Winter Wellness Walks

Embrace the quiet of the off-season with free, guided walks for wellness, connection and community. Each walk starts at 1:00 pm and be led by the hosting organization in collaboration with a representative from Fairwinds. All are welcome! Let's get outdoors during the quiet season and enjoy Nantucket's natural environment together! Registration required.

DATES:

Sundays

February 1 - March 31

Locations vary

COST: free



Bug Bonanza

What insects and small creatures live in the grasses, flowers, and trees of Nantucket? Find out as you adventure with MMA Natural Science Museum staff to collect insects like a scientist and learn about the incredible traits and behaviors of all the creates we catch and release. We will also identify the insects, and then release these spiders, ants, and other insects back to their habitat!

Participants must have their own transportation to participate in this program. This program is designed to be interesting for both adults and children ages 4 and up. This program meets at Mill Hill Park, off Prospect Street, please turn into the driveway with the sign that says “Historic Cemetery” and directly on your right is the Mill Hill Park parking lot.

All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program.  Pre-registration is required as this program meets off site. Registration closes 1 hour before the start time of the program.  Program begins promptly at start time and late arrivals may be turned away.

DATES:

Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays

June 11 - September 4

11AM - 11:45AM

COST: $20

Members receive a 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email ekermani@mariamitchell.org

Marine Ecology Field Tripp

What sea creatures live in the Nantucket Harbor? Find out as you help to collect, identify, and release fish, crabs, shrimp, and other marine creatures with our huge seine net. The Harbor is filled with interesting animals that will amaze you in their shapes, colors, and habits. 

This program is designed to be interesting for adults and children ages 10 and older. This program meets at the Hither Creek Beach Access (near 25 Massachusetts Ave. / 41.273923, -70.207293 / Beach Access #52). Overflow parking is located at 6 Massachusetts Avenue.

All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. Pre-registration is required as this program meets off site. Registration closes 12 hours before the start time of the program.  Program begins promptly at start time and late arrivals may be turned away.

DATES:

Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays

June 11 - September 4

8:30AM - 10AM

COST: $35

Members receive a 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email cnorman@mariamitchell.org

Kids' Metal Detecting with Nikoline Bohr

Join expert metal detectorist Nikoline Bohr for an exciting, hands-on adventure designed just for kids! This one-hour beachside program invites young explorers to learn the basics of metal detecting in a fun and engaging way. Participants will discover how to use a metal detector, all while searching for hidden treasures on the beautiful shores of Nantucket. Whether your child is curious about history, loves treasure hunting, or simply enjoys outdoor activities, this program provides a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience. Come uncover the secrets buried in the sand and experience the thrill of discovery!

Pre-registration is required and registration closes 24 hours prior to the program start.

DATES:

June 11 - September 4

Tuesdays

9:30AM - 10:30AM

11AM - 12PM

COST: $30

Members receive a 20% discount

For inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email: nbohr@mariamitchell.org

Fall Beach Biology Field Trip

Did you know that some Nantucketers love to eat mole crabs? Join aquarium staff to learn about the fascinating biology, ecology, and geology that make Nantucket's beaches so unique. We will discover shells and bones of over 15 species of marine animals and are likely to observe live mole crabs, sand fleas, shore birds, beach insects, and seals! This program meets at the Madaket Beach Parking Lot, 3 Chicago St. at 2:00pm. Participants must have their own transportation. At least one adult must sign up with children.

DATES

September 11 - October 4, 2026

Sundays, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

COST: $25

Members receive a 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email cnorman@mariamitchell.org

Fall Marine Ecology Field Trip

What sea creatures live in Nantucket Harbor? Find out as you help collect, identify and release fish, crabs, shrimp, and other marine life! The Harbor is filled with interesting animals that will amaze you in their shapes, colors, and habits. This program is part of a long-term research project and is interesting for adults and children alike. This program meets at the Hither Creek Beach Access, 25 Massachusetts Ave. Madaket at 2:00 PM. Participants must have their own transportation. At least one adult must sign up with children.

DATES

September 11 - 26, 2026

Saturdays, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

COST: $25

Members receive a 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email cnorman@mariamitchell.org

Marine Storytime

Enjoy this program designed for the young aquatic in your family! During each session, a MMA educator will read a marine or science themed book, introduce you to one of the MMA's animal friends, and will finish up with an activity related to the story. This is a reoccurring program, but the specific focus and materials provided will change each week.

This program is designed to be interesting for children ages 3 and older. This program meets at the MMA Aquarium at 32 Washington Street, Nantucket MA. All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. Pre-registration is recommended as programs do fill up but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability. Program begins promptly at start time.

