Top 10 Activities for February Vacation

Posted on February 15, 2012 by Michelle

at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa

Plus….if you can pull yourself away, a few things close-by too!

10. Stuffed Animal Workshop – Kids can bring their very own cuddly pal to life! They get to select the animal, stuff it and dress it (additional charge). Available 2/18 – 2/25, times vary.

9. The Fun Zone – A giant game room, full of fun and excitement! A small moon walk for children and tons of video games and even a prize counter! (additional charges for video games). Available 2/18 – 2/25, 9am – 11pm.

8. Crafts & Face Painting – Get creative and make a something special to bring home. 2/18 – 2/25, 1pm-3pm

7. Magic Dave Dinner Theater – His show is full of high energy, witty comedy and mind-blowing miracles! We are offering a special children’s dinner theater rate of $25 (adults $59.99 each). Or, opt to come for just the show — $15 for children, $25 for adults. 2/17 at 7:30pm

6. Peek-a-Zoo Show – Meet some her exotic animals friends from the ZooQuarium. A 45-minute interactive presentation. 2/19, 2/21 and 2/23, 6pm-6:45pm

5. Nightly Bonfires – Grab your sticks and marshmallows at the H ‘n K and join us in the beach sand area for a cozy (weather permitting). 7:30pm-10pm

4. Marcus the Magician and the Amazing Richard – A laugh-packed show full of amazing magic, wonderful audience interaction, visual humor, and magical surprises. 2/20, 2/22 and 2/24 at 7pm

3. The Secret World of Bubbles – From encasing a dinosaur and then a kid in a bubble to crafting a glistening fog-filled Eiffel Tower, this show will have kids and adults alike in awe! 2/21 at 7pm

2. Daily/Nightly Movies – slip into your jammies and join us for a family-friendly movie. 2pm, 7pm and 8:30pm

1. Mikey Maestro’s Dance Party – entertaining kids and kids at heart with his family-friendly dance party. 2/19 and 2/23, 7pm-9:30pm

Top 5 Resort Amenities for Families

5. Rainbow Falls Heated Outdoor Pool – our gorgeous new outdoor pool features waterfall, Jacuzzi and nightly light show…the weather may be cold, but the pool is HEATED!

4. Hearth ‘n Kettle – regroup with the family at our H ‘n K – featuring wholesome food, thoughtfully prepared…it’s H ‘n K Approved! Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily from 7am

3. Dinner Theater –
2/18 – Psychic Mindblowing Comedy Show with Jon Stetson – Jon’s gifts as mentalist, mindreader and humorist will mesmerize you!

2/25 – Comedy on the Road – featuring hilarious stand-up comedians to keep you laughing all night long!

2. Beach Plum Spa – relax your mind, body and soul in our full-service spa; pampering Women, Men and Children! Bring in your little one for a Strawberry Ice Cream Manicure, Chocolate Milkshake Pedicure and more!

and the #1 thing to do at the Cape Codder, of course the…

1. Indoor Wave Pool – 2-foot waves, 80- and 50-foot water slides (great for racing!), waterfalls, water umbrella, oversized adult Jacuzzi, saunas….need we say more?

And, if you can pull yourself away from ALL there is to do right at the resort, there’s even more going on close by such as:

Cape Cod Children’s Museum in Mashpee is featuring a Celestial Cosmic Quest all week long
The Cape Cod Maritime Museum in Hyannis is offer some special kid’s activities including Pirate Navigation Kit, Racing Yacht Extravaganza, Fishing Fun, Scrimshaw and Shell Sailor’s Valentines and more.
Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary in Cummaquid has some exciting interactive nature events such as the Which Nest is Best? and What Makes a Snake?

So, what are you waiting for? Get to the Cape Codder Resort & Spa today and see how many of the Tops you can fit in! And, if you find anything else (we’re sure there’s more!) – be sure to like us on Facebook and post it so everyone can see!

Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Codder Resort, Family Fun, family movies, Indoor Activities, science demonstrations, Winter getaway | Tagged Beach Plum Spa, Cape Cod, Cape Cod Travel, Cape Cod Travel Tips, Cape Codder, Cape Codder Resort, Family Fun, Family Vacation Blog, February Vacation, Heated Outdoor Pool, Indoor Activities, Indoor Wave Pool, magicians, outdoor pool, Rainy Day Fun, The Secret World of Bubbles, Vacation Blog, Winter Vacation, ZooQuarium | Leave a comment

A Winter Weekend Getaway

Posted on January 25, 2012 by Joyce

by Ellie B.

Winter on Cape Cod can be notoriously hum-drum for us year-round residents – after the Holidays, it’s tempting to hunker down at home and lay low until the daylight hours once again outlast the average work day. That used to be just fine with me, but now that we have a baby in the family ‘veging’ out at home every night isn’t going to cut it.

This winter we gladly welcomed out-of-town family members anxious to share in Baby’s first birthday. It was going to be far too crowded in our little ‘salt box’ house, so naturally we offered to reserve hotel rooms for our visitors. It would have been easy to book a local hotel/motel near our home in Falmouth, but the Cape Codder Resort & Spa in Hyannis seemed like an ideal option.

As Cape residents, we are certainly familiar with the Cape Codder – we attended a wedding there; have been to a few business luncheons and dinner events in the Ballroom; I’ve been to the Beach Plum Spa a few times; most recently I went with some girlfriends to see Jon Stetson there, and brought the baby to see Santa and the Enchanted Village, but we had never stayed overnight. So we decided to reserve a room for ourselves as well as our family members and make a little get-away out of it!

