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Hannah Burlingame

The Old Whaling Church, one of the best things to do and see in Edgartown.

Found in the heart of downtown Edgartown, Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites is surrounded by adventure. When you stay at our charming boutique hotel, you are close to some of the best things to do in Edgartown, some of which are within walking distance. Keep reading to learn more about some of the things you can reach within a 15-minute walk, including scenic harbor views, historic sites, and shopping.

Edgartown’s historic downtown is compact and pedestrian-friendly. This means that even if you don’t feel like hopping on one of our bike rentals or riding the bus, exploring is a breeze. 

10 Minutes or Less

Walk out the front door of our Edgartown hotel, and you’ll find a number of places to visit. Go for a walk down Main Street and browse shops and galleries. Head to Edgartown Harbor to go for a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy coastal views. Check out the Old Whaling Church, a local landmark that’s only a few minutes away. The Vincent House Museum, a preserved 17th-century house, gives a look at island history and is only about seven minutes away.

10-15 Minutes

Sneak in a bit of reading at the Edgartown Public Library, which also offers breathtaking harbor views. Go for a hike through the Sheriff’s Meadow Sanctuary, which is open from dawn to dusk. One of the area’s most iconic attractions, the Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse, is only a short walk from our hotel. While it’s a little bit more than 15 minutes, Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery is close enough that you can walk to enjoy craft beer.

Make Vineyard Square Your Edgartown Home Base

The front porch of a Martha's Vineyard hotel to relax on after exploring things to do in Edgartown.

When you stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites, not only are you within walking distance of memorable things to do in Edgartown, but you also have a peaceful place to call home. Relax on our front porch or unwind in the private courtyard. For an easy and delicious dinner, check out Chesca’s Restaurant, which is located right at our hotel.

When you’re ready to call it a night, unwind in the comfort of your well-appointed room. Because our Edgartown hotel offers an array of accommodations, you can find the one that fits your group size and budget best. From luxury suites to dog-friendly rooms to harborview rooms and more, we have it all. Call 508-627-4711 to speak with someone today about what makes us one of the best places to stay on Martha’s Vineyard or how our special offers can help you save.

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A seal in the water, which is wildlife you can see in Massachusetts.

Martha’s Vineyard is the perfect place to escape to when you’re craving the slower pace of life. The popular New England vacation destination is known for its laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites, there is no shortage of things to do that’ll have you exploring the island’s beauty while taking it easy. In fact, some of the best things to do also give you a chance to get an up-close look at the wildlife found in Massachusetts.

Before getting into where you can see wildlife, it’s important to know what to look for. The Vineyard and surrounding water are home to an array of animals, including harbor seals, over 300 species of birds, deer, blue crabs, and so much more.

Visit a Wildlife Refuge or Nature Area

Some of the best places to see animals that call Martha’s Vineyard home are wildlife refuges and nature areas. The Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary is a top destination for wildlife and bird watching. It also offers guided walks and seasonal wildlife programs. There’s also the Long Point Wildlife Refuge, which is over 600 acres of dunes, woodland, beachfront, and trails.

Go on a Boat Tour

Book your spot on wildlife-centric boat tours to explore marine life like seals and seabirds. Plan Sea Adventure Charters, which departs from Edgartown, is excellent for scenic sailing and wildlife watching. Another great option is Sail the Vineyard, a Vineyard Haven-based charter whose tours include wildlife viewing and scenic ocean experiences. 

Other Opportunities

There are countless other ways to spot animals on your Martha’s Vineyard vacation. Grab a pair of binoculars and head to Wasque or Cape Poge in the fall or winter to look for seals. Wait for low tide and look for crabs and shells in tidepools. For a unique animal encounter, check out the Island Alpaca Company, which hosts events like alpaca yoga and alpaca walks.

Enjoy Some R&R on a Martha’s Vineyard Vacation

Bike rentals an Edgartown hotel to use to search for wildlife in Massachusetts.

You don’t have to wait for a special occasion to plan a getaway to Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Now is the perfect time to pack your bags and treat yourself to a break from everyday life by planning a getaway to our hotel in Edgartown. During your stay, enjoy encounters with wildlife in Massachusetts, search for the best lobster roll, and so much more.

When you make us your preferred home base, you’ll find everything you need for an unforgettable stay. Choose from our selection of well-appointed accommodations, including luxury suites and even pet-friendly rooms. Take advantage of our incredible amenities, like in-season continental breakfast, concierge services, free bike rentals, and afternoon treats. 

See for yourself why we are one of the best hotels in Edgartown by reserving your stay today. Learn more about our Martha’s Vineyard hotel or how to save on your stay by calling 508-627-4711.

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Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Guide | Answers to Your Questions
Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll on Martha’s Vineyard
Who Wins in the Battle of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard?
Where to Take Photos on Martha’s Vineyard
A group of people exploring a popular attraction on their Martha's Vineyard weekend getaway.

