Provincetown, Cape Cod: Art-Centric & LGBTQ+ Friendly Village

• Art's Dune Tours: An amazing way to experience the gem that is the gorgeous Cape Cod national seashore, especially during sunset. You'll get a unique vantage point, riding through the dunes and learning about the historical and ecological context of this magical place.

• Visit the Pilgrim Monument: History buffs, this is a must. This landmark preserves the history of the landing of the Mayflower Pilgrims in 1620.

• Catch a show! The Crown Cabaret and the Art House feature a variety of shows from drag to comedy to Broadway music. There is never a shortage of entertainment in Provincetown during the summer season.

• Head to the beach! Cape Cod National Seashore is a stunning place to spend the day. Herring Cove and Race Point are both great options.

• Take a hike (or a bike!) There are many options for those who want an active outdoor adventure during their stay. So much to explore.

• Art lovers, you will not be disappointed. Provincetown's rich history as America's oldest continuous art colony is unique to the fabric of this destination. Meander your way through Commercial Street, dipping in and out of galleries along the way. At the very end of the East End, PAAM has a great collection of art and special events.

• See a whale! Whale watching is a favorite past time in Provincetown for locals and tourists alike. It's a great way to spend a summer day, and these local beauties will wow you.

• Shop til you drop! This little town will surprise you with its variety of local businesses and unique offerings. You'll find everything from jewelry and clothes to home decor and pet accessories.

Breakfast

Two of my favorites for breakfast and brunch are Cafe Heaven and Liz's Cafe. Great option for breakfast classics paired with a mimosa or bloody Mary!

Lunch

Patio is great for lobster rolls, salads, sandwiches and people watching. With one of the biggest patios in town, it's a perfect spot to have a leisurely lunch. Their sister restaurant on the bay, Pepe's offers two large waterfront deck options and is great for local fare for either lunch or dinner.

The Canteen is one of our favorite places and a Ptown tradition. It has very casual and fun outdoor seating facing the bay, with an outdoor bar, fire pits, adirondacks, and picnic tables. I've never tried a dish I didn't like. Amazing lobster rolls, fries, apps, grilled cheese options and healthier options like poke bowls and plant-based offerings.

If you want sandwiches, snacks and drinks to take to the beach or on a boat ride, go to Pop + Dutch. It has great sandwiches, snacks and drinks to take. They also make great breakfast sandwiches.

Dinner

The Red Inn is a must during your stay. It's situated in one of the most special spots on the peninsula of Cape Cod...at the very end. The view from their deck/patio is swoon-worthy. It is a higher-end option but is well worth it IMO. The service is impeccable and the experience is worthy of special occasions...a memory you'll take home.

I love this place so much, it's where I chose to propose to my wife. While it can be expensive, if you want to save money, you can go to happy hour which starts in the afternoon and get a great selection of small snacks and drinks for less.

If you're in the mood for Italian, Front Street is where to go. It's a cozy spot featuring Italian classics (a ton of options to choose from) and a vast wine list.

Strangers and Saints is such a fun place to dine, we often try to go more than once during a weeklong stay. Don't miss it...great variety of options, including pizzas that do not disappoint!

No P-town guide can go without mentioning Spiritus. This is a pizza by-the-slice joint that only takes cash, but it is a key staple in the dining scene. I dream about this pizza and literally make this a first stop on any visit to Ptown. Grab a slice for lunch or in the evening. They are open very late (after the bars and clubs close) and it is a very popular stop before heading home after a fun (and long) evening out.

Drinks

Go to the Boatslip for its iconic (and world-famous) tea dance on the bay. Enjoy drinks on their massive deck facing the bay, and if you're in the mood for a sip and twirl....you'll find a booming dance floor inside. They open every day at four.

A quieter, loungey spot for cocktails and wine on the bay is Harbor Lounge. It's located on the East End and is a great stop before dinner or for a night cap.

A popular lounge option on the West End is the Shipwreck, located at the Brass Key Hotel. Great for martinis with indoor and outdoor seating options, along with fire pits and a fireplace in the off-season.