The renowned Sankaty Head Light is a prominent lighthouse that is constructed on Nantucket Island in Siasconset, Massachusetts. This 60-foot (18-meter) lighthouse was first lit in the year 1850, and it is still operational, though now it is automated. The towering lighthouse was incorporated into the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. The grounds are open to the public, but visitors can not enter the lighthouse.
Spermaceti is a substance derived from whales that were once used to make candles. This converted 1846 candle factory is now home to a museum about Nantucket's whaling history - and it's an excursion that can not be missed. It features a tremendous collection of artifacts, including the skeleton of a 46-foot sperm whale, the 16-foot (5-meter) glass prism from Sankaty Head Light, portraits of sea captains, a large scrimshaw collection, and so much more!
Keeping the island's history alive is the goal of the Nantucket Historical Association. Many of the museums and historical sites on Nantucket fall under the NHA's umbrella, which makes it an excellent place to start when taking a tour of the island. Purchase a membership to receive admission to all of the NHA's sites and immerse yourself in the island's past. Individual memberships provide far more benefits other than just museum entrance fees.
Tupancy Links is a 73 acre(0.3 square kilometre) property managed by the Nantucket Conservation Foundation. Open till sunset, it is a wonderful park, open to everyone, especially popular among dog walkers. There are a number of designated trails for the nature enthusiast as well as lots of opportunities for bird-watching. If one is an avid horticulturist, it also provides the perfect atmosphere to study plants native to the area. If you're lucky, you could even spot some local wildlife, like cottontail rabbits and deer. If you climb up to the cliff, you have a chance to observe the panoramic beauty of the North Shore, which offers incredible photo opportunities.
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.
Let's face it! There's only so much sunlight and heat that you can take before it gets a bit much. Luckily, situated in the heart of Nantucket is the Nantucket Atheneum, also known as the Public Library. The cards are free if you're a Nantucket resident or property owner and five dollars if you're neither. The Atheneum offers weekly and monthly story events for children in Gallery or Garden. Check the calendar for details and times.