Gay Provincetown Provincetown City Guide

At the very tip of Cape Cod, on a beautiful stretch of New England coastline, lies a colourful sandy outpost known as Provincetown. Clutching compelling history as the first point of landing for the Mayflower pilgrims in 1620 and since becoming an enclave for 19th Century Portuguese sailors, Provincetown has long been home to a thriving gay and artists’ community. A bustling but easy-going seaside community, Provincetown is one of America’s most beloved gaycation resort towns for good reason, with its abundance of independent shops, seafood-centric restaurants, acclaimed art galleries, and enthusiastic gay bars. Wondering what to see in Provincetown? Look no further than Mr Hudson’s Provincetown gay guide.

The best hotels in Provincetown

One of Provincetown’s many charms is its favouring of small, idiosyncratic inns over cookie-cutter chain hotels. If one-of-a-kind is your thing, you’ll find plenty to pique your interest in one of the luxuriously ornate suites at Land’s End Inn. Perched atop Gull Hill in the quiet West End, this rambling historic home with its over-the-top Art Nouveau décor and Victorian stained glass, also features expansive porches with ocean views to die for. Continuing a watery theme is the Carpe Diem Guesthouse & Spa, hosting rooms inspired by New England sea captains’ voyages to Asia. A fusion of refined nautical styles and elegant Asian accents, the guesthouse also boasts made-to-order breakfasts, wine and cheese mixer events and Provincetown’s best-rated spa, Namaste Spa.

Centrally located just one block from key Provincetown points of interest on Commercial Street meanwhile, is the vast Crowne Pointe Historic Inn, comprising of six restored Victorian buildings and a main mansion. Adults only for ultimate relaxation, hotel facilities include the exclusive Kiehl’s Shui Spa, fine-dining Pointe Restaurant, in-room fireplaces, and a small but lovely outdoor swimming pool. Across the street is the gay-owned and operated Brass Key Guesthouse, a luxury lodging with equally stunning grounds and an elegant yet laid-back atmosphere. Comprised of nine restored buildings, a terrace courtyard, spa and infinity pool, the Brass Key is also the happy proprietor of Provincetown’s trendiest little gay bar, the Shipwreck Lounge.

Another adults-only offering is the 8 Dyer Hotel, a tiny guesthouse tucked away on a quiet side street in a lively area of Provincetown. As well as complementary breakfasts and a brunch restaurant on-site, 8 Dyer is also outfitted with a pool, dry sauna and indoor Jacuzzi. Within the gallery district, close to all Provincetown points of interest, is The Waterford Inn, a guesthouse merging all the modern comforts with the considerable charm of 1850s sea captain’s mansion. Choose a room with a view of the harbour and surrounding historic landmarks.