Educational Trips and Tours for Kids on Martha’s Vineyard
Whether you’re a Martha’s Vineyard local or just visiting for a weekend, there are plenty of educational and engaging activities to enjoy with your children. The island’s unique charm offers experiences that combine fun and learning, ensuring you create unforgettable memories no matter your child’s age. From nature preserves to museums, farms, and historic tours, here are some of the best educational activities for kids on Martha’s Vineyard.
The Farm Institute
The Farm Institute (pictured above), part of the Trustees of Reservations, is a working farm dedicated to agricultural education and connecting families to the island’s agricultural heritage. Their signature fall program, “Barnyard Buddies,” invites families to drop in on Saturday mornings for a variety of hands-on activities. Kids can collect eggs, participate in bunny circles, feed goats, and create garden crafts, making it an exciting and interactive way to learn about farm life. For older children, The Farm Institute offers summer camps where they can dive deeper into topics such as sustainable farming, nutritional awareness, livestock care, and land preservation. Seasonal workshops and family-friendly events always involve something engaging, making it an enriching destination for kids and adults alike.
Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary
Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary offers an array of programs that connect kids to nature, fostering curiosity and a deep appreciation for the environment. Felix Neck hosts seasonal nature camps, guided educational hikes, and interactive workshops that immerse children in the island's diverse ecosystems. These programs are designed to inspire a lifelong love for nature while teaching valuable lessons about conservation and ecology. It’s a hands-on experience that fosters curiosity, encourages environmental awareness, and sparks interest in wildlife conservation. By directly engaging with the sanctuary’s inhabitants and ecosystems, children gain a deeper understanding of the natural world and their role in protecting it. Felix Neck is also an excellent spot for outdoor exploration, with trails that wind through serene landscapes.
Mytoi Japanese Garden
Located on Chappaquiddick Island, Mytoi Japanese Garden is a peaceful haven for families. Kids can explore the garden’s meandering paths, admire fish in the ponds, and observe local wildlife. Mytoi occasionally hosts seasonal events like playgroups and nature photography lessons, making it an idyllic spot for relaxation and quiet learning.
Island Alpaca Farm
Island Alpaca Farm offers a delightful mix of education and fun for visitors of all ages. Home to a vibrant herd of alpacas, ranging from newborns to full-grown adults, the farm provides numerous opportunities for kids to learn about these gentle creatures. Their "Alpaca Walk and Talk" program, tailored for older kids aged 14 and up, allows participants to stroll alongside an alpaca while gaining insights from experienced handlers about the animals’ habits, care, and unique traits. For younger children, simply observing the alpacas, learning about their life cycle, and exploring the scenic farm environment is a memorable experience. Seasonal events and workshops often provide additional interactive opportunities, such as alpaca-themed crafts and feeding sessions. A visit to the farm wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the gift shop, where you can browse an array of soft and sustainable alpaca wool products, blending education with a touch of island charm.
MV Pirates Adventure
For a seasonal treat, hop aboard the MV Pirates ship during spring and summer and embark on a high-energy, interactive journey designed for kids aged 3-10. This one-of-a-kind pirate-themed adventure begins with pirate face painting and dressing up, setting the stage for the ultimate seafaring escapade. Kids are trained to become official crew members through engaging activities, including learning pirate lingo and participating in exciting role-playing scenarios. The adventure continues with a thrilling treasure hunt, firing real water cannons at "attacking pirates," and pulling up sunken treasure. The experience concludes with a grand victory celebration featuring music and dancing. Beyond the fun, MV Pirates Adventure encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and imaginative play, making it an unforgettable highlight of any child’s visit to Martha’s Vineyard.
Martha's Vineyard Museum
The Martha’s Vineyard Museum in Vineyard Haven offers an enriching experience for children and families, blending fun and education in a dynamic setting. Kids can step back in time by trying out games from the 18th and 19th centuries, sparking their imagination and offering a glimpse into the past. The museum’s iconic lighthouse provides a hands-on opportunity to learn about maritime history while enjoying breathtaking views of the island. Workshops such as model boat building, "ditty bag" sewing, and creative arts activities encourage kids to engage with history in a tactile and memorable way. Seasonal programs like “Discovery Days” are designed to inspire curiosity through themed activities and storytelling sessions. Additionally, exhibits on whaling, Wampanoag culture, and the island’s maritime heritage provide an educational backdrop that highlights the island’s rich history. Whether reading about history in a new and exciting way, participating in interactive exhibits, or joining family-friendly events, the Martha’s Vineyard Museum offers a comprehensive educational experience tailored to children’s inquisitive minds.
Tour the Campgrounds
Step back in time with a visit to the historic Campground in Oak Bluffs. This area is home to the iconic Gingerbread Cottages, a collection of over 300 vibrantly painted Victorian-era homes. Originally established in the 1830s as a religious retreat for Methodist camp meetings, the area transformed over time as tents gave way to the whimsical cottages we see today. The Gingerbread Cottages are celebrated for their ornate trim, bright colors, and fairy-tale charm, making them a fascinating sight for children and adults alike. While guided tours are available during the summer, a self-guided walk during the off-season allows families to explore the quaint streets, read historical plaques, and imagine life on the island over 160 years ago. The nearby iron Tabernacle, a centerpiece of the Campground, adds to the historical experience with its grand architecture and rich legacy of hosting community events.
Aquinnah Cultural Center
Immerse your family in the history and culture of the Wampanoag people at the Aquinnah Cultural Center. A self-guided tour along Wampanoag Way highlights key historical sites and offers a deeper understanding of the island’s Indigenous heritage. For a unique adventure, consider biking to the sites via the Menemsha bike ferry.
Plan Your Educational Adventure
Martha’s Vineyard offers a wealth of activities that combine fun, learning, and the island’s unique character. Whether you’re exploring wildlife at Felix Neck, engaging in hands-on farm experiences, or diving into local history at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, these educational outings are sure to inspire and delight kids of all ages. Start planning your next adventure and discover the enriching side of Martha’s Vineyard!