While checking online for room rates, we noticed that there happened to be a “Not-So-Polar Plunge” package…this first-time event was a fundraiser for Housing Assistance Corporation on Cape Cod and involved a plunge into the Cape Codder’s new heated outdoor pool. Bonus!

We were very impressed with the cleanliness and quality of every part of our stay. The rooms are super spacious with plenty of room for a port-a-crib, and the in-room refrigerator was so convenient for traveling with a little one. The staff in the Hearth & Kettle were extremely accommodating of our 1 year-old and even sang their own rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ to him and my Aunt at dinner on Saturday – complete with a cupcake! After dinner, we stopped in the Grand Cru for a few minutes to check out the live band – the place was hoppin’! Turns out lots of other Cape Codders already know about this great place and all it has to offer in the winter months.

On Sunday morning, we went down to the outdoor pool for the Not-So-Polar Plunge. What a fun event! A few of the plungers were even dressed up in silly costumes. The pool, which is actually salt water, was about 85 degrees and felt fantastic – I didn’t want to get out! As if that isn’t awesome enough, there is also a hot tub…ahhhh! It felt great to take a dip outside in January and to know we were helping support such a great local organization.

The Not=so Polar Plunge

All in all, it really did feel like we had a weekend get-away even though we only live a couple of towns away. Next year we’re thinking of inviting more friends and family and having Baby’s 2^nd birthday party at the Cape Codder Resort! As for the rest of this winter, we’ll be sure to catch a Dinner Theater show (World Gone Crazy Comedy Band!) and maybe even stay another night for just the two of us.

Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Cod Travel Tips, Cape Codder Resort, Indoor Activities, Outdoor Activities, Winter getaway | Tagged Cape Cod, Cape Cod Travel, Cape Codder, Cape Codder Resort, Family Beaches, Family Fun, Family Vacation Blog, Hyannis, Indoor Activities, Indoor Wave Pool, Vacation Blog | Leave a comment

It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Posted on December 6, 2011 by Joyce

The holiday season is both a time of beauty and of bustling activity here on Cape Cod. Anyone who thinks the Cape is sleepy this time of year should hop into their car and come experience the magic! The Cape has wrapped herself in millions of lights, the sounds of festively costumed Carolers waft in the air over multiple locations and old-fashioned strolls are a common sight on almost every town’s main street. In fact there are so many things to do and see your family may have to make some difficult choices! Here are just a few of the upcoming events:

LIGHTS, LIGHTS and MORE LIGHTS!

Gardens Aglow
Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich
Through December 19, 5-9pm
Tis the season to be jolly! Don’t miss Heritage Museums & Gardens annual celebration of lights that illuminates the grounds and makes the buildings sparkle with festive lights. Stroll the grounds, toast marshmallows at Magnolia Cafe, take a spin on the carousel, and enjoy holiday music and performances. Old St. Nick will also be visiting for pictures in a Ford Model T. For more info: www.heritagemuseumsandgardens.org

10^th Annual Cape Cod Enchanted Village
Cape Codder Resort & Spa, Hyannis
Through January 2, 2012
Each night at dusk the courtyard at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa is illuminated by the glow of more than 100,000 lights. Topiary animals and snowmen greet visitors as they make their way past Santa’s Reindeer stall to Santa’s Village– all reminiscent of an old fashioned Enchanted Village. Musical Christmas trees keep the beat as children toast marshmallows by the bonfire. On Friday, Saturdays and Sunday evenings strolling carolers walk among the visitors, spreading holiday spirit through song while Santa takes some time out of his busy schedule to hear children’s holiday wishes. Guests to the Enchanted Village are encouraged to bring NEW, unwrapped gifts or Gift Cards to place under the tree. All donations will be given to Independence House in Hyannis.
For more info: http://www.capecodderresort.com/enchanted-village.php

Festival of Lights (a little off-Cape but worth the trip!)
Edaville Railroad, Carver
Dec. 1st-4th, 7th-11^th; Dec.14th-January 1st
(Closed Christmas Day) Weekdays 4pm-9pm; Weekends 2pm-9pm
During the Christmas season, Edaville is transformed into a winter wonderland. Passengers relax comfortably in warm and dry coaches while riding through a spectacular holiday setting featuring an explosion of lights. Kids of all ages can enjoy an array of vintage amusement rides and a visit with Santa in one of their indoor play areas.
For more info: www.Edaville.com

HOLIDAY THEATER & DANCE

Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol
The Academy of Performing Arts, Orleans
November 18 – December 11; Thurs.-Sat. 8pm • Sunday 2pm
December 21 & 22 8pm
Box Office: 508-255-1963
For more info: www.apacape.org

Nutcracker Gala 2011
Barnstable High School Performing Arts Center, Hyannis
December 10 & 11 at 2pm
The Atlantic Coast Academy of Dance performs this holiday classic
Box Office: 508-362-1411
For more info: www.nutcrackergala.org

Madeline’s Christmas, The Musical
Harwich Junior Theater, Harwich
December 2-31 (no performance Dec. 24 or 25).
Fridays 7:30 pm; Saturdays & Sundays 2pm
Based on the popular children’s book by Ludwig Bemelmans.
Box Office: 508-432-2002
For more info: www.hjtcapecod.org

