Nantucket Bird Walk with Ginger Andrews

Explore Nantucket’s birdy landscapes and hidden nooks with local bird guide and Inquirer and Mirror columnist, Ginger Andrews. With so many varied habitats so close together, the Island is a great place to look and listen for birds. Our location out at sea makes for a fascinating mix of migratory species and year-round residents. Dry humor—always useful in a foggy environment—natural and human history, unexpected rarities, and other stories fill out the picture.

Children 8 and up are welcome with an adult guardian. Loner binoculars available. Wear sensible shoes, dress for the weather. You never know what may turn up. This program will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather and a ticket exchange issued for an alternative date. Pre-registration is recommended as programs do fill up but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability.

DATES:

September 13- October 4

Sundays

7:45AM - 10:00AM

POP UP!

Friday, October 9

7:45AM - 10:00AM

COST: $35

Members receive a 20% discount

For inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email: ekermani@mariamitchell.org

Full Moon Nature Walk

Join Joanna Roche on a peaceful one hour walk (up to 2 miles on uneven terrain) under the light of the full Moon. Discover the legends and narratives of the past and present. Enjoy the tranquility of the quiet night sky and learn about our Moon's current themes and its important symbolism.

Our complimentary under the stars experience meets at a rotating location, you will be emailed with the walk location on the day of the program. 

Pre-registration is required as space is limited. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be cancelled and participants notified via email. This walk is designed to be interesting for adults and children ages 8 and older. Dress for the current weather conditions and bring your flashlights or headlamps! 

DATES:

Saturday, September 26 | 7:00 PM

Monday, October 26 | 7:00 PM

Tuesday, November 24 | 6:00 PM

Wednesday, December 23 | 5:00PM

COST:  $10

free for Island residents

For inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email: info@mariamitchell.org

Beach Biology Field Trip

Join MMA aquarium staff on select Saturdays throughout the summer. Learn about the fascinating biology, ecology, and geology that make Nantucket's beaches so unique. We will discover shells, bones, and egg cases, and are likely to observe sand fleas, shore birds, marine invertebrates, and more. Come start your training as a professional Nantucket beachcomber!

This program is designed to be interesting for adults and children ages 10 and older and meets at Low Beach parking lot located on Low Beach Rd. in 'Sconset- coordinates are 41.25362° N, 69.96835° W, Nantucket. All registered children must be accompanied by a registered adult to participate in this program. Pre-registration is required for program material preparation. Registration closes 3 hours before program start time.

DATES

Sundays

September 13 - 27

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

COST: $30

Members receive a 20% discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email cpetrik@mariamitchell.org

Kids' Metal Detecting with Nikoline Bohr

Join expert metal detectorist Nikoline Bohr for an exciting, hands-on adventure designed just for kids! This one-hour beachside program invites young explorers to learn the basics of metal detecting in a fun and engaging way. Participants will discover how to use a metal detector, all while searching for hidden treasures on the beautiful shores of Nantucket.

Whether your child is curious about history, loves treasure hunting, or simply enjoys outdoor activities, this program provides a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience. Come uncover the secrets buried in the sand and experience the thrill of discovery! Pre-registration is required and registration closes 24 hours prior to the program start.

DATES:

September 12, 19

Saturdays

10:00AM - 11:00AM

COST: $30

Members receive a 20% discount

For inquiries: Call 508.228.9198 or email: nbohr@mariamitchell.org

Morning Feeding at the Aquarium

Join MMA Aquarists and staff on a tour as they feed the ever-hungry creatures at the Aquarium before it opens to the public. You will learn all about the fascinating marine animals as you observe their unique feeding behaviors. This is a great way to learn about the diverse marine animals in the Nantucket Harbor and beyond.

This program is designed to be interesting for adults and children. This program meets at the Maria Mitchell Aquarium at 32 Washington St. All registered children must be accompanied by at least one registered adult to participate in this program. Pre-registration is recommended as programs do fill up but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability. Program begins promptly at start time and late arrivals may be turned away.

