Quick Summary:

  • Barnstable is a town in Massachusetts and the county seat of Barnstable County, the largest community on Cape Cod.
  • North of Barnstable are the dunes of Sandy Neck along Barnstable Harbor, with the Sandy Neck Light on one end.
  • Most people live along the beaches of Centreville and Hyannis Harbors.
  • The Coast Guard Heritage Museum is located in the old Customs House.
  • Craigville Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area.


  • Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Cahoon Museum of American Art ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Museums & Culture
Cahoon Museum of American Art | Things to Do in Barnstable, Massachusetts
© Cahoon Museum of American Art

2. Coast Guard Heritage Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Museums & Culture
Coast Guard Heritage Museum | Things to Do in Barnstable, Massachusetts
© Coast Guard Heritage Museum

3. Sturgis Library

Category: Kids & Family
Sturgis Library | Things to Do in Barnstable, Massachusetts
© Sturgis Library

4. St. Mary's Episcopal Church

St. Mary's Episcopal Church | Things to Do in Barnstable, Massachusetts
© LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS/stock.adobe.com

5. Barnstable Old Gaol

Category: Food & Drink
Barnstable Old Gaol | Things to Do in Barnstable, Massachusetts
© Talulla/stock.adobe.com

6. Barnstable County Courthouse

Category: Food & Drink
Barnstable County Courthouse | Things to Do in Barnstable, Massachusetts
© Jessica Dale/stock.adobe.com

Summary & FAQ Cahoon Museum of American Art Coast Guard Heritage Museum Sturgis Library St. Mary's Episcopal Church Barnstable Old Gaol Barnstable County Courthouse

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