I love Provincetown!  (Cape Cod, MA)    I started going to the Cape from time to time when I was a kid and fell in love with Provincetown when I went there for my honeymoon in 1974. Affectionately known as P-town, this coastal resort town, located at the very tip of the ‘hook’ in Massachusetts, transforms each summer into a busy, fun, welcoming, and arty community.

For the past several years, two of my sons and my son-in-law run the Ragnar Relay, that starts in Hull, MA on Friday morning and ends 200 miles later in Provincetown on Saturday afternoon. My daughter-in-law, grandchildren and I join the Ragnar festivities and then we all have a quieter Mother’s Day celebration.

The beauty of coming off season allows us to enjoy the Provincetown experience without the crowds. Most shops and restaurants are open and there’s plenty of opportunity to easily get a table at your favorite restaurant or wander casually through the varied shops.

This time I rented a great condo in the West End with my son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, but my favorite place to stay is the 8 Dyer Hotel, a wonderful 7 room, adults only hotel. If you are looking for a place to unwind or for a romantic get-away, this is the place. Their included breakfast is amazing. My son, son-in-law, and rest of their Ragnar team stayed there as usual. I’m jealous!

The owners also own a great restaurant that’s a combination breakfast place and tacqueria called Yolqueria. The food is excellent.

There’s no shortage of terrific restaurants in Provincetown. One of my other favorites is Ciro and Sal’s, which is has wonderful Italian Food. I went there for the first time in 1974 and have never been disappointed. If you’re looking for traditional seafood and Portuguese fare, try the Lobster Pot. They also have lots of gluten free options, if you must eat gluten free like me.

Among the many casual dining options with gluten free selections is Bubala’s by the Bay. If it’s nice, sit out on the patio. After the Ragnar race, the runners of my family’s team head to Big Daddy’s Burritos in the Aquarium Marketplace Food Court. They serve great burritos and tacos, and accommodate gluten free diners.

While you are in the Aquarium Marketplace, check out the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Store where you can purchase merchandise supporting the HRC mission. Provincetown is known for its celebration of gay and lesbian culture and is a vacation destination for many LGBTQ individuals.

When I’m in Provincetown, I tend to go for long walks, fueled in part by fudge from the Provincetown Fudge Factory and the occasional bowl of ice cream. Once you get out of the commercial area, there are lots of places to walk on the beach or sit and watch the water. You’ll need a sweater because the ocean winds are cool.

In the spring, there are tulips everywhere and fun things to look at. This is one of my favorite yards to walk by. Many of the properties have fun artwork and colorful accents.

Next time you are looking for a low-key place to travel with friends, family, or just by yourself, think about Provincetown off season. Plus, it’s a great place to spend Mother’s Day.