High atop the beautiful cliffs of Gay Head rests a magnificent lighthouse. It has been operational since 1799 and stands at a height of 51 feet (15 meters). In the year 2015 due to erosion problems, it was necessary to move the lighthouse 129 feet (39 meters) back from where it was originally built. From the top of the lighthouse you can still enjoy beautiful views of the sea, the Aquinnah cliffs and nearby areas. The lighthouse is open seasonally and is open to public only during designated hours, hence it is advisable to call before visiting.
A rustic, bright red barn is home to this popular gallery, which houses work by a number of internationally recognized artists, including the famous photographers Margaret Bourke-White, Carl Mydans, and Alfred Eisenstaedt. The gallery is known for its weekly Sunday afternoon receptions with featured artists in the courtyard sculpture garden. In addition to paintings and sculptures, the gallery offers antiques as well. Artwork may be ordered from the gallery's website but a visit to its ever-changing collection is recommended.
When you're on Martha's Vineyard and craving a pint, stop by the Offshore Ale Company for a locally-brewed beer and a bite to eat. The menu features all sorts of pub favorites like seafood, burgers and pizza, including a never-ending supply of peanuts. There's always live music and special events, so check out their schedule for the latest goings-on. Don't forget to toss those peanut shells directly on the floor - it's encouraged!
This state park in Vineyard Haven is truly a natural wonder. The park consists of more than 5,000 acres (2,023 hectares) and is located in the center of the island. In the early 20th century, the park was established as a reserve dedicated towards the protection of Heath hens, a now extinct, specie of the Greater prairie chicken family. Today, the park is used for recreational purposes such as hiking, cross country skiing, cycling, horseback riding and more. There are picnic areas, rest rooms and showers available. A large environmental restoration project is underway in an attempt to revive the native grassland ecosystem.
The Martha's Vineyard Museum and Historical Society is devoted to the history and culture of this small Massachusetts island. Explore the island's fascinating past and learn about the people who lived here. The historical society first came together in 1922. Today, the museum and society are housed in historical buildings that are wonderful to walk through. Visitors to this museum can trace back their ancestry through the Historical Society's extensive genealogical services. There are special exhibits, classes, seminars, workshops, and movies hosted here throughout the year.
This breathtaking stretch of barrier shoreline and adjacent upland marshes, forests and grasslands offers a protected habitat to dozens of species of wildlife, especially nesting waterfowl. Located on Chappaquiddick Island, it is reachable by boat or, at certain times and with the proper permits, over-sand vehicles. During summer, guided tours can be booked with a naturalist through the Islands Regional Office. The beach is open to everyone, but regulated by the Trustees of Reservations. No camping is permitted.
North Shore Charters offers avid fishing fans and sportsmen a great way to enjoy a day out on the water. Located on the island of Martha's Vineyard, Menemsha, a fishing village has a long history of charter fishing. North Shore Charters conducts both inshore and off shore trips for the best chances to experience a fulfilling trip. With the inshore option anglers looking to catch bluefish and striped bass can charter the boat for half day at USD650 or full day at USD1300; while off shore fishing expeditions of up to 10 hours are offered for tuna, marlin, mahi mahi and shark. For both experienced anglers as well as family and group outings, the company is perfect for a fun day out or big game fishing. The charter is operated from May to October.
The Martha’s Vineyard Sharks are the 2013 champions of the Futures League. They play their home games at the Vineyard Baseball Park, alternately known as “The Shark Tank,” on the campus of Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. The playing field was built specifically for the Sharks, and is one of only two full sized baseball diamonds on the island of Martha’s Vineyard. The ownership of the Sharks have invested $415,000 in the building of the field and improvements to the facility. Before serving as home to the Sharks, the Cape Cod League would hold a few games per season on the island.
Situated among blooming daffodils, lilies and many more flowers is Sphor Gardens. Created originally Margaret and Charles D. Spohr around their house, this garden welcomes visitors all year round. Welcome the season spring with the beauty of daffodils or simply sit by the oyster pond and enjoy the cool breeze. There are also other events such as face painting, a wishing tree and many more. The place is perfect for a day out and reconnecting with your family and loved ones.
Martha's Vineyard Arena is a multi-sport arena located in Oak Bluffs. The structure primarily serves as a year-round skating and hockey facility, complete with Pro shop for all your skating needs. There are adult skating, hockey and free ice times as well as children's leagues and activities throughout the year. Check website for public skating schedule.
Located at the historic Katama Farm, the Farm Institute is set amidst the rare and beautiful sandplain grasslands of Martha's Vineyard. This working farm rears cattle, sheep, chickens and pigs, enabling them to sell farm-fresh meat, eggs and dairy year round, at their farm stand in summer and at the farmstead office in winter. The Farm Institute organizes a set of inspired educational programs throughout the year for adults, teens and children alike, teaching the principles of teamwork, work ethics and environmental consciousness, alongside the practical application of science, maths, art and other theoretical subjects, through farm work. The Institute also features two walking trails and offers insightful guided tours of the farm. Stop by the farm stand or the farmstead office to purchase farm-fresh produce and learn more about the Institute and their work.