Looking for the best and fun things to do in Sandwich, MA?
Sandwich is a city in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, and it is the oldest town on Cape Cod. The city is home to vast historic buildings and antique stores, where you can find quality items that display the life of early residents of the beautiful city.
Sandwich is also home to beautiful and exciting places, such as picturesque beaches, museums, breathtaking sceneries, one-of-a-kind shopping centers, top-rated restaurants, and other hidden gems waiting for you to discover.
Here are the top fun things to do in Sandwich, Massachusetts.
Things to Do in Sandwich, MA
1. Explore Boardwalk
Boardwalk
Are you a nature lover? Do you love to stroll in a lovely and peaceful area? Go to the Boardwalk in Sandwich and immerse yourself in nature, beauty, and features. Take a walk from the hotel nearby to the Boardwalk.
A boardwalk is a historic place about a 1,500foot-long timber boardwalk, and it was initially constructed in 1875 by Gus Howland to access the beach and traverse the marsh over Mill Creek. The Boardwalk features a great beach setting; it offers a great view of the beach and marshland.
There are lots of parking spaces. Visit the Boardwalk with your lover or friends to e you walking on the beach or explore the walkway along the marshland. You can either read in the quiet area or meditate as you enjoy the fresh air.
Address: Sandwich, MA 02563
2. Heritage Museums & Gardens
Heritage Museums & Gardens
The Heritage Museums and Gardens is one of Sandwich, Massachusetts’s top things to do. There are so many interesting historical stories and items to explore.
The 18,000 items in the museum collections celebrate people’s work, culture, leisure, and life in southeastern New England, emphasizing Cape Cod and the islands. In addition, heritage Museums and Gardens host indoor and outdoor changing exhibitions season.
You will also discover over 70-acres of gardens when you visit the art and history museums at the Heritage. Mr. and Mrs. J.K. Lilly III opened
Heritage Museums and Gardens in 1969. The Museum features automobiles, collections of American folk arts, Currier and Ives, lithographs, Elmer Crowell bird carvings, paintings by Ralph and Martha Cahoo, plus a 1908 working carousel.
The gardens feature exquisite flowers, acres of trees and shrubs, sweeping lawns, and picturesque designed gardens.
Address: 67 Grove St, Sandwich, MA 02563-2110
3. Route 6A (The Old King’s Highway)
Route 6A (The Old King’s Highway)
Explore Route 6A (The King’s Highway) on the northern, or bayside, Cape Cod. Route 6A paves its way through some of the oldest villages in America, including Bourne, Sandwich, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Brewster, and Orleans.
Most of the homes and churches along Route 6A- the tree-shaded road, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. So if you love exploring historical sites and discovering new things, visit Route 6A to find what Cape Cod looked like before tourists discovered it.
You will also find some best quaint little stores in New England as you visit Route 6A. Exploring Route 6A is one of the fun things to do in Sandwich, Massachusetts.
4. Sandwich Glass Museum
Sandwich Glass Museum
If you are on holiday in the amazing city and love exploring museums, ensure you go to the Sandwich Glass Museum, as you will find and learn exciting stories about the city and its surroundings.
Sandwich Glass Museum explains the history of the Boston and Sandwich Glass Company. Incorporated in 1907, the Museum is dedicated to promoting a vast understanding and appreciation of Sandwich town history, preserving, marketing, and collecting Sandwich glass materials concerning the production.
The Museum also offers a memorable educational experience to the public through the Museum’s collections, exhibitions, educational programs, library, communications, products, and publications. The entrance to the Museum and parking area is on Tupper Road. During Summer, the Museum is open daily from April 1 – to December 30 from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm.
Address: 129 Main St, Sandwich, MA 02563-2233
5. Cape Cod Canal Visitors Center
Cape Cod Canal Visitors Center
The Cape Cod Canal is a 17.4-mile navigable waterway operated and maintained by the United States Army-Corps of Engineers in the New England District. The primary mission of the Cape Cod Canal is to offer a safe transit for the approximately 15,000 vessels that use the Canal every year.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers serves as a steward of over 1,100 acres of Federal lands that surround the Canal; they offer a variety of recreational opportunities along both sides of the Canal.
Over 3 million visitors visit the Cape Cod Canal to enjoy hiking, fishing, biking, picnicking, and ship watching. Although there are many interesting things to do in the area, be sure to go with your loved ones to have fun.
