The Old Mill, which was built in 1746, had been sold twice before it was auctioned off in 1897 when the NHA paid $885 for it.

The ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) recognized the Old Mill as a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark in 1992.

Nantucketers of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries relied on cornmeal mush to complement their meals of mutton or chowder. It is thought to be the oldest American windmill still in continuous operation, and it still grinds grain into cornmeal today.

The mill has undergone some maintenance over the years, and after major renovations in 1930, 1936, and 1983, it can once again grind maize just as it did 250 years ago.

Corn is grown in such great quantity and economic importance on this island that there was five windmills to grind the crop.

The Anniversary Celebration

The Nantucket Historical Association (NHA) would like to extend an invitation to the general public to attend a presentation about the history of harvest time on the island as well as one of the most notable historical monuments on Nantucket.

This event will take place in the Old Mill, 50 Prospect Street, on Saturday, October 22, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The program will also commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Old Mill’s acquisition by the organization in 1897. Everyone will have free access to the festivity.

Participants are invited to take part in activities that explore the working of the mill, such as demonstrations and an artifact table, as well as crafts that feature the mill and use maize byproducts.

During this ceremony, the NHA will be joined by the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe in order to discuss a wide variety of local harvest rites. The locally-owned Snick Snack truck will sell attendees special cornmeal-based nibbles.

Are you in Nantucket and have no idea where to take your dog for a morning, afternoon, or evening stroll? If your dog loves exploring unique trails, then below are some of the best places to consider taking your canine companion for that relieving walk or run.

1. Sanford Farm & Ram Pasture

This trail is among the most popular and highly rated Nantucket Conservation Foundation properties. It has well-marked trails, beautiful vistas, and ocean views.

Also, you might be lucky to see turtles, osprey, hawks, and other wildlife in season. Sanford Farm makes a very versatile choice. You can keep it to a fast 1.7-mile loop or a longer 3.1-mile trek.

If you are in a more jolly mood and your dog needs a lot of exercise, it makes for a beautiful 6-mile adventure, taking you out of the island’s southern shoreline. You may ride your bike while your dog runs alongside you or put it in a basket.

In the summer, Hummock Pond has reported the presence of algae, which pose a hazard to dogs. It would be best not to allow your dog to drink from the pond. It is also worth noting that there are no public restrooms, telephones, or water fountains on this trail.

2. Tupancy Links

If you have a thirst for the Sanford Farm beauty and views but have no time for a 6-mile stretch, Tupancy Links is the perfect compromise.

Originally a 9-hole golf club, the area now features an easy-to-follow 1.5 miles of marked trails that run through several of the course’s old holes. Looking closely, you can still see some greens and tee box outlines.

Tupancy Links is now mostly used for dog exercises as it provides wide open spaces for games of fetch. While at it, you can admire the picturesque views of Nantucket’s north shore.

Nonetheless, you are to carry a leash around the cliff; following it is very steep. Also, to preserve the area’s cleanliness, you should clean up after your fur baby.

3. Squam Swamp

This gem should definitely feature on your list of beautiful places to walk your pup. As the name suggests, this spot is much more enclosed, dense, and wet than the famous Sanford and Tupancy Links. Due to its lush nature, you must keep your dog on a leash to avoid getting separated.

You will be wise to follow the numbered post that directs and lead you through the 1.75-mile loop trail along mowed grassy fields. It winds past the sheep pastures, leading to the sheep habitat. Some humans live here too.

Along the course, you come across portions of deciduous forests, over boardwalks traversing boggy streams, and big bunches of grapes. If you happen to visit during the spring season, you will be in for the treat of seeing flocks of sheep running through the pasture.

Squam Swamp may not offer the view of ocean vistas as some other trails may, but it has thousands of green ferns and glamorous bogs that are rare on the island.

4. ‘Sconset Bluff Walk

This path is not easy to find, but it is worth exploring. It begins at Front Street near the ‘Sconset Market and takes you along the bluff overlooking the sandy beach. On your left, you will find some of the most delightful waterfront homes in Sconset. They feature perfectly manicured lawns and gardens.

