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Defined in part by its isolation, the tiny island of Nantucket, off Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is an annual destination for discerning travelers from all over the world due to its dune-laden beaches, wistful wharves and inviting cobblestone streets.
A secret no one has ever been able to keep, Nantucket and its 10,000 resident’s welcome visitors who appreciate its stringent preservation standards, yacht-filled harbor, cedar-shingled buildings, unique shops, historic sites and charming inns. It’s hard to imagine this tiny peninsula was once the whaling capitol of the world but it has the museum to prove it.
Things to Do
To appreciate the history of this once great whaling hub, one must tour Nantucket’s Whaling Museum. A 43-foot skeleton of a finback whale welcomes visitors to the museum holding the history of the island’s foremost industry.
Explore the natural shoreline of Nantucket by taking a 90-minute tour of the island aboard the majestic sloop Endeavor. And, you can continue to explore the island’s native splendor within its aquarium, natural science museum and observatory.
Unique and island-made arts and crafts fill the wharf shack shopping venues of Nantucket. Purchase treasures such as custom jewelry, stunning art glass and handmade baskets. The island also specializes in fine textiles so you can purchase amazing hand-woven throws from Nantucket Looms or get a lesson from hooking a beautiful rug at Claire Murray. For those looking for a good book shop, stop into Mitchell’s Book Corner and peruse an impressive space featuring local and maritime-themed covers.
Popular Places to Eat and Drink
The locals of Nantucket enjoy the feasts of the sea and restaurants on the island reflect the admiration for the water with ever-changing fresh catch selections. Have a special dinner of fresh seafood like lobster, clams and bluefish in one of the many upscale harbor-side eateries.
For a more casual option, enjoy the steaming plates of fried delights from Sayle’s Seafood before stopping by the beloved Island Pharmacy for an old-fashioned ice cream treat.
Travelers who enjoy fish tacos and swordfish should check out Dune and, for the island’s most delectable lobster and steak frites, try Le Languedoc Inn and Bistro. Known for its homemade ice cream, travelers and locals alike flood to Juice Bar.