Activities, Attractions and Camps for Kids on Martha’s Vineyard this Summer

Photo: Monique Belair

To be a kid on Martha’s Vineyard during the summer months is truly a dream come true. With miles of beaches to frolic on and dozens of ice cream shops to satisfy the their sweet tooths there’s no place they’d rather be. Headed to Martha’s Vineyard this season and curious what to do with the little ones? Here’s a helpful list of attractions to help keep them active and entertained. 

Flying Horses Carousel 

Photo: Monique Belair

A ride on the Flying Horses Carousel is a rite of passage for every kid (and adult!). Bring the kids to the nation’s oldest operating carousel, now in its 143rd season, so they can try their luck with grabbing the coveted brass ring in hopes of winning an extra ride free of charge. Kids can also enjoy a variety of other smaller rides and arcade games while they wait to ride atop their favorite horse. 

Oak Bluffs Game Room (Ryan Family Amusements)

Photo: Ryan Family Amusements

Ryan Amusements Martha’s Vineyard Game Room on Circuit Avenue features over 75 video games and arcade games sure to bring out the kid in all of us. While the kids try their luck at skeeball you can browse the display case of prizes with nostalgic items from whoopie cushions to ring pops. 

The Barn Bowl & Bistro

Further up Circuit Avenue is the Island’s only bowling alley, open year round, and offering a full bar and restaurant that’s a dining destination all on its own. Kids can enjoy bumper bowling and you’ll appreciate the air conditioned escape from the summer heat. 

Pirate Adventures Martha's Vineyard

For the kids that love adventure, pirate booty and a chance to shoot water cannons at rogue pirates, Pirate Adventures offers a fully immersive experience. You and the kids can set sail on a pirate's treasure hunt along the shores of Oak Bluffs on a custom built pirate ship. The family friendly adventures invites the kids to dress up, assemble a treasure map, and retrieve a sunken treasure from the ocean floor. We promise you’ll have just as much fun as they will. 

​Island Alpaca Farm Fun

Photo: Max Bossman

For animal lovers of all ages, Island Alpaca in Oak Bluffs is a must-visit. The original purchase of eight alpacas in 2004 has grown to a herd of over 50 colorful, friendly alpaca that graze at the farm today. Kids are invited to watch the animals, interact with them and assist with feedings. Their soft fleece makes for super soft, cozy clothes and adorable trinkets available in their expansive gift shop. 

Island Cove Adventures

The Island's only mini-golf course, Island Cove Adventures is a super fun place to take the littles. The course features some of the coolest themed holes you'll ever play on. Plus, the snack bar offers delicious and freshly grilled burgers and sandwiches — and it's a little insider tip that Island Cove makes the best ice cream cookie sandwich. You pick the flavor, and they make them to order! YUM

Camps, camps, and more camps 

Photo: Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary

​Dozens of Martha’s Vineyard businesses and organizations offer summer camps and programs throughout the season that are sure to stimulate, educate, and inspire your little one. Aspiring farmer? The Farm Institute has a camp for that. Young artist? Featherstone has a camp for that. Free spirited adventure seeker? The YMCA has a camp for that too. Check out our full list of camps on Martha’s Vineyard and find the perfect place to nurture your child’s interests all summer long.