Museums, History, and Rainy Day Plans on Cape Cod
Pirate treasure, presidential history, scenic train rides, and free potato chips - all within 15 minutes of Relax Inn
Cape Cod Has More Than Beaches
Every Cape Cod vacation hits a cloudy day, and honestly that is when some of the best adventures happen. From real pirate shipwreck artifacts to a free factory tour with complimentary chips, the mid-Cape is packed with museums and attractions that work rain or shine. Here is what is close to Relax Inn and worth your time.
Whydah Pirate Museum
The Whydah Pirate Museum at 674 Route 28 in West Yarmouth houses artifacts from the only authenticated pirate shipwreck ever discovered. The Whydah Gally sank in a nor'easter off Wellfleet in 1717, and explorer Barry Clifford recovered its treasure starting in 1984. Admission is $15 for adults.
Inside you will find gold coins, cannons, the ship's bell (which confirmed the wreck's identity), and even the pistol of pirate captain "Black Sam" Bellamy. The working conservation lab lets you watch real artifacts being cleaned and preserved. Kids can touch actual treasure in the hands-on exhibit. It is the closest attraction to the motel - you can practically walk there.
JFK Hyannis Museum
The JFK Hyannis Museum at 397 Main Street in Hyannis captures President Kennedy's deep connection to Cape Cod through three multimedia galleries of photographs, film footage, and oral histories. Admission is just $5 for adults and free for children, making it one of the best values on the Cape.
The exhibits cover JFK's summers in Hyannis Port, his time sailing on Nantucket Sound, and the Kennedy family's lasting impact on the region. After the museum, walk down to the JFK Memorial on Ocean Street overlooking Lewis Bay, then explore the shops and restaurants along Hyannis Main Street.
Cape Cod Central Railroad
The Cape Cod Central Railroad departs from 252 Main Street in Hyannis for scenic train rides through cranberry bogs, salt marshes, and pine forests. The two-hour narrated excursion is a relaxing way to see the Cape's interior landscape without driving.
Dinner trains offer a white-tablecloth meal on rails with cocktails and live music on select evenings. The holiday season Polar Express experience sells out fast - book by early October if you are visiting in November or December. Check their schedule for brunch trains and family-themed rides throughout the summer season.
Cape Cod Potato Chips Factory
The Cape Cod Potato Chips factory in Hyannis offers a free self-guided tour where you can watch chips being kettle-cooked through large viewing windows. The factory is open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, and the whole visit takes about 20 minutes.
The best part? Everyone gets a free sample bag at the end. It is a quick, fun stop that kids love and adults find surprisingly interesting. The small retail shop sells flavors you will not find in stores. No reservation needed - just show up.
Edward Gorey House
The Edward Gorey House at 8 Strawberry Lane in Yarmouth Port is the former home of the famously eccentric artist and author known for his darkly whimsical pen-and-ink illustrations. If you have ever watched the PBS Mystery! opening credits, you have seen his work. Admission is $10 for adults.
The museum preserves Gorey's quirky personal spaces and features rotating exhibits of his original artwork and manuscripts. The gift shop is one of the most unique on the Cape. It is a small museum - plan for about 45 minutes - but fans of illustration, literature, and the beautifully strange will find it unforgettable.
Cape Cod Maritime Museum
The Cape Cod Maritime Museum at 135 South Street in Hyannis sits right on the harbor with exhibits on boat building, maritime art, and the Cape's seafaring traditions. Admission is $6. The museum features a working boat shop where you can watch traditional wooden boats being built and restored.
Seasonal programs include sailing lessons, youth boat-building workshops, and harbor tours aboard their catboat. It is a smaller museum that pairs perfectly with a walk along the Hyannis waterfront or lunch at one of the harbor restaurants.
Rainy Day Quick List
Every option within 15 minutes of Relax Inn.
| Activity | Drive Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whydah Pirate Museum | 3 min | $15 | Families, history buffs |
| JFK Hyannis Museum | 10 min | $5 (kids free) | History, couples |
| Cape Cod Central Railroad | 10 min | Varies | Families, scenic experience |
| Cape Cod Potato Chips | 10 min | Free | Everyone, quick stop |
| Edward Gorey House | 15 min | $10 | Art lovers, unique finds |
| Cape Cod Maritime Museum | 10 min | $6 | Boat enthusiasts, harbor fans |
More to Explore from Relax Inn
Pair your museum days with beach time and weekend adventures.
Beach Days
When the sun comes back out, Seagull Beach is just minutes away. See our beach guide and beach accommodation page for details.
Hyannis & Shopping
Main Street Hyannis has restaurants, galleries, and harbor views. See our Hyannis dining & nightlife guide for the full rundown.
Weekend Getaway
A 2-3 night stay gives you time for museums, beaches, and dining. See our weekend getaway guide for itinerary ideas.