Keeping your dog on a leash would be best, considering you are strolling in the resident’s backyard. Here you have perfectly manicured lawns and gardens to admire.

Over the years, the walking terrain has been cut short due to erosion, so once you meet an abrupt dead end, it is advisable to turn back.

5. Masquetuck Trail

This trail is a short one but is not easy to overlook. It has views of West Polpis Harbor that are worth the trek. You can take on any of the paths, to the end, without the risk of getting lost.

On your way, you’ll come across a deciduous forest with ferns, mushrooms, and many mossy tree roots.

In some places, the trail ends up on the Polpis Harbor shores. If the tide is low, you have the opportunity and option of walking along the beach for a while, or you may choose to stay on the trail and take in the beautiful harbor view.

6. Windswept Bogs

There is more to love than hate on your walk here, from different lengths of the walk, a variety of terrains, from active bee hives and cranberries, to a great pond. If you want, this can be a long walk.

Considering your energy level and program, you may take whatever loops and paths you want. The circles and tracks allow your dog to do long straight runs to release some pent-up energy.

The Stump Pond trail leads you into the forest along the right side. The pond is a fun, boggy, tree-rooted, tangled saunter. The best time for a walk along this pond is the fall when the leaves are turning on the deciduous trees and mosquitoes are dormant. On the left side of the Stump Pond, you experience the never-ending moor walk.

Leash Alert: The bogs nearest Polpis Road as you start or end your walk are very close to houses. Some of the residents have flocks of chickens, guinea fowls, or both. Keep your dog close if they have a habit of chasing after poultry.

Also note that, at specified times of the year, the bogs are usually closed due to flooding or pesticide application.

Final Thoughts

Your dog’s daily walk is likely one of the highlights of their day. Walking your canine friend can give them more than just the essential bathroom break. It can give them the advantage of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and a chance to keep tabs on what’s happening in the neighborhood.

Nantucket is beautiful and a great place to adventure with your furry friend. There are over 12,000 acres of open space to explore, and it might probably take you a year to explore them all. The above are great places for starters.

The holiday season is fast approaching, and it is never too early to plan how to spend it. If you are looking for an awesome place to spend Christmas, why not consider Nantucket? It is a leading vacation destination with plenty of niceties.

Many assume that Nantucket is only lively in summer and bows down during winter. We prove this assumption wrong by presenting you with things to enjoy when you decide to spend Christmas in Nantucket.

Preparation For Your Nantucket Christmas

Preparation is crucial when planning a trip. As usual, have your finances in order. Have a rough budget that factors in your transportation, accommodation, sightseeing, food, and more. You can consult a traveling agency for a financial estimate.

Also, you may consider getting a vacation rental, especially if traveling as a group, maybe with family or friends. Vacation rentals are abundant in Nantucket and are spacious. Plus, they have facilities like a gym, Wi-Fi, cable, and swimming pools that make your stay worthwhile.

Furthermore, you should decide on how to move to and within Nantucket. You may travel solo if you love the flexibility and know your way on the island. Alternatively, you can go for group tours, where you can interact with other tourists. Group tours are excellent if you are new to the island, as you are under a guide who will show you the fine things tucked in Nantucket.

Also, have the proper clothing. You will need warm wear to deal with Nantucket winters.

Things To Do In Nantucket For Christmas

The following are some ways to spend your Christmas holidays in Nantucket.

Participate In the Festival Of Trees

Every year, the Nantucket Whaling Museum transforms into a winter holiday artwork, courtesy of the Festival of Trees. The display is an impressive spectacle that can awaken your family’s Christmas spirit.

You can take photos of the trees crafted by various businesses, artists, children, and other organizations. Each tree has a unique theme, making the museum colorful and lively. Buy a ticket as early as possible to book your reservation for this festival.

The Nantucket Christmas Stroll

If you make it to Nantucket in early December, you may be in time to participate in the annual Nantucket Christmas Stroll. It is a 2-3-day event that has been around since 1973, celebrated after Thanksgiving, and dedicated to holiday shopping on this island.