6. The Hoxie-House
The Hoxie-House
The Hoxie House is well-known as one of the oldest homes on Cape Cod, built-in 1637. The house reflects life in the town of Sandwich in the 17th-century. The building is one of the places you need to visit in the city to discover exciting stories, including the family with thirteen children that once lived there.
You will find a saltbox named after a whaling captain who owned the house in the mid-1800s. The Hoxie House is the first-period house, restored and furnished to reflect early colonial construction with exciting features such as gunstock posts, pumpkin-pine Maine beams, and wide floorboards.
Step back into time to discover history as you explore Hoxie House. You will also find furniture that came from the 17th century.
Address: 18 Water St, Sandwich, MA 02563-2310
7. Scusset Beach State Reservation
Scusset Beach State Reservation
Scusset Beach provides 98 R.V. sites with five tent-only campsites, hook-ups. The beach is filled with significant coastal areas waiting for you to discover them.
Enjoy camping, swimming, hiking, and fishing. If you love hiking, you will experience one of the best hikes at the Cape Cod Canal Pathway, approximately seven miles long. Some lifeguards are usually on duty during the park’s hours.
Address: 20 Scusset Beach Rd., Sandwich, MA 02563
8. Sandy Neck Beach
Sandy Neck Beach
Sandy Neck Beach makes our list of the top things to do in Sandwich, MA. The beach offers numerous beach areas where you can layout in the sun on the sand while enjoying the view of the incredible ocean.
Sandy Neck Beach covers about 4,700 acres of land. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, paddle boarding, and many others with your friends or family.
If you also like horseback riding or biking, you will find some company at Sandy Neck Beach that will permit you to enjoy a tour. Visiting the beach is worth your time.
Address: Sandy Neck Rd, Sandwich, MA 02668
Planning a road trip to Massachusetts? also, check out our list of things to do in Rogers and things to do in Fall River for a fun Massachusetts trip
9. Dexter’s Grist Mill
Dexter’s Grist Mill
Dexter Grist Mill offers a mid-17th century grist mill, resting in the heart of Sandwich from Monday through Sunday. The mill is one of the best things to do in Sandwich, Massachusetts.
Originally constructed in 1854, A single-family managed dexter’s Grist Mill before becoming a museum in 1967. In 1975, Dexter’s Grist Mill was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a historic destination. You can also take excellent pictures in the picturesque environment.
Dexter Grist Mill is a fully operating site that sells fresh bags of their famous cornmeal; the mill is the perfect spot for anyone looking for a gorgeous view, an educational adventure, plus a slice of local history. Take a tour around the mill to learn about the past or buy some bags of cornmeal.
Address: 2 Water St, Sandwich, MA 02563-2310
10. Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen
Green Briar Nature Center & Jam Kitchen
Green Brair Nature Center and Jam Kitchen is a spectacular spot with the best nature trails, gardens, and a jam-making kitchen. Go with your friends or family to the Green Brair Nature Center and Jam Kitchen to explore the natural area.
The Green Brair Nature Center is designed to inspire reverence for wildlife and concern for the natural environment, as seen in the writings of conservationist and naturalist Thornton W. Burgess. Enjoy a wonderful nice walk with your friends or family in the garden, walk on the well-maintained trails.
You will discover many creatures in the Green Brair Nature Center, such as frogs, turtles, rabbits, and many others. You will also find lovely flowers; make sure to go along with your camera to take photos in the picture center.
Address: 6 Discovery Hill Rd, East Sandwich, Sandwich, MA 02537-1316
11. McDermott Glass Studio
McDermott Glass Studio started its journey in 2002 with David McDermott and his wife Yukimi Matsumoto; the Glass Studio was built in their backyard in Sandwich, Massachusetts.
Visiting the McDermott Glass Studio is one of the best things to do in Sandwich, Massachusetts. David’s skill in traditional Scottish glassblowing and Yukimi’s incredible design meet perfectly, and they create beautiful pieces of art. So if you’re in search of where to find artistic items in the city, the Glads Studio is one of the excellent places to explore.
When you visit the studio, you will discover and learn the artistic process of glass blowing. David McDermott was trained by a Scottish master Robert Mason, and all the studio staff is proudly working with the Scottish way of glassblowing.
McDermott Glass Studio is open to everyone, and it opens every Wednesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Address272 Cotuit Rd, Sandwich, MA 02563-2493
12. Glass Studio on Cape Cod
Glass Studio on Cape Cod
There is a Glass Studio on Cape Cod, and glasses have been made in the area for generations. The city has been famous for more than one hundred years for its “Sandwich Glass,” which makes the region one of the perfect places to visit in Sandwich.
