When it’s the time of the year for family travel, consider an escape to the Cape.
Cape Cod, a peninsula in Massachusetts, extends about 70 miles into the Atlantic Ocean.
It’s a popular vacation destination with many beaches and picturesque lighthouses.
There are also plenty of fun things to do in Cape Cod with kids.
From zoos to museums, each of them is unique, ideal for kids and the whole family,
But have you thought of what to visit and try first?
If you’re torn, I can help.
It is a relatable problem to many.
So as a parent passionate about traveling, I visited Cape Cod and tried their must-try activities there.
I then reviewed and rated them based on age compatibility, educational value, fun factor, accessibility, and affordability.
These criteria helped me compile the best activities to try with kids.
For sure you want to know more.
So never miss a bit of my review below.
Fun Things To Do In Cape Cod With Kids Compared
Since Cape Cod offers many activities for kids, checking my in-depth review will help you pick the best.
Editor’s Choice
Heritage Museums and Gardens — Sandwich
From eye-catching sculptures to play areas, this age-friendly destination has tons of wonders and attractions to entertain everybody.
- Age Compatibility: Toddlers (1-3 years)
- Educational Value: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Affordability: 4.5/5
#2nd Best Choice
Whydah Pirate Museum — West Yarmouth
Whydah Pirate is, hands down, one of the best things to do in Cape Cod with kids.
- Age Compatibility: Preschoolers (4-5 years)
- Educational Value: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Affordability: 4/5
#3rd Best Choice
Chatham Shark Center — Chatham
Chatham Shark Center will give you hours of entertainment and loads of intriguing tidbits about the great white sharks.
- Age Compatibility: Preschoolers (4-5 years)
- Educational Value: 4.5/5
- Fun Factor: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Affordability: 5/5
Here are fun things to do in Cape Cod with kids.
1. Heritage Museums and Gardens — Sandwich (Editor’s Choice)
67 Grove St
Sandwich, MA 02563
(508) 888-3300
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From eye-catching sculptures to play areas, this age-friendly destination has tons of wonders and attractions to entertain everybody.
Ratings Criteria
- Age Compatibility: Toddlers (1-3 years)
- Educational Value: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Affordability: 4.5/5
Pros
- Good location
- Beautiful gardens
Cons
- Flowers bloom only on specific seasons or months
Why We Recommend This Activity
Heritage Museums and Gardens has all the hallmarks of an amazing day out in Cape Cod with the family.
As you visit this wondrous family-friendly spot, you can spend hours admiring its elaborate sculptures, exhibits and gardens.
Fridays at this museum bring a dazzling special treat for families, with live entertainment and musical performances.
And, while there, don’t forget to check out Hidden Hollow to experience one of the region’s top kiddie play areas.
Recommended Ages
You’ll find a variety of displays to appease visitors of all ages at Heritage Museums and Gardens.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sandwich Lodge & Resort
2. Whydah Pirate Museum — West Yarmouth
674 MA-28
West Yarmouth, MA 02673
(508) 534-9571
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Whydah Pirate is, hands down, one of the best things to do in Cape Cod with kids.
Ratings Criteria
- Age Compatibility: Preschoolers (4-5 years)
- Educational Value: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Affordability: 4/5
Pros
- A fun way of learning about pirates
- Authentic artifacts from the pirate ship Whydah
Cons
- It can get a bit crowded
Why We Recommend This Activity
Home to the world’s only pirate treasure, this interactive museum displays recovered artifacts front the infamous Whydah.
At this museum, you climb aboard a replica of this 18th-century vessel as well as see and touch the mystical 300-year-old iconic pirate treasure.
Furthermore, the museum lets you interact with the people who have helped discover these gems.
Recommended Ages
Whydah Pirate Museum is appropriate for children ages 6 and above.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Aiden by Best Western @ Cape Point
Related: Best Beaches in Cape Cod
3. Chatham Shark Center — Chatham
235 Orleans Rd
Chatham, MA 02650
(508) 348-5901
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Chatham Shark Center will give you hours of entertainment and loads of intriguing tidbits about the great white sharks.