The Christmas Stroll is a fun-filled affair, ideal if you are holidaying with your family or friends. Craft shows, performances, singing carolers, and special dinner offers are some of this event’s highlights. Dress appropriately and hit the streets to be part of the Christmas Stroll.

Appreciate Nantucket’s History

If you love history, you can spend your holiday learning more about this island. Begin your Nantucket history appreciation quest by visiting the Whaling Museum. As mentioned earlier, this museum is the venue for Nantucket’s Festival of Trees. Apart from the fantastic display of Christmas trees, you can check out the eleven galleries and the many artifacts collected that are centuries old.

The other establishment to check on is the Museum of African American History. It is one of the largest museums in New England and is home to more than 3000 items that showcase the history of African Americans. This museum holds several events and exhibitions.

Do not conclude your history appreciation tour without visiting the Nantucket Lightship Basket Museum, the Jethro Coffin House, and the Historic Mitchell House. Confirm the opening times and buy a ticket to visit these museums.

Time For Christmas Shopping

Christmas shopping is a crucial part of celebrating the holidays. Nantucket has several shopping hubs that you can check out. The Christmas Stroll is an excellent time to shop as you can get impressive discounts from various stores.

Downtown Nantucket is home to various apparel stores that stock designer items. The stores include Stephanie’s, where you can peruse bags, purses, footwear, and rugs. Salt Boutique is the place to be for dresses, jumpsuits, shoes, loungewear, and jewelry.

For kids’ shopping, you have Peachtree Kids, where you get boys, girls, and baby clothing. The store deals in renowned brands like See Kai Run, Angel Dear, and Hatley. Pinwheels and Murray’s Toggery Shop are other places to pass by for children’s stuff.

Enjoy Refreshments At Cisco Brewers

After a long day exploring the island, you can sit down for a couple of drinks at Cisco Brewers. This joint has a calm ambiance that will have you feeling at home. You can sample the drinks, like a mug of beer, a glass of wine, cocktails, and hard teas.

The live music is incredible, and you may make friends as you pass the time. Cisco Brewers also holds festivals on its grounds. You might be lucky and bump into one of them, an assurance of a fun-filled moment.

Dining

Nantucket’s cuisine is impressive, primarily featuring seafood – your taste buds will have a rush if you love seafood. You can start your Nantucket culinary trip by checking in to The Downyflake for breakfast. It is a family-owned establishment that has been around for over 87 years and is famous for its tasty doughnuts.

Apart from the doughnuts, you may try the blueberry scones, raspberry brambles, or Scotch Irish cake. You may go savory for breakfast and order hash and eggs, ham and beans, or biscuit and sausage gravy. Pick a preferred beverage from coffee, freshly squeezed juice, and hot chocolate.

For lunch, the Corner Table Café is perfect for a satisfying platter of roasted salmon, garlic thyme steak, curry chicken salad, or sesame noodles. This establishment also holds parties and events.

Straight Wharf and CRU are some of the best places for fine dining. Moreover, you may visit the Island Kitchen, The Green, and Crosswinds Restaurant for a taste of Nantucket’s exemplary cuisine.

Fishing

While winter is not the best time to fish in Nantucket, a trial won’t hurt. It is an excellent pastime activity that can be great for bonding with your family over a cup of hot chocolate and other snacks.

The go-to fishing spots on this island include Brant Point, Madaket Harbor, North Atlantic, Great Point, and Nantucket Sound.

Luck may be on your side, ending up with the false albacore, striped bass, mahi mahi, bonito, or bluefish tuna. Have a local guide lead you through to improve your success rate.

A Photography Session

You should carry a camera when visiting Nantucket, as there are plenty of memories and monuments to capture. If you are into photography, you will fancy shots of the beach. During winter, the beaches have low traffic, and you can have a clear shot of the icy-looking ocean.

The lighthouses are photography-worthy spots that you must visit while on the island. The three distinct-looking lighthouses in Nantucket are Brant Point, Sankaty, and Great Point.

Moreover, capture the city center, which looks exotic courtesy of its architecture.