DATES:

September 12 - October 4

Saturdays

10:00AM - 10:45AM

Sundays

11:00AM - 11:45AM

COST: $25

Members receive a 20% discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email cpetrik@mariamitchell.org

Mini Movers

Mini Movers and Shakers invites young children and their caregivers to wiggle, dance, and explore the animal kingdom through movement, music, and hands-on discovery at the Natural Science Museum!

Led by MMA Museum staff, little explorers will journey around the world to learn about amazing animals by stomping like elephants, slithering like snakes, flapping like seabirds, and moving like their favorite critters. Each session combines interactive storytelling, music and movement activities, imaginative play, and a themed craft designed to spark curiosity and creativity. To top off the adventure, participants will meet one of the museum’s live animal ambassadors and learn more about the incredible adaptations that make each species unique.

Designed for young children and their caregivers, Mini Movers and Shakers encourages early learning through movement, sensory exploration, creativity, and play in a fun and welcoming environment. At least one adult must sign up with children. This program meets at the MMA Natural Science Museum at 7 Milk Street, Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is recommended as programs do fill up but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability.

DATES:

Sundays

September 11 - November 29

COST: $15

Chaperones: Free

Members receive a 20% discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email: ekermani@mariamitchell.org

Nature Storytime

Enjoy this program designed for the young explorer in your family! During each session, a MMA educator will read a nature or science themed book, introduce you to one of the MMA's animal friends, and will finish up with an activity related to the story. This is a recurring program, but the specific focus and materials provided will change each week.

At least one adult must sign up with children. This program is designed to be interesting for children ages 3 and older. This program meets at the MMA Natural Science Museum at 7 Milk Street, Nantucket MA.

Pre-registration is recommended as programs do fill up but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability.

DATES:

Fridays

September 11 - December 4

11:00AM - 11:45AM

COST: $15

Chaperones: Free

Members receive a 20% discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email: ekermani@mariamitchell.org

Evening Art

Experience an evening of creativity and inspiration during this special art program at the Maria Mitchell Association Natural Science Museum. Led by artist Nikoline Bohr, participants will create a personalized work of art while learning foundational painting techniques through step-by-step instruction and live demonstrations.

This program will feature subjects inspired by Nantucket’s iconic lighthouses as well as select resident animal ambassadors from the museum’s collection, offering participants a unique opportunity to explore art through both natural history and island culture. Whether you are picking up a paintbrush for the first time or already enjoy creating art, this relaxed and welcoming program encourages creativity, observation, and artistic expression at your own pace. Leave with a finished piece of art to take home and enjoy.

This program is designed to be interesting for adults. This program meets at the MMA Natural Science Museum at 7 Milk St., Nantucket, MA. Pre-registration is required and registration closes at 3 PM the day before the program. Materials are provided.

DATES:

September 17 - October 29

Thursdays

5:00PM - 7:00PM

COST:$45

Members receive 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email: nbohr@mariamitchell.org

Preserving the Monuments of Our Ancestors: How to Properly Clean Historic Gravestones

Join the curator of the Maria Mitchell House and the Prospect Hill Cemetery Association historian for a short talk about stone monuments and their conservation. The class will then move to the Prospect Hill Cemetery where participants will learn how to properly clean stone monuments. Class will be hands on so please wear appropriate clothing. 

Please note that this class is to teach others so that they can clean their family's stone monuments. One must speak with the sextant of a cemetery before doing this. One must not work on stones not belonging to their family unless it is through a special program that has been approved by the cemetery and other officials.

This program meets at the Maria Mitchell House 1 Vestal Street Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. In the event of inclement weather, programs will be cancelled and participants will be notified.

