{"id":71832,"date":"2022-04-13T06:46:03","date_gmt":"2022-04-13T10:46:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/?p=71832"},"modified":"2025-09-02T03:00:26","modified_gmt":"2025-09-02T07:00:26","slug":"best-time-to-visit-nantucket-what-to-do-there","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/71832\/best-time-to-visit-nantucket-what-to-do-there\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Time to Visit Nantucket &#038; What To Do There"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nantucket draws in vacationers like a magnet with stunning natural wonders exceeding our wildest dreams. From sprawling beaches to exotic cultures and spectacular topography, the scenic island oozes sultry charms that will bring you back again.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re planning to tick <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nantucket-ma.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nantucket<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> off your bucket list, you must know which months are the best to visit for a one-of-a-kind vacation experience.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Normally, Nantucket brims with exciting sights and activities year-round. However, each season has its own appealing factor!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best time to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.congdonandcoleman.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">plan your Nantucket vacation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is from March through to April (spring) and from September to October (Autumn). The island is pleasantly crowd-free, and the rates are at their lowest. Plus, you get to be part of plenty of exciting festivals.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find out why you should visit Nantucket during spring and autumn and the thrilling activities that deserve a spot in your itinerary.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why Visit Nantucket during Spring or Autumn?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Summer getaways! Two words that excite us and conjure up the grandest plans: Surfing on the wildest turfs, lounging on the beach, and kayaking on the pristine waters. Although Nantucket is a year-round playground, the island is a beehive during summer. You can expect droves of tourists, so there is plenty of traffic and the price of nearly everything doubles.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But if you\u2019re on a tight budget and are crowd-phobic, you can consider planning your trip during spring- March to April. Most exciting destinations such as museums are open in preparation for peak season. Also, accommodation rates are lowest during this season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alternatively, you can consider planning your visits around the fall season- Mid September to October. The cool temperatures drive out the sun lovers. There\u2019s still a decent variety of exciting festivals, and costs ease up. You can easily grab coveted hotel reservations and&nbsp;rentals in Nantucket&nbsp;at a decent bargain.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are the most exciting things to see, eat, and get involved in the next time you\u2019re at the seaside haven of Nantucket.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Fun Things to Do in Nantucket during Spring:<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Take part in Nantucket Daffodil Festival&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The spring season is undoubtedly a fabulous time to visit Nantucket. The last week of April marks the beginning of the spectacular Daffodil Festival- a series of thrilling events to usher in springtime on the island.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What started as a Daffodil planting project has since grown over the decades to become an all-time favorite for islanders and vacationers. The charms of&nbsp;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nantucketchamber.org\/daffodilfestival\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nantucket\u2019s Daffodil Festival<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;are innumerable, including flower shows and a variety of exciting events at the Children\u2019s Beach, such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bike parade<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Family events<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tailgate picnic in Siasconset<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NiSHA Daffy Dog Parade<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antique Car Parade on Main Street<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Daffodil Festival Bazaar<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take in the sheer excitement, spectacular performances, and colorful parades when you participate in Nantucket\u2019s most fascinating festival.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watch this video to get a glimpse of Nantucket:<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Go to the Wine &amp; Food Festival<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In one of Nantucket\u2019s most anticipated events of the year, you can expect to sample a variety of gourmet wines and savory eats, all while creating memories.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Founder Denis Toner in partnership with local retailers and restaurateurs launched one of the most sensational foods and wine extravaganzas in the world. This magical tradition now draws in 3000 attendees to the island every year and boasts of a growing family of eccentric hoteliers, highly acclaimed chefs, wine experts, and culinary influencers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nicknamed \u201c<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/archive.nytimes.com\/www.nytimes.com\/fodors\/top\/features\/travel\/destinations\/unitedstates\/massachusetts\/capecod\/fdrs_feat_44_5.html?n=Top%252FFeatures%252FTravel%252FDestinations%252FUnited+States%252FMassachusetts%252FCape+Cod\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Grey Lady<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,\u201d the alluring culinary destination is famous for its intimate setting, legendary delicacies, grand tastings, and luncheons. Need we say more? No doubt it continues to attract thousands of foodies each year.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Visit Coskata Coatue Wildlife Refuge<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For the ultimate jungle experience, book a wildlife getaway to Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge. Cruise along the twin peninsulas brimming with picturesque flora and fauna.