At the tip of Cape Cod, within the Cape Cod National Seashore lies one of the most unique towns in New England. Few other places have a past or present as exciting and interesting as Provincetown. Founded in 1727, just 107 years after the Pilgrims first anchored there and spent 36 days before leaving for Plymouth.

It is the beauty of the geography and the diverse culture that makes Provincetown special. The town is bordered by vast stretches of dunes, beaches and open sea. The waters around the tip of Cape Cod are teeming with life, and it is the fisherman that these waters brought that eventually settled in Provincetown and made it their home. Many of the fishermen were Portuguese; who had fished the area for centuries, before deciding to stay. The Portuguese culture permeates the town today. In addition, the town has become known as summer vacationing resort for the gay community. Provincetown has become an intertwined melting pot of old and new, traditional and contemporary.

At the turn of the century, the town became a haven for artists during the summer months. Attracted by the warm weather, and beautiful seascapes and sunsets, many of the world's renowned contemporary masters visited. Today the streets are lined with studios of every variety. Great shopping and people watching are to be had, as Commercial Street, the town's central drive and walkway, is thronged with shoppers of all ages exploring the dozens of small, original shops.

Looking to get away from the pleasant bustle of the town? You can rent a bike and explore the bike trails that cross over the National Seashore, one of the jewels of the Cape, which consist of over 30 miles of pristine beaches. Horseback riding is also available, as are airplane rides, swimming, and hiking.

For history buffs, there are a few museums, including the Whydah Pirate Ship Museum on MacMillan Wharf, or the Pilgrim Monument Museum and tower. No matter where you interests are, you will enjoy this old and new, New England seaside village.