Choose Granite Countertops Near Me Chatham, MA for Elegance and Durability

Two centuries of foot traffic and salt air have worn the cobblestones down the middle of Nantucket's Main Street smooth. Whaling merchants once counted their money along that stretch; a few blocks of Newburyport went up in brick after fire took the wooden waterfront in 1811; granite crews in Rockport cut the stone that paved half of Boston. These are the working downtowns that grew up around wharves, mills, and rail depots, and people still shop, eat, and gather on them rather than tour them behind a rope line. The eight main streets below reward an afternoon spent on foot. Each one still sits at the center of its town.

More In Mass.These 8 small towns are known for their unmatched friendliness and welcoming communities.

Chatham

English settlers began buying land here from the Monomoyick around 1656, and the community that became Chatham grew up on farming and fishing, with its commerce along what is now Main Street. The town has since become one of Cape Cod's most popular destinations, though the maritime character survives downtown in the preserved storefronts and nautical detailing.

Boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and landmarks sit close together along a walkable stretch of Main Street. Shoppers have picked up nautical home decor and Cape Cod gifts at the Mayflower Shop for decades, and the Chatham Squire is a reliable stop for fresh seafood and a casual meal. The Chatham Orpheum Theater opened in 1916; it went dark for years before an extensive restoration brought it back in 2013, and films play there again today. Just past the southern end of Main Street, Chatham Lighthouse has stood since 1808, and the Coast Guard runs free summer tours from the grounds, with wide views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Concord

A 17th-century grist mill once turned near Concord's Main Street, surrounded by blacksmiths, hatmakers, and tanneries. By the 19th century, the Concord Mill Dam Company had reshaped the downtown, putting up new buildings and selling lots along Main Street. Many of those buildings still stand, filled now with the restaurants, shops, and small businesses that hold the street at the center of town.

Booksellers at the Concord Bookshop have stocked classics and work by local authors since 1940. A short walk down the street, the staff at Main Streets Market & Cafe pour fresh coffee and cook all three meals, the menu running through burgers and seafood. For something sweeter, the chocolatiers at Gräem Nuts and Chocolate make handcrafted chocolate bark, roasted nut mixes, and dried fruit. Boutiques round out the stretch, among them Happy on Main, with its seasonal jewelry and shoes.

Great Barrington

Great Barrington was settled in 1726 and began as a manufacturing town before the Berkshire Railroad made it a trade center. A major fire tore through Railroad Street, which branches off Main Street, in 1896, and other blazes hit the district around the same time. Builders rebuilt the commercial blocks that burned, and the downtown became a busy Berkshire destination.

Shops, cafes, and restaurants line a walkable spread of Main Street, and the town's calendar reaches beyond the storefronts. Organizers of the Berkshire International Film Festival bring filmmakers and audiences downtown each spring. Fuel Coffee makes a good first stop for a latte before a browse through the shelves at Yellow House Books or the cheese and charcuterie counter at Rubiner's Cheesemongers. For dinner, the kitchen at The Prairie Whale plates seasonal dishes built around locally sourced ingredients.

Hudson

Shoe factories made Hudson. Known first as Feltonville, the town grew into one of Massachusetts' major shoe-manufacturing centers by the mid-1800s, later branching into textile and box factories. Factory jobs and the railroad brought workers to town, and the housing and the commercial spine of Main Street followed. Many of the 19th-century brick buildings still stand, home now to restaurants, breweries, cafes, and boutiques.

These days the draw is food and drink. The Vintage Cafe is the spot for breakfast and coffee, and cooks at The Rail Trail Flatbread Co. turn out handcrafted pizzas later in the day. Medusa Tap Room & Kitchen stays open into the evening, with craft beers and a menu of appetizers, sandwiches, and tacos. The shops hold their own too, among them Islay's Terrace Studio & Shop, where local artisans supply the gifts and home decor.

Nantucket

During the 18th and 19th centuries, whalers and merchants knew Nantucket as the "Whaling Capital of the World." As the industry boomed, cobblestone streets and Federal-style buildings filled in around the harbor, and Main Street served as the commercial center for sailors, merchants, and ship owners. The whaling trade eventually fell away, and the town rebuilt its downtown for visitors while keeping the historic bones.

Locally owned shops, galleries, and eateries sit along that cobblestone stretch in the salt breeze. Mitchell's Book Corner is a longtime favorite, with a deep book selection alongside signings and events. At Four Winds Craft Guild, island artisans show handmade jewelry, pottery, baskets, and artwork, while the weavers at Nantucket Looms specialize in handwoven throws and gifts. Between stops, locals head to Lemon Press for coffee, smoothies, Persian dishes, and cocktails.

Newburyport

Settled in the 1630s, Newburyport grew into a major fishing and trading port on the Merrimack River, with its downtown clustered around State Street and Market Square. The Great Fire of 1811 leveled much of that district, and builders rebuilt it in the brick that still lines the streets. A renewal push in the 1970s remade the historic center into the shopping and dining destination it is now.

Follow State Street toward Market Square and you pass cafes, restaurants, bars, boutiques, and river views, all set against brick sidewalks and well-kept storefronts. The Coffee Factory is a popular stop for sandwiches and locally roasted coffee before a browse through nearby shops like Soak & Shoreline, with its seasonal goods, bath and beauty products, and loungewear. At Brine Oysters, Crudo, and Chops the kitchen leans on the seaside heritage with fresh seafood, and the bartenders at Bar25 NBPT mix cocktails a few steps from the water.

Provincetown

Commercial Street grew up along Cape Cod Harbor as Provincetown took shape as a fishing and maritime community. In the early years, fishermen used the side streets branching off it as landing spots to unload the daily catch. As the town spread, Commercial Street became its main artery and arts hub, and it now runs past historic buildings, galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Commercial Street stays busy year-round, and events like the Provincetown Book Festival and the Canteen Holiday Market pull in locals and visitors alike. The galleries mark the town's standing as an arts destination, among them the Julie Tremblay Gallery, with its range of paintings, sculpture, and photography. At The Shell Shop, the seaside roots show in a huge collection of shells and coastal souvenirs. On the water, the bartenders at the Aqua Bar keep a long list of cocktails, beers, and wines, while the cooks at The Squealing Pig plate wings, calamari, fish and chips, sandwiches, and other pub standards.

Rockport

Shipbuilding, fishing, and granite quarrying built Rockport, and those industries shaped the town's economy for generations. Main Street took hold as the heart of downtown and now forms part of the Rockport Downtown Main Street Historic District, its preserved buildings standing alongside an active arts and cultural scene.

Galleries, studios, and performance venues line the street, and the creative pull is no accident. Cape Ann's coastal light and harbor views have drawn painters for generations, part of what made Rockport one of the state's best-known art colonies. Curators at the Rockport Art Association & Museum rotate exhibitions by regional artists, and the Shalin Liu Performance Center puts concerts on stage with the Atlantic behind the players. Feather & Wedge suits an upscale dinner before a show, and next door the counter at Robin's Nest scoops fresh gelato for a wander through the galleries.

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Where Massachusetts History Meets Main Street

What ties these eight streets together is that people still use them. A visit might mean coffee and a bookstore one afternoon and a waterfront dinner or a live concert the next, and the mix shifts with the seasons as festivals and holiday markets fill the sidewalks. The whaling money, the shoe factories, and the granite quarries are gone, but the downtowns that money built are still working downtowns, which is what makes an afternoon on any of them worth the walk.

CHATHAM, MASS. (WHDH) - Residents living on Cape Cod said they are not overly concerned about flooding when the impending nor’easter hits, but are preparing for high winds and potential power outages in the region.

On Friday afternoon, the wind was seen blowing hard enough at the United States Coast Guard Station in Chatham to gently rock vehicles parked there, as people gathered at an overlook to take in the storm scene at Lighthouse Beach below.

“The closer you get to the water, the windier and more freezing it gets,” said Gabriel Spence, who is visiting Cape Cod from New York.

“The ocean has been churning up for the last, like, three days. Twenty-plus mile-per-hour constant winds, so it already has a running start,” said Mike Quinn, a resident.

