There’s a little joke Nantucket Islanders play on their visitors. When giving directions, they’ll tell you to “just go down Centre Street and turn left at the gray shingled house with the white trim.”  The joke, of course, is almost all of the houses have gray shingles and white trim. That sort of lighthearted teasing is indicative of the spirit of this tiny bit of paradise located only a short ferry ride from the Massachusetts coast.

Once home to many whaling sea captains, Nantucket is now a popular summer spot for the well to do. Walk along its cobblestone streets and pass by a few of Nantucket’s well-preserved Colonial homes adorned with roses and blue hydrangeas and you’ll see why.  Its one of the few places left in the country where there are no McDonalds, Starbucks or other chain businesses.  Strict zoning laws keep the chains at bay and preserve its 18th century charm.

The streets are narrow in Nantucket Town, and meant for pedestrians and bike riders.  Watching two SUVs try to pass each other is almost comical.  Wander down Main, Broad and Centre Streets to shop at upscale boutiques, antique shops, art galleries and see local handcrafts. For breakfast or a light lunch, stop in at the Nantucket Bake Shop on Orange Street, but be prepared to stand in line. For dinner, try the Fog Island Café or the Black-Eyed Susan.  Celebrities can often be seen at the latter.

Although Nantucket Island is small – only 3 miles wide by 14 miles long – it’s a treasure trove of history with over 2,400 historic buildings.  In fact the whole island has been designated as a National Historic District.  If you happen to be in Nantucket during the third week of July, the Nantucket Preservation Trust will be hosting their Summer in the kitchen • A Baker’s Dozen Kitchen Tour which allows you to tour the kitchens (and some gardens) of 13 historic homes.  

Lodging can be expensive on Nantucket.  If your budget can handle it, stay at the Cliffside Beach Club, which is located on the beach. For another, more affordable alternative right in town, stay at the Martin House Inn on Centre Street.

Just a short walk from town, Jetties beach is an ideal place to soak up the sun. The wind and waves are generally calmer on the north shore beaches of the island, because they’re protected by Nantucket Sound.  The annual Boston Pops concert and 4th of July Celebration is held on Jetties as well.
 
One of the best ways to explore the island is by bike.  You can rent bicycles at several places downtown, including Young’s Bicycle Shop on Broad Street. Young’s has been renting bikes for 75 years.  One of many easy bike routes around the island is the Madaket bike path.  This round trip route is 5 miles long and winds past moors and sandy beaches. Since 40% of the island has been set aside for conservation, much of the island is in its natural undeveloped state.