From picturesque shorelines to delicious food, the “Gray Lady” is a bucket list destination for a memorable vacation. Read this guide to plan your perfect trip to Nantucket. It contains many helpful links, so save it for future reference!
Family Fun Favorites!
A highly recommended activity, especially when in Nantucket for the first time, is visiting the iconic Whaling Museum. The building itself has a fascinating and extensive history. It was built in 1846 and originally utilized as an oil and candle factory. Sadly, the Great Fire burned it down within a year, and it was rebuilt as a whaling warehouse. It converted to a whaling artifacts antique shop after its last whale ship sailed in 1869. The building was later acquired in 1929 by the Nantucket Historical Association.
The museum was re-accredited in 2007 and numerous artifact collections and exhibitions have been added. One of the most popular exhibitions is the Tragedy of the Essex, which Herman Melville drew inspiration from while writing “Moby-Dick”. Its newly renovated Discovery Center has fun and interactive activities including games and crafts. The museum offers private bookings at this exhibit. Before your visit download these free Discovery Center ACKtivity Kits. Important tip: The museum may unexpectedly close because of weather or special events, so always check their website before your visit.
Children’s Beach:
Spend time at the suitably named Children’s Beach, located about 0.3 miles from the ferry terminal. You can safely take your little ones for a swim in an enclosed shallow area. Children will also enjoy playing at the large playground on the sand. There is a snack bar and cafe that is open seasonally.
Learn about the Gray Lady:
Take a casual stroll through the charming Nantucket Downtown Historic District. Walk along Main Street and learn about Nantucket’s history by reading marked historical sites (save this map). You can also book a Walking Tour offered by the Nantucket Historical Association. Check their website before visiting because the tours are seasonal and generally only offered from about Memorial Day to Labor Day. Important tip: For the 2022 year, the tours are ending on September 10th! The tours are about one hour long, so don’t forget your sunblock and supportive footwear. Current ticket prices are the following: $20 for adults, $5 for youth ages 6-17, and children under 6 are free.
Eat, Snap, Shop!
There are countless cute shops and fantastic restaurants located in the Downtown Historic District. Making reservations far in advance is highly recommended, especially during summer and weekends. Expert tip: If you did not make any reservations and are looking for family-friendly and casual dining, Easy Street Cantina is a great option.
Take a picture at the iconic Nantucket Compass Rose. The mural is located on the side of the Ralph Lauren store, specifically at the corner of Main Street and Washington Street. Rest from walking and enjoy yummy ice cream- it’s famous at Nantucket for a reason. Consensus that The Juice Bar and Jack and Charlie’s Ice Cream are the most delicious (but plan for long lines). These locations have gained high popularity from social media and because of their unique flavors and food allergy options.
Enjoy exploring Nantucket!
1 Comment
Comments are closed.