6:00 AM – Departure from Northeastern University

Travel Option 1: Budget-Friendly Option

MBTA Commuter Rail + Peter Pan Bus + Ferry to Nantucket

• Directions: Take the Orange Line from Ruggles Station to South Station, then board a Peter Pan Bus to reach Hyannis.
• Transfer: From Hyannis, head to the Ferry Terminal and take the Steamship Authority or Hy-Line ferry to Nantucket.
• Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours.
• Cost: Around $30 for the bus and $40 each way for the ferry.

Travel Option 2: Car Rental to Hyannis + Ferry to Nantucket

• Travel Time: About 3-4 hours.
• Parking: Paid parking near the ferry terminal (approximately $20/day).

10:00 AM – Arrival in Nantucket

As you step foot in Nantucket, you will be greeted by a delicious sea breeze as if waiting to embrace you. The sight of cobblestone streets engulfed with historic clapboard houses will be a treat to the eyes. Step ahead of the gentle buzzing of the harbor and move towards Black Eyed Susan’s for a hearty breakfast.

10:15 AM – Breakfast at Black-Eyed Susan’s

• Location: 10 India St, Nantucket, MA
• Directions from Nantucket Ferry Terminal: A 10-minute walk down Broad Street and right on India Street.
• Overview: Begin your day with breakfast at this cozy spot known for its hearty breakfast dishes and friendly atmosphere. Try the French toast or omelet for a tasty start. Visit their website for menus and reservations.
• Cost: Over $20 per person
• Recommended Time: About 30 minutes

Pro Tip: Check the place in advance as they take bookings up to two weeks in advance. Also, check their operational hours, especially, during the fall.

10:45 AM – Brant Point Lighthouse

• Location: 2 Easton St, Nantucket, MA
• Directions from Black-Eyed Susan’s: 20-minute walk or 5-minute bike ride along Easton Street.
• Overview: Walk or bike to Brant Point Lighthouse, the island’s most accessible and historic lighthouse. A great spot for photos and a beautiful view of Nantucket Harbor.
• Cost: Free.
• Duration: 30 minutes.

11:30 AM – Whaling Museum

• Location: 13 Broad St, Nantucket, MA
• Directions from Brant Point Lighthouse: 15-minute walk back along Easton Street to Broad Street.
• Overview: Dive into Nantucket’s rich maritime history with exhibits on the island’s whaling past and artifacts. Don’t miss climbing to the rooftop deck of the Whaling Museum for stunning views of Nantucket Harbor. This vantage point allows you to appreciate the maritime landscape that was once bustling with whaling ships.
• Cost: $20 for students with ID.
• Duration: 1 hour.

List of Activities

• Main Exhibits: Explore a 46-foot Sperm Whale Skeleton, Fresnel Lens, and Portrait of a Whaling Captain.
• Rooftop Observation Deck: Enjoy the panoramic views of Nantucket Harbor.
• Whaling History Theatre: A short film about the Nantucket whaling industry.
• Museum Shop: Books, Souvenirs, and local hand-crafted items are a treat to the eyes.

12:45 PM – Shopping and Exploring on Main Street

• Location: Main St, Nantucket, MA
• Directions from Whaling Museum: 10-minute walk to Main Street.
• Overview: Stroll down Main Street, lined with cobblestone streets, charming shops, and art galleries. Discover unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and Nantucket-inspired gifts.
• Cost: Free to explore; optional shopping.
• Duration: 1 hour.

List of Activities:

• Explore Side Streets: Don’t limit yourself to just Main Street; nearby side streets often host hidden gems with unique offerings.
• Check for Local Events: Keep an eye out for local art walks or special shopping events that may coincide with your visit, providing additional opportunities to engage with local culture, especially during spring and summer. Christmas has its charm in this place which also makes for a good visit.

Pro Tips: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding peak crowds while still enjoying the lively atmosphere.

2:00 PM – Lunch at Something Natural

• Location: 50 Cliff Rd, Nantucket, MA
• Directions from Main Street: 20-minute walk or a quick bike ride to Cliff Road.
• Overview: Known for delicious sandwiches and homemade bread, this local favorite is a great place for a laid-back lunch. Enjoy your meal on the scenic outdoor picnic tables. Check out their menu here!
• Recommended Dishes: Turkey Terrific, Avocado and Cheddar, and Lobster Salad Sandwich.
• Cost: $15-20 per person.
• Recommended Time: 30-40 minutes

Pro Tip: This place is open only until 3 pm, so make sure to time your visit accordingly.

3:00 PM – Cliff Walk and Steps Beach

• Location: 25 Steps Beach Rd, Nantucket, MA
• Directions from Something Natural: 10-minute walk down Cliff Road to Steps Beach.
• Overview: After lunch, take a peaceful walk along the scenic Cliff Walk and relax at Steps Beach. It’s known for its calm waters, sandy shores, and views of Nantucket Sound.
• Cost: Free.
• Duration: 1 hour.

4:20 PM – Sconset Bluff Walk & Sankaty Head Lighthouse

• Location: Siasconset, Nantucket, MA
• Directions from Steps Beach: 20-minute bus ride or a 30-minute bike ride to ‘Sconset.
• Overview: Take a bus or bike to Sconset and stroll along the Bluff Walk, a picturesque trail with views of the ocean and historic cottages. Continue to Sankaty Head Lighthouse for more stunning scenery. For additional information click here!
• List of Activities: Walking along this trail is a must for anyone visiting this island. The spectacular views of the ocean and charming cottages all nestled in lush foliage should be a memory to pocket before heading back to the mainland.
• Cost: Free to explore; bus fares will cost around $3.
• Duration: 1 hour.

Pro Tips

• The walk is a mile long. If you wish to extend your walk until the lighthouse, then an extra half-mile is added to the route.
• Be mindful of the private properties along the trail. Stay on the designated paths.

Carry water and snacks to make the most of your time soaking in the scenery.

5:45 PM – Return to Nantucket Town & Coffee at The Handlebar Cafe

• Location: 15 Washington St, Nantucket, MA
• Overview: Head back to Nantucket Town and relax with a coffee or tea at The Handlebar cafe, a popular cozy spot for students and locals alike. For their menu, click here!
• Recommended Dishes: Locally Roasted Coffee, Pastries, and Bagels
• Cost: $5-10 for coffee and a snack.
• Recommended Time: 30 minutes
• Directions from Sankaty Head Lighthouse: 20-minute bus ride back to Nantucket Town.

6:30 PM – Return Ferry to Hyannis

• Departure: Ferries depart frequently in the evening. Confirm your return trip timing to align with your travel plans.
• Cost: $40 for the fast ferry.

Travel Time: 1- 2 hours of ferry ride (depending on fast and traditional ferry)

7:30 PM – Return to Boston

• Option 1: Take the Peter Pan Bus back to South Station. Transfer to Red Line to reach Ruggles Station.
• Option 2: Rideshare or car rental for the return journey.
• Travel Time: Around 2 to 3 hours by bus and 1.5 hours by car.
• Cost: $30 one-way for bus fare.