Are you planning a trip to Nantucket? Here is our cheat sheet, which you can use as a quick reference when you get there. Once you settle down in your rented lodging or hotel, you can start your unforgettable vacation and adventure right away on one of the most beautiful and iconic New England islands.
Here is everything you need to know when spending time on the island
Nantucket is an island located 30 miles south of Cape Cod through the Nantucket Sound. The island is 14 miles long and 3 to 5 miles wide.
It is one of the most popular New England coastal summer towns and a preferred location for second homes and seasonal residents and visitors.
There are more historic pre-Civil War homes and buildings in Nantucket than in any other town in the USA, the most iconic being the gray weathered shingle-style houses and cottages.
What to See and Do in Nantucket
The season in Nantucket starts on Columbus Day and ends around Labor Day. The peak of the summer season is July and August when the population of 10,000 can grow to up to 50,000 people.
If you don't like crowds and want to find better available rental accommodations and tables in the best restaurants, we recommend that you go during the shoulder season months. These are in May and June or in the fall in September and October.
Or, if you want to see Nantucket in its most natural style, you can visit it off-season.
At Christmas, there is a fun, festive Christmas stroll you can take part in.
Things to do in Nantucket
- The Whaling Museum – located downtown in an old oil candle factory from 1854, this museum contains thousands of exhibits and has nine galleries. You can see a Fresnel lens and a real sperm whale skeleton there. 13 Broad Street.
- Sankaty head Light – The lighthouse is still functioning and in 2007 was moved back into the land by 400 feet to preserve it from being destroyed by the corroding shores. Baxter Street, Siasconset.
- Nantucket Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum – find out more about the hundreds of shipwrecks that occurred around the island and the islanders who risked their lives saving their crews. There are hundreds of artifacts and ship models. 158 Polpis Road.
- Nantucket Atheneum – The library has an extensive book collection as well as access to millions of items, databases, and periodicals.
- Dreamland Film and Performing Arts Center – a small historic cultural center that hosts various events, including film, theater, exhibitions, and other educational and cultural activities. 17 South Water Street.
- The Old Mill – The tour will take you through the history and the milling process, and you can actually view the mill milling corn. 50 Prospect Street.
- Cisco Brewers – There are food trucks for snacks and a gift shop to buy some local beverages. 5 Bartlett Farm Road.
- Nantucket Lightship Basket Museum –You can see baskets from back in the 1800s and learn how to weave yourself. 49 Union Street.
- Coskata-Coatue Wildlife refuge – located on two scenic peninsulas on the north shore, this refuge offers stunning views of the wildlife, the ocean, and the landscape.
- Sankaty Head Light – on the easternmost point, this lighthouse is among the top places to take photos. It was built in 1850, and in 2007 was moved entirely inward to prevent it from collapsing into the ocean. It is still operational and beautiful. 122 Baxter Road, or take the Sconset Bluff Walk.
Shopping in Nantucket
- Murray's Toggery Shop – this is the only place in the world where you can buy the iconic trademark Nantucket's Reds. 62 Main Street.
- Current Vintage – this is the boutique to go to if you want to buy the top curated wines, cheeses, and vintage clothing, accessories, and gifts. 4 East Street.
- Susan Lister Locke – rated as the top jeweler of Nantucket, Susan Locke offers some unique pieces, many of which are inspired by the sea, in her jewelry shop located on 28 East Street.
- Erica Wilson Boutique – Today, you can find some stunning eclectic finds, needlepoint items, and Nantucket-style apparel and accessories. 25 Main Street.
- Nantucket Looms – this is an artisan shop where you can buy local cottage-style inspired décor items, including some handmade linens and blankets. 51 Main Street.
- The Jewel in the Sea – You can have custom-made jewelry, and all items are hand-signed by sisters Kate and Meghan Trainor. 6 Straight Wharf.
Eating in Nantucket
- Black-Eyed Susan's – this is a popular local breakfast and dinner location on 10 India Street.
- CRU – an oyster bar located at the end of the dock offers an ideal Nantucket experience. 1 Straight Wharf.
- Lemon Place – it is the place to go for fresh-pressed juice and healthy food for breakfast or lunch. 4 Main Street.
- Ventuno – a popular foodie favorite, with small plates and delicious local delicacies, such as soft shell crab. 12 Federal Street.
- Lola 41 – for those of you who like sushi or want to enjoy mouthwatering fresh local catches. 15 South Beach Street.
- Proprietor's – soak up the culture and experience influenced by the whaling history of Nantucket. There are local, international and vegan dishes. 9 India Street.
- Straight Wharf – Modern interpretations of the traditional summer classics of the island here. 6 Harbor Square.
- Bartlett's Farm – Best local produce and fine groceries here and shop for plants, flowers, and herbs at the nursery. 33 Bartlett Farm Road.
- Club Car – an excellent place for dinner, which transforms into a sing-along piano bar in the late hours. 1 Main Street.
- Cisco Brewers –Take a tasting tour of the craft beer and other locally produced wines and spirits, and enjoy the live music and food trucks for a festival-like experience. 5 Bartlett Farm Road.
- Corner Table – one of the best places to go get a coffee or tea and some gourmet items on the go. 22 Federal Street.
Seasonal events and festivals
Nantucket is known for its various festivals and seasonal events, including the Daffodil Festival in April, the Figawi Regatta in May, the Film Festival and the Book Festival held in June, the Cranberry Festival in October, and the Christmas Stroll in December.