Step inside one of America's most enchanting — and least-known — National Historic Landmarks: the 19th-century Methodist Camp Meeting Grounds, a fairytale labyrinth of 300 hand-painted gingerbread cottages radiating from the open-air Trinity Park Tabernacle.
What to expect
Wander a sun-dappled network of narrow lanes where every cottage is a confection of carved woodwork, pastel paint, and flower-draped porches — no two alike. The grounds centre on the magnificent 1879 Trinity Park Tabernacle, a wrought-iron open-air structure that still hosts summer concerts. The atmosphere is hushed, almost dreamlike, and surprisingly crowd-free on weekday mornings. Pick up a self-guided map at the MVCMA office for the full architectural narrative.
Good to know
The grounds are a 5-minute walk from the Oak Bluffs ferry/tender dock. Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewest crowds. The MVCMA office can provide historical literature. Seasonal Tabernacle tours run on select mornings — confirm schedule on arrival. No booking required for the grounds themselves.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Oak Bluffs — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Oak Bluffs
- Full-Island Private Van Tour: All Six Towns & Aquinnah Cliffs
- Martha's Vineyard African American Heritage Trail: Oak Bluffs Walking Tour
- East Chop Lighthouse & Blufftop Panorama: Oak Bluffs' Hidden Crown
- Flying Horses Carousel: A Ride on America's Oldest Platform Carousel
- Inkwell Beach Morning: Oak Bluffs' Most Iconic, History-Laden Shore