Centerville Travel Guide

Our Centerville travel guide offers helpful and informative information on the town's attractions, activities, places to stay, and much more!


Introduction to Centerville

Centerville is a small town located in Mid Cape, Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It is a popular destination for tourists due to its proximity to beautiful beaches, charming colonial architecture, and rich history. The town has something to offer to everyone, from history buffs to nature enthusiasts. In this guide, we shall explore the best places to visit, activities to indulge in, food and drink options, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Centerville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Centerville Historical Museum

Image Source: Centerville Historical Museum

Centerville Historical Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It preserves and exhibits the town’s history through a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents. The museum is located in a classic colonial-style building, which was restored to look like a 19th-century captain’s house. The exhibits showcase the town’s history from prehistoric times to the present.

Craigville Beach

Image Source: BarnstableThisMorning

Craigville Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Cape Cod, located just a mile away from Centerville. It boasts beautiful white sand, stunning sunsets, and clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, playing beach sports, and strolling along the shore. The beach offers lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and food vendors.

Natural Attractions of Centerville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hathaway’s Pond

Image Source: Mass Open Space

Hathaway’s Pond is a beautiful freshwater lake located a mile away from Centerville. It is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and kayaking. The park also has hiking trails that offer scenic views of the lake and the surrounding woods. Visitors can also rent boats and paddleboards.

Cape Cod Lavender Farm

Image Source: Cape Cod Lavender Farm

Cape Cod Lavender Farm is a serene, picturesque farm located in Harwich, ten miles away from Centerville. It is a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. The farm features a wide variety of lavender plants, herb gardens, butterflies, and bees. Visitors can take a guided walking tour, shop for lavender products, or have a picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Centerville

Centerville has plenty of hiking and biking trails, which offer beautiful views of the town’s landscapes, forests, and shorelines. Several of these are located within a short drive from Centerville.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail

Image Source: Cape Cod Rail Trail

The Cape Cod Rail Trail is a scenic bike trail that stretches for 25 miles from Dennis to Wellfleet. The trail passes through several towns, including Centerville, and offers stunning views of the countryside, salt marshes, and cranberry bogs. The trail is open year-round and has several parking areas for easy access.

The Three Ponds Trail

Image Source: Trail Link

The Three Ponds Trail is a beautiful hiking trail located in Harwich, ten miles away from Centerville. It passes through woodlands, wetlands, and several ponds. The trail is easy to navigate and is suitable for families and beginners.

Best Things to Do in Centerville: Activities and Tours

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises

Image Source: Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises is a popular attraction among visitors and locals alike. It offers whale watching tours that take visitors to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, one of the top places in the world for whale watching. The tours are led by experienced naturalists who offer informative commentary and insights into the behavior of these magnificent creatures.

Oyster Island Tours

Image Source: Oyster Island Tours

Oyster Island Tours is a unique experience that takes visitors on a tour of the beautiful bays, harbors, and island of a private oyster farm located in Barnstable. Visitors can learn about the history, science, and culinary aspects of oyster farming, as well as sample the fresh oysters.

Week-Long Itinerary for Centerville

Day Activity
Monday Relax at Craigville Beach
Tuesday Visit the Centerville Historical Museum and Main Street
Wednesday Hike the Three Ponds Trail and visit the Cape Cod Lavender Farm
Thursday Take a whale watching tour with Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises
Friday Have a picnic and swim at Hathaway’s Pond
Saturday Go on an Oyster Island Tour
Sunday Explore nearby towns like Osterville and Downtown Hyannis

Food and Drink Scene of Centerville

Must-Try Dishes

Lobster Roll

Image Source: The 400 East Restaurant & Bar

The Lobster Roll is one of the signature dishes of Cape Cod, and Centerville is no exception. The 400 East Restaurant & Bar is a popular spot to enjoy this delicacy. The restaurant serves the roll on a grilled hot dog bun, filled with fresh lobster meat, and drizzled with melted butter.