Sometimes all you need to recharge your batteries is three days and an unforgettable destination. With its salty sea air, charming cobblestone streets, and a slower pace of life, Martha’s Vineyard is the perfect place to head for a weekend getaway. Whether you arrive by ferry or plane, the New England island feels like a world away from ordinary life the minute you arrive. Position yourself to enjoy the best the Vineyard has to offer by booking your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. To help you plan a vacation that’s equal parts relaxing and adventurous, we’ve put together this sample Friday to Sunday itinerary. 

Friday: Arrive & Explore Edgartown

While you can’t check in to your room until 3 p.m., that doesn’t mean you have to wait until then to start having fun. Stop by to drop off your bags, then set off to explore Edgartown. Treat yourself to some retail therapy at local shops, like The Black Dog and Edgartown Books. Go for a walk to Edgartown Lighthouse, one of the best spots to enjoy golden-hour views over the harbor. Enjoy a delicious meal at Chesca’s Restaurant, which is found right at our Edgartown hotel. We recommend turning in early so you can rest up for a Saturday full of fun.

Saturday: Discover the Magic of the Vineyard

Saturday is likely your only full day on the Vineyard, which means it’s the perfect time to explore some of the attractions and sights the island has to offer. Before you get too far into your adventures, fuel up at a local coffee shop like Espresso Love. Once you’re properly caffeinated, set off on memorable adventures. Popular options include:

1. Seeing the famous colorful clay cliffs in Aquinnah

2. Going on a sightseeing tour with Martha’s Vineyard Sightseeing Bus

3. Fishing with a local charter

4. Going for a ride on the Flying Horses Carousel

5. Exploring the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest

6. Taking in the colorful gingerbread cottages that make up part of the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association

7. Taking in the sunset on a cruise with Mad Max Charters 

You’re sure to get hungry throughout your adventures. Luckily, there are plenty of incredible places to eat all over the Vineyard. Try some of the best lobster rolls at Square Rigger Restaurant, or stop by a cafe like Rosewater Market. End your day with a nightcap at nearby Rockfish.

Sunday: A Slow Farewell

On your final day, enjoy a delicious breakfast at Edgartown Diner before going for one last walk along the shoreline at Joseph Sylvia State Beach, which was a main shooting location in Jaws. As you head out of town, swing by any of the above attractions you didn’t get to visit on Saturday.

Book Your Martha’s Vineyard Vacation in Edgartown

A place to relax at a Martha's Vineyard hotel on a weekend getaway.

Before you can create your own perfect Martha’s Vineyard weekend getaway itinerary, you need to book your accommodations. There’s no better place to stay than Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Our boutique hotel features well-appointed accommodations that are perfect for groups of all sizes. With fantastic on-site amenities and cost-saving special offers, we have everything you could want from a home away from home. Call 508-627-4711 to learn more.

Walkable Fun | Things to Do in Edgartown near Our Hotel
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Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll on Martha’s Vineyard
Who Wins in the Battle of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard?
Where to Take Photos on Martha’s Vineyard
A woman biking on a Martha's Vineyard vacation.

If you’re dreaming of a coastal getaway destination that’s known for its laid-back atmosphere, abundance of natural beauty, and array of activities, Martha’s Vineyard should be at the top of your list. The popular New England spot is the ideal place to go when you need to recharge your batteries. If your upcoming Martha’s Vineyard vacation to Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites is your first time to the Vineyard, keep reading to learn more about what to do on your visit.

How Do You Get to Martha’s Vineyard?

Before diving into things to do while you’re here, let’s first discuss how to not only get to Martha’s Vineyard but also get around once you’re here. The most popular way to reach the Vineyard is by ferry. There are several services departing from different ports, so you can easily find one that’s close to you. Once you reach the island, there are a number of modes of transportation to get you from our Edgartown hotel to your adventures, including public transportation and bikes.

Where to Dine?

There’s no shortage of restaurants to try during your Martha’s Vineyard vacation. If you’re looking to try some of the best lobster rolls the island has to offer, stop by Square Rigger Restaurant or The Seafood Shanty. For a sweet treat, check out The Scoop Shack, Rosewater Cafe, or Mudrick’s Fudge. Head to Alchemy to try the risotto balls, or make reservations to dine at Chesca’s Restaurant, found right at our hotel. Our local and knowledgeable staff can provide even more recommendations on their favorite places to dine.

Must-See Sights

There’s something to see everywhere you look. Visit the oldest operating carousel in the country by heading to Oak Bluffs to ride the Flying Horses Carousel. Learn about local history at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, which is filled with local artifacts. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to the Egartown Lighthouse, which you can climb when it’s open for the season. One of the best ways to see a number of attractions is on a bus tour, like the Martha’s Vineyard Sightseeing Bus.

What to Do?

