Provincetown Live Cam

Cape Cod's peaceful, playful beach town




Hosted by:
  • Harbor Hotel Provincetown
  • 698 Commercial St - Provincetown
  • Massachusetts 02657 - United States
  • 508-487-1711
  • https://www.harborhotelptown.com/

Provincetown History

Provincetown is a town located at the northern tip of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, United States. The area is rich in history and culture, with a diverse community of artists, fishermen, and tourists.

The history of Provincetown dates back to the 1600s when the area was first settled by the Pilgrims. It was originally used as a fishing and whaling port, and the town's economy was heavily reliant on these industries for many years. During the 19th century, the town became a popular destination for artists and writers, including Tennessee Williams and Norman Mailer, who were drawn to the area's natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene.

Provincetown is also significant in LGBTQ history, as it is considered to be the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement. In 1915, a group of artists and writers founded the Provincetown Players, a theater group that was open to all races and sexual orientations. In 1916, one of their plays, "The Widow's Mite," was shut down by the police for its depiction of a lesbian relationship. This incident sparked a series of protests and rallies, and the following year, the town held its first "Festival of the Arts," which became a celebration of LGBTQ culture and identity.

Today, Provincetown is known for its thriving arts scene, its beautiful beaches, and its vibrant LGBTQ community. Visitors can explore the town's many art galleries and museums, take part in the annual Carnival celebration, and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including whale watching, hiking, and cycling. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of Cape Cod, Provincetown is a fascinating and unique destination that's well worth a visit.

Provincetown Top Tourist Attractions

Provincetown, Massachusetts is a popular destination for tourists, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Provincetown:

  • Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum: This iconic 252-foot granite tower commemorates the landing of the Mayflower Pilgrims in Provincetown in 1620. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of the town and surrounding area. The Provincetown Museum is located at the base of the monument and features exhibits on local history and culture.
  • Commercial Street: Provincetown's main street is a bustling hub of activity, lined with art galleries, shops, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place to stroll, people-watch, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
  • Race Point Beach: This beautiful, sandy beach is located within the Cape Cod National Seashore and offers swimming, sunbathing, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Herring Cove Beach: Another popular beach within the Cape Cod National Seashore, Herring Cove Beach is known for its calm waters and picturesque dunes. It's a great place to swim, kayak, or take a sunset walk.
  • Provincetown Art Association and Museum: This museum features a collection of art from local and national artists, as well as exhibits on Provincetown's rich artistic history. It's a great place to learn about the town's cultural heritage.
  • Province Lands Visitor Center: Located at the tip of Cape Cod, this visitor center offers information on the natural history of the area, as well as hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
  • Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch: This popular tour company offers whale-watching excursions from Provincetown Harbor, giving visitors a chance to see humpback, fin, and minke whales in their natural habitat.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Provincetown has to offer. Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or simply enjoying the seaside charm of this iconic New England town, there's something for everyone in Provincetown.

Provincetown Climate

Provincetown, Massachusetts has a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters. The town is located on the tip of Cape Cod, which means that it's surrounded by water on three sides, influencing the local climate.

During the summer months, temperatures in Provincetown typically range from the mid-60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (18-24°C), although it can occasionally reach into the 80s Fahrenheit (around 27°C). Summer is the busiest season in Provincetown, with many tourists flocking to the town to enjoy the beaches and cultural attractions.

In the fall, temperatures in Provincetown begin to cool, with average highs in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 18°C) in October and the mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 12°C) in November. Fall is a beautiful time to visit Provincetown, with colorful foliage and fewer crowds.

Winter in Provincetown is cold and blustery, with average highs in the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 2-5°C). Snow is common during the winter months, with an average snowfall of around 30 inches (76 cm) per year.

Spring in Provincetown is mild and pleasant, with average highs in the 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (around 12-16°C) in April and May. Spring is a great time to visit Provincetown to enjoy the blooming flowers and warmer weather. Overall, Provincetown's climate is influenced by its location on the coast and is characterized by mild temperatures and distinct seasonal changes.

Provincetown Geography

Provincetown is a town located at the tip of Cape Cod in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. It is situated on a narrow strip of land that extends into the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by water on three sides. The town covers an area of about 17.5 square miles (45.4 square kilometers) and has a population of around 3,000 people.

Provincetown is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, art galleries, and vibrant cultural scene. The town is also home to the Cape Cod National Seashore, which includes miles of pristine coastline and natural habitats for wildlife.

The landscape of Provincetown is characterized by sand dunes, salt marshes, and pine forests. The town is home to several conservation areas, including the Beech Forest, a 384-acre (155-hectare) woodland that is popular with hikers and birdwatchers.

Provincetown Harbor is a natural deep-water harbor that serves as a commercial fishing port and marina. The harbor is also home to the Pilgrim Monument, a 252-foot (77-meter) granite tower that commemorates the landing of the Pilgrims in Provincetown in 1620. The town is accessible by road via Route 6, which runs the length of Cape Cod, and by ferry from Boston and other nearby towns. The Provincetown Municipal Airport also offers limited commercial air service.

Cape Cod National Seashore

Cape Cod National Seashore is a protected area located on the eastern coast of Massachusetts in the United States. It was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961 and covers an area of approximately 43,607 acres. The seashore includes 40 miles of sandy beaches, marshes, ponds, and upland areas that support a diverse array of plant and animal life.

The Cape Cod National Seashore offers visitors a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, and biking. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the many historic sites and cultural landmarks within the park, such as the Highland Light, the Province Lands Visitor Center, and the Salt Pond Visitor Center.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, the Cape Cod National Seashore plays an important role in conservation efforts. The park's diverse habitats provide critical nesting areas for endangered species such as the piping plover and the roseate tern. The seashore also serves as an important stopover for migratory birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.

Overall, the Cape Cod National Seashore is a unique and beautiful destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this iconic region of the United States.