Island Adventures: Top Kid-Friendly Destinations on Nantucket

On Nantucket, there are a variety of fun places to go and things to do with your children. Through word of mouth and firsthand experience, we’ve gathered the top five kid friendly (and favored) destinations!  in no particular order

1. Discovery Playground (“The Green Playground”)

   1. Discovery Playground at Hinsdale Park, off of Old South Road on Nantucket is a must-visit destination for families seeking a fun, educational, and inclusive outdoor experience. Designed with children of all abilities in mind, this STEAM-based playground features accessible equipment such as a 66-foot zip line, sensory walls, musical instruments, and climbing structures. The "Poured-in-Place" ground surface ensures smooth mobility for wheelchairs and strollers. Surrounded by a tranquil woodland setting, the playground offers shaded picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for families to relax and explore together. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, Discovery Playground invites children to learn through play in a safe and welcoming environment.

   2. P.S. Insiders tip: If you want to explore some hidden treasures, don’t forget to follow the trails to both the labyrinth and the farm animals! 

2. Childrens Beach 

   1. Children’s Beach Playground on Nantucket is a family-friendly haven that combines seaside charm with engaging play. Situated just steps from the harbor, this ADA-accessible playground features a variety of equipment suitable for children of all ages, including swings, slides, and sensory play elements like a tactile map of the United States. Adjacent to the playground, the GypSea Café offers a selection of kid-friendly meals and treats, including the island's only soft-serve ice cream. The park also hosts seasonal activities such as live music and puppet shows, providing entertainment for the whole family. With its combination of play, food, and scenic views, Children's Beach Playground is a must-visit destination for families in Nantucket.

3. Codfish Park (Sconset playground)

   1. Codfish Park Playground in Sconset is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and imaginative play for families. Nestled within the historic Codfish Park, this charming playground features nautical-themed wooden structures, including a mini Sankaty Lighthouse and a boat, all thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the coastal surroundings. The park's ADA-accessible design ensures that children of all abilities can enjoy the space, with features like rubberized pathways and a wheelchair-accessible picnic table. Just a short stroll from Sconset Beach, families can easily transition from playtime to seaside relaxation. And grab something to eat for the family at Sconset Market or Claudettes! Whether you're a local or visiting, Codfish Park Playground offers a serene and engaging environment for children to explore and create lasting memories.

4. Jetties Beach

   1. Jetties Beach on Nantucket is a family favorite, offering a perfect blend of fun, convenience, and natural beauty. With its calm, shallow waters and expansive sandbars at low tide, it's ideal for young children to splash, wade, and build sandcastles safely. The beach features a playground with slides and swings, restrooms, changing rooms, and island favorite restaurant, The Sandbar, making it easy for families to spend the whole day. Accessible via a 380-foot boardwalk, Jetties Beach also offers volleyball courts, tennis courts, and opportunities for kayaking and sailing lessons. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or engage in beachside activities, Jetties Beach provides a welcoming environment for families to create lasting memories.

5. Maria Mitchell Aquarium 

   1. The Maria Mitchell Aquarium on Nantucket is a captivating destination for families seeking an engaging and educational experience. Located at 32 Washington Street, this charming facility offers visitors the opportunity to explore local marine life through 20 saltwater tanks and interactive touch tanks featuring species such as crabs, flounder, and moon snails . Children can participate in the popular "Feeding Frenzy" program, where they observe and learn about the feeding behaviors of various sea creatures in a hands-on setting . Additionally, the aquarium provides educational programs like "Ravenous Reptiles," allowing kids to interact with native and non-native species, including turtles, frogs, and snakes . With its engaging exhibits and programs, the Maria Mitchell Aquarium offers a memorable experience for families interested in marine biology and the natural world