What to do in Hyannis: 5 Must-Do’s

Last August, we wrote blog posts about the must-do’s on Nantucket & the must-do’s on Martha’s Vineyard, and realized we forgot Hyannis! How could we?

Hyannis has a special place in our hearts. It is our home, where all the boats come back to dock for the night, where most of our offices are, and close to where many of us live and play when we’re not working.

It is also the center of the Cape, not only geographically, but also because of the number of businesses, transportation options, fun things to do, and commercial & local shopping. Due to its large natural harbor, Hyannis is the largest recreational boating and second-largest commercial fishing port on Cape Cod, behind only Provincetown. There is so much to love about Hyannis, and when you come here, we want you to experience the town we love in all its glory!

If we were showing someone around Hyannis, this is what we would do, and we think these are Must Do’s for a visitor looking to make the most of their time in this seaside town.

Visit Main Street for amazing events, shopping, food, and nightlife

There are 2 main commercial districts in Hyannis. There is the commercial shopping and chain dining along route 132 and Route 28, and then there is Main Street. A very walkable area, Main Street. is a haven of local shopping, amazing dining, as well as so much to see and do including the JFK Museum, the Village Green, and the Hyannis Library. Plenty of events are offered throughout the summer and early fall as well, such as open street events, safe trick or treating, and many more.  Walking, shopping, and eating your way down Main Street is a great way to spend your day!

Stroll through the artist shanties in Bismore Park

A short walk from Main Street, and right up Ocean Street from our docks, you will find the Artist Shanties in Bismore Park. These charming multicolored sheds are full of local artists selling their wares, and since they switch out periodically there is always some new treasures to find. Beautiful views of the harbor, fantastic people, and incredible artwork – what more could you want!

Go to the Maritime Museum for a dose of Cape Cod’s unique nautical history

Being such a large harbor, and having had roots on the Cape since it was established in 1693, Hyannis has a rich maritime history. If you are looking to really dive into not only Hyannis’ history but Cape Cod as a whole, look no further than the Cape Cod Maritime Museum. With exhibits ranging from boat building to knot tying and beautiful artwork of the area there is a lot to enjoy and learn as you explore this museum. If you are looking for more, check out their sailboats outside and maybe even go for a ride around the harbor! Let them know we said hello!

Take in a Cape Cod Baseball league game

“The Cape Cod Baseball League, where the stars of tomorrow shine tonight!” Such a fitting tag line for a wonderful organization on the Cape seeing as one in every six Major League Baseball players has played in the Cape Cod Baseball League.. Players from all over the country assemble into 10 teams and play ball across Cape Cod all summer long. The Cape Cod Baseball League is the premier collegiate summer baseball league in the nation founded in 1885, and we have a team right here in Hyannis, the Harbor Hawks! Take in a game at McKeon Park and enjoy.

Walk along Kalmus Beach

Off the beaten path, directly at the end of Ocean Street, you will find what we think is the best beach in Hyannis, Kalmus Beach! With endless amounts of seashells and natural life, beautiful dunes, and a stunning view of the harbor on both sides of the dunes a walk or leisurely relaxation session on the beach is the perfect way to end a day spent exploring Hyannis.  Centrally located, there are clean bathrooms and changing rooms and a delicious snack bar if you are looking for a quick bite. The water is calm and serene, and the sand is soft making it a great place for the whole family to enjoy. While you’re there, see if you can spot our ferries making their way to the islands, be sure to wave!

As you can tell, we love Hyannis. It is a great place to live, work, explore and play! We hope when you visit, you will take the time to experience all the fun things you can do here, and enjoy it as much as we do.