Conclusion

Nantucket is vibrant all year round, including the winter. It is a great destination for your Christmas holidays, with several activities for you to join in. You are sure of a fun and memorable vacation, especially if you are with your family.

Plan early for your Christmas vacation in Nantucket for a fulfilling time.

Nantucket, MA, is an island that feels like no other. Its isolated location and picturesque destination spots make for a unique getaway.

Did you know it’s only 30 minutes by ferry from the Wharf in Boston? If you plan your trip to Nantucket accordingly, you can spend a fun day exploring this charming, historic island.

Here are some tips for a fantastic day trip in Nantucket.

What To Know Before Planning A Day Trip To Nantucket

Cost: Nantucket can be expensive when many people visit in the summer. To take advantage of the traffic, most business entities surge their prices. So, knowing when to make your trip is vital.

Parking: If you are planning to drive on the island, we suggest finding parking in advance. There is limited parking on the island, but you can park your car at the Wharf and take the ferry.

Weather: It is partially cloudy all year round, with warm, humid, and windy summers and cold, wet, and severely windy winters. The average yearly temperature varies from 26 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and rarely falls below 14 or go above 81.

Activities for kids: Kids will love the beautiful beaches and the charming downtown area with shops and restaurants. They can also visit museums and other attractions geared toward children.

When to go: Nantucket is lovely year-round, but there are crowds during the summer. If you want to make the best of your trip, go during the off-season months of March, April, September, and October. The island is less packed, and the charges are more reasonable.

Where To Explore

There are many places you can go in Nantucket, including:

• The Cobblestone Streets

Exploring the historic downtown area is a must-do during any trip to Nantucket. It’s an eclectic and charming place that feels old-fashioned and quaint. You can trek up and down the neighborhood and admire the old buildings. You can also visit the many stores or halt at a cafe for a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

• The Beaches

Nantucket’s beaches are its main attraction during summer. While most beaches in the US are crowded and chaotic, Nantucket’s beaches are much more serene and peaceful.

• The Wharf Area

The area is lively and has plenty of restaurants, shops, and other attractions. You can walk along the pier and watch the boats come in and out of the harbor. You can also tour the port in a boat or take an excursion to a nearby island.

• The Museums

There are several museums on Nantucket that are worth visiting. We suggest visiting the Nantucket Whaling Museum, the Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum, and the Maria Mitchell Association.

• The Shops And Boutiques

Like most New England towns, the shops on Nantucket are quaint, unique, and full of treasures. You can find various things such as clothing, books, gifts, and souvenirs.

• The Cemeteries

If you’re interested in history, you can stroll through the Prospect Hill Cemetery and learn more about the people who have been on Nantucket for generations.

Where To Eat

As you walk around the charming cobblestone streets of downtown Nantucket, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafes. You can head to the Wharf if you want to eat traditional New England seafood and more upscale food.

If you wish for more off-the-beaten-path places to eat, you can explore the side streets away from the main boulevard. You’ll find plenty of well-hidden gems that not only offer delicious meals but are also budget-friendly.

Last Minute Tips

If you’re planning to visit Nantucket during the summer, rent a vacation home near Wharf. It’s near the harbor and other major attractions and activities in this area.

The Steamship Authority has an auto ferry that travels roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes from Hyannis to Nantucket harbor. However, prepare to pay an eye-popping $400 R/T, excluding passenger fees, to get your car to the island.

Plan Your Perfect Weekend Getaway Today!

Oh, and one more thing. Don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars because there are so many worthy places to explore on Nantucket. The island is full of hidden areas worth touring.

We hope our guide to the perfect day trip to Nantucket was helpful. Nantucket is a unique and wonderful place to visit, and we hope you can make it there soon!

Many people take a break from touring during fall to recover from a fantastic summer vacation and prepare for the forthcoming holiday season. However, you might have a different schedule or want a good time before the holidays. If this describes you, Nantucket is a place to consider for your fall vacation.

Also known as the Grey Lady of the Sea, the island has something to offer all year round. Read on to learn about the Nantucket fall experience.

Why Visit Nantucket During Fall?

