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Leave the University Campus at 6:30 AM
Grab your backpack as early as possible and gather your buddies to start the exciting day trip to Martha’s Vineyard Island. Take a bus or car ride to Woods Hole, MA, which takes about 1.5 hours.
Settle in, play some music, and enjoy the ride before the real exploration begins!
8:00 AM - Catch the Ferry from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard
Board one of the best Ferry to Martha's Vineyard - Steamship Authority ferry, for a scenic 45-minute ride with ocean views. Have a light breakfast on the boat or bring your food on the go so you don’t starve yourself. Let your imagination grow, as you cruise toward the island.
9:00 AM - Exploring Vineyard Haven
One of the best gateway towns to start your day trip in Martha’s Vineyard! Visit Martha’s Vineyard Museum to learn about the island’s vintage history and modern-day cultural vibrancy.
The charming streets with bustling local shops, art galleries, and cafes are a perfect starting point for your journey. You also get multiple food outlets and cute cafes to satisfy your hungry soul around the town!
Activities to do in Vineyard Haven:
Visit:
Want to explore the rich history and culture? The Vineyard Museum offers fascinating exhibits on maritime heritage, art, and island life. This is your one-stop spot to get a glimpse of unique stories about New England's tradition and charm. Know more about the activities here!
- Cost: $10 - $15/person
- This cost might vary for students on offers/discounts.
For Breakfast/meals:
📍Bobby B's Restaurant & Bakery
Cost: Upto $30/person
Note: Prices vary on different menu choices.
Cost: Upto $50/person
Note: Prices vary on different menu choices.
10:30 AM - Step Back in Time in Edgartown
Head to Edgartown, MA for its picturesque whaling captains’ homes and serene harbor views!
When in Edgartown, you can’t miss out on the iconic lighthouse. The white walls, bright red top, and the ocean in the background are the best combinations to click some Instagrammable pictures.
Activities to do in Edgartown:
Visit:
The Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse smells of history and a deep story behind it. From initially named “Great Harbor” to a symbol of history at the Edgartown Harbor entrance, the lighthouse has seen several changes. The lighthouse's picturesque sandy beaches and white color make it a must-visit spot. Know more about the activities here!
- Cost: Free
- A guided tour may cost around $5 - $10.
Noon - Lunch at The Seafood Shanty
Well, why starve when there’s delicious food to try?
The Seafood Shanty, a one-stop local food outlet in Edgartown serves freshly cooked seafood. Try their finger-licking clam chowder, lobster rolls, fried oysters, and more from the menu. There’s nothing better than seafood on a beach!
Lunch/meal:
- Cost: $20 - $40/person
- Note: Prices vary on different menu choices.
1:00 PM - Oak Bluffs: Color and Fun
After lunch, It's time to explore because there’s still much to explore!
The heart of Martha’s Vineyard is Oak Bluffs with blended colors and fun. Over 300+ iconic gingerbread cottages are well-built and maintained by MVCA; Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association. It takes about 1-hour stroll through the neighborhood to soothe your mind with intricate town details.
Activities to do in Oak Bluffs:
Visit:
Flying Horses Carousel a Vineyard Preservation Trust Property
You can stop being an adult for one day and ride on the Flying Horses Carousel. Are you the type of scream on amusement park rides? If yes, this ride is still worth it. The unique and modern architecture feels dreamy as they say “Flying Horses”. Know more about the activities here!
- Cost: $3 - $5 per ride
- Note: You can visit the carousel with no rides
You cannot miss out on the beautifully crafted gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs. Over 300+ houses are well-built and maintained by MVCA and it's all around the town of Oak Bluffs. If you get lucky, every once a year they open the cottages for public visit. But, a walk by these houses will fill your heart with colors and unique artistry. Know more about the activities here!
- Cost: $30 (only once a year tour)
Brunch/snacks:
- Cost: Upto $30/person
- Prices vary on different menu choices
#Tips: Walk by the gingerbread cottages to see the bright and colorful architecture of the houses which is well-known as the “Carpenter Gothic” style
3:30 PM - Aquinnah Cliffs: A Majestic View
Last but not least; say hello to Aquinnah Cliffs!
Located on the western edge of Martha’s Vineyard, its dramatic clay cliffs, and panoramic water views are the best way to spend a fall afternoon. This beach has a breathtaking ocean view and natural beauty that will ease all your academic stress. Learn more about this here!
Activities to do in Aquinnah Cliffs:
- Cost: Free
- Note: Parking fees might range from $5 - $10.
#Tips: Click pictures, walk along the shore, and check out the Gay Head Lighthouse; standing high and proud at the top of the cliffs.
5:00 PM - Dinner at Larsen’s Fish Market in Menemsha
Larsen’s Fish Market in Menemsha, a small and cute fishing village can be your ideal spot to enjoy dinner.
Try out a fried seafood platter or lobster roll while enjoying a view of the harbor. This no-frills and cozy spot can relax with mind and body from the wild exploration throughout the day. Learn more about it here!
#Tips: Take your time to enjoy the dreamy sunset by the shore before it's time to say goodbye!
Dinner/meal cost:
Check here
- $25 - $40/person
- Note: Drinks/sides may cost an extra $5 - $10.
6:30 PM - Ferry Ride Back to Woods Hole
Say goodbye to Martha’s Vineyard with a happy heart and stomach filled with delicious food! Enjoy the magical transition on the cruise, when the sun starts to set over the water on your way back to Woods Hole. Learn more about Woods Hole here!
7:30 PM - Return to Northeastern University
On your way back to Northeastern University from Woods Hole, now it's time to chat with your friends about all the highlights of the trip. And, rejuvenate your memories of a perfect day on Martha’s Vineyard.
Trip Summary
- 6:30 AM : Depart Northeastern University
- 8:00 AM : Arrive at Woods Hole and board the ferry
- 9:00 AM : Explore Vineyard Haven
- 10:30 AM : Arrive in Edgartown
- 12:00 PM : Lunch at The Seafood Shanty
- 1:00 PM : Visit Oak Bluffs and enjoy fun activities
- 3:30 PM : Visit Aquinnah Cliffs
- 5:00 PM : Dinner at Larsen’s Fish Market in Menemsha
- 6:30 PM : Ferry back to Woods Hole
- 7:30 PM : Return to Boston.
Packing Checklist
Things to keep in mind on the day trip:
- Check out for student or group discounts for buses, rental cars, Uber, or ferry tickets to get lower prices.
- Spilling your bills and costs among the group size can help save you a lot of money.
- You may have to walk through the towns, so make sure to wear comfy shoes.
- Keep an eye on time so that you make the best of the trip hassle-free.
Before you go
This one-day trip to Martha's Vineyard can bring you a fascinating experience to enjoy the stunning, rugged landscapes, sweeping Atlantic views, impressive local shops, and authentic seafood. With TheSkidoo, now you have no worries about planning a perfect trip with a blend of adventure, fun, and good memories.