best time to visit plymouth ma

The Essential Guide to Plymouth, MA

Famed as the site of the first Pilgrim settlement, Plymouth, MA, is loved for its classic New England charm.

By Cathryn McCann

Jul 06 2022

Guide to Plymouth, MA | Harbor

Founded in 1620, Plymouth, MA, is a coastal town south of Boston that’s anchored in history as the site of the first Pilgrim settlement. But while all its historical markers and sites may be the initial draw, Plymouth has a quintessential New England feel and historic architecture, downtown shops, and expansive ocean views that keep visitors coming back year after year. From tasty cuisine to cranberry festivals, there’s always plenty to do in “America’s Hometown.”

Intrigued by this seaside town that is equal parts historical and modern New England? Here are some of our favorite places to eat, things to do, and places to stay in Plymouth, MA.

Things to Do in Plymouth, MA

Plimoth patuxet.

This living history museum (formerly Plimoth Plantation) allows visitors to immerse themselves in the past as they walk through a 17th-century English village, tour a replica of the Mayflower (the ship is currently receiving a full restoration and will return in 2019), and visit the Wampanoag Homesite and the beautiful and iconic Plimoth Grist Mill . The plantation, with its interactive elements and ocean view, is a great destination for families. Named a 2017 Yankee Editors’ Pick for “Best Historical Experience.”

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SEE MORE: Plimoth Patuxet| New England Living History Museum

PLYMOUTH FARMERS’ MARKET

Set on the grounds of Plimoth Plantation, this market gets extra points for its scenic backdrop and living-close-to-the-land vibe. Held outdoors every Thursday from May to October (and once a month indoors during winter), it rounds up the region’s bounty from 40 vendors that run the gamut from farmers and fishermen to beekeepers and bakers. Relatively speaking they’re a small group, but one clearly devoted to a larger mission—our Pilgrim forebears would no doubt have approved. Named a 2018 Yankee Editors’ Pick for “Best Farmers’ Market.”

HISTORIC SITES

While you shouldn’t miss Plymouth Rock, touted (more as legend rather than fact) as the first bit of land touched by the Pilgrims after their voyage across the ocean, there are also many historical sites available for touring — including homes of original Mayflower passengers. Among the options are the Jabez Howland House, the Richard Sparrow House, the Spooner House, Hedge House, and Harlow Old Fort House. And be sure to take a moment to view the National Monument to the Forefathers, a towering 81-foot-tall statue on the Allerton Street hilltop that commemorates the Pilgrims.

PILGRIM HALL MUSEUM

For history you can enjoy indoors, head to Pilgrim Hall Museum, easily spotted from the street thanks to its ornate architecture and stone columns. Built in 1824, it’s among the oldest public museums in America and brimming with American Indian and Pilgrim artifacts. You can even touch a piece of Plymouth Rock here.

OUTDOOR EXPLORATION

Given Plymouth’s setting on the coast of Massachusetts, there are plenty of lovely natural areas to explore here. Check out Pilgrim Memorial State Park, Nelson Memorial Park, Myles Standish State Forest, Ellisville Harbor State Park salt marsh estuary, or White Horse and Plymouth Long beaches. You can hike the Town Forest Trail (7.9 miles), Center Hill Preserve Trail (1.7 miles), or Russell and Sawmill Pond Trail (1.8 miles), or head to some of the preserves and conservation areas for more options. For a little exploration from the water, try Billington Sea Kayak.

Otherwise known as the Spire Center for Performing Arts, this impressive three-story, 225-seat performance hall downtown is the place for enjoying theatrical and musical productions while visiting Plymouth.

CRANBERRY HARVEST CELEBRATION

Every October, locals and visitors alike gather in nearby Wareham for this weekend celebration of the Massachusetts state berry. Hop on a bus for a ride to a stretch of bogs to learn about the harvest process, or slip on some waders and get right into the flooded cranberry bog. Enjoy food, music, crafts, paddleboat rides on Tihonet Pond, children’s activities, cooking demonstrations, wagon rides, and even helicopter rides.

COLONY PLACE SHOPPING

If you’ve had your fill of history, head to Plymouth’s premier shopping and dining destination, Colony Place. At the region’s largest open-air retail center, located just minutes from downtown, you can browse among 40 stores and get a bite at any of nearly a dozen restaurants on-site.

Places to Stay in Plymouth, MA

A 50-guestroom retreat in a French manor house, Mirbeau surrounds its guests in beauty, thanks to detailed architecture, Monet pond gardens, and lovely landscaping and decor. On-site dining is available at the Bistro & Wine Bar. Named a 2015 Yankee Editors’ Pick for “Best Chateau Lodging.”

THE JESSE HARLOW HOUSE

This bed-and-breakfast on Watson’s Hill, overlooking downtown and the harbor, offers a perfect blend of history (it was once the home of Revolutionary War captain Jesse Harlow) and modern luxury (full gourmet breakfast, silk drapes, landscaped gardens). Plus, it’s within walking distance of many Plymouth attractions and dining options.

WHITFIELD HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST

If you want to be in the heart of history, consider the Whitfield, an 1782 Federal home on Plymouth’s second-oldest street. Located in the historic waterfront district, the house was occupied by descendants of the original owner for 200 years before being passed to its current owner, in 1987.

JOHN CARVER INN & SPA

This 80-room boutique hotel is a solid option for families, as it provides a range of amenities that appeal to all ages. The on-site Pilgrim Cove Indoor Theme Pool features an 80-foot water slide, waterfalls, and a Jacuzzi. Pamper yourself at the Beach Plum Spa, dine at the Hearth ’n Kettle Restaurant or WaterFire Tavern, and then settle into one of the spacious rooms or fireplace suites. Named a 2014 Yankee Editors’ Pick for “Best Indoor Pool.”

PINEWOOD LODGE CAMPGROUND

For fans of the great outdoors, Pinewood Lodge Campground — with its 200 acres of white pine forest, 3,000 feet of lake frontage, six-acre island, and 300 campsites — is a great option. Enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, exploring, or just relaxing. The campground has a store with all the supplies you may need, plus modern bathroom facilities and RV hookups.

PILGRIM SANDS HOTEL

If you like the idea of walking out of your room and onto the beach, Pilgrim Sands might be the place for you. Its private beach leads to Plymouth Long Beach, which offers miles of seaside strolling. If the ocean doesn’t beckon you, however, Pilgrim Sands features both an indoor and outdoor pool, plus beachfront dining and a lounge. Named a 2012 Yankee Editors’ Pick for “Best Base for Families.”

Where to Eat in Plymouth, MA

Leena’s kitchen.

This downtown dining destination specializes in farm-to-table cooking that spotlights seasonal ingredients from local producers. From beet salad to braised lamb, there’s a dish for every palate at this inviting and relaxing eatery.

KKATIE’S BURGER BAR

Sometimes you just really need a good burger, and that’s what you’ll get at “Kuh-Katie’s,” served fresh and prepared to order. With a full menu of burgers (plus other options), there’s plenty to choose from, but we suggest trying “The Plymouth Rock”: four quarter-pound patties stacked with cherrywood-smoked bacon, cheese, crispy onion rings, and “special sauce” on a grilled roll.

Built in 1792 by Josiah Cornish, the building that is now Rye Tavern was for years a popular inn, tavern, and stopping place for horse-drawn carriages. The tavern now has a new name, but it looks and feels much the same as it did centuries ago, with its preserved historic details and welcoming atmosphere.

THE NEW WORLD TAVERN

With 32 drafts on tap and more than 120 bottle selections, the New World has a beer to complement anything on its menu of hearty tavern food. Plus, it often hosts live entertainment, so stop by to grab a meal or just to enjoy some music while sipping a cold one. Named a 2015 Yankee Editors’ Pick for “Best Beer List.”

LOCAL YOLK COMPANY

If you’re all about a good breakfast, look no further than Local Yolk Company. The breakfast and lunch restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to provide made-from-scratch meals every day, from savory Southwestern frittatas to sweet cinnamon bun crepes.

DILLON’S LOCAL

There’s something about visiting the New England coast that can whet your appetite for a bowl of clam chowder. You can find it — as well as everything from comfort food to cocktails — at Dillon’s Local, overseen by a chef who is also a Plymouth native.

Have you ever been to Plymouth, MA? Tell us about it!

This post was first published in 2017 and has been updated. 

SEE MORE: Plimoth Patuxet  | New England Living History Museum The Plymouth Grist Mill | Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, MA Plymouth Rock | Facts and Trivia

Cathryn McCann

As Digital Assistant Editor, Cathryn writes, manages, and promotes content for NewEngland.com and its social media channels. Prior to this role, she lived and worked on Martha’s Vineyard as a newspaper reporter, covering everything from environmental issues and education to crime and politics. Originally from New Hampshire, Cathryn spends most of her time out of the office on the trails, slopes, or by the water.

The Best Time to Visit Plymouth, MA, US for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Plymouth for ideal weather are

May 14th to October 7th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Plymouth Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Plymouth Travel Info

Weather in plymouth.

Average temperatures in Plymouth vary drastically. Considering humidity, temperatures feel cold for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a chance of rain or snow throughout most of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 26th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Plymouth, the hottest months are July, August, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally mid July where highs are regularly around 84.9°F (29.4°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 66°F (18.9°C) at night.

Plymouth Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Plymouth temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Plymouth Perceived Temperature (F)

Plymouth perceived temperature (c), average plymouth temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Plymouth are August, September, and then May. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around mid August. For example, on the week of August 13th there is 1 day of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late February and early March with an average of 3 days of significant precipitation the week of February 26th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Plymouth.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Plymouth (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Plymouth has some high humidity months, with other comfortably humid months. The least humid month is February (53.5% relative humidity), and the most humid month is September (67.3%).

Wind in Plymouth is usually calm . The windiest month is March, followed by February and April. March’s average wind speed of around 7.9 knots (9 MPH or 14.6 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early March where average top sustained speeds reach 15.8 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Plymouth.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to plymouth.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for the United States; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Dec 04, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Plymouth, MA, US is July, followed by August and June. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Plymouth in December. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall plymouth travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderately cold. Highs range from 74.8°F (23.8°C) and 40.2°F (4.6°C) with far warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 6 to 8 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see the least precipitation with 5 to 7 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Plymouth, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 79.4°F (26.3°C) and 50.2°F (10.1°C), which will feel chilly given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 6 to 8 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is far too cold this time of year in Plymouth to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 47.1°F (8.4°C) and 34.6°F (1.4°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 6 to 9 times per month. These times of year are the slowest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › the United States › Plymouth, MA, US

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New England Wanderlust

Massachusetts  ·  February 1, 2024

Is Plymouth, MA Worth Visiting In 2024?

Known for its history, and that famous rock 😉, I often get asked if Plymouth, MA is worth visiting when there are so many places along the Massachusetts coast to explore. And if you’ve been wondering the same thing, you’ve come to the right place! This post is all about Plymouth, and my honest answer on if this coastal town is worth your time.

And with that, let’s get started!

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So, Is Plymouth, MA Worth Visiting?

Yes! I often see people referring to Plymouth as “so much more than a rock,” and I couldn’t agree more. If you’re hoping there’s more to Plymouth than a rock, then you’re in luck because there are many more things to do in this coastal New England town.

While the history and museums in Plymouth are wonderful, there’s also great shopping, fantastic dining, lovely coastal scenery, wineries, breweries, one of the best spas in New England, gardens, and lots more to check out to make it worth your time.

Is Plymouth Rock Worth Visiting?

So … it really is just a rock. That said, it’s pretty much in the center of town, so you’re bound to run into it at some point, meaning you won’t have to go out of your way to see it.

So, what is Plymouth Rock, exactly? Well, it’s a rock that signifies the Pilgrims’ landing in Plymouth. But, here’s the thing: there’s not really any evidence or documentation that the Pilgrims actually step foot or touched the rock. It became known as the Pilgrims’ stepping-stone to the New World when a man in his 90s, named Thomas Faunce, said that his father, who was on the Mayflower, claimed the rock served as the actual landing area when they arrived in Plymouth. But really, it’s more so just an emblem of the town’s significant history since no one knows if Mr. Faunce was of sound mind when telling that story (or, if that story even ever happened, since his claim was made sometime in the 1770s).

Personally, I did find it to be rather … underwhelming 😂 And I think that has a lot to do with the fact that it tops everyone’s list of things to do in Plymouth, so the hype surrounding it is always substantial. The historical significance is, of course, absolutely impressive, but the rock itself isn’t that big or especially exciting to look at.

The other thing to note about it is it’s housed inside a giant memorial now, so you can’t get too close to it, either. While you’ll be able to get a good look at it, you won’t be able to touch it, or walk on it – which is actually a good thing anyway, since we all want it to last for many more years to come.

Lastly, it may be surprising to know that Plymouth Rock is actually quite small. It’s often referred to as a boulder, and while it may technically qualify as a boulder, it doesn’t feel overly significant in size once you see it in person. That may be another reason people are often disappointed when seeing it.

So, is it actually worth visiting? Yes, but only because you literally pass by it while seeing everything else in Plymouth. If it was out of the way, I would say for most people, it’s probably not worth it. It is a fun New England bucket list item to check off your list, though!

Top Things To Do In Plymouth, MA Worth Seeing

1. plimoth patuxet museums.

Definitely one of the most popular things to do that makes Plymouth, MA worth visiting is the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, which is the perfect showcase of the town’s history and heritage.

This museum is spread out over the town, and encompasses five exhibits total, three of which are outdoors. The two most popular ones to visit are the 17th Century English Village, and the Mayflower II. The English Village is a recreation of an authentic Pilgrim settlement, and also features actors playing the part, and this is where you really feel like you’ve been transported back in time. It’s also the exhibit that’s often used in stock photos of Plymouth.

The Mayflower II is also a really fun exhibit to experience, as it’s an exact replica of the ship the Pilgrims sailed to the New World on. With your admission ticket, you can climb aboard the ship, and feel what it must have been like for the Pilgrims during their voyage. However, you can also see the outside of the ship from different places around the Pilgrim Memorial State Park area. Without a ticket to enter the ship, you’re also able to get up close to part of it, if you’re just curious for a quick snapshot of what it looks like. To climb aboard and see in the side, you’ll need a ticket.

The Grist Mill is another popular exhibit, where you get an inside look into the still-working mill. On Saturdays, they even do demonstrations with the mill, and during any visit, you can purchase freshly-ground grains to take home with you. Your admission to the exhibit allows you interior access, but you can also get a good look at the mill from outside for free. The Grist Mill is located very close to Jenney Park, which is a relaxing place to experience when in the area.

→ Click here to check out tickets for the Plimoth Patuxet Museums

It’s good to know that not all the exhibits are walkable to each other , so you’ll need a car, depending on which ones you plan to see, and what your itinerary is like.

Curious about the different spelling? Yeah, I was, too! The Plimoth spelling is simply the traditional way the town was spelled during its earliest years. The museum kept this spelling as a way to differentiate between the town, Plymouth, and the museum.

2. The Charming Downtown & Shops

There are lots of places to enjoy traditional, New England style architecture around Plymouth, and one of the best ways to do that is simply stroll around downtown. But not only that, downtown is filled with charming shops and wonderful restaurants, too.

If you’re along the waterfront, there are lots of great shopping opportunities on Water Street, including the cute little Shoppes at Village Landing. This is where you’ll find Fedele’s Chocolates and some lovely gift shops. Nearby on Water Street, you’ll see shops lining the road, too.

Also, be sure to meander up to Main Street by way of Leyden Street (which I talk about later 😉). Here, you’ll find an idyllic street with shops, cafés, and restaurants that are worth exploring!

3. The Beaches

Since Plymouth is a coastal town, we have to talk about the beaches! Now, I will say, Plymouth doesn’t have the most beautiful beaches in New England, but they’re still definitely worth visiting when in town. The reason I say this is because most of the beaches tend to be pretty rocky, especially at high tide, so they’re not the best for long walks, or laying around in the sand. However, at low tide, they can be really nice!

The best and most popular beach to visit in Plymouth is Long Beach . This 3-mile long barrier beach is located about a 10-15 minute drive outside of downtown, and most people choose to visit this one because it’s the most scenic, and also, it’s open to the public. I recommend visiting at low-tide if you want to walk a ways along the shoreline, as there are definitely rocks along the coastline at high tide. But at low tide, it’s much more enjoyable.

If you happen to be renting a house nearby, you may also get access to White Horse Beach , but this beach is for residents and renters only.

You can also head over to Ellisville Harbor State Park , which offers both swimming and nature trails.

