📍 Location & Geography
East Orleans is a charming village located in the town of Orleans, in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. It is situated on the southeastern corner of Cape Cod, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and Pleasant Bay on the west. The village covers a total area of 14.1 square miles, with 3.9 square miles of it being water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of East Orleans, Massachusetts are approximately 41.78 degrees North latitude and 69.96 degrees West longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
East Orleans is part of the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts, known for its beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, and quaint New England charm. The village itself is located in the town of Orleans, which is in Barnstable County. The area is largely residential, featuring a mix of year-round homes and vacation properties.
👥 Population & Demographics
As East Orleans is a village within the town of Orleans, it does not have its own separate population count. However, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town of Orleans had a population of approximately 5,890 as of 2019. The demographic makeup is predominantly white, with a significant percentage of the population being retirees, reflecting the area’s popularity as a retirement destination.
🏛️ History
East Orleans, like much of Cape Cod, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Nauset tribe, a Native American tribe of the Algonquin nation. European settlers arrived in the 1600s, and the town of Orleans was incorporated in 1797. East Orleans grew as a fishing and whaling community, and later became a popular summer resort destination in the 19th and 20th centuries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
East Orleans is known for its stunning natural beauty. The village boasts several beautiful beaches including Nauset Beach, one of Cape Cod’s most popular. The area is also home to a number of wildlife habitats and conservation areas, such as the Kent’s Point Conservation Area. The village’s location on the Cape provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and bird watching, among other outdoor activities.
🏫 Education
Education in East Orleans is provided by the Nauset Regional School District, which serves the towns of Brewster, Eastham, Orleans, and Wellfleet. The district includes Nauset Regional High School, Nauset Regional Middle School, and Orleans Elementary School. There are also private school options in the surrounding area.
🚧 Transportation
Transportation in East Orleans is primarily by car, with Route 28 serving as the main thoroughfare through the village. The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority provides public bus service in the area. The nearest airport is Barnstable Municipal Airport, located in Hyannis, approximately 27 miles away.
📜 Trivia & Events
East Orleans is home to the Academy Playhouse, a well-known community theater that offers a variety of performances throughout the year. The village also hosts several events and festivals, including the annual Orleans Farmers Market and the Orleans Pond Coalition’s Celebrate Our Waters festival. The Nauset Lighthouse, a notable local landmark, offers tours during the summer months.