The Best Art Museums in Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Massachusetts, Cape Cod is not only renowned for its scenic beauty but also for its vibrant artistic scene.
From galleries showcasing local artists’ works to museums preserving the region’s cultural heritage, Cape Cod offers a wealth of artistic treasures waiting to be explored.
In this article, I have set out Cape Cod’s best art museums, highlighting their unique offerings and diverse collections. From the Cape Cod Museum of Art to the Cobb House Museum, each destination has its own story to tell and treasures to unveil. So, whether you’re interested in fine art, contemporary exhibits, historical artifacts, or the distinct artistic identity of the Cape, these museums are sure to captivate your imagination and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
I have included opening times for each museum that are correct at the time of writing this article, but please check the latest information before your visit.
You may also be interested in my articles about art museums in Boston, Connecticut or the largest art museums in USA.
Table of Contents
2. Cahoon Museum of American Art
4. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
1. Cape Cod Museum of Art
Address: Cape Cod Museum of Art, 60 Hope Ln, Dennis, MA 02638, United States
Admission: From $10
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm and Sunday, 12pm to 4pm
Located in Dennis, the Cape Cod Museum of Art (CCMOA) is a captivating destination that beautifully merges art and nature. From traditional to contemporary works, the museum’s exhibits provide a comprehensive view of the Cape’s artistic heritage.
The Cape’s natural beauty and luminous light have inspired Impressionist artists, and the museum showcases their works.
The museum’s permanent collection includes works by influential artists who have had an impact on the art world in general. The museum highlights significant artists and collections, such as Alexander Calder, the Morris Cohen Collection of American Impressionists, and a recent anonymous gift of a Hans Hofmann painting.
The exhibition showcases sculptures from the museum’s Permanent Collection, which consists of over 200 sculptures. The artworks are created by historically significant Cape Cod sculptors and are displayed in three galleries at CCMoA.
2. Cahoon Museum of American Art
Address: Cahoon Museum of American Art, 4676 Falmouth Rd, Cotuit, MA 02635, United States
Admission: From $10
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm
The Cahoon Museum of American Art is a museum located in Cotuit, Massachusetts.
The museum has a diverse collection of art that represents various mediums, including paintings, three-dimensional art, works on paper, and furniture and spans from the 18th century to the present.
The museum is dedicated to showcasing American art, particularly works by local and regional artists. The museum is named after the renowned folk artists Ralph and Martha Cahoon, who lived in Cotuit and gained recognition for their distinctive paintings. Other notable artists in the collection include Thomas Hart Benton, Nancy Maybin Ferguson, Scott Prior amongst others.
The museum is housed in a historic building known as the Crocker House, which was built in the early 19th century. The house itself is an architectural gem and adds to the museum’s charm and character.
3. Falmouth Art Center
Address: Falmouth Art Center, 137 Gifford St, Falmouth, MA 02540, United States
Admission: Free admission
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, Saturday, 10am to 2pm and Sunday, 1pm to 4pm
The Falmouth Art Center is a community art center dedicated to the visual arts, providing educational and exhibition opportunities on a year-round basis. Falmouth Art Center has three galleries: Hermann Gallery, Sigel Gallery, and Landrau-Partan Gallery. The exhibits in these galleries change monthly. The center also has a call for art for the Cape Cod Works exhibition, which is a non-juried show and open to all mediums.
4. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
Address: Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, 869 Main St, Brewster, MA 02631, United States
Admission: From $15
Opening Hours: Daily 10am to 3pm
While primarily focused on natural history, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster showcases the intrinsic artistic beauty of the region.
Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the unique ecosystems and wildlife of Cape Cod, revealing the artistic inspiration found in nature’s creations. The museum’s permanent collection features interactive displays, allowing visitors to engage with the exhibits and gain a deeper understanding of the local environment.
Naturescape Gallery at the museum is a rotating art exhibit featuring artists from Cape Cod and the New England area. The gallery is located in the Museum’s auditorium adjacent to the entrance. Steve Swain, a steel sculptor, has a long-term exhibit called “Frying Pan Gallery” featuring steel renditions of marine life, as has James Prosek, an award-winning artist, who has a long-term exhibit featuring life-sized fine art prints of Atlantic fishes.
