Things To Do
in Sandwich
Sandwich, Massachusetts is Cape Cod's oldest town, founded in the 17th century, with a well-preserved village center along Route 6A. The town sits on Cape Cod Bay and the shores of the Cape Cod Canal, offering marshes, historic sites, and scenic coastal views. Its quiet, family-friendly atmosphere provides easy access to museums, gardens, and waterfront dining.
Visitors are drawn to its New England charm, long-standing heritage, and relaxed pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a stroll through Sandwich Village, one of the oldest towns on Cape Cod. Visit the Sandwich Glass Museum, where you can learn about the town's rich glassmaking history and browse beautiful handcrafted pieces. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, wander along the picturesque Sandwich Boardwalk that extends into the serene marshlands. Consider a picnic at Sandwich Town Beach, enjoying the gentle waves and scenic views. Don't forget to explore the nearby Heritage Museums & Gardens, where you can admire stunning landscapes and art exhibits.
As the sun sets, dine at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking Cape Cod Bay. Experience fresh seafood specialties while taking in the beautiful twilight scenery. After dinner, relax with a leisurely stroll on the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Set off early to Sandwich Town Beach, where the soft sands and gentle surf await. Enjoy a peaceful morning swim or simply relax on the beach with a good book. Refuel with a beach-side breakfast from a nearby food truck, featuring local favorites.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Sandwich Boardwalk, a charming wooden walkway leading through scenic marshes. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and other coastal creatures. Stop for lunch at a local diner that serves hearty New England fare.
At twilight, gather around a beach bonfire for a classic Cape Cod experience with friends and family. Roast marshmallows and share stories under the stars as the waves lap at the shore. Conclude the evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar nearby.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $120-220 |
| 🚗Gas for 100 miles | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and a charming New England village atmosphere
- Strong seafood scene and easy access to coastal nature
- Can be crowded in peak summer months
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities nearby
Places to Visit in Sandwich
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic boardwalk along the canal offering water views, boats, and sunset backdrops.
Expansive gardens, sculpture, and reflective water features ideal for wide-angle and macro photography (seasonal).
Historic mill with waterwheel and quaint exterior angles for period-piece shots.
Colonial-era architecture and charming streetscapes perfect for nostalgic photography.
Food in Sandwich
Sandwich Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chilled or warm lobster meat in a buttered roll, a Cape Cod staple best enjoyed near the water.
Must-Try!
Creamy, chunky chowder with tender clams and potatoes; a comforting coastal classic.
Crispy, golden-brown clams served with tartar sauce and lemon.
Buttery, perfectly seared scallops with a light lemon garnish—often featured in seafood restaurants around town.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, seafood, and prepared foods.
Casual stands and trucks along town lanes offering lobster rolls, fried seafood, and beach snacks during high season.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect residential neighborhoods, especially at night. Keep noise down and park considerately.
Stay off protected dunes and comply with local beach regulations to protect habitats.
Ask before entering private properties or gardens; observe posted signs and respect tour hours.
Safety
Tipping in Sandwich
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard for good service. A smaller tip is common for casual counters; rounding up at a cafe is acceptable.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is often available at smaller venues. Some seaside shacks may prefer cash; check before ordering.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, breezy days with peak beach and outdoor activity. Expect crowds around popular waterfront spots and longer daylight hours.
Mild temperatures with vivid fall foliage along Route 6A. Great for quieter exploring and scenic drives.
Cold, with potential coastal winds. Some outdoor sites may have limited access, but museums and shops remain welcoming.
Blossoms and wildlife emerge; pleasant walking weather and fewer crowds before the summer rush.
Sandwich at Night
Hiking in Sandwich
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic multi-use path along the canal perfect for easy hikes and bike rides with water views.
Wooded trails suitable for short hikes, birdwatching, and gentle nature walks.
Coastal dunes and beach access with wind-swept vistas and seasonal trails.
Pine and forested trails with a combination of rolling terrain and scenic ponds.
Airports
How to reach Sandwich by plane.
Located in Hyannis, the closest airport with regional flights and car rental options.
Major hub about 70 miles away; good for international and domestic connections.
Providence, Rhode Island area airport about 60-75 miles away; connects to many cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many visitors are families seeking a relaxed coastal experience with kid-friendly activities.
Seasonal residents and retirees enjoy the quieter pace and historical ambiance.
Summer crowds arrive for beaches, gardens, and marine leisure; the town adapts with longer hours and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cape Cod waters are ideal for sailing, with abundant lightweight boats and charters.
Seasonal beach games are common at warmer beach locales and harbor fronts.
Inshore and charters for striped bass, bluefish, and other local species.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sandwich.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafes and restaurants in Sandwich offer vegetarian options such as salads, veggie sandwiches, pastas, and seasonal vegetables. Inform staff of dairy or egg exclusions when needed.
Many spots can accommodate gluten-free meals; ask about bread, fried foods, and sauces that may contain gluten.
Ask about cross-contamination in kitchens; many places can prepare non-seafood dishes clearly labeled on the menu.