Where to go in Cape Cod
 

We will be staying Labor Day weekend in Newport, RI. We would like to drive out ot the Cape on Sunday. Since we only have one day to explore, where do you recommend we go? Will most places be open on Sunday? Thanks!

I'd go all the way to Provincetown and explore other spots along the way there and back (which I'm sure others can help with). Most every place will be open on Sunday, as it's considered the last weekend of the summer season. After that, things start to wind down and traffic lightens up a bit. Be prepared for quite a bit of traffic on the Cape, it could turn into a very long day. Another suggestion is a day trip to Block Island. They now run ferry service during the summer from Newport to Block Island.

While Sam's assessment of P-town is spot on, I wouldn't recommend it, especially on Labor Day weekend.

Provincetown is 3 hours (120 mi., non-interstate)from Newport on a non rush holiday. Unless the weather is lousy, the Cape will be crowded that weekend.

Maybe consider Block Island, or check the ferry schedules to and from Martha's Vineyard...

http://www.islandqueen.com/

http://web1.steamshipauthority.com/ssa/

I agree with gc. If you attempt this, you will likely be sitting in your car all day. Newport has plenty of things to keep you busy. Block Island would be a better option. You'll probably need reservations for anything you do that weekend.

If you wanted to go to Martha's Vineyard, I would recommend taking the ferry from New Bedford. It's a much closer drive from Newport - you will avoid all of the Cape traffic (although longer boat ride to the Island) Again, check now for availability for anything you are attempting in these areas on a holiday weekend. Enjoy!

You might be better off just staying in Newport for such a short stay but if you really would like to see Cape Cod, this is how I would do it:

Get up as early as you can and jump in the car. The Cape is best explored in early morning anyway with light traffic, deserted beaches and the sun is not too hot.

Once on the Cape follow route 6A through Sandwich and Barnstable there will be many restaurants for breakfast and bay beaches to explore along the way.

Take route 132 to Hyannis and visit JFK Memorial and parks and beaches off Ocean street. There are plenty of options for lunch in Hyannis.

Had enough? Jump onto route 6 for fast track back to Newport. Wan't more? Follow route 28 from Hyannis through Barnstable, Mashpee, Falmouth & Bourne to the canal & back to Newport.

Provincetown: although it is an absolutely fantastic and unique place is just too much driving for 1 day as gc pointed out.

Ivk - Just wanted to let you know that New Bedford added a fast ferry to MV today that only takes 55 minutes. The Steamship Auyhority ferry out of Woods Hole takes 45 minutes.