4. Brewster Gardens

Located just a few steps from the Mayflower II and Plymouth Rock, is the Brewster Gardens. At just about 3 acres, this park is home to beautiful plants and flowers, trees, brooks, benches, and ponds, and is such a beautiful place to enjoy nature. While it’s fairly small, it packs in a lot of wonderful ways to enjoy the area.

The Pilgrims actually built many of their homes near what is now Brewster Gardens, as the fresh water supply here was especially beneficial. Because it brings history and modern day together, it’s such a special place to visit when you’re in town.

5. Jenney Pond Park

Right by the historic Grist Mill, which is part of the Plimoth Patuxet Museum, you’ll find Jenney Park, which I recommend budgeting a few extra minutes for if you visit the Grist Mill. While not the most extensive park, it’s very charming and quaint, and especially beautiful in the fall season surrounded by foliage.

It also tends to be less crowded than the main downtown area, even though it’s just a 10-15 minute walk away. There’s a scenic bridge that makes for great photos, and you can peacefully walk around the pond to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Pro Tip : The parking lot at Jenney Pond is free for an unlimited amount of time, so this is a good place to park if you’re coming in for the day, and want to explore downtown on foot.

6. Pilgrim Memorial State Park

One of the biggest reasons Plymouth, MA is worth visiting is because of Pilgrim Memorial State Park, which is centrally-located in the downtown and waterfront areas. It’s here that you’ll find the Mayflower II docked, Pilgrim Rock, walking trails along the water, and scenic views of the harbor.

The focal point of the park is, as mentioned, Pilgrim Rock, which is now housed and protected inside an open-air Memorial. To get from one side of the park to the other, you’ll need to walk right by the Memorial, so this is when you’ll want to take a look at Pilgrim Rock.

But honestly, I think everything else about the park is what makes it so great. It’s a beautiful waterfront area that makes it easy to stroll around, enjoy the views, and even have a picnic or relax for a while on one of the benches. This is one of my personal favorite areas of Plymouth.

You also get a pretty good view of the Mayflower II from most points around the park, which makes for fun photos!

7. Leyden Street

One of the most historic streets in New England is Leyden Street, which can be found within walking distance of Pilgrim Memorial State Park. Not only does it have historical significance, it’s also one of the most beautiful streets in town, so it’s absolutely worth walking down during your visit!

Said to be the oldest continually inhabited street in New England, it dates back to the Pilgrim’s landing in 1620. It’s also since gone through a few name changes, as it was originally called First Street when the Pilgrims settled in the area. It wasn’t officially named Leyden Street until 1823, in recognition of the town in Holland that originally offered a place of refuge during the persecution that ultimately led to the Pilgrims’ voyage to the U.S.

Now, Leyden Street is also said to be the oldest continually used streets in the entire country, as modern vehicle traffic is allowed on the street. It’s also especially photogenic, and lined with historic houses, and is a really cool street to walk down and feel the history.

8. Night Ghost Tour

Where there’s lots of history, there’s always ghost stories, and Plymouth has lots of them, as you can imagine! If spooky stories about the past, and ghost sightings are up your alley, you’ll want to book a night ghost tour during your visit.

Dead of the Night Ghost Tours takes visitors on a two hour lantern-guided tour through town, and you’ll get the inside scoop on all the hair-raising history, ghost sighting, and strange paranormal activity that’s taken place in Plymouth over the years.

9. Whale Watching

For those who don’t care for ghosts and spooky stories, then a whale watch tour is definitely going to be more your speed! Massachusetts is one of the best places in the U.S. for whale watching tours, and departing from Plymouth is no exception.

Massachusetts is a world-class whale watching destination primarily due to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is known for having lots of active marine life, including whales.

The best tour to check out during your visit is with Captain John Boats . This tour sets sail to Cape Cod Bay and Stellwagen Bank, so your chance of spotting a whale is very high. The most common types of whales to see in the area are humpback, minke, pilot, and finback, and tours last about 3.5-4 hours.

It’s good to know that whale watching in New England takes place from April/May – October, so if this is high on your list, you’ll want to visit around this time.

10. Head Out For A Different Kind Of Cruise

Whale watches aren’t the only way to get out on the water in Plymouth! If you’re short on time, or aren’t interested in a whale watch tour, there are some more options that are wonderful, which are Lobster Tales, and Pilgrim Belle Cruises.

Lobster Tales is an awesome choice with tons of different options, including ice cream cruises, lobstering cruises, sunset sails, and fun pirate-themes cruises for the kids.

The Pilgrim Belle is a traditional paddlewheel boat that also offers different options, including scenic harbor cruises, and sunset sails.

11. Pilgrim Hall Museum

If you want an inside look into what life was like for the Pilgrims, you’ll want to head to Pilgrim Hall Museum, which is home to an extensive collection of artifacts and artwork from the first settlements. You’ll get to see actual Pilgrim possessions while reading stories that bring history to life.

Also at the museum, you’ll learn about the Wampanoag, and the history of these Indigenous People inhabiting the land for thousands of years before the Pilgrims even arrived.

The museum does require paid admission to visit, and tickets can be purchased online in advance.

12. The Plymouth Jetty

Another one of my personal favorite spots in Plymouth is the jetty. Located at Plymouth Harbor, and just a 10-minute or so walk from the Pilgrim Memorial State Park area, the jetty is the perfect place to enjoy the waterfront, and views of the town from a different perspective.

The scenic wooden bridge turns into a long breakwater that you can walk out onto, and from there, it’s pretty cool to see the town from out on the water, which is especially fun if you’re not able to take a boat tour during your visit.

You’re likely to also see fishing boats coming and going from the harbor for a classic New England experience.

13. National Monument To The Forefathers

Just under a mile outside of town is the National Monument to the Forefathers, and this is a beautiful statue to see while in town. It doesn’t require a lot of time, but it’s worth seeing just to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into its creation.

Completed in 1888, the statue is dedicated to the Pilgrims and stands 150 feet tall, which is rather impressive to see in person.

14. Burial Hill

For another dose of history, head to Burial Hill Cemetery, which is a short walk Main Street. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Burial Hill is the final resting place of several Pilgrims.

The oldest marked grave here dates back to 1680, and it’s very interesting to walk around and see all the tombstones from the 17th and 18th century.

It’s easy to visit Burial Hill from downtown, and if you walk through the cemetery from Main Street, it connects you directly to the old Grist Mill.

15. Sparrow House

Lastly for historic sites in Plymouth, you’ll want to consider visiting Sparrow House, which is a very short walk from the Grist Mill. Built in 1640, it’s the oldest house in Plymouth, and now serves as a museum, art gallery, and artisan gift shop.

Visitors can tour the inside of the house for a small fee, but many people come here for the wonderful gift shop attached to the house. Inside the shop, you’ll find all kinds of unique, hand-crafted pieces made in the U.S., which is the perfect place to find a beautiful gift or souvenir to take home.

16. The Breweries & Wineries

One of the most fun things to do in Plymouth, MA is visit the local breweries and wineries! There are quite a few great places to check out while in town, so this is definitely something you’ll want to have on your radar while you plan out your itinerary.

Some breweries to check out in Plymouth are Independent Fermentations Brewing (which also makes Kombucha!) and Mayflower Brewing Company.

Some wineries to check out in Plymouth are Plymouth Bay Winery (which is right downtown on Water Street) and 1620 Winery.

17. Thanksgiving, Of Course!

I mean, I can’t talk about Plymouth and not mention Thanksgiving, right? The Thanksgiving festivities are one of the biggest reasons Plymouth, MA is worth visiting in November. It was the birthplace of the holiday, after all! And no surprise here, the town celebrates Thanksgiving in many ways throughout the month of November.

The Saturday before Thanksgiving Day, there’s a historically accurate parade through town that also celebrates the local community. There’s also a canned food drive that takes place during the parade, so be sure to donate if you can!

In November, you’ll also get to experience an authentic Thanksgiving feast surrounded by Pilgrims (well, actors portraying Pilgrims, of course 😉). During this Story of Thanksgiving dinner experience at the Plimoth Patuxet Museum, enjoy historic performances and stories while you dine on a traditional Thanksgiving meal. This experience also includes 2-day admission to the museum, so you can spend your Thanksgiving holiday learning as much about the early settlers as you can!

Also in November, there are special concerts at Memorial Hall , a Harvest Market which features local produce and artisan-made crafts (the perfect place to stock up for Thanksgiving dinner if you’re planning to cook at home!), as well as a waterfront festival with wine and beer gardens, children’s activities, food trucks, and a historic village.

Where To Stay In Plymouth, MA

Mirbeau Inn & Spa : Not only is this one of the top resorts and spas in New England , it’s definitely the most luxurious place to stay in Plymouth. It’s located outside of downtown, so you will need to drive to get to most attractions, but it’s the perfect sanctuary to come back to after a day of exploring. You’ll feel transported to the French countryside, and also have an awesome spa and wonderful dining on-site.

Psst! Need more convincing? I have a whole post on my experiences with Mirbeau Inn & Spa in Plymouth, if you want more information 😉

→ Click here to check rates & availability at Mirbeau Inn & Spa

Thomas Sea Suites : A beautiful group of condos to choose from, these are perfect to feel more like a local during your visit, as well as if you want to stay at a place that’s modern, decorated with an elevated coastal vibe, and stay within walking distance to everything downtown. These also come with full kitchens.

→ Click here to check rates & availability at the Thomas Sea Suites condos

Hotel 1620 : Perfect for those who also want to stay downtown within walking distance to everything, this hotel offers lots of room options to choose from, an indoor pool and children’s splash pad, and is located right at the cute little Village Landing Marketplace for easy shopping.

→ Click here to check rates & availability for the Hotel 1620

How Many Days Do You Need In Plymouth?

Plymouth can be done as a day trip, weekend getaway, or a longer vacation – it really just depends on your preference!

If you’re a big history buff, and you’re excited to see all the historical sites and museums, I think a weekend or longer is a good idea since there’s so much history to take in.

If you’re just looking to hit up the top sites, like explore downtown, hop aboard the Mayflower II, and maybe see a beach, you can do this all in a day as most of Plymouth is walkable.

For a balance between these two options and not feel super rushed on your trip, two days, or a weekend, is perfect.

How To Spend A Day In Plymouth, MA

With even just a day, you can cover a lot of ground since many of Plymouth’s best things to see are located within walking distance of one another in the downtown area. Here’s how I suggest you plan your day trip:

Arrival & Morning

✓ Start along the waterfront, and visit the Jetty before heading over to Pilgrim Memorial State Park. The walk between these two locations is about 10 minutes, or just under a half mile. You can also stop at some of the shops on Water Street, which is the street you’ll walk on to get to the park.

If you want to visit either the 17th Century English Village and Historic Patuxet Homesite exhibits at the Plimoth Patuxet Museum, I would suggest you start there instead.

✓ Explore Pilgrim Memorial State Park, and visit the Mayflower II if that interests you. This is a great area to enjoy the waterfront scenery.

✓ In this area, you’ll pass by Plymouth Rock, so pop over to take a peek!

Early Afternoon

✓ Grab lunch downtown, and head to Main Street for shopping.

✓ Walk up to Burial Hill, through the cemetery, and find your way to over to the historic Grist Mill, Jenney Pond, and the Sparrow House.

✓ Take the same route you took earlier, and head back to downtown, and visit the Brewster Gardens on your way.

✓ Stop at Plymouth Bay Winery for a tasting, if that interests you.

✓ Grab dinner, and if time allows, take a sunset stroll on the beach before leaving.

Is Plymouth, MA Walkable?

For the most part, Plymouth is very walkable, but there are some places that you will need to drive to during your trip, so a car is recommended.

The downtown area of Plymouth is the most walkable part of town, and here, you’ll be able to walk to the best shopping areas, many restaurants, a winery, the Mayflower II, waterfront park, Plymouth Rock, Leyden Street, Brewster Gardens, Burial Hill Cemetery, the grist mill, and the jetty. All these attractions are within .6 miles of each other, with most of them being a 10-minute walk or less.

The attractions you’ll need to drive to are the the 17th Century English Village and Historic Patuxet Homesite exhibits at the Plimoth Patuxet Museum, the beaches, the National Monument To The Forefathers, and Mirbeau Inn & Spa if you choose to pamper yourself, which I highly recommend, of course!

How To Get From Boston To Plymouth

The best, fastest, and easiest way to get from Boston to Plymouth is to drive, as the drive takes just under 1 hour, depending on traffic.

There is no direct train or ferry service between Boston and Plymouth, either. There is a train option that takes you to nearby Kingston, but you’ll then need to take a 10-minute taxi or Uber ride to Plymouth.

The Plymouth & Brockton bus line offers service between Boston and Plymouth, and takes about 1 hour.

Best Time Of Year To Visit Plymouth

Plymouth is really great year-round, but the most popular times to visit are in the summer and in November for the Thanksgiving festivities. Because Plymouth is home to beaches, coastline, and boat tours, it makes for a popular place for a summer vacation. And with the Thanksgiving Day parade, as well as an authentic Thanksgiving dinner event with actors portraying Pilgrims, it’s the top destination to visit in New England for the holiday.

To avoid the crowds, the best time to visit Plymouth is spring or fall, with May, June, September, and October being great months to plan a trip. Plymouth is also one of the few destinations in New England that experiences fall foliage late in the season, and it often peaks in early to mid November. If you want to visit New England later in the fall season, and will miss peak foliage elsewhere, this is a great place to check out.

Winter is the off-season in Plymouth, and while you’ll find some really nice hotel rates and the fewest crowds, it’s good to know that some places will be closed in the winter months, including the Plimoth Patuxet Museum and its exhibits, boat tours, and Pilgrim Hall Museum. However, many places are still open, and it’s rather nice to experience the town without the crowds for a peaceful getaway.

Is Plymouth Part Of Cape Cod?

No, Plymouth is not part of Cape Cod, but it’s easy to see why some may think that because it’s one of the last towns you pass through on your way to the Cape. Plymouth is part of the South Shore region of Massachusetts, but is not part of the Cape Cod peninsula.

Plymouth is only about 30 minutes to the border of Cape Cod, though, making it very easily accessible when visiting this area.

What Is Plymouth, MA Known For?

Plymouth, Massachusetts is most known for being the landing site of the Pilgrims when they arrived to the New World on the Mayflower in 1620. However, it’s good to know that the first landing location was actually in Provincetown, MA, before they decided to sail over to, and officially settle, in Plymouth.

Plymouth is also known as “America’s Hometown,” as well as for its Thanksgiving celebrations in November.

Wait, So The Pilgrims Didn’t First Land In Plymouth?

Nope! When they came over on the Mayflower, they first landed in Provincetown on Cape Cod, which is the very tip of Massachusetts when looking at it on a map. They stayed for about 67 days, and decided to leave because the land wasn’t suitable for farming to create a sustainable lifestyle. After leaving Provincetown, they landed at Plymouth Rock, and that’s where they began creating their new life, and why Plymouth is known as the landing place of the Pilgrims.

More posts you may find helpful:

• Fall In Massachusetts: Where To Go & What To Do
• Ultimate Cape Cod Day Trip Guide + Itineraries
• Visiting Massachusetts In The Winter
• New England In November
• Thanksgiving In New England

That’s A Wrap On If Plymouth, MA Is Worth Visiting

And there you have it! The inside scoop on whether Plymouth, MA is worth visiting on your next trip to the East Coast. Just remember, it’s “so much more than a rock!” If you’re looking for a cute coastal town with great shopping, lovely scenery, cool things to do, and, of course … history, Plymouth should be on your radar. Happy planning!

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Massachusetts (MA) » 15 Best Things to Do in Plymouth (MA)

15 Best Things to Do in Plymouth (MA)

By a natural harbor on the South Shore, Plymouth is the place where the Pilgrims disembarked from the Mayflower in 1620.

You can grapple with this world-changing history at a multitude of attractions and landmarks, from living history at Plimoth Patuxet to the exceptional Pilgrim Hall Museum, where the personal possessions of several Pilgrims have been preserved.

In “America’s Hometown” you’ll get a clear picture of who the Pilgrims were, how they lived and what they stood for, while understanding the Native American Wampanoag tribe, on whose assistance the early colonists depended.

As well as that momentous history, Plymouth has many of the things that you want from a New England coastal town, like a pretty downtown area, marvelous ocean views and inviting beaches.

1. Pilgrim Hall Museum

A trove of Pilgrim artifacts, the Pilgrim Hall Museum is the oldest continuously operating public museum in the United States.

Opened in 1824 and with a solemn Green Revival main building composed of Quincy granite, this attraction is the logical starting point in Plymouth.

There’s an unparalleled amount of contemporaneous Pilgrim items to uncover here, helping you get a sense of the crossing and life in the early colony.

