Edgartown is not just a picturesque town on the island of Martha's Vineyard, but a veritable treasure trove of history and culture, made world famous by the movie 'Jaws'. Walking through its streets, you can feel the atmosphere that attracted Steven Spielberg and his film crew here in the 1970s.

One of the most recognizable symbols of Edgartown is undoubtedly the Jaws Bridge, or Jaws Bridge. This inconspicuous structure, officially known as the American Legion Memorial Bridge, connects Edgartown to Oak Bluffs and has become an iconic element of the film. The bridge appears in several key scenes of the thriller, and today is a popular spot for tourists who want to feel the thrill of jumping off it into the water (though note that this is only allowed in designated areas and with safety precautions). Interestingly, the bridge has become an unofficial rite of passage for many visitors to the island - jumping off the Jaws Bridge is a must-do for many tourists, even though it is not a particularly tall structure.

Not far from the bridge is Joseph Sylvia State Beach, a beach that also appeared in the film. It was here that the famous shark attack scenes were filmed, which forever changed the way people view swimming in the ocean. Today, the beach is a peaceful vacation spot, with the only 'danger' perhaps being seagulls hunting for sandwiches left unattended.

The heart of historic Edgartown is undoubtedly the Edgartown Historic District, which encompasses the center of town with its distinctive colonial architecture. Strolling along the cobblestone streets among the white captain's houses of the 19th century, one can be transported back in time to an era when Edgartown was a thriving whaling port. Many of these impressive mansions were built by whaling ship captains who became wealthy from the whale oil trade - a valuable resource used to light homes before the age of electricity.

The Edgartown Historic District is not only beautiful architecture, but also a living lesson in American history. The town has retained its original 18th century street layout, and many of the buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Of note is the 1843 Old Whaling Church, an impressive example of Greek Revival architecture that served as a meeting place for the whaling community. Today the building is used as a venue for concerts and cultural events.

An integral part of Edgartown's landscape is the Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse, a lighthouse that has pointed the way for ships entering the harbor since 1828. The current structure dates from 1939, and while it is not as tall as some other lighthouses on the New England coast, its distinctive white exterior has become a symbol of the town. The lighthouse is open to the public during the summer season, and from its top one can enjoy a breathtaking view of the bay and surrounding islands. Interestingly, the lighthouse was also visible in several shots of the movie 'Jaws,' providing a picturesque backdrop for the drama unfolding on screen.

Right next to the lighthouse is Lighthouse Beach, a small but charming beach that offers a quieter alternative to the island's more crowded swimming areas. The water here is shallower and calmer than the beaches on the ocean side, making it ideal for families with children. The beach also offers a beautiful view of Edgartown Harbor with its many yachts and boats.

Also important on the map of historic Edgartown is Edgartown Memorial Wharf, a marina that has served as the center of the town's maritime life for generations. It's from here that boats depart for nearby Chappaquiddick Island, and during the summer season the marina bustles with activity as fishermen land their catch and tourists enjoy the view. The harbor also appeared in the film 'Jaws,' providing the backdrop for several scenes set in the harbor of the fictional island of Amity.

For history buffs, the real gem is the Vincent House Museum, the oldest surviving house on the island, built around 1672. This modest but charming property offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the first settlers on Martha's Vineyard. The interior of the house has been carefully restored and furnished with 17th and 18th century furniture and household items. Guides dressed in period costumes talk about the hardships of colonial life and what daily life was like for the island's first residents.

In addition to the historic center and movie locations, Edgartown also offers unusual natural attractions that provide a great break from the hustle and bustle of the city. One such place is the Mytoi Japanese Garden, a true gem hidden on Chappaquiddick Island, which can be reached by a short ferry ride from Edgartown.

Mytoi is a small but delightful Japanese garden that was established in the 1950s. It covers an area of just three acres, but offers a remarkably peaceful and harmonious space that transports visitors to faraway Japan. The centerpiece of the garden is a picturesque pond with an island, surrounded by carefully trimmed trees and shrubs, stone paths and traditional elements of Japanese garden architecture.

The history of the Mytoi garden is as fascinating as the garden itself. It was founded by island resident Hugh Jones, who was inspired by Japanese garden art during his travels. In 1991, the garden was almost completely destroyed by Hurricane Bob, but thanks to the efforts of conservationists and gardeners, it was rebuilt and today is more beautiful than ever. Walking along the winding paths among azaleas, rhododendrons and Japanese maples, one can experience true zen - a state of calm and contemplation that is the essence of Japanese garden philosophy.

Interestingly, Mytoi is home to many species of birds that have taken a liking to this peaceful corner. Bird lovers can spot cardinals, titmice and woodpeckers, among others, here. The garden is open all year round, and each season brings different highlights - from spring flowers, summer shadows, autumn colors and winter tranquility.

Another natural treasure in Edgartown is Mass Audubon's Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, a nature preserve encompassing more than 200 acres of forest, grassland, saltwater marsh and shoreline. It's an ideal place for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. The reserve offers more than four miles of hiking trails that lead through diverse ecosystems and provide opportunities to observe the island's rich wildlife.

Felix Neck is a true paradise for ornithologists - more than 100 species of birds can be observed here, including eagles, falcons, herons and many species of water birds. The reserve is also home to many species of mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Of particular interest are the educational programs offered by the Felix Neck Nature Center, which introduce visitors to the island's ecology and teach them how to protect its delicate ecosystems.

