Sandwich is a town located on Cape Cod in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. It is the oldest town on Cape Cod, founded by English settlers in 1637. Sandwich was named for the seaport of Sandwich, Kent, England.
The town played a significant role in the early history of the Cape, serving as a center of trade and commerce. It was also the site of the first glassworks in the colonies in 1825.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Sandwich remained a thriving maritime community, with shipbuilding and fishing as the main industries. The town also had a strong agricultural tradition, with cranberries and strawberries being the main crops.
In the 20th century, Sandwich became a popular tourist destination, with its historic homes, beautiful beaches, and charming downtown area drawing visitors from all over the region. Today, the town is known for its history, natural beauty, and outdoor recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and hiking.
Discover the charm of Cape Cod’s oldest town – Sandwich, MA on your next vacation. Delight in its beautiful beaches, captivating museums, stunning scenery, and unique shopping and dining experiences at top-rated restaurants. With endless destinations and year-round events and activities, Sandwich is a must-visit destination on your trip.
Demographics
20,585
7,918
2.55
$111,610
$54,994
89.6%
$422,300
2017-2021
$1,589
or higher
48.0%
SOURCE: US Census, American Community Survey Program, Estimates for July 2021.
Real Estate Trends for Single-Family Homes
Housing Affordability
places to stay in Sandwich, MA
Where to Eat IN SANDWICH, MA
Golf Courses IN SANDWICH, MA
Things to do in Sandwich, MA
Explore Dexter’s Grist Mill.
Established in 1854, Dexter’s Grist Mill has a rich history, having been run by one family before becoming a museum in 1967. This historic destination was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
Visit Dexter’s Grist Mill for a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Take a tour to learn about the mill’s rich history and significance in the 1700s. See the mills in action, and take home a bag of fresh cornmeal from the still-operating mill. Don’t forget to capture the scenic surroundings with your camera.
Discover the Heritage Museums and Gardens.
Each year, thousands flock to the Heritage Museums and Gardens for its stunning scenery and unique exhibits. Stroll through well-manicured gardens, spacious lawns, and shaded paths. Marvel at the extensive collection of hybrid rhododendrons, trees, flowers, shrubs, and herbs. Admire the beauty of the gardens in any season and witness the blooming of various flowers. Don’t miss the museum, housing a diverse collection of art and vintage items, including famous automobiles and a functioning carousel. Enjoy a scenic walk and find unique treasures only at Sandwich’s Heritage Museums and Gardens.
Experience feeding the fish at the Sandwich Fish Hatchery.
Explore the diverse fish at the Sandwich Fish Hatchery and try your hand at feeding them. Take a self-guided tour and observe the fish swimming in their habitats. Learn about the various species of fish, including Brook, Rainbow, and Tiger Trouts. The hatchery boasts an impressive collection and is a great place to observe and interact with these fascinating creatures. Don’t miss the exciting experience of feeding the fish with food purchased at the hatchery, as they will flock to you in no time.
Explore the historic charm of the Sandwich Boardwalk on foot.
Stroll along the historic Sandwich Boardwalk, built in 1845 and still a beloved landmark today. Soak in the sea and sky views on this 1,300-ft walk, ideal for great Cape Cod moments. The end of the Sandwich Boardwalk leads to a secluded beach with a stunning view of the bay.
Visit the Sandwich Antique Center.
The Sandwich Antiques Center, open for over two decades, is a premier destination for antique lovers from around the world. It attracts those with a keen eye for unique items and an appreciation for quality craftsmanship. Explore the 5,000-square-foot space for antiques, sculptures, art, photography, and modern items to suit all tastes. Whether you’re a collector or simply curious, stop by and see what treasures you can find.
Take a break at Sandy Neck Beach.
Relax and have fun at Sandy Neck Beach.
Sandy Neck Beach is a picturesque destination for families and groups seeking a day in the sun.
Enjoy activities such as splashing, sandcastle building, sunbathing or simply lounging on the sandy shore.
End the day watching the sunset with loved ones, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Explore the Sandwich Glass Museum.
The Sandwich Glass Museum showcases the town’s rich glassmaking history through its extensive collection of glass items and interactive exhibits.
Experience the glassmaking process firsthand as you observe workers at the furnace and watch glassblowers create unique pieces.
Discover the evolution of glass production in Sandwich through dedicated rooms showcasing different aspects of the town’s glass history.
Don’t miss the chance to delve into the past of Sandwich and appreciate the art of glassmaking at the Sandwich Glass Museum.
Embark on an Adventure Along Old King’s Highway.
