Nantucket is a treasure trove of historic landmarks and stories that stretch back centuries. Its well-preserved architecture, iconic lighthouses, and old fishing villages make it a prime destination for anyone interested in America’s maritime past. Because the island’s history is so vividly alive in its streets and sights, guided history tours are the perfect way to bring that story to life. Whether you want a relaxed bus ride through scenic landscapes or a more detailed narrated experience, Nantucket offers options tailored to different interests and schedules. Plus, with guides who genuinely love sharing their knowledge, each tour becomes a memorable peek into the island’s unique character.
If you’re planning a visit, consider the type of experience you prefer—whether it’s a quick overview or a deeper dive into Nantucket’s history. To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the best historical tours on Nantucket, comparing what makes each one special. From scenic Landmarks bus tours to detailed narrations about the island’s founding and its famous lighthouses, these tours are sure to enrich your trip.
Quick Overview
Our list includes two top-notch historical tours: the Nantucket: Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour offers a relaxed, 1.5-hour ride with stops at key sites like Sankaty Lighthouse and Siasconset. Meanwhile, the Historical Tour of Nantucket delivers a more traditional narrated experience, covering Old Mill, the Quaker burial ground, and the Sankaty Head Lighthouse. Both tours are highly rated and provide different ways to soak in Nantucket’s rich past.
1. Nantucket: Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour
At number one, this 1.5-hour bus tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick and scenic overview of Nantucket’s highlights. The tour includes stops at notable sites such as the Sankaty Lighthouse, a classic structure built in 1850 that still guides ships today. It also ventures into Siasconset, a fishing village dating back to the 17th century, where rose-covered cottages and old-world charm await. The tour makes it easy to see the island’s different facets—from quaint cottages to sweeping sea views—without fuss.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on feeling history come alive through picturesque landmarks and friendly guiding. The guide is known for their warmth and knowledge, making stops engaging and informative. Many reviews highlight the guide’s ability to answer questions and bring local stories to life. The price of $53 per person offers good value for a sightseeing experience that’s both relaxing and enriching. Since it’s a bus tour, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer minimal walking but still want a comprehensive snapshot of Nantucket’s historic sites.
Bottom Line: This tour strikes a nice balance of comfort, scenery, and insight—great for those wanting an overview with plenty of photo opportunities.
2. Historical Tour of Nantucket
Coming in at number two is the Historical Tour of Nantucket, which offers a narrated journey through the island’s past in about 90 minutes. This tour is delivered by the oldest tour company on Nantucket, with roots dating back to the days of horse and buggy. It covers a variety of significant sites, including the Old Mill, believed to be the oldest operating windmill in the U.S., and the quarry of Nantucket, where most of the island’s early stone work was done. The tour also features the Sankaty Head Lighthouse, built in 1850, and takes you past the Quaker burial ground, a poignant reminder of the island’s founding.
What makes this tour distinctive is its storytelling style and focus on historic accuracy. The guide, who is praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, shares stories about the founding families like Macy and Folger, the whaling industry, and conservation efforts. Reviews mention how the guide’s humor and local insights keep the tour lively and memorable. The price is slightly higher at $57, but the detailed narration and historical context justify the cost for those eager to understand Nantucket’s early days.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a more storytelling-focused, in-depth view of Nantucket’s history—well-suited for travelers who want to connect stories to the sights.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two tours, consider your timeline, interest level, and preferred style of exploration. If you’re looking for a short, scenic overview and want to see the main landmarks with minimal walking, the Nantucket: Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour is a great choice. On the other hand, if you’re a history enthusiast who enjoys detailed stories and a more comprehensive narration, the Historical Tour of Nantucket will satisfy your curiosity.
Budget-wise, both tours are fairly comparable, but the latter offers a richer storytelling experience that might appeal to those eager to delve deeper. Think about how much time you want to dedicate—if you have a tight schedule, the 1.5-hour bus tour is perfect. If you want a more in-depth look at the island’s past, the 90-minute narrated tour is worth the extra few dollars.
Booking early is recommended, especially in the busy summer months, to secure a spot on your preferred tour. Consider also pairing a tour with other activities like scenic walks or visits to local museums for a well-rounded trip.
Final Thoughts
Both of these Nantucket historical tours offer unique ways to experience the island’s past, whether you prefer a quick, scenic bus ride or a more detailed narrated journey. The Nantucket: Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed overview with plenty of photo stops, while the Historical Tour of Nantucket suits those eager for storytelling and historical context.
For a compact, scenic introduction, the first tour is hard to beat. If your interest runs deeper and you love learning through stories, the second tour provides a richer experience. No matter which you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these engaging ways to explore Nantucket’s fascinating past.