DATES:

Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays

June 11 - September 4

9:15AM - 10:00AM

COST:$15

Youth Members: Free

Chaperones: Free

Members receive a 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email cnorman@mariamitchell.org

Owl Prowl

Night-time has always had a mysterious appeal, which brings out a whole new cast of avian and other creatures. It requires patience, and a shift of consciousness from sight to hearing. Join the MMA's Field Ornithologist, Ginger Andrews, as we listen for calls of a variety of nocturnal animals and birds. We will watch for owls as they begin their nightly activity. While an owl sighting is not guaranteed, you will certainly be able to observe several fascinating nocturnal animal species.

This program is designed to be interesting for adults and children ages 8 and older. This program meets at the MMA Administrative Office at 4 Vestal Street, Nantucket MA. All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program.  Flashlights or headlamps will be provided, but it is recommended that you bring your own lighting. Pre-registration is required for this program. Registration deadline: 4pm, the day of the program. Program begins promptly at start time and late arrivals may be turned away. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be cancelled and participants notified via email.

DATES:

Thursdays

June 11 - October 15

Times vary with sunset

COST: $30

Members receive a 20% discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email:

ekermani@mariamitchell.org

Night at the Aquarium

Join MMA aquarists for an evening at the MMA Aquarium after public operating hours! Discover what some of your favorite fishy friends do when the sun falls below the horizon and the moon fills the sky. Learn about animal nocturnal superpowers – like enhanced night vision or sleeping with half their brain awake! Plus, you’ll get to meet our animal ambassadors and learn how they are perfectly adapted for their adventures after dark.

This program meets at the MMA Aquarium located at 32 Washington Street, Nantucket. This program is appropriate for adults and children ages 5 and older. All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. Pre-registration is required for this program. Registration deadline: 4pm, the day of the program. Program begins promptly at start time and late arrivals may be turned away.

DATES:

Tuesdays

June 11 - September 4

8:30PM - 9:30PM

COST:$20

Members receive a 20% discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email cnorman@mariamitchell.org

"Look Up!" at Loines Observatory

Join our astronomers for an impressive tour of Nantucket’s night sky. Get a chance to view the moon, planets, stars, nebulae, and even distant galaxies through the MMA’s telescopes! Learn more about the constellations, phases of the moon, the planets, and why eclipses happen.

This community-centered stargazing program is designed to be engaging and interactive for Nantucket students, educators, and families of all ages but with a special focus on young adults and students of K-12 grades learning about the Nantucket night sky.

This program will take place at the Maria Mitchell Association’s Loines Observatory located at 59 Milk Street Extension. Registration is required for this program which begins promptly at event time. All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. In the event of inclement weather (rain or thunderstorm threat), the event will be cancelled. Please check our website on the day of the event for updates on weather related cancellations, we will post by 5pm if the event will be cancelled.

COST:  $10

Free to Nantucket Island Residents

DATES:

Friday

November 14

6PM - 7PM

For school group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email programs@mariamitchell.org  for more information.

Nighttime Marine Ecology Field Trip

Nantucket Harbor teems with exciting marine life at night that is not visible in the day. Join our aquarium staff to learn about the fish, squid, crabs, and other creatures that come out to feed, at night, in the shallow harbor waters. 

This program is designed to be interesting for adults and children ages 10 and older. Nighttime Marine Ecology meets at the Maria Mitchell Aquarium at 32 Washington Street, Nantucket MA.

All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program.  Flashlights or headlamps will be provided, but it is recommended that you bring your own lighting.  Pre-registration is required for this nighttime program. Registration closes 5 hours before the program start time. Program begins promptly at start time and late arrivals may be turned away.

DATES:

Bi-weekly Thursdays

June 11 - August 28

Times vary with tides

COST: $35

Members receive a 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email cnorman@mariamitchell.org

MMA Learning Lab:

Daring Daughters: Celebrating Our Island's Trailblazing Women

MMA Learning Lab – a series of 90 minute workshops on a range of topics designed to spark curiosity, brought to life by MMA experts and special guests.

This month, Jascin Leonardo Finger, MMA Deputy Director and Curator of the Mitchell House, Archives and Special Collections, will host an in person talk about Nantucket’s fascinating women’s history . During this talk, she will share her research concerning the place of women in Nantucket’s history and the US and highlight some of these important women and their accomplishments and influence.

This program is designed to be interesting for adults. This program meets at the MMA Research Center, 2 Vestal St. Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required.

DATES:

Friday, March 6

3PM - 4:30PM

COST: $10

Free for MMA Members

email: programs@mariamitchell.org

Adult Metal Detecting 101

Join expert metal detectorist Nikoline Bohr for an exciting afternoon on the beautiful shores of Nantucket! This hands-on introductory course is designed for adults eager to explore the world of metal detecting.

Participants will learn the fundamentals of operating a metal detector, from basic techniques to uncovering hidden treasures buried beneath the sand. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to refine your skills, this adventure offers a unique opportunity to connect with the thrill of discovery in a relaxed, enjoyable setting. Don’t miss out on the chance to uncover the secrets that the beach holds!

This program is designed to be interesting for adults. This program meets at the MMA Aquarium, 32 Washington St. Pre-registration is required and registration closes at 12pm on the day of the program.

