The first community most visitors experience, or at least drive through, when they arrive on Cape Cod is Bourne. Though the traffic over the bridges may be hectic in summer, a visit to Bourne’s villages—from Cataumet to Pocasset, Bournedale to Sagamore—may be the epitome of a quiet Cape  Cod getaway.

Naturally, the Cape Cod Canal—which has bisected the peninsula since 1914—is a major attraction all year long. Sightseers can view shipping traffic on the manmade waterway throughout the year, and the herring run is an attraction every spring. Along the canal, walkers, runners and cyclists take advantage of 13-1/2 miles of paved trails, and fishermen can always be found casting for a catch. For another view, hop aboard a Hy-Line canal cruise in spring or summer.

Near the Cape Cod Canal Railroad Bridge, visitors will come across the Aptucxet Trading Post, which is open on select days during the year. In 1627, the Pilgrims constructed a post on the site to trade with Native Americans and the Dutch. Though the original structure was destroyed, the foundation was discovered in the 19th century and a replica was built and exists on the location today.

Hungry? The Chart Room in Cataumet is known for its lobster salad, tasty mudslides and a killer view overlooking Red Brook Harbor. Another savory option is Flynn’s Irish Pub in Sagamore, which won “Best Burger” in CAPE COD LIFE’s 2015 readers’ choice awards. On Tuesdays, try the “Two-Timin’ burger!”

Two more Bourne organizations heat up every summer: the Bourne Historical Society, which hosts events where attendees can learn about blacksmithing and other old-time trades; and the Bourne Braves, which play their Cape Cod Baseball League home games at Doran Park. Opening Day for the team’s 2016 season is Friday, June 10, at 6 p.m.

A few more peaceful spots in town include the Four Ponds Conservation Area, which offers an enjoyable 3-1/2 mile nature trail in Pocasset: and Monument Beach, a spacious beach near the western entrance to the canal, which offers scenic harbor views and remains relatively quiet in the summer.