Visiting Nantucket during fall may seem strange, as it peaks its vibrancy in summer. While summer is an excellent time to visit, you must contend with the heavy traffic. People come in droves during summer to explore Nantucket, which may lead to the scarcity of accommodation and other necessities. There’s also a hike in the prices of commodities.

Fall has less traffic, which is ideal if you do not like overcrowded places. Furthermore, it is affordable to travel during the fall due to the price drops. Getting accommodation and other amenities will be hassle-free.

What To Do During Fall In Nantucket

While it is less vibrant than summer, fall is still an exciting time to explore the island. The following are some of the things you can do when you finally set foot in Nantucket.

1. Visit The Whaling Museum

Start your Nantucket exploration quest by learning more about it. There is no better place to learn about this island than the Nantucket Whaling Museum. The museum preserves Nantucket’s economic past, focusing on the whaling industry and candle making.

It is a fascinating place to visit if you are into history. Key attractions include a 46-foot-long whale skeleton, the scrimshaw collection, Neptune’s Grotto, and the Hadwen and Barney Oil and Candle Factory.

The Museum of African American History, the Quaker Meeting House, and the Nantucket Lightship Basket Museum are other establishments to visit to appreciate Nantucket’s history.

2. Cranberry Harvesting

Fall is synonymous with harvesting. While in Nantucket during fall, you can participate in cranberry harvesting, a huge part of this island’s culture. The harvest is an excellent pastime activity, especially if you are with family or friends, making for a worthy bonding time.

Have fun in the bogs as you gather cranberries or join the farm tours. A live band will keep you entertained if you don’t want to get your hands dirty in the fields.

3. Golfing

Enjoy your Nantucket vacation by golfing. Nantucket has four golf courses, two private and two public, where you can test and improve your strikes.

The public golf courses are Miacomet and Sconset. The former, an 18-hole course, was the co-host of the 2021 Mid-Amateur Championship, boasting excellent facilities. Sconset is one of the oldest US golf courses, operational since 1899.

Sankaty Head Golf Club is a private establishment with an imposing backdrop of the Sankaty Lighthouse. It co-hosted the 2021 Mid-Amateur Championship. Nantucket Golf Club is a private members-only course with a traditional golfing design.

4. Fishing

September and October are the best months for fishing in Nantucket. Fishing is therapeutic and creates an incredible bonding moment with family or friends. You need a guide or a fishing charter to lead you on for a successful catch.

During fall, you can catch mahi mahi, false albacore, bluefin tuna, bonito, striped bass, and bluefish. Celebrate your success by having a sumptuous dinner with your loved ones.

5. Visit The Lighthouses

The three lighthouses in Nantucket are a stark reminder of its maritime significance as a shipbuilding and whaling hub. The monuments are the Great Point, Sankaty Head and Brant Point lighthouses. They are distinct and give the surrounding areas a touch of exoticness.

You must visit the lighthouses and take photos to etch memories of the fantastic time you had on this island.

6. Scalloping

If you love seafood, you must try the famed Nantucket Bay scallops, which are tastier than the regular ocean type. If you are a hands-on person, you will enjoy scalloping in Nantucket, where you get into the water to harvest scallops.

The harvesting season begins in October and runs until March. You need a permit to harvest scallops, with recreational scalloping going from Wednesday to Thursday.

7. Surfing

You should not pass up the opportunity to surf in Nantucket, especially if you want a dash of adrenaline while vacationing. Fall is the perfect time to surf, as there is less traffic on the beaches, and the water is warm. Additionally, it is hurricane season, meaning you can catch the perfect wave.

Do not shy away if you are a novice surfer; the many surfing schools around the island can help you improve your skills.

8. Biking

No overbearing summer heat and a calm breeze; the ideal conditions for biking. You can rent a bike and enjoy a ride as you explore Nantucket. It is an excellent way to exercise or hike as you take on various trails. Take advantage of the blissful moment by bringing along your loved ones.

9. Dining

Nantucket has plenty of culinary wonders that you should explore. You will love this island’s cuisine if you are into seafood. You can visit Black-Eyed Susan’s for a sumptuous breakfast or dinner. The breakfast menu is diverse, featuring the typical eggs and ham and the adventurous Spicy Thai and Portuguese scramble.