You will meet Michael Magyar, a glassblower, as he continues the tradition at the “Glass Studio on Cape Cod.” Micheal creates glasses that fit well in any private collection or Museum at an affordable price.
You will also see a gift shop at Glass Studio on Cape Cod. The studio is a family-owned business that was founded in 1992. Michael Magyar makes sculptures of steel, concrete, glass lamp, shades, and others; his “Giants” sculptures light up the town during the holiday season.
Address: 470 Route 6a, East Sandwich, Sandwich, MA 02537-1439
13. Shawme-Crowell State Forest
Shawme-Crowell State Forest
Shawme-Crowell State Forest is a 700-acre pitch pine and scrubs oak forest situated at the western end of Cape Cod. The forest offers over 15-miles of trails for horseback riding and hiking. In addition, there are lots of fun things to do in the area.
If you’re on vacation with your family or friends, visit the Shawme-Crowell State Forest, as you will experience memorable adventures. There are more than 285 camping sites in a wooded setting, alongside enjoyable camping activities.
There’s a basketball court in the area. You can also host a picnic as there are picnic areas, pavilions, and grills. In addition, there are well-maintained restrooms, showers, and a nature center. You can also plan your wedding and other special events on the site.
Address: 42 Main St, Sandwich, MA 02563-2102
14. Sandwich Fish Hatchery
Sandwich Fish Hatchery
At the Sandwich Fish Hatchery, you will find different kinds of fish that you will love to feed. If you love exploring water creatures or playing with them, the hatchery is the right place.
You will enjoy a self-guided tour with one of their friendly tour guides as you walk around the hatchery to discover different species of fish swimming in the waters of Sandwich Fish Hatchery.
You will also know about the different types of fishes seen in the hatchery, including the Brook, Rainbow, Tiger Trouts, etc., which are grown and hatched. It will be fun if you visit the hatchery with your loved ones.
Address: Route 6A, Sandwich, MA 02563
15. Crow Farm
Crow Farm
The Crow Farm is a 50-acre family farm situated outside historic downtown Sandwich on Cape Cod. Since 2020, the farm has offered wholesale produce like tomatoes and peaches, bedding plants, and herbs to local farm stand across Cape Cod.
Crow Farm offers a pick-your-own program seasonally, where you get to pick your fruits from their farm, which you will love to purchase. You will find fresh produce like apples, pumpkins, corn, maize, etc.
As you visit the farm, go with a wagon to cart tired kids to the orchards or carry your pumpkins and apples back to your vehicle.
Address: 192 Route 6a, Sandwich, MA 02563-2050
Meet the top attractions in Massachusetts, here is a guide on the top things to do in Falmouth, and the top attractions in Springfield.
16. Sandwich Town Hall
Sandwich Town Hall
Sandwich Town Hall was established in 1835 and restored in 2009. If you love to explore historic places, the Town Hall is a perfect site to visit.
The second-floor theater and ballroom are gorgeous with their historically perfect ceiling stenciling of tan and brown paint and gold leaf. In the early 1900s, silent films
are were presented complete with a live piano accompaniment in Sandwich Town Hall.
Sandwich Town Hall was granted a Preservation Award for Rehabilitation and Restoration by the Massachusetts Historical Commission in 2011. Visit the hall to discover exciting things about the city.
This makes what to do in Sandwich, MA, for a fun exploration, do add to your checklist of things to do in Sandwich, MA.
Address: 130 Main St, Sandwich, MA 02563-2208
17. The Sandwich Bazaar Flea Market
The Sandwich Flea market also called the Sandwich Bazaar, is a market where you will find home items for your house decòr, food items, plus other fresh produce.
Some vendors sell items out of their cars or set up a few tables to display their goods, while visitors wander through Oakcrest Cove Field to see what kinds of deals they can discover.
Shoppers come from the Cape and beyond to find the available items for purchase each day. The summer market of the Flea market opens every Wednesday between 6:00 am and noon from the middle of June till late October, and on Sundays between the middle of June and September, ending from 7:00 am till noon.
You will get the chance to interact with the locals in the market and find gift items you will love to get for your loved ones.
Address: 34 Quaker Meeting House Rd, Sandwich, MA 02563-5102
18. Sandwich Antiques Center
Exploring the Sandwich Antiques Center is one of the top things to do in Sandwich, Massachusetts.
The center is one of the finest spot antique galleries in New England. It consistently attracts people of all ages with an eye for interest and an appreciation for quality and craftsmanship worldwide.
