check out an old train station.
- Sandwich Glass Museum: Delve into the world of glass art.
- Whydah Pirate Museum: Check out a special view of how pirates lived in the early 1700s.
- Museum of Natural History: Explore 8,000 years of natural history.
These museums are not only informative but also engaging, making them perfect for a rainy day excursion.
Cozy Up with a Book
If you’re staying at a cozy inn with a fireplace and a large spa bathroom, you’ve got the perfect retreat.
Most inns on Cape Cod offer a collection of books so that you can pick your favorite. Now grab some freshly baked cookies and a cup of tea, and enjoy a day of relaxation.
Enjoy A Tour of Wineries or Breweries
You can enjoy the tastes of the area and even enjoy live concerts at some of these locations. A rainy day is an excellent opportunity to check out some beers and wines from around here.
Cape Cod has lots of places where they make beer and wine. You can visit them, take a tour, and taste their drinks. Some recommended options include:
- Hog Island Beer Company
- Martha’s Vineyard
- Cape Cod Beer
- Truro Vineyards
- Devil’s Purse
Not only do these establishments offer great beverages, but they also provide a fun and educational experience.
Meanwhile, you can give a read to Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard.
Hunt for the Finest Chowder
Warm up on a rainy day with a steaming bowl of chowder, a Cape Cod classic. Mac’s Seafood in Chatham is renowned for serving some of the best chowders on the Cape.
They even offer a variety of seafood sourced locally, including shrimp, crabs, oysters, and other special foods from Cape Cod. It’s a delicious way to indulge and take the chill out of a rainy day.
Have A Spa
Cape Cod has lots of great places for spas. They provide you with different treatments like massages, manicures, and other body services. It’s an opportunity to relax and recharge, indulging in some pampering and self-care while the rain falls outside.
Find a tranquil retreat for your body and soul at one of Chatham’s soothing spas.
Witness the Excitement of Storm-watching
If you enjoy the drama of storms, take a chance on a rainy day to go storm-watching. Get some sandwiches and go to the Chatham Lighthouse beach parking lot with a view of the Atlantic.
From the comfort of your car, you can watch the big waves crashing and capture some stunning photographs.
If the weather gets all shiny, you can enjoy the beach and swim in Cape Cod.
Attend a Live Performance
Cape Cod has many places for live shows. You can see theater shows, music shows or other performances. On a rainy day, attending a live performance can be a fantastic way to chase away the blues.
You’ll find a variety of shows and performances, so check the local listings for what’s playing during your visit.
Embark On a Scenic Train Journey
A soothing way to check out the pretty nature on Cape Cod without getting soaked is to have a train ride with scenic beauty. The Cape Cod Central Railroad provides picturesque tours through Wetlands, cranberry fields, waterways, and sandy landscapes, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
You can relax, savor the journey, and even have a meal while on board. It’s a unique way to experience the Cape’s natural beauty in bad weather.
Other Activities
Cape Cod offers a wealth of other indoor activities for rainy days. You might also want to explore these additional choices:
Enjoy some family-friendly fun with bowling at various bowling alleys, such as in Yarmouth, Orleans, and Falmouth.
Explore the diverse art galleries of Cape Cod, each offering a unique selection of art forms and mediums.
A little rain won’t dampen your fun on Cape Cod’s mini golf courses. Put through caves, under waterfalls, and around iconic Cape Cod scenes.
Challenge your problem-solving skills with interactive adventure games in Escape Rooms and Mashpee, such as “The Game of Pirates” or the family-friendly “Gingerbread Cottage” room.
You can even try public ice-skating rinks located in various towns across Cape Cod.
Bonus: Give a read to Cape Cod vs Hamptons to decide your next trip destination.
Cape Cod offers a wealth of options for making the most of a rainy day. From indoor activities like- movies, and exploring museums, to outdoor fun with storm-watching or rail visits, Cape Cod has got you covered.
Closing Words
I hope now you have options for multiple things to do in Cape Cod when it rains.
You can make a rainy day fun and memorable on the Cape. Embrace the rain, explore these fantastic options, and Get the best out of your visit to this beautiful region.