5. Cape Cod Maritime Museum
Address: Cape Cod Maritime Museum, 135 South St, Hyannis, MA 02601, United States
Admission: From $10
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm
Situated on Main Street in Hyannis, the Cape Cod Maritime Museum is a captivating tribute to the region’s seafaring past.
With its fascinating exhibits, the museum delves into Cape Cod’s maritime history, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship involved in boat building and navigation. From lighthouses, detailed ship models to captivating displays on the Cape’s maritime traditions, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich nautical heritage of the area.
The Cape Cod Maritime Museum also has an art gallery that promotes the artwork of local students. This gallery is sponsored by the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod and Cape Cod Five.
6. John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum
Address: John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, 397 Main St, Hyannis, MA 02601, United States
Admission: From $12
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm
Located on Main Street in Hyannis, The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum serves as a tribute to the late President John F. Kennedy and his connection to Cape Cod.
Through an exceptional collection of photographs, artifacts, and personal memorabilia, visitors can gain insight into Kennedy’s life, political career, and his love for the Cape.
The museum’s exhibits capture significant moments in Kennedy’s presidency and highlight the impact he had on the local community. The museum offers a unique blend of history, art, and personal narratives that preserve the enduring legacy of one of America’s most iconic figures.
7. Whydah Pirate Museum
Address: Whydah Pirate Museum, 674 MA-28, West Yarmouth, MA 02673, United States
Admission: From $17
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am to 5pm
Venture into the realm of pirates at the Whydah Pirate Museum in West Yarmouth.
This immersive museum invites visitors to explore the captivating world of the Golden Age of Piracy. Visitors can step aboard a replica pirate ship and journey through interactive exhibits that bring to life the adventures, treasures, and trials of notorious pirates.
From authentic artifacts recovered from the Whydah pirate shipwreck to engaging displays on pirate lore and history, the museum offers an enthralling experience for both history and pirate enthusiasts.
With its extensive collection, the Whydah Pirate Museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into Cape Cod’s fascinating pirate past.
8. Highland House Museum
Address: Highland House Museum, 6 Highland Light Rd, Truro, MA 02666, United States
Admission: From $8
Opening Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, 10am to 4.30pm, Tuesday, 10am to 2pm, Saturday, 10am to 1pm
The Highland House Museum in Truro, is a renowned historical landmark that once served as a seasonal hotel. Today, it houses a captivating museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the people of Truro and the Outer Cape.
The museum showcases permanent exhibits that explore various aspects of the region’s history, including the Indigenous people who inhabited the area before European settlement, the salt mill industry, the impact of the railroad, and domestic crafts like weaving and embroidery.
The museum also boasts a remarkable art collection that reflects the enduring admiration for the area’s natural beauty.
The museum is currently presenting the exhibition “Wampanoag Nation: People of the First Light”, which honors the history and culture of the Indigenous people who called Cape Cod home for centuries, celebrating their vibrant cultural life that continues to thrive despite ongoing challenges.
9. Atwood House
Address: Atwood House, 347 Stage Harbor Rd, Chatham, MA 02633, United States
Admission: From $10
Opening Hours: Times vary, but generally Tuesdays-Saturdays 10am to 4pm
Located in Chatham, the Atwood House invites visitors to explore the intersection of history and art. Housed within a historic 18th-century structure, the museum showcases a diverse collection of period furniture, artifacts, and artwork that illuminate Chatham’s rich heritage.
Visitors can explore the 18th century Herb Garden, planted and maintained by The Chatham Garden Club.
Some of the Museum highlights include The Joseph A. Nickerson, Jr. Portrait Gallery, displaying Chatham-born local sea captains, painted by Frederick Wight and The Mural Barn, housing the nationally-renowned paintings of local residents by Alice Stallknecht Wight. The Joseph C. Lincoln Gallery containing manuscripts, first editions, illustrations and ephemera related to the Cape Cod author.
