Barnstable, MA is divided into several smaller towns, and at the center of it lies the city of Centerville—hence the name. Like much of Cape Cod, Centerville, MA is a popular destination for summer getaways, and it’s easy to see why: lovely weather, ocean breezes, and the small-town feel distinctive to New England.

Why Here?

Cape Cod is small enough that you can enjoy any of its pleasures regardless of where on it you’re staying—especially since almost all towns have some stretch of coastline. In the city of Centerville, as elsewhere, the beaches mean you’ll always have a chance to enjoy paddle boarding and fishing. The shorelines and marshes play hosts to all sorts of birds—great for birdwatching. And of course, the area boasts some of the oldest European historical features in the United States; if you’re a history buff, this area is a must-see.

So, why Centerville Cape Cod? Perhaps because you love reading—a quiet spot outside to lose yourself in a book is a terrific way to spend a New England summer day, and the Centerville Public Library is among the most active in the region, offering programs and activities for kids, teens, and adults. Centerville, MA is also a popular spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. Four Seas Ice Cream is here, which not only stands out for offering over 20 flavors of ice cream, but for having stood proudly for over 75 years and being recognized as one of the best ice cream parlors around by several magazines. The Centerville Pie Company is also here, catapulted to fame back in 2010 when Oprah Winfrey mentioned it on one of her shows.

Activities in Centerville, MA

One of the most popular things to do in the city of Centerville is visit the amazing beaches around town. Probably the most popular beach in Barnstable, Craigville is a favorite of teens and college students, but appeals to all ages. The massive beach area allows for lots of sunbathers and swimmers, and the parking lot holds an equal number of cars. The long, wide strand of beach is located on Nantucket Sound. It is staffed with lifeguards and equipped with bathrooms and showers. This beach is also disabled accessible and perfect for just about any beach day.

If you are looking to dive into the history of the area, make sure that you visit the Centerville Historical Society Museum. The Centerville Historical Museum, founded in 1952, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Centerville and Cape Cod. The fourteen-room museum includes an 1840 house and contains an outstanding collection of historic costumes, maritime and military artifacts, quilts, Crowell birds, 18th and 19th century decorative arts, paintings, tools, and children’s toys and dolls. The museum provides ongoing programs for all ages. The Third Grade History Program, family days, field trips, walking tours of Main Street, living history days, lectures, and an old-fashioned Christmas Stroll are all part of our regular program of events that highlight the museum’s collection. The museum is open February through December.

Another piece of amazing history in Centerville, MA is the 1856 Country Store. From penny candy to home decor and jewelry, the 1856 Country Store remains the go-to gift shop in Centerville. Located on Main Street, the store, which was built in 1840 to store cranberries, is a magnet for kids and adults of all ages because of the wide selection of gifts on display, including: houseware options like Pairpoint glass and Wicked Pissah products; local and handmade infant and adult clothing including options from Salt Box Woolens; jams, jellies and specialty sweets; an entire wall of penny and reasonably priced candy; toys, including old fashioned options like Tiddlywinks, Jacob’s Ladder and Pickup Sticks; and jewelry, including sailor’s rope bracelets made by Nantucket Knotworks and sterling silver earrings and bracelets, as well as stylish watches and rings. This store is the quintessential small-town store and will leave you with more than just a few souvenirs.

Why NEVR?

New England Vacation Rentals know the Cape Cod area inside and out, so however you want to enjoy New England, we can find you the perfect place to do it. As members of the Vacation Rental Management Association, we are held to the highest of property management standards, assuring you that your Centerville Cape Cod experience will be marked by hospitality and professionalism, so you can relax when you rent with us. We offer many extra items to rent to keep you traveling light, and our connections with travel agencies mean that when it comes to planning your stay, you hardly need to lift a finger. Rent Centerville MA Vacation Rentals from us, and we’ll take care of the rest.

If you like what you see with Centerville, MA there’s many more great cities in Cape Cod to explore below: