24 Things to Do in Falmouth, MA: Beaches, Museums, Scenic Views

View of Nobska Lighthouse in Falmouth Massachusetts

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If you’re looking for a charming seaside escape with plenty of things to keep you entertained, then you should visit Falmouth, MA.

This quaint Cape Cod town located on the southwestern coast boasts picturesque beaches, scenic views, historic sites, and delicious seafood.

With so many fun things to do in Falmouth MA, you’ll be busy from morning until night, or you can just find a spot on one of the beaches and chill!

Check out even more things to do on Cape Cod or jump straight to some of our other favorite towns in the area:

Falmouth, MA Things to Do

Falmouth offers plenty of fun attractions and activities, plus it’s a launching point for day trips to Martha’s Vineyard!

There are also several places in Falmouth that we recommend for a romantic getaway on Cape Cod.

Note from Amanda: I have family in Falmouth and visit often, it’s an excellent town to stay in for a Cape getaway if you’d rather avoid the typical Cape traffic and crowds!

Liam Maguire’s Irish Pub

Liam Maguire’s Irish Pub (273 Main St) is an authentic pub that features some of the best bar food and beer in the area.

You’ll love the live music events and Irish specials, like the Beef & Guinness Stew or the Irish Whiskey Steak Tips.

Martha’s Vineyard Ferry

Most of the best things to do in Falmouth involve the ocean in some way, and a short trip from Falmouth Harbor to Martha’s Vineyard by ferry is at the top of the list.

The Island Queen Ferry (75 Falmouth Heights Rd) takes just over 30 minutes to get to Martha’s Vineyard’s shore, and they offer a full snack bar on board!

Alternatively, if you want to take your car to the Vineyard then you’ll need to book in advance (way in advance during peak season!) with the Steamship Authority and leave out of Woods Hole instead of Falmouth Harbor.

Once you’re on-island, use our guide to all the best things to do on Martha’s Vineyard.

Life preserver on the ferry to Marthas Vineyard Massachusetts from Woods Hole

Museums on the Green, Falmouth Historical Society

Visiting the Museums on the Green (65 Palmer Ave), operated by the Falmouth Historical Society, is one of the nicest things to do in Falmouth, Cape Cod for history enthusiasts.

Learn about the culture of Falmouth through exhibits, collections, and incredible artifacts on the campus, which include a cultural and visitor center, two historic homes, and sprawling grounds.

Coffee Obsession

Stop by Coffee Obsession (110 Palmer Ave) for a caffeinated drink before you start exploring.

“As welcoming as your aunt’s living room,” Coffee Obsession has been a staple for Falmouth locals and visitors alike for more than 20 years.

Highfield Hall and Gardens

Highfield Hall and Gardens (56 Highfield Dr) is a historic estate, but it’s also a cultural center, conservation land, and a community gathering place.

This estate is one of the best things to see in Falmouth for families and adults alike, thanks to tons of special events, art exhibits, culinary and music events, and programming specifically for kids.

The grounds offer a pretty place to walk around outdoors, including some woodland trails for longer walks.

Inside the house, you’ll find a combination of art galleries and family history information, so both history buffs and art lovers can find something interesting.

The estate of Highfield Hall in Falmouth Massachusetts

Jack’s Restaurant and Bar

Whenever you visit a new place, it’s always fun to check out a local favorite restaurant, and Jack’s Restaurant and Bar (327 Gifford St) would be a perfect place to start.

Voted best bar, nightlife scene, and pizza in a local Cape competition, you have to stop by and try a slice and enjoy some awesome live music.

College Light Opera Company

With so many cool towns in Cape Cod, you might be wondering, ‘is Falmouth worth visiting?’

The College Light Opera Company (54 Chapoquoit Rd) is one of the best reasons to visit; this non-profit theater puts on performances all summer long with young actors, and each show is a true wonder of art and culture.

