Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour

Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour: A Deep Dive into Truro’s Coastal Charm

If you’re looking for a manageable but meaningful glimpse into Cape Cod’s seaside allure, the Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour offers just that — a well-balanced, private experience that combines history, scenery, and local culture. Designed for those who prefer a more intimate exploration rather than large group bus tours, this 1.5-hour journey packs in three of Truro’s most celebrated landmarks.

What we love about this tour is its thoughtfully curated stops: the oldest lighthouse on Cape Cod, a charming 1907 farmhouse turned cultural hub, and the first nine-hole links golf course in America set against stunning dunes. Both the panoramic ocean views from Highland Light and the historic ambiance of Highland House Museum make this tour stand out. On the flip side, it’s a short experience — if you’re craving a full-day deep dive into Cape Cod, you might find this feels a bit condensed.

This tour works best for travelers who want a taste of Cape Cod’s unique character without the fuss of long excursions. It’s perfect for history buffs, lighthouse lovers, or anyone keen on exploring the scenic coast at a relaxed pace. Now let’s break down what makes this tour truly special.

Key Points

• Private and intimate: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Stunning coastal views: Panoramic vistas from Highland Light are a highlight.
• Rich history: The Highland House Museum and lighthouse tell stories dating back to 1797.
• Cultural insights: Explore rooms inspired by notable local artists like Edward and Josephine Hopper.
• Scenic scenery: The golf course offers dramatic vistas over the Atlantic and dunes.
• Value for money: Priced at $58 per person, with included admissions, it offers a well-rounded snapshot of Truro.

The Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Start at Highland House Museum: A Window into Truro’s Past

The tour begins at the Highland House Museum, housed in a 1907 farmhouse that has served various roles — hotel, cultural center, and now a museum. Here, we appreciated the chance to step into rooms inspired by the artistry of Edward and Josephine Hopper, giving a glimpse of the local arts scene. The museum’s location on Highland Light Road also highlights its proximity to the lighthouse, integrating history and scenery.

Travelers have called it a “timeless treasure,” with the guided 90-minute visit offering a lively overview of Truro’s past. Admission is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, enough to absorb the exhibits and enjoy the peaceful setting.

Highland Light: Cape Cod’s Oldest Lighthouse

Next, the iconic Highland Light takes center stage. Established in 1797, this lighthouse is the oldest on Cape Cod and stands at 66 feet tall. Its commanding position on the cliffs of Truro means you’ll be greeted with sweeping views of the Atlantic — perfect for those postcard-worthy photos.

Climbing the 69 steps to the lantern room is a highlight, offering a 360-degree panorama of the coastline. It’s a chance to grasp how vital this lighthouse has been in guiding ships safely since Washington’s presidency. The 1996 relocation of the lighthouse’s lantern was a major event, and the guide shares this story with enthusiasm, adding depth to the visit.

Most travelers find Highland Light “breathtaking,” and the views alone justify the visit. Expect about 30 minutes here, including the climb and some time to soak in the scenery.

Highland Links Golf Course: A Historic Coastal Fairway

Finally, the tour visits Highland Links Golf Course, carved into the dunes and overlooking the Atlantic. This nine-hole course, dating back to circa 1892, is claimed as America’s first links-style golf course. Its rugged fairways and windswept grasses offer a different kind of scenic experience — more relaxed but equally spectacular.

If you’re into golf, or just enjoy dramatic coastal landscapes, this stop provides great photo opportunities. Many describe it as a “wilderness of dunes,” perfect for a peaceful walk or a quick look at one of American golf’s early innovations.

The visit here lasts about 30 minutes, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty and history without feeling rushed.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour is priced at $58 per person, which includes all admission fees for the lighthouse, museum, and golf course. For families or small groups, this fee offers good value given the personalized nature of the experience. The tour starts promptly at 10:30 am at the Truro Historical Society — Highland House Museum, and ends back at the same point.

Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, making it ideal for those seeking an intimate, flexible outing. The tour runs June through September, aligning with Cape Cod’s peak season and best weather. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and is accessible via public transportation.

Keep in mind, the tour is weather-dependent — if rain or storms interfere, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Why This Tour is a Great Pick

This experience combines history, coastal scenery, and cultural richness in a compact package. The visits to Highland Light and Highland House Museum offer authentic glimpses of local stories, while the golf course provides a scenic, less formal perspective on Cape Cod’s natural beauty. The private setting ensures personalized attention that larger tours often lack.

The price point makes it accessible, especially considering the included admissions and guided commentary. If you’re curious about Cape Cod’s maritime past, its artistic heritage, or simply want to enjoy stunning ocean vistas without a full-day commitment, this tour hits the sweet spot.

For those seeking a mix of history and scenery, with the bonus of a peaceful, private experience, it’s a practical and enjoyable choice. However, if you crave a more extensive exploration or activities like swimming or dining, you’ll want to supplement this trip with additional adventures.

The Sum Up

The Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour offers a well-rounded, low-key introduction to Truro’s coastal charm. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate history, scenic views, and cultural insights without the pressure of a long or crowded tour. The private aspect ensures a relaxed pace, personalized commentary, and a chance to savor each stop.

At just over an hour and a half, it’s an efficient way to get a snapshot of Cape Cod’s lighthouse heritage, local art, and coastal landscapes. The included admissions and knowledgeable guide make it a good value for anyone eager to learn and see the highlights.

While it may not satisfy those wanting a full-day adventure, it’s perfect for a morning or early afternoon outing, especially for couples, small families, or solo travelers seeking a quiet, meaningful experience. If pristine views, a touch of history, and a taste of local culture appeal to you, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your Cape Cod itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour?
It lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable and well-paced experience.

What is included in the price?
The $58 fee covers guided access to Highland Light, Highland House Museum, and Highland Links Golf Course, along with all admission fees.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private experience, meaning only your group participates, which allows for personalized attention and flexibility.

When does the tour run?
The tour starts at 10:30 am, from the Truro Historical Society-Highland House Museum, June through September.

Are there any physical requirements?
While not explicitly stated, expect a climb of 69 steps at the lighthouse, so good mobility helps, but it’s generally suitable for most travelers.

What about weather considerations?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, most travelers book about 27 days ahead, indicating good availability for early planning.

In brief, the Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour offers a charming, authentic taste of Cape Cod’s maritime and cultural history in a relaxed, personalized setting. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a scenic, educational outing that captures the spirit of this beloved coastal region.