Old North Wharf
A picturesque street lined with charming cottages and vibrant summer blooms, offering a quintessential Nantucket coastal experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Old North Wharf
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque street lined with charming cottages and vibrant summer blooms, offering a quintessential Nantucket coastal experience.
"Old North Wharf is one of the most beautiful streets I’ve ever seen, especially when roses and hydrangeas are in full bloom."
📸 Capture the Blooms
Visit when roses and hydrangeas are in full bloom for the most picturesque shots.
🚶♀️ Stroll at Your Own Pace
Take your time exploring the charming cottages and waterfront. It's about the experience!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Wharf Cottages
Old North Wharf
Charming, colorful cottages line the wharf, offering a glimpse into Nantucket's past. Perfect for photos!
Blooming Roses & Hydrangeas
Old North Wharf
In season, vibrant roses and hydrangeas create a stunning floral backdrop. A true New England summer dream.
Picturesque Waterfront Stroll
Old North Wharf
Wander along the wharf, enjoying the sea breeze and scenic views of the harbor. Ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm, Avoid the Crowds
Nantucket's Coastal Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Blooms
Visit when roses and hydrangeas are in full bloom for the most picturesque shots. 
🚶♀️ Stroll at Your Own Pace
Take your time exploring the charming cottages and waterfront. It's about the experience!
📍 Find Unique Shops
Discover pop-up shops and boutiques along the wharf for local finds.
☀️ Enjoy the Sea Breeze
Embrace the coastal atmosphere and enjoy the refreshing sea air.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Blooms
Visit when roses and hydrangeas are in full bloom for the most picturesque shots.
🚶♀️ Stroll at Your Own Pace
Take your time exploring the charming cottages and waterfront. It's about the experience!
📍 Find Unique Shops
Discover pop-up shops and boutiques along the wharf for local finds.
☀️ Enjoy the Sea Breeze
Embrace the coastal atmosphere and enjoy the refreshing sea air.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the picturesque beauty of Old North Wharf, particularly its charming cottages and vibrant summer blooms. It's frequently described as a "secret spot" offering a serene and photogenic experience. Some find parking challenging during peak season, and the charm is most pronounced when flowers are in bloom.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old North Wharf is located in Nantucket, Massachusetts. If you're arriving by ferry, it's a short walk or taxi ride from the ferry terminal. Parking can be limited, so consider walking or biking if staying nearby.
While Nantucket has a bus system, Old North Wharf is best explored on foot once you are in the downtown area. The wharf itself is a pedestrian-friendly zone.
The most enjoyable way to experience Old North Wharf is by walking. This allows you to fully appreciate the historic cottages and waterfront views at your own pace.
Old North Wharf is situated in a vibrant area of Nantucket, close to shops, restaurants, and other historic sites. You can easily combine a visit with exploring the rest of the island's charm.
Driving directly to Old North Wharf is possible, but parking is often scarce, especially during peak season. It's recommended to find parking in the surrounding areas and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Old North Wharf is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can stroll along the wharf and admire the scenery freely. +1
Old North Wharf is always accessible as it's an outdoor public space. However, individual shops or businesses located on the wharf will have their own operating hours.
There is no admission fee to walk along Old North Wharf. It's a free and open public space for everyone to enjoy. +1
For the best photography, aim for early mornings or late afternoons to capture the golden hour light and avoid the midday sun. The blooming flowers in summer also make for stunning shots.
As a public wharf, general public access is permitted. However, be mindful of private residences and businesses, and always respect posted signs.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spots are the charming, colorful cottages and the vibrant roses and hydrangeas that bloom in summer. Capturing the waterfront views is also a must.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most beautiful light for photography, creating a warm, golden glow. This also helps avoid harsh shadows and crowds.
Generally, casual photography is welcomed. For professional photoshoots, it's always a good idea to check with local authorities or property owners if you plan extensive setups.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the charm of Old North Wharf. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can further enhance the detail and quality of your shots.
Try framing shots with the flowers in the foreground and cottages in the background, or capture the reflections of the wharf in the water during calm periods.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While there aren't specific playgrounds directly on the wharf, the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for family fun. Consider packing a small picnic to enjoy nearby, or let the kids explore the shops for a small souvenir. The overall atmosphere is safe and welcoming, making it an ideal, low-key activity for families wanting to experience Nantucket's charm without overwhelming them.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
+1Look for unique compositions by framing shots with flowers in the foreground, capturing reflections in the water, or focusing on the architectural details of the cottages. The wharf itself offers a linear perspective that can be very effective. Don't forget to explore the small pop-up shops for potential interesting foreground elements or to capture the local artisan vibe.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Old North Wharf
+1Visitors often describe Old North Wharf as a "secret spot" or "hidden gem" for its serene beauty, especially when compared to busier tourist hubs. The atmosphere is relaxed, inviting leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation. The gentle sea breeze and the sounds of the harbor add to the tranquil ambiance. It’s the ideal location for those seeking a peaceful escape and a chance to capture stunning, memorable photographs.
Beyond its visual appeal, Old North Wharf also hosts seasonal pop-up shops, offering unique gifts and local crafts. This adds another layer of discovery for visitors, allowing them to find special souvenirs. Whether you're admiring the architecture, photographing the flowers, or browsing the shops, Old North Wharf offers a delightful and authentic Nantucket experience.
Photography Tips for Old North Wharf
When composing your shots, focus on the vibrant floral displays that adorn the wharf during the summer. The combination of blooming roses and hydrangeas against the backdrop of the historic cottages creates a truly iconic Nantucket image. Experiment with different angles – try low-angle shots to emphasize the flowers or eye-level shots to capture the architectural details of the cottages. Don't forget to include the waterfront views and any boats docked at the wharf for a complete coastal perspective.
For those looking to capture unique perspectives, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the entire streetscape or a telephoto lens to isolate specific architectural details or distant harbor views. Even a good smartphone camera can produce stunning results here, especially with attention to composition and lighting. Remember to be respectful of private property and any residents or businesses operating on the wharf.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit