Provincetown as a 2013 Top Small Town Vacation Destination

It is with pride and joy that we announce the inclusion of Provincetown on Smithsonian.com's The 20 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2013 list!

With candidates ranging from the better-known (like Gettysburg, PA; St. Augustine, FL; Los Alamos, NM; and Jackson, WY) to the "Wait, what?  Where is that?" (like Baraboo, WI; Petoskey, MI; Lihue, HI; and Fairfield, IA), the list celebrates unique destinations with culture in the form of arts, history, economic growth, and character.  Each town on the list resides in a different state, meaning that less than half the US states are represented, and meaning that we are THE choice for Massachusetts.  In fact, only one other town on the Atlantic coast was chosen (St. Augustine)!

So why exactly were we selected?  Okay, so this is a dumb question for the locals and those who count P-Town as a regular destination... but  let's quote things like "radiantly beautiful," "The freest town in America" (quote from resident Norman Mailer), and mentions of our popularity for day-trippers, location of inspiration for Jack Kerouac, the Pilgrim monument, our history of being an artist refuge after WWI, and the fact that, yes, we are accepting and proud of it!

Seriously, can you imagine us NOT being on this list?

Smack dab in the middle of the countdown, we are thrilled to have been selected to receive this honor, and hope that all of our readers consider coming out to the cape for a visit!  Choose one of our in-season weekends featuring fun events and activities, or come out for the calm and beauty of the off-season.  The Distinctive Inns of Provincetown await your arrival!

The Innkeepers of The Distinctive Inns of Provincetown

Distinctive Inns of Provincetown Highlight: White Porch Inn

Since it opened in 2007, the White Porch Inn Art Hotel on Johnson Street has been a Provincetown destination for relaxation, fun, and enjoyment for their guests.  Recognition for the management team's efforts have come from a variety of online and magazine sources, and from guests themselves.  Charming rooms, delicious breakfasts, and friendly hospitality, and a truly relaxing environment bring people back again and again.

But what sets the White Porch Inn apart from some of our other member inns is the owner's love of contemporary and traditional art, and his ability to integrate it into the guest experience.  In 2013, this boutique hotel has taken things to the next level by transforming itself into an art inn with the introduction of the White Porch Gallery which now provides rotating In(n) Art installations from internationally known artists from the United States, and from around the world.

By presenting art as an everyday decoration in this relaxed environment, owner and curator Tom Shirk hopes to give his guests the opportunity to truly study and enjoy the pieces during their comings and goings at the Inn.  The art can be admired during breakfast, over a glass or two of wine in the living area... whenever the mood strikes.  Tom and his hosting team can even chat with you about a certain piece if you'd like to learn more.

And if a guest falls in love with a piece, then there is certainly the opportunity to take it home with them!  Most of the pieces on display can be purchased as a most unique souvenir of a great Cape Cod vacation!  The owner has even created a new Art Package so that guests can acquire several art pieces at once!

The new White Porch Gallery provides information on featured artists at the Inn.  For the Spring 2013 installment, the bold works of German artist Dietmar Brixy grace the Inn's walls.  Examples of his work can be found at the White Porch Gallery page above, and on the Inn's photo page.

Title: Beyond, Artist: Brixy,Oil on Canvas, 2013

 The White Porch Inn Art Hotel will soon be a part of the Miami Wynwood Arts District, the epicenter of the world's largest contemporary art show known as Art Basel and Art Miami.  The Inn is teaming up with R House Restaurant and Lounge to provide a Wynwood hot spot for delicious food, noteworthy art, and great music amidst what Forbes Magazine in September 2012 listed as one of the Top 20 Hipster Neighborhoods in the United States.  Check out the White Porch Gallery and R House Wynwood Facebook pages to see how the project is progressing!

In the meantime back in Provincetown, whether you simply wish to relax on the porch, mingle with guests while enjoying the art, we hope you consider staying at the White Porch Inn Art Hotel.   The contemporary art integrated with the Inn's clean design lines and calming decor provide a unique place for an enjoyable and memorable vacation.

Distinctive Inns of Provincetown Highlight: Carpe Diem Guesthouse and Spa

Perfect hospitality its about the people - Welcome to the Carpe Diem Guesthouse and Spa!

Whoever stays at Carpe Diem realizes right away what the secret of this luxurious yet cozy accommodation in the heart of Provincetown is: The people working at Carpe Diem enjoy what they are doing - that is making sure each guest feels special and welcomed, which explains why many come back year after year and soon feel more like friends than mere customers.