Clam Chowder

Image Source: The Mills Restaurant

The Clam Chowder is another staple dish of Cape Cod. The Mills Restaurant in Marstons Mills, close to Centerville, serves one of the best chowders in the area. The restaurant uses fresh local clams and a creamy broth to create the perfect blend of flavors.

Local Beverages

Cape Cod Beer

Image Source: Cape Cod Beer

Cape Cod Beer is a local microbrewery that offers a wide variety of handcrafted beers. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery, learn about the brewing process, and sample the beers in the taproom.

Cape Cod Coffee

Image Source: Cape Cod Coffee

Cape Cod Coffee is a family-owned business that roasts and sells premium coffee. Visitors can take a tour of the roastery, learn about the coffee-making process, and sample some of the coffee.

Where to Stay in Centerville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Long Dell Inn

Image Source: Long Dell Inn

Long Dell Inn is a beautiful, colonial-style inn located in Centerville. It is a perfect place to stay for those who want to experience the town’s history and charm. The inn features comfortable rooms, delicious breakfast, and a beautiful garden.

Craigville Beach Inn

Image Source: Craigville Beach Inn

Craigville Beach Inn is another popular option for accommodation. It is located close to Craigville Beach and offers comfortable rooms, a heated outdoor pool, and a laid-back atmosphere.

What to Buy in Centerville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Centerville Country Store

Image Source: Centerville Country Store

Centerville Country Store is a charming, old-fashioned store that sells a wide variety of products, from souvenirs to Yankee candles. Visitors can purchase local products like cranberry jam, saltwater taffy, and Cape Cod potato chips.

Cape Cod Lavender Farm Shop

Image Source: Cape Cod Lavender Farm Shop

Cape Cod Lavender Farm Shop sells a wide variety of lavender products, from sachets to lotions. Visitors can purchase beautiful gifts for themselves and their loved ones.

Local Culture and Customs of Centerville

Centerville has a rich history and is proud of its cultural heritage. The town celebrates several festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing its traditions and customs. Visitors are encouraged to attend and experience the town’s lively community spirit.

Best Time to Visit Centerville

The best time to visit Centerville is from May through September, when the weather is pleasant, and the activities and attractions are open. However, the peak season can get crowded, and prices can rise. Visitors can also consider visiting the town in the off-season, from October to April, when the weather is cooler, and the prices are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Centerville

Do:

  • Explore the town’s history and culture
  • Relax at the beautiful beaches and parks
  • Try the local seafood and coffee
  • Attend the town’s festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or parks
  • Ignore the local traffic laws and speed limits
  • Intentionally harm the environment or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Centerville

Centerville is a safe town with a low crime rate. However, visitors are encouraged to take precautions like locking their cars and securing their valuables. Visitors should also pay attention to the local weather forecasts and avoid swimming during storms or rough seas.

Health in Centerville

Centerville has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors should carry their health insurance and medical history documents and follow basic hygiene practices like washing hands.

Getting to Centerville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Centerville

The nearest major airport to Centerville is Boston Logan International Airport, located 80 miles away. The airport has several transportation options, including shuttle buses, taxis, and rental cars.

Bus Stations Near Centerville

The closest bus station to Centerville is the Plymouth-Brockton Street Railway Company, located in Hyannis, six miles away. The company offers bus services to several destinations in Cape Cod and beyond.

Other Options

Visitors can also consider booking a hotel that offers shuttle services to and from the airport and attractions.

How to Get Around in Centerville

The best way to get around Centerville is by car, as public transportation options are limited. Visitors can also rent bikes or walk to explore the town’s attractions.

Where to Go Next from Centerville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Centerville is located in the heart of Cape Cod, making it an ideal base to explore the nearby towns and attractions. Visitors can consider visiting nearby towns like Osterville, Mashpee, and Downtown Hyannis or go island hopping to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket.

Conclusion

Centerville is a charming, historic town that offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, colonial architecture, and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the town’s attractions, indulge in local cuisine, and relax at the beautiful beaches. With this travel guide, visitors can plan their itinerary and make the most of their trip to Centerville.