The Martha's Vineyard Museum and Historical Society is devoted to the history and culture of this small Massachusetts island. Visitors to this museum can trace back their ancestry through the Historical Society's extensive genealogical services. There are special exhibits, classes, seminars, workshops, movies and other intellectually stimulating events throughout the year.

The Old Whaling Church, named as such because it was built by whaling captains in 1843, is the perfect location for a vineyard wedding. With spectacular views and Greek revival architecture, the Old Whaling Church is a sight to be seen. This old Edgartown gem can accommodate up to 500 guests in the main church and 150 guests in the lower level Frederick Baylies Room.

Six miles of hiking trails meander through this 350-acre nature preserve. The well-marked trails lead visitors through open fields, woods, marshlands and beaches. Tree swallows, wood ducks, barn owls and osprey as well as other wildlife can be seen on the tour. Special programs are held throughout the year, including Sea Ducks at Squibnocket in Mar 30, 1p-3p, and a May plant sale; call for details. Park admission is USD4 for adults, USD3 for seniors and children under 13.

Experience three centuries of island life in this unique museum. The house was built in 1672 and is considered to be the oldest dwelling on Martha's Vineyard. With its wide floorboards built low to the ground and central chimney, it is a perfect example of classic full-Cape architecture. It was moved to its present location and restored in 1977. Several walls have been left open to demonstrate early colonial building techniques. Five rooms are furnished in the evolving styles of home decor; from the basic necessities of the first settlers to the more opulent Federal look from the 19th century. Call ahead for varying days of operation.

A perfect spot on a rainy day, the library boasts an extensive collection of books, reference materials, compact discs and audio and videotapes. You can also get access to the Internet, use a personal computer, or dig into the island's fascinating history, a library specialty. There is a children's room and a play area for toddlers. Residents of Massachusetts get free library cards, all others are asked to pay a nominal fee.

Edgartown was founded in 1642, and was the first colonial settlement on the island. By the mid 1800s the town was ranked per capita as one of the wealthiest communities in the country. During that time, whaling and merchant captains built the beautiful Greek Revival homes that can still be found all over town. Edgartown continues to maintain its elegance with many luxurious inns, shops and restaurants. It is also a beautiful island town with several beaches and wildlife preserves nearby.

One of the many lighthouses on Martha's Vineyard, the Edgartown grounds, managed by the Martha's Vineyard Historical Society, are open to the public. The view from the grounds is breathtaking. The lighthouse, built in 1875 and refurbished in 1985, is an example of Cape Cod style, with three rooms on the first floor and two on the second. It is 45 feet high, made of cast iron and continues to operate as a navigational aid. The walkway leading to the lighthouse is called the "bridge of sighs" because long ago, when men would leave on sailing trips, their girlfriends would be crying and sighing as they crossed.

Located to the west of Tisbury town in the Vineyard Haven; the Vineyard Haven Harbor is a site where thousands of tourists flock every year to witness the grand events of The Vineyard Cup Race & Seafaring Festival Weekend. Though not very safe for swimming but a prime spot for fun activities like sailing, windsurfing and a lot more, the Vineyard Haven Harbor is a must-visit  for those visiting Martha's Vineyard.

The original lighthouse was constructed at this location in 1817, but a new tower and dwelling were built in the late 1800s. The light is located in historic Tisbury, at the west entrance of the Vineyard Haven Harbor. Unfortunately, the grounds are privately owned and are not open to the public. However, the tower and light may be seen from the road. The lantern's red panel, when flashing red, serves as a warning that a boat is headed for danger.

This state park in Vineyard Haven is truly a natural wonder. The park consists of more than 5,000 acres and is located in the center of the island. It was created in 1908 as a "Heath Hen Reserve." Unfortunately, the attempt to save the bird failed; the Heath Hen has been extinct since 1932. Today, the park is used for recreational purposes such as hiking, cross country skiing, cycling, horseback riding and more. There are picnic areas, rest rooms and showers available. A large environmental restoration project is underway in an attempt to revive the native grassland ecosystem.