There has been a hostelry on this Main Street site just above Vineyard Haven Harbor since 1794; today's Mansion House opened in 2003, following a major fire to its predecessor. Apart from the cheerful, summery rooms—some with balconies, gas fireplaces, and soaking tubs—the cupola deck provides a pleasant spot for a respite. It affords sweeping views of the harbor, the town, and the lagoon that stretches between Vineyard Haven and Oak Bluffs. Afternoon cookies and lemonade are served there or you can BYOB. The hotel's Zephrus Restaurant serves reliable American fare and is also a nice spot for cocktails. Pros: Restaurant and spa on-site, steps from Vineyard Haven shopping and ferry, light-filled rooms. Cons: No grounds to speak of, center-of-it-all locale can be a little noisy, not historic.
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip