📍 Location & Geography
Provincetown is a coastal town located at the extreme tip of Cape Cod in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. The town is surrounded by water on three sides, with Cape Cod Bay to the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and Provincetown Harbor to the south. Provincetown is known for its beaches, harbor, artists, and tourist industry.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Provincetown, Massachusetts are approximately 42.0584° N latitude and 70.1786° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Provincetown is part of the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts, which is located in the northeastern part of the United States. The town covers a total area of 17.5 square miles, of which 9.7 square miles is land and 7.8 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Provincetown was 2,642. The town has a diverse population with a significant LGBTQ+ community. The median age of the residents is 56.5 years.
🏛️ History
Provincetown was first settled by the Pilgrims in 1620, who signed the Mayflower Compact in Provincetown Harbor. The town was incorporated in 1727 and has a rich maritime history. In the 19th century, it became a bustling whaling and fishing center. In the 20th century, Provincetown became known as a bohemian mecca, attracting artists and writers, and later becoming a popular tourist destination and LGBTQ+ friendly community.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Provincetown is known for its beautiful beaches, dunes, and forests, which are part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. The town is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, whales, and numerous bird species. The Provincetown Harbor is a significant feature of the town, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
🏫 Education
Provincetown is served by the Provincetown Public School District, which includes Provincetown Schools, a combined elementary and high school. The town also houses the Provincetown Public Library, which offers a variety of resources and programs for residents and visitors.
🚧 Transportation
Provincetown is accessible by land, sea, and air. Route 6 is the main highway connecting the town to the rest of Cape Cod. The Provincetown Municipal Airport offers flights to and from Boston, while the Provincetown Fast Ferry provides service to Boston from the town’s MacMillan Pier. The town also has a public transportation system, the Provincetown Shuttle, which operates seasonally.
📜 Trivia & Events
Provincetown is known for its vibrant arts scene and hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Provincetown Film Festival and the Provincetown Tennessee Williams Theater Festival. The town is also home to the Pilgrim Monument, the tallest all-granite structure in the United States, which commemorates the Pilgrims’ first landing in the New World.