The property at 12 - 14 Johnson Street offers 19 rooms, each with first-class amenities and private bathrooms, some featuring fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Besides modern conveniences like free Wifi throughout all the buildings and sound machines in the guest rooms the management cherishes also traditional friendly gestures as a Port and sherry table in the living room, a 24-hour-coffee and tea station in the breakfast area and a very popular Happy Hour with distinctive wines and artisanal cheeses so that guests can socialize, make plans for the night or just enjoy some time together at the inn.

Overall, the complex with its tranquil patios and Zen-inspired gardens displays more the atmosphere of a cultivated and stimulating spa resort than an old fashioned B&B. All day guests have access to the adjacent Namaste Spa, which offers a variety of body treatments, massages, reflexology, aromatherapy, scrubs and wraps and includes a Turkish Bath, Finnish Sauna, and Spa Tub. On top of that Yoga and Pilates classes are offered daily in the large meditation room. All massages and body treatments can be booked through the reception of the inn either at a part of the room reservation (take note of the great deals in the spa packages) or during the guest’s stay.

Given its quiet and relaxing character, it is surprising that Carpe Diem is just a block away from the excitement of Commercial Street, allowing quick access to all the fun, while letting you get away from the bustle whenever you want.

Food aficionados will be happy to learn that a daily gourmet breakfast is included in the room price featuring freshly baked goods, muesli, cereals, fruit, yogurt, cold cuts, and- according to many guests - the best coffee in town. Also available each day is a “breakfast special”, which depending on the whims of the chef can be waffles, pancakes, quiche, or other hot delicacies. Don’t miss out on the eggs cooked to order. The Carpe Diem keeps around 90 chickens at the Carpe Diem Farm, to provide the inn with the necessary supply of absolutely fresh eggs. The farm is located only ten miles outside of town and from its vegetable garden come a good amount of the summertime produce and herbs used at the inn as well.

The property does feature off-street parking, a scarcity in P-Town (please limit one car per room - no trucks or large vehicles)!  Bike storage is also offered - remember biking is a great way to get around town.

To preserve the tranquility and cleanliness of the inn, smoking and pets are NOT allowed. If your four-legged friend does need to join you on your vacation, local boarding is available at KC's Animal Resort just a mile from the Resort.

For a truly relaxing and sensual visit, consider the Carpe Diem Guesthouse and Spa and enjoy first-class amenities, a legendary breakfast made fresh each day, access to great spa treatments, and Provincetown hospitality at its best!

Save the Dates: 2013 Provincetown Events and Activities

Although 2013 has just begun, rooms are already filling quickly for Provincetown's biggest and most popular events.  In these cases, making plans early is not only a good idea, we highly recommend it!  To make your event getaway easier to plan, we have compiled a list of event dates here in one place so that you can easily pick your favorites and arrange lodging at your favorite bed and breakfast.

April

• 12-14: Cabaret Fest
  We touched on this one last month... Cabaret Fest celebrates this sometimes over-the-top, but always unforgettable, style of entertainment.

May

• 17-19: Single Women's Weekend
  The best way for girls to meet girls - single ladies only need apply!

June

• 19-23: Provincetown International Film Festival
  A quality festival in an amazing town, this event is loved by film-makers, actors, and movie buffs from all over the country.

July

• 1-7: Independence Week and Summer Camp/Circuit Week
  The boys take over P-Town this week, featuring events and socialization options that the men will love.
• 13-21: Bear Week
  The manly men come back for a visit this week with a full activity schedule for a true, relaxing vacation.
• 22-27: Whale Week
  A family-friendly celebration of the ocean, its inhabitants, and its ecosystems.
• 23-27: Girl Splash
  Women take over the town again for numerous activities. Meet new friends, enjoy a relaxing getaway, and maybe meet that special someone!

August

• 3-10: Family Pride Week
  For LGBT families with children of all ages, this gathering celebrates familial diversity.
• 17-19: Provincetown Jazz Festival
  Jazz musicians and singers from all over the country, and the world, gather.  If you can't make it to New Orleans, then come to Provincetown during this weekend for some spectacular performances.
• 18-24: Carnival Week
  Again, if you couldn't make it to the Big Easy before Lent, come on out to the Cape this summer for our version of this notorious festival with a variety of events.