A Winter’s Solstice Celebration
Cotuit Center For The Arts
December 1-18, Thursday-Saturday 7pm; Sunday 1pm.
Short medieval plays, madrigals, carols and dance set the tone for this unique family-oriented theater production. The audience is encouraged to bring their own dinner. The cast will supply mulled cider and sweets.
Box Office: 508-428-0669
www.ArtOnTheCape.org

PARADES & More

Falmouth Christmas Parade
Beginning at Falmouth Mall and following to Route 28 and then Main Street.
Sunday, December 10, Noon
Considered by some to be the largest holiday parade in southeastern New England drawing between 10,000 and 20,000 people per year. What you’ll see: bands, clowns, live animals, floats and people in costume. The theme this year celebrates the town’s 325^th anniversary.
Info: 508-548-8500
www.falmouthchamber.com

First Night Chatham
Now in its 20^th year, this is one of the best family-friendly events you can find. It’s loaded with teen and kids’ activities, a noise parade (this year led by American Idol finalist Siobhan Magnus), concerts and spectacular fireworks!
For full list of activities, visit www.firstnightchatham.com

What a way to end 2011 and to welcome 2012!

Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Codder Resort, family concerts, Family Fun, Holiday, kids theater, Outdoor Activities | Tagged Cape Cod, Cape Cod Travel, Cape Codder, Family Fun, Family Vacation Blog, Heritage Museum, Holiday events, Holiday events cape cod, Main Street Hyannis | Leave a comment

Fun in Fall for the Whole Family

Posted on October 12, 2011 by Michelle

A walk on the beach is enjoyable no matter the season; but let’s face it, if they can’t go swimming, the kids would usually prefer to be somewhere else! Why not explore the awe-inspiring Autumn on Cape Cod…full of apples, pumpkins, ghosts and things that go bump in the night!

Hawk’s Wing Farm
41 Hawks Wing Road, Yarmouthport
You and your family will enjoy apple picking, pumpkin picking, wagon rides, caramel apples, face painting and fun in the barnyard and playground. The aroma of cinnamon and hot apple cider wafting from the kitchen and the cool crisp fall air only start to describe this all-organic farm in the fall. Dwarf apple tree tops are nearly always within an arms reach, with a majority of the fruit within a child’s grasp. A variety of organic selections are available to take home from the farm stand.

October is perfect for … APPLES!! Apple cider, apple pies, arugula, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, celery, collards, escarole, kale, leeks, lettuce, mustard greens, onions, parsley, potatoes, radicchio, radishes, chard, turnips, winter squashes, butternut squash..

Visit Hawk’s Wing Farm for more information and directions.

Cob Webb Farm
1525 Osterville Road, West Barnstable
A family-owned farm filled with old-fashioned charm. Enjoy…

PUMPKIN PICKING – Roam around the pumpkin field and find a small, or large, or extra large, round or tall but definitely orange, “just right for you” pumpkin!
HAY RIDES – Tour the grounds of this beautiful little farm while munching on some treats and looking for woodland creatures. The ride will take you around the pumpkin patch, through the woods, around a pond and back to the Farm Store.
HAY HOUSE – Sheltered under a round roof but still open to the fresh fall air, it’s a great place to jump & roll around in the hay while learning a bit about what creatures live on a farm!
FARM STORE – Bring home the freshest and finest fruits and vegetables of the season; try some delicious jellies and jams while picking up corn stalks, gourds and mums to decorate your home for the fall.

Visit Cob Webb Farm for more details and directions.

A.D. Makepeace Cranberry Tour
158 Tihonet Road, Wareham
The Makepeace business has been growing cranberries since the 1800s. Abel D. Makepeace established hundreds of acres of bog across southeastern Massachusetts and became known as “The Cranberry King.” Today, the company farms approximately 1,750 acres of bog in the towns of Carver, Middleborough, Plymouth, Rochester and Wareham. A.D. Makepeace is the largest grower-owner of Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc., and the largest cranberry grower in the world. With more than 400 growers producing nearly 25 percent of the nation’s cranberry supply, cranberries are the number one food crop in Massachusetts, having a crop value of $50 million.

Makepeace blends state-of-the-art technology with centuries-old growing techniques. Take some time to explore, tour and learn about this fascinating industry. Individual tours are available, advance reservations are required

Visit A. D. Makepeace for more information and reservations, or call (508) 295-1000.

Barnstable Village’s Haunted & History Walking Tour
Barnstable Village
Are you looking for something out of the ordinary to fill your evening? Discover this unique walking tour of the historic and haunted “Old Kings Highway” in Barnstable Village. You will hear stories of the conflict between the Loyalists and the American Whigs (Patriots) and how England had a stronghold on this small quaint town. There are over ten stops on the tour and eight have ghost stories. Visit Cobb’s Hill Cemetery where many strange and unusual things have taken place, and the Barnstable Tavern & Restaurant where a mischievous specter lurks in the dining room. The tour finale ends with the “Old Jail” built in the 1690’s by order of Massachusetts Bay Colony Courts, which is actively haunted.

ADVISORY: we have not personally participated in this tour. Please use discretion with children. You may wish to call the tour company to inquire about age appropriateness – (508) 771-2725.

Visit Barnstable Village’s Haunted & History Walking Tour for more information and to view other tours.

Cape Cod Central Railroad
252 Main Street, Hyannis
All Aboard For Fun on the Narrated Scenic Train! Climb aboard one of the Cape Cod Central’s climate-controlled passenger cars and feel the thrill as the whistle blows and your fun-filled adventure begins. The rhythm of the train and the spirit of the crew will whisk you away on an exhilarating two-hour journey by rail. You’ll pass beautiful cranberry bogs, natural woodlands, lush marshes and more as you make your way between Hyannis and the Cape Cod Canal.

