The first thing you’re going to notice about Cape Cod is that you have to cross the Cape Cod Canal to get to it! In essence, Cape Cod is a man-made island.
There are two ways over the Canal - the Sagamore Bridge to the north and the Bourne Bridge to the south. This is usually enough access unless you’re trying to arrive on Friday afternoon or leave us on Sunday afternoon during June, July or August. In that case, I’m afraid that you’re going to wade through 10 or 15 miles of heavy traffic depending on your route.
But if this is your first trip to the Cape, don’t rush past it, please stop in at the Canal Visitor Center run by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. You’ll find out that the Pilgrims were the first folks who wanted to construct a short-cut through the Cape for ships, but it wasn’t until 1914 that the Canal was actually finished. It was privately constructed by August Belmont, but evenually for engineering and economic reasons was taken over by the U.S. government. Today at 500 fet wide and 32 feet deep it is the widest sea-level canal in the world.
The area surrounding the canal has become a favorite recreation area of many residents. There are paved pathways along the canal that are a great place for walking, running, or biking. You’ll always find something interesting to look at on the canal. You’ll find tot lot for smaller kids to play in. Picnic tables are a convenient place to eat. There are also restrooms.