Ratings Criteria
- Age Compatibility: Preschoolers (4-5 years)
- Educational Value: 4.5/5
- Fun Factor: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Affordability: 5/5
Pros
- You’ll learn more about sharks
- Knowledgeable staff
Cons
- Small space
Why We Recommend This Activity
With its fun water activity that kids will undoubtedly love, Cape Codder Water Park is an excellent alternative to Chatham Shark Center and Whydah Pirate Museum.
Drop by Chatham Shark Center to get the lowdown on Cape Cod’s most interesting summer visitors: the great white sharks.
With their kid-friendly, interactive videos and exhibits, this center aims to demystify the most misunderstood creature of the ocean.
And, surprisingly, it also offers a couple of cool kids activities and attractions.
There’s a large white jigsaw puzzle on its front lawn and a children’s room with interactive diversions.
Recommended Ages
We recommend Chatham Shark Center for kiddos ages 6 and above.
Also, adults and teens will have a swell exploring its one-of-a-kind displays.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Chatham Seafarer Inn
Related: Best Things to Do in Cape Cod
4. Cape Codder Water Park — Hyannis
1225 Iyannough Rd Suite #1
Hyannis, MA 02601
(508) 771-3000
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Experience 30,000 square feet of indoor aquatic fun at Cape Codder Water Park.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Cape Cod’s first and only indoor water park offers splashy family adventures, no matter what time of the year you visit it.
You can experience the park’s Wave Pool, relax in the massive jacuzzi, and zip down the high-speed water slides.
Kids may also enjoy the children’s play area, while you enjoy a snack at the Gazebo Cafe.
Recommended Ages
Cape Codder Water Park is suitable for children of all ages.
Plus, the water park also has activities for teens and adults.
5. Hyannis Harbor Cruise — Hyannis
138 Ocean St
Hyannis, MA 02601
(508) 790-0696
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See tons of beloved landmarks and learn more about the region’s past by enjoying this incredible cruise escapade.
Why We Recommend This Activity
There’s no better way to learn more about Cape Cod’s maritime history than to take a 1-hour harbor boat cruise.
Of course, Hyannis Harbor Cruise also lets you spot a number of notable landmarks, including Squaw Island, the Kennedy Memorial and the Great Island.
There are loads of surprises on this cruise as well, like their free morning cruise trips for kids.
Recommended Ages
This unique sightseeing tour is a terrific adventure for kiddos of all ages.
Truthfully, it’s a breeze and a hassle-free way to do some sightseeing even when you’re with a baby.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cape Sands Inn
Related: Places to Eat in Hyannis, MA
Also See:
Things to Do in Boston with Kids
Things for Kids to Do in Salem
6. Paine’s Creek Beach — Brewster
Paine’s Creek Beach
Brewster, MA 02631
(508) 896-4511
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Satisfy your family’s sunny and sandy adventure cravings at this picturesque natural playground.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Spend a few hours exploring this scenic hidden gem in Cape Cod.
When it’s low tide, families can walk the inlet’s flats, lounge on the tidal pools, or scramble to catch horseshoe crabs and fiddlers.
At high tide, Paine’s Creek is a great spot to splash in, swim and float on a raft.
Recommended Ages
There’s something fun and awesome for visitors of all ages at Paine’s Creek Beach.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club
7. Nickerson State Park — Brewster
3488 Main St
Brewster, MA 02631
(508) 896-3491
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Rejuvenate your weary spirit with a trip to one of the state’s most laid-back and heavenly state parks.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Want to escape your monotonous daily grind?
Well, I guess you need to indulge in a refreshing and restorative retreat at Nickerson State Park.
With crystal clear ponds and picture-perfect pine forests, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into a magical world at this state park.
Recommended Ages
Nickerson State Park has a bevy of activities suited for visitors of all ages, including hiking, walking, biking, camping and fishing.
The state park also has educational programs for the youngsters, making it one of the top family things to do in Cape Cod.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Pleasant Bay Village Resort
8. Wellfleet Drive-In Theater — Wellfleet
51 US-6
Wellfleet, MA 02667
(508) 349-7176
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Wellfleet Drive-In Theater offers a wondrous movie experience like no other.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Take a walk down memory lane with a nostalgic movie experience at Wellfleet Drive-In Theater.