Among the most important pieces are the turned chair of the colony’s spiritual leader, William Brewster, a bible belonging to governor William Bradford and a cradle brought by Mayflower passenger and expectant mother Susanna White.

Also remarkable is a painting of Edward Winslow from 1651, the only surviving portrait of a Pilgrim painted from life. Central to the exhibit is the story of the Wampanoag, the indigenous people who were here for millennia before the Mayflower arrived, and present today.

2. Plimoth Patuxet

There’s a cluster of living history museums around Plymouth, under the umbrella, Plimoth Patuxet.

The main location is in the east of the town by the Eel River, where you can visit the recreated 17th-century English Village, as well as Historic Patuxet, a settlement for the Wampanoag tribe.

The English Village recalls life in early Plymouth, featuring timber-framed homes, kitchen gardens and faithful reproductions of everyday objects from the periods.

Dedicated costumed reenactors open a window on the period, while interpreters are available to give you extra context.

At Historic Patuxet you can visit a wetu to understand the domestic and family lives in Wampanoag communities.

Outside you might see a craftsperson working on a mishoon (traditional canoe), while there’s often a dish being made in the cooking area, and a range of crops like squash, corn and beans growing in the garden.

3. The Plimoth Grist Mill

Also part of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums is a detailed and working reconstruction of the water-powered mill built on Town Brook by the Plymouth Colonists in 1636.

Run by John Jenney (1596-1644), this transformed life in Plymouth, automating a manual corn-grinding process that had been taught by the native Wampanoag.

Completed in 1970, the Plimoth Grist Mill is on the same site as the original mill (burned in 1837), and incorporates many historic elements, including millstones dating back 200 years, salvaged from a site in Pennsylvania.

A visit is educational, as you’ll get to know every step of the 17th-century corn milling process, with friendly staff explaining their jobs as they carry them out.

4. Plymouth Center

One of the most rewarding things to do in Plymouth is to do some exploring under your own steam, casting your gaze out over the Plymouth Bay and navigating the town’s historic streets.

And no street is more historic than Leyden Street, the first street plotted in Plymouth in 1620, and the oldest continuously inhabited street in the thirteen colonies.

This carries you up the slope to the Town Square, where the First Parish Church at the base of Burial Hill is a continuation of the original Pilgrim Church four centuries ago.

In the other direction, near the foot of Leyden Street is Cole’s Hill, site of the first cemetery for the Mayflower Pilgrims, now a public park littered with interesting monuments, overlooking the bay.

5. National Monument to the Forefathers

Commanding Plymouth from the southwest is the massive National Monument to the Forefathers.

At 81 feet tall, this is believed to be the largest solid granite monument in the country, and pays tribute to the ideals of the Pilgrims, as understood in the 19th century.

Represented by allegorical sculptures are the virtues Education, Law, Liberty and Morality, while rising from the very center is Faith, with her right hand pointing toward heaven.

The monument was first conceived in 1820 and was a long-term undertaking, completed in 1888 and dedicated in 1889. Get up close to see the list of the 51 people who came over on the Mayflower on the right and left panels.

6. Brewster Gardens

Flanking Town Brook in Plymouth Center is a sweet public park on what was the original garden plot granted to Elder William Brewster (1566–67-1644), the community leader.

This was a logical place for the Pilgrims to settle, thanks to the abundant freshwater and grasses along the banks providing building material.

You can keep this in mind as you wander the brookside nature trail through Brewster Gardens, leading from the mouth at Water St, upstream to the Plimoth Grist Mill.

The park was laid out in the 1920s and has an assortment of monuments to browse. One is the iconic Pilgrim Maiden Statue (1922) by Henry Hudson Kitson, dedicated to the intrepid spirit of the immigrant women.

7. Burial Hill

Any walking tour in Plymouth has to include the sharp climb to this early cemetery, with a stirring panorama of the coastline and townscape.

Given its prominence this hilltop was initially used as a fort, which also served as a meeting house and parish church. The burying ground was established here sometime during the 1620s, and the exact date is difficult to pinpoint as the first burials used wooden markers.

The earliest stone marker here dates to 1681 (Edward Gray), and you can track down the graves of several Mayflower passengers.

Part of the experience at Burial Hill is appreciating the early stone markers from the 17th and 18th century, considered invaluable works of early Euro American folk art.

8. Plymouth Rock

Along with the National Monument to the Forefathers the other element of the Pilgrim Memorial State Park is the glacial erratic boulder in the harbor, integral to the mythology of the Mayflower.

This rock is held as the disembarkation point of William Bradford and the Mayflower passengers—based on the recollection of one Thomas Faunce, son of an early colonist.

According to Faunce, several original Mayflower passengers told him this was the exact spot. He made that claim in 1741 at the age of 94, 121 years after the landing.

So whether you want to take it all with a pinch of salt, there’s no denying that the rock is imbued with a certain symbolism.

The boulder sits under a Doric portico, and you can make out the scar caused in 1774 when the town broke the rock into two, with one piece relocated to Town Square. After moving to Pilgrim Hall in 1834, this was finally reunited with the rest of the rock in 1880.

9. Mayflower II

In the mid-1950s an exact replica of the Mayflower was constructed as a tribute to the cooperation between the United Kingdom and the United States during WWII.

Using reconstructed blueprints, the project involved manual construction by English shipwrights, setting sail from Plymouth, Devon in April 1957 and arriving in Plymouth, Massachusetts two months later.

When we wrote this article, Mayflower II was berthed at State Pier in Pilgrim Memorial State Park, and visitable as a museum ship.

The four-masted vessel is 106 feet long and 25 feet wide, and you may wonder just how 102 people, including three pregnant women, endured a ten-week crossing in such a confined space.

10. The Jabez Howland House

A brief stroll along Sandwich St from Brewster Gardens will bring you to the only surviving house in Plymouth where Mayflower Pilgrims are known to have spent time.

This is the Jabez Howland House, built in 1667 by Jacob Mitchell, who was the son of Pilgrim Experience Mitchell.

The property was purchased by Jabez Howland, the son of Mayflower passengers John Howland and Elizabeth Tilley Howland, who remained here until 1680.

The house was a private residence until it was converted into a museum in 1912, and is endowed with period furniture and captivating 17th-century artifacts unearthed nearby at Rocky Nook in Kingston, MA.

11. Plymouth Long Beach

Near Plimoth Patuxet along Route 3A is the exit for the breathtaking barrier beach jutting out into Plymouth Bay for three miles.

Long Beach is patrolled by lifeguards May 28 through Labor Day, and if you come on a sunny day this could be the perfect break from Plymouth’s weighty historical pursuits.

Washed by knee-high waves (these can vary), the shore is mostly sandy, but also has some coarse gravel and a lot of large rocks, so water shoes will come in handy here.

Close to the exit sits Sandy’s, a hut serving South Shore favorites like lobster rolls, fried scallops and fried clams.

12. Nelson Memorial Beach Park

Arguably the best place in Plymouth just to stop and appreciate the ocean is this public park not far north of Plymouth Jetty.

The Nelson Memorial Beach Park has a small patch of coarse sandy shore, ideal for a walk or hanging out by the bay.

For kids the highlight has to be the state-of-the-art splash pad, installed in the 2010s and open throughout the summer.

There’s also a traditional playground, picnic tables, benches and a launch ramp for canoes and kayaks. Just behind is the North Plymouth Rail Trail, along a former branch of the Old Colony Railroad (1845), and continuing for 1.2 miles to the Cordage Park commercial area.

13. Plymouth Farmers’ Market

A fitting activity in a place like Plymouth is visiting a market where everything for sale is seasonal and locally sourced.

Outdoors on Thursday afternoons, mid-May through October, the Plymouth Farmers’ Market is held at Plimoth Patuxet and has an abundance of seasonal fresh produce, farm-raised meats, cheeses, honey, and delicious prepared foods.

Think wood oven pizza, homemade pies, artisanal toffee and frozen desserts made with seasonal produce.

There’s always live music while you shop, but also plenty of fun for children, with storytime via the Plymouth Public Library and face painting.

14. The Jenney Interpretive Center

On the other side of Town Brook from the Plimoth Grist Mill is The Jenney, which looks at the ongoing impact of the 51 Pilgrims on American life.

Inside you can pore over detailed exhibits studying the lives of the stories and beliefs of the people who arrived on the Mayflower, touching on topics like faith and family, but also slavery and abolition.

The Jenney is known for its interpretive walking tours, given by guides in period clothing. The most popular tour is a 90-minute walk around Plymouth, stopping at important locations like Plymouth Rock, Brewster Gardens and Plymouth Center, all colored with info about protagonists and important events some 400 years ago.

There’s also a guided walk for more context about the National Monument to the Forefathers.

15. Myles Standish State Forest

In Plymouth’s hinterland you can escape to an immense public recreation area, encompassing more than 12,000 acres of pitch pine and scrub oak forest.

Myles Standish State Forest is a water-rich landscape known for its ponds, with more than 20 ranging from 2 acres to 86 acres in size.

The forest’s four campgrounds are set on the banks of these water bodies, and swimming is available at College Pond in the summer months.

If you come with a bicycle, there are more than 15 miles of paved trails, with in-depth brochures and trail info available from Forest Headquarters by East Head Pond in Carver.

There’s also 13 miles of hiking trails and 35 miles of horse trails, with a designated horse camping area at Charge Pond.

15 Best Things to Do in Plymouth (MA):

• Pilgrim Hall Museum
• Plimoth Patuxet
• The Plimoth Grist Mill
• Plymouth Center
• National Monument to the Forefathers
• Brewster Gardens
• Burial Hill
• Plymouth Rock
• Mayflower II
• The Jabez Howland House
• Plymouth Long Beach
• Nelson Memorial Beach Park
• Plymouth Farmers’ Market
• The Jenney Interpretive Center
• Myles Standish State Forest

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See and experience all that plymouth county has to offer.

Plymouth County offers cranberry farms, beautiful nature walks and more. Within the county is Plymouth, MA, the home of Plymouth Rock, a universal symbol of America. It is where the Mayflower came ashore 400 years ago, bringing with it English pilgrims who helped found the nation. The town and county of Plymouth boasts some of the best whale watching, dining, shopping, and cultural activities in a quaint New England setting, much of it nestled along the seashore. It is a history lover’s paradise, a family friendly atmosphere, and easy walking as you take in breathtaking sunrises.

Plymouth Rock is known the world over as the rock the Mayflower Pilgrims stepped on in 1620 to disembark from their shallop onto land. Historians have argued since it was reported, in 1741, whether this is fact or fiction. Plymouth Historian Jim Baker says it could be true. Between the weather and the ice cold water, it may have saved the Pilgrims from wading to shore. Regardless of whether it is a true story or not, Plymouth Rock has become a foundational American symbol of religious freedom and civil liberty. It is also a symbol of immigration, the American spirit, and survival.

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Plymouth in the Fall – Top 7 Attractions

seeplymouth

Check out all the awesome events in Plymouth County this weekend! There`s something for everyone. 🙌 View the calendar through the link in our bio! #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #PlymouthEvents #SeePlymouth #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel ...

Hitting the links this spring? Make a tee time at today`s member spotlight, Crosswinds Golf Club (@golfcrosswinds)! ⛳ 🏌️ With 27 holes, the course boasts rolling fairways, large greens and varied tee options from 5,600 to over 7,100 yards. Enjoy challenging yet fun play with dramatic elevation changes, panoramic views and resort-style spacing between holes! 📍 424 Long Pond Rd, Plymouth 📸 @golfcrosswinds #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #VisitMA #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #Vacation #SpringGolf #Golfing #Golfers ...

April school vacation is finally here, and our members have a lineup of awesome events to keep your kids entertained all week long! ⤵️ @climb_capecod - Opening Day (April 12th) 🔹 The Adventure Park at Heritage Museums & Gardens consists of platforms installed in the trees and connected by various configurations of cable, wood, and rope to form bridges and zip lines! @starlandsportsplexandfun - April Break Shooters Shoot (April 15th, 19th) 🔹 Back by popular demand! This basketball clinic focuses on techniques and game drills for grades K-4. @pilgrim_hall_museum - April Kids Week (April 16th-19th) 🔹 Enjoy FREE museum admission with daily Treasure Hunts for all ages, plus special programs for young learners and families! @plimothpatuxet - Investigating Historic Waterways (April 18th) 🔹 Explore how historians and scientists preserve and protect the ecosystems that sustained 17th-century daily life in Patxuet and Plymouth Colony to the modern day. @thejenney - Homeschool Day at the Jenney (April 19th) 🔹Experience the first annual event Homeschool Day! A day created exclusively for homeschoolers featuring tours, scavenger hunts, crafts, music and more. @whalingmuseum - April School Vacation Week (April 14th-20th) 🔹 Enjoy fun and educational activities throughout the week including crafts, scavenger hunts and 3D theater experiences. #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #PlymouthEvents #SeePlymouth #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #AprilVacation #SchoolVacation ...

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? We`ve got you covered. Check out everything that is going on in Plymouth County! View the full events calendar through the link in our bio. #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #VisitMA #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #Vacation ...

In the mood for a delicious burger? Stop by today`s member spotlight, @kkatiesburgers in Plymouth! 🍔 Voted Best Burger in the South Shore four times and counting, KKatie’s has delighted burger enthusiasts with creations like The Rock—four quarter-pound patties layered with cherry wood smoked bacon, American cheese, crispy onion rings, and Katie’s special sauce—since 2010. 📍 9 Samoset Street, Plymouth 📸 @kkatiesburgers #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #VisitMA #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #Vacation #BurgerBar #Burgers #SouthShoreMA ...

We`re so excited for the Herring Festivals coming up in Plymouth and Middleborough! Don`t miss out on these days full of family-friendly activities including herring counts, art, games, live music and more. We`ll see you there! Middleborough Herring Run Festival 🔹 April 13th & 14th from 11 AM-4 PM Plymouth Herring Festival 🔹 April 20th from 10 AM-3 PM #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #Vacation #Spring #HerringFestival ...

The See Plymouth Waterfront Visitor Information Center is officially open! If you`re planning a Plymouth trip this weekend, swing by and say hello! Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to help you navigate your way around America`s Hometown. 📍 130 Water Street, Plymouth ⌚ Monday - Sunday | 9 AM - 5 PM #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #SouthShore ...

@spectacle.live presents Ben Folds: Paper Airplane Tour at Plymouth Memorial Hall on Saturday, July 13th at 8 PM! 🎶 Get your tickets! Available for purchase starting today at 10:00 AM through the link in our bio. #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #Concert #BenFolds #LiveMusic ...

Don`t miss out on all the fun events in Plymouth County this weekend! Swipe ➡️ to check it out. View the full calendar through the link in our bio. #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #PlymouthEvents #SeePlymouth #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel ...

Check out this week`s member spotlight: @fullercraft! Located on 22 acres of woodland on the shores of Upper Porter’s Pond, Fuller Craft provides picturesque views and an artful environment with experienced staff and museum educators. Admission to the Museum is FREE, with a suggested donation of $12. 📍 455 Oak Street, Brockton ⌚ Tuesday-Sunday, from 10 AM-5 PM #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #FullerCraftMuseum #BrocktonMA #SouthShore ...

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Visiting Plymouth, Massachusetts on a Boston Day Trip

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Are you interested in visiting Plymouth, MA? It’s an easy day trip from Boston that is filled with American history that takes you back to the time of the pilgrims. And, of course, there’s the historic Plymouth rock to see.

Cheryl Maguire offers tips for a one-day itinerary to Plymouth from Boston. Or make Plymouth part of your Massachusetts early American road trip . It’s an historic town that’s well worth a visit!

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How to visit Plymouth, Massachusetts

You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy all Plymouth, Massachusetts has to offer. Located 40 miles south of Boston, Plymouth is one of America’s first towns. It was named after Plymouth, Devon England due to the physical similarity.

The downtown area along the Plymouth Bay offers scenic water views while you shop or dine in one of the many restaurants . Be sure to check the calendar for special events such as the Plymouth Ice Festival, Art in the Park, concerts in Kellogg Park all summer long, Fall Festival and Santa’s Arrival.

Inspecting Plymouth Rock

Plymouth Rock is located in Pilgrim Memorial State Park , near the Mayflower II and the Brewster Gardens. The park has picturesque views of Plymouth Harbor and the Mayflower II.

Most people who see Plymouth Rock are disappointed with the small size, but it is still viewed by more than 1 million people per year. There isn’t any evidence Plymouth Rock was the actual stepping stone for the Pilgrims but it was identified for being the spot by Thomas Faunce whose father arrived in Plymouth on the original Mayflower.

Exploring Plimoth Plantation

Plimoth Plantation offers you a chance to experience life in the 17 th century . There is a recreation of an English village built by Pilgrims as well as a Wampanoag Homesite.

