Nantucket, MA, is located 30 miles south of Cape Cod. But even though it is a small island, there are so many places to explore and so many things to do there that it is a good idea to plan your itinerary ahead of time.
First, you should book and buy your ferry or plane tickets, and then search for the perfect local residence to rent. Thankfully, there is a wide variety of homes and lodgings to choose from for any taste and budget.
There are the historic buildings and cobblestone streets to stroll through, as well as the romantic white shell-covered pathways, the endless sandy beaches, the mega yachts at the wharf, the wonderful blooming gardens, lighthouses, unique museums, and natural reserves you can explore there.
But to make the most of your trip to Nantucket, we have selected the top things to do there to add to your program.
Visit the Whaling Museum
Located Downtown, this famous museum is situated in an old whale oil candle-making factory. You will see various artifacts, paintings, and other exhibits from the glorious whaling years when the island was considered the whaling capital of the world. There is a massive sperm whale skeleton there, as well as artifacts from the famous whaling ship Essex, which inspired the writing of “Moby-Dick.” And while you are there – don’t forget to climb on the rooftop deck for an unbelievable view of the harbor and mega yachts.
See the Oldest Working Windmill in the USA
The Old Mill was first built in 1746 and was inspired by the famous windmills of the Netherlands. It was restored in 1828 and today is the only remaining functioning windmill in the country.
If you are lucky and there is enough wind, you can see how the mill works and how the corn is ground into cornmeal by the grinding stone.
This is definitely a one-of-a-kind experience, which you should put on your bucket list.
Walk the Most Beautiful Sconset Bluff Walk
This walking path is covered with white shells and is only a mile long, but it will be the most romantic and picturesque walk you will take. It starts from the old fishing village of Siasconset. Then it passes through the charming gray weathered shingle cottages covered with crawling red roses and surrounded by stunning gardens. The path passes by the local market, where you can grab a snack, and then head off to the Siasconset beach and the historic Sankaty Head Light. You can go in and enjoy the astonishing ocean view from the top of the lighthouse.
Take Some Insta-worthy Romantic Sunset Pictures at Madaket
Madaket Beach is among the top-rated Instagram-worthy spots not only in Nantucket but in the entire New England area.
This is the westernmost beach on the island and is a perfect wide and long beach with soft sand for a picnic. But it is in the evenings when you can take some stunning photos or enjoy the unobstructed view of the endless ocean and the sun setting in millions of hues.
You can enjoy a bite at the nearby Mexican restaurant Millie’s, a favorite for vacationers and locals alike.
Spend a Day Listening to Music and Having Fun at Cisco Brewers
This brewery is like no other in the country. Cisco Brewers is the only craft brewery and, best of all, is located right next to Nantucket Vineyards and Triple Eight Distillery.
This means that there is a favorite drink for just about any taste there.
You can enjoy sampling some of the local brews, wines, or spirits in the large beer garden. There is live music every single day from 3 p.m. until after midnight.
There are food trucks and snacks available, and it is a perfect spot for a party but is family-friendly too.
Some of the local craft beers include Wandering Haze IPA, Whale’s Tale Pale Ale, Grey Lady Wheat Ale, Shark tracker Light Lager, Gripah Grapefruit IPA, and Dock Dark Lager.
The local spirits are pretty exciting and will make great souvenirs and presents for your friends. Try out the Cranberry Vodka infused with the local cranberries from the famous Nantucket Bogs, or some Blueberry Vodka, Gale Force Gin, Hurricane Run, No ‘Eastern Bourbon, or the local canned craft cocktails.
