Chatham: Cape Cod's elbow nearly surrounded by sea
Each town on the Cape has its own unique vibe, and for Chatham, says Danielle Janloz, director of the Atwood Museum, it’s the small-town feel. Chatham — known for being at the “elbow” of the “arm” of Cape Cod — is an easily walkable area scattered with trails and ponds.
“What’s nice about Chatham is it’s about four miles by four miles … and it’s kind of a square with rounded corners so everything is close by,” says Jeanloz. “If you’re a walker, you can … walk to every place.”
From biking trails to places to picnic, nature is both plentiful and accessible in the 17 square miles. The town is surrounded by water on three sides, resulting in plenty of spots for sightseeing and fishing, as well as restaurants and shopping. There are activities in Chatham for various ages and interests, including history: Chatham was settled back in 1656.
Here’s a snapshot of what the town has to offer.
(Keep in mind that parts of Chatham have been designated Mandatory Mask Zones by the Chatham Board of Health, with everyone required to wear masks from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. masks on Main Street, from the rotary to School Street; on the Lighthouse Beach overlook and stairs; at the Fish Pier Observation Deck; and at the transfer station. Penalties are up to $300 per violation.)
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Claims to fame
One of the most famous rescues in Coast Guard history happened off Chatham and was the basis for the 2009 book “The Finest Hours,” and the action/thriller movie of it released in 2016. The book co-written by Hyannis native Casey Sherman and film, starring Chris Pine, Casey Affleck and Ben Foster, depicts events from February 1952 when an oil tank split in half during a terrible nor’easter, and four members of the Coast Guard volunteered to brave the storm and rescued 32 sailors from the sinking ship.
Fun facts
Chatham has and has had its share of famous residents: from the past, Oscar and Tony-winning actress Shirley Booth (who bequeathed her Oscar statue to the Cape Playhouse in Dennis); six-time Tony Award-winning actress Julie Harris (who became involved in area theater); from the present, singer Harry Connick, Jr. and best-selling authors Bernard Cornwell and Lisa Genova.
Another fun fact
The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, which leads research, tagging and tracking efforts for great white sharks on the Cape, is located in North Chatham. Their next phase of research (2019-2023) will focus largely on public safety, according to its website. The Conservancy offers ways for the public to get involved, through online donation initiatives like “Support a Shark.” Check out their https://www.atlanticwhiteshark.org/shark-center to see images of the sharks and learn their names. (The Shark Center — which offers interactive exhibits and displays about Great Whites — hopes to be among the museums to reopen during Phase 3 of state guidelines, time TBD.)
Historical places to visit
To explore Chatham history virtually until museums reopen, head over to Atwood Museum’s website at chathamhistoricalsociety.com and browse through some exhibits online. (The museum is at 347 Stage Harbor Road when it reopens.) Or take a drive to see Chatham Bars Inn on Shore Road — a grand hotel built in 1914 by stockbroker Charles Hardy as a hunting lodge — and take in the flowers there and water views. Also consider paying a visit to the “Old Village” National Register Historic District, which was established in 2001. The dense web of streets from the 19th century is a historic residential area between Chatham Harbor to the east, Mill Pond/Little Mill Pond to the west, and the lighthouse on James Head at the southern tip.
Other attractions
If you’d like an inside look at a popular industry in the northeast, stop by Chatham Fish Pier and watch as commercial fishermen bring in their catch of the day (they typically return a bit after noon, but it depends on the tide). While you’re there, check out the Fisherman's Monument, dedicated in 1992, created to symbolize the significance of the fishing industry to the town. The pier is located on the corner of Shore Road and Barcliff Avenue on Aunt Lydia’s Cove at 54 Barcliff Road Extension. (Remember that masks are required.)
