Nantucket, a picturesque and secluded island nestled off the shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, unveils its distinctive charm as a summer retreat graced by pristine beaches and iconic cedar-shingled structures. The quaint landscape features meticulously trimmed privets that envelop many of its unpainted buildings, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. However, seeing Nantucket in the fall can be equally enjoyable, with many saying this is the best time to go.
Meandering through the cobblestone streets and wharves of the Town of Nantucket, visitors are greeted by a tapestry of upscale boutiques, dining establishments, and historic churches. Amid these architectural treasures, the Whaling Museum is a testament to the island's rich history as a pivotal 19th-century whaling center. These are just some of the many exciting historical attractions in the area, so history buffs are in for a treat.
Things To Do In Nantucket
As people head to Nantucket this fall, there will be endless activities, restaurants, places to stay, and people to meet. This guide to the best things to do in Nantucket this fall should make planning a trip easier. Let's begin!
1 Check Out The Whaling Museum
- Address: 13 Broad St, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM
- Tickets: $5 for kids, $25 for adults, and $20 for seniors
The first thing to experience while in Nantucket is the Whaling Museum. Here, tourists can learn about the town's history, including the booming whaling industry that can be thanked for Nantucket's success in the 21st century.
Most people spend about an hour or two here, so make sure and allow enough time at the museum complex.
- The Whaling Museum is the flagship site of the Nantucket Historical Association's fleet of properties.
Nantucket is also called the 'Grey Lady' because of its maritime history, so this museum is an excellent way to learn more about that.
2 Brant Point Lighthouse
- Address: Easton St, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Open 24 hours
Another point of interest on Nantucket is the Brant Point Lighthouse. Here is where guests can experience a lighthouse located on Nantucket Island: the station was established in 1746, automated in 1965, and is still in operation today.
3 Soak Up The Sun At Madaket Beach
- How To Get To Madaket Beach: Accessible by bike via a 5.5-mile paved bike path, or take the NRTA shuttle bus (seasonal operating schedule)
The next thing to do in fall on Nantucket Island is head over to Madaket Beach, known for its rough surf and southern location. This is more of a beach to walk on rather than swim in, as the water can be choppy and intimidating for newer or inexperienced swimmers.
4 Tour The Great Point Lighthouse
- Address: Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Open 24 hours
Another fun sight to see while on Nantucket Island is the Great Point Lighthouse. Here, visitors can explore the lighthouse located on the northernmost point of Nantucket Island.
The lighthouse was first built in 1784; however, the original wooden tower was destroyed by fire in 1816. The following year a stone tower was erected, which stood until it toppled in a storm in March 1984.
5 Nantucket Shipwreck And Life Saving Museum
- Address: 158 Polpis Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM
The next fall activity in Nantucket is to check out the Nantucket Shipwreck and Life Saving Museum. Here is where a small, seasonal, non-profit museum dedicated to the history of shipwrecks off the Nantucket coast and Sound welcomes guests throughout busier times on the island.
6 Take A Trip To The Loines Observatory
- Address: 59 Milk St Ext, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 AM to 10:30 PM (9:45 PM Fridays)
For those wanting to enjoy the crisp air, a trip to the Loines Observatory is a nice way to spend the afternoon on Nantucket. Here lie the two domes of this Loines Observatory that serve as both an active research observatory and venue for public astronomical programs on Nantucket Island.
7 Walk Around The Sankaty Head Lighthouse
- Address: USA, Baxter Rd, Siasconset, MA 02564
- Hours: Open daily from 4 AM to 12 AM
The next stop on Nantucket is the Sankaty Head Lighthouse. Here, tourists can explore the 1850 structure that was automated in 1965 and still operates today. Like many of the lighthouses on Nantucket, this one is historic and has served the community for many decades.
8 Stroll The 'Sconset Bluff Walk
- Address: 27 Bank St, Siasconset, MA 02564
- Hours: Open daily from 7:30 AM to 8 PM
In the fall, it's worth it to escape the crowds and head to the 'Sconset Bluff Walk, a footpath with scenic sea & heathland views that runs through the backyards of homes along the bluff.
Considering the weather will be gorgeous, and the skies should be clear, this walking path is a nice way to kill an hour or two on Nantucket Island this autumn.
9 Catch The Waves At Sconset Beach
- One of the more popular beaches on Nantucket.
- Beach in Siasconset, Massachusetts.
Staying in the area, guests of Nantucket Island can also experience Sconset Beach. This is a local favorite, boasting stunning coastal views and soft sand. This expansive beach allows for great sunbathing and picnics but can get crowded during peak seasons.
However, in the fall, this shouldn't become a problem for tourists. Of course, with wind chills, we recommend bringing a sweater!
Nantucket is one of the many luxury getaways in New England, with great spots for spring vacations. Warmer months make for amazing beach days on Nantucket Island.