— Residents on Martha’s Vineyard prepare for nor’easter —

Cape officials are watching for both power outages and minor coastal flooding. In Sandwich, where they have been fighting beach eroision for years, they will be keeping a close eye on the slow-moving storm system.

“The duration and the continuous, sort of, effort and battering of the wind, the pressure of the water, the high tides, those are things that we are the most concerned about,” said Heather Harper, Sandwich Assistant Town Manager.

An astronomical high tide has residents putting away umbrellas, lawn furniture, bird feeders, and other outdoor items that may be tossed around by the wind. However, many people said they are taking this one in stride.

“I think we are ready. People on Cape Cod are used to these kind of storms. They come and go, but hopefully it doesn’t get too bad,” said Steve Garvin, a Sandwich native.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory for the region this weekend.

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The Right Angle

Chatham, Massachusetts is a town located at the “elbow” of Cape Cod. A resort town with a population of about 6,600 residents, the population swells to over 25,000 during the summer.

Teams representing the town of Chatham have played in the Cape League since its inception in 1923. The site of Veteran’s Field was the location of Chatham’s first high school, which was built in 1858. When a new consolidated school was built in 1924, it paved the way for the construction of the ball field.

Chatham’s squad was known as the A’s from 1960s to 2009, when several teams decided to stop sharing names with Major League squads. The team was rebranded as the Anglers. This allows for the team to continue to be informally called “The A’s,” while invoking a most appropriate nautical theme. The A’s/Anglers have won five titles in the Cape League’s “Modern Era”, most recently in 1998. Over 100 A’s/Anglers alumni have gone on to play in the Major Leagues.

The Snack Shack serves as Veteran’s Field’s snack bar. Located directly behind the first base dugout, standard ballpark fare, including hot dogs, burgers and pizza slices are featured here. Fans wanting their hot dog with a little more oomph can upgrade to Coach Schiffner’s famous Chili Dog. There’s a decent variety of snacks available here, including popcorn served in a souvenir Anglers cup, Cracker Jacks, assorted candy, Cape Cod Chips (of course) and Angler’s cookies decorated with a baseball theme. A selection of ice cream novelties are available.

Cans of Coca-Cola products are featured at Veteran’s Field. Since it can get very chilly here in Chatham at night, fans can also purchase coffee, tea or hot chocolate.

Chatham doesn’t feature the most extensive menu around, and their prices are a bit on the high side when compared to other Cape League ballparks. On the plus side, they grill their dogs and burgers to order. Fans looking for a bargain can wait until near the end of the game, when “dollar dogs” are announced. But be warned, quantities are limited, so be ready!

As is the case at all the Cape Cod League venues, teams in this league present their games in an “old-school” manner. Absent are silly between inning promotions and ear-shattering music played between innings. Fans looking for elaborate game-day productions will undoubtedly be disappointed with this simple approach, but baseball purists will enjoy every last second of it. PA announcements are limited to lineup changes and sponsor shout outs, and a simple scoreboard in left field displays basic game information.

There is a lot of room to roam at Veteran’s Field, both in the large berm that stretches from the right field foul pole to deep centerfield as well as the open grassy area on the first base side of the facility. There is a large playground located in this area, where kids can release some pent-up energy while their parents can still watch the ballgame.

Veteran’s Field is located just west of Chatham Center, a quaint neighborhood full of shops, cafés, and antique stores. Main Street is located a short walk from the ball field, and is a great spot to spend an afternoon before an Anglers game. Remember, a town this small and this popular is bound to get crowded, so if you are wishing to avoid the largest crowds and resulting traffic, visit the area in June, before schools let out for the summer and the tourists arrive en masse.

If you’re visiting Chatham and looking for a place to eat, you’ll have no problem finding a place. Among the choices here are Chatham Squire, Wild Goose Tavern, and Captain’s Table. Of course, seafood rules in a coastal town like Chatham, but there is something for everyone along Main Street. Likewise, there are plenty of lodging options here in town, but be prepared to pay premium prices during the baseball season. Chatham Tides, Chatham Wayside Inn and Greyfinch Chatham Inn are just some of the choices right in town.

