A Classic Cape Cod Summer Awaits at Chatham Bars Inn for America’s 250th Anniversary
Chatham, MA – Chatham Bars Inn, the beloved Forbes Travel Guide Five Star resort set on 25 oceanfront acres on Cape Cod, unveiled its 2026 summer season offerings today with an enhanced lineup of new coastal experiences and thoughtful programming.
This year, the resort expanded its impressive fleet to include eight privately owned and operated boating vessels available for a variety of water excursions, from sailing to whale watching. The resort also launched new offerings at its eight-acre farm in nearby Brewster with hands-on classes that invite guests to get a behind-the-scenes look at the techniques, traditions, and expertise that define its celebrated farm-to-table program. Rooted in more than a century of seaside hospitality, the resort continues to refine its signature blend of heritage and modern luxury, offering an especially meaningful setting to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary against the backdrop of Cape Cod’s distinct New England charm.
Expanded Fleet – Boating at Chatham Bars Inn:
Chatham Bars Inn has elevated its renowned boating program for summer 2026 with an expanded fleet of custom vessels and seasoned resident captains, offering guests more ways than ever to explore the beautiful surrounding waters of Aunt Lydia's Cove and beyond. Departing directly from a dock on the resort’s private beach, experiences include whale-watching, fishing, sailing and private charters to nearby Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard.
The resort introduced two new vessels available for guests this season. Starfish is a Maine-built Downeast vessel known for its stability and spacious design, featuring a sheltered cabin, cushioned seating and ample space to move about. It is ideal for whale watching and Nantucket day trips. Starlight Express is a high-performance center console designed for speed, stability, and comfort. This 46’ Valhalla is ideal for private charters as it offers a smooth, powerful ride perfect for exploring Cape Cod waters, with premium seating and top-tier amenities for a refined on-the-water experience.
The resort also continues to offer guests a complimentary boat shuttle service to and from North Beach Island, part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Just a quick 10-minute ride across the harbor, this pristine stretch of sand is perfect for beach walks, secluded picnics, wildlife spotting, and seashell collecting.
New Farm & Floral Classes at the Chatham Bars Inn Farm
Further enhancing its acclaimed farm program, Chatham Bars Inn debuted a new series of immersive agricultural classes at its picturesque eight-acre farm in Brewster. These hands-on experiences include classes on seasonal planting, floral design, beekeeping lessons, and more which invite guests to engage more deeply with Cape Cod’s bountiful summer harvest.
Guided by the Inn’s expert farm, culinary, and gardening teams, the classes enhance the resort’s ever-popular weekly farm dinners and tours that return this year on June 17. Each dinner features a different cuisine with customized menus structured around the seasonal produce harvested from the Farm.
Celebrating America’s 250th at Chatham Bars Inn
As the U.S. marks its 250th anniversary, Chatham Bars Inn offers a uniquely meaningful setting to celebrate this historic milestone. With roots dating back to the early 20th century, the resort is steeped in the tradition and charm of coastal New England. Guests can experience the essence of a classic Cape Cod summer through time-honored traditions, including July 4th week festivities with fireworks, a carnival and July 4th Main Street Parade –one of the oldest in the country– alongside clambakes, sunset cocktails, and leisurely walks on the private beach or Chatham’s charming Main Street. Blending historic character with relaxed coastal elegance, Chatham Bars Inn captures the nostalgic spirit of Americana, offering an authentic and memorable way to celebrate summer by the sea.
ABOUT CHATHAM BARS INN
Originally opened in 1914 as a luxury hunting lodge, Chatham Bars Inn’s year-round 25-acre oceanfront resort is a short stroll from the picturesque Chatham Main Street and has become a beloved Cape Cod haven. The resort boasts luxurious accommodations, exciting culinary offerings, wellness retreats and quintessential New England experiences, all enhanced with modern conveniences combined with an old-world charm that is rarely seen today. The resort’s 217 individually decorated guestrooms and suites range from the historic Main Inn to dozens of shingled cottage-style buildings with breathtaking views. Visitors can enjoy classic Cape Cod activities on the resort’s quarter-mile private beach, as well as extensive wellness and seasonal programming. With the resort’s private fleet of boats, guests can take whale watching, fishing, charters to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, and sailing excursions along the shores of the Cape. Epicureans delight in Chatham Bars Inn’s various culinary experiences at the Inn and at the Inn’s eight-acre Farm and pier-to-plate menus in partnership with local fishermen. From family vacations to romantic getaways, and corporate retreats to intimate celebrations, new and returning guests of Chatham Bars Inn find a comforting home at this inviting Cape escape.
Chatham Bars Inn is a recipient of the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Hotel Award. It was also named the #1 Resort in Massachusetts and the #2 Resort in New England by Condé Nast Traveler’s coveted 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards and is a proud member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts “Legend” Collection. The Inn was also named the 2024 Best Waterfront Hotel in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards, and named the #1 Hotel in North America in the 2023 Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ iPrefer Members’ Choice Awards. For reservations, visit www.chathambarsinn.com or call 800-527-4884.