Sandwich Antiques Center is rated “Best of the Cape,” with five thousand square feet of vast, engaging, and quality antiques. You will find amazing furniture, fine art, jewelry, home accessories, sculptures, photography, modern and eclectic items, and many others.
Be kind to stop by the antique store during your holiday, as they will help you with the beautiful one-of-a-kind piece that will add beauty to your room or outfit.
Address: 131 Route 6a, Sandwich, MA 02563-2017
19. Sandwich Public Library
Sandwich Public Library
The Public Library is a member of the Old Colony Library Network and a resource-sharing cooperative of 29 libraries (26 public and three academics). If you love reading interesting or historical materials documents, the library is perfect for you.
Do not forget to request a library card, as it entitles you to borrow privileges at each library. Materials are delivered between libraries every day. The Sandwich Library Public Library offers services like public computer workstations, free Wi-Fi, Downloadable digital media including e-books, e-audiobooks, magazines, music, movies, T.V. shows, and a Weekly e-newsletter.
They also provide Author visits, Adult, teen, and children’s programming, a Summer reading program, home of the Sandwich Town Archives historical and genealogical collection, and many others.
Address: 142 Main St, Sandwich, MA 02563-2298
20. Old East Mill
Old East Mill
The Old East Mill was established in 1800 in Orleans, Massachusetts, over 30 miles to the east of where it rests today. The mill was built in an English “smock” mill style.
In 1819, the windmill was moved a short distance in Orleans to bring it closer to grain-producing areas and boat landing sites. In 1968, Old East Mill was moved from Orleans to Sandwich, where it stands on the grounds of the Heritage Museums and Gardens.
People that visit the Museum are allowed inside the ground level of the windmill. The mills are a great place to take pictures for people who love taking photos.
21. Boyden Farm Conservation Lands
The Boyden Farm Conservation Lands rests on the west side of Cotuit Road, south of its intersection with Quaker Meeting House Road. The Farm Conservation is 48-acres land, featuring a large wildlife management area, walking trails, and 730 feet of frontage on Peter’s Pond.
You will also find some of the animals that inhabit the area, such as whitetail deer, turkeys, foxes, skunks, and various woodland bird species. On the northern edge of the land, visitors will discover a historic cemetery; they will also find trails that lead through wooded areas surrounded by many different shrubs and tree species in the south.
Boyden Farm is also one of the famous dog walking locations and a spectacular place for hiking enthusiasts.
Address: Cotuit Rd, Sandwich, MA 02563
22. Nye Museum
Spend an afternoon at the Nye Museum with your friends and family off Route 6A, close to the East Sandwich Post Office.
Nye Museum is situated on a beautiful 3-acre homestead built by Benjamin Nye in 1678, and the Museum is a professionally staffed non-profit organization. Nye Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting three historic landmarks: a 1678 Colonial Farmhouse, an 1858 Grist Mill and Mill Museum, and our 1889 Grange Hall & Welcome Center.
The Museum is open for tours from mid-June to mid-October or year-round by special appointment. You can also visit the place to enjoy their special events and stroll through the trails and grounds or history talks throughout the year.
Address: 85 Old County Rd, East Sandwich, Sandwich, MA 02537-1430
23. Quaker Friends Meeting House
Quaker Friends Meeting House
Quaker Friends Meeting House features a quiet and relaxing setting for family gatherings, friends on trips, retreats, workshops, and other programs. Visitors are welcomed to the meeting house when they plan weekend workshops, reunions meeting programs, etc.
Quaker Friends Meeting House offers unique attractions like a public beach area, boat launch, 15-mile bicycle path, hiking trails, and a little store within easy walking distance. You will also find a library, a post office, and q quiet and peaceful environment.
Address: Spring Hill Rd., East Sandwich, Sandwich, MA 02537-1029
Massachusetts holds quite some breathtaking attractions and activities, do check out our list of things to do in Worcester , things to do in Lenox and things to do in Hyannis.
Plan your trip to Sandwich, MA
Are you ready for your next trip? Are you searching for the perfect getaway destination with your family or friends? Then, consider exploring Sandwich, Massachusetts.
The city welcomes its visitors with incredible attractions and memorable experiences. Sandwich features museums, historical places, delicious food, artworks, antiques and collectibles, recreational centers, outdoor and indoor games, etc.
Sandwich is one of the best places to visit with your loved ones as there are lots of fun things to do in Sandwich, MA, so pack your bags and get ready to experience a worthwhile adventure!