Fall is the opposite of spring. Nowhere have I seen the contrast of the two as obvious as on Martha’s Vineyard. In April, we see a world coming slowly and ambitiously to life. I’m not just talking about the overnight sensation of your brown lawn suddenly showing little patches of lime green. I liken what happens here to ants coming back out of the ground. Suddenly, workmen on ladders are taking plywood down from windows and sprucing up storefronts, and shopkeepers are dusting and sweeping and carting in new merchandise. Seasonal homeowners, fed up with winter, venture back to open up musty houses in hopes that it will hasten the advent of summer. And if we’re lucky enough to get some sunny weekends, brave souls in shorts, but still wearing layers of sweatshirts, descend on the towns to get a jump on the new season. Those of us who live here have fun taking note of the local merchants who move to new venues, thinking the change will bring them a better season than the last. The most positive sign that things are on the upswing is the first time the ferry pulls into Oak Bluffs since last fall. Hope is definitely in the air.
Ah, but I am a fall person. I’ve never bought the theory that it’s a time when everything dies or goes to sleep. There’s a tingle in the air that makes this time of year at least as promising as spring. If you’ve read my previous blogs, you know how I feel about the colors of fall, the long shadows, and the unique quality of the light of October and November. Driving my daily commute from Oak Bluffs to Edgartown, I can barely keep my eyes on the road the marsh grasses on the pond are such a delicious palette of ochres, rusts, greens, and lavenders. And the road, as it takes you toward the Triangle is dappled with sunlight filtering through the tunnel of the tree limbs overhead. You have to beware of deer, fooled by the autumn light into thinking it’s evening, running out in front of you here.
The whole experience is spring in reverse. One by one, we watch the seasonal stores and restaurants locking their doors and posting, “Thank you for a great season” signs in their windows. Now is the time to take advantage of fabulous sales. No department stores with specially brought in sale merchandise here. What you get is dramatically marked down prices on all the unique items you were eyeing in August. Bring your holiday gift list.
You’ll find that activities and entertainment don’t disappear when we roll up the beaches. In fact, there is no better time than an autumn day for a long walk on a beach that was closed to all but town residents in the summer. We still have theater right through the holidays. We have concerts and dance parties, complete with pre-party lessons. Nature walks and kayaking are breathtaking events. Restaurants have specials and two-for-one nights (more on those specials soon). And local bay scallops are in season!
Where we island people made note of location changes in the spring, we now take joy in counting the restaurants that are staying open for the off season. This year, there are several special new ones; State Road in West Tisbury, Deon’s in Oak Bluffs, The Atlanticin Edgartown, and The Mediterranean in its new Oak Bluffs location. Come enjoy dining with the locals who venture out to dine after the throngs have dispersed. You’ll find some of us may be a bit quirky, but in general, we’re a very nice lot and enjoy talking to the visitors who, like us, appreciate our island at this special time of year.
Situated in the heart of downtown Edgartown rests Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Located close to charming shops and world-class restaurants, the charming Edgartown hotel is a top option for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing Martha’s Vineyard getaway for a reason. In honor of our many years serving vacationers, we wanted to take a […]
As temperatures continue to drop and fall settles in, many people start looking ahead and working on their holiday plans. For families trying to get away this year and make the season extra special, consider packing your bags and staying at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Our charming boutique hotel is the perfect home base […]
There are a few ways you can make it through each adventure-filled day during your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. One is a mid-day nap in your cozy guestroom, and another is with a pick-me-up from a local coffee shop. Sometimes the answer is a delicious meal, and there are plenty of options […]
Everywhere you look, there is something new to discover on Martha’s Vineyard. Whether staying at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites for a week or weekend, there is no shortage of things to keep you entertained. While you can set off on self-guided tours, there is something enjoyable about letting experienced guides show you around. Let […]
When choosing where to stay on your Martha’s Vineyard getaway, you want a hotel that’s centrally located while also providing a tranquil space to call home. You get exactly that at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Our boutique hotel is ideal for anyone looking to escape everyday life for a while, including couples planning a […]
Located in the heart of Edgartown rests Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. This charming boutique hotel is surrounded by quaint shops, incredible dining options, and so much more. However, Edgartown is only one of six towns that make up Martha’s Vineyard. On your next stay with us, consider planning a day trip to check out […]
If Memorial Day is the kick-start of summer, then the Fourth of July is the height of the season. This holiday is marked by parades, colorful fireworks, and endless laughter. If you’re looking for a way to up the fun this year, plan a getaway to Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Our Edgartown hotel is […]
While summer is the perfect season for visiting Edgartown, any time of year is a great time to book your stay at Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites. Spring in New England, also known as shoulder season or off-season, is an excellent time of year to visit Martha’s Vineyard. For anyone looking to live like a […]