Location: Woods Hole
Top Things to do in Woods Hole
- 1. Nobska Point Lighthouse
- 2. Shining Sea Bikeway
- 3. The Steamship Authority - Martha's Vineyard
- 4. Cornelia Carey Sanctuary (The Knob)
- 5. Woods Hole Science Aquarium
- 6. Highfield Hall & Gardens
- 7. Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
- 8. Island Queen Ferry
- 9. Woods Hole Drawbridge
- 10. Aquarium of the National Marine Fisheries
10 Things to Do in Woods Hole That You Shouldn't Miss
Woods Hole is a census-designated place in the town of Falmouth in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, United States. It lies at the extreme southwest corner of Cape Cod, near Martha's Vineyard and the Elizabeth Islands. The population was 781 at the 2010 census.
Restaurants in Woods Hole
1. Nobska Point Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 527 reviews
Reviewed By James W - Falmouth, Massachusetts
This historic lighthouse was recently deededto the town of Falmouth and is currently undergoing extensively renovation expected to be completed next spring. Fantastic views of Martha's Vineyard. Well worth visiting but check hourls and days open first.
2. Shining Sea Bikeway
Overall Ratings
5 based on 884 reviews
Reviewed By Francesca V - Boca Raton, Florida
I LOVE the Shining Sea bikeway. Plenty of parking at lots near the start of the trail. Surface is FLAT for ALL levels of bikers. Can get "busy" with children & strollers during peak hours. Beautiful scenery takes one to lovely & vivacious Wood Hole!
3. The Steamship Authority - Martha's Vineyard
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 639 reviews
Serving over 2 million travelers to Martha's Vineyard, the Steamship Authority is the largest ferry provider on Cape Cod, offering the lowest fares, the most departures and year-round service for passengers, vehicles and trucks. We offer off-site parking and free shuttle service to our Woods Hole terminal. Check our mobile site for current parking and trip status. Whether you come for a day, or a longer stay, the Steamship Authority is the Way to Go with our spacious ships, the most frequent daily departures, and U.S. Coast Guard-certified crews to get you there safely. From the moment you step on board, you'll have that vacation feeling. Sit outdoors for the sea breezes and spectacular ocean views, or find cozy, comfortable seating indoors. For your enjoyment, our snack bars offer beverages including beer, wine and mixed drinks, as well as hot and cold menu items. Pets are welcome to travel with you in designated areas on-board. The seven mile trip from Woods Hole to beautiful Martha's Vineyard takes just 45 minutes. And you have your choice of two ports for your arrival: Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs (May-October). From magnificent beaches to wind-swept dunes to historic town centers, a trip to Martha's Vineyard will always be memorable.
Reviewed By schmidtmg - Switzerland
There is no parking next to the Ferry terminal, but shuttle buses to and from a large parking in Falmouth are plenty.. The crossing from Woods Hole to MV takes about 45 minutes, and staying on the upper deck and enjoying the views of the coast and of MV is very pleasant on a sunny day (as on the October day we went). There is a bar which sells drinks and even a local craft beer at fairly reasonable prices.... this is the best way to get to MV.
4. Cornelia Carey Sanctuary (The Knob)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 184 reviews
Before you go.. there is very limited parking. Please try to walk or bike there for a visit. No large gatherings, events or functions are allowed on the Knob property. Nature trails run among the beach, rock and trees of this hidden shelter. Please leave the property as you found it. Dogs are allowed but only on leash. Please clean-up after your dog. This is a non-smoking property.
Reviewed By Steven D - Sun City Center, Florida
Great hiking trails with a wonderful ending view at the Knob, located in Woods Hole, MA, continues to be a major attraction to the public for its nature walk, birding, marsh, coastal bank and its spectacular views of Quissett Harbor and Buzzards Bay.
5. Woods Hole Science Aquarium
Overall Ratings
4 based on 459 reviews
This aquarium offers visitors the chance to watch the seals being fed.