Established in 1957, this drive-in theater is the last of its kind in Cape Cod, and one of the very few left in the United States.
Recommended Ages
Wellfleet Drive-In Theater has movies suited for kids of all ages.
Also, kiddos ages 3 and below are free to enter the drive-in theater.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Blue Dolphin Inn
Also See:
Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard for Kids
Kids Activities: Nantucket
9. Cape Cod Inflatable Park — West Yarmouth
518 Main St
West Yarmouth, MA 02673
(508) 771-6060
Cape Cod Inflatable Park overflows with sensational and entertaining attractions for kids and adults.
Why We Recommend This Activity
There’s no place in New England quite like Cape Cod Inflatable Park.
From adrenaline-pumping challenges and exhilarating water rides to inflatables, this extraordinary park offers non-stop fun for teens, kids and even adults.
Looking for cool things to do in Cape Cod with toddlers?
Guess what?
The park has rides, obstacles, inflatables and water slides designed for tykes 38 inches tall and below.
Recommended Ages
Cape Cod Inflatable Park is a haven of fun for visitors of all ages, offering games and features suitable for everyone.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bayside Resort Hotel
Related: Things to Do Near Cape Cod
10. Hunt Seashells — Various Locations
Cape Cod, MA
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For more cheap family-fun experiences, head to Cape Cod’s beaches with your children, and collect seashells.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Cape Cod is home to remarkable beaches where you and the little ones may hunt seashells.
Along Cape Cod, you’ll find oyster shells, calm and scallops.
To me, the best spots to hunt seashells include Cold Storage Beach, Breakwater Beach and Longnook Beach.
Recommended Ages
Seashell hunting is a terrific activity not just for moms and dads, but also for youngsters ages 3 to 12.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Frederick William House
Related: Best Restaurants in Cape Cod
11. Ryan Family Amusement — Millis
1170 Main St
Millis, MA 02054
(508) 376-1101
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Ryan Family Amusement offers lively games and diversions for the entire gang.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Wondering what to do in Cape Cod with kids when it’s raining?
Then, make sure to include Ryan Family Amusement to your list of places to take kids in Cape Cod this weekend.
With its kid-friendly bowling alleys and wide array of arcades, it’s truly an exciting stop when the weather isn’t in your favor.
Recommended Ages
Ryan Family Amusement has games and activities ideal for adults, teens and kiddos ages 3 and above.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Milford Inn
Related: Travel Tips: Cape Cod
12. Cape Cod Trail — South Yarmouth
460 Station Ave
South Yarmouth, MA 02664
(508) 896-3491
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With its gorgeous scenery and well-paved pathway, Cape Cod Trail is, no doubt, one of the most relaxing and captivating family activities in Cape Cod.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Searching for free kid-friendly things to do in Cape Cod today?
Do yourself a favor, and hit the scenic Cape Cod Trail.
Winding its way through around 6 towns in Cape Cod, this 22-mile paved pathway is perfect for biking, hiking, horseback riding and rollerblading.
What’s more, this trail is a fun, scenic and exceptional way to see Cape Cod’s natural wonders.
In fact, you’ll catch some of the Cape’s most mesmerizing ponds and beaches as you hit this trail.
Recommended Ages
Cape Cod Trail is a fantastic nature escape for adults, teens and kiddos ages 3 and up.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Aiden by Best Western @ Cape Point
13. Cape Cod Children’s Museum — Mashpee
577 Great Neck Rd S
Mashpee, MA 02649
(508) 539-8788
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Cape Cod Children’s Museum will spark your children’s passion for learning and exploration.
Why We Recommend This Activity
You can’t leave Cape Cod without paying a visit to this bright and colorful children’s museum.
With a slew of interactive exhibits, this museum provides a cheery learning environment that stimulates your children’s imagination, creativity and curiosity.
There are also programs and events that encourage the young ones to discover, touch and explore.
Recommended Ages
Cape Cod Children’s Museum is mainly designed for kiddos ages 5 months to 8 years old.
