Top Things to do in Martha's Vineyard
The 10 Best Sights & Landmarks in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts (MA)
Yes, getting there is a bit of a project. But vacationers have been braving the ferry for years, and this tiny island off Cape Cod remains one of the most popular and picturesque destinations in New England. Among the island's towns, you're sure to find the Vineyard that's right for you. With stately Greek revival houses dating back to the whaling era of the early 19th century, Edgartown is a seaside village of boutique shopping and pristine harbor views. For more of a "beach town" feel, Oak Bluffs has the Flying Horses carousel, an arcade and an easy walk to the beach, plus the history and charm of the "gingerbread" houses in the Methodist campgrounds. Vineyard Haven offers visitors a blend of both. For a real retreat, Chilmark/Aquinnah is the place to get away from it all. In the off-season, the island is quieter and far less crowded, but the shore is always beautiful. Whenever you visit, leave your car behind! Cabs are plentiful and greet the incoming ferries to help you reach your destination. Most visitors prefer to explore the island on a bicycle, scooter or tourist-friendly public buses.
Restaurants in Martha's Vineyard
1. West Chop
2. North Tisbury Farm
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
3. Circuit Avenue
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 308 reviews
Off-beat and quirky shopping enclave in Oak Bluffs.
Reviewed By py236 - Albany, United States
Circuit Avenue is in the heart of Oak Bluffs once upon a time where African Americans went on vacation because they weren't allowed to be anywhere else. Restaurants, tourist shops and ice cream stores line the street. Every night, people walk up and down the block, gather to talk or sit outside. It's just down the block from the pier, which has a wide range of food and activity offerings. Truly the heart of the town and walking distanxe to the beach and town square.
4. Flying Horses Carousel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 387 reviews
Try your luck at catching the brass ring and winning a free ride on the oldest working carousel in the U.S., which has been enchanting children and adults for over a hundred years. The 20 hand-carved horses on this official historic landmark have real horsehair manes and tails.
Reviewed By joettek2015
The kiddos loved trying to get the brass ring all while riding the oldest carousel in the country! Fun experience for all!
5. Old Whaling Church
6. Gay Head
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 142 reviews
The 10-minute walk from the parking lot is well worth the trek to this spectacular beach with its magnificent multi-colored cliffs, which are a national landmark. The lack of commercialism means a true escape and relaxation, but you'll need to bring food and supplies.
Reviewed By starsnsands
Stunning Magnificent Ocean Beach with lovely waves and the beach is dotted with pebbles of all sizes and shapes. Marine life abounds along the waters. I think GayHead is one of the Loveliest Beaches in the World. The sands are soft but this beach has a lot of stones.
7. Aquinnah Cliffs
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 509 reviews
Reviewed By monicabX2463SJ
breathtaking views, awesome to look downwards and see the waves crashing and the different colors of the cliffs
8. Aquinnah Lighthouse
9. Edgartown Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 590 reviews
The Martha's Vineyard Museum is privileged to be the steward of three of the Island's lighthouses. The East Chop, Edgartown, and Gay Head lighthouses are not only historic reminders of a bygone age, but are working beacons that still send a light out into the night. Beyond their important functional role, these structures also offer visitors spectacular views of the breathtaking beauty of Vineyard Sound, the simple elegance of Edgartown Harbor & Chappaquiddick, and the majestic cliffs of Aquinnah. Major renovations completed in 2007, including installation of a staircase to the lantern room, allow the interior of the Edgartown Light to be open to visitors. A lighthouse keeper will be available and the doors will be open during designated hours. Parking is available, but limited, on North Water Street. The Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) busses drop off on Church Street in Edgartown. It is a 5-10 minute walk to the lighthouse from this location.
Reviewed By nidesa - Wayne, United States
The historical lighthouse in Edgartown have a magnet to visitors to be seen .Beautiful homes to see from Main Street to the lighthouse.Nice blooming flowers.Must visit every time in the island.
10. Martha's Vineyard Camp meeting Association (MVCMA)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 631 reviews
Reviewed By SharonR227 - Wayzata, United States
We walked down Circuit Ave and took a path leading into the beautiful grassy area of the Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association. It was a quiet restful place by the Tabernacle revival meeting house where concerts are still held, surrounded by beautifully ornate gingerbread cottages from 1867. Each cottage is unique and creatively adorned with color. We also toured the Trinity Methodist Church. A delightful area in Oak Bluffs for a stroll.
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