This Is The Friendliest Small Town In The United States

Overlooking the Atlantic, at the northern point of Cape Cod, Provincetown, Massachusetts, shines as the friendliest small town in the United States. This New England community has long been a popular tourist destination, but its appeal has truly blossomed in a post-pandemic world. With travelers craving authenticity and connection more than ever, Provincetown’s legacy of tolerance distinguishes it from other US towns, helping all feel welcome here. While its setting on a hook-shaped peninsula makes it popular with beachgoers and summer vacationers, what sets the coastal town apart is its history of hospitality. No matter how long or brief your visit, Provincetown locals will have you feeling right at home.

Provincetown: A Legacy of Freedom, Artistic Spirit, and Pride

Provincetown’s history of freedom stretches back centuries, one of its most prominent moments marked in 1620. That year, Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower in search of religious freedom reached the shores of North America where modern-day Provincetown stands. While their stay here was brief, this iconic event laid the foundation for the town's welcoming spirit and enduring tolerance.

Skipping ahead to the 1900s, Provincetown quickly grew into a vibrant art community. After artist Charles W. Hawthorne established the Cape Cod School of Art in 1899, other painters followed, drawn by the town’s captivating coastal landscapes. Soon after, Provincetown’s reputation as an “Artists’ Haven” attracted poets and playwrights like Eugene O’Neill. Over the decades, the community also gained fame as a summer retreat for the wealthy, but its artistic spirit remained the main attraction. This reputation drew more artists and creatives to Provincetown in search of like-minded souls and a sense of belonging.

By the 1960s, Provincetown had become a popular spot for gay and lesbian travelers seeking the same sense of belonging and acceptance. The town’s artistic vibe flourished alongside this new influx of tourists, bringing together bohemians and nonconformists through mutual support, acceptance, and creative exchange. To this day, Provincetown remains one of the best places in the country to experience art, pride, and community, welcoming people of all backgrounds.

Popular Events and Attractions In Provincetown

Provincetown Carnival

In 1978, the Provincetown Business Guild founded Carnival, an event aimed at embracing and celebrating the LGBTQ community in Cape Cod. This pride celebration continues annually, and over time, it has expanded to include people of all sexualities and backgrounds. Each summer, the weeklong festival attracts thousands of visitors from around the world, promoting community, creative expression, and acceptance. The event features costume contests, pool parties, live performances, and the well-known Carnival Parade on Commercial Street. In 2025, festivities begin on August 16th and conclude on the 23rd, with the parade scheduled for August 21st.

Commercial Street

Commercial Street is the lively center of Provincetown, even when there’s no festival happening. This 3-mile road connects to many family-friendly waterfront sites like MacMillan Pier, Provincetown Marina, Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch, and the Provincetown Causeway. But, to truly experience the town’s unique creative vibe, you should explore the land-based attractions along Commercial Street.

Honoring its artistic heritage, the stretch features some of Provincetown’s top galleries, such as the Provincetown Art Association and Museum, Cortile Gallery, and Studio Lacombe. Commercial Street is also home to the town’s most charming cafes and restaurants, from cozy spots like Connie's Bakery & Cafe to more upscale venues like Jimmy's HideAway. As evening falls, Provincetown’s lively nightlife provides great opportunities to connect with friendly locals and visitors alike. Options range from gastropubs like The Squealing Pig and cocktail lounges like Harbor Lounge to LGBTQ-friendly nightclubs like A-House, offering a variety of atmospheres for every mood.

Beaches, Beaches, Beaches!

No visit to Provincetown is complete without enjoying sand and sunshine at one of its award-winning shores. Among its 40 miles of breathtaking coastline, Cape Cod National Seashore Park boasts many of the town's best beaches. This includes shores like Herring Cove Beach which stands out for its embracing atmosphere, welcoming adult travelers and families alike. Its tidal pools and calm Atlantic waters are popular with kids, while adults prefer this shore for its famous watercolor sunsets. Herring Cove also promotes inclusivity through its accessible parking, beach wheelchairs, and accessible showers.

Race Point Beach is another crowd-favorite, beloved for its scenic dunes and views of the Race Point Lighthouse. Nearby, the Province Lands Visitor Center (open May through October) boasts a 360-degree observation deck for whale watching. Elsewhere in town, just off Commercial Street, Provincetown even offers a beach just for your four-legged friends. Many of Provincetown's shores are already dog-friendly, including Herring Cove. But places like Dog Beach provide a special experience for your furry companions, giving them a taste of the freedom Provincetown is famous for.

Provincetown Pride

While Provincetown is a year-round retreat for people in the LGBTQ community, the annual Provincetown Pride weekend is a beautiful reminder of the town’s legacy. In 2025, the 8th annual Pride celebration will take place June 6th to June 8th, featuring a range of parties, events, and festivities welcoming all. While specifics are still being explored, previous Provincetown Prides featured comedy shows, rallies at Town Hall, queer-led artisan markets, and countless other pride-themed festivities.

Final Thoughts

Since its first days as an art colony, Provincetown has welcomed people looking to explore their creativity and authentic selves, forever establishing it as a sanctuary for misfits and nonconformists. Today, this legacy of acceptance extends to all who pass through. Whether visiting for a family beach vacation or booking a getaway around one of Provincetown’s festivals, your time here will be met with unparalleled warmth, kindness, and hospitality.