Explore the Historic Old Gaol of Nantucket
Unearth the captivating history of Nantucket at the Old Gaol, a unique historical landmark that narrates the island's rich past.
Discover Nantucket's rich history at the Old Gaol, a captivating historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the past. This former jail is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, showcasing the island's intriguing stories and architectural charm.
A brief summary to Old Gaol
- 15R Vestal St, Nantucket, Massachusetts, 02554, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busy.
- Check the tour schedule ahead of time to ensure you catch a guided tour.
- Combine your visit to the Old Gaol with a stroll through the nearby historic district for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are starting from the Nantucket Town Center (Main Street), head southeast on Main Street towards Federal Street. Continue on Main Street for about 0.3 miles. Turn left onto Broad Street and walk for about 0.2 miles until you reach the intersection with Vestal Street. Turn right onto Vestal Street. After walking for about 0.1 miles, you will find Old Gaol at 15R Vestal St, which will be on your right. The total walking distance is approximately 0.6 miles.
-
Bicycle
Rent a bicycle in Nantucket Town. From the rental shop, head southeast on Main Street towards Federal Street. Continue straight onto Broad Street for about 0.2 miles. Turn right onto Vestal Street and ride for about 0.1 miles. Old Gaol will be on your right side at 15R Vestal St. The total distance is about 0.6 miles, which is a quick and enjoyable bike ride.
-
Public Transport (Nantucket Shuttle)
Look for the Nantucket Shuttle that has stops around town. Board the shuttle at a stop near the Town Center and take it towards the 'Vestal Street' route. After approximately a 10-minute ride, disembark at the Vestal Street stop. From there, walk about 0.1 miles down Vestal Street, and you will arrive at Old Gaol at 15R Vestal St, which will be on your right.
Discover more about Old Gaol
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fire Hose Cart House
0.2 km
Explore Nantucket's rich maritime history at the Fire Hose Cart House, a charming museum showcasing unique firefighting artifacts.
29 India House
0.5 km
Experience cozy charm and warm hospitality at 29 India House, the perfect bed & breakfast for your Nantucket adventure.
Loines Observatory
0.5 km
Experience the wonders of the cosmos at Loines Observatory in Nantucket—an enchanting destination for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts.
Carriage House
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Nantucket at Carriage House, a cozy bed & breakfast offering personalized service and easy access to the island's beauty.
Ships Inn
0.5 km
Experience the charm of Nantucket at Ships Inn, a cozy bed & breakfast offering comfort, warmth, and a perfect location for your island adventure.
Ara's Tours
0.6 km
Unveil the hidden treasures of Nantucket with personalized guided tours from Ara's Tours, immersing yourself in the island's rich history and stunning landscapes.
The Mariner House
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Nantucket while staying at The Mariner House, a cozy apartment complex blending modern comforts with coastal beauty.
Freedman's of Nantucket
0.6 km
Explore Freedman's of Nantucket for unique home decor, jewelry, and timepieces that embody the island's charm and craftsmanship.
Nantucket Preservation Trust
0.6 km
Explore the rich history and culture of Nantucket at the Nantucket Preservation Trust, where heritage meets community in a charming island setting.
Sister Ship
0.6 km
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean at Sister Ship, Nantucket's premier dining destination for exquisite cuisine and a delightful atmosphere.
Nantucket Looms
0.6 km
Discover the essence of Nantucket at Nantucket Looms, where artisanal craftsmanship meets exquisite design in a charming home goods haven.
Jared Coffin House
0.7 km
Discover the historic Jared Coffin House, a charming hotel in Nantucket offering modern comforts amidst classic elegance and a prime location for exploring the island.
Congregation Shirat HaYam
0.7 km
Explore Congregation Shirat HaYam, a serene synagogue in Nantucket, showcasing the island’s rich Jewish heritage and community spirit.
Nantucket Bookworks
0.7 km
Explore Nantucket Bookworks, a beloved bookstore and gift shop offering a unique selection of books, local literature, and artisanal gifts in a cozy setting.
The Hub of Nantucket
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and indulge in local flavors at The Hub of Nantucket, a charming café and gift shop in the heart of the island.
Unmissable attractions to see
Historic Mitchell House
0.2 km
Discover the Historic Mitchell House in Nantucket, a museum dedicated to Maria Mitchell, America's first female astronomer, and her groundbreaking contributions.
Maria Mitchell Hinchman House Natural Science Museum
0.2 km
Discover the natural beauty and scientific wonders of Nantucket at Maria Mitchell Hinchman House Natural Science Museum, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Greater Light
0.2 km
Explore the enchanting Greater Light museum in Nantucket, where art meets history in a charming New England setting.
Hadwen House
0.3 km
Explore the Hadwen House, a historical landmark in Nantucket that showcases the island's maritime history and architectural beauty.
Quaker Meeting House
0.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Nantucket at the Quaker Meeting House, a peaceful tourist attraction and museum.
The Old Mill
0.6 km
Discover the charm of The Old Mill in Nantucket, a historic landmark that showcases the island's rich maritime heritage amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Capt. George Pollard House
0.6 km
Discover the Capt. George Pollard House, a historical landmark that narrates Nantucket's whaling past and the adventures of its legendary captain.
Nantucket Downtown Historic District
0.7 km
Discover Nantucket Downtown Historic District, a perfect blend of history, culture, and vibrant local life in Massachusetts.
Nantucket Atheneum
0.7 km
Discover the Nantucket Atheneum, a historic library that enriches your visit with literature, art, and cultural events on this charming island.
Gardiner's Corner City Sign
0.8 km
Explore the iconic Gardiner's Corner City Sign in Nantucket, a charming symbol of history and culture perfect for capturing memorable moments.
Jethro Coffin House
0.8 km
Explore the Jethro Coffin House, the oldest house in Nantucket, and delve into the island's rich colonial history and maritime heritage.
Museum of African American History
0.8 km
Immerse yourself in the rich history of African American culture at the Museum of African American History in Nantucket.
Whaling Museum
0.8 km
Discover Nantucket's maritime heritage at the Whaling Museum, a captivating journey through the island's whaling history and culture.
Nantucket Whaling Museum
0.8 km
Explore Nantucket's maritime heritage at the Whaling Museum, where history, culture, and stunning exhibits await every visitor.
Maria Mitchell Aquarium
0.9 km
Explore the vibrant marine life at Maria Mitchell Aquarium in Nantucket, a captivating destination for education and conservation enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Black-Eyed Susan's
0.6 km
Experience Nantucket’s culinary charm at Black-Eyed Susan’s with fresh New American dishes in a cozy setting.
Nantucket Tap Room
0.7 km
Experience delightful American cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Nantucket Tap Room - where every meal is an adventure in flavor.
The Proprietors Bar & Table
0.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Proprietors Bar & Table in Nantucket - where local flavors meet vibrant atmosphere.
Le Languedoc Bistro
0.7 km
Savor exquisite French cuisine at Le Languedoc Bistro on Nantucket Island—where every meal is an unforgettable culinary journey.
Company of the Cauldron
0.7 km
Discover exceptional American cuisine at Company of the Cauldron in Nantucket – where every dish tells a story.
The Pearl
0.7 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Asia at The Pearl in Nantucket - where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Dune
0.7 km
Discover Dune in Nantucket – an exquisite American restaurant offering seasonal dishes crafted from fresh local ingredients.
The Boarding House
0.7 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at The Boarding House in Nantucket - where vibrant flavors meet charming ambiance.
Brotherhood of Thieves
0.7 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Brotherhood of Thieves in Nantucket—where every meal is a delightful adventure!
or, The Whale
0.7 km
Discover innovative New England cuisine at 'or, The Whale', where seasonal ingredients meet culinary creativity in Nantucket.
Ventuno Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Ventuno Restaurant in Nantucket—where authentic flavors meet coastal charm.
American Seasons
0.7 km
Discover the essence of Nantucket dining at American Seasons—where seasonal ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Via Mare
0.7 km
Experience authentic Venetian cuisine at Via Mare in Nantucket - where every small plate tells a story of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
Queequeg's
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Queequeg's in Nantucket - where every dish tells a story.
Town
0.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Town in Nantucket - where fresh seafood meets eclectic flavors in a charming coastal setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Murray's Toggery Shop
0.6 km
Discover Nantucket's fashion gem at Murray's Toggery Shop, offering unique clothing and accessories for all ages in a charming island setting.
