5 (1)
Cape Cod
Provincetown History: West End Walking Tour
105
Overview
The Provincetown West End History Tour is a 90-minute walk led by a guide, Cathy, through the charming West End. It feels like stepping back in time, exploring old homes, wharves, and lighthouses along Provincetown Harbor.
Participants will discover the maritime history, pilgrim stories, and artsy vibe of this unique Cape Cod town. The tour stops at places like the Coast Guard Station Provincetown and the Seth Nickerson House (the oldest house in town). It also visits Captain Jack’s Wharf, Long Point Lighthouse, the floating homes of Long Point, Land’s End Inn, The Red Inn, Provincetown Inn, and Pilgrims’ First Landing Park. The tour covers about half a mile along Commercial Street.
Admission fees are included. A pedi-cab ride back to the center of town after the tour is not included. The tour shows the timeless and ever-changing spirit of Provincetown. 
Highlights
Explore Historic West End: Stroll through Provincetown's charming West End and see historic sites.
Discover Local History: Learn about the maritime, pilgrim, and artistic history of Provincetown.
Visit Key Landmarks: See famous spots like Long Point Lighthouse and the oldest house in town.
Enjoy a Guided Walk: A guide shares stories of the town as you walk at a relaxed pace.
Sentiment Analysis
Generally, customers enjoyed the Provincetown West End History Tour because of the knowledgeable guide and the peaceful walk through the West End. However, some wished for a faster pace and more in-depth historical information.
Customers loved Cathy, the tour guide, because she was very friendly and full of knowledge.
Many people said it was a very nice walk through a calm part of town.
Several reviews mentioned how interesting it was to learn about the town's history.
Some customers enjoyed the tour, saying it was a great way to see the West End.
One customer felt the tour was too slow and did not go far enough.
Someone wished there were more specific dates or historical details shared on the tour.
The Journey
Coast Guard Station Provincetown
Delve into the maritime history of Provincetown with a visit to Coast Guard Station Provincetown. Tracing its roots back to the 19th-century United States Life-Saving Service (USLSS), this station embodies a legacy of coastal protection and heroic rescues. Explore exhibits and learn about the vital role this station has played in ensuring the safety of mariners along the Cape Cod coast.
Seth Nickerson House (Oldest House)
Step back in time at the Seth Nickerson House, Provincetown's oldest residence. Built around 1746–1750, this well-preserved Cape Cod-style home showcases the architectural ingenuity of early settlers. Marvel at its symmetrical facade, admire the rare beehive-shaped oven, and imagine life in 18th-century Provincetown within these historic walls. Notice how materials from shipwrecks were incorporated into the house's construction.
Captain Jack’s Wharf
Experience the bohemian spirit of Provincetown at Captain Jack’s Wharf, a historic fishing wharf transformed into a vibrant collection of colorful condominium cabins. Built in 1897, this iconic wharf offers a glimpse into Provincetown’s fishing past while providing a unique seaside getaway. Stroll along the pier, soak in the harbor views, and immerse yourself in the artistic atmosphere that defines this beloved landmark.
Long Point Lighthouse
Journey to the tip of Long Point, a remote peninsula, and discover the historic Long Point Lighthouse. Standing since 1826, this beacon has guided ships into Provincetown Harbor for centuries. Explore the grounds, admire the views of Cape Cod Bay, and learn about the lighthouse's vital role in maritime navigation. Although the keeper's house is privately leased, the history and solitude of the area make it a worthwhile visit. It continues to flash a green light every 4 seconds, visible for 8 nautical miles.
Long Point Floaters
Uncover the fascinating story of the Long Point Floaters, historic homes that were once part of a thriving fishing village on Long Point. When the village declined in the mid-19th century, resourceful residents floated their houses across Provincetown Harbor on scows. See if you can spot these relocated homes scattered throughout Provincetown, particularly in the West End, and marvel at the ingenuity and resilience of the early settlers.
Land’s End Inn
Indulge in a luxurious retreat at Land’s End Inn, a historic bed-and-breakfast perched atop Gull Hill. Built in 1904, this quirky summer bungalow offers panoramic views of Provincetown Harbor and Cape Cod Bay. Experience the inn's meticulously preserved charm, reflecting Provincetown’s artistic and maritime heritage. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and unparalleled tranquility in this iconic West End destination.