The Pilgrims are actors dressed in costumes and they speak with accents. The Pilgrims fully immerse themselves into their roles and will answer questions based on how their character would answer that they are impersonating. They use both documented facts about their character (a real historical person) along with general information about the time period.

The Wampanoag Homesite staff are not actors. They are either Wampanoag or from another Native Nation. They also will answer questions about their culture but from a present day perspective.

Some of the staff  demonstrate how to play an ancient tribal game hubbub which is still played today. Other staff reenact different types of cooking and food they ate.

You could easily spend an entire day talking to Pilgrims and Wampanoag people, wandering through the various refabricated homes and learning about the 17 th century history.

Visiting Mayflower II

Mayflower II is a part of Plimoth Plantation museum located in downtown Plymouth, about a 10 minute drive from the main location. The boat is a full-scale reproduction of the ship which brought the Pilgrims to Plymouth in 1620.

This replica was built in 1955-1956 in England and is an actual working ship that sailed to Plymouth, MA. Similar to the English village, there are actors aboard the ship to recreate the experience of the 17 th century and answer questions.

Stopping at Plimoth Grist Mill

Plimoth Grist Mill is also a part of Plimoth Plantation museum, located a short walk from the Mayflower II.  The mill is a replication of the original Jenney Grist Mill used by the Pilgrims in 1636 for grinding corn. It is powered by water.

Inside the museum you can grind corn and sift it to make cornmeal. There is a small water wheel to see how it works and you can interact with it.

Strolling through Brewster Gardens

Brewster Gardens is located outside of the Plimoth Grist Mill. It is a beautiful stroll through the gardens back to the waterfront area. The Town Brook stream runs throughout the garden and is used by the Grist Mill.

In the 17 th century the stream provided drinking water for the Pilgrims. The park contains a statue of The Pilgrim Maiden by Henry Hudson Kitson (1922) and The Immigrant Memorial by artist Barney Zeitz (2001) in honor of the Pilgrim settlers.

Boomer Travel Tip

Interested in checking out Plymouth Plantation? Check out a list of hotels in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Frequent asked questions

You can get a discounted Plimouth Plantation visitors pass from the library if you have a library card or know someone who does. Every year the Highland Foundation offers one Friday (date varies every year) when admission is free to everyone for Plimoth Planation, Mayflower II and Plimoth Grist Mill.

There are many significant historical buildings and museums to explore beyond Plymouth Plantation, Plymouth Rock and Mayflower II. If you have the time, Jenney Museum, Pilgrim Hall Museum, Brewster Gardens and Burial Hill are worth a visit.

You’re here so you might as well see it. However a quick look-see at the rock (no, the Pilgrim’s didn’t actually step on it) is all the time you need.

You can easily explore the area on a day trip from Boston. However history fans should allot more time for a thorough visit.

Summer months, June through August, offer the best weather, but they are also the most crowded. May or September are good alternatives.

Plymouth, located 40 miles south of Boston, is about a one hour drive.

There are plenty of Bed and Breakfast or hotels to stay in if you plan an overnight visit.

There are two public beaches, Plymouth Beach and White Horse Beach.

 While visiting the Boston area, here are two more off-the-beaten-path things to do:

• Explore the beautiful beaches of Hull
• Visit the Boston Harbor Islands

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How To Spend A Fantastic Day In Plymouth, Massachusetts

Sharon Odegaard

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• History and Culture
• Massachusetts
• United States

Plymouth spreads out along the coastline of Massachusetts and carries the label of “America’s Hometown.” Here, in 1620, the Mayflower made landfall, the sea-weary passengers stumbled off the ship, and soon the village of Plymouth took shape. After spending months tossed about on the waves of the Atlantic, the group was happy to come ashore, form a colony, and begin a new life.

Just a 45-minute drive south of Boston, the town of Plymouth is an ideal day trip. It’s also just a short drive from Cape Cod. In Plymouth, you can tour reproductions of the Mayflower and the first English settlement, called Plimoth Plantation. The daily life of the Native Americans, here long before the English, is on display at Patuxet. Add to your day a visit to a grist mill, a look at (tiny) Plymouth Rock, and sampling local beers, and you have lots of possibilities for enjoyment.

Pro Tip: If you time your visit for the fall, Plymouth will be showing off its splendid leaves of red and gold. And you can also go to a nearby cranberry bog as the berries are floated up to harvest. The red-colored bogs are an unforgettable sight.

Step Aboard The Mayflower

This full-size reproduction of the Mayflower is newly restored and recently re-docked in Plymouth Harbor. You’ll find the Mayflower at the State Pier in Pilgrim Memorial State Park in commemoration of the 400th anniversary of its arrival in New England. Step onboard this ship and experience firsthand what it was like to live in this confined space for weeks at sea.

This is a living history museum, with people dressed in period clothes and talking with you about their voyage. Be sure to strike up conversations as you move through the ship. You can learn about the mechanics of sailing the ship, as well as daily life onboard.

What struck me immediately was how small this vessel is. It must have been difficult for passengers to spend day after day in the dark confines below deck. The Mayflower picked up people at different ports in England, so some spent as long as nine months on the ship.

Allow about an hour at the Mayflower.

Pro Tip: I began my day here, then headed to Plimoth Plantation and Patuxet Museum, free to spend the remainder of the day, as there’s more to see there. Also, you will beat the crowds by going to the Mayflower early in the day.

Immerse Yourself In The Daily Life Of The Pilgrims At The Plimoth Plantation

Follow the signs and drive about three miles inland from the Mayflower to Plimoth Plantation . This recreation of the English settlers’ first village includes about a dozen buildings, gardens, fences, woodpiles, and livestock. Life in the 1600s is on display, and you can walk through it all. You meet living history guides of all ages who will tell you what they are doing and talk about life in the early days of the village.

The first village was located about three miles away, also on a hill above the water. Plimoth has been recreated using notes, journals, drawings, and archeology. The result brings colonial Plimoth vividly to life. You will feel you have traveled back in time. Interpreters will explain what they are eating for lunch or how they chopped wood for that big pile to prepare for winter. On my first visit, I went with my dad, and he helped build a fence. The wooden nails fascinated him. On my next visit, I watched a young man put on a roof as he explained the process to us.

Feel free to ask the costumed colonists anything about their lives. Nothing is off the table. Discuss religious views, healthcare, education and raising children, cooking, and how they get along with the Native Americans who live nearby. Also, take time to relax on a wooden bench and revel in the historic atmosphere.

Animal lovers will be pleased to know about the plantation’s Rare and Heritage Breeds Program. Many animals originally living here are no longer used in agriculture and are endangered. At Plimoth, these historic breeds are being saved. As you tour, you may see Milking Devon and Kerry cattle, Wiltshire Horned sheep, and San Clemente Island goats. Head for the Nye Barn to find out more.

You may wonder why the plantation spells its name different from the town, substituting “Plimoth” for “Plymouth.” In the 17th century, words were often spelled phonetically without consistency from document to document. Governor William Bradford wrote his history of the colony using “Plimoth,” so the administration of the historical site chose to use his version.

Learn About Wampanoag Culture At The Patuxet Museum

The outdoor Patuxet Museum , located along the banks of the Eel River, is adjacent to Plimoth Plantation and portrays the life of the native Wampanoag people. The Native people you meet here are planting crops, fishing, gathering wild herbs and berries for food, and fashioning reeds into mats and baskets. Homes in this village include the mat-covered wetu and a longer, bark-covered house with three fire pits inside. Food is cooked over an open fire using only the ingredients that were available in the 1600s.

Your experience here differs from Plimoth Plantation because the staff members are not playing a role. They are Native people, dressed in the deerskin style of the 17th century, but they speak from a present-day viewpoint. They will greet you and invite you inside a wetu or talk about what’s growing in the garden. You can learn about Wampanoag history, hear stories, and play a traditional game of hubbub. The Wampanoag People have lived in this region for more than 10,000 years, and they are pleased to share their culture with visitors.

Stop At The Visitor Center

The visitor center at Plimoth Plantation and Patuxet Museum offers museum shops that carry everything from books and toys and specialty foods to Native jewelry.

If you’ve worked up an appetite during your tours, the Plentiful Cafe features menu items adapted from both English colonial and Native cultures. Eat in the spacious restaurant or take your food to go and spread out a picnic on the lawn overlooking Cape Cod Bay.

Find Plymouth Rock

You’ve likely heard that famous Plymouth Rock can disappoint when you finally see it. Still, you must stop by this small boulder when you are in Plymouth. It’s legendary.

The rock became famous through oral history as the landing place of the English colonists. Early settlers would take their children to stand on the rock. Stories of the Mayflower voyage and landing here were imparted from generation to generation.

The rock became a symbol of liberty after the American Revolution. It’s fenced off for protection and awaiting your visit, just a few steps from the Mayflower.

It’s worth knowing that Plymouth is actually the second place the Mayflower landed after its historic voyage. The destination had been the mouth of the Hudson River. But, blown off course, the Mayflower landed far to the south. On November 9, 1620, passengers spied land at last after a long, tortuous voyage and docked at what is now Provincetown, Massachusetts, at the tip of Cape Cod. After a few days here, the Mayflower sailed across Cape Cod Bay to present-day Plymouth. And it was in Plymouth that the group settled.

Learn About Milling At The Plimoth Grist Mill

Mills were essential to an economy that grew corn, and Plymouth had a beautiful one. Plymouth’s Grist Mill is recreated to look as it did in 1636. This fully functional mill runs on water power from Town Brook. Two huge millstones grind corn. Tour the mill, then stop to buy stone-ground cornmeal at the shop.

Savor Local Cuisine (And Beer)

Plymouth is home to a local brewery that produces unique, high-quality ales and lagers. The Mayflower Brewing Company opened in 2007 and is dedicated to “celebrating the history and legacy of beer in America.” Founded by a descendant of John Alden, who was the beer barrel cooper on the Mayflower, this brewery makes traditional-style beers and serves them on the patio. Enjoy food from a variety of food trucks as you sip your lager.

For a delicious restaurant dinner, you can’t go wrong at Carmela’s Restaurant . The Viscariello family runs a successful Italian restaurant in Kingston, Massachusetts, and opened a second location in Plymouth. Fresh ingredients go into their pastas and flatbread pizzas. And gluten-free menu items are available.

Plymouth fans out from the water and climbs up gentle hillsides. The views and fresh sea air alone are worth a visit. Add to that the rich heritage of the area and the opportunities to travel back in time, and you have a fascinating place. You’ll be glad you spent a day reveling in the beauty and history of Plymouth.

Related Articles:

• 11 Best Small Towns To Visit In Massachusetts
• 10 Best Things To Do In Adorable Manchester-By-The-Sea, MA
• 11 Tips For Experiencing Boston’s Freedom Trail

As the owner of the travel blog, Exploring Our World , Sharon enjoys taking her readers on a journey with her. Articles often delve into the history of a place, and by adding in a generous number of photos, she inspires others to explore for themselves. In her early travels, she was most frustrated by coming back home and learning that she had missed a fascinating sight or a hidden gem. Now she helps travelers prepare for a trip by passing along travel tips, pointing out lesser known things to see, and alerting them to enjoyable day trips from major cities.

Her travel articles have been published by Stripes Europe Newsletter and the World War 2 Writing and Research Center. Whether she's discovering more about her hometown of San Diego, California or flying to faraway places, she enjoys sharing with travel lovers around the world.

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12 Unforgettable Things to Do in Plymouth for History Lovers

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Famously known as “America’s Hometown,” Plymouth, Massachusetts, is filled with carefully preserved history dating back to 1620 — the year that the Pilgrims stepped off the Mayflower and started new lives in a new country. 

If you love American history, there are tons of things to do in Plymouth, MA, that you’ll love. Plymouth is a fantastic day trip from Boston, Massachusetts , Newport, Rhode Island , or other nearby cities in New England. It shines in the warm summer or fall—especially leading up to Thanksgiving! 

Plymouth has tons of history to explore, but it’s a beautiful destination to visit, too. The town itself is extraordinarily lush, the homes are charming, and the views of the harbor and simply beautiful. Don’t skip these awesome things to do in Plymouth, MA, during your trip to this historic destination. 

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Awesome Things to Do in Plymouth, MA, for History Lovers

1. plimoth patuxet museums  .

If there’s one thing you have to do during your time in Plymouth, it’s visiting the  Plimoth Patuxet Museums . These interactive museums and attractions bring history from centuries past to life, and they’re one of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA! The Plimoth Patuxet Museums consist of four main attractions: the Historic Patuxet , English Village , Mayflower II , and the Plimoth Grist Mill . I’ll share a bit of information about each attraction below. 

I highly recommend starting your day in Plymouth at these museums, so you can spend as much time at each attraction as you’d like. I also recommend starting at the primary address, where the Historic Patuxet and 17 th -Century English Village are located, and then driving into town to tour the Plimoth Grist Mill and Mayflower II. 

If you want to secure your tickets in advance, you can get admission to both the Historic Patuxet and English Village and the Mayflower II or the Plimoth Grist Mill for $33.95 per person. Purchase tickets here .

Historic Patuxet  

The Historic Patuxet offers the opportunity for guests to learn about the Wampanoag people who have lived here for over 12,000 years — centuries before the Pilgrims arrived! At the Historic Patuxet, you’ll be able to tour a wetu (winter house), learn how to make a mishoon (canoe) with fire, and discover how the Wampanoag people grew, hunted, and cooked meals. 

You can also talk to museum staff to learn more about the Wampanoag people and how they lived in the early 1600s. 

17 th -Century English Village  

The 17 th -Century Village is a replica of the Plymouth Colony. You’ll see timber-framed houses, items that the Pilgrims may have owned and used, and livestock roaming around the village, like chickens and goats. 

The best part of this portion of the museum is the actors, dressed up as real people who inhabited Plymouth Colony. You can ask the “colonists” questions about their day-to-day life, their beliefs, where they came from, their families, and more, and they’ll respond with historically accurate information, but as if they were talking in the present. We spent some time talking to an actress playing Susanna White, the mother of Peregrine White, the first Pilgrim born on American soil. 

Thanksgiving Exhibit  

After leaving the English village and Patuxet (within walking distance on the same property), we walked back to the visitor’s center. Here, we found a fantastic exhibit about the history of Thanksgiving, from the first Thanksgiving, how Thanksgiving became a national holiday, and how Thanksgiving dinner has evolved over the centuries. 

Personally, I’d recommend walking through this small but informative exhibit. Since Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, I enjoyed learning more about its history. Out of all the things to do in Plymouth, MA, this is one thing I hadn’t known about previously but really loved!

Plimoth Grist Mill  

When you’ve finished at the two villages, you’ll need to drive roughly three miles into town to visit the next exhibit—the Plimoth Grist Mill. From the outside, you’ll be able to see how water from Town Brook provides power for the waterwheel, and from the inside, you can see how the power grinds the corn to make cornmeal. 

Although the Plimoth Grist Mill is a replica, you can still learn its history and how the Pilgrims used it in the 1600s. It is one of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA, if you have an interest in history!

Mayflower II  

The Mayflower II is a full-scale replica of the original ship that transported 102 Pilgrims from England to America. The Pilgrims left on a daring voyage bound for the “New World” on the Mayflower in 1620 from Plymouth, England (check out these things to do in Plymouth if you are spending some time “across the pond”), and they decided to name the spot where they landed — you guessed it — Plymouth!

Needless to say, touring the Mayflower II is one of the most popular things to do in Plymouth, MA. Unfortunately, we were unable to tour the ship due to a thunderstorm, but we did have the chance to see the ship in the harbor. If you have good weather, you’ll have to tour the boat and let me know what it’s like on board.

2. Howland House  

Did you know that the Jabez Howland House is the only existing structure in Plymouth where the Pilgrims actually spent time? I didn’t either until I visited. However, visiting this historic home is one of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA!

This home was built in 1667 and was sold by the original owner’s son, Jabez Howland, in 1680. It remained a private residence until it was purchased to become a museum in 1912. You can tour the Howland House from June – October, from Wednesday – Sunday, for $6 per adult. Since we were visiting Plymouth on Tuesday, we stopped for a quick photo! 

3. Plymouth Rock  

Ready for the truth? Plymouth Rock is underwhelming. Although I wouldn’t actually say it’s one of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA, it is one of the biggest attractions in the city, so it deserves a spot on this list.

Plymouth Rock is said to be the location where the Mayflower landed and the Pilgrims first set foot in America. Although the historical accuracy of Plymouth Rock is undoubtedly up for question, it’s still a symbolic location to visit nonetheless. You’ll probably only spend all of two minutes here, but it’s an easy place to visit (right next to Downtown Plymouth and the Mayflower II), and the views of Plymouth Harbor beyond the rock are pretty spectacular! 