Cattivo Nantucket
0.6 km
Discover the latest women's fashion trends at Cattivo Nantucket, where style meets the charm of island living.
Lockhart Collection
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Nantucket at the Lockhart Collection, where antique furniture, unique jewelry, and exquisite lighting await.
Olivela
0.6 km
Explore Olivela, Nantucket's premier boutique offering a curated selection of luxury fashion and accessories for the discerning traveler.
Breezin Up
0.7 km
Discover Breezin Up in Nantucket, a charming clothing store offering stylish apparel and unique accessories reflecting the coastal lifestyle.
Eye Of The Needle
0.7 km
Explore Eye Of The Needle in Nantucket for unique, coastal-inspired fashion that embodies the island's charm and elegance.
John Rugge Antiques Shop
0.7 km
Uncover unique historical treasures at John Rugge Antiques Shop, a must-visit destination for antique enthusiasts in Nantucket.
Stephanie's
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique clothing at Stephanie's, a charming shop in Nantucket that captures the island's spirit.
Atlantic Nantucket
0.7 km
Explore Atlantic Nantucket for unique clothing, antiques, and home goods, capturing the island's charm in every exquisite piece.
Alice Walk - Nantucket Store
0.7 km
Shop at Alice Walk in Nantucket for unique women's clothing that blends local charm with contemporary style, making your trip unforgettable.
gypsy
0.7 km
Explore Gypsy Clothing Store in Nantucket for unique fashion that captures the essence of the island's culture and style.
Vis-A-Vis
0.7 km
Discover unique fashion at Vis-A-Vis, Nantucket's charming clothing store with eclectic styles and local flair.
Andersons
0.7 km
Explore Andersons Gift Shop in Nantucket for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the island's enchanting spirit.
The Black Dog General Store - Nantucket
0.7 km
Explore The Black Dog General Store in Nantucket for stylish apparel and unique local gifts, embodying the island's coastal charm.
It's a Shore Thing
0.7 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Nantucket offering unique local crafts and beach-themed souvenirs for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ethos Wine Bar & Bistro
0.7 km
Experience the best of Nantucket dining at Ethos Wine Bar & Bistro, where exquisite wines and bistro cuisine create unforgettable moments.
The Gaslight
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and delightful atmosphere at The Gaslight, a premier dining destination in Nantucket, Massachusetts.
The Tree Bar
0.8 km
Experience the charm of Nantucket at The Tree Bar, where delicious food and craft cocktails meet a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
The Chicken Box
1.5 km
Experience Nantucket's vibrant nightlife at The Chicken Box, a must-visit bar and nightclub offering great drinks and lively atmosphere.
The Muse
1.6 km
Discover The Muse, a vibrant bar in Nantucket offering an extensive drink menu and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and entertainment.
Roxy Pool Bar
35.7 km
Discover the laid-back charm of Roxy Pool Bar in Edgartown, where relaxation meets vibrant coastal vibes and unforgettable evenings.
Pelican Club
35.9 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of cocktails and sushi at Pelican Club, a must-visit bar and Japanese restaurant in Edgartown, Massachusetts.
The Newes From America
36.0 km
Discover The Newes From America, a charming bar in Edgartown offering a delightful blend of American cuisine and vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Brick Cellar Bar
36.5 km
Experience the cozy ambiance and gourmet delights at Brick Cellar Bar in Edgartown, a perfect spot for burgers and fine wine.
Town Bar and Grill MV
37.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse menu at Town Bar and Grill MV, where great food meets unforgettable moments in Edgartown.
Bad Martha Farmers Brewery
37.3 km
Discover the vibrant craft beer scene at Bad Martha Farmers Brewery in Edgartown, Massachusetts, where local flavors come to life.
Ocean House Beach Bar
41.6 km
Enjoy creative cocktails and a vibrant beachside atmosphere at Ocean House Beach Bar in Dennis Port, Massachusetts.
Cleat & Anchor
42.0 km
Discover delicious grill specialties and refreshing drinks at Cleat & Anchor, the perfect coastal dining experience in Dennis Port, Massachusetts.
Captain Parker's Pub
42.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of New England at Captain Parker's Pub, where seafood delights meet a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Offshore Ale Co
42.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Offshore Ale Co, a top brewpub in Oak Bluffs, offering handcrafted beers and delectable dishes in a cozy atmosphere.