Things To Do
Boston
Explore Boston (1 hour from Mattapoisett) Historic Sites & Landmarks: Freedom Trail – A 2.5-mile walk through the city’s most important historical sites. Boston Common & Public Garden – Perfect for strolling or a swan boat ride. Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market – Great for shopping, quick bites, and people-watching. Museums: Museum of Fine Arts – World-class art collections. New England Aquarium – Fun for families and ocean lovers. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum – A unique, Venetian-style palace full of art and gardens. Neighborhoods to Wander: Back Bay – Charming brownstones, boutiques, and Newbury Street shopping. North End – Boston’s Little Italy; don’t miss pastries from Mike’s or Modern. Seaport – Waterfront dining, rooftop bars, and harbor views.
Cape Cod
🐚 Cape Cod (30–60 minutes from Mattapoisett) Falmouth & Woods Hole: Relaxed beaches, bike rentals, and great seafood. The Shining Sea Bikeway is especially beautiful in the spring. Hyannis: A central hub for shopping, nightlife, and quick ferries to Nantucket. Visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum. Chatham: Lighthouse views, boutique shopping, and postcard-worthy beaches.
Martha's Vineyard
⛴️ Visiting the Islands Both Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket make for perfect day trips or weekend visits. Below is a simple guide on how to get there. (Ferry schedules vary seasonally, so check updated times closer to the wedding.) 🚢 Martha’s Vineyard Ferries Most convenient for guests (closest to Mattapoisett): Woods Hole → Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs Ferry: Steamship Authority About 45 minutes from Mattapoisett by car Offers passenger service and vehicle transport Trip: ~45 minutes Other options: Falmouth → Oak Bluffs Ferry: Island Queen (Passenger only; seasonal) New Bedford → Vineyard Haven/Oak Bluffs Ferry: SeaStreak (Passenger only; seasonal, fast ferry)
Nantucket
🚢 Nantucket Ferries Easiest routes: Hyannis → Nantucket Ferries: Steamship Authority or Hy-Line Cruises About 50 minutes drive from Mattapoisett Options include high-speed (1 hour) or traditional ferries (2+ hours) New Bedford → Nantucket Ferry: SeaStreak (Seasonal, high-speed) No need to drive over the canal—very convenient. 🧭 Tips for Islands Travel Book early if traveling with a car—vehicle spaces sell out months in advance. Passenger-only ferries rarely sell out, but advance tickets are helpful on weekends. May is pre-peak season, so crowds are lighter but some restaurants may have limited hours. Bring a light jacket—island weather can be breezy!