4. National Monument to the Forefathers  

The National Monument to the Forefathers is a  massive  statue that stands at eighty-one feet, constructed in 1889 to honor the Pilgrims. Our visit to Plymouth was cut short because of a terrible thunderstorm, so we couldn’t make it to this spot. However, this statue looks impressive, and I wish we’d had the opportunity to visit it! 

5. Pilgrim Hall Museum  

Plymouth is home to the country’s oldest continuously-operated public museum — the Pilgrim Hall Museum .

The Pilgrim Hall Museum has been one of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA, ever since it opened in 1824. According to the museum’s website, they have William Bradford’s Bible, the only painted portrait of a Pilgrim, Susanna White’s baby cradle brought onto the Mayflower, William Brewster’s chair, and the earliest sampler made in America, embroidered by Myles Standish’s daughter, on display. 

The Pilgrim Hall Museum also focuses on the relationship between the Wampanoag people and the English colonists throughout history. You can purchase tickets to the museum for $15 per adult. Like the Howland House, Pilgrim Hall Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday. 

6. Coles Hill Burial Ground  

If you’re looking to pay your respects to the Pilgrims and others who lost their lives on the Mayflower, you may find yourself at Burial Hill — a graveyard on the National Register of Historic Places with headstones dating back to 1681. 

However, you may not realize that before the Pilgrims buried their dead at Burial Hill, they buried people at Cole’s Hill—located just above where the original settlement would have been. After three centuries, the bones from Cole’s Hill were placed in a large coffin that you can see during your visit to Plymouth. 

We visited Cole’s Hill instead of Burial Hill, and I can’t say I was disappointed. Cole’s Hill also features a statue of Massasoit, the leader of the Wampanoag people who befriended the Pilgrims, and the hill overlooks Plymouth Rock and Plymouth Harbor! 

7. Brewster Gardens  

When you’re ready to take a break from the museums, monuments, and memorials, head to Brewster Gardens. These beautiful, lush gardens were near the Pilgrims’ original settlements, but today, they’re a beautifully maintained park and one of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA.

Just steps away from Brewster Gardens is Leyden Street, the oldest continuously inhabited street in the United States. Take a walk down this historic street after strolling through the park to be transported back in time to when the Pilgrims used this street in 1620! 

8. Plymouth Farmers Market

The Plymouth Farmers Market provides fresh, local, and seasonal produce, meats, cheeses, and other items to residents and visitors in Plymouth. The market happens every Thursday at the Plymouth G Pub Entertainment Complex from 2:30 PM – 6 PM — rain or shine. If you are around on a Thursday, stop by the market for some local goodies.

9. Plymouth Ghost Tours

One of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA, at night is a spooky ghost tour. Dead of Night Ghost Tours is a popular ghost tour provider in Plymouth that offers a 90-minute Twilight Lantern Ghost Tour. You will be able to learn about the ghosts that roam the oldest streets in America and visit Burial Hill, where the Pilgrims are buried.

10. Whale Watching Cruise

Did you know that humpback whales, pilot whales, finback whales, pilot whales, and other whale species call the warm waters just off the coast of Plymouth home from May – October? If you will be in Plymouth, MA, during the summer or early fall, be sure to book a whale-watching boat ride with Captain John Boats to see these whales in action! It is one of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA, during the warmer months.

11. Myles Standish State Forest

Myles Standish State Forest, just outside Plymouth, is the perfect place to get outside during every season. Visitors can go hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, fishing, horseback riding, swimming, and snowmobiling in this 12,400-acre park, depending on the time of year. You can also bring your RV and camp on a site near one of the park’s four beautiful ponds!

12. Cranberry Harvest Celebration

If you are visiting Plymouth in October, take a day trip to Wareham, MA, for the Cranberry Harvest Festival . This old-fashioned family festival is a great way to see and learn about the cranberry harvest — a New England tradition. You can also enjoy live cooking demonstrations by culinary professionals, shop in the marketplace, and listen to live music. It is a fun event for the whole family and one of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA, if you are in town at the right time to enjoy it.

Where to Stay in Plymouth , MA 

Although I’d recommend visiting Plymouth as a day trip from a nearby city, like Boston or Newport, if you decide to extend your stay to experience more of the fun things to do in Plymouth, MA, here are some highly-rated hotel recommendations: 

• Holiday Inn Express – Plymouth, an IHG Hotel — These comfortable accommodations in the heart of Plymouth are surrounded by historical sites and many of the best things to do in Plymouth, MA.
• Best Western Plus Cold Spring — This quaint hotel offers scenic views of Cape Cod and is within walking distance of many historic things to do in Plymouth, MA.

Best Places to Eat in Plymouth , MA

Since we had to leave early due to the thunderstorm, we didn’t have the chance to dine in Plymouth. However, if you’re looking for a bite to eat, these restaurants are located near all of Plymouth’s main attractions, and they have excellent ratings, too! 

• Mamma Mia’s – Plymouth Waterfront — The food at this Italian restaurant is just as spectacular as the incredible views of Cape Cod Bay!
• Salt Restaurant —Enjoy the raw bar and entrees at this upscale restaurant in Plymouth, serving dumplings, noodles, soups, rice bowls, salads, and other tasty meals.
• Plymouth Bay Winery — Sample a glass of wine or flight at Plymouth Bay Winery. In addition to wine, this local company makes wine sauces, local honey, balsamic, olive oil, and more!
• Wood’s Seafood —It’s not a trip to New England without seafood, right? Try fresh seafood at this local spot on the water serving lobster, clams, scallops, lobster rolls, chowders, and other fish!

FAQs: Best Things to Do in Plymouth, MA

How do i spend a day in plymouth, ma.

During your day in Plymouth, MA, visit the Plimoth Patuxet Museum (including the Mayflower II and Plimoth Grist Mill), Plymouth Rock, the Pilgrim Hall Museum, and the Jabez Howland House. When you get hungry, grab a bit to eat at Mamma Mia’s on the Plymouth Waterfront and spend some time walking around downtown.

Is Plymouth, MA, worth visiting?

Yes, Plymouth is the oldest town in Massachusetts and one of the oldest towns in the United States, dating back to 1620. Plymouth, MA, is worth visiting for its rich history and ample collection of historical sites. It makes the perfect day trip or weekend trip from most nearby towns in New England, including Boston, Newport, and Portland.

What is Plymouth, MA, known for?

Plymouth, MA, is the home of Plymouth Rock, a landmark that identifies where the Mayflower and the Pilgrims landed in America from England in 1620. Because of its rich history, Plymouth, MA, had been endearingly nicknamed “America’s Hometown.”

Does Plymouth, MA, have a downtown?

Plymouth, MA, has a quaint downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and popular landmarks, like Plymouth Rock and Mayflower II. Downtown Plymouth is also home to two green spaces — Brewster Gardens and Burial Hill — for a lush change in scenery.

Step Into the Past with the Best Things to Do in Plymouth, MA  

Alright, history buffs. Which of these things to do in Plymouth, MA, would you be the first to check off your list? Regardless of which of these things to do in Plymouth, MA, you choose for your adventure, you are sure to walk away with a better knowledge of the history of the United States.

Save the “Best Things to Do in Plymouth, MA” for Later!

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About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

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18 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Plymouth, MA

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Plymouth, a small coastal town in Massachusetts, should be high on the list of places to visit for travelers who want to experience and savor American history where it took place. European settlers and Native Americans lived here in peace for about a half century, and it was here that the first written pact among ordinary people establishing a working democracy was signed. Plymouth is also a beautiful, small New England town, where visitors can enjoy the seacoast while getting a taste of its history.

Although it has been four centuries since the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock, their footprints are everywhere: in museums that display their possessions, in homes built by their descendants, in carved stones marking their burial places, in authentic replicas of their original homes, and even of the ship they arrived on.

The Plymouth Village Historic District includes part of the area of the Plymouth Colony's earliest settlement, as well as streets lined with houses from the late 17th and early 18th centuries. One home remains that was built from the wood and timbers of the Pilgrims' original defensive fort. Early homes are well kept, for Plymouth has always recognized and preserved its heritage.

Although Plymouth is close enough to be a good day trip from Boston , you may want more time to see its many historic sights. Plan your family's visit with our list of things to do in Plymouth.

See also: Where to Stay in Plymouth

1. Plimoth Patuxet Museums: 17th-Century English Village

2. patuxet homesite, 3. mayflower ii, 4. plymouth rock and pilgrim memorial state park, 5. national monument to the forefathers, 6. pilgrim hall museum, 7. burial hill, 8. plimoth grist mill, 9. brewster gardens and leyden street, 10. cruises, whale watching, and deep sea fishing, 11. jabez howland house, 12. sparrow house, 13. native plymouth tours, 14. mayflower society house, 15. hedge house museum, 16. w. russell blake planetarium, 17. take in a show at americana theatre company, 18. plymouth waterfront festival, where to stay in plymouth for sightseeing, plymouth, ma - climate chart.

Several historic sites are now under the umbrella of Plimoth Patuxet Museums (formerly known as Plimoth Plantation), the largest of which is the 17th-century English Village. On ground carefully chosen to reflect the topography of the Pilgrims' original settlement, and following the same street layout, the village authentically recreates the reality of those hard first years in the Plymouth Colony.

A rough plank stockade fence encloses the fortified community, which includes replicas of the two-story fort and the houses of the Reverend Brewster, Governor Bradford, Miles Standish, and other founders. The harsh and uncertain world they stepped into is portrayed in the rough buildings made of small trees plastered with a mixture of straw and mud.

More than just an attraction for sightseeing, Plimoth Patuxet Museums is an immersive experience, with houses to enter and period activities to see. This makes it one of the most popular things to do in Plymouth for families.

Address: 137 Warren Avenue, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Official site: www.plimoth.org

Outside the gates of the English Village, another of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums recreates the other half of the picture: that of the Native Americans that were here before Europeans arrived. Carefully reconstructed, a small Wampanoag settlement introduces native life and customs.

Interpreters here are Native Americans committed to the preservation of their ancestors' traditions and crafts. The site contains the only three-fire wetu (a family house sometimes referred to as a wigwam) in New England. This large commodious structure is built of saplings bent into arches and covered in overlapping layers of heavy tree bark.

Interpreters are busy with household tasks around the cooking fire, hollowing a log for a canoe, tending a garden of plants that were grown and used here in the 1600s. The Patuxet Homesite gives 21st-century travelers a realistic picture of two cultures living in peace, as they did for more than 50 years.

Within view of the hillside where the original Pilgrims' settlement stood, the tall masts of Mayflower II rise above her decks, a reminder of how this all started. Built in England during the early 1950s, the ship arrived in Plymouth in 1957 and today serves as an important way to relate the tale of European settlement in America. As well as can be determined, the ship is a full-scale replica of the original.

Visitors can climb aboard, examine the decks and between-decks areas, see how the ship is constructed, and try to imagine life aboard for the 102 settlers and their crew of 25 or 30 men. Interpreters tell about the journey during which two settlers died aboard ship, and two of the three pregnant women aboard gave birth before they settled in Plymouth. The ship is currently undergoing repairs, and restoration and will not be at its usual place until these are completed.

The ship underwent a multi-year restoration at Mystic Seaport in Connecticut, returning to its usual place at the Pilgrim Memorial State Park in the spring of 2020 to celebrate the 400 th anniversary of the original Mayflower's arrival.

The ship underwent a multi-year restoration at Mystic Seaport in Connecticut, returning in 2020 to celebrate the 400 th anniversary of the original Mayflower's arrival. It is now part of the Plimoth Pawtuxet Waterfront Exhibit at the Pilgrim Memorial State Park .

When the first settlers first stepped onto land here, they did so because of the protected bay. Early in the 18th century, nearly a century after the landing, one of their descendants identified a certain rock as the place of that first landing. The famed rock, which has been broken, moved, and put back together, now sits at the seashore protected under a classical columned canopy.

Despite its dubious status as the actual rock on which the Pilgrims set foot, Plymouth Rock is a treasured American icon, a symbol of the nation's beginnings.

Dedicated in 1889, the 81-foot-tall monument was commissioned by the Pilgrim Society to commemorate the founders of the Plymouth Colony and is thought to be the largest solid granite monument in the world. It was originally designed to be nearly twice the current height, almost as tall as the Statue of Liberty.

The inscription on the monument reads, "National Monument to the Forefathers. Erected by a grateful people in remembrance of their labors, sacrifices, and sufferings for the cause of civil and religious liberty." The monument is listed on the National Register of Historic Places .

Address: Allerton Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts

The Pilgrim Hall Museum puts the Pilgrims' story into perspective, and of all the places to visit in Plymouth, this is the only one with artifacts from the original Pilgrim settlers and their voyage. Filled with original items belonging to the Pilgrims, this tourist attraction offers well-presented interpretation about them, their motivation, and their lives.

Personal possessions include furniture, books, and belongings that bring them to life for visitors. Among these are Myles Standish's sword; Governor Bradford's bible; and the cradle of Peregrine White, who was born on the Mayflower. Also here are the remains of the Sparrow Hawk, a wooden ship wrecked off Cape Cod in 1626.

In the main hall, heroic-size paintings reflect how different generations of Americans have seen the Pilgrims', their challenges, and their relations with the Native Americans they encountered. The changing perceptions of these people are explored as are the ways in which Americans have interpreted them in the past.

Address: 75 Court Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Official site: www.pilgrimhall.org

From Old Town Square, the center of town life in the early days (the two churches there are descended from parishes established by the Pilgrims), a path leads up onto Burial Hill. A monument marks the location of the original fort, built to protect the settlement, and many of the original settlers are buried here, including Governor William Bradford.

Burial Hill is on the National Register of Historic Places . With views to the harbor below, it is a peaceful place to contemplate history.

Address: School Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Formerly known as the Jenney Grist Mill and now one of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums group, this is an authentic reproduction of the original mill built on this spot in 1636 to grind the grains grown by the settlers. The mill grinds corn today in the same way its predecessor did, its great 14-foot wheel powered by Town Brook.

On Fridays, you can watch the grinding wheels and giant gears in action as they grind organic corn. Along with watching the mill operate, visitors can join in hands-on activities from earlier eras that are especially popular with children.

Address: 6 Spring Lane, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Leyden Street was the first settlers' main street. Its lower end, near the shore, is now a park, covering much of the land of the earliest settlement. Monuments to the settlers were erected for the tercentenary celebrations of 1920. Town Brook, the settlers' earliest source of fresh water, still flows through the gardens and is bordered by a nature trail.

Coles Hill also served as the burial place of the many settlers who died during the first brutal year, and their recovered bones rest in a sarcophagus on the hill, along with a monumental statue of Massasoit, the Patuxent Chief with whom they made peace. Later buildings, from the 18th and 19th centuries, now line Leyden Street.

Plymouth Harbor is a busy place with plenty of things to do. Boats docked here offer a wide variety of cruises and excursions, from deep-sea fishing charters to ice-cream and pirate cruises for kids. You can even take a day or overnight trip by ferry to Provincetown , on Cape Cod, from here.

Especially popular are whale watching trips to Stellwagen Banks, one of the richest whale spotting areas on the east coast. It is not unusual for passengers on these cruises to see 20 or more whales at close range. Some boats have marine biologists on board to enrich the experience, but all have narration and staff to point out and identify sea life. If you want to see Plymouth from the water, you can board a paddle-wheeler for a 90-minute harbor cruise.

The only remaining house in Plymouth where Pilgrims lived, the Howland House began about 1667 as a two-story, timber-framed house built by Jabez Howland. He was the son of John Howland and his wife, Elizabeth Tilley Howland, both of whom arrived on the Mayflower. The elder Howlands spent winters here with their son and his family.

The house, which grew over the years from the original single-story, two-room dwelling, has been restored to its late 17th-century appearance and is furnished with period antiques; it also displays documents and artifacts from other Howland properties. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Address: 33 Sandwich Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Official site: www.pilgrimjohnhowlandsociety.org

The oldest house in Plymouth and one of the oldest wooden buildings in North America, the Richard Sparrow House dates from between 1636 and 1640. Richard Sparrow arrived from England with his family in 1633 and built a two-story house on the banks of Town Brook.

It would have been one of the grander homes of its time, with paneled walls and leaded glass windows. The house had additions over the years, but the old part remains intact and is open to visitors. The newer part of the house is a shop featuring fine American-made handcrafts.

Address: 42 Summer Street, Plymouth Massachusetts

Official site: www.sparrowhouse.com

To see Plymouth and its history from the perspective of a Native American, take a 90-minute walk with Native Plymouth Tours. The lively and engaging tour is led by a former interpreter and manager of the Wampanoag Indigenous Program at Plimoth Patuxet Museums (then Plimoth Plantation), who makes it clear that the tour is not just about the Wampanoag, but about the Pilgrims, the Mayflower, and more of Plymouth's history told from a Native perspective.

