Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour

Cape Cod , United States

Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour

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(21 reviews)

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About this experience

Step into Cape history with a visit to Highland Lighthouse—Cape Cod’s oldest and tallest lighthouse, proudly standing watch over the Atlantic since 1797. Once a critical beacon for mariners navigating the Outer Cape’s treacherous shoals, it remains an active aid to navigation and a beloved symbol of maritime heritage.

Join us for an unforgettable stop in Truro, where you’ll have time to:
- Climb the lighthouse tower for sweeping coastal views
- Explore the keeper’s house and onsite gift shop
- Visit the Truro Highland Museum, featuring local maritime history, Edward Hopper’s Cape Cod connections, and stories from the area’s earliest tourism
- And enjoy a scenic drive to and from the Lighthouse

Whether you’re a lighthouse aficionado or simply love coastal history, this experience offers a rare glimpse into the life and legacy of Cape Cod’s rugged shoreline.

Lighthouse and museum admission included in the tour price.

Available options

Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Here we will stop and allow for an approximate 90 minute tour of both the Cape Cod Light and the Highland house Museum. We will join guided tours for both and be able to climb to the top of the oldest and tallest light house on Cape Cod! The Highland Light was built in 1797 and is rich in maritime history. This will be a guided tour of the lighthouse and we'll be able to climb to the very top!
After we will enjoy a 10 minute stroll to the Highland House museum. This is a fabulous museum where Henry David Thoreau stayed while working on his great novel Cape Cod. The museum once was the 1st hotel on the outer Cape and each room has been turned into "museum rooms" depicting what life would have been like living in the 1800's. The museum is also filled with maritime, Indian and art history. The great artists Edward & Josephine Hopper, have their very own room showcasing some of the incredible produced in the early to mid 1900's.

A beautiful museum which was one of the first hotels on The Cape. See where Henry David Thoreau stayed on his journey while writing his book Cape Cod! Visit inside the museum on a guided tour to see how life was in the 1800's!
Unfortunately, the Highland House museum will NOT be available on the Sat. 1:00 tour due to museum staffing shortage.

On our way to the historic Cape Cod Light House and Highland House Museum we'll travel thru the Provincelands National Park and take in the beautiful natural scenery of the famous Cape Cod sand dunes and iconic Beech Forest!

What's not included

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

11 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.5

10 reviews

5★

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be at least 48" tall to climb due to height of stairs & ladders

No flip flops are allowed if climbing the lighthouse tower

Meeting point

Directly in front of Provincetown Town Hall

About Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a picturesque peninsula in Massachusetts known for its charming coastal towns, beautiful beaches, and rich maritime history. With its iconic lighthouses, fresh seafood, and outdoor recreation opportunities, it's a year-round destination that offers something for everyone.

Top Attractions

Cape Cod National Seashore

A stunning stretch of coastline with pristine beaches, dunes, and hiking trails. The Seashore offers a variety of outdoor activities and is a haven for wildlife.

Nature Half-day to full-day Free (parking fees may apply)

Provincetown

A vibrant and eclectic town known for its artistic community, historic sites, and lively nightlife. Provincetown is also a popular spot for whale watching and water sports.

Cultural/Historical Half-day to full-day Varies by activity (many free attractions, whale watching tours around $50)

Hyannis

The largest town on Cape Cod, known as the gateway to the islands and a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Hyannis is also home to the Kennedy Compound, a historic site associated with the Kennedy family.

Cultural/Historical Half-day to full-day Free to explore, ferry tickets around $15-$30

Cape Cod Rail Trail

A 22-mile paved bike trail that runs through some of the most scenic areas of Cape Cod. The trail offers beautiful views of cranberry bogs, farms, and coastal landscapes.

Nature/Adventure Half-day to full-day Free (bike rentals around $20-$30 per day)

Cape Cod Museum of Art

A museum dedicated to the art and artists of Cape Cod, featuring a diverse collection of works by local and regional artists.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate ($10-$15 admission)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lobster Roll

A sandwich made with fresh lobster meat, typically served on a buttered and toasted bun. It can be served cold with mayonnaise or hot with butter.

Lunch Contains shellfish, gluten (unless served on a gluten-free bun)

Clam Chowder

A creamy and hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and celery. It's a classic New England dish and a must-try when visiting Cape Cod.

Soup Contains dairy, gluten (if served with oyster crackers or in a bread bowl)

Oysters

Freshly shucked oysters served with a variety of sauces and toppings. Cape Cod is known for its high-quality oysters, often harvested from local waters.

Appetizer Contains shellfish, raw (may not be suitable for those with compromised immune systems)

Cape Cod Crisphead Lettuce

A crisp and refreshing lettuce variety grown locally on Cape Cod. It's often used in salads and as a garnish for seafood dishes.

Salad Vegan, gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Kayaking Whale watching Sailing Beachcombing Sunbathing Yoga

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time of year with warm weather, beach season, and various festivals. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices for accommodations.

18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F) 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Portuguese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cape Cod is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night or in isolated areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas or on public transportation.
• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something feels unsafe or uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation.

Getting there

By air

Cape Cod Regional Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from downtown Hyannis
Boston Logan International Airport • 120 km (75 miles) from Cape Cod

By train

Hyannis Transportation Center

By bus

Hyannis Transportation Center, South Station, Boston

Getting around

Public transport

The CCRTA offers a network of buses that connect major towns and attractions on Cape Cod. Buses are affordable and convenient for getting around without a car.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Provincetown Hyannis Chatham Wellfleet Eastham

Day trips

Nantucket Island

30 km (19 miles) from Hyannis • Full day

A charming island known for its historic whaling history, beautiful beaches, and upscale shopping and dining. Nantucket offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Martha's Vineyard

25 km (16 miles) from Woods Hole • Full day

A picturesque island known for its diverse landscapes, including beaches, cliffs, and farmland. Martha's Vineyard offers a variety of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Plymouth

80 km (50 miles) from Cape Cod • Half day to full day

A historic town known for its role in the founding of the United States. Plymouth is home to the Mayflower II, a replica of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to America, and the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, which offer a glimpse into the lives of the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people.

Festivals

Cape Cod Jazz Festival • July Cape Cod Film Festival • August Cape Cod Fair • August

Pro tips

Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
Book ferry tickets to Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out quickly.
Explore the region's diverse towns and villages, each with its own unique character and attractions.
Try local specialties, such as lobster rolls, clam chowder, and cranberry-based dishes and desserts.
Take advantage of the region's outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and whale watching.