What to do in a town with a colorful history and brimming with spectacular scenery? Some of the best things to do in Sandwich, Massachusetts include road tripping, hiking, and shopping. There are lots of things to learn along the way as you explore this exciting town!
Sandwich is a town located in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, USA.
The area was originally inhabited by the Wampanoag Native American tribe, aka the Pokanoket people. The colonists negotiated a treaty with them to purchase the land.
In its early days, Sandwich was primarily an agricultural community, with residents farming the land and raising livestock.
The town also became known for its production of glass, which was made from the plentiful supply of sand in the area.
The Boston and Sandwich Glass Company - founded in 1825 - became one of the largest glass manufacturers in the U.S.
Visiting the town’s glass museum is truly one of the best things to do in Sandwich!
During the American Revolution, Sandwich was an important center of activity, with many of its residents serving in the Continental Army. The town also suffered from British raids, including an attack in 1778 that resulted in the burning of several homes and businesses.
In the 19th century, Sandwich continued to thrive as a center of industry, with the manufacturing of textiles, shoes, and paper.
The town also became a popular summer destination for wealthy tourists, who built elaborate homes and estates along the coast.
Today, Sandwich is known for its historic charm and beautiful natural scenery.
A sign placed on a wooden post that says ‘Cape Cod Central Railroad’ in Sandwich, Massachusetts
Sandwich is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, with miles of pristine coastline that offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind.
In addition to its natural beauty and historic attractions, Sandwich boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and festivals that showcase the town’s unique character.
Below are ten of the best things to do in Sandwich, Massachusetts, and help you plan your perfect Cape Cod vacation.
Explore a variety of exhibits and displays, including an extensive collection of glassware produced by the Sandwich Glass Company, as well as works from other notable American glass manufacturers.
Witness the art of glassblowing firsthand through live demonstrations.
Get hands-on experience of working with glass. Participate in a variety of programs and workshops, which cover topics such as:
glassblowing
glass cutting
glass fusing
Address
129 Main Street, corner of Route 130 (Main Street) and Tupper Road
Hours of Operation
closed: January; February-March (Wednesday-Sunday; 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.); April-December (9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
It is known for its history, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreation, making the town a must-visit tourist destination on Cape Cod.
The best things to do in Sandwich are to explore the town’s rich history, to enjoy some of the best beaches in New England, and to immerse yourself in its vibrant arts and culture scene.