Facility Overview

Situated in the heart of historic downtown Nantucket at 5 Candle Street, Valet Park of America operates at the landmark National Grid property, right by the corner of Candle and Commercial Streets. This premium, town-contracted open-air surface facility serves as a vital downtown parking hub during Nantucket's vibrant summer and shoulder seasons. As a dedicated valet operation, professional attendants manage vehicle check-in and staging, maximizing space efficiency and sparing drivers the hassle of searching for elusive street parking on the island's narrow roadways.

Because the facility is a fully open-air gravel lot without overhead beams or low-clearance decks, there are no vertical clearance restrictions. The lot readily accommodates sedans, crossover utility vehicles, full-size SUVs, and large pickup trucks commonly driven by residents, seasonal visitors, and island contractors. Valet staff expertly stage vehicles in designated lanes, ensuring secure, professional handling throughout each vehicle's stay.

Prime Location & Nearby Attractions

Located immediately adjacent to the downtown waterfront and the Nantucket Boat Basin, 5 Candle Street offers an unbeatable central location within walking distance of the island’s most iconic dining, shopping, and maritime attractions:

• Nantucket Boat Basin & Straight Wharf: Just a 2-minute walk (less than 0.1 miles) away, putting yachting slips, seaside bars, and dockside seafood spots right at your feet.
• Ferry Terminals: Located a brief 3 to 6-minute stroll from both the Hy-Line Cruises terminal on Straight Wharf and the Steamship Authority terminal on Steamboat Wharf.
• Main Street Historic District: Only a 3-minute walk (0.2 miles) to world-class boutiques, art galleries, high-end jewelers, and historic cobblestone lanes.
• The Dreamland Film & Cultural Center: Just 2 minutes away on South Water Street for movies, lectures, and live theatre performances.
• Nantucket Whaling Museum & Nantucket Atheneum: Accessible within a scenic 5 to 7-minute walk through downtown Nantucket.
• Waterfront Dining: Steps away from renowned local favorites such as Cru, The Tavern, slip14, and Provisions.

Access, Navigation & Transit Connectivity

Access to 5 Candle Street is straightforward via Washington Street or Commercial Street, connecting smoothly into Nantucket's downtown core. Egress after busy evening dinner seatings or departing ferry rushes is facilitated by valet staff, who queue and return vehicles with minimal delay. Drivers should note that downtown Nantucket features historic, tight cobblestone streets with active foot traffic and cyclists, so cautious driving is recommended upon approach.

For onward transit across the island, the facility is located just a 3-minute walk from the Greenhound Bus Building on Washington Street, the central hub for the Nantucket Regional Transit Authority (NRTA / The Wave) shuttle buses that connect downtown to Jetties Beach, Madaket, Siasconset, Surfside Beach, and Nantucket Memorial Airport (ACK). On-street taxi stands and rideshare pickup areas are also situated within footsteps along the wharf corridor.

Facility Amenities & Key Features

• Full Valet Service: Attendants greet you on arrival, handle all vehicle maneuvering, and promptly retrieve your vehicle upon presentation of your valet ticket.
• On-Site Luggage Storage / Bag Check: A rare island convenience offering daily baggage storage, ideal for day-trippers and travelers waiting between ferry arrivals and vacation rental check-ins.
• Open-Air Staging: Ground-level lot with no ceiling height limits, accommodating high-profile roof racks and full-size trucks.
• Recently Restored Brick Headquarters: Features dedicated operations counters, modern lighting, and on-site staff presence.
• Multiple Payment Methods: Major credit cards, mobile payments, and cash accepted.
• Overnight Parking Option: Validated overnight parking is permitted with morning pickup terms.

Ideal For

• Downtown Diners & Shoppers: Visitors seeking stress-free parking while exploring the historic district and waterfront restaurants.
• Ferry Commuters & Day Visitors: Passengers arriving or departing via Hy-Line or Steamship Authority ferries needing short-term vehicle care or secure luggage storage.
• Island Second-Home Owners & Vacationers: Guests staying at downtown inns or Boat Basin slips without designated on-site vehicle parking.
• Evening Event & Theatre Patrons: Attendees visiting The Dreamland or private harborfront events.

Visitor & Driver Tips

Because downtown Nantucket parking is at a severe premium—especially in July and August—the lot can reach capacity during peak weekend lunch and dinner periods. Plan to drop off your vehicle early if you are catching a scheduled ferry or have strict dinner reservations. If you utilize the overnight parking option, remember to retrieve your vehicle prior to the designated morning cutoff (typically 11:00 AM) to avoid incremental daily charges. For luggage check services, no advance reservation is required; simply approach the desk inside the newly renovated Candle Street operations office.