Whaling Museum

Whaling Museum is at 15 Broad St. Operated by the Nantucket Historical Association, the museum is housed in an 1847 candle factory where whale oil once was refined. Nine galleries with more than 1,000 works of art, artifacts and treasures depict the history of Nantucket through comprehensive exhibitions; included are displays of ship models, whaling tools, logbooks, portraits of whaling masters, furniture, and artifacts pertaining to candle making and the decorative arts. Among the highlights are a 16-foot-long Fresnel lens from an island lighthouse, a 46-foot-long sperm whale skeleton and a large collection of scrimshaw.

A rooftop observation deck overlooking Nantucket harbor, daily educational presentations and screenings of the 51-minute documentary “Nantucket” by filmmaker Ric Burns are offered. Numerous daily programs by interpreters, childrens' activities in the Discovery Center and intimate spotlight tours compliment the visit.

Time: Allow 2 hours minimum.