Great Point Lighthouse, Nantucket.
Nantucket is renowned for its vibrant summer season - and with such stunning beaches and world class restaurants, it's easy to see why. But what happens when the temperature drops, the droves of visitors return home and many of the shops close their doors until next year? Though the island may be quiet by comparison, there are still many reasons why we choose to stay beyond Labor Day. From tranquil sunrises on the beach to cooking classes with friends, it is this slower pace that makes Nantucket in the winter so special - the yin and the yang of the seasons, from the bustling Summer to the serene Winter.
Being a year-round business, we have a soft spot for winter at Nantucket Looms. Here are seven of our favorite things to do when the Grey Lady is that little bit more grey and the beaches are a little bit less crowded.
Beaches - The island's beautiful beaches are not just to be enjoyed from May to September. The good thing about winter? The sun rises later so you can sleep in for longer and still be up in time to catch the sunrise! Wrap up warm, grab a blanket and a hot coffee and head to Sconset to see the sunrise.
Cisco Brewery - Photo by @nakednantucketer.
Enjoy a locally-brewed beer - Like Nantucket Looms, Cisco Brewery is a year-round establishment. Not only does the brewery stay open throughout the winter months, they also have live music every day. The perfect spot to meet with friends (and their dogs!), the beer garden turns into a cozy wintertime bar with a tent enclosure and warm heaters. Not to be missed is their 'Pints and Paints' event every Tuesday evening from 5-7pm, where you can enjoy a local beer with friends while getting in touch with your artistic side.
Lola 41
Dine out - There are so many options for amazing restaurants on Nantucket in the summer season but few that keep their doors open throughout the quietest months. Luckily, among those that do, is Lola 41 - a favorite among the staff here at Nantucket Looms. Their Tuna Burger is one of the best and if you have a small group and you can get there early enough, the cozy nook on the left as you enter the restaurant is a real treat and almost feels like a private dining experience.
Weaving Studio at Nantucket Looms
Experience the tradition of hand weaving at Nantucket Looms - Upstairs at 51 Main Street, Nantucket Looms artisan weavers are hard at work, regardless of the season, bringing to life beautiful handwoven textiles using traditional wooden looms. All are welcome to visit the weaving studio any time of year to experience this beautiful time-honored craft.
Nantucket Culinary Centre
Take a cooking class at Nantucket Culinary Center - Nantucket Looms is proud to have been involved in the interior design and space planning of this wonderful new demonstrative kitchen and event space. What better way to spend a winter's evening than learning to cook a delicious dish like their 'Winter, Winter Chicken Dinner' or a cozy curry? Make sure to check out their website for up to date information on classes.
The Yoga Room
Take a yoga class at The Yoga Room - One of the things we love about winter on Nantucket is the opportunity to wind down - a very rare thing during the bustling summer months. With no traffic or crowds, it is the perfect time to focus on mind, body and spirit. The Yoga room offers year-round classes and its beautiful, tranquil setting and experienced instructors will help even the busiest of us to find some peace and quiet.
'The Whaleship Essex' by Mark Sutherland at Nantucket Whaling Museum.
Learn about Nantucket's whaling history at the Whaling Museum - No trip to the island is complete without a visit to the Whaling Museum. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy this charming museum's displays of historical artifacts and it's famous sperm whale skeleton. For those interested in the recent Hollywood depiction of 'In The Heart of the Sea', there is a display featuring the Whaleship Essex that should not be missed.