The tour takes visitors to the unmarked home site of Wampanoag leader, Hobbamock, and to the only American Indian statue in the region, while relating details of 17 th -century life. The historically accurate accounts of the lives of the Pilgrims and Wampanoags before and after the Pilgrim landing are based on years of research and work with local historians.

Built in the 1700s by Edward Winslow, grandson of pilgrim Edward Winslow, the Mayflower House has several centuries of interesting history to tell. Self-guided audio tours and those led by docents are offered from May through October, when you'll learn about the Winslows' experiences as Loyalists during the American Revolution, a side of that era that is rarely heard.

You'll also see the room where Ralph Waldo Emerson was married, and hear accounts from the house's World War II history when it was headquarters for the Red Cross.

Address: 4 Winslow Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Official site: www.themayflowersociety.org

One of Plymouth's best examples of Federal period architecture, Hedge House was built in 1809 by sea captain William Hammatt. It changed hands in 1830, when a three-story ell was added. When its site was chosen for building Memorial Hall, Hedge House was moved to its present location overlooking the harbor.

Its period rooms, which include unique octagonal rooms in the main house, demonstrate the elegance of 19 th -century life for the wealthy in Plymouth, with furniture, paintings, textiles, Chinese porcelain, and other artifacts from the China Trade. The gardens are planted with flowering perennials. Guided house tours are offered June through August.

Address: 126 Water Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts

The DigitalSky projection system in this full-dome planetarium projects images of the night sky across the entire dome interior and immerses visitors in sound, as well as the astronomic splendors. You can learn how to use a sky map and how to identify constellations, planets, bright stars, and learn about other wonders of the universe.

Public programs also include those designed especially for children, so if programs are offered during your stay in Plymouth, this is an especially good thing to do for families with kids who have grown tired of the historic attractions.

Address: 117 Long Pond Road Plymouth, Massachusetts

The year-round professional theater company began as a summer theater, then added an education feature, with classes for young people in acting, dancing, and theater production arts. Along with professional actors, the company includes top-line set designers and directors for a well-rounded theater experience.

Presenting a varied schedule that includes musicals, comedies, family shows, drama, and mysteries, the theater has, in recent seasons, performed Man of La Mancha , It's a Wonderful Life , The 39 Steps , Grease , Hound of the Baskervilles , Bye-bye Birdie , Alice in Wonderland , Clue , and more. Tickets are reasonably priced, and the theater is located close to restaurants, making it a good choice for a night out.

Address: 25 1/2 Court Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Official site: https://www.americanatheatre.org

Each August, the parks and streets along Plymouth's shore are filled with the colorful tents and activities of the Waterfront Festival. The historical area hosts more than 200 exhibitors, selling art, crafts, foods, and other locally made products. Restaurants set up booths, so visitors can sample their dishes.

There is a Duck Race in the pond at Brewster gardens in the afternoon, and from 11 to 2, a cruise-in car show is at Plimoth Grist Mill. Entertainment continues all day at the Plymouth Waterfront Amphitheater. The Waterfront Festival is the biggest annual event, and is attended by more than 30,000 people each year.

Address: 79 Water Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Official site: https://plymouthwaterfrontfestival.com

We recommend these highly rated hotels in Plymouth near the most popular tourist attractions and things to do:

Luxury Hotels:

• The four-star boutique Mirbeau Inn & Spa Plymouth looks like a French manor house sitting amid its beautiful gardens. Its 50 guest rooms have fireplaces, and the inn has a full-service spa.
• For a more intimate inn experience, by contrast the Inn at 38 Oak Bluff Circle sits atop the cliffs overlooking the bay. Breakfast is included, and there are family-sized rooms.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• John Carver Inn & Spa is a hit with the whole family for its spacious rooms and suites, and for the indoor pool with an 80-foot water slide, waterfalls, lap lanes, and whirlpool. Two restaurants and a full-service spa make this a small self-contained resort.
• The Hotel 1620 Plymouth Harbor is in a great location, with large rooms, a restaurant, indoor pool, and sauna.
• A short drive out of the center of town, the Hilton Garden Inn Plymouth has an indoor pool and hot tub, along with a fitness center.

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Where to Go from Plymouth: If you're interested in American history, there are many more places to visit in Massachusetts . In addition to the historic sights in Boston and Cambridge , you can easily visit historic Salem and Cape Ann on a day trip from Boston.

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Plymouth, Massachusetts in a Day- Itinerary

Exploring the mayflower pilgrims.

“All great & honourable actions are accompanied with great difficulties and must be both enterprised and overcome with answerable courages.  It was granted ye dangers were great, but not desperate; the difficulties were many, but not invincible.”

• William Bradford, Plymouth colony governor

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• March 2, 2020

We had one day to visit Plymouth, Massachusetts.  I’d I’d recommend another 1/2 day if you add Plimoth Patuxet (formerly Plimoth Plantation) , which we had to miss.  Just 40 miles Southeast of Boston, Plymouth is worth the drive (under an hour). A cozy seaside town with cute shops, colonial era homes, and rich, national history, visiting Plymouth was bucket list for us. To dive into exploring the Pilgrims & Plymouth colony, we took a walking tour, and visited Pilgrim sites & a museum to set the stage.  To read some of our surprising finds, check out my 10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Pilgrims post .   It’s a small town so things are close and parking is easy & often free, with metered or pay lots , too.  Leave early enough to hit all 8 stops by closings at 4:45p.  Or relax and enjoy Plymouth for a weekend!

The Pilgrims’ Voyage:

The Pilgrims came to America on the crowded Mayflower in the early winter of 1620. A ship about the length of a high school swimming pool & just ½ the width. Two levels, crammed with 102 people and the basics you need to build, not just a new life, but a new community with no way to buy or borrow necessary supplies. Furniture, kitchenware, small livestock, weapons, linens, food & water, seeds & tools. No toilet, no baths, in the middle of the ocean, with waves that continuously soaked the ship & lashed so high, 1 was swept away, yet saved. The battering waves severely cracked the main beam, threatening to crack the wooden boat, itself, into splinters.  The Pilgrims took refuge in the dark, stinking belly of the ship where they, too, were beat and battered around by the sea. The ship shook violently, flinging people, animals & goods around. The chamber pots brimmed & spilled over with vomit & human waste.  A rough & stormy voyage that left many Pilgrims so seasick they could barely stand.  It took 66 long, miserable days to finally reach land. But, things were about to get worse.  They stepped into a harsh winter with no settlement, little food or water, and a strange land they knew nothing about. They didn’t know it, yet, but the coast that welcomed them still whispered of mass death.  Up to 90% of the local native tribes had been wiped out by a ‘plague’, just the year before. The Pilgrims’ own mass deaths would soon follow. In cramped quarters, sharing germs, weak from frigid cold and lack of food & water, ½ of the colony died that 1 st brutal winter. Of the 102 who landed in Plymouth, Massachusetts, only 51 remained the following spring.     

The Pilgrims were Separatists who had separated from the Church of England because they wanted the freedom to worship & have a relationship with God, not worship under the terms of King James & the English crown. They were different from the Puritans, such as those in Salem a few years later, who tried to ‘purify’ the church by changing it from within. The Pilgrims, however, were Separatists who thought they needed to break from it, altogether. They gained that religious freedom by moving to Holland, but they wanted to start their own Godly, English community based on their beliefs, customs & principles to raise their children in.

Stop 1: National Monument to the Forefathers (c1889)- 72 Allerton St.

Enormous at 81 feet tall, it was planned to be twice as big, but funds ran short in the Civil War.  The architect was an abolitionist & original illustrator of Uncle Tom’s Cabin and the Old Farmer’s Almanac .  It represents the Pilgrims’ cornerstone principles in which they founded Plymouth colony.  Faith is the central figure of the monument, surrounded by 4 seated figures representing Morality, Law, Education, and Liberty.  There are 4 bas-relief scenes that illustrate the Pilgrims’ journey- Departure from Holland, Peace Treaty with the Natives, Mayflower Compact, & Landing at Plymouth Rock.  Panels include quotes, a Mayflower passenger list, and dedication “by a grateful people in remembrance of their labors, sacrifices and sufferings for the cause of civil and religious liberty”.  It’s dedicated to our nation, but is not a federal monument.  

There are many intricate details with much symbolism behind its design.  Guided tours can be purchased locally, or online videos may help you fully appreciate its meaning.  Christian documentaries have been devoted to it.  Its size is stunning and the detail beautiful.  It’s a must-see when you’re in Plymouth, though you can save it for the end of the day, since it’s open dawn- dusk, April- November.  Well-kept sidewalks lead to the monument with a slight incline.  I t is part of the Pilgrim Memorial State Park,  along with Plymouth Rock.

Stop 2:  Pilgrim Hall Museum (c 1824) , just a 1/2 mile away at 75 Court St (Route 3A)

The oldest, continuous public museum in the US, it is small, but unique & interesting, taking about 1 ½- 2 hrs to see. They have an impressive collection of Pilgrim, colonist & Native American artifacts, weapons, and household furniture & goods, 400 years old. A number of the items sailed over on the Mayflower. This is the largest Pilgrim collection anywhere & the only Pilgrim artifacts we’ve seen. That makes it a must-see in Plymouth.

Some of the highlights include:

Your only chance to touch a piece of Plymouth Rock

A baby cradle for 1 of 2 babies born on the Mayflower, Peregrine White, born in Cape Cod Bay- the 1st Pilgrim birth in America

(Plymouth colony governor) William Bradford’s Bible & chair

(Plymouth colony military captain, treasurer & assistant governor) Capt. Myles Standish’s sword

• the only verified portrait of a Mayflower Pilgrim painted in life, Edward Winslow c1651

They have a 15 minute film to give background on the Pilgrims & their way of life.  Generally o pen 9:30- 4:30 daily, excluding some holidays & circumstances.  Admission includes a family option (2 adults + their kids, under 18- $30 in 2019), which was great for us.  Have senior and student discounts, as well (In 2019- $12 for adults (16+), $10 for seniors or students (with ID), $8 for kids (6-18).  Residents & certain associations are free.   

Stop 3:  ‘ Discover Plymouth’s History’ walking tour – 48 Summer St.

After lunch, 1/2 mile from Pilgrim Hall, we met historian Leo Martin for a walking tour at the Jenney museum (c1749).  Leo is a local expert & Director of Education at the Jenney museum & grist mill.  Walking tours enrich your visit, giving deeper understanding, making History come alive, particularly for kids.  This one was excellent. The info is well-paced & fascinating, giving background & context- the why, the how & the what happened next.  He pointed out important details that aren’t on signs.  Leo has made a life out of doing the research for you. He can answer your questions, makes History interesting, and gives you those stand-out stories, bringing everything together for a much fuller view.  The kids were enraptured, as was every adult.  Times vary depending on season, but he often offers 2 a day, Mon- Sat. If you can make it early and particularly if you have kids, do this 1 st in Plymouth to make everything in town that much more interesting.

The tour is 1 hour & 15 minutes, about a mile long & includes walking up several hills. Indoor presentations are available for those who can’t walk or during inclement weather, among other tour topics offered. Reservations are required & may be available the day of, but can sell out in popular seasons.  We ordered in advance & had a full tour.  Family rates are available. This walking tour includes Brewster Gardens, Plymouth Rock, the historic waterfront area, Mother Pilgrim statue, Burial & Cole’s Hills, Leyden Street & Town Square. He also points out a number of statues that you may miss, otherwise. He gives you the religious, economic, political and social background & issues surrounding the Pilgrims.  A definite must-do to understand the Pilgrims & Plymouth more deeply.

Pilgrim’s view from the site of their fort & the 1st Thanksgiving, overlooking Plymouth Harbor where the Mayflower landed.

Stop 4, 5, 6 & 7- Revisit Cole’s Hill, Burial Hill, Plymouth Rock (less than ½ mile away):

The tour goes briskly, so we returned to the waterfront area for more pix & exploration. We revisited Cole’s Hill on Carver St., which is across the street from Plymouth Rock, and Burial Hill is 2 blocks away.

Stop 4 –  Cole’s Hill, the 1st Pilgrim burial ground.  Today, contains the sarcophagus of a mass grave of ½ of the Plymouth colony who died during that 1 st winter.  For photo & more on this site, see my 10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Pilgrims article.  

Stop 5-  Burial Hill , location of the Plymouth colonists’ fort with a beautiful view overlooking Plymouth Harbor where the Mayflower anchored & Plymouth Rock lies.  It’s where their cannons stood guard over the harbor, where their meeting house was and they also held church. The 1 st Thanksgiving was held on this hill.  A number of Pilgrims, including William Bradford, have been buried here, today, though not with the original headstones, which were wood. The only Mayflower passenger’s grave with original headstone is in Salem, Massachusetts & is discussed in my Salem post here.

Stop 6-  Plymouth Rock – During American Revolutionary fervor in 1774, leaders tried moving Plymouth Rock to Town Square, but broke off the top. In 1834, they tried moving the top to Pilgrim Hall, but it fell from the cart & broke in 1/2, now mortared together.  In 1880, they reunited the top to its buried base on the shoreline of Plymouth Harbor & carved in the landing year, 1620.  After breaking twice & souvenir seekers chipping away pieces, it’s estimated to only be 1/3 or ½ its original size and only 1/3 of the rock is visible above ground. It is covered by a small portico, along the shore on Water St.  For more on the Plymouth Rock legend, see my 10 things You Didn’t Know About the Pilgrims article .  

Stop 7-  Pilgrim Mother fountain , just 200 feet North, across the street is a memorial erected on the 300th anniversary in 1920, honoring the women on the Mayflower.  Women & children were the only Plymouth colonists who couldn’t sign the Mayflower Compact (their 1st governing document for how things would be run).  Indentured servants & non-Pilgrims even signed it, if male.  All but 4 of the women died that 1st winter, along with 1/2 of the rest.  Many, mothers who gave the bulk of their tiny portions of food to their kids, leaving themselves weaker and prone to the weather & pneumonia.  

Stop 8: Mayflower II ship –  74 Water Street; generally open 9- 4:45 daily

Just ahead, the Mayflower II is normally docked, the ‘Waterfront Exhibit’ of Plimoth Patuxet (formerly Plimoth Plantation).  Since 2016, it underwent an $11.2 million restoration in Connecticut.  It was in preparation for the 400 year anniversary of the Pilgrim’s voyage, in 2020. The original Mayflower sailed back to England in the spring, never to return, although another ship was named Mayflower and it made the voyage several times. The original was probably broken up for wood when she was retired. This Mayflower II is a full-scale reproduction of what they believe her to have been, consistent with other merchant ships of the time.  It was a gift of friendship from England in the 1950s, after WWII. It has informative plaques & a few exhibits.  Period characters onboard describe 17 century conditions, aboard the ship. Your visit will take about 45 minutes. Tickets were $10 for adults, $7 for children- subject to change. It may be a bit pricey for families, but it’s something you should visit if you’re here. It helps kids and even adults get a better idea of size, layout & conditions to better visualize what that voyage may have been like.

We had a great day in Plymouth. In grade school, we learn about the Pilgrims, Native Americans, and Plymouth, so it was exciting to visit in person, walk the same land and see some of the same landscape they saw with our own eyes. The Itinerary worked out really well and was a full visit, not too busy, all great sites. But, you could spend a couple of days, visiting cute shops and relaxing in this mellow, little sea village. Kids will enjoy seeing things they’ve all learned about and parents will have a peaceful, enjoyable day.  The town also has ties & memorials for the Revolutionary & Civil Wars and for 9/11, and nearby towns have a number of other Pilgrim sites & monuments.  2020 is the 400th Anniversary of the Mayflower landing .  If you’re in Massachusetts, Plymouth is well worth the trip!  

• Our other Massachusetts Posts
• Our other History Travel Posts

For more information-   Check out my Top 10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Pilgrims . 

Also https://www.history.com  

plimoth.org

pilgrimhall.org

themayflowersociety.org

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The 15 Best Things to do in Plymouth, Massachusetts

When you visit Plymouth , Massachusetts , there’s history everywhere you look. Dating back to 1620, Plymouth’s story is one of perseverance. The Pilgrims arrived in Plymouth after a long and challenging journey from England to create a new home where their future children could prosper.

But the story of Plymouth is also greatly misunderstood, with many people being unable to tell the facts from the myths. When you plan a trip to Plymouth, you can immerse yourself in the real history of this legendary location. From living history museums to houses preserved in their heyday, you’ll learn about the people who came across the world to call this land home, as well as the people who called it home for generations prior.

