History Buff Getaway

Nantucket carries a long and rich history that has been written down more than 100 years before the United States even became a country. Luckily, islanders recognize the historical value of this place and work hard to preserve its legacies. Come relish Nantucket's accounts of American history; those of the first English settlers, the native Wampanoag people who greeted them, and the African Americans fleeing from the bondage of slavery who found a safe haven here on the island. No matter what kind of history captures your interest, there is one thing everyone can agree upon: Nantucket boasts a whale of a tale!

A stay at the Jared Coffin House immerses you in the 1840s culture of Nantucket without sacrificing the amenities of today. Already within the heart of downtown Nantucket, you will look out your window to see cobblestoned streets and you'll only be a short stroll from many historic sites. You'll be in awe when you visit Nantucket's Oldest House, the sole surviving structure from the island's original seventeenth-century English settlement. It was built as a wedding gift in 1686 for Jethro Coffin and Mary Gardner, whose surnames are still prevalent in Nantucket community today. You're only a few blocks from the Whaling Museum, which is a major component of the Nantucket Historical Association. Be careful to set aside several hours in your schedule; there is much to see inside the Whaling Museum!

Have lunch downtown; you're already there! Queequeg's is a quaint Nantucket Bistro that blends comfort food with Continental flavors. Wine lovers, be sure you request to see Captain Ahab's wine list! And speaking of whaling captains, you probably think you're about 170 years too late to experience an 1840s whaling bar.

Make sure you witness the old lighthouses at beaches Brant Point and Great Point. You can enjoy the view from within your vehicle, or you can get out and sink your toes into the sand. Remember that in order to drive onto any of Nantucket's drivable beaches, you need a 4x4 with a beach permit sticker. Rent a Wrangler Jeep or an SUV 4x4 from Nantucket Island Rent-A-Car, where both of these requirements are already taken care of for you! If you prefer to enjoy the sights along the way without having to keep your eyes on the road, ride The Wave to your destinations. Or even better yet, book a personalized tour of the island! Both Ara's Tours and Gail's Tours provide you with an experienced island guide who will show you some of Nantucket's most remarkable sites.

Love antiques? Nantucket is full of 'em! Browse a sea of treasures at the handful of antique shops on-island, or enjoy the live auctioning of antiquated maritime objects. Nantucket Lightship Baskets are an art form that originated on Nantucket, or, more accurately, offshore Nantucket.  These exquisite baskets were originally made by the crew of the Nantucket Lightship. You can learn about their history and see dozens of gorgeous examples at the Nantucket Lightship Basket Museum, at 49 Union Street.

 But to literally taste Nantucket, head to Bartlett's Oceanview Farm, an island fixture with delicious perks to boot! The Bartlett family has been farming the Nantucket soil for nearly 200 years. Go ahead and savor the flavors of their old-fashioned organic goodness as you learn the farm's intriguing story. Pick up a quick snack, a freshly prepared takeout meal, or just a bag of farm-fresh veggies.

Water activities have been part of island life from the beginning of Nantucket's history, from whaling to sailing. On that note, you won't want to miss the Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum, which brings visitors a special, new exhibit every year. And of course, you'll want to get out on the water yourself, too! Get acquainted with Nantucket's maritime history and see sights along the waterfront by booking a charter with Endeavor Sailing Excursions.

Come dinnertime sixty years ago, and anyone would have told you to head to 80 Centre Street for the best food. You'll find American Seasons at the exact site where your grandparents would have found Nantucket's beloved North Shore Restaurant that operated as an island favorite for more than forty years. Today American Seasons, though very chic, has stayed true to the simple values of using only fresh, local, in-season food. This creative spot on Centre Street will beckon you back for more just as it did the days of the North Shore. Figs at 29 Fair is just a short stroll from Main Street in a building that dates back to 1709. You'll feel you're dining during Nantucket's finest times gone by as you enjoy the famed cuisine of chef Todd English aside the original brick fireplaces, exposed beams, and antique sconces at Figs.