The beach is the main attraction, obviously (see our favorite Cape Cod beaches if you haven't picked one yet). But after a few days, kids usually want to do something else. Here are the things we recommend to families staying with us.
Outdoor Adventures
Cape Cod Rail Trail
Best for: Ages 5+
This 22-mile paved trail runs from Dennis to Wellfleet, perfect for family bike rides. Rent bikes in Dennis and ride as far as little legs will carry you.
Tips:
- Bike rentals available at multiple shops along the trail
- The Dennis-to-Nickerson section is flattest
- Pack snacks and water
- Ice cream stops along the way!
Pirate Adventures
Best for: Ages 3-10
Kids become pirates on this interactive boat adventure in Hyannis. They search for treasure, shoot water cannons, and learn pirate lingo.
Details:
- 90-minute cruises
- Face painting included
- Book in advance during summer
- Morning cruises are less crowded
Whale Watching
Best for: Ages 6+
See humpback whales, dolphins, and seabirds on a whale watch from Provincetown or Barnstable.
Recommendations:
- Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises
- Dolphin Fleet (Provincetown)
- Bring dramamine if prone to seasickness
- Morning trips typically calmer
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
Best for: All ages
Hands-on exhibits, nature trails, and aquariums make this Brewster museum a rainy-day favorite.
Highlights:
- Touch tanks with sea creatures
- Nature trails through salt marsh
- Butterfly house (seasonal)
- Beach discovery programs
Rainy Day Activities
Cape Cod Inflatable Park
Best for: Ages 3-12
When rain hits, this indoor inflatable playground in West Yarmouth saves the day.
Features:
- Giant bounce houses
- Obstacle courses
- Toddler area
- Arcade games
Cape Cod Children's Museum
Best for: Ages 1-8
Interactive exhibits designed specifically for young children, located in Mashpee.
Popular Areas:
- Pirate ship play area
- Planetarium shows
- Art studio
- Outdoor play space
Bowling & Arcades
Ryan Family Amusements (multiple locations):
- Bowling
- Arcade games
- Bumper cars
- Mini bowling for little ones
Mini Golf & Go-Karts
Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf
Best for: Ages 4+
Two 18-hole courses with waterfalls, caves, and pirate theming. The Yarmouth location is our favorite.
Cape Cod Bumper Boats & Batting Cages
Best for: Ages 6+
Bumper boats, batting cages, and mini golf in one location (Harwich).
Grand Slam Entertainment
Best for: Ages 8+
Go-karts, laser tag, and mini golf in Harwich. The go-karts are a hit with older kids.
Animal Encounters
Local Farms & Wildlife Spots
Best for: All ages
The Cape has a handful of small farms and wildlife-viewing spots worth checking out—look for current listings for petting zoos, farm-animal encounters, and nature centers in the towns around Dennis. Hours and offerings change seasonally, so it's worth a quick search or asking your host for what's currently open.
Clamming on the Flats
Best for: Ages 5+
At low tide, the flats around Dennis are a great spot to try clamming with the kids. A local bait-and-tackle shop can point you to public shellfishing areas and let you know if you need a permit (towns generally require one for non-residents).
What to Expect:
- Hands-on experience
- Wading in shallow water at low tide
- Learning about marine life
- Bring a rake and a bucket
Sweet Treats
For a full rundown of where we eat—not just dessert—see our Dennis restaurant guide.
Sundae School Ice Cream
Multiple locations serving homemade ice cream in creative flavors.
Katie's Homemade Ice Cream
Best soft serve on the Cape—the twist cones are perfect.
Hot Chocolate Sparrow
Orleans coffee shop famous for their hot chocolate and pastries.
Hole in One Donuts
Arrive early for legendary apple fritters and donuts.
Educational Fun
Cape Cod National Seashore
Salt Pond Visitor Center:
- Junior Ranger program
- Nature films
- Ranger-led programs
- Trail maps
Plimoth Patuxet Museums
45 minutes away, but worth it:
- Living history museum
- Mayflower II ship
- Wampanoag homesite
- Hands-on activities
Cape Cod Maritime Museum
Learn about Cape Cod's seafaring history through interactive exhibits.
Beach Alternatives
Nickerson State Park
Best for: All ages
Eight freshwater ponds perfect for swimming (warmer than ocean!), plus hiking, biking, and camping.
Why Kids Love It:
- Calm, warm water
- Sandy beaches
- Fishing
- Playground
Scargo Tower
Climb this stone observation tower in Dennis for panoramic views. Quick activity that kids enjoy.
Sample Family Itinerary
Day 1: Beach Day
- Morning at Mayflower Beach
- Lunch at Captain Frosty's
- Afternoon rest
- Mini golf at Pirate's Cove
- Ice cream at Sundae School
Day 2: Adventure Day
- Bike the Rail Trail
- Lunch in Brewster
- Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
- Dinner at George's Pizza
Day 3: Water Day
- Morning whale watch
- Lunch in Hyannis
- Pirate Adventure cruise
- Casual dinner
Day 4: Explore Day
- Nickerson State Park swimming
- Picnic lunch
- Scargo Tower
- Beach sunset
Planning a family trip to Cape Cod? Browse our family-friendly Dennis properties and start creating memories.
