Truro – 2016 town profile
Cape Cod Life / 2016 Annual / Art & Entertainment, Food & Dining, History, Nature, People & Businesses, Recreation & Activities
Writer: Caitlyn McGuire / Photographer: Doug Lemke and Ken Schulze
Truro – 2016 town profile
Cape Cod Life / 2016 Annual / Art & Entertainment, Food & Dining, History, Nature, People & Businesses, Recreation & Activities
Writer: Caitlyn McGuire / Photographer: Doug Lemke and Ken Schulze
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, you have come to the right place. More than half of the land in Truro lies within the Cape Cod National Seashore and, as locals know and visitors will soon become aware, there are no fast food restaurants or even stoplights here. There is, however, a lot to do, see and enjoy.
Surrounded by water to the east and west, Truro has a number of big-wave beaches including Ballston and Head of the Meadow, both facing the Atlantic. At low tide, visitors to the latter can occasionally view the remains of the Frances, a ship that wrecked off the coast in 1872. Get a better view of the water aboard one of the many local fishing charters, which set out from Pamet Harbor.
Aiding ships at sea for more than 200 years, Highland Light is the oldest lighthouse on Cape Cod and a spectacular sight to behold. A stone’s throw away, the Highland House Museum resides in a former hotel built in 1907. Run by the Truro Historical Society, the museum displays artifacts detailing the lives of early settlers in the area, and is open daily, June to September 30.
Those staying in town have a variety of options. First, sweetness and tranquility are assured at Shady Rest Cottages on Route 6, and The Gingerbread House on Depot Road. Just need a bed? Hostelling International-Truro offers basic accommodations in a former Coast Guard Station. There are three campgrounds in town, too! Lastly, fulfill a dream by staying for 24 or 48 hours at one of the famous Days’ Cottages.
Truro has a flourishing arts scene, and visitors will find a number of small galleries and studios. Most of the work created at Jobi Pottery includes a nautical twist such as an animated sea creature or fish. Another local gem, Truro Vineyards is a great spot for weddings and offers tastings and tours. Sample 13 different varietals—and a new spiced rum—and bring home a red or white in the vintner’s unique lighthouse-shaped bottle.
For lunch or dinner, Savory and the Sweet Escape offers a plethora of pizzas and paninis; and remember to save the turtles—save room for the turtles, that is!—at the Chequessett Chocolate Factory & Café.