Martha's Vineyard with Kids: The Complete Family Guide (2026)
Martha's Vineyard with kids: best beaches, Flying Horses Carousel, free VTA buses, kid-friendly restaurants, rainy day plans, and family budget tips.
Walk around the Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs on this virtual tour. Starting in the early 1800’s a group of Methodists started holding regular meetings on this site. It grew into a seasonal community of fancifully ornate summer cottages centered around a tabernacle that still operates as a meeting place and holds church services. The Cottages are home to an annual “Illumination Night” every August, an event dating back to the late 1800’s in which all of the homes are covered with japanese lanterns, and every home lights them simultaneously. The lighting is preceded by a performance from a big band in the tabernacle and is a piece of Americana straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting.
Location: Gingerbread Houses Oak Bluffs Walking Tour Martha's Vineyard , Massachusetts, USA
Continue Exploring Martha's Vineyard
- Explore Oak Bluffs – colorful gingerbread cottages, vibrant nightlife, and family fun
- Martha's Vineyard Towns – explore each of the island's unique communities
- Oak Bluffs Walking Tour
- Circuit Avenue Walking Tour
- Martha's Vineyard Travel Guide – everything you need to know before visiting
- Photo Galleries – stunning photography from across the island
- Live Webcams – watch Martha's Vineyard in real time
⛴️ Island Tip of the Day — Ferry
Seastreak from New Bedford ($49 one-way, 50 min) completely bypasses Cape Cod bridge traffic — ideal for summer weekends when the Bourne and Sagamore bridges are jammed.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general guidance only and was accurate at the time of writing. Beach conditions, hours, prices, lifeguard schedules, ferry fares, and business operations change frequently and without notice. Ocean swimming carries inherent risks including rip currents, undertow, and cold water shock. Always verify current conditions with official local sources before your visit. MV Vacation assumes no responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience resulting from the use of this information. Swim only where lifeguards are on duty, supervise children at all times near water, and follow all posted safety signs.
