The Nantucket Arts Council offers community arts programming, workshops, exhibitions, and creative events designed to support artists and expand access to the arts on Nantucket. Located on Union Street in downtown Nantucket, the organization connects residents and visitors with classes, cultural programming, and opportunities to engage with the island’s creative community.
The Maria Mitchell Aquarium & Sea Shop is a seasonal marine science center located directly on Nantucket Harbor. Operated by the Maria Mitchell Association, the aquarium features locally collected marine species, interactive touch tanks, educational exhibits, and family friendly science programming focused on Nantucket’s coastal ecosystems. Visitors can explore local sea life while learning about the island’s marine environment through hands on experiences and marine ecology programs.
Endeavor Sailing offers daytime sails, sunset cruises, and private charters aboard a classic Friendship Sloop departing from Straight Wharf in downtown Nantucket. Led by Captain James Genthner, the charter welcomes both novice and experienced sailors for relaxed excursions around Nantucket Harbor and Nantucket Sound. Guests can help raise the sails, learn about the island’s maritime history, or simply enjoy the scenery from the deck of one of Nantucket’s longest operating sailing charters.
The Nantucket Family Resource Center provides free family support services, referrals, parenting resources, and youth assistance programs for Nantucket families and caregivers. Located at Freedom Square, the nonprofit organization helps connect children, parents, and caregivers with educational support, assessments, community programs, and guidance designed to strengthen family well being across the island.
The Tall Ship Lynx offers a one-of-a-kind sailing experience aboard a beautifully crafted interpretation of an 1812 privateer schooner. Departing from Nantucket during the summer season, the vessel combines scenic harbor sails with hands-on maritime education and living history. Whether joining a public cruise, sunset sail, or educational program, guests experience Nantucket’s seafaring heritage in an immersive and unforgettable way.
The Nantucket Historical Association Family Programs offer hands on educational experiences designed to connect children and families with Nantucket’s history, art, and culture. Through seasonal workshops, crafts, discovery activities, and interactive learning programs, the NHA creates engaging opportunities for families to explore the island together. Programs are designed for a range of ages and encourage creativity, storytelling, and hands on participation.
Barnaby’s Toy & Art is a Nantucket toy store and creative studio offering toys, books, art kits, children’s classes, and hands on activities designed to inspire creativity and play. Located on Oak Street, the shop combines imaginative retail experiences with seasonal classes, parties, and take home projects for children of all ages. Created by author and illustrator Wendy Rouillard, Barnaby’s brings together storytelling, art, and community in a colorful space designed for kids to create and explore.
Steve Tuna’s Beach Fishing Adventures offers guided surf casting experiences across Nantucket’s remote beaches and shoreline fishing spots. Led by longtime local fisherman Steve “Tuna” Tornovish, each trip blends fishing, island exploration, and local knowledge in a relaxed, approachable format for all skill levels. From striped bass and bluefish to bonito and false albacore, it’s one of the most authentic ways to experience Nantucket’s coastline.