September

• 9-15: Afterglow Festival
  Stage performances at their best by more than a dozen performers.  Visit for a wide variety of artistic talents including music, comedy, drama, and more!
• 26-29: Tennessee Williams Theater Festival
  Honoring this celebrated playwright through music and performances.

October

• 3-6: Mates Leather Weekend
  Always exciting, this event for men and women alike celebrates leather and ink.
• 14-20: Women's Week
  A true vacation opportunity for the girls, this event features performances, shopping, socializing, and just enjoying time away at a relaxing pace.
• 20-27: Fantasia Fair
  A true transgender event featuring entertainment, workshops, and social opportunities.
• October 25-November 3: Halloween Week
  Ghosts and ghouls walk the streets, heading to one event after another.

November

• 8-10: Men's Weekend
  Say goodbye to summer at this weekend geared towards the men, no matter what their relationship status.

December

• 6-8: Holly Folly
  Welcome the Holiday Season with shopping, light displays, and more.
• 31: New Year's Eve
  What better place is there to celebrate life and a new year?  There are so many gatherings to choose from!

No matter which events you decide to attend, innkeepers of the Distinctive Inns of Provincetown offer true New England hospitality, cozy rooms, and all the amenities you'd find in a  regular hotel, and then some!  Enjoy the personalized service, friendly faces, and hosts that welcome you like family.  Make your reservations today!

Provincetown Events: Spring 2013 Fun on Cape Cod

Spring is just around the corner, and along with it comes the start of annual events here on the Cape!  Taking a break from our member inn highlights, the Distinctive Inns of Provincetown invite you to enjoy first-rate accommodations and amenities during any of these upcoming spring celebrations.  Book your reservations now for these, and other great events happening during the upcoming 2012 season (stay tuned for additional dates in future posts)!

March 9, 2013:  Year Rounders' Festival
It started more than 20 years ago as a break from winter monotony. Created specifically for locals who have stuck out the long winter, this local event is a great way for adventurous visitors who have braved the elements for a mid-winter visit to spend some time as well.  Featuring entertainment, food, and booths featuring both information and sales items, this gathering is a great way to learn about what our town is REALLY about:  family, fun, and community.

March 15-17, 2013:  Out of Hibernation
Just as it sounds, the Bears are returning after their long winter's nap - just in time for St. Patrick's Day.  While there is no official list of activities yet, the Northeast Ursamen who host the event guarantee a good time!

April 1, 2013:  The Pilgrim Monument reopens
This year, the Monument will debut the new Gallery where the first exhibition features marine-related art and artifacts.  Once the fleet is blessed, Spring officially begins (as far as we are concerned)!

April 12-14, 2013:  Cabaret Fest
Once again, P-Town plays host to the live music and entertainment.  This year's festival features vocalists Dane Vannatter, Lynda D'Amour, Jan Peters, Jessica Curran, Brian De Lorenzo.  They are joined by pianist John Murelle, songwriter Bob Levy, pianist Fred Boyle, bassist Laird Boles, and drummer Bart Weisman.  Tickets are available now for any and all of the three-days' of activities.

April 13-14, 2013: Miss Gay Massachusetts and New England US of A
Once again, The Crown & Anchor plays host to the beautiful ladies competing for this coveted title.  The honor goes to the contestant scoring highest in the areas of talent, interview, and evening gown.

When you stay at one of our gorgeous and welcoming bed and breakfasts, you will be treated to the finest hospitality available in the area.  Whether you come for the above events, or just want to enjoy a great east-coast vacation, you just can't beat a stay at our gorgeous and historic inns.  Featuring classic New England decor, establishment features unique themes and details.  Of course, you can count on morning sustenance to prepare you for your day!  So come on out to Provincetown this spring to either discover what our town has to offer, or re-discover why you'll never want to leave!

Distinctive Inns of Provincetown Highlight: Benchmark Inn

The Distinctive Inns of Provincetown proudly highlight the Benchmark Inn.

Located a little away from the main drag, the Benchmark is located on Dyer Street, a mere half-block from the excitement of Commercial Street's gallery district.  Here, you can enjoy the quiet serenity of the inn's clean lines, relaxed gatherings on the porch and decks, and the beautiful grounds and garden.

Six smartly-appointed guestrooms and one "penthouse" featuring bedroom, sitting area, and private porch await your stay.  Each room features a fireplace for those crisper nights and days (or for romance), a wet bar and coffeemaker for guests' convenience, and an external entrance for both privacy and convenience to the decks.  Each room's view sets a different mood for your stay, from 180-degree panoramas to the pleasant scenery of the gardens or the traditional homes of the Cape.  Pets are even permitted in some of the rooms, so you can bring your four-footed friend along with you!

