From Seekonk to Provincetown – A Timeless Coastal Adventure
Get ready to experience one of the most scenic and historic stretches of US Route 6 as it weaves through the heart of Massachusetts! Starting near the Rhode Island border in Seekonk and ending at the windswept shores of Provincetown, this journey captures the vibrant spirit, maritime legacy, and natural beauty that define the Bay State.
Starting Point: Seekonk, Massachusetts
Our adventure begins in Seekonk, a welcoming town known for its blend of New England charm and easygoing energy. Route 6 enters Massachusetts here, offering convenient access to the vibrant urban hubs and coastal gems that lie ahead.
Before heading out, take a moment to explore local parks like Seekonk Grand Prix for a bit of fun, or fuel up at one of the many family-owned diners dotting the town.
️ Fall River – A City Steeped in Maritime History
As Route 6 heads east, you’ll soon reach Fall River, famously known for its textile industry legacy and rich nautical history.
Highlights include:
- Battleship Cove – Home to the world’s largest collection of World War II naval vessels, including the USS Massachusetts.
- Fall River Heritage State Park – Offering riverside walking trails and stunning views of the Taunton River.
- Lizzie Borden House – A must-see for true crime enthusiasts.
Fall River’s vibrant waterfront and historic mills make it an unforgettable stop on your Route 6 journey.
⚓ New Bedford – The Whaling City
Continue east to New Bedford, where seafaring history runs deep. In the 19th century, New Bedford was the world’s preeminent whaling port, and that legacy remains alive today.
Top stops:
- New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park – Stroll through cobblestone streets and visit historic whaling-era buildings.
- New Bedford Harbor – Watch commercial fishing vessels unload the day’s catch at one of America’s most valuable fishing ports.
- Buttonwood Park Zoo – A delightful detour, especially if you’re traveling with family.
Cape Cod Canal – Gateway to the Cape
As you approach Bourne, you’ll cross the Cape Cod Canal, a marvel of engineering that reshaped maritime travel.
Route 6 runs close to both the Bourne Bridge and Sagamore Bridge — either route will sweep you onto Cape Cod.
Recommended stop:
- Cape Cod Canal Visitor Center – Learn about the canal’s fascinating history, or enjoy a bike ride along the scenic Canal Bikeway.
Crossing the canal truly feels like stepping into another world: slower-paced, sea-scented, and rich with coastal charm.
Cape Cod Adventure: From Sandwich to Orleans
Once on Cape Cod, Route 6 becomes a true coastal highway.
Drive through historic towns like:
- Sandwich – The Cape’s oldest town, known for its glass museum and serene beaches.
- Barnstable – A collection of seven villages, each with its own flavor.
- Orleans – The gateway to the National Seashore, offering beaches like Nauset Beach.
Consider quick detours to local seafood shacks, antique stores, and cranberry bogs along the way.
️ Destination: Provincetown – Where the Journey Ends (or Begins!)
At the very tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown awaits — a vibrant, artsy town with stunning coastal beauty and a welcoming atmosphere.
Must-see experiences:
- Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum – Climb for panoramic views.
- Race Point Beach – Perfect for watching the sunset or spotting whales offshore.
- Commercial Street – Stroll this lively strip filled with galleries, shops, and restaurants.
End your Route 6 journey by dipping your toes into the Atlantic Ocean at Race Point or Herring Cove Beach — a fitting finale to a truly historic road trip.