Blake Walsh

21 Best Things to Do in Mashpee, MA

  • Published 2023/05/02

Mashpee is a quaint small town on lovely Cape Cod in Barnstable County, Massachusetts.

The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe calls this place home and is also a popular tourist destination.

Tourists who want to come here and explore everything that Mashpee offers will find no shortage of activities to keep them busy.

You can also explore the downtown, visit some unique shops, or enjoy a meal at one of the town’s many restaurants.

Mashpee has no shortage of activities for tourists to enjoy.

If you’re looking for things to do while you’re there, here are the best options in Mashpee, MA:

Visit the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum

Signage of Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum

Thomas Kelly, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mashpee is home to the Wampanoag Tribe, one of the country’s two federally recognized Wampanoag tribes.

The Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Tribe.

The museum has exhibits on the Tribe’s history, culture, and contemporary life.

There is also a gift shop where you can purchase handmade Native American arts and crafts.

You can take an unguided tour or ask the friendly staff to show you around.

Unfortunately, the museum is only open on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Take a Hike through the Mashpee River Reservation

View of the Mashpee River Reservation

John Phelan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Stroll around the pristine Mashpee River and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

The Mashpee River Reservation is excellent for a leisurely hike or walk.

Located north of downtown Mashpee, this is a great spot to get some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors.

You can go trekking, mountain biking, or bring your dog for some much-needed exercise.

The Mashpee River Reservation is also an excellent spot for fishing, so don’t forget to bring your rod and reel.

This river reserve is one of Massachusetts’ finest sources of rare, sea-run brook trout, so keep your eyes peeled on the water.

The Mashpee River Reservation is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

So, pack a lunch and enjoy a day out in nature.

Play Mini Golf at the Mashpee Mini Golf

If you’re looking for a fun activity you and your entire family can enjoy, head to Mashpee Mini Golf.

Located on Steeple Street near downtown Mashpee, this 18-hole mini-golf course is perfect for a day of fun.

Your kids will love trying to get a hole-in-one, and you can enjoy the Cape Cod Canal’s beautiful views while playing.

You can even play twice if it’s not a crowded day.

The Mashpee Mini Golf incorporates new course designs and themes each year.

Come back and play again and again and never get bored.

After your game, stop by the on-site ice cream shop for a sweet treat.

The Mashpee Mini Golf course is open daily.

Buy Something at the Mashpee Commons

The street of Mashpee Commons

John Phelan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Are you looking to buy gifts and items to bring home?

Then make sure to drop by the Mashpee Commons, an open-air shopping center in downtown Mashpee.

The Mashpee Commons has a variety of stores, including clothing stores, art galleries, home goods stores, and much more.

You’re sure to find something for everyone on your list.

The black dog shop in Mashpee Commons

John Phelan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

After you finish shopping, you can relax at one of the Mashpee Commons’ restaurants or cafes.

Otherwise, take a walk around the beautiful grounds and enjoy the fresh air.

The Mashpee Commons is a great place to stroll around and get to know the community more.

It’s also the best spot to socialize with the locals and meet new friends.

Get a Massage at the Cape Cod Day Spa

If you want to relax and rejuvenate during your stay in Mashpee, then you need to visit the Cape Cod Day Spa.

This full-service spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.

You can also enjoy a day of pampering with the spa’s package deals.

The Cape Cod Day Spa is the perfect place to unwind and escape the stresses of daily life.

If you’ve spent the day exploring beautiful Mashpee, you deserve a massage.

The Cape Cod Day Spa is the perfect destination for quality relaxation.

The spa is open Monday through Saturday.

You can also call to make an appointment.

Explore the Wild at the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge

Do you want to see wild animals in their natural habitat?

If so, then you need to visit the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge.

Visitors can go hiking, hunting, and wildlife watching.

The refuge is home to various animals, including deer, rabbits, squirrels, and birds.

The Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place to connect with nature and the wild.

It’s also the ideal place to take a bunch of memorable photos.

Spend a Day at the South Cape Beach State Park

The waters of South Cape Beach State Park

Adam Gladstone / Shutterstock.com

Located in the Southeast part of Mashpee, the South Cape Beach State Park is a public beach with magnificent views of Cape Cod Bay.

The beach has a long stretch of fine sand where you can sunbathe, relax, and enjoy the stunning views.

Boardwalk at South Cape Beach State Park

Adam Gladstone / Shutterstock.com

If you love swimming, you’ll be happy to know that the water is clean and clear.

