Nantucket Bird Walk with Ginger Andrews

Explore Nantucket’s birdy landscapes and hidden nooks with local bird guide and Inquirer and Mirror columnist, Ginger Andrews. With so many varied habitats so close together, the Island is a great place to look and listen for birds. Our location out at sea makes for a fascinating mix of migratory species and year-round residents. Dry humor—always useful in a foggy environment—natural and human history, unexpected rarities, and other stories fill out the picture. Children 8 and up are welcome with an adult guardian. Loner binoculars available. Wear sensible shoes, dress for the weather. You never know what may turn up.

This program meets at the MMA 33 Washington Street property at 7:45 AM. This program will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather and a ticket exchange issued for an alternative date.Pre-registration is suggested, walk ins subject to availability. Program begins promptly at start time and late arrivals may be turned away.

COST:$20

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

Sundays

September 8 - September 29

7:45AM - 10:00AM

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email programs@mariamitchell.org

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. All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. 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. Pre-registration is required as this program occurs off-site. Program begins promptly at start time and late arrivals may be turned away.

COST:$10

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

Saturdays & Sundays

September 7 - September 28

1:00 PM - 1:45PM

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email programs@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 1 hour before the start time of the program.

Cost Per Participant: $25

Contact email: cnorman@mariamitchell.org

COST:$25

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

Saturdays

September 14 - October 5

Times vary

Sundays

September 15 - October 6

Times vary

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email programs@mariamitchell.org

Sustainable Scalloping

COST:$25

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays

October 1 - November 24

Times vary

Contact: cnorman@mariamitchell.org

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email programs@mariamitchell.org

Earth Story Walk & Talk

Carl Sagan once wrote, "The Earth is a very small stage in a vast cosmic arena." While that may be true in terms of physical size, the Earth's 4.6 billion-year history is anything but boring. Join the MMA's Scientist-In-Residence, Dr. Rich Blundell on a journey through the extraordinary story of planet Earth. Each stride of this 4.6km (2.9 mile) walk will account for approximately one million years of Earth and human history. Along the way we will stop to explore the major thresholds of geologic time and also reconsider how the events and processes of deep time have led to our current global state of existence. By considering the broader scales of the Earth's story we will gain new insights to interpret the science in more meaningful ways.

This program is designed to be interesting for inquisitive adults. This program meets at the Gardner Farm property at 185 Hummock Pond Road. In the case of inclement weather, we will hold the event indoors at the MMA Research Center at 2 Vestal Street.

Pre-registration is required for this event.

DATES

June 1 - September 28

Thursdays

10am- 11:30am

Cost Per Participant: $15

(Members receive a 10% discount)

Private group: Call 508.228.9198

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.

COST:$15

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays

June 9 - August 30

9:15AM - 10AM

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.

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

April 11th

8:30PM - 9:30PM

May 9th

9PM - 10PM

Pre-registration is required, walk ins subject to availability.

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

Full Moon Nature Walk

Join Joanna Roche on a peaceful one hour walk (up to 2 miles on uneven terrain) under the light of the full Moon. Discover the legends and narratives of the past and present. Enjoy the tranquility of the quiet night sky and learn about our Moon's current themes and its important symbolism.

Our complimentary under the stars experience meets at a rotating location, you will be emailed with the walk location on the day of the program. 

Pre-registration is required as space is limited. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be cancelled and participants notified. This walk is designed to be interesting for adults and children ages 8 and older. Dress for the current weather conditions and bring your flashlights or headlamps! 

COST: Free to all

DATES:

December 15

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

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

Night at the Aquarium

Join MMA aquarists for an evening at the MMA Aquarium. Your Aquarium After Dark adventure begins as you enter the Aquarium after public operating hours and are greeted by an ambassador. You’ll learn about the eating habits of some of the Aquarium’s residents. Discover what the sharks and some of your favorite fishy friends do when the sun falls below the horizon and the moon fills the sky in a magical twilight reveal. Learn about animal nocturnal super powers – like enhanced night vision or sleeping with half their brain awake! Plus, you’ll get to meet an animal ambassador and learn how they are perfectly adapted for their adventures after dark. Every Night at the Aquarium program will specifically focus on a dedicated scientific topic! Each event is open to visitors of all ages.

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 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 and late arrivals may be turned away.

COST: $20

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

Thursdays

June 13 - September 5

8:00PM - 9:30PM

Registration deadline: 7pm, the day of the program

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email cnorman@mariamitchell.org

Night at the Museum

Join MMA naturalists for an evening at the Hinhcman House Natural Science Museum. Together we will tap into our curious nature to uncover more secrets of the natural world, learn amazing natural history facts, see museum specimens up close, experience our specimen touch table, see live specimen prep, and hang out in our activity room featuring various arts & crafts activities!. Every Night at the Museum, this program will specifically focus on a dedicated scientific topic! Each event is open to visitors of all ages.

This program meets at the Hinchman House Natural Science Museum located at 7 Milk Street, Nantucket. This program is appropriate for adults and children ages 5 and older. All registered children must be accompanied by a 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.

