It’s possible to visit Provincetown on a day trip from Boston, but with so much to see and do you can easily spend a few days here. Depending on your interest, you could spend the morning touring the many art galleries and studios in town, or go shopping for unique souvenirs. Soak up the sun and go for a swim at Race Point Beach or Herring Cove Beach. Go for a hike or bike ride along the Province Lands Bike Trail. Enjoy a catamaran cruise or go whale watching in season. At night, be sure to sample some of the town’s legendary nightlife.
Provincetown is around a 90-minute ferry ride from Boston. Ferries operate between May and December. The closest airport is the Provincetown Municipal Airport (PVC), around 10 minutes from town. Provincetown is at the end of Route 6 for those driving. It’s also possible to reach the town by train and bus.
Provincetown can be visited year-round. Summer is the high season, and will see the largest crowds and highest prices. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, with smaller crowds. Winter can be bracing, and will see the smallest crowds. Some attractions, restaurants, and shops are closed outside the high season.
Established in 1899, Provincetown is one of the oldest art colonies in the country. There are numerous art museums, schools, galleries, and studios. Start at the Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM), which has a permanent collection of over 3,000 works by more than 700 artists. Contemporary art fans should visit the Provincetown Fine Arts Work Center. There are also more than 60 galleries in town, a large number of which are concentrated in the East End area, on Commercial Street.
