Main Street views include the harbor and waterfront and although the tall square-riggers that sailed all the world's oceans have passed from the scene, the heritage of these vessels and their captains remains. For the past hundred years, Edgartown has been one of the world's great yachting centers. The town is also known for its architecture with many buildings that pre-date the whaling era and still serve as family homes. Among the oldest buildings are the Vincent House, built in 1672, the Thomas Cooke House, now a museum, and the offices of the Vineyard Gazette. The venerable Old Whaling Church is now a performing arts center.
Public beaches offer surf bathing and bluefish and bass fishing.
Special activities for all age groups are offered throughout the year. Edgartown is bordered by Oak Bluffs and Nantucket Sound on the north, Katama Bay on the east, the Atlantic Ocean on the south, and West Tisbury on the west. Edgartown is separated from Chappaquiddick Island by Katama Bay. It includes both subsidized affordable units and market rate units in certain eligible subsidized developments. Ferry service is the vital link to and from the Island.