During the summer, the Cape Cod Rail Trail, the Chatham Lighthouse, the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge and The Chatham Railroad Museum (located just beyond the right field berm) are all popular destinations located within town limits. Other Cape Cod attractions are just a short drive away.

Chatham annually ranks at or near the top of the Cape League attendance rolls. Recent years have seen average crowds numbering over 2,000 per game. Tales are still told of the day the 1984 USA Olympic baseball team visited Chatham for a game against the A’s, with an estimated crowd of 10,000 in attendance.

Crowds at Veteran’s Field are similar to those elsewhere on the Cape, meaning that there is a strong presence from the locals, who often have a connection with the team as a booster, house parent, or volunteer. If not connected with the team officially, many of the fans present have been coming to see the Anglers play for years. Mixed in with the locals are tourists visiting the area and spending a relaxing night out at the ballpark. As one of the most complete “ballparks” in the Cape League, it’s a popular destination for ballpark travelers.

The town of Chatham is located at the elbow of Cape Cod, making it the furthest team to visit for any fans visiting from off-Cape (that’s anyone not living on Cape Cod, for those of us who don’t speak Cape-ese). Despite this, it’s relatively easy to find Veteran’s Field. It is located right on Route 28, which follows the southern coastline of the Cape. Fans utilizing public transportation can take Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority’s H20 bus route to a stop right at the Chatham Rotary.

Veteran’s Field itself is located in a natural bowl, with hills surrounding the playing surface. A grandstand behind home plate contains bleacher seating, along with plenty of room for standing room at the top and bottom of these stands. Additional bleachers are located down both foul lines. Netting obstructs views from all seating areas.

For many fans, the large outfield berm is the place to be. There is enough room out here for hundreds of fans on a busy night, or for kids to run around when it is less crowded. You will find many fans sitting on top of the berm along the Depot Road sidewalk or even in their vehicles, listening to the game on their radios.

Parking is available in a pair of small public lots adjacent to the ballpark or on the surrounding streets. This is most convenient for fans looking to spend their entire day in Chatham, as Main Street is a short walk from the ball field. Restrooms are located in a small building on the first base side of the facility. Be warned that not all areas surrounding Veterans Field are well lit or paved.

As is the case at all Cape Cod League ballparks, there is no charge to attend a Chatham Anglers game. The team will accept your donation, which they use to fund their operating costs. In return for your donation, the team will return the favor by giving you a program.

Parking is free in either of the two lots next to the field, or on any of the neighborhood streets. Just pay attention to the signs to make sure you are not in a restricted zone. Many fans bring their own coolers stocked with items to enjoy during the game, making a night out at the Anglers potentially free.

Displayed on the façade of the old-timey press box are four retired numbers for persons who were instrumental in the long history of Chatham baseball (John Schiffner, Ed Haird, Matt Fincher and Eddie Lyons).

Also be sure to check out the display of every Chatham A/Angler to play in the big leagues. It’s an enormous list with plenty of familiar names. A small plaque dedicated to former Chatham player Thurman Munson can also be found on the press box.

In 2025 over 400 Cape Cod alumni played in the Major Leagues. This factors out to one out of every six players to suit up in the majors last year. The Cape Cod League is without a doubt the premier summer collegiate league in the country. All ten teams in the circuit are located within an hour of each other, meaning you can spend a week seeing future Major Leaguers compete up close for free in one of the top tourist destinations in the nation. It’s an epic Stadium Journey.

A day in Chatham combines all the elements of a classic Cape Cod experience – nearby beaches, a quaint downtown with shops and excellent restaurants, and a nighttime ball game with virtually the entire town on hand. In a league full of unique parks and postcard-perfect towns, Chatham offers an experience that may top them all.

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CHATHAM, Mass. — A Cape Cod fisherman and his family got an up-close encounter with a pod of humpback whales that they say they will never forget.

Viktor Tuleika was tuna fishing off Chatham on Wednesday with his family when they spotted a pod of humpback whales in the distance. Tuleika said they stopped about a quarter mile away from the animals and began setting up their fishing rods.

