Discovering Falmouth On Cape Cod
By Dennis Murphy
Falmouth is a popular destination on Cape Cod. It is noted as
having the warmest waters, more public beaches and the finest
restaurants on Cape Cod. Falmouth is in the southwestern part
of Cape Cod, conveniently located to Martha's Vineyard,
Newport, Plymouth, Boston, Nantucket and Provincetown.
Falmouth Then and Now
Falmouth was settled in 1660. Named by Batholomew Gosnold for
Falmouth, Cornwall, England, the town was officially
incorporated in 1686. The areas of commerce first involved
farming, whaling, shipping, salt works and sheep herding. At
the time sheep were very popular, as the Merino sheep had
recently been introduced, and in 1837, it is believed that
there were some 50 sheep per square mile in Falmouth. Other
industries the town became famous for included cranberry and
strawberry cultivation and dairy. Falmouth is also noted as
being the birthplace of Katherine Lee Bates, the lyricist of
America the Beautiful, born in 1859. It was not long until
many people realized what beautiful summer homes this area of
Cape Cod offered and since the 1970s has seen a Falmouth has
seen a boom.
Points of Interest in Falmouth
Today Cape Cod's Falmouth is known as the terminal for the
Steamship Authority for the ferries that travel between the
town and Martha's Vineyard. Daily ferry service between
Falmouth and Martha's Vineyard keeps the town bustling with
tourists and visitors. There are also several scientific
groups including the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, the
Marine Biological Laboratory and the Woods Hole Research
Center. Falmouth features great Cape Cod summers and is
popular because it is so close to all of the tourist hot spots.
It features a variety of activities from whaling to learning
about the history of the founding of America.
A Learning Trip for Kids
One of the best places to stop and learn more about Cape Cod is
at the Falmouth Historical Society. It is a great museum for
kids as they feature hands-on exhibits, costumes from the
Victorian and Colonial times that children may try on and
unique activities designed for learning and having fun at the
same time. There are also beautiful gardens and 18th century
historical buildings filled with antiques and furnishings from
the colonial period.
An Outdoorsy Destination
If you are looking for a unique way to see Falmouth on Cape Cod
then a guide from Falmouth' Waquoit Kayak Company may satisfy
that craving. Canoes, paddleboats and kayak rentals are
available for a unique way to explore the waterways around
Falmouth. This can be a great way to explore the Cape's
wildlife which is a good activity for older children and adults
alike.
If you have a few bike riders in the family, there is not a
better way to see Falmouth. Shining Sea Bike Tours offers safe
and enjoyable tours that can be either cross country or sunset
tours. This is a great way to explore Cape Cod and take in
spectacular views.
If you have always dreamed of a fishing trip off the Cape then
Hop-Tuit can help you out. This is a great experience for
children and adults alike. The boat can take six passengers at
a time and offers over 30 years of experience. They know the
best fishing spots and use traditional fishing methods and
tackle.
The Perfect Family Getaway
There is no better place to explore Cape Cod and take advantage
of everything it has to offer. There are beaches, fishing,
tours, and numerous outdoor events that will keep the kids busy
and learning at the same time. No matter where you find
yourself in Falmouth it is sure to be a great and relaxing time
for children of all ages.
About The Author:
Dennis Murphy, a 1992 graduate of Harvard
University, has owned Donahue Real Estate in Falmouth MA
(http://www.falmouthhomes.com) since 1998. He is Co Chair of
the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce Tourism Board, and a member of
the Falmouth Zoning Board of Appeals.
