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.
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.
Polly Hill started growing trees and plants from seed on the family farm more than 40 years ago, and they all grew to become the island's premier natural showcase. Hill has developed numerous plants now grown around the world; including the famous North Tilsbury Azalea. At the same time she expanded the range of plants on Martha's Vineyard. The requested donation for adults is quite a reasonable amount and children 12 and under may enter for free. Lectures are held throughout the season and tour arrangements may be made in advance.
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.
This community-based theater, built in 1833, develops, produces and presents extraordinary professional performances for the entire family. A non-profit theater company, The Vineyard Playhouse Company, Inc., makes its home here and puts on stage shows, readings, educational programs and theater for both adults and children year-round. In addition, there are special events and guest appearances, festivals and benefits. See website for schedule and cost.
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 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.
Martha's Vineyard Performing Arts Center contributes majorly to the cultural scene of Martha's Vineyard Island in Oak Bluffs. Hosting an eclectic variety of events throughout the year, the theater not only showcases plays put up by the school's own students but also hosts productions of numerous theater companies. A well-equipped theater, it ensures the success of every event held here.
An utterly scenic respite tucked away from the furious buzz of the mainland, Martha's Vineyard was an erstwhile whaling town located off the Cape Cod peninsula. Now, its former whaling history is largely sidelined by its image of an idyllic summertime haven, encouraging a constant trickle of celebs, day-tripping visitors, and city slickers between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. Despite its visiting summer crowds, Martha's Vineyard's never seems unpleasantly crowded, managing to maintain its genteel veneer and deep-seated charm. With a nifty conservation initiative in place, this windswept island harbors a wealth of local gems, from farm-to-table restaurants to historic inns and locally-owned boutiques. The tree-lined towns of Edgartown and Oak Bluffs are a mere drive away, where fairy-tale gingerbread cottages, carousels, idyllic fishing piers, and historic lighthouses await.
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 about 4 miles (6.44 kilometers) from Oak Bluffs, Island Alpaca Farm is home to hundreds of gentle and cuddly alpacas. These peace-loving creatures belong to the same family as camels and llamas. The farm offers many opportunities to get to know more about alpacas. You can also adopt a cute pet here - alpacas make for great friends. Island Alpaca Farm also offers many workshops and tutorials for interested breeders. It's a great place to bring the kids and spend the day outdoors.