When researching what to do on Martha’s Vineyard, it won’t take long to discover the wealth of adventure. One of the best things about a Martha’s Vineyard getaway is that you can do as much or as little as you want. Check out one of our complimentary bike rentals and explore the island on two wheels. If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love sailing with Pirate Adventures Martha’s Vineyard. For an adventure-filled day on the water, book your spot with a local fishing charter. Spend a day exploring the charming nearby Chappaquiddick Island, home to the 200-acre Wasque. Our blog is a great place to turn for ideas of things to do during your stay at our Edgartown hotel.

Make Our Edgartown Hotel Your Go-To Home Base

A sitting area of an Edgartown hotel room to book for a Martha's Vineyard vacation.

As you start planning your first Martha’s Vineyard vacation, where you stay can make all the difference. Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites is the perfect home base for everyone from solo travelers to families and every group in between. Our boutique hotel has everything you need to relax and unwind during your stay. 

Our accommodations include one-bedroom suites, dog-friendly rooms, harborview rooms, and more. Having such an array means we can host groups big and small. Our hotel also features a number of amenities, like concierge services, a fitness center, afternoon treats, and more. Call 508-627-4711 to learn more about what makes us one of the best hotels on Martha’s Vineyard and our current special offers.

Walkable Fun | Things to Do in Edgartown near Our Hotel
Where to Get an Up-Close Look at Wildlife in Massachusetts
Create a Martha’s Vineyard Weekend Getaway Itinerary
A First Timer’s Guide to Martha’s Vineyard Vacation
Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Guide | Answers to Your Questions
Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll on Martha’s Vineyard
Who Wins in the Battle of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard?
Where to Take Photos on Martha’s Vineyard
A couple planning their Martha's Vineyard vacation.

When Martha’s Vineyard starts to slow down for the off-season, it’s time to turn your attention to planning next year’s memorable escape. From booking your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites to researching memorable things to do, there are plenty of things to do before your Martha’s Vineyard vacation. To help you get ready, we’ve put together a guide to frequently asked questions travelers have before they arrive.

How Do You Get to Martha’s Vineyard?

The best way to reach Martha’s Vineyard is by ferry. There are several service options available, and your best one will depend on where you are departing from. For example, the Steamship Authority is a great option for those departing from Woods Hole and bringing their car. There’s also Seastreak, which has fast ferry service from New Bedford. If you’re visiting between May and September, check out the Rhode Island Fast Ferry, which is a seasonal and passenger-only ferry.

Another great option that not everyone knows about is flying. Cape Air, Delta, and JetBlue all offer in-season flights.

Pro Tip: Book your ferry reservations early, especially if you are visiting during the peak season.

What Is the Best Way to Get Around the Island?

While you can bring your car, there are plenty of other ways to get from our Edgartown hotel to your adventures. Public transportation courtesy of the Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority is a great option. Some routes connect you to every town on the island. 

You can also go for a scenic ride on a rental bike. While we do offer complimentary bike rentals to our guests, we only have a limited number. If ours are all checked out, stop by Wheel Happy Bike Shops and Edgartown Bicycles.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning on riding the bus, purchase a multi-day pass.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

The best time to visit can vary greatly depending on what you want to do during your stay. Summer is peak season and has great water and lively events. Soak in the sunshine at local beaches like Lighthouse Beach, or go on a sailing tour with Nauti Girl Excursions.

For a more relaxed and less crowded visit, plan your stay for late spring or early fall. For those visiting in the spring, you can enjoy popular natural attractions like the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest or the Island Alpaca Company without worrying about large crowds.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in the off-season, many businesses close or operate on shorter hours, so be sure to check websites for up-to-date information.

What Amenities Do We Offer?

A group of people on bikes on their Martha's Vineyard vacation.

Our hotel offers you more than a well-appointed room. We also have a number of amenities, all designed to enhance your stay. This list includes complimentary in-season continental breakfast, a fitness center, free bike rental, complimentary off-site parking, free use of beach chairs, board games, and afternoon treats.

Pro Tip: Be sure to stop by our front desk to ask our friendly staff for recommendations on where to eat and things to do during your Martha’s Vineyard vacation.

When Should You Book Your Stay at Our Edgartown Hotel?

Now! Winter is the best time to plan your Martha’s Vineyard vacation. Booking your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites early means you can get your top choice of lodging. Reserving your accommodation early means you have one less thing to worry about as your trip draws closer. Learn more about our hotel on Martha’s Vineyard and how to save by calling 508-627-4711.

Walkable Fun | Things to Do in Edgartown near Our Hotel
Where to Get an Up-Close Look at Wildlife in Massachusetts
Create a Martha’s Vineyard Weekend Getaway Itinerary
A First Timer’s Guide to Martha’s Vineyard Vacation
Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Guide | Answers to Your Questions
Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll on Martha’s Vineyard
Who Wins in the Battle of Cape Cod vs Martha’s Vineyard?
Where to Take Photos on Martha’s Vineyard