Advance reservations suggested. (508) 771-3800, or toll free at (888) 797-RAIL.

Visit Cape Cod Central Railroad for more information, departure times and reservations.

Haunted Hotel Package
At Cape Codder Resort & Spa
This isn’t a trick – it’s a true TREAT all the way! The festivities include an all-new Ghostly Halloween Musical Light Show in the courtyard, trick-or-treating in the safety of the hotel, a Halloween Dance party with prizes and giveaways, a Halloween movie (under the stars if weather permits) and storytelling around the bonfire, plus much more! The evenings activities include:

Early Check In
Face Painting from 3 – 6 with the fun factory
Trick or Treating in the hotel from 4 – 6
Ghoulish Ballooning
Halloween Dance Party with best costume awards
Halloween movie on the deck
Bonfire Story Telling

Visit Cape Codder’s Haunted Hotel page for more information and reservations.

Posted in Cape Cod, Fall Activities, Family Fun, Indoor Activities, Outdoor Activities | Tagged apple orchard, apple picking cape cod, Cape Cod Travel, Cape Cod Travel Tips, cranberry bog, Fall on cape cod, Family Fun, Family Vacation Blog, fun fall activities, halloween on cape cod, hay rides, Heritage Museum, historic tour, Indoor Activities, pumpkin picking cape cod, Vacation Blog, wagon rides, What to do on cape cod | 1 Comment

Looking for a way to bond with your daughter?

Posted on September 28, 2011 by Luisa

Try a Mother/Daughter Spa Getaway

They grow up so quickly, don’t they? I just sent my daughter Alex off to her freshman year at Boston College and it seems like only yesterday it was her first day of kindergarten!

During the past few months leading up to Alex’s college departure from our New Jersey home, she and I – as well as her godmother Kathy with whom she’s very close – made a point to make time for a few activities that nurtured bonding. That way when she left we had a good fuzzy feeling regarding our relationship.

For example, Kathy took Alex out the week prior to her college departgure for pedicures, manicures and dinner. Years ago Kathy started this tradition as Alex’s brithday present. Since then, these spa days have grown into a very special event that they’ve enjoyed many times a year, be it for Alex’s formal dances or just an an excurse for them to bond in a mother/daughter fashion, which they did each time.

Since Catania Hospitality has built its resort, spa and restaurant business on the foundation of strong family values, they specifically offer mother/daughter spa treatments at their three resorts — Cape Codder Resort & Spa; Dan’l Webster Inn & Spa; John Carver Inn & Spa – as a way to foster familial bonding. These mother/daughter spa days can be an integral part an off-season weekend getaway to the Cape Codder, Dan’l Webster or John Carver Inn.

Depending on your child’s or teen’s age, there are a wide variety of spa treatments to choose from at all three Beach Plum Spas. Some of the most popular parent/child treatments are massages, facials, manicures and pedicures.

The Beach Plum Spas offer Kids’ Corner spa treatments for children ages four to 13 years old. While you may have heard of couples’ massages before, you might not have heard of parent and child massages. The Beach Plum Spa offers them, including those which focus only on the back, neck and shoulder area. (Note that all spa treatments require children under 18 years old to have a parent/adult guardian in the room with them during the treatment.)

With creative names like “Strawberry Ice Cream” manicure and “Chocolate Milkshake” pedicure, the Beach Plum Spa Kids’ Corner appeals to children on all levels. For example, the Strawberry Ice Cream manicure starts with strawberry exfoliation and strawberry lotion and ends with a sweet treat…a lollipop! The Chocolate Milkshake pedicure is for chocoholics: while sipping hot chocolate, the youth’s feet are soaked in a chocolate milkshake bath, exfoliated with a chocolate scrub, and finished off with chocolate mousse lotion.

Since teens’ needs are different than adults and kids’, the Beach Plum Spa also offers acne facials. These treatments are for teenagers only and use a Beach Plum Spa skin care product designed to reduce inflammation.

End note:

Although my daughter’s pre-college manicure and pedicure with Kathy has certainly been chipped away due to two weeks of hitting the college books, one thing still remains: her positive thoughts of the quality time she spent with her godmother during their many spa days over the years.

For more details on Mother/Daughter and additional Spa Packages:

Posted in Beach Plum Spa, Cape Cod, Girls Getaway, kids spa treatments | Tagged Beach Plum Spa, cape cod spa, family bonding, Family Fun, family memories, Family Vacation Blog, girls getaway, girls spa trip, manicure, mother daughter bonding, pedicure, plymouth ma spa, spa getaway | 1 Comment

A Frenzy of Fall Festivals

Posted on September 21, 2011 by Michelle

Fall on Cape Cod is a simply glorious time of year, a true feast for the senses…from the smell of the crisp, salty ocean air to the sights of vibrant autumn colors, Cape Cod has it all, but without the crowds! To celebrate the season, the Cape comes alive in a frenzy of Fall Festivals. Escape and discover true hometown celebrations bursting with Art, Music, Food, Fun and much more!

Harwich Cranberry Arts & Music Festival
September 17 & 18
Yes, it has already past this year, but it’s definitely worth making a note of for next year! The Harwich Cranberry Festival has earned a name for itself over the past three decades as one of the top festivals of its kind in America. Highlights include an enormous art and craft sale (and we mean enormous!) and live musical entertainment, a wide selection of food and cuisine and a spectacular fireworks display. Mom and Dad will love the arts and crafts tents, as well as the fantastic Trade and Home Show. The kids will find plenty of fun, and teenagers will no doubt love the sounds of some of the top musical bands and artists in the greater Cape Cod area.

