Things To Do
in Chatham
Chatham is a picturesque town located in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, known for its charming coastal scenery. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, and quaint shops and restaurants in the area. Chatham is popular for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
The town also has a rich maritime history, with museums and exhibits showcasing its seafaring past.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll on Chatham Beach. Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and collect seashells.
Grab lunch at a local seaside cafe. Afterward, indulge in some beach games or sunbathing.
Watch the sunset while enjoying a picnic on the sand. Finish off the day with ice cream from a nearby shop.
Explore the scenic trails at Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique plant species.
Enjoy a packed lunch in one of the refuge's picnic areas. Continue your walk while soaking in the natural beauty.
Return to Chatham village for a leisurely dinner at a cozy restaurant. End the evening with a stroll through the charming streets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with a close-knit community.
- Easy access to nature, parks, and outdoor activities.
- Strong local schools and educational institutions.
- Rich history and cultural heritage.
- Proximity to urban areas like New York City for commuting.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- High cost of living and housing prices.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Potential for extreme weather conditions, including winters.
- Limited job opportunities in certain fields compared to bigger cities.
Best Activities in Chatham
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic ride on the Cape Cod Rail Trail, which offers beautiful views of nature, beaches, and charming towns along the way.
Explore the trails and stunning landscapes at Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, where you can also spot diverse wildlife and bird species.
Rent a kayak and paddle around Stage Harbor, taking in the picturesque views and the opportunity to see seals and other marine life.
Spend a relaxing day at Lighthouse Beach, known for its white sands, stunning views, and perfect conditions for swimming and sunbathing.
Try your luck at fishing from the Chatham Fish Pier, where you can catch various local fish and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the pier.
Join a whale watching tour to see humpback and minke whales off the coast of Chatham, especially during the prime season from spring to fall.
Take a stroll to the iconic Chatham Lighthouse, enjoy the breathtaking views of the coastline, and learn about the town's maritime history.
Discover a variety of bird species while birdwatching at Pleasant Bay, a popular spot for both beginners and avid birders.
Tours
Uncover the best of Chatham with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Chatham
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Chatham Lighthouse. Great spot for sunset photography.
Provides panoramic views of pristine beaches and diverse wildlife. Perfect for nature photography and bird watching.
A picturesque location to capture the bustling activity of local fishermen and the scenic waterfront.
Historic house museum offering lovely views of the grounds and the surrounding area, ideal for capturing the essence of Chatham.
A local landmark with charming architecture, great for candid street photography and enjoying local culture.
Just a short drive away, featuring breathtaking coastal views, trails, and opportunities for landscape photography.
A beautiful lighthouse with a great vantage point for ocean views and photographing marine life.
Known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the coastline, perfect for beach sunset photos.
Luxury resort offering beautiful views of the harbor, ideal for high-end photography experiences.
A great spot to take photos of boats and the harbor, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Chatham
Chatham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential New England dish, the lobster roll in Chatham is a must-try. Enjoy fresh lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise and seasonings, served in a buttered and grilled roll. Recommended to try at Chatham Pier Fish Market.
Must-Try!
This creamy clam chowder featuring quahog clams is a local favorite. The rich flavor and hearty texture make it a satisfying dish. Find this at the Chatham Fish Pier Market or local seafood restaurants.
A sweet treat made with locally harvested cranberries, oats, and a buttery crust. This dessert bar showcases the region's renowned cranberry production. Available at local bakeries and cafes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Chatham better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This market is a hub for fresh seafood, offering a variety of locally caught fish, lobsters, and shellfish. Visitors can also enjoy delicious lobster rolls and seafood chowder from the market's takeaway counter.
Open during the summer months, this market features local produce, artisanal foods, and a selection of ready-to-eat snacks. It's a great place to sample freshly made pastries, organic fruits, and other local delights.
Visitors can explore an array of diverse street food options along Main Street, including gourmet tacos, lobster sliders, and freshly squeezed juices. The food trucks offer a unique culinary experience with outdoor seating.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Chatham residents value politeness and courteous behavior. Always greet people with a smile, make eye contact, and use 'please' and 'thank you' to show respect.
Participating in local events and community gatherings is encouraged. It shows respect for local culture and helps build connections with residents.
Respect for personal space and privacy is important. Avoid asking overly personal questions unless you have established a close relationship.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Chatham with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Chatham
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chatham, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is customary in service industries. The standard tip for services such as dining in restaurants typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill. In bars, tipping $1 to $2 per drink is common. For services like hair styling, taxi rides, and hotel staff, a tip of 15% to 20% is also generally appreciated.
Payment practices in Chatham follow standard U.S. protocols. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and some may also accept mobile payments. Cash is also accepted, but fewer people carry it than in the past. In restaurants, guests usually pay at the table after receiving their bill, while in retail settings, payment is made at the checkout counter. Customers often have the option to add a tip to their total payment when using cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Chatham.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Chatham. Temperatures range from mild to warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Expect blooming flowers, vibrant greenery, and outdoor festivals. However, you may encounter occasional rain.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Chatham. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and water sports. Expect larger crowds, especially in July and August, and make sure to book accommodations in advance.
Fall (September to November) offers cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. This season is less crowded than summer, providing a more tranquil experience. Visitors can enjoy harvest events and scenic walks amidst colorful leaves.
Winter (December to February) is off-peak in Chatham. Temperatures can be cold, but the town has a charming, cozy atmosphere during the holidays. Expect fewer tourists, and enjoy winter activities such as holiday events and quiet beach walks.
Chatham at Night
Hiking in Chatham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area with a variety of trails for hiking, featuring a mix of forest and open spaces.
A network of scenic trails that provide great hiking experiences through local parks and nature reserves.
Located nearby, this park offers an array of hiking trails along the shoreline with stunning views of the lake.
Features trails that traverse through diverse ecosystems and offer educational opportunities about local wildlife.
A tranquil site with well-maintained trails cutting through beautiful wooded areas ideal for hiking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Chatham through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Chatham by plane.
Located approximately 70 miles from Chatham, BOS is the primary airport serving Boston and New England, offering numerous international flights.
Located about 120 miles from Chatham, BDL serves the Hartford/Springfield area and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Approximately 200 miles away, EWR is one of the major airports serving the New York City metropolitan area, with extensive international connections.
Located around 210 miles from Chatham, JFK is a major international airport serving New York City, known for its extensive range of international flights.
About 260 miles from Chatham, PHL is a significant airport for international travel, serving the Philadelphia area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Chatham, primarily consisting of non-Hispanic individuals.
A significant demographic group, contributing to the cultural diversity of Chatham.
A growing demographic group in Chatham, encompassing various ethnic backgrounds.
Includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, making up a smaller portion of the population.
Individuals identifying with more than one racial category, reflecting increasing diversity.
A small demographic group, representing the indigenous populations.
This group is the smallest demographic in Chatham, consisting of individuals from Pacific Island nations.
The Soul of Chatham
Discover the essence of Chatham through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Lacrosse is a popular team sport in Chatham, known for its fast pace and exciting gameplay. Local schools and clubs frequently hold leagues and tournaments.
Soccer enjoys a strong following in Chatham with many youth leagues and recreational programs, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Baseball is a traditional American pastime in Chatham, with community teams and events bringing residents together during the summer months.
Ice hockey is popular during the winter season, with local rinks supporting youth programs and adult leagues.
Swimming is widely practiced, particularly in summer, with various community pools and swim teams available for residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chatham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Chatham offer an array of vegetarian and vegan choices, including flavorful vegetable paellas, mushroom risottos, and plant-based burgers. Visitors with dietary preferences can easily find suitable options at most dining establishments.
For those seeking gluten-free dining, Chatham's eateries provide gluten-free pasta, pizzas, and baked goods. Dedicated gluten-free menus are available at several restaurants, ensuring a safe and enjoyable dining experience for individuals with gluten restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Chatham with these cultural adventures.