Embark on a scenic journey along Old King’s Highway, a historic road recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. Admire 17th to 19th-century architecture as you drive past charming old houses. Explore the numerous attractions along the way, and don’t forget to fuel up and charge your camera for picture-perfect moments on this historic highway.
Explore the Canals in Cape Cod Canal Visitors Center.
Discover the rich history and explore the canals of Cape Cod at the Canal Visitors Center. Immerse in interactive exhibits, ride a 40-ft patrol boat, and even control a virtual boat ride. Perfect for families, kids, and both visitors and locals.
Escape to Shawme-Crowell State Forest for a day in nature.
Spend a day in nature at Shawme-Crowell State Forest, a 700-acre haven of pine and scrub oak trees. With ample opportunities for camping, hiking, horseback riding, and more, this state forest is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy the various amenities, such as picnic areas, playgrounds, a pavilion, restrooms, an RV parking area, a nature center, and more. You can camp in one of the 285 available sites or hike the 15-mile trail. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Shawme-Crowell State Forest is the perfect destination. Bring your friends and family and explore the great outdoors.
Live like a local and float down Scornton Creek.
Scorton Creek is located in East Sandwich, Massachusetts, and is a beautiful waterway that winds through the town and eventually empties into Cape Cod Bay. It is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
The creek itself is a saltwater tidal estuary, meaning that it is influenced by the tides and is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life. In addition to a variety of fish species, you may also spot ospreys, herons, and other wildlife along the banks of the creek.
One popular activity on Scorton Creek is to rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the waterway at your own pace. You can paddle upstream towards the salt marshes and enjoy the serene natural beauty of the area, or head downstream towards Cape Cod Bay and take in the stunning views of the coastline.
Overall, Scorton Creek is a hidden gem in East Sandwich, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Cape Cod and immerse themselves in the local culture of this charming New England town.
Discover the perfect blend of nature and craft beer at Treehouse Brewery
Nestled in the heart of Sandwich, MA, Treehouse Brewery is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the perfect blend of nature and craft beer. Known for their top-notch selection of IPAs, stouts, and sour beers, Treehouse Brewery offers visitors a unique opportunity to sample some of the best craft beer in the region while surrounded by the natural beauty of Cape Cod. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or just looking for a fun day out with friends, a visit to Treehouse Brewery is sure to delight your senses and leave you with lasting memories.
Get your Mini Golf on: Enjoy an exciting game in Sandwich, MA!
Sandwich, MA boasts has a mini golf course that are perfect for visitors and locals alike. The town’s scenic beauty provides the perfect backdrop for a game of mini golf, with lush greenery and beautiful water features adding to the ambiance. Sandwich Mini Golf, which features two 18-hole courses with unique and challenging holes. Whether you’re a seasoned mini golfer or a first-timer, Sandwich, MA is the perfect place to enjoy a fun-filled round of mini golf.
Let’s visit Sandwich Museums!
Scan this QR code to see the Sandwich Museum trail.
Sandwich Wedding Venues
Getting married soon? From elegant ballrooms to rustic barns, Sandwich offers a range of venues to suit your style and budget. You can choose from venues that can accommodate large wedding parties or opt for an intimate celebration with your closest friends and family.
History in SANDWICH, MA
As the oldest Cape town, Sandwich is steeped in history. Explore the Wing Fort House, believed to be New England’s oldest continuously occupied family home, constructed in 1641. Today, this historic dwelling serves as an engaging museum. History aficionados will find the Old Town Cemetery captivating, with tombstones dating back to the 1700s and an intriguing marker from 1683.
Arts in SANDWICH, MA
The Sandwich Arts Alliance passionately supports and champions local artists year-round. From visual and literary arts to mesmerizing performances, they host meetings and events that nurture creative expression. Be sure to visit Collections Gallery and Black Crow Gallery to experience the distinctive works of our talented local artists.
Culture in SANDWICH, MA
Step into the natural world and history at the Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen, proudly managed by the Thornton W. Burgess Society. Walk in the footsteps of the renowned author, exploring the grounds that inspired his cherished tales, including “The Adventures of Peter Cottontail.” Witness the art of traditional jam-making, as the historic Jam Kitchen, initiated by Ida Putnam in 1903, offers captivating live demonstrations throughout the year.
EDUCATION in SANDWICH, MA
Sandwich’s educational landscape features four exceptional public schools: Forestdale School (pre-K through second grade), Oak Ridge School (third through sixth grades), Sandwich STEM (seventh and eighth grades), and Sandwich High School. Additionally, the Waldorf School of Cape Cod, situated in Sandwich, provides comprehensive educational programs spanning early childhood through middle school.