But the whales soon came much closer than expected.

Cell phone video recorded by Tuleika shows the whales surfacing near the boat as his family reacts in amazement.

“This is better than tuna. They’re kissing our boat, guys. There is another one. Oh my goodness. Holy macaroni,” Tuleika is heard saying during the encounter.

One of the whales then appeared to bump the boat, creating a dramatic moment that was captured on camera.

Tuleika said he only had seconds to react and described it as a ‘kiss.’

“I had a couple of seconds. I pulled the phone and I see this huge, amazing animal... heading towards the boat. I was actually trying to yell at him, like getaway. And he ended up pushing the boat or bumping into the boat. But he pushed the boat like a feather, you know.”

Despite spending years fishing in waters where whales are a common sight, Tuleika said nothing prepared him for an encounter like this.

“Can’t really describe it. Words can’t really describe it. You have to feel it.”

Tuleika was fishing with his family, including his 11-year-old son. He hopes it will be a memory they carry with them for the rest of their lives.

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The seaside community of Chatham, Massachusetts is getting into the holiday spirit a bit early this year, as it is among the finalists to become “Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Town” for 2026.

The Cape Cod town is among 25 communities across the country that hope to take home the title and the possibility of becoming a filming location for an upcoming Hallmark movie.

Per the rules, applicants had to submit an application, photos and a letter showcasing "the location’s holiday traditions and community celebrations, demonstrate the location’s embodiment of the spirit of Hallmark Christmas, describe why your location deserves to be recognized as Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Town, or information about the location’s history, character and/or resilience."

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The top 25 finalists will be judged on the following criteria:

READ MORE: Massachusetts and Rhode Island's Most Hallmark-Like Locations

Here is what the town submitted:

"Few places capture the magic of Christmas quite like Chatham, Massachusetts. Throughout the holiday season, our charming Cape Cod town comes alive with beautifully decorated storefronts, festive events, local shopping, the beloved Christmas by the Sea Stroll, and a warm sense of community that welcomes visitors year after year. Every corner of town embraces the season, creating an unforgettable New England Christmas experience."

"At the heart of the celebration is Chatham Bars Inn, where one of the resort's most cherished traditions takes place overnight on Thanksgiving. Beginning at midnight, more than 50 dedicated employees, affectionately known as our elves, work through the night to transform the entire property. By 7:00 a.m., guests wake to discover that the Inn has magically become a winter wonderland.

The transformation includes 10 beautifully decorated Christmas trees ranging from 7 to 12 feet tall, each with its own unique theme, from Coastal Christmas to Old World and The Giving Tree. The historic Main Inn is adorned with 75 illuminated wreaths, more than 150 handmade bows, 80 light poles wrapped in fragrant balsam garland and 45,000 twinkling lights stretching nearly four miles across the property. Guests are welcomed by towering nutcrackers, a century old Santa chair and sleigh, a North Pole mailbox for children's letters to Santa and a whimsical Vermont Teddy Bear Holiday Room where more than 100 teddy bears create delightful holiday scenes."

"Beyond the decorations, the Inn offers countless festive experiences that bring families together. Guests can enjoy wreath decorating workshops, gingerbread house decorating, Santa's Workshops, holiday mixology classes, wine tastings, Teddy Bear Tea Parties, Christmas Storytime, Carolers & Cocoa, Elf Storybook & Cookie Deliveries, live winter music and beautifully decorated guest rooms. Each season, hundreds of guests participate in our wreath making workshops alone, creating lasting memories and treasured traditions.

Together, the Town of Chatham and Chatham Bars Inn create something truly extraordinary. It's more than festive decor or holiday activities. It's a place where community, tradition and genuine hospitality come together to create lifelong memories. Whether strolling through Chatham's charming downtown or waking to the surprise of an overnight holiday transformation at Chatham Bars Inn, visitors experience the wonder of Christmas in a way that can only be found here.

For these reasons, we are proud to submit Chatham, Massachusetts, as the Merriest Christmas Town."

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