DATES:

Saturday, June 13

10:00AM - 12:00PM

COST: $15

Members receive a 20% discount, discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email jfinger@mariamitchell.org

Outdoor Art with Nikoline Bohr

Outdoor Art invites participants to slow down, observe, and connect with the natural world through close-up drawing and artistic exploration. Led by Nikoline Bohr, this outdoor art experience focuses on the intricate details of nature—textures, shapes, colors, and patterns often overlooked in everyday life. Rather than capturing sweeping landscapes, participants will study the beauty found in leaves, flowers, shells, insects, and other small natural wonders up close. Set against the lush backdrop of Nantucket, this class encourages curiosity, mindfulness, and creativity while introducing techniques in observational drawing and nature journaling. Whether you are new to art or have years of experience, this relaxed and engaging program offers a unique way to experience Nantucket through a creative lens.



This program is designed to be interesting for adults.

This program meets at the MMA Outdoor Classroom at 33 Washington St. Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required and registration closes at 3pm the day before the program. Materials are provided.

DATES:

September 13, 20, 29*

October 4, 18, 25

Sundays

2:00PM - 3:30pm

*one-off

COST:$45

Members receive 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email: nbohr@mariamitchell.org

Adult Metal Detecting 101

Join expert metal detectorist Nikoline Bohr for an exciting afternoon on the beautiful shores of Nantucket! This hands-on introductory course is designed for adults eager to explore the world of metal detecting. Participants will learn the fundamentals of operating a metal detector, from basic techniques to uncovering hidden treasures buried beneath the sand. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to refine your skills, this adventure offers a unique opportunity to connect with the thrill of discovery in a relaxed, enjoyable setting. Don’t miss out on the chance to uncover the secrets that the beach holds.

This program will go rain or shine- please wear your raincoat!

This program is designed to be interesting for adults, this program meets at 32 Washington Street, Nantucket MA and registrants should have access to their own transportation. Pre-registration is required and registration closes at 3pm the day before the program.

DATES:

September 12, 19

12:00PM - 1:00pm

COST:$40

Members receive 20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email: nbohr@mariamitchell.org

Family Sailors’ Valentines

A great time for you and your child to learn and create together! Join the curator of the Maria Mitchell House and create your own version of a sailors' valentine by decorating a small Shaker-style box or picture frame - something to be enjoyed and remembered for years to come. We provide all supplies - you bring your imagination and creativity! Adults must remain with their child for the entire duration of the program.



This paired program is designed for an adult and child ages 5 and older. This program meets at the MMA Hinchman House Natural Science Museum courtyard at 2 Vestal Street, Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required as space is limited to 8 participants. 

DATES:

2027 Dates Coming Soon

10:00AM - 11:30AM

COST PER PAIR:$55

Each Additional Child - $10

Members receive20% discount in cart

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email jfinger@mariamitchell.org

Maria Mitchell and the Daring Daughters of Nantucket Island

Join the curator of the Maria Mitchell House, Jascin Leonardo Finger, for a walking tour concerning the lives of Maria Mitchell and Nantucket's famous and infamous women, as well as the lesser known women of our island. Learn why whaling, Quakerism, and the isolation of an island afforded these women opportunities that women elsewhere in America at the time were not afforded.

This program meets at the Maria Mitchell House 1 Vestal Street Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. In the event of inclement weather, programs will be cancelled and participants will be notified.

DATES:

Saturday, May 2

Saturday, June 20

Friday, September 4 | 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Saturday, September 19 | 10:00AM - 12:00PM

COST: $15

Members receive a 20% discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email jfinger@mariamitchell.org

Four Centuries Domestic Architecture Tour

Join the curator of the Maria Mitchell House, Jascin Leonardo Finger, for a walking tour concerning the lives of Maria Mitchell and Nantucket's famous and infamous women, as well as the lesser known women of our island. Learn why whaling, Quakerism, and the isolation of an island afforded these women opportunities that women elsewhere in America at the time were not afforded.

This program meets at the Maria Mitchell House 1 Vestal Street Nantucket MA. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. In the event of inclement weather, programs will be cancelled and participants will be notified.

DATES:

Saturday, May 2

Saturday, June 20

Saturday, September 5 | 10:00AM - 12:00PM

Saturday, October 3 | 10:00AM - 12:00PM

COST: $15

Members receive a 20% discount

For private group inquiries:

Call 508.228.9198 or email jfinger@mariamitchell.org