Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour

Cape Cod , United States

Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour

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About this experience

Embark on a privately guided journey through Truro’s soul, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. This tour weaves together three iconic Cape Cod landmarks: The Highland House Museum, Highland Links Golf Course, and the historic Highland Light. Begin at Highland Light, Cape Cod’s oldest lighthouse (1797). Ascend 69 steps to the lantern room for panoramic Atlantic Ocean views and hear the thrilling tale of its 1996 relocation. Next, step into the Highland House Museum, a 1907 farmhouse-turned-hotel-turned-cultural gem. Once a haven for literary giant Henry David Thoreau, who penned parts of Cape Cod here. Explore rooms inspired by Edward and Josephine Hopper’s artistry. Stroll along the Highland Links Golf Course, America’s first 9-hole links course. Nestled amid rolling dunes and windswept grasses. This private tour blends rich history, cultural depth, and stunning coastal scenery, Available June-September only.

Available options

Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour

What's included

Admission fee

Detailed itinerary

Truro’s Timeless Trio: A Thrilling 2-Hour Guided Tour of Highland House, Highland Links & Cape Cod Lighthouse

Dive into Truro’s captivating past with our exhilarating 90 minute guided tour through the Cape Cod National Seashore’s historic gems! Start at the legendary Cape Cod Lighthouse (Highland Light, est. 1797), Cape Cod’s oldest beacon. Ascend 69 steps for jaw-dropping Atlantic vistas, uncovering tales of shipwrecks, its daring 1996 cliff-edge rescue, and visits by Thoreau and Hopper. Next, wander to the Highland House Museum, a 1907 hotel reborn as a cultural treasure. Marvel at Wampanoag artifacts, step into Hopper-inspired rooms, and admire vibrant local art. End with a scenic trek across Highland Links Golf Course (c. 1892), spotting rare migratory birds and ancient flora, capped with a zesty local seafood tasting. Meet at 6 Highland Light Rd, North Truro. June-September, $15 ticket. Book now—parking vanishes fast!

Perched on Truro’s cliffs in the Cape Cod National Seashore, Highland Light, established in 1797, is Cape Cod’s oldest and tallest lighthouse at 66 feet. Commissioned by George Washington, it guards treacherous waters with a flashing LED beacon. Moved 450 feet inland in 1996 to escape erosion, it offers 69-step climbs for stunning Atlantic views.

Nestled in Truro’s dramatic Cape Cod National Seashore, Highland Links Golf Course, dating to circa 1892, is a 9-hole Scottish-style gem perched on bluffs overlooking the Atlantic. Its rugged fairways, windswept dunes, and deep bunkers challenge golfers amid breathtaking ocean views. Near Highland Light, this historic course blends natural beauty with timeless play. Open April-October, book at 10 Highland Light Rd, North Truro.

What's not included

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

All tours meet directly in Front of the Truro Historical Society- Highland House Museum, Highland Light Road, Truro, Ma.

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.