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Tour Martha's Vineyard With the Owners of Vineyard Vines

 Photo: Courtesy of Vineyard Vines
Photo: Courtesy of Vineyard Vines

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Vineyard Vines, the preppy shop that stocks clothing and accessories for men, women, and children—and doesn't shy away from pastel, nautical-themed neckties—hosts its grand opening on Michigan Avenue tonight.

The store is not-so-subtly inspired by an iconic summer destination—that would be Martha's Vineyard—so we figured co-owners Shep and Ian Murray would be able to recommend a few spots to hit up next time we voyage to the seaside town.

Before we could say "The Black Dog," this passionate-traveler duo sent us a typed list of all the Island has to offer. Check out their picks, below, and then file this away in your Summer Dreamin' folder.

Or favorite beach is...
The Gut at Cape Pogue or Norton Point. Cape Pogue is only accessible by boat or four wheel drive.

Best Breakfast in town?
Dock St. Coffee Shop. We go so often our kids know which days their favorite waitresses work. Another fun activity is to ride your bike to Morning Glory Farm and grab a smoothie or muffins to go.

Lunchtime! Help.
Katama General Store has gourmet food to go with a quaint vibe, Slice of Life is perfect for easy sit-down sandwiches and salads, and Among the Flowers Café has a pretty patio and is owned by our childhood friend.

Best Bets for Dinner?
Our favorite is a casual beach BBQ at Norton Point. If you're looking for sit-down dining, l'etoile is very nice. For a kid-friendly meal, Sharkey's is lots of fun and has great food.

Where to sip sunset cocktails...
The patio at The Seafood Shanty. Try the Mudslides.

Where to go for a sugar fix...
Mad Martha's for ice cream and Murdick's Fudge

Where to Stay...
Our favorite is Harbor View Hotel. Ask for a cottage in the back. If you're looking for someplace a little more romantic, try The Charlotte Inn.

The best fishing Spot...
The guys at Coop's Bate and Tackle are the best, we fish wherever they tell us.

What's the best spot for live music?
Dreamland is historic and newly restored, they always have a good mix of live music.

Where to golf?
Farm Neck is a great course and open to the public

For art lovers...
The Granary Gallery at The Red Barn boasts a collection of antiques and art and is the largest gallery on the island. Their other gallery, North Water Gallery in Edgartown shows two of our favorite artists, Ray Ellis and Ovid Ward. The Vineyard Glassworks facility is gorgeous and full of a diverse collection of glasswork. It's especially fun to watch artists in the studio. They offer great educational tools as well, if you're interested in learning more about glass blowing.

One-of-a-kind store?
Alley's General Store is a Martha's Vineyard institution and sells a mix of all sorts of products.

Alley's is run by the Martha's Vineyard Preservation Trust, which works to maintain many of the island's historic treasures, including the Flying Horses Carousel. It's the nation's oldest platform carousel, which is too fun. Hope you grab the brass ring.

Do not miss:
Visit Menemsha Harbor for the best views of the sunset on the whole island
· Vineyard Vines [Official Site]
· Vineyard Vines Will Bring Preppy Basics to Michigan Avenue [Racked Chicago]

Vineyard Vines

540 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL