Especially for Kids in Barnstable and Hyannis

The top-of-the-line Hyannis Youth & Community Center at 141 Bassett Lane (tel. 508/790-6345) has an elevated walking track, an elaborate teen center, two skating rinks, and basketball courts. Day passes cost $5. The center is open 7am to 9pm daily (Fri and Sat until 10pm). Check the website for public skating times and special events. 

The Lightning Falls minigolf course, 455 W. Main St. (tel. 508/771-3194), is a nice diversion for young children or for the young at heart. A round costs $8 for adults, $7 for children. Open in season 10am to 11pm. Call for off-season hours.

About a mile north, off Route 132, the Cape Cod Potato Chips factory, 100 Breed's Hill Rd., at Independence Drive off Rte. 132, in Hyannis (tel. 508/775-7253), offers free 15-minute tours that end with a tasting. Tours are held in July and August, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Call for off-season hours.

On Wednesday mornings in summer, the Cape Cod Melody Tent, at the West End rotary (tel. 508/775-5630), offers children's theater productions. Tickets are $8.50 ($11 the day of performance) and can be ordered from Ticketmaster (tel. 800/745-3000).