experiences
Aquinnah Bike Ferry
Skip the road and take the water. The Aquinnah Bike Ferry is a beloved seasonal crossing that carries cyclists and pedestrians between Menemsha and Aquinnah across the mouth of Menemsha Pond. A flat-deck boat, a short hop, and one of the most scenic rides on Martha's Vineyard — with views of the outer harbor and Vineyard Sound. A must for anyone cycling the island.
Menemsha Harbor, Chilmark, MA 02535
Buzzards Bay Bikes
Parked across from Buzzards Bay Park near the Cape Cod Canal bikeway, Buzzards Bay Bikes is Jim and Pam Ballantyne's full-service cycling shop. Rent brand-new electric throttle and pedal-assist bikes, comfort step-thrus, tandems, tag-alongs, and child trailers by the hour or day, or trust their meticulous repairs, fittings, and maintenance. Bike sales, rentals, and expert tune-ups in Buzzards Bay, all paired with fast turnaround and genuinely knowledgeable, trustworthy service.
139 Main St, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532
Celebrations of Cape Cod
A beloved Falmouth Village staple, Celebrations of Cape Cod stocks a cheerful mix of Cape-themed gifts, apparel, jewelry, greeting cards, shells, locally-inspired lotions, and seasonal décor — all with complimentary gift wrap. It's the kind of shop you wander into for five minutes and come out with an armful of presents. Year-round hours make it a reliable destination even outside the summer rush.
210 Main St, Falmouth, MA 02540
Chatham Art in the Park
From June 16 through August 14, Kate Gould Park in downtown Chatham fills daily with artists and art lovers. Chatham Art in the Park is a beloved outdoor fair showcasing original paintings, photography, sculpture, and crafts by local and regional artists — with sculptures and whimsical wildlife displays on view every day, not just weekends. Visit chathaminfo.com to browse and bid on pieces.
Kate Gould Park, 15 Chatham Bars Ave, Chatham, MA 02633
Color Me Mine
At Mashpee Commons, Color Me Mine turns a blank ceramic mug or platter into your own masterpiece. This paint-your-own-pottery studio welcomes kids and adults seven days a week, with late Friday and Saturday hours, private rentals, ladies' nights, paint nights, tea soirées, and seasonal brunch events. Drop in to glaze, fire, and create, or book a Mashpee party where the whole table leaves with hand-painted Cape Cod keepsakes.
11 Greene Street Mashpee MA 02649
Ryan Family Amusements
You'll hear Ryan Family Amusements before you see it — the flashing lights and game sounds spill right out onto Circuit Avenue in the heart of Oak Bluffs. This classic arcade is packed with today's hottest skill and video games, plus a prize counter stocked with rewards for every skill level. It's one of the island's most beloved rainy-day retreats and an essential stop for families, drawing kids and nostalgic adults in equal measure. Virtual reality experiences add a modern twist to the old-school arcade energy. Located just steps from the ferry landing and the historic Flying Horses Carousel, Ryan's makes it easy to build an afternoon around play. Open daily all summer, it's a carefree throwback to summers spent chasing high scores and trading tickets for prizes.
19 Circuit Ave, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
Timber Axe Bar & Bowl
Falmouth's most unique night out combines candlepin bowling lanes and axe throwing bays under one roof alongside a full craft cocktail bar and wood-fired pizza. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or just looking for something beyond the usual bar scene, Timber Axe delivers serious fun in a lively, well-designed space. It's become a go-to for groups on the Upper Cape.
23 Town Hall Square, Falmouth, MA 02540