Planning a trip to this historic destination? We’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Plymouth, from cruises with stunning views to tours that take you into a world you’ve never seen before. Stick to this Plymouth bucket list, and you’re bound to have an amazing time in this famous colony.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 15 Best Things to do in Plymouth, MA

1. take a cruise on the pilgrim belle.

While Captain John Boats may run all kinds of cruises, with a fleet of five different boats that visitors can climb aboard, there’s nothing quite like a ride on the Pilgrim Belle . Taking a cruise on the Pilgrim Belle is one of the most unique things to do in Plymouth, as it’s a stunning, authentic paddlewheel boat that feels perfectly at home in Plymouth’s historic harbor.

The Pilgrim Belle offers cruises through the beautiful harbor, where you can soak up the sun on the deck or relax in the climate-controlled cabin on your 75-minute, narrated journey. You’ll bob around the water as you take in the sights of Plymouth from the comfort of the classic ship. A full bar is also available aboard the boat but requires cash.

Harbor cruises are available during the day, or you can book a special sunset cruise. With a cocktail in hand, you can watch as the sun descends over the harbor and take in the evening air over the ocean. 

2. Explore Myles Standish State Forest

Looking to get out in nature during your trip to Plymouth? Then, Myles Standish State Forest belongs on your Plymouth bucket list. Named for the military advisor to the Pilgrims, Myles Standish State Forest offers tons of recreational opportunities to have you get out and enjoy the great outdoors. With over 12,400 acres to explore, you’re bound to see all types of beautiful creatures in this forest.

Take in the fresh smell of the pine trees as you traverse 13 miles of hiking trails. There are many routes to take in this state forest. Take the Rocky Pond Cranberry Bog Trail to see a seven-acre commercial cranberry bog in operation in the state forest. Or go biking on over 15 miles of paved bike paths. Hiking and biking are particularly beautiful in the fall, as the forest becomes a sea of reds, golds, and yellows mixed in among the green.

Or perhaps you’re planning a summer trip. With the forest’s many ponds, you can go swimming, canoeing, or fishing on the water. 

3. Step Back in Time at Plimoth Patuxet Museums

Formerly known as Plimoth Plantation, Plimoth Patuxet Museums offer you a chance to explore what life was like back during the age of the Pilgrims. These living history museums provide one of the coolest things to do in Plymouth if you want to be truly immersed in history.

Plimoth Patuxet Museums includes several exhibits that bring to life the original Plymouth colony and the history of the Indigenous tribes who have long inhabited here. In the Historic Patuxet exhibit, you’ll learn about the Native Wampanoag people who lived in this area for over 12,000 years. 

You’ll explore their homes and see how they lived, from playing their games to helping to make a mishoon, which is a dug-out canoe. You may even try a bite of a traditional Wampanoag meal as you learn about how their people harvested and prepared food.

Over in the 17th-Century English Village, you’ll meet villagers who can tell you all about historical events in the 1600s and what their day-to-day life is like. Here, you’ll participate with the Pilgrims in their goings-on, from making remedies for the home to helping to keep the town safe to simply playing traditional Pilgrim games. 

Near the 17th-Century English Village, you’ll find the Craft Center, where you can learn about crafts and herbal remedies from the 1600s. In the Humoral Gardens, you’ll find medicinal herbs that demonstrate the Doctrine of the Humors, the leading medical theory in the Plymouth colony. 

Inside the Craft Center, you’ll learn about how those herbs were used and see how they were turned into treatments. Also in the Craft Center, you’ll see skilled artisans hard at work recreating historic items from the 17th century.

4. Tour the Mayflower II

The Mayflower II functions both as a part of and independently of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. You can buy a ticket that gets you access to the other museum sites and the Mayflower II, or you can simply grab a ticket that gets you onboard this historic replica.

The Mayflower is one of the greatest pieces of American history, which is why visiting its replica, the Mayflower II, is one of the must-do things in Plymouth. This replica, which has become the centerpiece of Plymouth Harbor, is a monument to the journey that was taken more than 400 years ago that led to the America we know today. 

While no one knows what happened to the Mayflower, its replica is a historic ship in its own right, having been added to the National Register of Historic Places following its return to Plymouth in 2020. The Mayflower II is a working vessel, having sailed from Plymouth, England, to Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1957. It was restored in 2020 and found a home at the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, now functioning as its own exhibit.

5. Step Inside the Plimoth Grist Mill

Like the Mayflower II, the Plimoth Grist Mill is a part of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, but you can either purchase a ticket to this Plymouth attraction as a part of your pass to the other parts of the museum or just pick admission to the mill. The mill itself is located on Town Brook, the waterway that powers it.

The Plimoth Grist Mill is a real working mill working to rebuild regional grain economies, which you can support by purchasing the stone-ground grains when you come for a tour of this mill. It’s a recreation of the original 1636 grain mill that the Pilgrims once used, but it’s historic in its own right, using 200-year-old millstones to grind the corn.

Outside the mill, you’ll see how water diverted by the Town Brook turns the waterwheel to power the mill. Inside, you’ll see how the mill works to cut the corn into finer and finer pieces. If you plan on visiting the Plimoth Grist Mill, you may want to aim to arrive on a Saturday afternoon, which tends to be when the millers are hard at work. 

You can also interact with the mill in the hands-on exhibit area, where you’ll experiment with simple machines to learn how water power works and learn about the river herring that migrate past the mill every spring.

6. See a Show at Priscilla Beach Theatre

What’s so special about Priscilla Beach Theatre ? Seeing a show means traveling back in time to the days when barn summer stock theaters were popping up around the US. In fact, this historic theater was one of the first such theaters in the nation, dating back to 1937, which is why it remains one of the coolest Plymouth attractions.

Located one block from Priscilla Beach, this theater is set on a charming two-acre campus, with its beautiful barn as the centerpiece. Priscilla Beach Theatre produces six shows from May to October, so if you’re planning a trip in the late spring to early fall, catching a show is one of the best things to do in Plymouth. 

Got a little one interested in acting? You can also consider signing them up for the theater’s training camp. Many young actors have gotten their start at this iconic theater, including Paul Newman, Rob Reiner, Peter Gallagher, and Jennifer Coolidge.

7. Visit the Iconic Plymouth Rock

Seeing the world-famous Plymouth Rock is just a must-do thing in Plymouth. When you see it, admittedly, there’s not much to it – unless you know the story behind it.

Located in Pilgrim Memorial Park on the shore of Plymouth Harbor, Plymouth Rock may be something that we can see and admire, but it’s more of a legend than anything else. We will likely never know the exact landing spot of the Pilgrims who came over on the Mayflower, but there’s one story that’s made Plymouth Rock an iconic symbol of freedom. 

The boulder actually became famous 121 years after the arrival of the Mayflower. When Thomas Faunce, a church elder, heard that a wharf was to be built over the rock, he claimed that he must say a final goodbye. His father, who did come over on the Mayflower, assured him that the rock was the Pilgrims’ landing site. The story spread, and Plymouth Rock has been a historical landmark ever since. 

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, you can hear the story and more about the famous rock in a 10-minute talk at the rock’s site. Talks typically happen every 30 minutes.

8. Go on a Whale-Watching Tour

In addition to the Pilgrim Belle, Captain John Boats also offers whale-watching tours in Plymouth . If you’re visiting during their whale-watching season, running from April to October, hopping on board to witness gentle giants at sea is one of the top things to do in Plymouth.

Departing from Plymouth Harbor, your four-hour journey will be led by a naturalist. Not only are you likely to see stunning creatures in the water, but you’ll also learn about them from a knowledgeable expert. You’ll venture out to Cape Cod Bay and Stellwagen Bank, a marine sanctuary and one of the primary feeding grounds for several types of whales.

What whales might you see out in the water? Some of the most commonly sighted include humpbacks, finbacks, and minke whales. But you might also catch a glimpse of some of the less commonly spotted types, like the pilot whales and the endangered right whales.

Be sure to dress warmly if you intend to stand out on the deck, but you also have access to the climate-controlled cabin. Food and beverages, including alcohol, are available on board, but both are cash only.

9. See History Preserved by the Plymouth Antiquarian Society

The Plymouth Antiquarian Society is the city’s largest organization dedicated to preserving historic sites. They strive to tell the story of everyday life in Plymouth from the mid-17th century through today through their exhibits, tours, and special events. 

Visiting the historic sites this society has preserved is one of the coolest things to do in Plymouth because you get to explore Plymouth’s history beyond the Pilgrims. Learn about the Native people of the area at the ancient Sacrifice Rock, an essential stop by Wampanoag wayfarers throughout time. 

Or venture back to the 17th century at the Harlow House, built in 1677 as the family residence of the settler William Harlow, who served as a sergeant of the local militia. It is today one of the few remaining 17th-century buildings in Plymouth.

The Spooner House takes you into the 18th century, having been built in 1749. Though it was built for the widow Hannah Jackson, it became known as the Spooner House as the Spooner family inhabited it for over 200 years.

One of the best examples of Federal period architecture in Plymouth, the Hedge House, dates back to 1809. It was built by shipowner William Hammatt, but when merchant Thomas Hedge purchased it in 1830, he built upon it to accommodate his large family.

Tours of the historic sites are available seasonally or by appointment. Special events may also open the houses up for visitation.

10. Learn About our Past at the Pilgrim Hall Museum

As it’s in a city that’s filled with history, it should come as no surprise that one of the best things to do in Plymouth is visit the oldest public museum in continuous operation in the US. Pilgrim Hall Museum dates back to 1824 and is filled with early Plymouth artifacts that can teach you about how the Pilgrims and the Native Wampanoag people lived.

Collections include historical paintings, furnishings, texts, patents, and the Sparrow-Hawk, a small vessel that only housed 25 passengers who were attempting to land in Virginia. They encountered a horrible storm that led to them landing in Plymouth, though many lives were lost at sea.

The museum is open from April through December. Throughout this time, it features both permanent and rotating exhibits. Here, you’ll learn about the interactions between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag, from their first meetings to the terrible days of King Philip’s War. You’ll also see pieces of history that date back to the Mayflower’s crossing, like Governor William Bradford’s Bible and military leader Myles Standish’s sword.

11. Unearth the Pilgrims’ World at the Jabez Howland House

There’s history everywhere you look in Plymouth, and perhaps one of the best Plymouth attractions for history fans is the Jabez Howland House . The house is the only existing house in Plymouth where the Pilgrims actually spent time, though the homeowner did not come over on the Mayflower himself. The house, a two-story timber-framed structure, was owned by Jabez Howland, the son of Mayflower passengers John and Elizabeth Howland.

Jabez lived there until 1680, and it remained a private residence until 1912, when it was bought and turned into a museum. It now holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places. In the 1940s, it was returned to the way it looked when Jabez owned it, so stepping foot in this house is indeed much like stepping into a Pilgrim’s home.

The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts from the age of the Pilgrims, including 17th-century furnishings, archaeological digs from the Rocky Nook homes of John and Elizabeth, items uncovered from their son Joseph’s farm, letters to the Howland family from descendants of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, and much more.

12. Stroll Around the Tidmarsh Wildlife Sanctuary

The Tidmarsh Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the top things to see in Plymouth. Once a working cranberry farm, the sanctuary underwent the largest freshwater ecological restoration project in the Northeast. The result was a 481-acre haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with tons of trails to explore, filled with unique flora and fauna. Here, you’ll find cold-water streams, ponds, forests, woodlands, and the many creatures who call these environments home.

Currently, there are four miles of trails to traverse throughout this sanctuary, though more are being developed. The trails will take you past old cranberry bogs, cattail marshes, and many more unique ecosystems. 

While you can explore here on your own, the sanctuary also offers many programs that will help you learn more about what you’re seeing. From guided walks to reading groups, these programs are a great way to connect with nature while also getting to know the people of Plymouth and your fellow travelers.

13. Have a Day at the Beach

If you’re visiting when the weather’s warm, you may want to add a beach day to your list of things to do in Plymouth. Plymouth is home to a diverse array of beaches, each offering something a bit different.

Long Beach is as popular for people as it is for migratory birds. If you want to do some bird-watching, this beach is a great place to go. It’s also great for long walks in the sand at sunset.

Or head to Ellisville Harbor State Park if you want to experience the beach alongside other spectacular ecosystems, including a beautiful red pine forest. If you’re visiting in the winter months, you’ll still want to head to this beach to hopefully catch a glimpse of harbor seals.

Visiting with little ones? Stop by Nelson Memorial Beach Park . In addition to the beach, you also get many amenities here, including a play area and splash pad for kids. If you’re worried about your children not being ready for the ocean, you can still enjoy the stunning views while your little ones have some fun in the splash pad.

14. Take a Cranberry Bog Tour

Plymouth and its surrounding communities are filled with cranberry bogs, and visiting these bogs is one of the most unique things to do in Plymouth. But there’s a very limited amount of time to see the harvest in action.

Massachusetts Cranberries offers tours from their barn in nearby Carver. From there, they take groups out on rented school buses to bring them up close to where the wet harvest is happening. But tours only run for the public on the weekends during the harvest season. They begin at the end of September and last until the first weekend in November.

The cranberry harvest is a stunning sight. Plus, you’ll learn about what it takes to harvest these crimson beauties and how your favorite cranberry treats are made! And when the tour ends, you can take home some cranberries and cranberry-filled products from the company’s small shop.

15. Have a Spooky Good Time on a Ghost Tour

In a place known for its history, it makes sense that there might be more than a few spooky specters hanging around Plymouth. Gear up for some scary Plymouth sightseeing on a tour with Dead of Night Ghost Tours .

On their Nightly Twilight Lantern Ghost Tour, you’ll go on a two-hour walking tour of the most historically haunted areas of the city. As you walk along the oldest streets in the US, you’ll hear tales of the paranormal and make your way to where the most frequent ghost sightings happen in Plymouth.

Visit the old Town Square, said to be forever cursed by Wampanoag sachem Metacom, known to colonists as King Philip. Venture through Burial Hill, the burying ground of many Pilgrims. And hear tales of local legends and folklore that date back centuries. 

Your guide has been studying the paranormal for decades, and she can tell you about the many encounters she’s had over the years, including one that led to the creation of this very tour. Be sure to bring your camera, as many a chilling sight has been caught on film on this tour!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Plymouth. What’s your favorite thing to do in Plymouth? Let us know in the comments!

Planning a trip to Massachusetts? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

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The Rich History and Scenic Beauty of Plymouth: A Guide to the Top Attractions

Plymouth, Massachusetts, also known as America’s home town, is a beautiful coastal town located about 40 miles southeast of Boston. It is known for its rich history, beautiful scenery, and numerous attractions. The town is steeped in history, as it was the site of the first permanent English settlement in the New World in 1620, and many historical landmarks remain today.

Historical sites are not the only reason to visit Plymouth: you’ll find dozens of restaurants and gift shops as well as a winery and 2 craft breweries!

Folks travel from all over the world to visit Plymouth MA. There is even an airport!

I live 18 miles north of Plymouth and visit regularly. I always leave feeling different than when I arrived. Is it my sense of pride, that I learned something new or just in sheer awe of the early settlers? Not sure. I just know it is a great town to stroll with my 2 puppies Simon and Max.

The Waterfront

There is simply no shortage of mouthwatering fresh caught lobsters and seafood to be enjoyed! You can be sure no matter what day you visit Plymouth the seafood will be fresh and the best you have ever had!

The waterfront has dozens of restaurants, many casual. The Lobster Hut has been a staple on the Waterfront for as long as I can remember. Another local favorite waterfront restaurant is Tavern on the Wharf. Go one block away from the water on Court Street and find even more restaurants as well as gift shops and hotels. Stay at the Hotel 1620 or the John Carver Inn , and don’t forget to grab a craft beer at the Mayflower Brewing Company !

Plymouth Harbor Walk

Plymouth Harbor Walk is a beautiful walkway along the waterfront that offers stunning views of the harbor and the town. Visitors can stroll along the walkway, stopping to admire the scenery, take photos, and relax. There are also several benches along the way where visitors can sit and enjoy the view. The walkway is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of Plymouth, and it is also a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and birdwatching. The best times to visit this trail are April through October. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Plymouth Rock

Plymouth rock- exploring the myth and reality..

The famous (infamous?) Plymouth Rock is right here in Pilgrim Memorial State Park on the Waterfront.

Plymouth Rock is one of the most iconic and mysterious symbols of American history and pride. The founding settlers’ stories have been passed down and around for centuries. The legend did not appear until 1741, over a century after the Pilgrims arrived. None of the first-hand stories mentions landing on a rock (and when you see how small the rock really is, you’ll understand why this may be a legend!) In fact, it may be that they actually landed in Provincetown first, then made their way to Plymouth. Either way, the monument and the rock that it encloses, are symbols of the hardships that they endured.