One of the lesser-known but worthwhile attractions in the Edgartown area is South Beach (also known as Katama Beach). This three-mile beach on the Atlantic side offers spectacular views and excellent surfing, swimming and fishing. Unlike the calmer beaches on the bay side, South Beach features stronger waves and currents, which attracts water sports enthusiasts.

South Beach also has a cinematic history - it was here that some of the scenes for the movie 'Jaws' were filmed, including the famous opening scene in which a young woman falls victim to a shark during a night swim. Today, the beach is much safer, and the only 'danger' can be strong ocean currents, which lifeguards warn against.

Also worth mentioning is The Carnegie Heritage Center, which is housed in a historic library building founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1904. Managed by the Vineyard Preservation Trust, the center offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the island of Martha's Vineyard. Exhibits on display at the center tell the story of the island's rich past, from the days of the indigenous Wampanoag people, through the whaling era, to the present day.

The Carnegie Building, with its distinctive neoclassical-style architecture, is a work of art in itself. Inside, many original features have been preserved, including wooden bookcases, ornate columns and stained glass windows. The center also hosts workshops, lectures and other cultural events that introduce visitors to the island's history and traditions.

For those who want to experience the authentic flavors of the island, the Rosewater Market should be a must-stop. This small but characterful store and cafe offers local produce, from fresh seafood to organic vegetables from local farms to craft beers and wines. Rosewater is also famous for its sandwiches and baked goods, which can be eaten on the premises or taken for a picnic on the beach.

An interesting fact is that many of the products sold at Rosewater come from The FARM Institute, an educational farm that teaches sustainable farming and animal husbandry. This farm, located on the outskirts of Edgartown, is open to the public and offers educational programs for children and adults. Here you can see what daily life is like on the farm, learn about different species of farm animals and learn more about organic farming methods.

Edgartown is not only about history and nature, but also the vibrant cultural center of the island of Martha's Vineyard. The town offers a rich program of art events, festivals and exhibitions that attract locals and tourists alike.

One of the city's cultural centers is the Eisenhauer Gallery, a prestigious art gallery located on North Water Street. The gallery specializes in contemporary art and represents established regional and national artists. Regular openings and meetings with artists make it an important point on the island's cultural map. Interestingly, the gallery is located in a historic building, which is a work of art in itself - its distinctive architecture combines colonial elements with modern touches.

History and culture lovers should also visit the Edgartown Fire Museum, a small but fascinating museum dedicated to the history of the local fire department. Housed in a historic 1883 firehouse, the museum displays a collection of antique firefighting equipment, including hand pumps, horse-drawn wagons and the first motorized fire engines. Of particular interest is the story of the great fire of 1883, which destroyed much of the town and led to the establishment of a professional fire department in Edgartown.

Also worth mentioning is Edgartown's rich literary tradition. The town was the home or vacation spot for many famous writers, including John Updike and William Styron. The atmosphere of the small coastal town, with its quiet rhythm of life and picturesque views, has always inspired artists and writers. Today, this tradition continues with numerous bookstores, book clubs and literary festivals held on the island.

Edgartown is also known for its festivals and cultural events. One of the most popular is the Edgartown Harbor Festival, which takes place in July and includes boat parades, contests, concerts and fireworks displays. Another major event is Christmas in Edgartown, a holiday festival that transforms the town into a winter wonderland, with illuminations, parades, carol concerts and the traditional lighting of the Christmas tree.

When planning a visit to Edgartown, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind. The best time to visit the town is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is best and most attractions are open. The peak tourist season is in July and August, when the city is bustling, but is also the most crowded. For those who prefer a quieter atmosphere, June and September may be a better choice - the weather is still pleasant and the crowds of tourists are much smaller.

Getting to the island of Martha's Vineyard requires a ferry crossing, as there is no bridge connecting it to the mainland. Ferries depart from several Massachusetts ports, including Woods Hole, Hyannis and New Bedford. During the summer season, ferries also run from Rhode Island and New York. It's worth booking tickets in advance, especially if you plan to travel with a car.

Getting around Edgartown is relatively easy. The city center is compact and best explored on foot. For those who want to reach more distant attractions, there are bicycles for rent, cabs and public transportation. It is worth remembering that parking in the city center can be difficult to access and relatively expensive during the summer season.

In terms of lodging, Edgartown offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels and guesthouses in historic captain's houses to more affordable motels and campgrounds. However, prices are generally higher than on the mainland, especially during peak season. Booking well in advance is strongly recommended.

Also worth mentioning is the local cuisine, which is an important part of the island's culture. Edgartown is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly lobster, clams and fish. Local restaurants offer a variety of dishes, from simple but delicious lobster snacks (lobster rolls) to sophisticated dishes prepared by acclaimed chefs. Many of the restaurants use local, seasonal produce, which ensures the unique flavor and freshness of the dishes.

All in all, Edgartown is a destination that offers a unique combination of history, culture, nature and entertainment. Whether you're a fan of the movie 'Jaws,' a fan of maritime history, a nature enthusiast or just looking for a quiet vacation spot, this charming town on the island of Martha's Vineyard has something to offer. Its rich history, picturesque landscapes and friendly atmosphere make it a place you want to return to.

It's also worth remembering that Edgartown, like the entire island of Martha's Vineyard, places a high value on environmental protection and sustainability. Visitors are encouraged to respect local nature, use public transportation or bicycles instead of cars, and support local businesses and manufacturers. This will ensure that the unique beauty and character of this special place can also be enjoyed by future generations of visitors.