Hyannis is the Cape's "big city," one of seven villages that make up the town of Barnstable. It is the place to find larger stores, plus plenty of local shops, restaurants, music and theater.
Many visitors know Hyannis for its ties to the Kennedy family. The JFK Hyannis Museum and the Kennedy Memorial overlooking Lewis Bay are both worth a visit.
Hyannis Harbor is the main ferry port for Nantucket, with seasonal boats to Martha's Vineyard too, and harbor cruises leave throughout the day.