Cape Cod is more than a destination for boating, dining on delicious food, and sunbathing. It also has quite a bit of fascinating history worth learning more about and several attractions dedicated to preserving and telling its storied past. One particular venue that showcases some of the region’s most interesting artifacts and exhibits is the Atwood House and Museum in Chatham. It’s likely that the popular seaside town is on your list of places to visit, if you aren’t already staying there, so you will want to make sure you add the museum to your itinerary.

Why the Atwood House and Museum is a Top Chatham Attraction

The Atwood House was constructed in the 1750s and acquired by the Chatham Historical Society in 1926. It remains furnished the same way it was during the 18th and 19th centuries and has been unaltered in its original design with the exception of adding electricity. Over time, eight museum galleries and a larger special exhibit gallery were built onto the home to protect items related to the history and culture of Chatham. The collection consists of furniture, nautical charts, paintings, costumes and textiles, photographs, china, and more.

Permanent exhibits include the Nickerson Portrait Gallery, the Fishing Gallery, the Tool Room, the Lighthouse Turret, the Durand Family Collection, the Joseph C. Lincoln Gallery, the murals of Alice Stallknecht, and the Spencer Y. Grey Maritime Gallery.  

The grounds of the Atwood House and Museum also feature the Chatham School Bells, the Chatham Light Display, an 18th century herb garden, and the Nickerson North Beach Camp. There is quite a bit to observe and explore, and tours of the house are available, so give yourself plenty of time to take it all in.

Things to Do Nearby

While a trip to the Atwood House is a wonderful way to not only step back in time, but experience history like never before on Cape Cod, Chatham and the surrounding area are packed with even more stops to experience, enjoy and explore. Whether you’re one for the great outdoors or a visitor who can’t wait to jump into arts and culture, Chatham is a place that’s full of potential and sure to please.

Beachcombers Boat Tours

While the waters that surround Chatham are beautiful to view from a distance, there’s nothing quite like getting out on the waves and encounter the animals that call these waters home for yourself. There’s no need to strike out independently when you can easily book a guided experience with the professionals at Beachcombers Boat Tours. This company is headquartered at 174 Cromwell Road and provides customized tours that focus on eco-insight, sightseeing and seal spotting as well. Tours depart daily between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm, making this an easy booking no matter what your itinerary may look like. For more information on group reservations, guests are invited to call 508-945-5265.

Chatham Railroad Museum

Hit the tracks in style and learn the history of transportation when you take some time to unwind and explore at the Chatham Railroad Museum while you’re in town. This family-friendly stop is located at 153 Depot Road and is open to the public from June through September. Come visit Tuesdays through Saturdays between the hours of 10:00 am and 4:00 pm when you’re interested in getting up close with locomotives and seeing how the railroad transformed moving goods, people and services across the U.S. over time. There is no fee to visit the museum, but donations are gladly accepted in order to keep this engaging museum up, running and thriving well into the future.

Restaurants Nearby

While all of the adventuring through Chatham is bound to be fun, when it comes to curbing a craving, this destination is packed with flavorful stops to choose from. When you’re here, make sure to make time for a meal at the Impudent Oyster. Situated at 15 Chatham Bars Avenue, the Impudent Oyster is an eclectic stop where it’s just as easy to sit down and enjoy a savory seafood platter as it is to snuggle up to the bar and toast to vacation with a beer, wine or cocktail in hand. The Impudent Oyster is open 11:30 am until 9:00 pm most days of the week and for information on group reservations, feel free to call 508-945-3545.

Choose New England Vacation Rentals to Meet Your Cape Cod Accommodation Needs

There is a great deal to see and do on Cape Cod, and the staff at New England Vacation Rentals wants to help you experience as much of it as possible. It all starts with the accommodations you choose, making sure you’re in the right location and staying within your budget. Our portfolio is full of property listings that are in desirable neighborhoods, fit different price ranges, and come equipped with all the best amenities. Our diverse selection of options ensures you will be able to find a home that matches your individual needs. Call today to reserve your travel dates and to learn more about the Atwood House and Museum!

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347 Stage Harbor Rd.
Chatham, MA 02633(508) 945-2493

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