10 Best Things to Do in Sandwich (MA)

Nestled on the Upper Cape, Sandwich, Massachusetts, is a historic town facing Cape Cod Bay that was first settled in 1637. This charming destination is known for its fascinating past, beautiful natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural attractions. Here are some of the top things to do in Sandwich that highlight its unique blend of history, nature, and art.

Heritage Museums & Gardens

One of the most beloved attractions on Cape Cod, the Heritage Museums & Gardens, is located on a 100-acre estate that once belonged to Charles O. Dexter. Dexter, known for his work in hybridizing rhododendrons, developed thousands of seedlings each year during the early 20th century. Today, visitors can stroll through stunning gardens featuring a significant collection of rhododendron bushes, over 1,000 varieties of daylilies, and a noteworthy hosta collection.

In addition to the gardens, the estate houses indoor museum galleries. Here, you can view the extraordinary American Automobile Collection, which spans from the 1890s to the 1960s. The museums also feature impressive displays of American art and artifacts. A highlight for many visitors is a ride on the functioning 1908 Charles Looff Carousel, a piece of history that delights both children and adults alike.

Sandwich Glass Museum

A testament to the town’s history as New England’s premier glassmaking center, the Sandwich Glass Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the art and craft of glassmaking. The museum features live demonstrations in front of a glass furnace, where you can watch skilled glassblowers at work. These 20-minute demonstrations allow visitors to experience the heat and intensity of glassblowing up close.

The museum’s galleries showcase thousands of pieces of glassware, many of which were created at Deming Jarves’ factory using both traditional and modern techniques. The museum gift shop offers a variety of handcrafted items, including jewelry, paperweights, vases, and perfume bottles, making it a perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir.

Sandwich Boardwalk and Town Neck Beach

Built in 1875, the iconic Sandwich Boardwalk stretches 1,350 feet across estuarine marshland over Mill Creek, leading to the picturesque Town Neck Beach. This wooden structure is a beloved emblem of the town, offering stunning views and a peaceful setting for a leisurely walk. Although the boardwalk has undergone several renovations to protect it from decay and storm damage, it remains a cherished spot for locals and tourists alike.

At high tide, the crossing point over Mill Creek is a popular spot for jumping into the water. On the beach, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and taking in the views of the Cape Cod Canal’s eastern entrance.

The Old King’s Highway

Route 6A, also known as the Old King’s Highway, is a scenic byway that runs through Sandwich, showcasing the town’s historic charm. This route, granted National Scenic Byway status in 2021, stretches for 62 miles along the north coast of Cape Cod, passing through salt marshes, cranberry bogs, old-growth woods, and preserved farmlands.

Along the Old King’s Highway, you’ll find a series of historic house museums, including the Nye House, Sandwich Glass Museum, and Wing Fort House. These sites provide a glimpse into New England’s architectural history, with styles ranging from the 17th to the 20th century.

Cape Cod Canal

The Cape Cod Canal, completed in 1914, connects Buzzards Bay with Cape Cod Bay and is a popular spot for recreation. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the canal features multi-use trails on both banks, perfect for walking, biking, or fishing. The eastern entrance to the canal in Sandwich includes a visitor center and the Scusset Beach State Reservation.

Visitors can marvel at the engineering feats of the Sagamore Bridge, Bourne Bridge, and the Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge, the latter being the second-longest lift bridge in the United States. The canal area also offers various attractions, public recreation spaces, and campgrounds.

Hoxie House

One of the oldest buildings on Cape Cod, Hoxie House, is situated near Shawme Lake in the historic center of Sandwich. This saltbox house dates back to at least 1675 and was home to Rev. John Smith and his family. Later, it was owned by whaling captain Abraham Hoxie in the mid-1800s.

In the 1950s, the town restored Hoxie House to its original 17th-century appearance and opened it as a museum. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the house’s history and its former residents. Admission also includes entry to the nearby Dexter Grist Mill.

Dexter Grist Mill

Located in the Town Hall Square Historic District, the Dexter Grist Mill is a working mill with origins dating back to the mid-17th century. Positioned where Shawme Lake drains into Mill Creek, the mill features a charming stone-walled millrace that powers its water wheel. The mill was restored in the 1960s to resemble its 19th-century appearance and includes historic grinding wheels from France.

During the summer, visitors can tour the mill, see the grinding process in action, and purchase freshly milled cornmeal, along with recipes from the early days of Sandwich.

Nye Museum

The Benjamin Nye Homestead, built around 1678, is a historic house museum that has been associated with the Nye family for most of its history. The Nye Family Association took over the property in the early 1960s, restoring it to its former glory. Today, the museum showcases 18th-century furnishings and offers tours from June through October.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the Grange Hall, a historic meeting place now serving as the museum’s visitor center, featuring a shop, special exhibits, and a space for community events and lectures.

Scusset Beach State Reservation

Located at the eastern entrance of the Cape Cod Canal, Scusset Beach State Reservation offers 1.5 miles of sandy beach on Cape Cod Bay. This public recreation area is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. A stone jetty provides a vantage point for watching ships pass by, while lifeguards ensure safety during the summer season.

The reservation also includes 98 RV campsites and five tent-only sites, making it a great option for those looking to stay overnight and enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Cod.

Sandy Neck Beach Park

While technically located in neighboring Barnstable, Sandy Neck Beach is easily accessible from Sandwich and is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. This six-mile barrier beach offers a stunning mix of dunes, marshes, and maritime forests, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

The 7.5-mile Sandy Neck Nature Trail allows visitors to explore the diverse coastal habitats, with sections along the marshes and the oceanfront. The beach area features lifeguards, a snack shack, and ample parking, making it a convenient and enjoyable spot for a day at the beach.

Sandwich, Massachusetts, is a town rich in history and natural beauty, offering a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. From exploring historic landmarks and museums to enjoying the scenic beaches and trails, Sandwich provides a perfect mix of cultural and recreational activities for visitors of all ages.

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