Public Beaches

MUSEUMS

ALONGSIDE PRISTINE BEACHES and picturesque towns, Martha’s Vineyard offers many ways to explore its historical roots. The Martha's Vineyard Museum overlooking Lagoon Pond in Vineyard Haven is open. You can take a self-guided (or guided) tour of the African-American Heritage Trail. Or you can venture to Chappaquiddick for a Cape Pogue Lighthouse tour. Other options include seasonally open museums; be sure to call or check websites for updates.

AFRICAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE TRAIL OF MARTHA'S VINEYARD The African-American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard is comprised of 31 sites dedicated to the contributions made by people of African descent to the history of the Island. Each site has a plaque describing its historical significance. Stops on the trail include homesteads, houses of worship, neighborhoods, cemeteries and locations across the Island. Fully guided tours are available to book at mvafricanamericanheritagetrail.org. You can also download the TrailsMV app at sheriffsmeadow.org if you want to visit the sites on your own. Guided tours range in length of time (1.5 hours to 4.5 hours) and price ($40 to $80).

THE CARNEGIE 58 North Water Street, Edgartown. 508-627-4440, vineyardtrust.org. Once Edgartown’s public library, this renovated landmark includes the permanent exhibition, Living Landmarks ($5 suggested donation to view), which illustrates the historical development of Martha’s Vineyard through the lens of the 20 properties in Vineyard Trust’s care. EDGARTOWN FIRE MUSEUM 68 Pease's Point Way South, Edgartown. 508-627-5167, efa1952.org. See historic memorabilia including antique fire wagons from the Edgartown fire department, founded in 1836. Open through mid-October.

MARTHA'S VINEYARD MUSEUM 151 Lagoon Pond Road, Vineyard Haven. 508-627-4441, mvmuseum.org. In 2019, the Museum opened its new campus in Vineyard Haven, which is anchored by the renovated 1895 Marine Hospital high on a hill overlooking the Lagoon. In addition to regular and rotating exhibits, the museum contains the spectacular old Fresnel lens from the Gay Head Light. The campus also features a garden designed by stone artist Lew French and dedicated to poet Rose Styron, as well as a boat barn. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday – Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays through October 11. Winter hours are Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Currently, masks are required. $18: Adults; $15: Seniors; $5: Children ages 6-17; Free: Members & children under 6

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