But, it can be a pretty memorable visit for adults too, thanks to its age-friendly programs.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Southcape Resort Mashpee a Ramada by Wyndham
14. Cape Cod Central Railroad
252 Main St
Hyannis, MA 02601
(888) 797-7245
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Cape Cod Central Railroad is conveniently located at the Buzzards Bay and Hyannis train stations.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Cape Cod Central Railroad is one of the most unique activities you can do in Cape Cod.
It will give you a scenic view of the marshes, cranberry bogs, and dunes.
You’ll also see other places or views only accessible by rail.
It’s a matchless way of seeing the Cape, indeed.
But which ride would you prefer?
A daytime or late afternoon ride is available here.
And a lovely meal while aboard sounds exciting.
What’s more, the tour goes on rain or shine.
Recommended Ages
Kids and adults are all welcome in this activity.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cape Cod Hyannis
15. Cape Cod National Seashore — Wellfleet
99 Marconi Site Road
Wellfleet, MA 02667
(508) 225-3421
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Be wowed by the stunning natural beauty of Cape Cod National Seashore.
Even better, the national park offers educational programs for the whole tribe.
Why We Recommend This Activity
No list of the top fun things to do in Cape Cod with kids is complete without Cape Cod National Seashore.
Besides admiring its pristine sugar-white beaches, the national park also has plenty of cheap activities, like biking and hiking.
Moreover, it has a Junior Program that offers an educational experience for the little ones.
Recommended Ages
Cape Cod National Seashore is a fun and magical pit stop for adults and children of all ages.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cape Colony Inn
Related: Best Family Resorts in Cape Cod
16. Woods Hole Science Aquarium
166 Water St
Woods Hole, MA 02543
(508) 495-2001
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Woods Hole Science Aquarium is a free attraction featuring touch tanks and a diverse collection of 140 marine species.
Why We Recommend This Activity
If you’re looking for indoor kids activities, Cape Cod, Massachusetts has you covered with this aquatic fun.
What’s not to love about a free aquarium?
Kids can get up close and personal with marine life in the touch tanks, making it a hands-on learning experience.
Plus, the variety of species on display means there’s always something new to discover.
While the aquarium may not have changed much over the years, its timeless appeal makes it a must-visit for families.
Recommended Ages
This aquarium is great for kids of all ages but is especially exciting for those between 4 and 12.
The touch tanks are a big hit with the younger crowd, while older kids can delve into marine biology.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Coonamessett
17. Paines Creek Beach
Brewster, MA 02631
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Paines Creek Beach is a natural wonderland where the tide pools take center stage.
Spend a day here and witness the landscape transform with the ebb and flow of the tide.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Kids love the sense of adventure that comes with exploring tide pools filled with crabs and other sea critters.
Paines Creek Beach is like a natural scavenger hunt.
The changing tides offer a dynamic backdrop for a full day of family activities, offering the most fun things to do in Cape Cod for kids.
Parents can relax on the beach or join in on the fun.
Just note that there are no food stalls here, so make sure to pack a picnic.
Recommended Ages
The beach is ideal for kids 5 and up who can safely explore the tide pools.
Younger kids will need close supervision.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club
18. Pirate-Themed Mini Golf
728 Main St
South Yarmouth, MA 02664
(508) 394-6200
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Pirate’s Cove and Skull Island offers more than just mini-golf.
Think waterfalls, pirate ships, and even a glowing skull for that extra flair.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Looking for kid friendly things to do in Cape Cod?
These aren’t your average mini-golf courses.
Pirate’s Cove and Skull Island go all out with themed obstacles that make every hole an adventure.
Kids will love the pirate ships and waterfalls, while parents can enjoy a fun, competitive game.
Both locations have seasonal hours, so make sure to check before you go.
Recommended Ages
These courses are fun for kids 4 and up, but the elaborate themes make it engaging for teens and adults, too.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Freebird Motor Lodge-Cape Cod
19. Cape Cod Lavender Farm
Off Weston Woods Rd
Harwich, MA 02645
(508) 432-8397
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Cape Cod Lavender Farm is a serene escape set on 11 acres, surrounded by conservation land.
