Nantucket on a Rainy Day
What to do on Nantucket if it Rains
We understand. You’ve been looking forward to your trip to Nantucket, you spent so much time planning, and now there is rain in the forecast. Do not fear! Precipitation will not rain on your Nantucket parade!
Here are some rainy-day suggestions to make the most of your day on the Little Grey Lady:
Visit a Downtown Museum
Whether rain or shine, the Nantucket Whaling Museum is a “must do” on Nantucket. Located downtown, within a short walking, this is a great place to start your Nantucket adventure. No place celebrates the island’s whaling history more than the Nantucket Whaling Museum, a world-class institution which was renovated in 2005. The centerpiece of its exhibit is a jaw-dropping skeleton of a 46-foot sperm whale, which washed up on ‘Sconset Beach in 1997. Compare that to the diminutive 28-foot whaleboat located directly underneath and you’ll get a sense of the danger Nantucket’s earliest inhabitants faced on the high seas. A trip to the museum will captivate those young and old, serving as a reminder of just how important whaling was to this 15-mile long island that inspired Herman Melville to pen Moby-Dick.
At the Maria Mitchell Association, Nantucket’s Science Center, visitors will be inspired by Maria Mitchell, America’s first professional female astronomer who was trusted by sailors at the age of 14 to do vital navigational computations for their whaling expeditions in the 1830s. In 1902, the Maria Mitchell Association was founded to honor her work, which included the discovery of a comet named 1847 VI that was later dubbed “Miss Mitchell’s Comet.” The Association is home to the museum, which boasts two astronomical observatories.
Chill in the Stacks
Looking for some dry, quiet relaxation? Check out the beautiful Nantucket Atheneum! As Nantucket’s free public library, and one of the most beautiful buildings in town, this is a must visit. Spend some time browsing the selection of books or enjoy the multiple programs they offer daily. Fun Fact: Maria Mitchell was the Atheneum’s first librarian at the age of 19, a position she held for 20 years.
The Wheels on the Bus
Hop onboard and get out of the rain on a narrated bus tour of the island! We, of course, recommend Nantucket Island Tours. Their friendly, local island tour guides will take you away from downtown on an island adventure to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the island, all while sharing noteworthy historical and contemporary facts about the island.
If you’re looking for something less structured and more self-cultivated, the Nantucket Regional Transit Authority or NRTA Wave offers public bus transportation to many locations on the island. And, thanks to support from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation your ride is FREE!
Both of these bus options can be found downtown on Washington Street, a short walk from where we dock.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
There are numerous, charming local shops and boutiques in the downtown area. From fine retail shops to art galleries to jewelers, the Nantucket shopping experience does not disappoint. A must-stop on your shopping adventure is Murray’s Toggery. Family owned since 1945, Murray’s is the Home of the original Nantucket Reds ™ This iconic canvas has come to identify the island’s charming culture. More favorite, one-of-a-kind shops include Pinwheels, Milly & Grace, STOKE ACK, Four Winds Gifts, Nantucket Looms, Blue Beetle, Haul Over, the Sunken Ship, Hospital Thrift and Aunt Leah’s Fudge.
Sprinkle the Sustenance
On the islands, freshness is the name of the game. Nantucket’s rich fishing and shell fishing community inspire a movement that celebrates locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors. Explore menus featuring fresh produce, scratch made ingredients, and day boat seafood, all expertly prepared by talented chefs. From cozy pubs serving up comfort food classics to elegant eateries showcasing innovative culinary creations, each restaurant offers a unique dining experience that highlights the region’s abundance and delicious creativity.
If the Rain Only Dampens Your Spirit a Little
For an out-of-town adventure, walk on up to Federal Street and hop on the red passenger van emblazoned with the Cisco logo (it’s a free ride) and make your way from the downtown area to the ever-popular Cisco Brewers. In some circles, it has been called the happiest place on earth. Cisco, for many, is the destination of their Nantucket trip – the main attraction. With a brewery, winery and distillery on property, Cisco is located out of town next to Bartlett’s Farm. The vibe is chill and friendly. Everyone hangs out, enjoys the laid-back farm atmosphere with their families, brings their dog, plays games, enjoys live music and amazing food truck eats. The sun is always shining at Cisco, regardless of what your weather app says.
Regardless of any rain, Nantucket offers plenty of opportunities for a memorable visit. With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy a delightful rainy-day experience on this charming little island.
