Curator’s statement
There's a reason Nantucket is such a popular destination. Just a ferry or short plane ride away from the mainland, this summer hotspot has something for everyone. Whether you prefer to spend your days on the laid-back beaches, or walking around town shopping & eating, you won't be disappointed here. I first visited with friends in my early 20s. My husband & I went back for a babymoon several years later, and now we've been taking our kids every summer.
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Things to do in Nantucket
The Whaling Museum
The Whaling Museum is in the center of town, a short walk from the ferry. History buffs will love learning about how the island was settled and what life was like, while children are amazed by the sperm whale skeleton.
Nantucket Bookworks
Did you forget something to read while at the beach? Stop into Nantucket Bookworks and pick up the latest bestseller or something by a local author. In the back of the store, there's a great kids' section with book and toys.
Critter Cruise
On this cruise, kids get up close & personal with crabs, lobster, and whatever else they can catch.
Drive out to Sconset!
If you have a car, take a drive out to Sconset. There's a beautiful playground on the water. Afterwards, walk over to Sconset Market for ice cream.
Rent Bikes
There are a number of places to rent bikes in town. The shops will give you a map of all the wonderfully accessible paved bike paths on the island. Most bikes come with baskets so you can take your lunch & towels with you to the beach.
Barnaby's Toy & Art
You'll wish you were a kid again when stepping into Barnaby's. Not only do they carry classic toys like Legos, but what they're known for is their kits. You can create your own and take it with you - to make a bracelet, slime, a personalized backpack, OR you can drop in and have one of the amazing staff members do the craft with your kids. You can also make a reservation in advance for a drop-off class.
Great Point Lighthouse
Located at the northernmost point of the island in a wildlife reserve, this historic lighthouse will take you back in time. You'll need a four-wheel drive vehicle, as the drive is on the beach. Pro tip: Pack a cooler with lunch & drinks, and your beach chairs. You can park on the beach and enjoy the serene location after you check out the lighthouse.
Sanford Farm, Ram Pasture & The Woods
Go for a run on the trails of this conservation area. You can run all the way out to the beach and stop along the way to read the signs about the wildlife and history of the land. This area is also great for dog walking.
Shopping
From souvenirs to high-end boutiques, spend at least one day walking around town and checking out the shops.
Places to eat & drink in Nantucket
With the Kids
Ride a bike or drive your car out to Madaket for a stop at Millie's. They offer seafood, tacos and salads, and are very family-friendly. You can also order to go and take your food to the beach. Or grab a drink and walk over to Madaket beach for the best sunset viewing on the island.
This local brewery has a large outdoor space. Go for lunch just after they open, so you can get a picnic table as a home base for your family. Check out the various food trucks and bars. They have a stage where, depending on the day, they have live music and programming for children.
In town, next to the bookstore, you'll find Brotherhood. This restaurant has 3 dining areas with different menus. They have large tables in their outdoor area perfect for families. Pro tip: Let the kids pick a book or toy at the bookstore next door, so they can entertain themselves while you enjoy lunch.
Tired from walking around town shopping and forgot to make a reservation? We've never had trouble getting a table at The Charlie Noble. Have picky eaters? This restaurant has typical pub fare, such as burgers & chicken fingers for the kids.
Jettie's Beach isn't far from town and is a great option if you're looking for a beach with calmer water. Sandbar is set back from the beach and offers that picnic table, feet-in-the sand vibe.
No trip to Nantucket is complete without getting ice cream at The Juice Bar. The line can get long at night, so get there early or go during the day.
Date Night
For people watching- Cru
For an intimate experience- Bar Yoshi
For a special occasion- Straight Wharf
For after dinner drinks- Ethos
**You will need to make reservations in advance.**
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Travel Advisor
Angela Poulin
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For more travel tips, check out my guide, Weekend Guide to Game Day in Tampa. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Nantucket.