According to gradinmath.com, Dukes County, Massachusetts is located in the southeastern part of the state and consists of Martha’s Vineyard, Chappaquiddick Island, and a few smaller islands. It is a popular summer destination for visitors from all over the world. The total population of Dukes County is approximately 17,000 people. The majority of its inhabitants are of European ancestry with smaller numbers from Hispanic and African American backgrounds.
The history of Dukes County dates back to 1602 when it was first settled by English immigrants. Martha’s Vineyard was named after explorer Bartholomew Gosnold’s daughter Martha who died before her father’s voyage was completed. Chappaquiddick Island also has a long history as it was once an important fishing spot for Native Americans and one of the first settlements on the island that dates back to 1690.
Today, Dukes County is home to many attractions for visitors to enjoy such as sandy beaches, lighthouses, historic sites, wineries, art galleries, golf courses, and much more. It also has a vibrant cultural scene with many festivals taking place throughout the year such as the Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival and the Chilmark Music Festival.
In addition to its many attractions, Dukes County has been home to some famous people including authors Herman Melville and Nathaniel Philbrick as well as singer James Taylor who wrote his hit song “Sweet Baby James” while living on Martha’s Vineyard in 1970. Notable politicians who have called Dukes County their home include former president John F Kennedy Jr., Senator Edward M Kennedy Jr., and current Senator Elizabeth Warren who all spent time on Martha’s Vineyard growing up.
With its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to Dukes County each year.
Climate and weather in Dukes County, Massachusetts
According to educationvv.com, Dukes County, Massachusetts has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The average summer temperature in July is around 75°F (24°C) while the average winter temperature in January is around 33°F (1°C). The area also receives an average of 50 inches (127 cm) of precipitation annually.
The summer months are generally mild and sunny with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (18-29 Celsius). Rainfall is usually light during this season, but occasional thunderstorms can occur. Spring and fall tend to be mild and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (7-24 Celsius).
Winters in Dukes County are cold and snowy with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall usually begins in late November or early December and continues through March or April. In addition to snow, blizzards can occur during these months as well. While snowstorms are common during the winter months, they usually only last a few days at a time before clearing up again.
Dukes County experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year offering visitors plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, skiing and much more. The area also enjoys some beautiful sunsets over its many beaches throughout the year making it a great place for sunbathing or simply taking in some incredible views.
Transportation in Dukes County, Massachusetts
Dukes County, Massachusetts is accessible via several modes of transportation. The most common form of transportation in the area is by car, with ferry service also available for those traveling from Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket.
By Car: Driving is the most popular way to get around Dukes County. There are several highways and roads that connect the various towns in the county, making it easy to get around. Drivers should be aware that some roads may be closed during winter months due to snow and ice.
Ferry Service: Ferries are a great way to travel between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket as well as other islands in Dukes County. Ferries depart regularly from Woods Hole on Cape Cod, Hyannis on Cape Cod and New Bedford on the mainland. The ferries offer stunning views of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket along the way as well as access to some of the best beaches in Dukes County.
Public Transportation: There is limited public transportation available within Dukes County, but there are bus routes that connect some towns within the county with each other and with other parts of Massachusetts. Additionally, there are shuttle buses available for those who are visiting Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket specifically for a day trip or a short stay.
Bicycles: Cycling is another popular form of transportation in Dukes County due to its flat terrain and abundance of bike trails throughout the area. Bikes can be rented from local shops or brought along if you’re traveling from outside of Dukes County.
getting around Dukes County can be done easily by car, ferry service or public transportation depending on your needs and preferences. Bikes are also a great option for exploring this picturesque area while getting some exercise at the same time.
Cities and towns in Dukes County, Massachusetts
According to COUNTRYAAH, Dukes County, Massachusetts is made up of six towns and two cities, all of which offer something unique to visitors. The cities are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs, which are both located on Martha’s Vineyard. The towns are Aquinnah, Chilmark, Gosnold, West Tisbury and Tisbury, which are located on Martha’s Vineyard as well as the island of Nantucket.
Edgartown is the oldest town in Dukes County and boasts a rich history that dates back to colonial times. Visitors can explore its charming harborfront district with its quaint shops and restaurants or take a leisurely stroll along its cobblestone streets to admire the classic architecture. There is also an abundance of outdoor activities such as kayaking, sailing, fishing and more available in Edgartown.
Oak Bluffs is known for its unique gingerbread-style cottages that line the streets near the harborfront district. Here visitors can enjoy some shopping or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants nearby before heading out onto the water for some fun activities such as whale watching or fishing trips.
Aquinnah is located on Martha’s Vineyard’s westernmost tip and has some incredible views of Gay Head Cliffs overlooking Nantucket Sound. This small town offers visitors plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking trails and beaches for swimming, sunbathing or simply taking in some incredible views.
Chilmark is one of Martha’s Vineyard’s most rural towns with rolling hillsides covered in wildflowers during springtime and stunning views from Menemsha Hills overlooking Menemsha Pond. Visitors can explore this peaceful area by bike or foot while admiring the natural beauty along the way.
Gosnold is an unincorporated town located on Cuttyhunk Island off Martha’s Vineyard’s southeastern coast that offers visitors plenty of peace and quiet away from it all. It’s great for swimming, boating, fishing or simply relaxing on one of its many beaches surrounded by stunning scenery.
West Tisbury has some great attractions such as Lambert’s Cove Beach where visitors can enjoy swimming in crystal clear waters or walking along nature trails through woodlands full of wildlife. There are also several historic sites here including The Old Whaling Church which dates back to 1743 and makes for a great photo opportunity.
Tisbury is located on Martha’s Vineyard near Edgartown Harbor with plenty of shops offering local goods such as arts & crafts or handmade jewelry perfect for souvenirs. Visitors can also explore its waterfront park with picnic areas perfect for enjoying lunch while taking in views across Nantucket Sound towards Nantucket Island itself.
