Town

Nantucket’s downtown features world class dining, charming boutiques, art galleries, inns, museums and historic sites. Its cobblestone streets and historic homes remind visitors of Nantucket’s whaling era. The ferry terminals and the Nantucket Boat Basin offer easy access to Nantucket for day visitors. Most destinations can be reached by foot, making Town the most convenient part of the island to live or rent. Groceries, shops, restaurants, and the harbor are right at your fingertips while beaches, golf, the airport, and the island's inland beauty can be easily reached by car or by "The WAVE,” Nantucket's shuttle system.

Location: The fist stop off the ferry, Nantucket's downtown (or Town) is located at the western end of Nantucket Harbor.

Kayak or Paddle board along the calm waters of the Nantucket Harbor known as Kayak Beach from Francis Street Beach.

Explore the Whaling Museum: One of the top attractions in downtown Nantucket, the Whaling Museum offers a fascinating look into the island’s maritime past. Exhibits include a sperm whale skeleton, whaling artifacts, and stories about Nantucket’s history as a whaling hub.

Stroll Through Historic Streets: Take a walk along the cobblestone streets like Main Street, Federal Street and Centre Street, where you’ll find beautifully preserved homes, shops, and churches. Take a walk down Easy Street, one of Nantucket’s most picturesque waterfront streets that offers a mix of shopping, dining, and scenic harbor views.

Shopping: Downtown Nantucket is known for its boutique shops, offering everything from high-end clothing and home goods to locally crafted art and souvenirs. Cobblestone Main Street and downtown side streets offer popular shopping destinations, while the Old North Wharf area offers small boutique shops and fishing, sailing and boating charters. You can also enjoy lunch on the harbor at Cru restaurant or an afternoon mudslide at The Gazebo.

Harbor Walk: Take a stroll along Nantucket Harbor and enjoy the views of the boats and yachts. The waterfront area is perfect for a scenic walk, and it’s close to many of the town’s best restaurants and shops.

Explore Nantucket Town Pier: Dock your boat, or a harbor cruise or sailing tour to explore Nantucket by water. These excursions often depart from the docks near the Town Pier and offer beautiful views of the island’s coastline, harbor, and iconic landmarks like Brant Point Lighthouse. Another popular option is a sunset cruise. The Town Pier is also a popular spot for casual fishing. Several fishing charters also operate from this area, offering guided trips for those looking for a more immersive fishing experience.

Brant Point Lighthouse: A short walk or bike ride from the center of town, Brant Point Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. It’s a perfect spot for photos and taking in the harbor views.

Gallery Hopping: Town is home to several art galleries showcasing local and international artists. It’s a great way to explore Nantucket’s vibrant arts scene and pick up unique works of art.

Live Music and Theater: Check out local venues for live music, especially during the summer months, or catch a show at the Theatre Workshop of Nantucket, which offers a variety of performances throughout the year.