DATES:

June 11 - August 28

Tuesdays

4:00PM - 5:00PM

COST: $40

Members receive 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email nbohr@mariamitchell.org

En Plein Air

with Nikoline Bohr

Step outside and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Nantucket with En Plein Air, an outdoor painting and drawing class designed to help you capture the island's stunning landscapes in vibrant color. Led by Nikoline Bohr, this class will guide you through the techniques of plein air painting—creating art directly from nature. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, you’ll learn how to observe, sketch, and paint the beauty of Nantucket’s beaches, gardens, and historic architecture.

This hands-on experience will inspire your creativity and allow you to bring the island’s charm to life on canvas or paper. Join us for a relaxing and enriching session that combines the joys of art, nature, and the breathtaking scenery of Nantucket.

This program is designed to be interesting for adults. Program location will be shared the day before the scheduled event. Pre-registration is required and registration closes at 3pm the day before the program. Materials are provided.

DATES:

June 11 - October 5

Mondays

10AM - 11:30AM

COST:$40

Members receive 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email: nbohr@mariamitchell.org

Preserving the Monuments of Our Ancestors: How to Properly Clean Historic Gravestones

Join the curator of the Maria Mitchell House and the Prospect Hill Cemetery Association historian for a short talk about stone monuments and their conservation. The class will then move to the Prospect Hill Cemetery where participants will learn how to properly clean stone monuments. Class will be hands on so please wear appropriate clothing. 

Please note that this class is to teach others so that they can clean their family's stone monuments. One must speak with the sextant of a cemetery before doing this. One must not work on stones not belonging to their family unless it is through a special program that has been approved by the cemetery and other officials.

This program meets at the Maria Mitchell House 1 Vestal Street Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. In the event of inclement weather, programs will be cancelled and participants will be notified.

DATES:

Saturday, June 13

10:00AM - 12:00PM

COST: $15

Members receive a 20% discount, discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email jfinger@mariamitchell.org

Family Sailors’ Valentines

A great time for you and your child to learn and create together! Join the curator of the Maria Mitchell House and create your own version of a sailors' valentine by decorating a small Shaker-style box or picture frame - something to be enjoyed and remembered for years to come. We provide all supplies - you bring your imagination and creativity! Adults must remain with their child for the entire duration of the program.



This paired program is designed for an adult and child ages 5 and older. This program meets at the MMA Hinchman House Natural Science Museum courtyard at 2 Vestal Street, Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required as space is limited to 8 participants. 

DATES:

June 29

July 13

10:00AM - 11:30AM

COST PER PAIR:$55

Each Additional Child - $10

Members receive20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email jfinger@mariamitchell.org

Maria Mitchell and the Daring Daughters of Nantucket Island

Join the curator of the Maria Mitchell House, Jascin Leonardo Finger, for a walking tour concerning the lives of Maria Mitchell and Nantucket's famous and infamous women, as well as the lesser known women of our island. Learn why whaling, Quakerism, and the isolation of an island afforded these women opportunities that women elsewhere in America at the time were not afforded.

This program meets at the Maria Mitchell House 1 Vestal Street Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. In the event of inclement weather, programs will be cancelled and participants will be notified.

DATES:

Saturday, May 2

Saturday, June 20

Friday, September 4

Saturday, September 19

10:00AM - 12:00PM

COST: $15

Members receive a 20% discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email jfinger@mariamitchell.org

Four Centuries Domestic Architecture Tour

A unique and extremely popular collaborative walking tour with the MMA's Deputy Director & Curator of the Mitchell House, the Preservation Trust, and the Nantucket Historical Association that looks at the changes in domestic life over four centuries and how it shaped homes, buildings, neighborhoods, and land use. Tour may include brief visits inside some of the sites visited.

This program meets at the Oldest House, 16 Sunset Hill Lane Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is recommended as programs do fill up but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability. In the event of inclement weather, programs will be cancelled and participants will be notified.

DATES:

Saturday, May 9

Saturday, June 6

Saturday, September 5

Saturday, October 3

10:00AM - 12:00PM

COST: $25

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email jfinger@mariamitchell.org

Feeding Frenzy

Join MMA Aquarists and staff on a tour as they feed the ever-hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens to the public. You will learn all about the fascinating marine animals as you observe their unique feeding behaviors. This is a great way to learn about the diverse marine animals in the Nantucket Harbor and beyond.

This program is designed to be interesting for adults and children. This program meets at the Maria Mitchell Aquarium at 32 Washington St. All registered children must be accompanied by at least one registered adult to participate in this program.



Pre-registration is recommended as programs do fill up but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability. Program begins promptly at start time and late arrivals may be turned away.

DATES:

Daily

June 11 - September 4

9:00AM - 9:45AM

COST: $175

This flat-rate program can accommodate 1 group of up to 5 guests. Members receive a 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email cnorman@mariamitchell.org