New England may have a reputation as being reserved and traditional, but Massachusetts harbors one of the most eccentric towns in the county. Sitting pretty just at the tip of Cape Cod, this coastal colony is the place to go for artistic flair and some truly zany happenings.
Provincetown may well be the most eccentric and colorful town in the state.
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Though it’s home to a mere 3,000 year-round residents, the summer population swells to as high as 60,000 people!
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Provincetown is an incredibly inclusive and welcoming place. The town is known for its vibrant gay community and raucously fun pride parades.
Flickr/Harvey Barrison
It is also an art haven where artists of all kinds gather to create and display their beautiful work. Arts groups such as the Fine Arts Work Center and the Provincetown Art Association and Museum keep things colorful in town.
Flickr/Chris Devers
Plenty of famous folk have been locals including Jackson Pollock, Norman Mailer, Kurt Vonnegut, Anthony Bourdain, Mary Oliver and Tennessee Williams,
Wikimedia Commons/Westport Wiki
Provincetown is also known for its gorgeous beaches and picturesque harbor. Take a walk down to the water just a few steps from Commercial Street and enjoy the stunning scenery.
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If you visit during the summer (and you really should) plan your trip around one of the town’s epic parades.
Flickr/Ted Eytan
You’ll spot all sorts of amazing getups and mingle with friendly locals and visitors.
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Stop by one of the town’s many candy shops for a sweet treat or locally made dessert.
Flickr/Mattia Panciroli
There’s also the towering Pilgrim Monument to climb. It’s the tallest granite structure in America. If you can’t manage the trek up the 252-foot tower, admiring it from below is lovely as well.
Flickr/Jared Kelly
And of course, there’s nothing like popping into Shop Therapy to browse the whimsical wares.
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If all that exploring makes you hungry, grab a seafood dinner overlooking the water at the famed Lobster Pot restaurant.
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No matter when you visit Provincetown, there’s no denying that this place is beautifully eccentric.
Flickr/Gerry
Provincetown isn’t the only fun-loving town in the state. Check out these Massachusetts towns with incredibly lively main streets.
Flickr/MOTT
Flickr/Harvey Barrison
Flickr/Chris Devers
Wikimedia Commons/Westport Wiki
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Flickr/Ted Eytan
Flickr/Art N.
Flickr/Mattia Panciroli
Flickr/Jared Kelly
Flickr/Gerry
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