A Day at the Museums

11/07/2023

Whaling Museum

One of the most popular attractions on this island is the Whaling Museum. The museum offer exhibits and artifacts going back to the whaling days, a critical part of the foundation of this island. Don’t miss the nearly 50-foot male whale fossil hanging from the ceiling! They are open year round and offer various discounts and passes. For more information, please visit their website.

Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum

The Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum offers exhibits of Nantucket history related to shipwrecks and lifesaving efforts. They have guided tours, family activities, and a beautiful outdoor space for your enjoyment. Family activities include rope-making, knot-tying, and building your own boat! For more information, please visit their website.

Loines Observatory

If Astronomy interests you, you will want to check out the Loines Observatory, part of the Maria Mitchell Association. The observatory consists of two domes which house antique telescopes. Join workshops to learn how to read the stars or attend a Stargazing Open Night to discover the galaxy. For more information, please visit their website.

Museum of African American History

This museum is located in the African Meeting House, which was the only building occupied by African Americans in Nantucket in the 1800s. The museum offers cultural exhibits, programs, showings, and a Black Heritage Trail on select days. For more information, please visit their website.

Nantucket Lightship Basket Museum

The Lightship Basket Museum first opened in 1997 and has since worked to preserve the island’s history of lightship baskets. Lightship baskets were used to as a miniature lighthouse on whaling boats to prevent shipwrecks. Along with exhibitions, this museum also offers crafting classes for all ages. For more information, please visit their website.