The Nauset Rental Guide to Mid and Upper Cape Cod
Explore the heart of Cape Cod through the distinctive offerings of each town located in the Mid and Upper Cape villages. Traverse the picturesque landscapes along scenic Route 6A, immerse yourself in the lively commercial hub of Hyannis, and discover the charm of the maritime community in Woods Hole. Uncover countless opportunities for unforgettable Cape Cod experiences in these diverse locales.
The Mid Cape Region
This region includes Dennis, Yarmouth and Barnstable, the last of which has seven villages: Barnstable Village, Centerville, Cotuit, Hyannis, Marstons Mills, Osterville and West Barnstable. The south side of the region has shoreline on Nantucket Sound, while the north is on Cape Cod Bay.
Dennis
Dennis is well-known for its popular beaches - Mayflower, Chapin, Corporation, Scargo Lake and Sea Street are among the top-rated by visitors. For delicious dining, we highly recommend the Ocean House, Sesuit Harbor Cafe, Encore and Grumpy's. For entertainment, visit the Harvest Gallery Wine Bar for live music, Cape Cinema for movies, and the Cape Playhouse for great shows.
Yarmouth
Follow Rt 6A West to Yarmouthport and Barnstable Village. Here, 6A is lined with historic homes, antique shops, restaurants and beautiful scenery, which becomes increasingly pastoral as you head through Barnstable. Visit Peterson's Market in Yarmouthport for fresh deli items, delicious homemade pizza, local seafood and an excellent butcher shop and wine selection. Oliver's Tavern next door is a great casual dining spot that also has live music and entertainment almost every night. Just down the street, Inaho Japanese Restaurant has some of the freshest sushi around.
Route 28
Across the Cape on Nantucket Sound, Rt 28 has much to offer visitors as well. The Red Nun in Dennisport and Summer Shanty in West Dennis are great spots for drinks, casual dining and live music. The Summer Shanty is waterfront on the Bass River marina, with gorgeous sunset views. There are many mini golf courses, trinket and souvenir shops and other great restaurants along the way here. Gerardi's Cafe has some of the most authentic and delicious Italian cuisine on Cape, and the Yarmouth House is a cozy, traditional American restaurant loved by many locals.
Hyannis
Hyannis is the main commercial center of Cape Cod. Here you will find many of the large chain stores, restaurants and fast food eateries you won't find elsewhere on the Cape. But there's also plenty to do if you're not in the mood for shopping! Take the ferry to Nantucket or take part in one of the annual traditions, such as the Pops by the Sea concert or Father's Day car show. For food and drink, there are many options to choose from. We recommend the Black Cat Tavern (try the lobster roll!), Anejo, which is home to the famous beech tree beer garden, Pizza Barbone and Pain D'Avignon. Cape Cod Beer also has a beer garden with fun outdoor games.
The Upper Cape Region
This region is composed of Bourne, Sandwich, Falmouth and Mashpee. Within these towns are the communities of Woods Hole, Pocasset, Sagamore and Sagamore Beach, Cataumet and New Seabury. The Upper Cape has shoreline on Buzzards Bay, Vineyard Sound and Cape Cod Bay.
Some of the most popular destinations in this area include Mashpee Commons, an upscale outdoor shopping extravaganza, the Cape Cod Canal with its miles of bike trails and scenic picnic spots, and Heritage Museum and Gardens, a 100-acre botanical expose.