Whether you’re interested in checking out the local vineyards, going on nature walks, or simply relaxing on the beach, Martha’s Vineyard has it all. In this article, we will take a look at over 12 of the best things to do in Martha’s Vineyard!
Gay Head Cliffs
The Gay Head Cliffs are one of the most iconic things to do in Martha’s Vineyard. The clay cliffs are a beautiful red hue, and they offer breathtaking views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs are also home to a variety of plant and animal life, including several rare and endangered species. The Gay Head Cliffs are a popular spot for hiking, bird watching, and picnicking, and they are also a popular destination for weddings and other special occasions.
Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs
The Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs are a must-see thing to do in Martha’s Vineyard. These brightly-colored homes, built in the late 1800s, are a whimsical sight. While the cottages may look like they’re made of gingerbread, they’re actually made of wood. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to tour one of the cottages during your visit. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a unique photo opportunity, the Gingerbread Cottages are definitely worth a stop.
Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association
Founded in 1835, the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association is a unique community. It is open to all people, and it offers a variety of amenities including lodging, dining, and shopping. One of the most popular attractions at the Camp Meeting Association is the Tabernacle, a large auditorium that hosts a variety of musical and theatrical performances. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful grounds, which feature gardens, ponds, and hiking trails.
Wampanoag Museum of Cultural History
The Wampanoag Museum of Cultural History is a fascinating place to learn about the history and culture of the Wampanoag people. The museum houses a large collection of Wampanoag artifacts, as well as a library and archives. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibitions on Wampanoag life and culture, or take part in one of the many educational programs offered. The museum also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as powwows and traditional dances.
Vineyard Historical Society
The Martha’s Vineyard Historical Society is one of the oldest and most respected historical organizations on the East Coast. Founded in 1858, the Society is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Martha’s Vineyard. The Society’s museum is home to a wide array of artifacts, documents, and other items that tell the story of the island’s past. In addition to the museum, the Society also operates a research center, library, and archives. The Martha’s Vineyard Historical Society is an important resource for anyone interested in learning about the island’s rich history.
Polly Hill Arboretum
The arboretum was founded in the mid fifities by horticulturist Polly Hill. Hill was passionate about plants and had a vision for creating an open-air laboratory where new plant species could be tested for their hardiness in the maritime climate of the Vineyard. Today, the arboretum covers more than 75 acres and features a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and flowers. Visitors can explore the grounds on self-guided tours or participate in educational programs offered by the arboretum staff.
Edgartown Lighthouse
The Edgartown Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Martha’s Vineyard in Edgartown, Massachusetts. The lighthouse was built in 1827 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1939 and replaced by a new light station. The Edgartown Lighthouse is currently owned by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and is open to the public. The lighthouse is open for tours from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Visitors can ascend the tower for a panoramic view of Edgartown Harbor and Vineyard Sound.
Aquinnah Cliffs
The Aquinnah Cliffs are a site of natural beauty. The cliffs are composed of clay, which is rich in iron oxide minerals that give the cliffs their characteristic red hue. The Aquinnah Cliffs are also home to a variety of plant and animal life. Thick forests of oak and maple trees provide habitat for deer, squirrels, and other animals, while the cliffs themselves are home to several species of nesting birds. Visitors to the Aquinnah Cliffs can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and simply taking in the stunning views.
Menemsha Hills
The Menemsha Hills are a small, isolated mountain range. Due to their remote location, they are relatively unknown and receives very few visitors. However, the Menemsha Hills offer a unique and beautiful hiking experience. The hills are covered in dense forests and contain a number of streams and ponds. wildlife is abundant, and hikers may see deer, beavers, and even moose. In addition, the views from the top of the hills are breathtaking. On a clear day, hikers can see for miles in all directions.
Chappaquiddick Island
The Chappaquiddick Island is best known for the infamous 1969 incident in which Senator Ted Kennedy drove off a bridge and into a pond, killing his passenger, Mary Jo Kopechne. Kennedy was able to swim to safety, but Kopechne drowned. The resulting scandal damaged Kennedy’s political career, and he was never able to fully recover from it. Today, Chappaquiddick Island is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can take a ferry from Martha’s Vineyard to explore its history and natural beauty.
Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard: Beaches
South Beach
South Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Martha’s Vineyard. It is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and lush vegetation. The beach is also a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. South Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Martha’s Vineyard.
Katama Beach
Located on the southeastern tip of Martha’s Vineyard, Katama Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is well-known for its strong rip currents, so it’s important to swim only in designated areas and to heed the warnings of lifeguards. Nevertheless, the waves at Katama Beach are some of the best in the area, making it a popular destination for surfers of all levels.
Joseph Sylvia State Beach
Joseph Sylvia State Beach is a public beach located in the town of Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard. The beach is named after Joseph Sylvia, a Native American who owned the land on which the beach is located. The beach offers views of Nantucket Sound and is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing. There is also a public boat ramp and a picnic area.
Flying Horses Carousel
The Flying Horses Carousel is one of the oldest operating carousels in the United States. It was built in 1876 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has 32 wooden horses that gallop around a central pole, and each horse is hand-painted. The carousel is operated by a lever that controls the speed of the horses. Riders can choose to go as fast or slow as they want. The carousel is open from April to October, and rides are $2 per person.
Other Things to Do in Martha’s Vineyard
The above list does not exhaust the entirety of what the picturesque Martha’s Vineyard Island has to offer. Don’t forget to check out other things to do in Martha’s Vineyard, such as:
- Old Whaling Church;
- Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge;
- Chilmark;
- Cape Cod.
And the list goes on… We hope you like our picks! Thanks for reading.
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