It’s time to begin thinking about the summer, and with so much to choose from on the Cape—whether it’s spectacular beaches and landmarks, wonderful natural resources, or fabulous restaurants—we’ve created our own bucket list of things to see and experience this season.
1 – Whale Watch
Number 1 on our bucket list is the magical moment you observe your first whale. The season runs from April until October, lasts between 3 and 4 hours, and trips run frequently from Provincetown harbor. The tour last 3-4 hours. Take the sunset cruise from Provincetown or arrive back and enjoy an evening and dinner in this lively and flamboyant town.
2 – National Seashore, Nauset Beach
The Cape Cod National Seashore was created by President Kennedy in 1961, encompasses 43,607 acres, includes ponds, woods and 40 miles of seashore along the Atlantic-facing eastern shore of Cape Cod. I know we’re biased but our favorite has to be our own Nauset Beach, but closely followed by Fort Hill, Head of the Meadow and Race Point Beach. Spot the seals.
3 – The annual Herring Run
Number 3 on our bucket list and we love it! This annual “pilgrimage” takes place from late April for about six weeks. Herrings are anadromous, meaning that although they spend most of their lives in the ocean, they return to the same fresh water ponds or lakes where they were born to spawn. Schools of herring navigate up the streams and brooks to their spawning grounds. They gather in shallow ponds before continuing their leaping up the waterfalls and “ladders” to their final destination. Meeting them on the way up are hungry sea gulls. One such spot on route is Pains Creek directly across from Stony Creek Grist Mill and just 15 minutes from us. Not to be missed!
4 – Glorious Sunsets (and Sunrises)
Whether is amazing sunrises on the ocean side, or amazing sunsets on Bay, it’s something to be experienced. Our favorite sunset a 5 minute drive from us. Rock Harbor, is where the fishing and charter boats reside and the incoming channel is uniquely lined with young pine trees. With miles of tidal flats, it’s a wonderful spot for families and on some week evenings is accompanied by a steel drum band and ends with a round of applause.
5 – Lighthouse Tour
There are 14 lighthouses here on theCape, most are open during the season for tours and offer interesting stories and tales from their past and remain today as reminders of that bygone era. Our favorites include Chatham Light, Nauset Light and Race Point Light.
6 – Ice Cream ice cream and more ice cream
On a hot summer’s day what’s better than a large homemade ice cream cone? Cape Cod offers homemade ice cream that is to die for, wonderful flavor selections. We can’t fail to mention Smitty’s Ice Cream, just 50 yards from us, or Ice Cream Café in town and a 2 minute drive. You wont be disappointed!
7 – Bike the rail trail
With miles of trails and Orleans at the center of the former rail trail, enjoy some of the most beautiful sights, kettle ponds, cranberry bogs, numerous coffee shops and for the more adventurous many of the beaches directly from the trail. For the more adventurous, try the dunes paths in Provincetown. And with two great bikes rental stores in Orleans right on the trail, it’s a great way to enjoy the Cape and all it has to offer.
8 – Theatre and Productions
Whether it’s professional or amateur productions, the Cape is famous for its range and variety of local theatres, as well as an eclectic music scene. Our two local theatres Academy Playhouse just a 10 minute walk from the Inn and the Cape Rep Theatre in Brewster, provide a variety of productions, including for 2026, Hello Dolly, Descendants and Hairspray. There really is something for everyone.
9 – Cape Cod Baseball League
Officially formed in 1923, but with roots dating back to 1885, the Cape Cod Baseball League is the premier collegiate summer baseball league in the nation. Just up the road from us is the home of the Orleans Firebirds and experience and amazing evening starting June 14 at Elderidge Park.
Join us at the Parsonage, where you can enjoy any of our bucket list items and stay at one three options available to guests in East Orleans.
The Parson’s House is a historic and stunning seven-bedroom home all with full ensuite bathrooms, a designer fitted kitchen, two large lounges, landscaped patio and garden with jacuzzi. Available from June 19 – September 5 only
Accommodating six guests, the Parson’s Cottage is a fully equipped cozy three bedroomed home, attached to the main 250-year-old Inn. Available year round.
During the shoulder seasons, January-June, and September–November, book one of our four guest bedrooms, and enjoy the Cape’s off-season delights and of course our breakfast basket delivered directly to your room.
Reserve your room today, we look forward to welcoming you to Orleans Cape Cod soon. Enjoy!!
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