When visiting Martha’s Vineyard, one of the best places to visit is the town of Edgartown. Not only is it a popular tourist destination, but it is also the county seat of Dukes County. You can check out the Old Whaling Church, Edgartown Meat and Fish, Island Alpaca Company, and Morning Glory Farm.
Edgartown Meat and Fish
In the heart of Edgartown, the Meat and Fish Market is an excellent place to find prime meat and fresh seafood. The store also features a coffee shop and deli. Visitors can find a variety of fresh, prepared foods, including steak tips, sushi, and fresh vegetables. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they sell everything from groceries to specialty burgers. It’s also the only place on the Island where you can get a Starbucks drink.
On Tuesday, the Edgartown town planning board approved two business projects. One will be a meat and fish market in Post Office Square. The other will be a salon, Wave Lengths, which will be located in a new building. Ultimately, the town will decide whether the project should be approved as a DRI.
Another place to go in Edgartown is Morning Glory Farm, which has been in business since 1975. The family-run farm also grows fresh produce and bakery items. The market is open from April through the winter holidays, and its farmstand offers a daily menu of baked goods and grab-and-go food. It’s a great spot for a quick lunch or a snack on the go.
The lighthouse in Edgartown is another interesting place to visit in the town. The lighthouse was relocated from Ipswich, MA in 1939 and has been shining into the harbor since that time. Its keeper is also available to answer questions about the lighthouse. This is a great way to learn more about the island’s history.
While visiting the town, take a walk along the waterfront. You’ll pass by a historic church. The Old Whaling Church is another historic attraction. Built in 1843, it was originally a Methodist church for whaling captains. This structure has a Gothic Revival clock tower, and its curved ceiling and massive timbers are adorned with whale oil lamps. It’s part of a walking tour through Edgartown.
Old Whaling Church
Old Whaling Church, a landmark in the heart of Edgartown, is a beautiful 1843 building with a Gothic Revival clock tower. The church’s interior features curved ceilings, massive timbers and original whale oil lamps. It is a historic site and part of a walking tour through the town.
The church’s acoustics are excellent and make it an ideal venue for weddings, concerts, lectures, and shows. It also features a Steinway grand piano and a restored pipe organ. The Baylies Room is also available for meetings and wedding receptions. The church has seating for up to 470 people. It can seat 125 theater style and 50 for table service. It is handicap accessible and has a full kitchen.
The church also hosts a performance every Sunday at a 10am. It is located just a block from the Edgartown VTA stop. A capella group called the Vineyard Sound performs at this venue. You should check the church’s calendar for details about these events.
The town’s historic district evokes the earliest English settlers and a wealthy whaling industry. The historic Sheriff’s Meadow Sanctuary, which was once the residence of an 18th century sheriff, offers a short walking trail where you can see rare plants and animals and enjoy scenic views of the Nantucket Sound. There is also a ten-acre estate where self-declared “country editor” Henry Beetle Hough lived in 1850.
The restoration process for the Old Whaling Church is in progress. Initially, it was a simple paint and trim job but a deeper look at the building resulted in a more comprehensive restoration. The church’s clock tower and four spires were rebuilt and restored. The clock’s clock faces were also re-finished.
The Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse is one of five lighthouses on the island and is managed by the Edgartown Historical Society. Built in 1828, the lighthouse is situated on a scenic beach and is open to the public seasonally. It includes a visitor center, reading rooms, and a locally-sourced gift shop. Visitors can also enjoy the Living Landmarks exhibition which outlines the history of the island.
Old Whaling Church, and Edgartown Lighthouse are two great places to visit while in town. You can also check out Chappaquiddick Island, a barrier island east of town. This island is also home to the Dike Bridge, which was driven off by President Ted Kennedy in 1969. The bridge has since been replaced by a wider footbridge. The island is also home to a barrier beach and the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge.
