Things To Do In Chatham MA?

Located in a restored 18th-century farmhouse, Maps of Antiquity offers a vast collection of over 15,000 antique maps, prints, and charts, with a special focus on New England and nautical history. Visitors can browse through maps dating back to the 1700s, including American town maps, historical prints, and detailed nautical charts. They also provide services like custom framing, restoration, appraisals, and reproductions, making it a unique spot for history buffs or anyone interested in the art of cartography. Open year-round, it’s a haven for antique collectors or those seeking a special piece of local or historical significance​.

The Eldredge Public Library, located on Main Street in Chatham, was a gift to the town from local philanthropist Marcellus Eldredge. Built in 1896, this Romanesque Revival building is notable for its stunning architecture, featuring red brick walls, a slate roof, and intricate oak woodwork. Over the years, the library has expanded its space and services, including a dedicated Genealogy Department with over 7,000 resources for tracing family histories. The library offers year-round activities for all ages, such as summer programs for children and book discussions for adults. Visitors also have access to free Wi-Fi, computers, and a variety of digital media resources​.

The AWSC Shark Center in Chatham is dedicated to educating the public about the Great White Shark, one of Cape Cod’s most fascinating seasonal residents. This family-friendly center features interactive exhibits, videos, and displays that offer a glimpse into groundbreaking research on these iconic predators. Visitors can learn about shark conservation and the ecological role sharks play in the ocean ecosystem. The center is open year-round from Thursday to Sunday, making it a great rainy-day activity for all ages. As the headquarters for many community programs, the center is not only a great learning experience but also a hub for larger conservation efforts​.

The Atwood Museum in Chatham, managed by the Chatham Historical Society, is a fascinating historical site with a variety of exhibits that highlight the region’s rich history. The museum is centered around the Atwood House, built in 1752, which is one of the oldest structures in Chatham. Visitors can tour the home to experience colonial life while also exploring other exhibits like the Alice Stallknecht Mural Barn, which features breathtaking murals of Chatham’s past, and the Fishing Gallery, which showcases the town’s maritime heritage. The museum has 12 galleries, including seasonal exhibits, and is known for its unique blend of history, art, and culture. It is open seasonally from mid-June through mid-October and offers a quiet, enriching escape just minutes from downtown Chatham.

The Caleb Nickerson Homestead is a well-preserved historic site that offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century life on Cape Cod. Built in 1829 by Caleb Nickerson, a descendant of Chatham’s founder, this full-Cape-style house was originally located near Stage Harbor. In 2003, it was moved to its current location on the Nickerson Family Association property. The home showcases authentic period details, such as three working fireplaces, including a beehive oven, wide pine floors, and period woodwork. The Homestead operates as a "working museum," hosting demonstrations of early American crafts, such as cooking over the hearth and weaving on a loom. There’s also a Colonial kitchen garden that visitors can explore. The house is open for guided tours during the summer and early fall on Wednesdays, and the grounds are accessible year-round for self-guided exploration. Special events, such as hands-on history days, make this a particularly engaging destination for history enthusiasts.

The Marconi-RCA Wireless Museum, part of the Chatham Marconi Maritime Center, offers a deep dive into the world of wireless communication history. Located at the site of what was once the world's largest ship-to-shore radio station, the museum explores the pioneering work of Guglielmo Marconi and the role this station played in global maritime communication. Through interactive exhibits and artifacts, visitors can learn about the technology behind early radio transmissions, including Morse code, and see original equipment from ships like the SS Hope. A highlight is the "Golden Age of Trans-Atlantic Ocean Liners" exhibit, which showcases the connections between Chatham Radio and famous passenger ships, such as the RMS Queen Mary. The museum also covers the station's pivotal role during World War II, when it intercepted German encrypted messages to assist the Allied forces. In addition to the indoor exhibits, the museum features an Antenna Field Trail, a scenic walking path that highlights the historical significance of the site's radio antennas. This museum is open seasonally, typically from spring to fall, and offers year-round educational programs, including STEM activities for children.

The Chatham Pier is an active, working fishing port where you can watch local fishermen unloading their catch, typically between 1-2 pm. An observation deck offers visitors a prime view of the unloading process, where species like cod, lobster, and even the impressive bluefin tuna are brought in. Seals often gather near the boats, hoping for scraps, adding to the spectacle. The pier also serves as a launch point for various seal-watching tours and trips to the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors can park in the upper lot, while the lower lot is reserved for permit holders​.

The Godfrey Windmill, constructed in 1797 by Colonel Benjamin Godfrey, is one of Chatham’s most iconic historical landmarks. Located in Chase Park, this restored gristmill stands as a testament to Chatham’s rich agricultural history, having been used to grind corn for local residents for over a century. The windmill is open for seasonal tours from late June through August on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, where visitors can learn about its historical significance and even witness it in action during special "Corn Grinding Days." It was meticulously restored in 2012, and today it remains a popular attraction where you can explore the structure’s inner workings and appreciate its craftsmanship.

A key feature of Chatham’s coastal landscape, the Chatham Lighthouse has stood since 1808, providing a beacon for mariners navigating the treacherous waters off Cape Cod. This working lighthouse offers tours during the summer season, typically on Wednesdays, allowing visitors to climb to the top for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Monomoy Island. It's an important symbol of Chatham’s maritime heritage, with an informative display on the history of shipwrecks and coastal rescues in the area. The lighthouse is still operated by the U.S. Coast Guard and continues to serve its original purpose while also offering educational insights into the town’s nautical past.

Housed in a restored 1887 railroad depot, the Chatham Railroad Museum offers a glimpse into the golden age of railroads. The museum features an extensive collection of railroad memorabilia, including the original freight room, antique station equipment, and a 1910 wood caboose that visitors can explore. Open during the summer months, the museum is a family-friendly destination that offers a hands-on experience for children and adults alike. The museum highlights Chatham's connection to the Cape Cod railways and is a must-visit for train enthusiasts or anyone interested in local history.

Kate Gould Park is a charming green space located in the heart of Chatham, right off Main Street. This park is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, hosting various events throughout the year, including summer band concerts at the adjacent Chatham Bandstand. Its central location makes it a perfect place to relax after shopping or dining in the town center. With its large shady trees and beautifully maintained grounds, the park is an ideal location for picnics, leisurely strolls, or just soaking in the small-town ambiance.