10. Cobb House Museum
Address: Cobb House Museum, 739 Lower Rd, Brewster, MA 02631, United States
Admission: From $7
Opening Hours: Times vary, but generally Friday-Saturday, 1pm to 4pm
The Captain Elijah Cobb House is a historically significant building associated with renowned sea captain Elijah Cobb and his descendants. It serves as a museum and testament to the rich maritime history of Brewster.
The house, along with its artifacts and records, is preserved and maintained by the Brewster Historical Society.
Art Festivals in Cape Cod
There are several art festivals and events that take place in Cape Cod throughout the year:
Cape Cod Festival of the Arts: Held at Chase Park, Chatham, this festival takes place in August and features over 120 artists and craftspeople presenting their original and handcrafted artwork, jewelry, fabric, pottery, and more. This festival is the premier summer arts and crafts event on Cape Cod.
By the Bay Father’s Day Weekend Art and Craft Show: This event takes place annually in June and features a variety of Cape Cod artists and artisans. It is held at Drummer Boy Park on Route 6A in Brewster. Visitors will find artworks in various forms from oil paintings, watercolors, pottery, photography, glass, leather, or hand-crafted jewelry.
Cape Cod Hydrangea Fest: This festival takes place across Cape Cod every July and features garden tours, workshops, and other events celebrating Cape Cod’s famous hydrangeas.
Other Art Museums in Massachusetts
Here are some other art museums in Massachusetts outside of Cape Cod:
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston: One of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world, the MFA Boston houses an extensive collection spanning thousands of years and diverse cultures. It showcases masterpieces from renowned artists and offers a wide range of exhibitions, educational programs, and special events.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston: This unique museum features the personal collection of Isabella Stewart Gardner, a prominent art collector and philanthropist. Housed in a stunning Venetian-style palace, the museum showcases an eclectic mix of European, Asian, and American art, along with lush gardens and a vibrant atmosphere.
Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston: Dedicated to contemporary art in various mediums, the ICA Boston presents thought-provoking exhibitions, performances, and installations by local and international artists. With its striking waterfront location and dynamic programming, it fosters dialogue and engagement with contemporary art and culture.
Peabody Essex Museum, Salem: Located in historic Salem, the Peabody Essex Museum boasts an extensive collection of art and cultural artifacts from around the world. Its diverse exhibitions explore global connections and showcase works from different time periods, including contemporary art, maritime art, and Asian art.
Worcester Art Museum, Worcester: Known for its diverse collection and innovative programming, the Worcester Art Museum offers a rich cultural experience. It houses an extensive collection of European, American, and Asian art, including works by renowned artists, and hosts engaging exhibitions, educational initiatives, and community events.
Clark Art Institute, Williamstown: Set amidst the picturesque Berkshire Mountains, the Clark Art Institute features an impressive collection of European and American art. Its renowned collection includes works by masters like Renoir, Monet, and Homer. The museum also offers beautiful grounds, hiking trails, and an active exhibition schedule.
Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA), North Adams: Situated in a vast former factory complex, MASS MoCA is the largest center for contemporary visual and performing arts in the United States. It showcases cutting-edge installations, exhibits, and performances, often featuring large-scale and immersive works by leading contemporary artists.
Norman Rockwell Museum, Stockbridge: Devoted to the iconic American illustrator Norman Rockwell, this museum celebrates his life and art. It houses the world’s largest collection of Rockwell’s original works, including his beloved Saturday Evening Post covers, providing insight into the artist’s impact on American culture.
deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, Lincoln: With a focus on contemporary sculpture and New England art, deCordova is both a sculpture park and a museum. Its expansive outdoor grounds feature large-scale installations and sculptures, while the museum showcases diverse exhibitions exploring the intersections of art, nature, and culture.
These art museums in Massachusetts offer visitors a diverse range of artistic experiences, from classical masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary art. Each institution showcases unique collections, exhibitions, and programs that contribute to the rich cultural landscape of the state.
For more detailed information about Boston, please see my article about The Best Art Museums and Galleries in Boston, Massachusetts.
I hope you have found this information about art museums in Cape Code interesting. If you have visited this area, I would love to hear your thoughts, please email me and let me know at sarahransomeart@gmail.com.
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