2024 Cape Cod Travel Guide - Magazine - Page 70
MARTHA’S VINEYARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Once you arrive on Martha’s Vineyard, you’ll 昀椀nd
plenty of ways to get around the island from
the main port towns, which will mesmerize at
昀椀rst sight with their variety of quaint storefronts,
restaurants, and lively harbor scenes. The
Vineyard Transit Authority offers island-wide
public transportation and a seasonal hop-on,
hop-off bus itinerary. Rent a bike or moped to
see the far reaches of the island, or step aboard
a vintage trolley sightseeing tour.
Known as the liveliest of the Vineyard’s bustling
“Down-Island” towns, Oak Bluffs is home to
historic attractions and landmarks all within
MARTHA’S VINEYARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
walking distance of the ferry dock. Take a
leisurely stroll past the kaleidoscope of colorful
Victorian Gingerbread Cottages at Oak Bluffs
Campground, famed for their fairy tale-like
architecture and storied history. Next up is The
Flying Horses Carousel, the nation’s oldest
operating platform carousel where you can take
your favorite horse for a spin and try to catch
the brass ring for bragging rights and a free ride.
Children and adults alike will long remember a
special visit to the Island Alpaca, spent with a
herd of gentle, friendly creatures on the 19-acre
farm.
When hunger strikes, have a bite atop a bluff
overlooking the Nantucket Sound at The Lookout
Tavern, or at the famous Black Dog Tavern in
Vineyard Haven for a presidential breakfast and
souvenir Black Dog merch.
Cross the legendary “Jaws Bridge” connecting
Edgartown and Oak Bluffs for a glimpse into
Jaws culture on Martha’s Vineyard – a popular
bucket list item – then spend a relaxing
afternoon strolling around Edgartown, a former
whaling port steeped in maritime history, and
one of the Island’s 昀椀rst towns. Meander through
the historic streets lined with wealthy ship
captains’ mansions, where you can observe
Greek revival architecture and original widow’s
walks while you contemplate the life in the 19th
century.
If time allows, take the short “On Time” Chappy
ferry to leave the crowds behind and explore
the serene, Japanese-style in Chappaquiddick.
Return to the elegant Edgartown Harbor to sip,
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