A guide for getting the most of your time in ACK.
Total Days: 3 days | Accommodations: Hotel in Town | Traveled with: Friends | Transportation: Mostly walking, also Uber and bikes | Type of Trip: Relaxing and scenic New England charm | Highlights: White sandy beaches, bike ride, beers and seafood
Nantucket is the perfect weekend getaway. It will feel like a world away, given the secluded location, historical architecture..and effort it takes to arrive. Once you are there, the island breeze and beautiful scenery will have you dreaming of an annual ACK trip. Click here for reasons on why this is also a great bachelor / bachelorette party destination.
DAY 1
At a glimpse: Ferry or flight to Nantucket, exploring Town and nearby beach excursion
Travel agenda: Take the morning ferry or a flight to Nantucket! Drop off your bags at your hotel and pack a day bag with towel. Then walk to Handblebar, a little café for equally good coffee and ambiance.
Then it’s time to explore what the locals call “Town.” This historic district has more than 800 houses built in the 1700 and 1800s during the peak of the whaling business. Main, Federal and Centre are the main streets, but the side roads are worth investigating too. Nantucket Looms, Murray’s Toggery Shop, Milly and Grace, and Mitchell’s Book Corner are just a few favorites. Of course there are Nantucket gift shops all over and a Lilly Pulitzer and Vineyard Vines right up front if you want to look the part.
Next, order ahead and then pick up sandwiches and drinks at Something Natural. From there, it’s a 12 minute walk to Jetties Beach with views of Nantucket Sound.
Now you’ve earned dinner! Get ready at your hotel and then walk to American Seasons, newly renovated and picturesque with fresh food and local ingredients. After, it’s a 5-minute walk to the bar at Ventuno and the Gazebo for drinks in a fun, laidback setting.
DAY 2
At a glimpse: Bike ride to Cisco Brewery
Travel agenda: Good morning! Sleep in and then head to Downyflake. Follow the smell of heavenly fresh doughnuts and then grab a seat at the 85-year-old-and-still-going-strong diner.
From Downyflake, it’s just a short Uber ride to Cisco Brewery. Plan to be there when it opens to secure a table! This is a “must visit” destination for adults of all ages, not to mention kids and dogs are welcome too. The brewery has world-class beers (wines and spirits are available), a laid back ambiance and live music and is the perfect way to end your New England getaway. Food stalls and trucks are usually parked around the venue for sustenance.
For an unforgettable dinner, reservations should be made (in advance) at The Galley or CRU. To continue the evening, stop by the Club Car for some singalong piano music.
DAY 3
At a glimpse: Bike ride to scenic beach
Travel agenda: Head out early to Broad Street. Grab a breakfast sandwich at Stubbys or the healthier smoothie alternative at The Juice Bar.
Nantucket Bike Shop is on the same block, which is convenient because biking is the best way to see the island. For a flat, scenic and 100% worth-it ride, bike 45 minutes east to the town of Siasonset, or ‘Sconset! Most of the ride will be on the Sconset Bike path. Meander through the town with summer residences, mostly built during the 1900s.
From here, take a walk in the direction of the Sankaty Head Lighthouse on the Sconset Bluff Walk. This is a little-known path that provides views, gardens and a behind the scenes look at many of the amazing seaside residences. On the bike ride back to Town, take Sakatay Road to Polpis Road, which offers scenic marshes and cranberry bogs along the way.
Before heading home, stop by local favorite Jack and Charlie’s for an ice cream treat.