Visit www.harwichcranberryfestival.org for more information.

42nd Annual Bourne Scallop Fest
September 23-25
An exciting weekend paying homage to the native, tasty Scallop. Yearly, over three tons of succulent Scallops are deep fried and served to over 55,000 visitors. But of course, there’s much more to the Bourne Scallop Fest! Featuring a juried craft show, food court tent with everything from herb roasted chicken dinners and lobster rolls to a raw bar and burgers, Midway of rides and games and non-stop entertainment.

A special performance this year will be held on Saturday, September 24. Cape Cod’s own Siobhan Magnus will be performing solo – hopefully with a sneak peak at songs from her first solo album, ‘Beatrice Dream’ which is expected to be released this fall.

Visit www.bournescallopfest.com for complete schedules and listings.

Cape Cod Cranberry Day at Green Briar
October 1
Green Briar celebrates the native berry with cooking demonstrations in the 1903 Jam Kitchen, special exhibits on the cranberry industry on Cape Cod and homemade baked cranberry goods, clam chowder and chili.

Visit www.thorntonburgess.org/SpecialEvents.htm for directions and information.

Harvest Festival at Barnstable County Fairgrounds
October 1 & 2
The festival will include live entertainment by local bands, a marketplace of local farmers and crafters, pony rides, hayrides and much more. Again this year, in the spirit of Oktoberfest, the Harvest Festival will feature a traditional wine and beer garden. Parents and kids can spend quality time together, enjoying kiddie rides, a haunted house, pumpkin painting and the 4-H horse drill team. There will be food vendors, gardening tips and soil testing as well. This year’s theme is “The Holidays Start Here” and will feature exhibitors selling wares and services that will make ideal gifts for year-end celebrations.

Visit www.barnstablecountyfair.org/harvestfest for more information.

25th Annual Oktoberfest
October 8
The 25th Annual Oktoberfest kicks off at the Mashpee Commons’ Village Green with a 10K Road Race and Fun Run, sponsored by New Balance Mashpee. The celebration continues throughout the day with authentic German music by The Vagabonds, Magic Show, K-9 Dog Show, Fiddlers, Irish Step Dancers and exhibits by local crafters and restaurants.

Visit www.MashpeeCommons.com for more information

33rd Annual Yarmouth Seaside Festival
October 8 – 10
The Yarmouth Seaside Festival has grown into a gala event which boasts a craft fair of more than 125 crafters from all over the country, a giant parade, continual musical entertainment, high-quality children’s events, kayak and canoe race, 5K road race, greased pole contests, pie-eating contestsand fireworks display, to name just a few. Bringing together townspeople and tourists alike, this event captures a warm, fun-loving, and still FREE event for all to take part in and enjoy. A huge selection of varying crafts, and a dazzling fireworks display are what truly light up the Yarmouth Seaside Festival, but there’s plenty more to give it substance. A parade, New England cuisine, music, children’s rides, and various competitions help keep the party going all weekend long. Participate in or watch kayak and road races, and be sure to bring along a camera for the sand sculpture contest. The fantastic parade will include antique cars, marching bands, and special surprises for the children. The event itself is free, although you’ll want to bring along some money to enjoy the huge selection of food and other activities that may require a fee.

Visit www.yarmouthseasidefestival.com for more information.

Wellfleet OysterFest – family fun
October 15 – 16
A bit of a drive, but certainly worth it! This two-day street party celebrates the town’s famous oysters, clams and shellfishing traditions and brings together locals and visitors for a weekend full of hometown flavor and big time fun. The town center becomes a walking district that offers something for everyone: local cuisine, arts and crafts, children’s activities, educational exhibits, live music and the Oyster Shuck-Off competition. Satellite events away from the crowds, and many with the beautiful harbor as a backdrop, showcase all that the village has to offer: beachcombing and bird walks, a 5K road race and children’s fun run, cooking demonstrations, tasting seminars, book talks, and oyster grant tours. Kids will enjoy the moon bounce, pumpkin decorating, face painting, oyster jewelry making, a steel drum workshop, sing-a-longs and more.

Visit www.wellfleetoysterfest.org for more information.

Cape Cod Oyster Festival, Hyannis – more of an adult festival
October 15 – 16
Every Fall, Cape Cod showcases their world famous oysters to the many tourists that come to take part in the Annual Cape Cod Oyster Festival. Relax by the Hyannis Harbor, sampling the very finest of Cape Cod oysters and wine from across the world. All oyster lovers, and those simply needing a break, should make sure to get to Cape Cod this Fall. One price buys you admission to the event, which includes wine, food, and of course, oyster samples. This first-class event benefits the United Way, making it the ideal way to help others while enjoying one of Cape Cod’s most renowned commodities.

Fall for the Arts
Entire Month of October
Follow the Arts Trail throughout the month of October during the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod’s 4th Annual Fall for the Arts Festival, with 125+ special events awaiting you, including live performances by local musicians, special exhibits, arts activities for kids, readings and lectures, guided art and heritage walks, plein air painters and more.

Visit www.artsfoundation.org/fall-for-the-arts for the full line-up of Fall for the Arts events!

Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Cod Travel Tips, Cape Codder Resort, family concerts, Family Fun, family movies, kids art instruction, kids theater, Outdoor Activities, science demonstrations | Tagged Arts Foundation, Barnstable County Fairgrounds, Bourne Festivals, Bourne Scallop Festival, Cape Cod, Cape Cod Cranberries, cape cod festivals, Cape Cod Oyster Festival, Cape Cod Travel, Cape Cod Travel Tips, Cape Codder Resort, Fall Festivals, Fall for the Arts, Family Fun, Family Vacation Blog, Harvest Festival, Harwich, Harwich Cranberry Festival, Harwich Festivals, Hyannis, Hyannis Oyster Festival, Mashpee Commons, Oktoberfest, Vacation Blog, Wellfleet, Wellfleet Festival, Wellfleet Oyster Festival, Yarmouth, Yarmouth Festivals, Yarmouth Seaside Festival | Leave a comment

A Road Less Travelled

Posted on August 31, 2011 by Michelle

If you are interested in seeing what Cape Cod looked like before tourists found it, take some time to discover a road less travelled. Old King’s Highway, also known as scenic Route 6A, winds 34 miles though the villages of Bourne, Sandwich, West Barnstable, Barnstable, Yarmouthport, Dennis, Brewster, and Orleans along the northern side of Cape Cod. America’s largest designated historic corridor, Route 6A is recognized as one of the most scenic byways in America by Smithsonian Magazine.

With its origins as a Native American trail, Old King’s Highway later became the primary east-west cartway of early farmers and settlers of Cape Cod. In the 18th century, as the Cape’s maritime industry blossomed, sea captains homes, taverns (including our own Dan’l Webster Inn) and commerical businesses began to open along the popular passageway. Because many of the trees along 6A had been cut down to accommodate commerce, 19th century residents started to replant shade trees along the corridor which are now mature and add to the beauty of Old King’s Highway.

By the early 19th century, horse-drawn buggys were giving way to modern automobiles and tourism on Cape Cod was just starting to bustle, thus the dirt road needed to be paved. To this day, this captivating trail remains faithful to its historic origins. From green and blue marshes, scenic harbors and old general stores to local produce stands, stately sea captains homes and colorful artisan and antique shops, Old King’s Highway will transport you through centuries of Cape Cod history – a must-see for those wanting to explore the more traditional side of Cape Cod.

Get away for a few nights, stay with us at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa in Hyannis or Dan’l Webster Inn & Spa in Sandwich and take a drive along beautiful Route 6A….you may want to stop for a closer look at some of these nearby attractions:

Sandwich

Barnstable

Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Cod Travel Tips, Family Fun, Indoor Activities, Outdoor Activities | Tagged Barnstable Comedy Club, Barnstable Courthouse, Barnstable Village, Cape Cod Art Association, Dexter's Grist Mill, Green Briar Nature Center, Heritage Plantation, Hoxie House, Nye Homestead, Old Kings Highway, Olde Colonial Courthouse, Route 6A, Sandwich Glass Museum, Sandwich Village, Scenic Rides, Shawme Crowell State Forest, Sturgis Library, Thornton Burgess Museum, Trayser Memorial Museum, Wing Fort House | Leave a comment

Outdoor Adventures on the Lower and Outer Cape

Posted on August 22, 2011 by Jill

If your family enjoys hiking and exploring outdoors, here are a few suggestions for Cape Cod day trips I have enjoyed with my own family. Brewster is only 30 minutes from the Cape Codder Resort and Provincetown, an hour’s drive. Well worth the trip!

The Brewster Mill and Herring Run
Corner of Setucket and Stoney Brook Roads, Brewster
The Brewster Mill was built to grind corn using the force of the water running from Mill Pond to the bay. In the Spring the herring come up the Stony Brook to spawn in the pond.

The Brewster Mill is open to the public, selling freshly ground cornmeal, Saturdays June 25 – August 27 from 10-2. Multiple streams tumble over rocks and under bridges in a woodland setting, a cool respite from summer beaches.

Nickerson State Park
On Route 6A, Brewster near the Orleans border
You don’t have to be camping to enjoy the woodlands of Nickerson State Park in Brewster. Maps of the park can be obtained online or at the entrance. The entrance fee is free for hiking, biking, swimming and fishing although you will need a freshwater State license to fish. Freshwater State Fishing licenses can be purchased online, any tackle shop or at some Town Clerk offices (but not Brewster). Nickerson has two clean swimming ponds, Cliff and
Flax. There is also a very cool frog and fish pond east of Cliff Pond called Little Cliff. You can rent a canoe, kayak, paddle boat or sailboat from Jack’s Boat Rentals on Cliff Pond for a reasonable family budget fee. There are hiking trails around all the ponds making it possible to find a quiet private spot, and allow a friendly dog to take a swim.

Cape Cod Museum of Natural History Walking Trails
Route 6A, Brewster
The exhibitions at the Museum are known for saving a rainy day, but there are also two worthy trails leading from the free parking lots. The John Wing Trail starts next to the Museum building and heads for the tidal beach through level woodlands and the salt marsh. There are many plant identification plaques and a Stonehenge like Solar installation. The bay is fun for children at any tide: walking far out into the bay at low, checking out the shallow pool creature at mid tide and swimming at high tide.

The South Trail starts across the road (Route 6A) journeys through the salt marsh of Stony Brook, (the stream of the Herring Run and the Brewster Mill) and circles around upland through a Beech tree forest. Some of the path is steep and rocky providing just enough challenge to empower youngsters.