The Red Inn
Savor exquisite dining and waterfront views at The Red Inn, a historic inn and restaurant located directly on Provincetown Harbor. Dating back to 1805, this landmark building blends classic Cape Cod charm with modern luxury. Experience the inn's rich history, indulge in culinary delights, and soak in the stunning waterfront ambiance that makes The Red Inn a quintessential Provincetown destination.
Provincetown Inn
Discover the historic Provincetown Inn, a beachfront hotel with roots dating back to the early 1920s. Located on land where the Pilgrims reportedly first landed in 1620, the inn is steeped in historical significance. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, beachfront access, and immerse yourself in Provincetown’s captivating past. The Inn commemorates the pilgrim landing with full-color murals depicting Provincetown's past.
Pilgrims’ First Landing Park
Pay homage to the Pilgrims’ arrival at Pilgrims’ First Landing Park, a small memorial park marking their initial landing on November 11, 1620. Reflect on this pivotal moment in American history and admire the plaque installed by the Research Club of Provincetown, commemorating the Pilgrims' first steps on American soil. This tranquil park offers a poignant reminder of Provincetown’s significant role in the founding of the nation.
Know Before You Go
The Provincetown West End History Tour includes all admission fees. It does not include transportation back to the town center after the tour. Meet your guide at the starting point in Provincetown's West End. The tour covers about half a mile on foot.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes since you'll be walking for about 90 minutes. Bring a water bottle, especially on warm days. A few reviews mentioned that a pedi-cab is a fun way to get back to the center of town after the tour.
5
0
Boston
Uncover Franco-American History: A Guided Freedom Trail Journey
French-American Guided Tour of the Freedom Trail explores the intertwined histories of France and America led by a professional historian. This walking tour highlights pivotal connections, from Quebec's influence to Lafayette's legacy, skill level: Medium. Discover shared struggles for freedom, perfect for adults and children seeking historical insights.
From
$ 85
5
240
Boston
Freedom Trail Tour: See ALL Sites, Including USS Constitution!
Entire Freedom Trail Walking Tour: Explore Boston's rich history from start to finish! This tour takes you on a journey through time, focusing on the brave people and key events that transformed peaceful settlers into revolutionaries ready to fight for freedom from Great Britain. Unlike other tours that skip important sites, this experience ensures you see it all, including Bunker Hill and the USS Constitution. What to Expect: Participants will walk the entire Freedom Trail, visiting 16 historical landmarks that tell the story of the American Revolution. The adventure begins at the Massachusetts State House, and continues to the Park Street Church and Granary Burying Ground. The tour also makes stops at King's Chapel, the Boston Latin School Site & Benjamin Franklin Statue, the Old South Meeting House, and the Old State House. Guests will also visit Faneuil Hall, the Blackstone Block, the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, Copp's Hill Burying Ground, Bunker Hill Monument (Breed's Hill), and the USS Constitution. What’s Included: The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, who does not accept or expect gratuities, to lead you on this four-hour narrated walking tour of the entire Freedom Trail. What’s Excluded: Admission to interiors of the historical sites are not included, giving guests the flexibility to explore the sites they are most interested in.
From
$ 67
4
60
Boston
Unearth Boston's Dark Past: A Spine-Tingling Ghost Adventure!
Boston Ghosts by US Ghost Adventures offers a thrilling walking tour through historic Boston, revealing chilling tales of hauntings and historical events. Explore the city's most haunted sites, guided by expert storytellers. Discover documented hauntings and intensely researched stories on this one-mile eerie adventure. Not suitable for children.
From
$ 26
5
120
Salem
Salem's Haunted Holiday Stroll: Uncover Ghostly Christmas Pasts
Ghosts of Christmas Past: a Haunted Holiday Stroll unveils Salem's eerie holiday history. Explore Puritan Christmas bans to Victorian ghost stories. Discover Yule, Krampus, and winter solstice traditions with a licensed guide, snacks included. An unforgettable, chilling experience blending history and holiday hauntings in Salem.
From
$ 35