Lazy and warm summer days at the beach are exceptional, but fall on Cape Cod is one of our favorite times of year. The weather is still mild enough to enjoy beach days, the crowds are fewer, the pace is slower, and it’s the season to tour cranberry bogs on Cape Cod. Witnessing the harvest of these delightfully sweet-tart berries is a tradition on the Cape filled with old-fashioned fun that you should experience at least.Â
Of course, beyond enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of cranberry bogs on Cape Cod, you’ll find plenty more things to do this fall. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, the crisp air invites you outside to explore the numerous hiking and biking trails, while the quieter beaches are perfect for long, peaceful walks. Enjoy plenty of shopping and dining in the Cape’s small towns, and head out to local farms for cranberry bog tours. These tours provide a fascinating look at the region’s agricultural heritage and offer a behind-the-scenes experience filled with fall fun.Â
Don’t forget to leave yourself plenty of time to enjoy cozy afternoons at our wellness-oriented Cape Cod Bed and Breakfast. Located conveniently close to many attractions in the charming town of Harwich, our Cape Cod Bed and Breakfast offers guests a cozy yet stylish retreat. After a busy day of touring cranberry bogs on Cape Cod, riding the Cape Cod Rail Trail, or visiting local beaches, return to the Inn for a relaxing glass of wine by the fire. With beautifully appointed rooms and exceptional hospitality, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Book your stay today!Â
Tour Cranberry Bogs on Cape Cod
If you’ve never experienced the sights, sounds, and smells of cranberry season on Cape Cod, let this be your year! Cape Cod cranberry bogs typically start their annual harvest in late September, and it lasts until early November – which just so happens to coincide with the most beautiful parts of the fall season. The bright red of local cranberry bogs is a stark but beautiful contrast to the region’s oceans and beaches and compliments the area’s foliage nicely.Â
Throughout the season, visitors can enjoy visits and tours of various cranberry bogs on Cape Cod. You’ll witness the unique “wet harvest,” where the bogs are flooded, and the berries float to the surface, creating a stunning sea of red. Beyond touring the bogs, visitors can participate in cranberry festivals, sample cranberry-themed treats at local eateries, and even purchase fresh cranberries to take home. Some of the best places to take tours of cranberry bogs on Cape Cod include:
- Harwich Cranberry Bog Tours is the largest and oldest cranberry bog on Cape Cod, and it’s located just minutes from our Bed and Breakfast. Here, visitors can experience a guided tour of the bog, learning about the history and modern techniques of cranberry farming. When you’re done, you can visit the farm animals and purchase fantastic products in their farm store.Â
- Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association will host two public harvest bog tours in October. These tours provide an in-depth look at the entire cranberry growing and harvesting process, with knowledgeable guides offering detailed insights.
- Annie’s Crannies in Dennis offers an intimate tour of a small, family-run cranberry farm. It’s a great place to see the harvesting process at cranberry bogs on Cape Cod up close, and you’ll even get to sample fresh cranberries.
- A.D. Makepeace Company in Wareham is North America’s largest cranberry grower. This tour offers a comprehensive look at cranberry farming in all four seasons, including a chance to see the wet and dry harvests in action.
More Things to Do in Cape Cod in Fall
While you should make the time for at least one tour at local cranberry bogs on Cape Cod, there are far more things to do this fall. After all, this is the season that so perfectly captures the essence of New England charm. The cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage create the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities, whether exploring scenic trails, visiting historic sites, or strolling along the quieter, pristine beaches.Â
From whale watching to attending local festivals, there’s something for everyone. With fewer crowds in the area enjoying all the attractions, you’ll have more time and space to relax and unwind in the way you crave this fall. Below, we’ve listed a few more of our favorite things to do in Cape Cod in the fall.Â
Best Things to Do in Cape Cod in the Fall:
- The weather is still perfect throughout the fall for getting outside for some hiking or biking. With picturesque fall foliage everywhere you turn, these adventures are never more beautiful than they are in the fall! From the Cape Cod Rail Trail to fantastic local hikes winding along beaches and through parks, there are plenty of great places to experience the beautiful landscapes of the Cape.Â
- Visit historic lighthouses on Cape Cod, including iconic lights like the Nauset Light, Chatham Lighthouse, and the Highland Light.
- Attend local fall festivals and fairs, such as the Harwich Cranberry Arts and Music Festival, the Cape Cod Brew Fest, Mashpee’s Annual Oktoberfest, the Yarmouth Seaside Festival, and the Wellfleet Oyster Fest.
- Take advantage of the fall migration season to see majestic whales off the coast with guided whale-watching tours just offshore.Â
- Enjoy a leisurely walk along our favorite local Cape Cod beaches, and relish the peace and beauty of the area without the busy summer crowds.
- Shop and dine in charming coastal towns, explore the unique boutiques and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
- Take a scenic drive along Route 6A. This historic and scenic route is known for its charming villages, antique shops, and beautiful views.
- Visit art galleries and museums, and discover Cape Cod’s rich artistic heritage by visiting its many galleries and museums, showcasing local and regional art and history.
Enjoy all this and more when you stay at our wellness-oriented Cape Cod Bed and Breakfast in the charming seaside community of Harwich. We also offer Level 2 EV Chargers for our guest with electric vehicles, making your escapes to the Cape that much easier. Book your fall getaway today!
