Experience Provincetown’s Bradford Street Inclined Elevator

In a town rich with history and charm like Provincetown, the blending of innovation with heritage is always thoughtfully approached — and the Bradford Street Inclined Elevator is a perfect example of this spirit in action. Opened in April 2022, this modern amenity creates a seamless connection between the heart of downtown Provincetown and one of its most iconic landmarks: the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum.

I had the opportunity to experience the inclined elevator firsthand during a visit to the Pilgrim Monument and Museum. It was not only a convenient way to reach the summit of High Pole Hill, but also an experience that heightened the sense of arrival, offering stunning views over Provincetown Harbor.

A Historic Idea Brought into the 21st Century

Interestingly, the idea of a direct link up High Pole Hill is not new. Over a century ago, a temporary incline railway was built to help transport the granite stones that would become the Pilgrim Monument. Today, the Bradford Street Inclined Elevator fulfills that historic vision with a state-of-the-art, permanent solution — a thoughtful homage to the past while looking boldly toward the future.

Spanning roughly 162 feet in length and climbing 85 feet vertically, the inclined elevator’s smooth glass cab provides space for up to 18 passengers at a time. The ride itself is brief, just over a minute, but in that short journey, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the town's rooftops, MacMillan Wharf, and the open waters beyond.

Commitment to Accessibility and Building Community Connections

One of the most inspiring aspects of the Bradford Street Inclined Elevator is its focus on accessibility. It is fully ADA-compliant, ensuring that people of all mobility levels can easily visit the Pilgrim Monument and Museum. Newly added ADA-compliant parking spaces, along with well-designed ramps, make the journey inclusive from start to finish. In a town known for its welcoming spirit, this project raises the bar for how we think about accessibility in historic spaces.

The inclined elevator has done more than just make High Pole Hill easier to access — it has strengthened Provincetown’s vibrant downtown economy. By creating a direct link between commercial Bradford Street and one of the town’s major cultural attractions, local businesses benefit from increased foot traffic, and visitors are encouraged to explore more of what Provincetown has to offer.

Planning Your Visit

The Bradford Street Inclined Elevator operates during the regular business hours of the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum. Access to the elevator is included with a daily admission ticket, which can be purchased online or at the on-site kiosk.

As someone who took the elevator up to the Monument, I can personally attest to the convenience and enjoyment it adds to the overall visit. It transforms what could be a strenuous climb into an easy, scenic ride, allowing you to conserve your energy for exploring the museum’s fascinating exhibits and taking in the panoramic views from the monument itself.

For more information about the Bradford Street Inclined Elevator and to plan your visit, I encourage you to visit the Bradford Street Inclined Elevator fact page and Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum’s official website.