The best place to stay for a weekend trip is in Nantucket town, which is within walking distance of some of the island’s best restaurants, scenic spots, and historical sites. Bed & Breakfasts, including The Nantucket Whaler Guest House and Brass Lantern Inn are very popular, but larger resorts like The Beachside at Nantucket attracts a fair share of visitors as well.

Day 1: Explore Downtown Nantucket

Take a stroll up the historic cobblestoned Main Street and peek in the windows of all the shops you may want to visit this weekend. Stop off at Nantucket Pharmacy's soda fountain and get an old-tyme ice cream soda or frappe (we don't call them milkshakes in these parts). After you are pleasantly refreshed find out where Nantucketers get that stellar look at the official home of Nantucket Reds: Murray’s Toggery Shop.

A trip to Nantucket would not be complete with out checking out Nantucket’s world-class shopping. Not only can you shop for authentic Nantucket products like scrimshaw, lightship baskets, and antiques, but you can also find fashionable couture and incredible artwork. You might also want to pick up some Portuguese Bread from Something Natural to put in the freezer at home. It’s delicious anyway you slice it.

Get your vacation going as you lounge at The Gazebo on Straight Wharf watching sailors and landlubbers alike walk the docks. Once you’ve had your fill of Nantucket’s own brew, Cisco Brewers, sit down to a delicious dinner at The Even Keel. If you’ve got on your dancing shoes, take a cab to The Chicken Box to drink a “Life is Good” (a local concoction) and dance the night away to some music. You’re going to be hungry after your night out, so stop by the strip for some late night treats.

Day 2: Discover the History

Rise and shine early the next morning and mosey on over to Brant Point Lighthouse to watch the sun rise and the sailboats put up their sails. The best breakfast in town can be found at Black Eyed Susan’s, an intimate eatery on Centre Street. Their Jack Daniel's pancakes are amazing, as well as their Portuguese Scramble.

Once you’ve gathered your strength, it’s time to really get a feel for the island’s history. Go to The Nantucket Whaling Museum to learn about the time when Nantucket was the Whaling Capital of the World. All of this history can really build up an appetite, so stop by Provisions to get a Turkey Terrific on Nantucket’s own Portuguese bread. If that L-Tryptophan makes you sleepy, you’re going to need some good lounging time on the beach. You are on an island after all.

Stroll down to Jetties Beach and hit up the beach shack or The Jetties Restaurant for everything you need for a day at the beach. Relax. Take a dip. Catch some rays and watch the boats round the Jetties rocks. When the evening rolls around, try dinner at LoLa 41˚ (Nantucket's coordinates) where you can have your fill of sushi, American Cuisine, and what might be the best burger ever. If you’re feeling feisty, go the bar at The Boarding House or The Pearl on Federal St., and, afterwards, hit up some other Nantucket watering holes like The Rose & Crown or Cambridge Street.

On the ferry ride home, make sure to make a wish a throw a penny off the boat as you round Brant Point Lighthouse to hope for a safe return home.