✅ MVacay Bucket List
✅ MVacay Bucket List
Our Personal Must-Dos, the ones we haven't checked off yet, and the ones where once was enough
“You went to Martha’s Vineyard and you didn’t _____!?” - a classic line (sometimes said by us😉). We’ve rounded up the most popular MV bucket list items into this post so you can keep track of your own island milestones.
We’ve broken down these must-do’s into two sections - 10 Beginner (those for the first few visits to the island) and 10 Advanced (for those repeated visitors and islanders). How many out of the 20 have you done?! Let us know!
✅ Beginner
🏘️ Walk the MV Camp Meeting Association
First-time visitors are often shocked to see the quaint “gingerbread houses” that greet them in Oak Bluffs along the waterfront. Stroll around to see the well-maintained, tiny homes with historical significance to the island. Be sure to budget at least 20 minutes to walk through the area in your first visit. Info here
☀️ Go in a Lighthouse
Ah, a classic New England tradition. There are 5 lighthouses on the island - Aquinnah, West Chop, East Chop, Edgartown, and Cape Poge. In 2022, three of these are open to the public to tour and climb to the top. Definitely worth it visit as many of them as you can! Edgartown and Cape Poge are open 10-4 daily for $5 admission. Info here
🚨 Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook
Regarded by many as the most beautiful view of the island! After a 30-minute drive up-island you are rewarded with views of the Atlantic, the Gay Head Lighthouse and gorgeous cliffs from the observation deck. You can go in the lighthouse for $6 between 10-4. Info here
🎠 Flying Horses Carousel
A historical landmark right in the heart of Oak Bluffs! The Flying Horses Carousel is the nation’s oldest platform carousel. All ages can ride on this vintage ride and try to catch the brass ring for a free ride. Open 10a-9p Info here
🦈 Jump off Jaws Bridge
Many know that the famous movie Jaws was filmed on MV (aka Amity Island) and features many scenes off of the iconic bridge on State Beach. If you drive by on a summer day, you’ll see tons of people of all ages making the jump from the bridge into the ocean despite the very clear “No Jumping” sign. Beware!
🌅 Watch a Sunset in Menemsha
With a drive up-island and some strategic parking choices, you can find yourself watching the sunset from a quaint fishing village beach. Takeout some lobster rolls from Larsen’s or Menemsha fish markets, BYOB and set up a blanket on the beach. You’ll be joined by lots of other Vineyarders who clap once the sun falls beyond the horizon. A unique experience for sure
🍩 Food-Related
While our personal list is far longer, if we had to share the two most popular suggestions, here is where you will see the longest lines:
Get a donut at Back Door Donuts
What used to be a best-kept secret is now a common attraction - wait in line for a fresh, late-night donut in Oak Bluffs!
Get a Dirty Banana at Donovan’s
On Oak Bluffs Harbor tucked next to Nancy’s Snack Bar, the bartender Donovan is known for his mudslide with a banana - strong, indulgent and with a great view.
🛍️ West Tisbury Farmers Market
Wednesdays and Saturday’s from 9-12 you can find a variety of vendors at the Agricultural Hall in WT. Browse locally made products and bring your own bag!
⛴️ Take the Ferry to Chappaquiddick
Grab your bike and head over to the On Time ferry on Edgartown harbor to take the two-minute ride over to Chappy. At some point, everyone should bike around the private, rural and scenic island. Bring your own lunch, a book and a beach towel!
✅ Advanced
🛻 Drive on The Beach
Rent a Jeep (make sure it’s registered on-island) and get a day pass to drive on to Norton Point Beach. Bring a cooler and camp out for the day right on the water. It’s a unique experience that is worth adding to your list. Info here
⛵ Sail on the Black Dog Tall Ship
The Alabama is an incredible vessels that boasts daily trips around the island with an interactive sailing experience. Info here
📅 Event-Related
Agricultural Festival
This four-day exhibition in late August brings carnival amusements, livestock showcases and more. Info here
Illumination Festival
Typically in late August, the homes surrounding the tabernacle all decorate their porches with unique Chinese lanterns for one night only. Watch as the community comes to life at night paired with live music and celebration. Info here
Christmas in Edgartown
With several events throughout the weekend, Christmas in Edgartown is oozing with holiday charm, shopping, parades and festivities. Info here
🖼️ History-Related
Martha’s Vineyard Museum
Island History can be found in droves here - several rotating exhibits, a kid-friendly area, and top-notch archiving of the origins of this tiny island Info here
African American Heritage Trail
Offering in-person or self-guided tour options, pay homage to the rich history of Black island visitors and residents Info here
Aquinnah Cultural Center
As an island indebted to the history of indigenous people, this center is only a starting point for learning all of the contributions and history the Wampanoag established here on MV Info here
🧀 Food-Related
Salt Rock Chocolates
You can always find the booth with the long lines at the WT Farmers Market. This chocolate honors a long-tradition of recipes formerly made at Chilmark Chocolates up-island. Grab a box! Info here
Grey Barn Cheese
Known nation-wide for their award winning cheese, this farm also has delicious baked goods. Grab some cheese and a sourdough loaf, you won’t regret it. Info here
That’s all for now! We struggled to keep the lists to 10 and 10. How many were you able to check off, and how many did you add?
We want this to be a living list that we add to, so if you have something that you believe is missing, please drop us a note! 💌