10 See The Historic Old Mill
- Address: 50 Prospect St, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Open 24 hours
Finally, a fall trip to Nantucket wouldn't be complete without seeing the historic Old Mill monument. Here is where the oldest functioning mill in the United States is located.
Additionally, the mill is owned and operated by the Nantucket Historical Association as a museum, where people can freely come see it during the day.
11 Best Time To Visit Nantucket Island
- Best Time To Come: March, April, September, and October.
Although Nantucket is stunning year-round, the best times to visit include the shoulder seasons: March, April, September, and October. This is when fewer people are on the island, and things are more magical in terms of scenery.
Notably, in the fall, leaves will be changing, and temps will drop, making a vacation memorable.
Most people don't come here in the winter because it gets so chilly, and businesses reduce hours and operations on the island. Spring, summer, and fall are the best times to travel to Nantucket.
- However, Christmas on Nantucket is stunning, so that could be one reason to come during the colder, slower season.
12 Best Ways To Get Around Nantucket
- Best Way To Get Around: Biking or walking
Since Nantucket is one of the few destinations in the US where people don't need a vehicle, we'd say this entire island is easily accessible. Most tourists and locals ride bikes or golf carts, although cars are permitted on roadways throughout Nantucket Island.
After all, with most hotels and rentals being close to downtown, this allows for an easy, carefree vibe among island guests, allowing them to walk between restaurants, attractions, and shops.
13 Where To Eat And Drink On Nantucket Island
Regarding food and drink options on Nantucket, there are plenty. Here are some options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks during the vacation.
Breakfast: Island Kitchen | Restaurant
- Address: 1 Chins Way, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Daily from 7 AM to 2 PM and again from 5:30-9 PM
- Serving: Upscale American fare served in a small, simple space inside a shingled house.
Lunch: Millie's Restaurant
- Address: 326 Madaket Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 9:30 PM
- Serving: Chill seafood specialist with Baja-style eats such as fish tacos, plus a patio & take-out window.
Dinner: Straight Wharf Restaurant
- Address: 6 Harbor Square, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Daily from 5:30 PM to 1 AM
- Serving: Elevated seafood dishes paired with wine in rustic-chic environs or on the waterfront porch.
Drinks: Petrichor Wine Bar
- Address: 130 Pleasant St, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Hours: Tuesday - Saturday from 5-11 PM (11 AM to 2 PM Sundays)
- Serving: Upscale wine and tastings featuring local assortments.
14 Where To Stay On Nantucket
Regarding hotels on Nantucket, there won't be as many as in a large city: but these properties are well worth the price. Since this is a higher-end location, hotels, and rentals will be more expensive than usual for vacationing in New England.
Here are some options for budget, mid-tier, and luxury stays on Nantucket Island.
Budget: Nantucket Inn
- Address: 1 Miller Lane, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Amenities: Outdoor pool, Indoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Bicycle rental, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking
Budget: The Centerboard Nantucket
- Address: 8 Chester Street, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Amenities: Flat-screen TV, Hairdryer, Air-conditioned, Non-smoking rooms available, Bathrobe, Private bathroom, Family rooms
Mid-Tier: The Chestnut House
- Address: 3 Chestnut Street, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Free toiletries, Hairdryer, Beach access, Air-conditioned, Library, Designated smoking area, Beach towels
Mid-Tier: Cliff Lodge
- Address: 9 Cliff Road, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Private bathroom, Complimentary breakfast, Air-conditioned, Flat-screen TV, Internet, Pets allowed on request
Luxury: The Bungalow
- Address: 66 Centre Street, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Free parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Pets allowed on request
Luxury: Faraway Nantucket
- Address: 29 Centre St, Nantucket, MA 02554
- Amenities: Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Free toiletries
15 Tips For Visiting Nantucket Island
When visiting Nantucket Island, there are some things to remember. First, the island is accessible by boat or seaplane. Moreover, the best ways to get here include: by plane from Boston, Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard, New Bedford, or New York City; by car ferry from Hyannis, or by passenger ferry from Hyannis, Harwich Port, or Martha's Vineyard.
- Again, this is a remote vacation destination, so expect different methods of transportation to and from the island.
Is Nantucket Expensive?
Price-wise, Nantucket is much more expensive than other stops in New England. Food, transportation, hotels, and everything else cost a premium here. Make sure and budget for these factors, especially if trying to visit Nantucket on a lower budget.
16 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Nantucket
Spending the perfect day on Nantucket won't be hard. We recommend starting the day off strolling through town, peeping into local stores, and grabbing some coffee. Check out one of the many lighthouses or museums along the island in the afternoon.
Going to the beach afterward for sunset is another nice addition to the day. It's cooler in the fall, so make sure and pack a coat and sweater. Finish the day eating fresh seafood at a nice restaurant, head to the hotel, and roast marshmallows by the fire. Have fun!