Maison Villatte

Maison Villatte (267 Main St) is a taste of Paris right in the heart of Falmouth.

There’s almost always a long line of regulars waiting to order at the counter, which is always a good sign!

The baked goods will whisk you away to France, the coffee will inject enough caffeine to keep you going for another day of activities, and the long line will let you chat with some locals to maybe find out what’s happening that weekend.

It’s a community gathering place you won’t want to skip!

Note from Amanda: I recommend the quiches for a picnic, although the desserts are impossible to pass over.

There isn’t any seating, so plan to take your goodies to go.

Quahog Republic’s Dive Bar

Quahog Republic is a unique business that combines Cape Cod fishermen and three special, local restaurants.

Both the Whaler’s Tavern and the Waterfront Eatery are incredible, but Dive Bar (97 Spring Bars Rd) is the only one located in town and is the most-awarded of the three.

Named frequently as one of the best bars in Cape Cod and the U.S., you’ve got to stop by and taste the freshest seafood you could possibly find.

Wood Neck Beach

Playing at Wood Neck Beach (98 Wood Neck Rd) is one of the best Falmouth activities, thanks to its amazing tide pools, gentle currents, and beautiful salt marsh coastal environments.

You’ll also find restrooms and showers if you need them, and there are lifeguards on duty seasonally.

Stickers are required during the summer to access the parking lot, but not for any other time of the year.

Shining Sea Bikeway

The Shining Sea Bikeway (Locus Rd Entry) is among the best Falmouth attractions for outdoor adventurers because its nearly 11-mile path connects marshes, bogs, beaches, a bird sanctuary, and woods.

Walk, bike, run, or roll on this level, paved path for as little or as long as you’d like.

The Bikeway also counts as a Woods Hole attraction, since it connects the two towns.

Spohr Gardens

Spohr Gardens (45 Fells Rd) is a 6-acre garden in the woods that features meandering paths, vibrant spring flowers, and amazing views of Nantucket Sound.

Keep an eye out for antique anchors, millstones, and some special resident butterflies!

This is a quiet spot to stroll and offers an alternative to the typical beach and lighthouse routine so common on the Cape.

Note that the garden is maintained by volunteers and is free to enter, but donations are most welcome.

Welcome to Spohr Gardens sign in Falmouth Massachusetts

Falmouth Heights Beach

Falmouth Heights Beach (Falmouth Heights Rd) is one of five major beaches in town, and this one is large enough that it doesn’t feel too crowded on busy summer days.

You’ll find lifeguards, restrooms, and food concessions, and you’ll need a sticker to park in the spacious parking lot.

Cornelia Carey Sanctuary (The Knob)

The Cornelia Carey Sanctuary (Quissett Harbor Rd), better known as The Knob, is a historic natural area that has been conserved since the late 1870s.

The Knob once served as a natural area to accompany a summer hotel, but it currently stands as a bird sanctuary and peaceful nature walk all year round.

Parking is very limited, so try to go very early in the day before it gets too crowded.

The walk is fairly flat and follows a very clear path through the woods until you reach the water once again.

Enjoy the views and the birdsong along the way!

The Knob in Falmouth Massachusetts

Woods Hole Historical Museum

The Woods Hole Historical Museum (579 Woods Hole Rd) is an appointment-only museum that features artifacts and art objects, displayed in a series of changing exhibits.

Explore upcoming events, take a walking tour, browse the museum’s online exhibits, and shop the gift store to get a sense of life through time in Falmouth.

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

If you’re looking for more things to do in Woods Hole MA (Woods Hole is a census-designated place in Falmouth), you should check out the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (266 Woods Hole Rd), a research and educational center dedicated to sharing ocean science and exploration.

Kids especially love the discovery center, a place to explore exhibits about all the amazing wonders of the ocean, including a real SharkCam used to study great white sharks!

Nobska Point Lighthouse

Nobska Point Lighthouse (233 Nobska Rd) was built in 1829 and has been a well-loved attraction for locals and visitors alike for centuries.

