šŖ£ MVacay's Summer 2025 Bucket List - Activities to Do on Martha's Vineyard
Lis's personal picks for new, fun things to do on MV this summer
Iām showing my cards hereā¦because after this summer you can definitely expect activity spotlights on nearly all of the items on todayās list. Here are the things Iāve added to my summer agenda to do with my kids and family. These are not MVacay-vetted yet, since I havenāt tried them myself!
If youāre newer here and looking for less-niche offerings, this is the guide for you:
I hope my personal bucket list gives you some out-of-the-norm ideas for how to enjoy the beauty of MV in new ways.
šæ Get Outside
š„¾ Hike at The Brick Yard
This trail in Menemsha Hills leads to the old Brickworks ruins and a beach thatās supposed to be beautiful and quiet. Cost: Free / More Info / More Hikes
š§ŗ Picnic at Tashmoo Spring Building
This spot is easy to miss and always peaceful. Iām planning to bring lunch and let the girls run around. Cost: FREE / More Info / More Picnic Spots
šØ Take a Class or Workshop
š§ The VineYard Series at The Yard
Yoga on the Vine is hosting outdoor classes in Chilmark all season: vinyasa on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and mat Pilates on Wednesdays. Itās covered but open-air, so you get the breeze without needing backup rain plans. Cost: $30 / More Info / More Yoga Options
š³ Found Foods Class at FARM Institute
This class with Jenny Devivo starts with harvesting from the garden, then cooking a meal together in the teaching kitchen using whateverās in season. Iām excited to finally take a class with Jenny! Cost: $75 / More Info / My Farm Institute Review
š Sound Journeys & Sonic Workshops
These sessions have been showing up all over the islandāStillpoint, local libraries, and pop-ups. Some are meditative sound baths, others blend movement, writing, or group sharing. Expect gongs, bowls, and other instruments to calm your nervous system or spark creativity. Cost Varies / One Upcoming Example / Guide to Workshops + Classes
š Evening Plans
š
Sunset Cruise with Cottage City Charters
I try to get on a boat at least once a summer, so Iām booking a sunset cruise with my family! It feels so quintessentially Vineyard summer. Cost: $495+ up to 6 people / More Info / More Charter Boats
šø Sound of the Vineyard @ Grange Hall
I love an outdoor concert, and this one is free, low-key, and perfectly timed for families. Every Wednesday in July and August from 5ā7 PM, local bands play on the lawn. Cost: Free / More Info / More Live Music
š¤ TBD Improv Show
An improv show is #1 on my date night list! More shows are expected to be announced, but so far theyāre scheduled for shows at The Barn on June 11, July 9, August 6 at 7 PM. Cost: $15 / More Info / More of My Favorite Events
For the Kids
š“ Pony Ride at Misty Meadows
Misty Meadows offers short, beginner pony rides. My daughter has been asking, so weāre giving it a go this year. There are tons of drop-in programming options for all ages! Cost: ~$30 / More Info / More Toddler Activities
š¦ Visit Felix Neck Nature Center
Iām planning a simple walk and a stop inside the nature center. Easy and educational without needing a full itinerary. Cost: $3-4 / More Info / More Open Spaces + Playgrounds
ā¾ļø MV Sharks Game
This one is still on my list because I didnāt go last summer, oops! Low-key, affordable baseball with snacks and space to move around. A classic, nostalgic activity. Cost: $10 / More Info
š½ Eat Something New
š Try a Newly Opened Restaurant: The Maker Pasta Shop
A new farm-to-table concept in Vineyard Haven with handmade pasta. They opened in May, and Iām so excited to see whatās on the menu throughout the summer! More Info / More New Restaurants
š“ Old Favorites That Are New Again: The Wharf
Every summer I revisit places I havenāt been in years. Even if Iāve written something off before, I like to give old favorites a try to see how theyāve evolved. More Info / More Seafood
š½ Farmstand Tour
I love
š§¾ History + Island Culture
š¦ Jaws Exhibit at MV Museum
I might not make it to many Jaws 50th Events, but Iāll definitely stop by the exhibit on the filming of Jaws. Cost: $21 / More Info / More Jaws Programming
š Aquinnah Cultural Center
I want to learn more about Wampanoag history and culture. This is the place to start! I plan to incorporate it in an up-island trip before a stop at Philbin Beach. Cost: $5 / More Info
š¼ļø MV Glassworks
A bit tucked away, it would be fun to stop in and watch the glassblowers and browse the shop. Cost: Free More Info / More Arts on MV
Now more than ever, itās also on my list to be cautious and proactive about tick checks this summer. Iāll keep reminding you!
Iāve created a free mobile app, MV Bucket List, where you can track your bucket list items and find new ones:
Oh and by the way, here is my 2024 Bucket List. I completed about 50% of it!
Have a great summer, MV! I canāt wait to show you some new ideas along the way!
š Reference Graphic
I didn't know about the new Pasta Restaurant.TY! and TY for the shout out for the farm stand tour. It's a fun thing to do!
Great list! Seems like every summer slips by without doing some of these things, so we need to make a plan.