Reviewed By travelguyPa - Pa
The Woods Hole Aquarium specializes in local fish. That can sometimes mean a sea (no pun intended) of grey and brown species with little interest. Not so here. The fact that the aquarium is connected to the scientific work that is done at WHOI and MBL makes it very educational, and the history that you learn about the fishing industry is great. Be certain to go upstairs and see the tanks from above (and maybe get a chance to see them feed the fish). You get a whole different perspective of the displays from above.
6. Highfield Hall & Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 133 reviews
Highfield Hall & Gardens, a five-star rated destination, is a magnificent Victorian mansion with beautiful gardens located in the heart of Falmouth. Highfield Hall is an active cultural center offering international art exhibitions, concerts, festivals, culinary classes, family programs and educational opportunities. The mansion is surrounded by nearly 400 acres of public conservation land and walking trails. As a "must see" on Cape Cod, plan to spend an hour or a day at this family-friendly estate. Free Fridays from 4 PM - 7 PM in July & August. Closed on Monday excepts holidays.
Reviewed By bcnett - Stoneham, Massachusetts
So glad this home was saved from the wrecking crew and reburbished to the grand home it is today. We were hesitant to visit the home when we read that the house did not have much furniture. This house does not need furniture. The foyer, halls, and stair cases are so amazing that you are readily make aware of the grandeur of this home.
I thoroughly enjoyed the room with all the history of the Beebe family, the room with the 3D quilts, the room used as a library with lots of interesting books, ( You are invited to sit and enjoy the books.), and the rooms with art displays.
We enjoyed the gardens but did not have enough time to use the walking path. Hope to visit again when we have more time.
7. Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 130 reviews
Internationally renowned marine biology research center.
Reviewed By Taylor B - Chicago, Illinois
You may not have heard about the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. But you've probably heard about Robert Ballard. He's the marine researcher/explorer who led the expedition that discovered the location of the wreck of the RMS Titanic which sank off the coast of Newfoundland on April 15, 1912. Ballard's group from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution identified Titanic's watery grave on September 1, 1985. You've been viewing TV documentaries about it ever since. Woods Hole is a private, non-profit research and higher education facility dedicated to the study of all aspects of marine science and engineering and to the education of marine researchers. Established in 1930, it is located in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, and is the largest independent oceanographic research institution in the United States with a staff and students numbering about 1,000. Working in all of the world's oceans, their research agenda includes coastal erosion, global climate change, ocean pollution and geological activity deep within the earth.
8. Island Queen Ferry
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 741 reviews
The Fun Way to Martha's Vineyard! Sail away on the Island Queen from Falmouth, Cape Cod and you will experience Martha's Vineyard within just 35-minutes. Convenient parking just 200 yards from the dock. Enjoy our enclosed lounge, outside decks, full-service snack bar and our friendly crew! Daily sailings beginning at 9:00am from late May to mid October. Children ages 4 & under travel free! Group discounts for 20 or more passenger available.
Reviewed By Mimi E - Venice, Florida
It is so easy to travel on The Island Queen. Parking is within walking distance of the ferry and the price is very reasonable.
9. Woods Hole Drawbridge
Overall Ratings
4 based on 130 reviews
Reviewed By notenuftravel2017 - Port Huron, Michigan
I am probably a little biased. I have lived in communities with a drawbridge and when you are trying to get some place in a hurry they are really annoying. With that being said I can understand the fascination if you have not seen them, you are on vacation and have children in your party. It is also probably an interesting site while enjoying an ice cream cone or having dinner in a nearby restaurant. What is unique about this one is that everything is still operated manually. The keeper has to get out pull the gate across the sidewalk and the street before he can raise the bridge. After the boat passes under the bridge he has to put the bridge down and then open up the gates again manually. The passage is very narrow compared to the ones that I have seen. This is not a must see attraction but something interesting to watch for if you happen to be in the area and obviously you are more likely to see it in operation in the warmer months.
10. Aquarium of the National Marine Fisheries
Overall Ratings
4 based on 56 reviews
The oldest aquarium in the U.S. emphasizes learning activities for children.
Reviewed By Matilda F - Mannheim, Germany
As you don't have to pay anything, its for sure worth the money. Quiet a few fish though in the tough tank (that's why we came) there were only a few crabs and some small fish.
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