Most people don’t know Nantucket means the faraway place. Once they learn this little tidbit, they understand how appropriate it is. This magical place allows people to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here, they can relax and enjoy themselves while leaving their cares behind. This enchanting place draws people in and makes them fall in love. Here are ten of countless reasons you should plan your trip to this amazing place today.
The Residents
Visitors to Nantucket feel as if they are at home from the moment they arrive until they must depart. The residents make everyone feel welcome and as if they have been friends for decades. They love to share their insider knowledge with visitors, as they don’t want anyone to miss out on the amazing things the island offers. Furthermore, they treat everyone the same. Age, race, status, and employment are of no importance to them.
When someone is using the crosswalk, they stop and wave. On the street, everyone smiles and says hello. The friendliness of the people who live in Nantucket ensures those who visit never want to leave. Many people find they are interested in a new house on the island once they visit.
Sweet Treats
The island of Nantucket isn’t known for its warm climate. In fact, the average annual temperature comes in at 51 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, most people wouldn’t bring to mind ice cream as a preferred treat of residents and visitors. They would think of comfort foods that warm people up. However, the ice cream found on the island is incredible. People who have tried it say it is among the best they ever had.
Nantucket’s Beaches
People who visit the island often do so to enjoy time on the beaches. What makes this area so special is the water rivals that found in the Caribbean. People will take a second look to see if they are actually on the Atlantic Ocean. While in the area, take a visit to Jetties Beach or one of the other beaches found along the south shore.
Plan to spend some time at the water, as you may find you catch of glimpse of whales frolicking on the ocean. You don’t want to miss this. In addition, visitors to the beaches don’t need passes. Try visiting a beach in Martha’s Vineyard and you will find they turn you away. That’s never an issue when you head to Nantucket.
The Architecture
One thing people notice when they visit Nantucket is the unusual architecture. They find historic homes made of brick, ones built by the very wealthy in past times, alongside homes with wood siding. However, one element that ties the homes together is the iconic cedar shakes. They help infuse the area with charm and capture the heart of all who visit or live here. Many of these homes have names also, which makes them different from the average house in America.
Getting Around
People unfamiliar with the area might worry that getting to the island will be a challenge. However, that isn’t the case. The island serves as home to an airport that services regional jets from across coastal New England. Once you arrive on the island, getting a cab isn’t difficult, and Uber drivers remain ready to help.
Some people assume the ferry is the primary means of getting to and from the island. There are ferries coming from New Bedford, Martha’s Vineyard, Hyannis, and Harwichport, but people have options. Consider them all to determine which transportation mode best meets your needs.
Once you arrive on the island, getting around presents no challenge. Countless people choose to walk so they can soak in the atmosphere. Biking serves as another option for people who want to explore what the island offers, and a person can drive if they choose to. It’s all a matter of what the person wants.
Support Local Businesses
Nantucket differs from many tourist locations in that it has no chain stores or restaurants. A person can shop at a few name-brand retail stores, but most businesses in the area are owned and operated by locals. Try the different mom-and-pop places and fall in love. They provide the area with a homey feel. For many people, the biggest disappointment is having to leave these places behind when they return home, knowing they won’t get to have the amazing foods again until they plan a return visit.
The Whale Skeleton
Have you ever wanted to see a whale skeleton and imagine what it would be like to be swallowed by this massive animal? Visit the whaling museum built in 1846 and you can do exactly this. Visit the Spirits Within Us holographic experience and learn about everything from abolition to suffrage. Learn about oil and candle production in the 19th century and check out the scrimshaw collection. You may find you want to plan a return trip to ensure you miss nothing in this amazing Nantucket treasure.
Sailing
Every person who visits Nantucket should take part in a sailing excursion. For much of the island’s history, sailing was the only way to visit or depart Nantucket. Whalers would eagerly anticipate the first sighting of land after they have been on the water for a few years. However, make certain you choose an experienced sailor to captain your trip, as the waters remain full of obstacles that could doom the voyage. You don’t want that to happen.
Breathtaking Foliage
People who visit the area comment on the beauty of the flowers when they’re in full bloom. It must be something about the Nantucket soil that makes the colors vibrant and the leaves lush. Foggy mornings on the island don’t dim their appeal.
History Comes to Life
Everywhere a person turns in Nantucket, they encounter history. From the homes and streets to the museum dedicated to the whaling industry that was key to the island’s growth, there’s something for everyone. Quakerism ensured men and women were treated as equals, which was of great help in allowing the industry to thrive. Women would hold down the fort until their men returned home.
Plan a visit to Nantucket in the coming months. Once you discover the beauty and charm of this island, you’ll never want to go home. There’s no reason to. The residents would love to have you join them and call this island home.
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