Located within a Georgian house that was built in 1775, Cahoon Museum of American Art was established in 1984, primarily showcasing the works of Ralph and Martha Cahoon who were two of the most accomplished artists to hail from Massachusetts during the 19th-century. They regularly host exhibitions, boasting their collections that include creations made by artists such as William Mathew Prior, Alvan Fisher, James Buttersworth, and Levi Wells Prentice to name a few.
United States Customshouse, also known as the Donald G. Trayser Memorial Museum and the Coast Guard Museum is a heritage museum housed within a historic building that was built in 1855 by renowned 19th-century architect Ammi Burnham Young. The structure functioned as a customs duty house and a post office till 1958, by which it had been converted into a museum. Guided tours of the entire building are permitted.
Aquinnah Cultural Center is a historical and cultural museum that is a home to several exhibits of the Vanderhoop family and the tribal people of that region. This historic site consists of a living room, parlor, a kitchen, pantry, a dining room, four bedrooms and a bathroom. The house consists of relics, paintings, rare exhibits and stories of the native tribal people of the region. This historic spot is open for Tours from June until 10th October.
Once a windswept prairie formed after the last Ice Age, the Long Point Wildlife Refuge now exists as a spectacular landscape replete with beaches, coastal grasslands and shrub forests. Straddling West Tisbury's coastline, it is one of the region's most reputed nature reserves since the year 1979. Easy trails, spanning 3.37 kilometers (2.1 miles) scythe through the woodland, looping along the beachfront, offering visitors a glimpse into the reserve's unique ecosystem. Although popular with birdwatchers, one can also kayak along the beach or engage in some stand-up paddleboarding.
Madaket Beach is known for its spectacular sunsets, perfect for a photo or just enjoying the moment. Of course, plenty of visitors and residents head to Madaket during regular beach hours for sunbathing and swimming. Please note waves can be rough at times, and the lifeguards are on duty seasonally. This lovely beach is accessible via the Madaket Bike Path, which runs 5.5 miles (8.9 kilometers) from town.
Keeping with true Nantucket charm, the Aquarium is housed in a quaint, small cottage complete with inviting windowboxes and wainscotted walls. Don't let the casual appearance fool you; inside, you'll find serious information about the aquatic life found in Nantucket's saltwater marshes. Interns are on-hand to answer questions on the many varieties of crustaceans and fish found on (and around) the island. Children's activities include hands-on workshops and outdoor excursions. Check the website for more.