The history of Cape Cod and the Islands is built on two disciplines: whaling and art. The lighthouses of these communities harken back to the late 18th century, when sea captains of the area were well paid and in great demand. By the early part of the 20th century, Provincetown became a destination for artists. Eugene O'Neill helped form the Provincetown Players, and the art inspired by resident and visiting artists is on display throughout the area. From the lighthouses that dot the coastline to museums and tours, visitors are introduced to the events and people that helped form these communities.
Lighthouses
The five lighthouses in Martha's Vineyard have been lighting up the sounds and harbors of this area for more than 175 years. Many groups preserve the lighthouses so visitors can experience and explore these diverse structures.
Find All Lighthouses: in the Cape & Islands | in Massachusetts
Museums & Sites
Located in Sandwich, the Heritage Museum has an eclectic collection of exhibits including 37 vintage cars, a hand-carved carousel and their annual holiday Spectacle of Lights.
Find All Museums & Sites: in the Cape & Islands | in Massachusetts
Tours
By bus or trolley, Island Transport visits all six towns of Martha's Vineyard, including the 150-foot cliffs of Aquinnah and shopping at Edgartown.
Find All Tours: in the Cape & Islands | in Massachusetts
Featured Cities
- Eastham:
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A coastal resort community straddling the arm of Cape Cod.
Find: Lodging | Attractions - Edgartown:
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Once a prosperous whaling port, Edgartown is now an elegant yachting center filled with stately homes.
Find: Lodging | Attractions - Nantucket:
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Throughout Nantucket, you'll find a wide range of restaurants and interesting antique, craft and specialty stores.
Find: Lodging | Attractions
Featured Attractions
- Heritage Museums & Gardens
Located in Sandwich, here you'll see rhododendron-filled grounds, early-American artifacts and antique cars. Learn more>>
- The Flying Horses
Like going around and around? The Flying Horses in Oak Bluffs is the oldest working carousel in America. Learn more>>
- Nantucket Whaling Museum
Restored 1847 candle factory and museum featuring exhibitions on Nantucket whaling history, decorative arts, Nantucket folk art and more. Learn more>>
Map of the Regions in Massachusetts
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- Where to Go
- Things to Do
Getting to the shops is easy - you can take the MBTA, rent a Zipcar, or even take the bus from various Boston hotels to Wrentham Village Premium Outlets. Don't miss Boston's world famous Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Essex's charming antique stores, and Yankee Candle's flagship store in South Deerfield.
- Plan Your Trip
- 50 Under $50
- Getting Around
State and regional resources, including air, land, and water transportation; Boston public transit info; detailed info on travel to Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Island
