Hadwen House
Explore a beautifully preserved Greek Revival home and discover the art of Nantucket lightship baskets. A historical gem on Main Street.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Hadwen House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a beautifully preserved Greek Revival home and discover the art of Nantucket lightship baskets. A historical gem on Main Street.
"Loved this place. Friendly & knowledgeable staff too."
🎟️ Get an NHA Pass
Save money by purchasing an NHA pass for access to Hadwen House and other historical sites. :admission_tickets:
⏳ Allow an Hour
Plan for about an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits and take a guided tour. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nantucket Lightship Baskets
Exhibition Hall
Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of traditional and modern Nantucket lightship baskets, a true island art form.
Greek Revival Architecture
The House
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved Greek Revival home, showcasing its nearly perfect original condition.
Hadwen House Garden
Outdoor Garden
Enjoy a tranquil stroll through the picturesque garden, a vibrant oasis offering a peaceful backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine with Whaling Museum
Garden Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Get an NHA Pass
Save money by purchasing an NHA pass for access to Hadwen House and other historical sites. :admission_tickets:
⏳ Allow an Hour
Plan for about an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits and take a guided tour. :clock:
🤝 Friendly Staff
Engage with the knowledgeable and friendly staff for insightful information about the house and exhibits. :handshake:
🌸 Garden Oasis
Don't miss the beautiful garden, open daily from sunrise to sundown.
On Nantucket currently
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Get an NHA Pass
Save money by purchasing an NHA pass for access to Hadwen House and other historical sites. :admission_tickets:
⏳ Allow an Hour
Plan for about an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits and take a guided tour. :clock:
🤝 Friendly Staff
Engage with the knowledgeable and friendly staff for insightful information about the house and exhibits. :handshake:
🌸 Garden Oasis
Don't miss the beautiful garden, open daily from sunrise to sundown.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Hadwen House for its well-preserved Greek Revival architecture and the fascinating exhibition of Nantucket lightship baskets. The knowledgeable staff and the tranquil garden are frequently mentioned as positive aspects, making it a worthwhile stop, especially when combined with other historical sites. Some feel it's best enjoyed as a quick visit or as part of a larger NHA ticket package.
"Quick stop. Good to checkout if you did the whaling museum. I wouldn’t pay to go in. Nice garden."
Katie Robb
"What a day to visit the Hadwen! We went to see if our Nantucket basket was real and we stayed for the sights! Beautiful displays and guides who were filled with information. Not only is our basket real but there was a famous person visiting while we were there! 🧸🥐 Another reason to love Nantucket!"
Danielle Buczynski
"Good for a quick look around, especially if you already bought a whaling museum ticket. Excellent basket collection with good, informative tours. Beautiful garden."
A Roberts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hadwen House is conveniently located at 96 Main Street in Nantucket. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in town or a short taxi/rideshare from other parts of the island.
Parking can be challenging on Main Street. It's recommended to explore public transportation options or be prepared for limited street parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary, but many visitors suggest that it's best value when combined with a Whaling Museum ticket or an NHA pass.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the door or as part of an NHA pass. It's advisable to check the Nantucket Historical Association website for the most current ticketing information.
Hadwen House is open seasonally. The garden is accessible from sunrise to sundown, while house exhibitions have specific operating hours. Check the NHA website for current times.
Yes, purchasing an NHA pass provides access to multiple historical sites, including Hadwen House, offering significant savings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Hadwen House, you'll find exhibitions on Nantucket's history, including a notable collection of Nantucket lightship baskets and the beautifully preserved Greek Revival architecture of the home.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. They offer in-depth information and insights from friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Most visitors find that about an hour is sufficient to explore the house and its exhibits thoroughly.
The Hadwen House Garden is open to the public from sunrise to sundown and offers a pleasant space to explore.
The exhibition features a diverse range of Nantucket lightship baskets, tracing their historical development and showcasing contemporary creations.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with staff upon arrival regarding restrictions on interior photography.
The Hadwen House Garden provides beautiful scenic photo opportunities, especially on a sunny day. The exterior architecture is also quite photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider purchasing an NHA pass if you plan to visit multiple historical sites, which can make the experience more cost-effective for families. Engaging with the friendly staff can also make the visit more interactive and informative for children.
🏛️ History Buffs
The Nantucket lightship basket collection is a highlight, showcasing a unique aspect of the island's maritime heritage and artisanal traditions. Combining a visit with the nearby Whaling Museum provides an even more comprehensive understanding of Nantucket's historical significance.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Many day-trippers find it a perfect complement to a visit to the Whaling Museum, as they are often bundled in ticketing options. Allocate about an hour to explore the house and its garden, ensuring you can still fit in other island activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Nantucket Lightship Baskets
The exhibitions at Hadwen House trace the evolution of these baskets, from their 19th-century utilitarian beginnings to the diverse traditional and experimental forms being created by island artisans today. Visitors can learn about the different weaving techniques, materials used, and the cultural significance of this enduring craft.
Seeing these intricate pieces up close offers a fascinating glimpse into Nantucket's maritime heritage and the creativity born from necessity. Many visitors are surprised by the artistry and history embedded in each basket.
Exploring the Hadwen House Garden
This garden is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, offering a chance to admire the flora and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. It's often highlighted as a pleasant surprise by visitors, providing a tranquil backdrop for reflection or a quiet moment.
+1Whether you're visiting the house or simply seeking a moment of calm, the garden is a welcoming space that enhances the overall visit to Hadwen House. It's a testament to the enduring beauty of Nantucket's landscapes.
A Glimpse into Greek Revival Elegance
The house is noted for being in nearly perfect condition, allowing visitors to experience the elegance and design principles of the era firsthand. The interior spaces often feature high ceilings, well-proportioned rooms, and decorative elements that reflect the period's aesthetic sensibilities.
Exploring Hadwen House offers a tangible connection to Nantucket's past, showcasing not only its history but also the architectural trends that shaped its built environment. It's a significant piece of the island's historical fabric.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit