Day 23 – Pilgrims, Presidents, Harbors, and Lighthouses

I began the day in Plymouth, Massachusetts, the birthplace of American history. My first stop was the iconic Plymouth Rock, that modest yet powerful symbol of where the Pilgrims first landed in 1620. Nearby, the Mayflower II, a beautiful replica of the original ship, rested in the harbor.  The shoreline was stunning, lined with sailboats and yachts that sparkled in the morning light. I had hoped to visit the Pilgrim Hall Museum, but unfortunately it was closed, so I spent some extra time walking along the waterfront, enjoying the view and the sea air.

From Plymouth, I drove toward Hyannis, where I stopped to see the Hyannis Lighthouse and visit the John F. Kennedy Museum. The museum offered a fascinating look at the Kennedy family’s connection to Cape Cod, with photographs and exhibits that captured the legacy of JFK. The town itself had a relaxed coastal charm, filled with shops, cafes, and locals enjoying the fall weather.

Next, I made my way to the Nauset Lighthouse, one of Cape Cod’s most photographed landmarks. Its bright red and white tower stood against the dunes and the deep blue Atlantic. Continuing along the Cape Cod National Seashore, I explored more of the coastline, where the ocean stretched endlessly and the waves rolled in with power. I finished my lighthouse tour at the Highland Lighthouse, perched dramatically above the cliffs in Truro, before heading to Race Point Beach near Provincetown. The beach was wide and windswept, with golden sand and a sky painted in blue and clouds, a perfect Cape Cod moment. I even saw a fox at Race Point Beach, clearly on the hunt for food as it prowled around each car that pulled into the parking lot.

The day ended on a wonderful note. I met my good friend Sean, who lives on Cape Cod. We had a relaxing dinner together, filled with good conversation and laughter. Sean, a master carpenter, has completely renovated his home with remarkable craftsmanship. He’s also restored many antiques, including a particularly interesting thank-you card from the Civil War era, a rare and fascinating piece of history. His home reflects both artistry and soul, a warm and welcoming space filled with character. It was the perfect way to close out a long, beautiful day on the Cape.