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The eco-destination is a treasure trove of beach plum, bayberry, beach grass, and heather. Look out for shorebirds, seals, horseshoe crabs, and deer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thetrustees.org\/place\/coskata-coatue-wildlife-refuge\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coskata<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> prides itself on having the largest red cedar woodland and savannah in New England \u2013&nbsp;<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Cedars<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore about 1,110 acres of overland vehicle trails and beachfront and complete the excursion at the iconic Great Point Lighthouse. Take in the picturesque views of rolling dunes, sandy beaches, and rugged landscape. Hunting is permitted, so wear bright colors during the hunting season.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also, always keep your dog on a leash and look out for greenhead flies and saltmarsh mosquitoes prevalent in July and August.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Exciting Things to do in Nantucket During Fall:<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Nantucket Restaurant Week<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nantucket\u2019s impressive culinary scene comes alive during the&nbsp;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nantucketrestaurantweek\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;ig_mid=3E9B9B08-7AD5-4795-ABC6-79444D44010E&amp;hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nantucket Restaurant Week<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The festival celebrates the longstanding diverse culinary and cultural heritage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The food extravaganza, held twice a year, brings 27+ restaurants on board with signature dishes, next-level amazing drinks, and royal hospitality on the menu. Over seven days, your favorite restaurants will be offering delicacies at slashed prices.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A huge chunk of Nantucket\u2019s A-class restaurants, including Black-Eyed Susan\u2019s, Brand Point Grill, Dune, and Straight Wharf, have been featured in the past. Moreover, each participating restaurant gives you a chance to dine on three-five course exquisite dinners at price points of $25 to $50.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You get to enjoy delectable fine dining at a steal and try out new dishes. You can choose to fly solo or tag along with your best buddy. And you thought Nantucket couldn\u2019t get any better!<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Cranberry Festival<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cranberries are at the heart of Nantucket, which earns them a celebration every year. They have been part of Nantucket\u2019s tradition and history for over 200 years.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mark your calendar and round up your family for some feast and fun at the Nantucket Cranberry Festival. Plus, you\u2019ll learn about the history of cranberry farming and harvesting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every year, locals flock to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nantucket-ma.gov\/facilities\/facility\/details\/Milestone-Cranberry-Bog-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Milestone Cranberry Bog<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to celebrate the cranberry harvest during the \u201ccranberry month\u201d of October.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Events include the sale of cranberries and NFC (Nantucket Conservation Foundation) merchandise. Also, there\u2019ll be guided tours on cranberry operations, Nanpuppet shows, school tours, live music, and presentations.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Go Scalloping&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fish and taste the freshest, tastiest gems of the sea when you participate in Nantucket\u2019s fall scalloping season. Scallops harvesting is unique and special to the islanders, especially after the summer crowds have shifted to the mainland.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To take part in the charming \u201cfamily\u201d scalloping adventure, you must have a scallop license and visibly display your shellfishing button. But if you\u2019re snorkeling, you can pin it on your dive flag. A shellfishing license costs $35 annually, but it\u2019s free if you\u2019re over 60. Non-residents will have to pay $50 for a week or $125 for a year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can get a scalloping license at the Nantucket Public Safety Building and equipment at the local marine stores like the Tidal Creeks Ships store.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll need warm clothes, a push rake, waterproof gloves, a wet suit, and a clam basket for scalloping.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monomoy and Madaket are the most popular go-to spots for scalloping. You\u2019ll find a variety of bay scallops, but look out for those with a well-defined lifted growth line.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nantucket Bay Scallop<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a tasty delicacy. Sautee a handful in a buttered pan with salt and pepper &#8211; tastes way better than its sibling, the sea scallop.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Want to read more of our latest posts? Check out our visit to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/71822\/visiting-smithfields-chicken-n-bar-b-q-in-nc-feels-like-home\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smithfield\u2019s Chicken N\u2019 Bar-B-Q in NC<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Nantucket draws in vacationers like a magnet with stunning natural wonders exceeding our wildest dreams. From sprawling beaches to exotic cultures and spectacular topography, the scenic island oozes sultry charms that will bring you back again. If you\u2019re planning to tick Nantucket off your bucket list, you must know which months are the best to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":156,"featured_media":71833,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[322,886,956,3973,1868,316],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-71832","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-massachussetts","8":"category-nantucket","9":"category-plane-2","10":"category-public-transit","11":"category-travel-type","12":"category-weekend-getaways"},"acf":[],"mv":{"thumbnail_id":71833,"thumbnail_uri":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Best-Time-to-Visit-Nantucket-and-What-To-Do-There--350x230.jpg"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/71832","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/156"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=71832"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/71832\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/71833"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=71832"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=71832"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=71832"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}