Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chatham, MA to Sandwich, MA
Are you planning a coastal road trip in Massachusetts and wondering where you can make some interesting stops? Look no further than the drive from Chatham to Sandwich. Located on the Cape Cod peninsula, this route offers scenic views, fascinating historical sites, and delicious local food. With about 30 miles between these two towns, you can make the trip in under an hour, but why rush? Take your time and explore these five unexpected places to stop along the way.
Halfway Point: Hyannis, MA
Before we dive into the lesser-known places, let's take a moment to appreciate Hyannis, MA. As the largest town on Cape Cod, Hyannis attracts tourists year-round with its beaches, shopping centers, and cultural events. But you don't have to go to the crowded areas to have a good time. For example, visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum to learn about the famous president's life and family's connection to Cape Cod. Another great spot is Kalmus Beach, a favorite among windsurfers for its strong winds and clear waters.
1. Marconi Beach
Located in the Cape Cod National Seashore, Marconi Beach offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a quiet atmosphere away from the crowds. Named after Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi, who conducted experimental radio transmissions from this spot in the early 1900s, the beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Take a short walk up to the dunes and witness a panoramic view that will take your breath away. End your visit with a snack of lobster roll at nearby Solstice Restaurant.
2. Eastham Windmill
For a charming New England experience, make a stop at Eastham Windmill. Built in 1680, this historic landmark is one of the oldest working windmills in the United States. Visitors can take a tour of the inside and learn how the mill grinds cornmeal and wheat flour. Just across from the windmill, you will find the Schoolhouse Museum, where you can explore the town's early education system, including photos and artifacts from the one-room schoolhouses.
3. Cape Cod Lavender Farm
If you love the fragrance and beauty of lavender, you can't miss the Cape Cod Lavender Farm in Harwich. Covering about 12 acres, this farm grows French and English lavender and offers tours, workshops, and a gift shop selling various lavender products. Walk around the fields and marvel at the purple hues and the buzzing bees, or try your hand at making a lavender wreath or sachet. And don't leave without trying the farm's lavender ice cream, a favorite among locals.
4. Green Briar Jam Kitchen
Located in East Sandwich, the Green Briar Jam Kitchen is a hidden gem for foodies and history buffs alike. This vintage kitchen, established in 1903, produces a variety of jams, jellies, and relishes using locally grown fruits and vegetables. Visitors can take a guided tour of the kitchen, which includes a history of the founder, Mary Louisa Saltonstall, and her contributions to the Sandwich community. After the tour, treat your taste buds to a sample of the farm's signature grapefruit marmalade or blueberry jam.
5. Sandwich Boardwalk
What better way to end your road trip than a leisurely stroll on a scenic boardwalk? The Sandwich Boardwalk, a 1350-foot pathway over the salt marsh, offers picturesque views of the Cape Cod Bay and the Sandwich Harbor. Built in 1875, the boardwalk was originally used as a dock for ships and boats. Today, it serves as a popular tourist attraction and a romantic spot for a sunset walk. Take your time and absorb the natural beauty of the surrounding wildlife, then reward yourself with a cup of clam chowder at the beachside cafe.
Conclusion
As you can see, the drive from Chatham to Sandwich has more to offer than just pretty scenery. By visiting these five unexpected places, you can learn about Cape Cod's history, culture, and nature while satisfying your taste buds with local delicacies. So, next time you're in the area, take a break from the usual tourist destinations and embark on a road trip full of surprises.