For dinner, try the samosa crepe, ham and cheese, or organic baby kale salad as an appetizer. Entrees include steelhead trout, grilled swordfish, and soy-braised heritage pork.

Pass by Siam to Go for Thai food. Try lomein, pad Thai, drunken noodles, sesame noodles, or the various sandwiches on the menu. This restaurant also handles deliveries.

Cisco Brewers is the place to be in the late afternoons for refreshments. Share beers, cocktails, wine, hard tea, and other beverages with other revelers, with live band music playing in the background.

Head to Straight Wharf, Toppers, or American Season for fine dining.

10. A Walk On The Beach

Free yourself from any tension or stress by taking a walk on the beach. The sandy beaches are calm and suitable for a therapeutic walk. A stroll with your significant other will create unforgettable romantic moments, especially in the evenings as the sun sets.

Summary

With fall almost at its peak, it is the best time to leave the house and go for a short vacation. Nantucket is a perfect destination, welcoming you to amazing weather, scenic beaches, and excellent food.

It is not too late to explore The Little Gray Lady of the Sea. Pack your bags and be ready for several fun-filled activities, as highlighted in this article.

Nantucket, a town off the coast of Massachusetts, comes alive in the summertime with plenty of beach-goers and a thriving surf scene. The sunsets over the waves are breathtaking, and the stars shining down on the water are like diamonds.

The waves on the South Coast are prevalent in the autumn and winter when the light hits them just right. In addition, there is potential for novelty surfing on the Island. People have surfed ferry waves on Nantucket, and periodically, images of breaking frozen Slurpee waves during the winter surface on the internet.

But before you embark on the road to Nantucket, read on to learn more about the waves in this lovely beach town.

Are The Nantucket Waves Safe For Surfing?

This season’s Nantucket surf report calls for waves in the 3-4 foot range with light to moderate offshore winds. The water is currently about 57 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s definitely on the chilly side.

The waves are clean and glassy, making for some excellent conditions. So whether you’re a skilled surfer or a beginner, go out there and enjoy the waves!

Where To Find Waves In Nantucket

Nantucket is a world-famous surfing destination with the best waves. For gentle waves, go to north shore beaches like Brant Point, Dionis, Steps Beach, and Jetties.

The South Shore boasts perfect waves for professionals, making these beaches the most popular surfing hotspot. Surfers usually crowd the Madaquecham, Cisco, Nobadeer, and Madaket beaches, but if you’re willing to walk a little further, it’s easy to find your perfect peak to surf.

For a beginner-friendly experience, Surfside Beach is the best, and for a more challenging experience, visit Cisco Beach. But as it may seem formidable, there is a lifeguard at Cisco to ensure you stay safe.

Other Ways To Enjoy The Nantucket Waves

The Nantucket waves offer a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. You can:

1. Catch Some Waves Through Boogie Boarding

Boogie boarding is an excellent way to appreciate the waves without swimming too far. It’s also a great workout; you’ll use your arms and legs to paddle out and catch the waves.

2. Explore The Ocean Through Paddle Boarding

It is a peaceful way to get up close and personal with the ocean. You can paddle around for hours and take in the sights and sounds of the ocean wildlife.

3. Challenge Yourself Through Surf Fishing

Test your skills as a fisherman. You’ll need to cast your line into the waves and then reel in your catch.

And if you’re looking for more adventure, you can go kayaking, windsurfing, or kitesurfing. Whether you want to enjoy adrenaline-filled activities like surfing or relax on the beach, there is something for everyone in Nantucket.

There’s Nothing As Beautiful As The Nantucket Waves!

The waves in Nantucket are some of the most beautiful in the world. They crash against the shore, sending up a spray of salty water that sparkles in the sunlight. The waves’ sounds are soothing, and their sight is mesmerizing. Believe it or not, you could spend hours watching the waves in Nantucket.

So, if you’re looking for a new place to surf with great potential for exciting waves, check out Nantucket!