Fort Hill, Eastham
About a mile north of the Orleans rotary, you will see a sign for Fort Hill.
There are two parking lots, one at the base of Fort Hill and one on top. Fort Hill offers a spectacular view of Nauset Marsh, Nauset Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean.

The hiking path winds along the cliff, down to a short Maple Swamp walk and through open fields reminiscent of a time when Eastham was all farmland. Great for bird, bunny and chipmunk watching.

Marconi White Cedar Swamp Walk, Wellfleet
Heading north, from Route 6, turn right for Marconi Beach.
On the way to the beach will be a parking area for the mile and a half White Cedar Swamp Walk. A raised walkway meanders through the shade of the native wetlands of high bush blueberries, bear berries along with the white cedar. The entire family will enjoy this refreshing diverse ecosystem.

Snail Road Trail, Provincetown
For me, one of the more surprising and breathtaking adventures on the Cape is the Snail Road trail. This 1.5 mile hike is not for complainers. Keep your eye out for Snail Road
when approaching Provincetown from the south on Route 6. You will see the sign on the left, but on the right are three small parking spaces along the highway pointing into the
woods. If there are already cars parked you may park along Snail Road on the other side of the highway on the left. The trail starts out in woodlands and then breaks out into a vertical climb up a dune, flows through an expanse of hot sand hills descending into scrub pines and vernal pools (some with cranberries and frogs) passes by an occasional dune shack (almost all are occupied so keep a respectful distance) and culminates at the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you will seldom see people, almost always see seals, and tern nests that
have been fenced off by the National Seashore. As you walk along the shoreline far enough from the cages, the adult terns may go into their “broken wing” performance. An injured bird is rather disconcerting when viewed for the first time until you realize almost every adult tern along the beach is hobbling and dragging a wing unless you approach and then it miraculously flies away. Fun.

Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Cod Travel Tips, Cape Codder Resort, Family Fun, Outdoor Activities | Tagged Brewster Mill, Cape Cod, Cape Cod Hiking, Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, Fort Hill, herring run, marconi white cedar swamp, Nickerson State Park, Orleans, Outer Cape, snail road trail, walking trails | Leave a comment

TOTO, THIS DOESN’T LOOK LIKE ROUTE 132 ANYMORE!

Posted on August 16, 2011 by Luisa

A Fun Family Vacation at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa

If you follow the proverbial yellow brick road from the Cape Cod highway (Route 6) to Route 132 in Hyannis, MA, you’ll find the Emerald City – although you might not realize it until you walk through its front doors.

Set back from Route 132 is the Cape Codder Resort & Spa: the proverbial Emerald City. My family and I recently spent two days at the resort and when I walked into the lobby for the
first time, I truly felt like Dorothy when she opened the door to Oz in Technicolor!

The Cape Codder Resort & Spa’s lobby sets the tone for the entire resort. The Cape Cod classy décor, coupled with the lush flora in the patio and pool area, really wowed me. My son, niece and nephew were impressed by all the fun family activities this full-service resort offered for us to do by day and night.

Water Play

When I vacation on Cape Cod, I’m a huge fan of sampling the many family activities on the Cape. However, on this family vacation I was very content — as was my son Ethan (9 years old), nephew Seamus (11 years old) and niece Lindsay (13 years old) — to stay at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa and enjoy all its family-friendly facilities.

The Cape Codder sports a new heated outdoor pool (complete with mood lighting at night which changes in color and sets a romantic atmosphere. For those with rooms overlooking the pool, watching it change color and mood with your significant other from the balcony of your room — once your kids are in bed — is a lovely idea.

In the morning, the three kids and I really enjoyed the pool especially the section that has a small waterfall and water arches. The water arches were great spots for photo opportunities of the kids. The pool is heated
so that it is available three-seasons.

From the pool, we walked to the nearby deck area which featured outdoor dining from the Hearth n Kettle menu. (There is an indoor Hearth n Kettle restaurant at the resort too.) Between the children’s menu and the option of breakfast foods even at lunch time, my kids were more than content. I liked that we could put on beach cover-ups, have a great meal in a casual setting, and view the surrounding beautiful flower gardens at the same time.

Since all three youngsters have visited huge indoor water parks before, I was a bit concerned that they might be blasé about the Cape Codder’s 8,200-square-foot indoor water park. At lunch time, I forewarned them that the indoor water park was not massive. However, there was no need for that – the kids had an excellent time! Ethan, Lindsay, and Seamus really had a great time on the 80- and 50-foot water slides as well as in the wave pool. We also had fun taking photos under the water mushroom and in front of the murals
of picturesque Cape Cod beach scenes.

Family Friendly Activities By Day and Night

The Cape Codder has a roster of daily family activities throughout the summer, for Halloween, during the holidays and February and April school break weeks. The staff provides guests an activity sheet upon check in and activities are also posted on a board in the lobby.

Summer activities vary depending on the day of the week. Some of them include: a nightly outdoor family movie on a large screen; balloon animals made by two-time world champion balloon artists; volleyball games; face painting; making crafts; and Peek A Zoo.

Peek A Zoo is a unique show and is hosted by staff from the nearby ZooQuarium. They bring small animals from their collection and put on a show for children and parents at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa. Families get to pet and learn about each animal.

In addition, summer evenings also offer plenty of free family entertainment which is primarily held in the flower-bedecked courtyard, weather permitting. On Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights, a one-man band called Mikey Maestro plays dance party music to get the kids up and moving. On Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights, the band Hazy, Hot and Humid instead plays contemporary music, which is more akin to teens’ and parents’ tastes.