While the residence has been an inn for more than 20 years, it took until 2011 before delightful imports Dan and Daniel took over.  After a chance visit, the hosts fell in love with our amazing town.  And when the stars aligned, they jumped at the chance to move to the area and become innkeepers. 

Holding tight to their European roots, these hosts speak four languages fluently, including German, Swiss-German, French, and (of course) English.  Breakfast treats that accompany a traditional Continental Breakfast often include items like freshly baked Berner Ankezüpfe (Swiss Sunday bread), banana bread and muffins, puff-pastries, oat and nut muffins, flavored croissants (almond-apricot, chocolate, and more), nut breads, and even homemade jams at times... you never know what will emerge from the kitchen when you wake up!

You can even arrange those little extras to make your stay perfect.  From flowers, to wine, and more, the hosts can help fulfill most wishes.  Just ask!

Dan and Daniel are dedicated to your comfort, relaxation, and want to make sure that you have a pleasant and unforgettable visit to the Cape.  So why not consider reservations at the Benchmark Inn and experience European-American hospitality at its best!

Distinctive Inns of Provincetown Highlight: The Revere Guest House

Further highlighting our members, the Distinctive Inns of Provincetown presents to you the Revere Guest House bed and breakfast.

Just a half block from the hustle and bustle of busy Commercial Street is the modest Colonial house where Innkeeper Gary Albert Palochko welcomes you to get away from it all at his award-winning inn.  Named in honor of Gary's grandfather, Albert LaRivere, the Inn offers six beautifully appointed guest rooms, all with private bath, plus a one-bedroom apartment with private entrance and fireplace, and a large two-room suite with a fireplace.  The home's atmosphere is light and airy with plenty of windows and is beautifully appointed with antiques from all over the world.  Four rooms feature fireplaces for those colder-month visits, and two have whirlpool tubs: a perfect way to wind down before bed.  The Revere House also features a large roof-deck on the third level with amazing views of the town and Cape Cod Bay.

Just because the Revere House isn't on the main drag of Commercial Street, you are still close to all the excitement Provincetown has to offer.  A very short walk down to the corner of the block will put you on Commercial Street just across from a public beach and right in front of some of the best restaurants in town..  From there, it's up to you!

When you visit, you will be treated to welcoming amenities including use of one of the largest breakfast rooms an Inn has to offer, beautiful private gardens, an outdoor Jacuzzi hot tub, DVD collection, complementary Internet, in-room iPOD stands, and much, much more.  Of course, a tasty extended continental breakfast with homemade baked goodies and a large assortment of exotic teas is included on each morning of your stay.  The Revere House also partners with Jonathan Williams Salon and Spa which offers discounted services for Revere Guest House guests.

While the actual age of this home is unknown, maps from as early as 1830 show that it existed here in P-Town.  For a long time, not much was known about this home's history.  But that all changed when Gary did some renovation work.  We won't get into the details, but let's just say that some small treasures were found, proof of an early owner was verified, and the source of the flowers growing outside (but nowhere else in town) was discovered.  To learn the whole story, check out this episode of HGTV's If Walls Could Talk, Hidden Treasures Abound, which featured the Inn in June, 2007!

Revere House also features seasonal specials throughout the year, so be sure to check and see what is being offered when planning your visit!

So make plans now for your getaway to scenic Provincetown on the tip of Cape Cod and consider lodging at the Revere Guest House.

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Monkey Bread, in all its ooey- gooey deliciousness, continues to be a favorite of Revere House guests!  This sticky-bun treat can be found here on most mornings.  While there are many recipes out there, we have found none exactly like theirs - give it a try!


Revere House Monkey Bread

2 cups pecans, chopped
1/2 cup butter (1 stick, or 8 Tablespoons)
1 cup brown sugar
2 Tablespoons water
2 cans flaky biscuits

• Grease bundt pan and sprinkle 1-1/2 cups of the pecans into the bottom.
• In a small saucepan, melt butter and add sugar, water and remaining pecans.  Set aside.
• Cut each biscuit into quarters and form each quarter into a ball (making 40 balls).
• Place 20 biscuit balls in the bottom of the pan.
• Drizzle balls with half of the melted mixture.
• Place the remaining 20 balls in the pan and top with remaining mixture.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes.

Servings: 10 to 12.