The South Cape Beach State Park has playgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

This park is the perfect spot if you want to spend a day at the beach with your family or friends.

Winter view of South Cape Beach State Park

John Phelan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Bring Your Kids to Cape Cod Children’s Museum

Located in Great Neck Road South, Cape Cod Children’s Museum is the largest and only museum on Cape Cod dedicated entirely to children.

Established in 1990, this 105(c)(3) non-profit museum has provided educational fun for children.

The museum has a variety of interactive exhibits that focus on art, science, and culture.

The shows spark the imagination and creativity of children.

The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, including workshops, classes, and camps.

If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity for your kids, then the Cape Cod Children’s Museum is the perfect place.

Visit the Popponesset Marketplace

The Popponesset Marketplace is a favorite place to visit among locals and tourists alike.

You can find this open-air marketplace in the village of Popponesset, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

The small yet crowded marketplace offers several gift shops and variety stores.

Buy gifts or unique items to take home if you feel hungry while shopping.

You can stop by one of the restaurants and eateries for a quick bite.

There’s also an ice cream and smoothie shop that will keep you cool on hot days.

The Popponesset Marketplace is open year-round and is the perfect place to find something special.

Go on an Outdoor Adventure at Mashpee River Woodlands Trail

If you’re up for some outdoor trailing adventure, you’ll want to check out the Mashpee River Woodlands Trail.

Find this scenic trail in the heart of Mashpee.

It’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely hike or walk.

The trail is also great for biking, bird watching, and picnicking.

There’s also a playground and pavilion, making it the perfect place to bring the kids.

Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely walk in the park, the Mashpee River Woodlands Trail is sure to please.

Have a Scenic Time at Johns Pond Park

Johns Pond Park is one of the prettiest and most tranquil spots in Mashpee, famous for its gorgeous waters.

What accentuates the overall beauty of this pond is its sandy beach that almost looks like it’s an oceanfront park.

Hence, you can do a lot of recreational activities here, whether it’s sunbathing, reading a book by the water, or swimming.

Not many people go here because Mashpee isn’t that populous to begin with, so this is a perfect place to relax and take in the views.

Johns Pond Park is located along Back Road by the southwestern portion of Mashpee.

Trek through the Lowell Holly Reservation

Scenic view of the Lowell Holly Reservation

John Phelan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Lowell Holly Reservation is a beautiful spot in Mashpee to do all sorts of nature activities.

This is one of the few places that’ll let you enjoy the two prominent ponds in Mashpee, particularly the Wakeby Pond and the Mashpee Pond.

As you traverse its trails, you’ll see a lot of beautiful plant life and the occasional wildlife as well.

Lowell Holly Reservation is hilly in nature, so be sure you’re fit and ready to take on its sprawling trails.

You can access it along Sandwich Road north of the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum.

Spend a Relaxing Time at Attaquin Park

Attaquin Park is one of the easiest places to access when traveling to Mashpee as it’s located right at the heart of the township.

It’s famous for having a sandy shore like Johns Pond Park, but this time you’re right by the Mashpee Pond instead.

Attaquin Park has more locals going there, so it’s not as tranquil—in return, you’re immersed in the lively community of Mashpee.

There’s a lot to do here, such as play basketball, volleyball, and other sports that are available in this large park.

Swimming is also a common activity during the summer months.

Attaquin Park is located along Park Avenue.

Grab a Beer in Naukabout Brewery and Taproom

Naukabout Brewery and Taproom is located in Attaquin Park, so this one is a can’t-miss during your trip.

It’s perhaps the most famous brewery in Mashpee, serving cold beer and other beverages that’s perfect to bring to the beach.

Naukabout Brewery and Taproom also has a festive ambiance—occasionally, they host live music.

You can even play board games here, and there are food trucks from time to time.

A great way to enjoy a beer with the community by the pond, Naukabout Brewery and Taproom is a must-experience.

Stroll Around Mashpee Community Park

Mashpee Community Park is a great place to do some strolling.

The community park often hosts a lot of live music concerts, so it’s a great place to enjoy the simple vibes of Mashpee.

Just a few minutes via walk from Attaquin Park, this is also a great way to explore the neighborhoods of the township.

If you need to do some jogging, this is a great place to visit on top of Attaquin Park.