“We try to mix it up as much as possible to appeal to a wide range of families yet have adult type entertainment too,” said Ray Spirlet, General and Activities Manager at the Cape Codder.

The courtyard area also features a nightly fire pit where families can toast marshmallows or make s’mores. Families can bring their own ingredients or can purchase them from the Hearth n Kettle. We especially liked the evening atmosphere in the courtyard, which is lined with torches and is adjacent to the indoor wave pool, which is open until 10 p.m.

Explore on Your Own

For those with little ones, the resort has a small playground that includes climbing apparatus and a slide. Families with grade school children and teens enjoy the games arcade too.

During our stay, I had to attend a one hour meeting. I felt very comfortable allowing Lindsay, Seamus and Ethan to explore the non-water resort facilities together. During that time, they played in the very affordable arcade and had dessert/ice cream sundaes at the Hearth n Kettle Deck.

We live in a very suburban area of New Jersey which is only 10 miles from Manhattan, so my radar is always up when it comes to safety. The family atmosphere that pervades throughout the resort is what nurtured my comfort level to allow the kids to walk around the resort without me.

We are Fam-i-ly

Since the Cape Codder Resort & Spa is owned by the entrepreneurial Catania family, who own Catania Hospitality, a family feeling is very pervasive throughout the resort. I constantly saw Bill Catania, President of Catania Hospitality, walking around the resort with grounds keepers and other staff to make sure everything was in
tip-top condition.

Like Dorothy whose Oz friends became her kin during her adventure, the family atmosphere at the resort was felt even by Ethan, the youngest in our group. After our two-day stay at the Cape Codder, we spent a week with a large group of extended cousins, siblings and friends in a Mid Cape house. Even though Ethan was having a great time with his cousins and friends during that time, he still often asked when we could return to the Cape Codder to again enjoy the pools, entertainment, arcade and desserts.

That’s a great compliment since, as the son of a family travel writer, Ethan has followed many a proverbial yellow brick road to family vacation destinations!

Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Codder Resort, family concerts, Family Fun, Indoor Activities, kids art instruction, Outdoor Activities | Tagged bonfire, Cape Cod Travel Tips, Cape Codder Resort, courtyard, Family Fun, Indoor Wave Pool, kids activities, Live music, Mikey Maestro, outdoor pool | 3 Comments

Upcoming kids activities!

Posted on August 9, 2011 by Joyce

Cape Cod offers a a wide range of arts activities for adults and for kids! Below is a sampling of kid-friendly classes, events, performances and more happening during the month of August. And, if you are staying at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa, check out their in-house list of kids activities available to guests. A different craft project is offered each day, and kids love singing along with Mikey Maestro on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. http://www.capecodderresort.com/kids-activities.php

August 13 and every Saturday night, 5pm – 7pm
The Pizza Art Club
For kids ages 7 – 11. 2 hours of instruction, dinner & drinks.
Black Whale Gallery, 349 Main Street, Hyannis
For more information, fees and to register call 508 274-9031 or 508 771-8600.

August 13, 7:30 PM
“Family Movie Nights on The Green” featuring the classic family comedy “Ramona and Beezus”, Grab the family, the spouse, the beach chair and a picnic basket and come to the Village Green in Mashpee Commons. The flick will be screened on a 21-foot inflatable, jumbo movie screen. The cost is $10 per adult and $5 for kids under 12. All proceeds will support The Mashpee Dog Park. In the event of rain, check www.facebook.com/mashpeedogpark or call 508-477-BONE to check on the rain date.

August 15 – 19:
All About Color, Design and Fun! Art classes for kids ages 6 – 12. 9:30 am – noon, Cape Cod Museum of Art (see below)
Aug 22 – 26: Art of the Circus – classes for kids ages 6 – 12. 9:30 am – noon,
The Cape Cod Museum of Art is located at 60 Hope Lane in Dennis. For more information or to register call 508-385-4477 ext. 16 or visit www.ccmoa.org.

August 16, 11 am
Digging For Dinosaurs
The Cape Cod Children’s Museum, Mashpee
http://www.capecodchildrensmuseum.org

August 17 at 11:00 AM.
Kaleidoscope Children’s Theatre at the Cape Cod Melody Tent
21 West Main Street, Hyannis. Contact Information: 508-775-5630
http://www.melodytent.org. Day-of -Show Tickets are $10.50, advance $8.50

August 23 – 25, ages 6-11: Fairy Houses & Gnome Homes Art Workshop
The Cape Cod Art Association is located at 3480 Route 6A in Barnstable. For more information or to register call 508-362-2909 or visit www.capecodartassoc.org.

Fridays and Saturdays through September 3, 10 am
Academy Playhouse in Orleans presents Disney’s musical Alice in Wonderland 120 Main Street in Orleans. For more information or for tickets call 508-255-1963.
Weekly
2011 Citizen’s Bank Cape Cod Summer Concert Series – free weekly outdoor concerts across 8 Cape Cod towns. http://www.artsfoundtion.org/summer-concerts.

More activities may be found at www.CapeCodKidz.com and www.kidsonthecape.com.

Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Codder Resort, family concerts, Family Fun, family movies, Indoor Activities, kids art instruction, kids theater, science demonstrations | Tagged art instruction kids, Cape Cod, Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, Cape Codder, Cape Codder Resort, crafts, family activities, Family Fun, family theater, Family Vacation Blog, Heritage Museum, Hyannis, music, Teen Travel, Vacation Blog | Leave a comment