Some beaches worth seeing
Grab some beach towels, sunscreen and chairs and explore a beach or two. If you’re looking for kid-friendly (and perhaps not the quietest option, due to nearby traffic), stop by Oyster Pond on Stage Harbor Road and Kingsbury Way. If you’re looking for open spaces, a bike rack and boats, consider paying Cockle Cove a visit (Taylor’s Pond Road off Cockle Cove Road). And if you’re looking for expanses of sand to relax on a beach chair with a book, check out Harding Beach on Harding Beach Road.
A place to hike or bike
If you have a free hour, explore the area by foot on the Frost Fish Creek walking trail (Orleans Road, Route 28, near the former Acme Laundry, North Chatham), which includes a glimpse of a former cranberry operation that has reverted to wetlands. Keep an eye out for seasonal birds and mammals.
Getting out into nature
Monomoy Wildlife Refuge was established in 1944 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and its 7,000 acres is full of freshwater ponds and salt marshes. Keep an eye out for seals, whales and dolphins. The main part of Monomoy is only accessible by boat, but Morris Island, which totals about 40 acres, has a one-mile trail that lets visitors delve into nature and enjoy some scenic views (Morris Island is found at 30 Wikis Way). Wildlife you might see include endangered species like the piping plover, American oystercatcher and roseate terns.
Where to see a sunset/sunrise
One east-facing spot to take in the sunrise is at Chatham Lighthouse Beach (30 Main St.).
What the kids might like
Consider carving out some time to stop by Chatham Candy Manor, a dessert destination founded back in 1955 that offers everything from chocolate lobster pops to gummy sharks to chocolate-dipped rice krispie treats. Currently, the store is closed to guests, but orders can be taken online, over the phone or at the door (https://candymanor.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/ChathamCandyManor/).
Into sports?
Whether you’ve had a tackle box for years, or it’s your first time picking up a fishing pole, Chatham has plenty of fishing opportunities. If you’d like to get out on the water, consider joining one of the area fishing charters. From flounder to tuna to striped bass, there’s a fish to be caught for every skill level. Per Massachusetts guidelines, you’ll need a permit for saltwater fishing if you’re over 16 and a permit for freshwater fishing if you’re over 15.
Looking for a treat?
If you’re in the mood for a treat with a twist (literally), consider stopping by Buffy’s Ice Cream at 456 Main St. and indulging in a creamsicle twist — orange sorbet and vanilla yogurt — vegan raspberry ice cream or a cone dipped in their pink sprinkles.
Spot with a view
If you’re an early-morning person who likes to start the day with some exercise and a beautiful backdrop, Chatham Beach Yoga takes place from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. at Chatham Lighthouse Beach. Beginners are welcome. Social distancing is required. Visit their website to learn more: https://chathamyoga.com/.
Some open restaurants
There are multiple restaurants right in the downtown area. Impudent Oyster, with a menu offering an array of items that include butternut bisque, tuna matsui and a key lime cheesecake, offers takeout and, as of last week, indoor dining. Del Mar Bar & Bistro (907 Main St.) has dining on its patio (a two-course a la carte menu) and on picnic tables in its garden (seafood, pizza and more) plus takeout.
Where the shops are
Rain or shine, enjoy a walk down Main Street, and browse through a host of local businesses. Artful Hand Gallery (459 B Main St.) has a selection of jewelry, candles, coasters, posters, picture frames and more. Keep walking and you’ll find an abundance of clothing shops like Sundance Clothing (497 Main St.), home goods stores like Chatham Home (443 Main St.) plus other stops for souvenirs and gifts. Don’t forget your mask!
An unusual stop
Ducks in the Window (507 Main St.) boasts that it’s the largest rubber duck retail store in the world. An airplane pilot duck? They’ve got that. An Ariana Grande-themed duck? They’ve got that, too. And you’re looking for a more personalized touch, consider a jumbo rubber duck, select either a Sailor’s Cap or a Nantucket Straw Bonnet and they’ll embroider it with anything you’d like.
What you might not know
You can stroll through Main Street, grab a bite to eat and shop for as long as you like — there are no parking meters or fees at the three large parking lots.