COST: $20

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

Tuesdays

June 10 - August 27

8:00PM - 9:30PM

Registration deadline: 7pm, the day of the program

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email programs@mariamitchell.org

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 at 4pm on the day of the program.

COST:$30

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

Saturdays

September 7 & 21

8:00PM - 9:15PM

Friday

October 4

8:00PM - 9:15PM

Registration deadline: 6pm, the day of the program

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email programs@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.

At least one adult must sign up with children. 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. This program will be cancelled in the event of rain and refunds issued. Pre-registration is required.

COST:$20

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

Thursdays

September 12 & 19

6:30PM - 8:00PM

Registration deadline: 12pm, the day of the program

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email programs@mariamitchell.org

Open Night: Stargazing at Loines Observatory

Join our astronomers for a special Thanksgiving edition of Stargazing. Our astronomers will lead an impressive tour of Nantucket’s night sky and guide you in viewing astronomical objects through our historic 8-inch Alvan Clark refractor and our modern 24-inch research telescope. Get a chance to view the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, and even other galaxies!

This program begins promptly at the event start time, please arrive 10 minutes before the program start time. Please dress for the weather conditions at the time of the event, as this program takes place outside. This program is geared toward all ages, but children are welcome to register with an adult guardian. At least one adult must sign up with children. 

This program meets at the MMA Loines Observatory at 59 Milk Street, Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required for this special Thanksgiving edition of Open Night. This program is weather contingent and will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather (rain or thunderstorm threat). 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. Members will see their discount at checkout in cart once logged into your online account.

Contact email: programs@mariamitchell.org

COST:

Adults $22

Youth $14

Members are free!

DATES:
Special Thanksgiving Open Night

Wednesday

November 27

7 - 8pm

Adults $40

Youth $20

Pre-registration is required for this special Thanksgiving edition of Open Night.

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email programs@mariamitchell.org

A unique and extremely popular collaborative walking tour with the MMA’s Deputy Director & Curator of the Mitchell House, the Nantucket 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. Participants should meet at the Oldest House on Sunset Hill (tour will end on Main Street). Tour includes brief visits inside each building visited.  TOUR HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER FORECAST

No reservations required.

DATES

Saturday, October 1 | 10AM - Noon

$10 per Participant

NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED

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

Join the curator of the 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 wear appropriate clothes.

Space is limited and registration is required. Please call 508-228-2896 to register and for more information.  In the case of inclement weather, programs will be cancelled and participants will be notified.

Please Note: This class is to teach others so that they may 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 condoned by the cemetery and other officials. 

DATES

Saturday, June 11 |

10AM - Noon

Members: $10
Non-Members: $15

Maria Mitchell and the Daring Daughters of Nantucket Island

Join the curator of the Mitchell House 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.

Space is limited and registration is required. Please call 508-228-2896 to register and for more information.  In the case of inclement weather, programs will be cancelled and participants will be notified.

DATES 

Saturday, September 17 | 10AM - Noon 

Members: $10
Non-Members: $15

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. 

COST PER PAIR:$55

Each Additional Child - $10

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

June 24

July 15

10AM - 11:30AM

For private group inquiries: Call 508-228-2896.

Maria Mitchell and the Daring Daughters of Nantucket Island

Join the curator of the Maria Mitchell House 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 Historic Mitchell House at 1 Vestal Street. In the event of inclement weather, programs will be cancelled and participants will be notified. Pre-registration is required as space is limited.

COST: $15

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

September 12

2PM - 4PM

September 21

10AM - Noon

For private group inquiries: Call 508-228-2896.

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.

COST: $15

Members receive a 20% discount

DATES:

June 15

10AM - 12PM

For private group inquiries: Call 508-228-2896.

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 includes brief visits inside each building visited.

This collaborative program is drop-in style and meets at the Oldest House, 16 Sunset Hill Lane Nantucket MA.

COST: $10 (Cash Only)

DATES:

June 8

September 9

October 5

10AM - 12PM

For private group inquiries:

Call 508-228-2896.

Birding 101: A Two Part Exploration of the Unique Avian Life of Nantucket

What is the allure of birding? We have always looked to birds to tell us what is happening in the world around us but there are almost as many ways to enjoy birds as there are birders. Join MMA's Field Ornithologist Ginger Andrews for a two part workshop to find your own unique birding style, with tips and suggestions to find and identify Nantucket's varied avian life. 

This program convenes at the MMA Research Center parking area at 2/4 Vestal St. at 2:45 PM. This workshop is a 2 part series but you may register for individual events. The time of the field trip will be solidified during the Friday afternoon session. Children 8 and up are welcome with an adult guardian. Loaner binoculars are available for use. Wear sensible shoes and dress for the weather at the time of the program.

This program will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather and a ticket exchange issued for an alternative date. Pre-registration is recommended as programs do fill up but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability.

Part 1: Introduction to Birding

-Field Guides

-Bird Feeding

-Specimens, Sketching, and Note Taking

Part 2: Birding Field Trip

-Bird Identification

-Habitats and Homes

-binoculars and Telescope Configuration for viewing

COST: $30

DATES:

January 17

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

January 18

10:00 AM - NOON

For private group inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email email: programs@mariamitchell.org