Mashpee Community Park can be accessed along Great Neck Road.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Visit the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

Aquarium at Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

Jllm06, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You must visit the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History to learn more about Mashpee and its surrounding areas.

Find this place in Brewster, Massachusetts, 37 minutes from Mashpee.

This museum has exhibits on the area’s history, culture, and natural environment.

Exhibit of birds at Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

Jllm06, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History is a great place to learn about the area’s natural history and ecology.

In addition, the museum has exhibitions on the Cape’s geology, flora, and fauna.

You can also check out the museum’s live animals, including turtles, snakes, and lizards.

The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History is open daily.

Display at Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

Jllm06, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Unwind at Eli’s Tavern

Eli’s Tavern is a unique restaurant and bar located in Falmouth, Massachusetts, 22 minutes from Mashpee.

This family-owned establishment has served delicious food and drinks for over 30 years.

Eli’s Tavern is known for its fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and live music.

You can order classic American fares like burgers and fries or try something new like lobster mac and cheese.

Eli’s Tavern also has a full bar to enjoy a glass of wine or beer with your meal.

If you’re looking for a relaxed and fun place to eat and drink, then Eli’s Tavern is the perfect spot.

Enjoy Some Fine Wine at Cape Cod Winery

Vineyard at Cape Cod Winery

SydneyElizabeth / Shutterstock.com

For wine connoisseurs, the Cape Cod Winery is an absolute must-visit!

You’ll find this place in Falmouth, Massachusetts, 17 minutes away from Mashpee.

It’s a short drive that you won’t regret.

Cape Cod Winery is one of the most famous vineyards on all of Cape Cod.

The winery offers a variety of red, white, and blush wines.

Likewise, the winery produces all its wine on-site from the finest grapes.

The Cape Cod Winery also offers a variety of wine tastings and tours, which are the perfect way to learn about wine-making.

You can enjoy fine wine while enjoying Falmouth’s breathtaking shoreline view.

If you love wine, you’ll want to add the Cape Cod Winery to your list of places to visit around Mashpee.

Celebrate Mashpee’s Landscape and Culture at Heritage Museums & Gardens

Beautiful view of the Heritage Museums & Gardens

Yingna Cai / Shutterstock.com

The Heritage Museum & Gardens is one of the unique places to visit while in Mashpee.

You’ll find this attraction in Sandwich, Massachusetts, 18 minutes from Mashpee.

This living museum celebrates Mashpee’s landscape and culture through various exhibitions, programs, and events.

Tree house at Heritage Museums & Gardens

Yingna Cai / Shutterstock.com

The museum is home to various historic buildings, including a one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and general store.

You can also explore the beautiful gardens, which feature a variety of native plants and flowers.

The Heritage Museum & Gardens is the perfect place to learn about Mashpee’s rich history and culture if you’re looking for a unique educational experience.

Walkway at Heritage Museums & Gardens

Yingna Cai / Shutterstock.com

Visit the Cahoon Museum of American Art

Exterior view of the Cahoon Museum of American Art

Kdionnecahoon, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Cahoon Museum of American Art is one of the most underrated attractions near Mashpee.

You’ll find this small yet mighty museum in the historic Cahoon Homestead.

It’s filled with various historic and contemporary American art.

It’s in Cotuit, Massachusetts, five minutes from Mashpee.

The Cahoon Museum of American Art is the perfect place to check out various American art, from paintings and sculptures to furniture and folk art.

This museum is the place for you if you’re looking for a unique cultural experience.

See a Show at Cape Cod Melody Tent

Exterior of Cape Cod Melody Tent

John Phelan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Cape Cod Melody Tent is one of Mashpee’s most popular summertime attractions.

This unique theater is inside a large tent and has entertained audiences for over 60 years.

You’ll find this place in Hyannis, Massachusetts, 23 minutes from Mashpee.

The Cape Cod Melody Tent hosts a variety of musical acts, comedy shows, and Broadway musicals.

It is the perfect place to enjoy a night out filled with fun and entertainment with friends or family.

Final Thoughts

Mashpee is sprawling with other fun and exciting things to do.

So, no matter your interests, you’re sure to find something to do in this charming town.

From celebrating art to enjoying a fun and memorable day outdoors with your family, Mashpee is sure to have something that will keep you on your feet while you’re there.

You’ll want to add these activities to your list of things to do the next time you visit Mashpee.

It showcases the complete Mashpee experience from top to bottom.

Book your trip today!

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