Explore the surrounding natural area, admire this popular destination, and fall in love with the scenic ocean views.

You’ll often see painters or other artists around here since the views are lovely whichever way you look.

Parking is available and efforts have been made to make the area accessible, but the lighthouse is positioned on a hill so there are inclined paths.

Parking is a bit tight if the museum and lighthouse are closed, but you can still snag a spot along the road to enjoy the views.

Nobska Lighthouse in Falmouth Massachusetts

Chapoquoit Beach

Loved primarily by locals, Chapoquoit Beach (158 Chapoquoit Rd) is a small, secluded spot that makes for a perfect escape from big Cape Cod crowds.

You’ll love exploring the dunes, the salt marsh, and the soft sands with an incredible view of Buzzards Bay.

Be sure to secure a parking sticker before you use the lot in the summer.

This is also a popular spot for windsurfing, so you may get a show from the athletes taking advantage of the waves and wind.

Note from Amanda: Sunset is idyllic from Chapoquoit — I try to go whenever I’m visiting Falmouth and there are always plenty of locals there enjoying the view!

Chapoquoit Beach in Falmouth Massachusetts

Old Silver Beach

Old Silver Beach (296 Quaker Rd) is one of the most popular beaches in Falmouth, mainly because of its iconic clear waters, concessions, and amazing views.

Don’t forget to look for marine life, including barnacles, fish, hermit crabs, and more.

This is also one of the only parking lots in town where a sticker is not required for the public; plus, it’s ADA accessible, complete with a ramp and beach wheelchairs.

View of Old Silver Beach in Falmouth Massachusetts

Cape Cod Winery

Among the best East Falmouth things to do for adults, Cape Cod Winery (4 Oxbow Rd) is a beautiful spot to relax after a day at the beach and to sample any of their nine amazing wines.

Offering red, white, and rosé under a charming post & beam tent, you’ll love sipping these delicious flavors all afternoon.

Be sure to check the event calendar on their website for special updates all year round.

Falmouth Country Club

The Falmouth Country Club (630 Carriage Shop Rd) is a public golf course that features 27 challenging holes, a snack bar and golf shop, and a practice facility.

This country club even has packages that are catered specifically to vacationers: a small book of golf round tickets, golf club rentals, and discounts make this a perfect option for traveling families.

Coonamessett Farm

For unique things to do in Falmouth, check out Coonamessett Farm, a 20-acre farm where you can pick your own fruits and vegetables.

There is always something exciting happening at the farm, from takeaway dinners and a café-bakery to a stocked farm market, to a full Jamaican Buffet, you’re sure to visit during a perfect time.

Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

If you’re looking for an amazing outdoor activity, you should visit the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (131 Waquoit).

With more than 2,700 acres of beaches, marshes, woods, and open waters, you’ll love hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing in this natural area.

West Falmouth Market

Whether you need some groceries or you’re looking for a delicious cooked breakfast, lunch, or dinner, West Falmouth Market (623 MA-28A) is a can’t-miss spot.

This local institution is always hopping, with neighbors chatting and catching up while awaiting a sandwich from the deli counter.

There are a few tables out front to eat or you could drive just down the road to Chapoquoit Beach to enjoy your meal with a gorgeous view.

Insider tip: The premade meals are also super delicious and perfect to enjoy back at your vacation rental after a day of sun, sand, and sea!

West Falmouth Market in Falmouth Massachusetts

Final Thoughts

We hope you had fun checking out all the amazing things to do in Falmouth listed in this guide.

If you’ve already visited, feel free to share your experience in the comments below- or if you haven’t yet, the activity you look forward to enjoying.

2 thoughts on “24 Things to Do in Falmouth, MA: Beaches, Museums, Scenic Views

  1. William MacDonald says:

    This was very informative for me I’ll be visiting Falmouth this month for the week. Looking forward to my visit.

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