With over 7,000 lavender plants, it’s a fragrant paradise.
Why We Recommend This Activity
If you’re in search of refreshing things to do with kids, Cape Cod will entice you with this stunning lavender farm.
Kids can roam freely and explore the woodland walking trails.
The lavender harvest, which happens between late June and mid-July, is a unique experience for the whole family.
Parents will love the calming atmosphere, and the photo ops are endless.
Plus, it’s free to visit, perfect if you’re planning some budget-friendly Cape Cod kids activities.
Recommended Ages
The farm is best for kids 6 and up who can appreciate nature walks and the beauty of the lavender fields.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Edgewater Beach Resort, a VRI resort
20. Monomoy Island Excursions
731 MA-28
Harwich Port, MA 02646
(508) 430-7772
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Monomoy Island Excursions offers a boat ride to a barrier island teeming with marine life.
It’s a shorter, more intimate alternative to whale-watching tours.
Why We Recommend This Activity
If you’re browsing through lists of “things to do with kids near me,” this is a top pick.
Kids will be thrilled to spot seals and other marine animals in their natural habitat.
The boat ride itself is an adventure, and the views are simply stunning.
Parents will appreciate the shorter duration compared to a full-day whale-watching tour.
It’s a win-win for everyone.
Recommended Ages
This excursion is suitable for kids 5 and up.
Younger kids may find the boat ride a bit long, but the wildlife spotting will keep them engaged.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Pelham House Resort
Activity Guide
Comparing Attractions: Which One Is Right For You?
Comparing attractions is one of the best ways to pick the right one for you.
But don’t forget that your preference and budget are the most important things to consider.
The Heritage Museums and Gardens offer a close-to-nature feel with their gardens, trails, and ponds.
But in certain seasons, flowers don’t bloom, making the garden not so enticing.
The Whydah Pirate Museum is an exciting place for kids and adults who would love to know and see pirate artifacts.
This place is small, though, and it gets crowded at times.
You’ll learn every inch about sharks in Chatham Shark Center, but this is a tiny spot like Whydah Pirate Museum.
In less than an hour, you’ll see and know everything.
Finally, every family member can splash and enjoy the waters in Cape Codder Water Park.
But their slides may be exciting only to toddlers but not to older kids.
How I Picked The Activities
Apart from being a parent, traveling and blogging are my two inseparable passions.
And that passion led me to Cape Cod.
I interviewed some locals about the best activities to do while I was there, and I followed their suggestions.
Trying those must-try activities made me pick only the best ones.
Our Rating Method
I rate these activities based on the following criteria:
- Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility.
- Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value.
- Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor.
- Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity.
- Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cape Cod A Good Place For Kids?
Cape Cod is an ideal family vacation destination with its endless supply of kids’ activities.
What Are The Top Sites For Kids In Cape Cod?
Cape Cod Children’s Museum, Heritage Museums & Gardens, and Nickerson State Park are just some sites ideal for kids.
Fun Things to Do in Cape Cod with Kids: Reddit User Recommendations
Conclusion
Wherever part of Cape Cod you are, there’s always a unique and ideal activity for you and your family.
Our Whydah Pirate Museum experience was full of exciting facts.
My kids long to be in such a place and were amazed to see the artifacts there.
We also learned the beauty and importance of sharks when we visited the Chatham Shark Center.
On the other hand, our experience in Cape Codder Water Park was to remember.
Their lazy pool and slides are pretty safe for kids, and that’s what we love about it.
But our favorite on our trip was when we got to Heritage Museums and Gardens.
The place is so huge, and my whole family loved our walk, not to mention the blooming flowers in the garden.
It was a refresher from the busy city we’re in.
Indeed there are many fun things to do in Cape Cod with kids that you shouldn’t miss.
Editor’s Choice
Heritage Museums and Gardens — Sandwich
From eye-catching sculptures to play areas, this age-friendly destination has tons of wonders and attractions to entertain everybody.
- Age Compatibility: Toddlers (1-3 years)
- Educational Value: 4/5
- Fun Factor: 4/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
- Affordability: 4.5/5
