One might think that a rainy day on this island might mean the loss of a beach day, but to me it’s an opportunity to explore so much of the culture and history of MV - indoors! I’ve rounded up a bunch of options (some free, some paid, some kid-friendly, some not) for you to consider when it rains and you want to stay busy.
👨👩👧 Martha’s Vineyard Museum
The MVM has tons of rotating exhibits, and a very impressive kids area! They also constantly are hosting a variety of events and programming for all ages. Check out their calendar here. $18/per adult.
🆓 Art Galleries
There are art galleries all around Martha’s Vineyard, but you can visit nearly 10 of them within a block’s radius in Downtown Oak Bluffs. Put on a raincoat along Dukes County Ave and see incredible local photographers and artisans work. Find a map and more info here.
The Carnegie Heritage Center
The Carnegie has some cool history of the island available to browse, there’s even a children’s section downstairs. $5 suggested donation, info here.
🆓 Aquinnah Cultural Center
Learn more about the history of the Aquinnah Wampanoag Info here
👨👩👧 Flying Horses Carousel
A classic Vineyard tradition, the Flying Horses is a great place in downtown Oak Bluffs to bring kids on a rainy day. Not only do they have a carousel but also a mini-arcade. More info here.
🆓 👨👩👧 The Libraries
Libraries on the island have incredibly robust programming for all ages. You can see the events on their respective websites (linked below).
Feel like browsing a bookstore instead? Try Bunch of Grapes or Edgartown Books
👨👩👧 Bowling @ The Barn Bowl + Bistro
A great indoors option for all ages, The Barn has bowling - and bonus - you can actually reserve a lane before arriving. 60 minutes is $60. More info here.
👨👩👧 Arcade in Oak Bluffs
Ryan Amusements on Circuit Ave is a memorable spot - they have over 75 games. Collecting tickets for prizes is always fun for kiddos, open daily 9am-Midnight. Hours/info here.
👨👩👧 Indoor Pool at Mansion House/YMCA
Mansion House: the spa offers day passes that offer you access to the amenities, including an indoor pool. Info here, $18/per adult per day
YMCA: The local Y offers use of an indoor pool and several other indoor fitness options. Info here, $20/per adult per day.
See a Film
MV Film Center: Martha’s Vineyard Film Society offers year-round cinema options and rotating visiting films - see whats playing Info here.
Edgartown Cinema: with more classic options, check out the daily schedule and offerings here.
Cottage Museum
Check out the MV Camp Meeting Association Cottage Museum + Shop. Info here, $3/per adult
Pirates Puzzle Escape Room
In Edgartown, this new escape room offers a fun indoor experience. Info here
👨👩👧 FARM Institute
The Farm Institute offers tons of programming on food and farming. Almost daily they run programming from local chefs or to entertain kiddos, a lot of which is indoors. Info and events here.
And of course, in addition to the above, it’s a great opportunity to support local island shops!