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Things to do in Nantucket

Discover the best things to do in Nantucket, from historic lighthouses and world-class museums to scenic beaches and local dining.

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Nantucket offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty and rich maritime history, situated off the coast of Massachusetts. The island is renowned for its preserved cobblestone streets, historic cedar-shingled buildings, and beautiful saltbox homes. Visitors can spend hours exploring the walkable downtown core, which features local boutiques, art galleries, and scenic harbor views. The island’s unique geography provides miles of pristine, sandy beaches and dramatic coastal bluffs perfect for relaxing walks and viewing iconic lighthouses.

Beyond its visual charm, this seaside destination invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore extensive bike paths that wind through rolling heathlands and tranquil conservation areas. Whether you are interested in learning about the island's deep whaling heritage, enjoying fresh local seafood along the waterfront, or simply watching the sailboats glide past the harbor, there is a peaceful and timeless quality to the local pace of life. It remains a premier New England retreat where history and natural beauty seamlessly come together.

Frequently asked questions about Nantucket

What is a must-see landmark for first-time visitors to Nantucket?▾

A great starting point is visiting the iconic Brant Point Lighthouse, located at the harbor entrance, where you can watch ferries and sailboats glide past the scenic shoreline.

What is there to do on a rainy day in Nantucket?▾

For an engaging indoor activity, you can explore the Nantucket Whaling Museum, which features a massive sperm whale skeleton, historic artifacts, and interactive exhibits detailing the island's legendary maritime past.

Where can families go to enjoy local agricultural heritage and shopping?▾

Families can spend a wonderful afternoon at Bartlett's Farm, where you can explore the beautiful market garden, shop for fresh local produce, and pick up specialty groceries.

What is a popular spot for relaxing with drinks and live vibes on the weekend?▾

You can head to Cisco Brewers to enjoy a lively outdoor atmosphere featuring local craft beers, wines, spirits, and food truck offerings in a rustic island setting.

Where is a great place to enjoy a modern, sit-down dinner in town?▾

For a memorable dining experience, you can book a table at The Proprietors Bar & Table, known for its contemporary, globally-influenced dishes served in a charming, historic home setting.

Things to do in Nantucket

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Grocery StorePhoto of Nantucket Meat & Fish Market — Grocery Store

Nantucket Meat & Fish Market

Nantucket, MA|5
Book StorePhoto of Nantucket Bookworks — Book Storevia Google Maps

Nantucket Bookworks

Nantucket, MA|5
Wildlife RefugePhoto of Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge Gatehouse — Wildlife Refuge

Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge Gatehouse

Nantucket, MA|5
BistroPhoto of Le Languedoc Bistro — Bistrovia Google Maps

Le Languedoc Bistro

French-inspired regional cuisine in a 1780s tavern with a casually elegant ambiance & a bar.

Nantucket, MA|4
Photo of Nobadeer Beachvia Google Maps

Nobadeer Beach

Wide, sandy public beach with plenty of surf, but no facilities or lifeguards.

Nantucket, MA|5
MarinaPhoto of Nantucket Boat Basin — Marinavia Google Maps

Nantucket Boat Basin

Nantucket, MA|5
Historical LandmarkPhoto of Great Point Lighthouse — Historical Landmark

Great Point Lighthouse

Historic lighthouse, rebuilt in 1986, sited on the dunes of the Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge.

Nantucket, MA|5
Asian Fusion RestaurantPhoto of The Pearl — Asian Fusion Restaurantvia Google Maps

The Pearl

Splashy spot for creative cocktails & inventive Asian-inspired seafood, including wok-fried lobster.

Nantucket, MA|4
Coffee ShopPhoto of Roastd General Store — Coffee Shop

Roastd General Store

Nantucket, MA|4
RestaurantPhoto of American Seasons — Restaurantvia Google Maps

American Seasons

Rustic decor with New American seasonal foods & over 500 American-made wines, served by candlelight.

Nantucket, MA|4
Gift ShopPhoto of The Hub of Nantucket — Gift Shop

The Hub of Nantucket

Nantucket, MA|4
RestaurantPhoto of Town — Restaurant

Town

Eclectic eats, including Asian & Indian dishes, served in the welcoming dining room or on the patio.

Nantucket, MA|4
Grocery StorePhoto of Sconset Market — Grocery Store

Sconset Market

Nantucket, MA|5
Tour AgencyPhoto of Nantucket Island Tours — Tour Agencyvia Google Maps

Nantucket Island Tours

Nantucket, MA|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Queequeg's — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Queequeg's

Snug spot pairs eclectic American plates with wine on the inviting deck or in the warm dining room.

Nantucket, MA|4
RestaurantPhoto of The Chanticleer Restaurant & Gardens — Restaurantvia Google Maps

The Chanticleer Restaurant & Gardens

American restaurant serving seasonal, contemporary fare in elegant rooms, some with garden views.

Nantucket, MA|4
History MuseumPhoto of Nantucket Shipwreck and Life Saving Museum — History Museum

Nantucket Shipwreck and Life Saving Museum

Tracing the history of local shipwrecks & rescues with historic documents & artifacts, plus demos.

Nantucket, MA|5
ParkPhoto of Cisco Beach — Park

Cisco Beach

Nantucket, MA|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Oran Mor — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Oran Mor

Upscale seasonal Nantucket cuisine offered on the second story of a charming, historic house.

Nantucket, MA|4
Clothing StorePhoto of Murray's Toggery Shop — Clothing Storevia Google Maps

Murray's Toggery Shop

Long-running store selling Nantucket Reds clothing & other apparel, plus gifts & accessories.

Nantucket, MA|4