The Pilgrim Hall

Pilgrim Hall Museum is the oldest museum in the country. I have visited several times and am never disappointed. Rich in history, ever changing displays and so much history dating back to to the early 1600s all under one roof.

Housed in Pilgrim Hall you will see arms and armour, furniture and artifacts, historical paintings and portraits, books and patents. There is a copy of Governor William Bradfords bible. The museum owns the original Elder Brewster Chair and Peregrine White cradle.

You will find Henry Sargents’ huge painting of the ‘Landing of the Pilgrims’ . Sargent loaned the painting to the museum for the 1824 opening and gifted the painting to the museum in 1835. There are several other great depictions of art of the era in the Pilgrim Hall 75 Court St Plymouth MA 02360 508 746 1620

The Plimouth Grist Mill

The Plimouth Grist Mill is formerly known as the Jenney Grist Mill. This treasure was originally built in 1636 by our earliest settlers and is the oldest operating Grist Mill in the country.

Grist is defined as grain that is ground to make flour. The early settlers had plenty of corn and water and ingeniously put both to great use. The grist mill is 14 feet in diameter and is renowned for its high quality products made from corn and other grains. Visitors may catch the Millers grinding on some Saturday afternoons inside on the grinding floor.

This is one of my favorite landmarks in Plymouth both for the rich history and the beautiful grounds. The grounds are dog friendly. Simon & Max love that! Of course the pups are leashed and a poop bag always at the ready.

The Plimoth Grist Mill is located at: 6 Spring Lane Plymouth MA 02360 508 830 1124 Opening Day is Saturday April 1 2023. through the Sunday following Thanksgiving.

Mayflower ll

What really happened to the original mayflower.

According to the Plimoth Plantation, “No one knows for sure what happened to the original Mayflower. The last record of the ship was an assessment of her value in 1624.” The Mayflower ll is such a rich way to learn the history and it floats! The views aren’t too shabby either! More than 25 million people have boarded the Mayflower ll to feel what it must have felt like for these people during their tumultuous passage to America. In many ways, we are the result of these events from 4 centuries ago.

Mayflower ll is docked at historic Plymouth Harbor. You can board the Mayflower ll during the open season which begins in April 2023.

Plymouth Patuxet Living Museum

Historic Patuxet is where guests learn about the Native peoples who have lived here for over 12,000 years. Experience what life was like for the Wampanoag communities, including where they lived, what they ate and how they farmed.

New England Village

The 17th century New England Village is a re-creation of the small farming and maritime community built by the Pilgrims along the shore of Plymouth Harbor. This living museum teaches how the Pilgrims lived and farmed: actors in historical garb will answer your questions about colonial life.

Please visit these site before you head to Plymouth for entrance tickets and how to plan your visit to the various museums:

https://plimoth.org/plan-your-visit/hours-tickets-directions https://plimothpatuxet.centeredgeonline.com/retail/item

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The Open Road Travel

• Oct 7, 2022

The 15 Best Things To Do In Plymouth, Massachusetts

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

Plymouth is a small town that that doesn’t often top peoples list of vacation destinations in the United States, despite being one of the nation’s most historic towns. In the following article on the 15 best things to do in Plymouth, Massachusetts, we aim to change that.

From historic locations to iconic events and landscapes, Plymouth has plenty to offer for all kinds of different tourists. We hope to give you everything you need to plan a dream travel itinerary for when you inevitably decide to visit Plymouth for yourself.

Plymouth, Massachusetts At A Glance

Founded in 1620, Plymouth Massachusetts is the oldest permanent settlement in New England and 9th oldest in the entire United States. It is infamous for being the site where the Mayflower first docked with its passengers who had made the long voyage to “The New World”.

One of the original Thirteen Colonies, it is a city well known for its abundance of historic buildings and attractions. It is also regarded as the location of the first prominent Thanksgiving feast to be held in the United States, which took place in 1621.

Located in southern Massachusetts, on Cape Cod Bay, Plymouth is also surrounded by some of the most stunning coastal landscapes in the nation. Despite its significance and proximity to the city of Boston , it has managed to maintain a largely traditional feel.

Best Time To Visit Plymouth, Massachusetts

Those seeking the best time to visit Plymouth, Massachusetts will likely want to choose one of two windows.

Mid-June to the end of August is when Plymouth experiences its warmest, driest period, making it the best time to visit for those who want to explore without worrying about the weather.

October and November then allows you to experience things like the iconic New England fall foliage, the region’s legendary Halloween season, and Plymouth’s famed Thanksgiving celebrations.

Best Things To Do In Plymouth, Massachusetts

As we move to our list of the 15 best things to do in Plymouth, Massachusetts, I am going to suggest a broad range of options. These will include things to appeal to travellers of all different interests, while ensuring you have something to cover everything that Plymouth is known for.

Appreciate The Legacy Of Plymouth At The Jenney Interpretative Center

The Jenney Interpretative Center is an education center that features rotating exhibits on Plymouth and Pilgrim life, while also running guided tours around the town.

It is a great option for those who want to learn the little bits of insider knowledge that most will miss, and it always has something new on display, so is equally suited to return visitors as well.

48 Summer St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Learn About Local History In The Plimoth Patuxet Museums

Established in 1947, the Plimoth Patuxet Museums are a complete recreation of a Pilgrim village from the 1600s. This makes it an ideal destination for those wanting to experience the town’s history with their own eyes.

Designed using records, accounts, paintings, and artefacts from the area, it is as historically accurate as possible. The recreated buildings include houses, livestock enclosures, a blacksmith shop, and fort, as well as artefacts like Native American canoes.

With actors in period dress giving performances and tours and the buildings all filled with artefacts and décor from the time, the Plimoth Patuxet museums will immerse you in the Pilgrim way of life better than anywhere else on Earth.

137 Warren Ave, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Enjoy A Visit To The Plimoth Grist Mill

The Plimoth Grist Mill was built in 1969 and is a recreation of the historic 1636 Jenney Grist Mill, which stood on the same site. Still a fully operational grist mill, it continues to process barley, corn, rye, and wheat to this day.

Now boasting a museum that shows visitors the historic equipment and techniques that were used to produce food, it is a beautiful and educational location that gives us more than just a glimpse into the traditional Pilgrim way of life.

6 Spring Ln, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Study The Exhibits Of The Pilgrim Hall Museum

Having been established in 1824, the Pilgrim Hall Museum is the oldest public museum in the entire United States. Housed in a Greek Revival style building, it is an establishment full of history and beauty both inside and out.

Its collections include artefacts, archives, works of art, and a library, all dedicated to the history of both the Pilgrims and the Plymouth Colony. Boasting countless items owned and used by the Pilgrims themselves, it is a great place to get a better understanding of how the U.S came to be.

75 Court St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Take A Boat To The Duxbury Pier Lighthouse

The Duxbury Pier Lighthouse, which is also affectionately known as the Bug Light, was erected in the waters of Plymouth Harbor in 1871 to warn ships of the dangerous shoals in the surrounding area.

The oldest sparkplug lighthouse in the United States, it has survived multiple storms and threats of replacement through the years. Whether you choose to view it from the shore or hop on a boat for a closer look, it is truly one of the region’s most iconic landmarks.

Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Appreciate The National Monument To The Forefathers

Erected in 1889, the National Monument To The Forefathers stands 81 feet (25 metres) tall and was created to honour the legacy of the Pilgrims. A truly stunning monument, it is said to represent the main principles upon which the Pilgrims based their society.

At the centre of the memorial is a giant figure pointing to the heavens and clutching a bible which is meant to represent faith. She is then surrounded by four smaller figures which represent education, law, liberty, and morality.

The largest solid granite monument on Earth, it has been listed on the United States National Register Of Historic Places since 1974.

72 Allerton St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Spend A Day On Plymouth Beach

Plymouth Beach is a village and beach that sit on a barrier island jutting out into Plymouth Bay.

With 3 miles (4.8 km) of golden sands, a restaurant and motel, an abundance of rare migratory birds nesting on the shores, and a small range of beach activities to enjoy, it is a fabulous place to spend a relaxing day eating, swimming, sunbathing, and taking in the scenic views.

Explore The Waters Of Cape Cod Bay

Cape Cod Bay is a stunning expanse of water that is surrounded by some of the most historic and iconic towns and islands in the entire United States.

With various places around the Plymouth Harbour offering tours and boat rentals you can sail the waters to see the sights, visit some of the destinations, or simply unwind away from humanity for a truly relaxing experience.

Plymouth Harbor, 108 Water St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Pay A Visit To The Gurnet light

Known as both Gurnet Light and Plymouth Light, this attraction is a historic lighthouse that was built in 1842 and sits on the Gurnet Point peninsula at the entrance to Plymouth Bay. It is the 3rd lighthouse to stand on its spot, having replaced prior structures that were built in 1768 and 1801.

The oldest wooden lighthouse in the nation, it stands 33 feet (10 metres) tall and is the first thing ships entering the bay will see. Whether you choose to catch a both across to it or hike along the peninsula, it is a sight not to be missed when you visit Plymouth.

1 Grant St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Visit The Nation’s Oldest Graves On Burial Hill

Burial Hill is a historic graveyard that was established in 1620 and contains the graves of many of the original Pilgrims who made the voyage to the United States.

One of the oldest cemeteries in the nation, it is a great place to see beautiful cenotaphs and the graves of the country’s founders, giving you the opportunity to pay your respects. It has been listed on the United States National Register Of Historic Places since 2013.

School St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Tour The Harlow Old Fort House

Built in 1677, the Harlow Old Fort House earned its name by being made from wood from the original Plymouth Colony fort, which had been torn down earlier that year. It was owned by the Harlow family for almost 250 years, from its construction to the early 20th century.

After being restored, the Plymouth Antiquarian Society opened the house to the public as a museum in 1921. Boasting colonial era décor and furniture, as well as actors dressed in period attire, it is a great place to learn about Plymouth’s early history.

119 Sandwich St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Step Aboard The Mayflower II

The Mayflower II is a full sized replica of the Mayflower, the historic vessel that brought the original Pilgrims across to the United States. Created in 1955, it is said to be extremely faithful to the original design, with only a couple of changes, such as the addition of electric lights.

Tours of the vessel are led by costumed guides to help immerse you in the spirit of your location as you learn about the voyage, see artefacts from the time, and get a better understanding of what the lives of the 132 people on the original ship would have been like during their 10 week voyage.

A seaworthy vessel that even makes occasional voyages, it is a perfect place to learn what life would have been like for the people who founded the United States. It was added to the U.S National Register Of Historic Places in 2020 to mark the 400th anniversary of the original ship’s arrival.

Water St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Go Inside The Mayflower Society House

The Mayflower Society House is a stunning mansion that was built by a descendant of Edward Winslow, a passenger and prominent leader on the Mayflower. Erected in 1754, it was given to the Mayflower Society and turned into a museum in 1897.

It contains records, archives, and documents on all the Mayflower passengers, as well as all known descendants, all housed in a building containing décor and furnishings from the time it was built.

Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about each one of the people who made the voyage to the new world and perhaps even see if you could be related to one of them yourself, as more than 10 million Americans are.

4 Winslow St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

See The Plymouth Rock With Your Own Eyes

Plymouth Rock is the legendary site said to mark the location where the passengers on the original Mayflower first disembarked. While the rock once broke in half and part of it was moved, it has stood complete in its current location since its inscription and a canopy were added in 1880.

While there are some doubts on the validity of the claims of the site as the original landing spot, most consider it to be genuine. This allows visitors to view the very landscape that the Pilgrims saw first when they landed with their own eyes and imagine how it has changed through the years.

Plymouth Rock was added to the United States National Register Of Historic Places in 1970.

79 Water St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Marvel At The Works In The Richard Sparrow House

The Richard Sparrow House is believed to be the oldest building in Plymouth still standing, having been erected in 1640. It was then added to the U.S National Register Of Historic Places in 1974.

Having been converted into a house museum filled with period furniture, art, and artefacts, it is the place to go for those who want to see the earliest examples of permanent settlements still remaining in the town.

42 Summer St, Plymouth, MA 02360, United States

Best Hotel To Stay At In Plymouth, Massachusetts – Pilgrim Sands On Long Beach

Pilgrim Sands On Long Beach is a beautiful hotel, located right on the waterfront, near the heart of Plymouth. It provides the perfect combination of comfort, easy access to attractions and the beach, and stunning views of the water.

Rooms all boast a flat screen satellite TV, private bathroom, hairdryer, and free toiletries, as well as access to the free Wi-Fi that covers the entire site. Some rooms will also have a private balcony.

In the communal areas, you will then find amenities like a private beach, 2 swimming pools, a bar, lounge, and meeting facilities. Free parking is also offered to all guests.

Plymouth, Massachusetts is a fabulous, historic town and a great place to explore, whether it is your final destination or a stop on a New England road trip . No matter why you visit, our list of the 15 best things to do in Plymouth should have all you need to plan a dream travel itinerary.

All you have left to do now then is start getting your perfect vacation booked, so you don’t miss out on any of the highlights when you visit Plymouth for yourself.

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13 Best Things To See On A Day Trip To Plymouth

Are you curious about a day trip to Plymouth? You’ve come to the right place as we have everything you need to know for the day!

As seasoned globe-trotters, we’re here to share with you one of our delightful day-long stops during our grand Massachusetts adventure.

Today, we’re venturing into the historical heart of America – the picturesque city of Plymouth.

You might be wondering, “Should I visit Plymouth if I only have one day to spare?”

As people who’ve devoted their lives to exploring the world, hopping from one city to the next, we can confidently tell you that a day in Plymouth is well spent.

We have navigated the globe, but our hearts always find their way back to the quaint cities that remind us that the most incredible adventures aren’t always in the most exotic locations.

So, buckle up, and let’s embark on this journey together. And remember, in the world of travel and exploration, no day is too short to make memories that last a lifetime!

Table of Contents

Day Trip to Plymouth, Ma, Itinerary

We have created an itinerary that should keep you busy all day.

But remember that this is YOUR trip and if you want to be more leisurely than we were, hit up the stops that interest you most and forget the rest.

Activities In Plymouth In The Morning

You will want to spend the entire day in Plymouth if you can.

Start your day by arriving in the city early; we suggest no later than 9 am if you want to accomplish most of our suggested itinerary.

1. Mayflower II

The Mayflower II is a replica of the original Mayflower ship. The Mayflower carried the Pilgrims from England to Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1620.

The second Mayflower was built in 1956 in England. Like the original, it sailed across the Atlantic Ocean to the US in 1957.

The ship is open for tours and offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the Pilgrims and their journey to America.

One thing we weren’t expecting was just how tiny the Mayflower is. We can’t even fathom being on a boat this size with 100 other people.

And for as many as nine weeks before landing in the New World!

2. Plymouth Rock

Plymouth Rock is one of the most iconic symbols in American history.

If you didn’t know, the first settlers didn’t mention the rock in Plymouth.

In fact, it wasn’t brought up until 1715 when a rock was used to describe the town boundary in a letter.

Plymouth Rock is said to be the spot where the Pilgrims set foot on American soil for the first time. But this actually isn’t true, as they technically stopped in what is now Provincetown on the peninsula first.

There is a possibility that they may have used this rock in Plymouth as a stepping stone to get off the boat, but no one knows for sure.

The rock has been moved several times over the years.

It even broke in half during a move to the Town Square in 1774, leaving the rock in two locations for over 100 years. The two parts were rejoined in 1880 at their current location, and the date was carved.

Today, you will find the rock under a granite canopy shelter to protect it.

We have heard from others that they were extremely disappointed with the rock. We can see that. It is, after all, just a rock. You only need a few minutes to look at and get a few photos.

But how do you come to Plymouth and skip seeing Plymouth Rock? You don’t.

Just set your expectations before arriving that it is a boulder with a date. But what it signifies is so much more.

3. Cole’s Hill Burial Ground

The Cole’s Hill Burial Ground is a national historic landmark and the first cemetery used by the Pilgrims in Plymouth. And it is a must-see on a day trip to Plymouth.

If you head up the hill, you will find a granite sarcophagus on display containing skeletal remains of what is believed to be many of the Pilgrims who died that first winter. The remains were dug up accidentally in later years.

The burial ground also contains a statue of Massasoit. He was the Wampanoag tribe leader vital to the Pilgrims’ survival those first few years.

Today, the Cole’s Hill Burial Ground is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Pilgrims.

It also symbolizes the friendship between two very different groups of people.

📎 Tip : Besides its historical value, Cole’s Hill also has excellent harbor views. From the higher vantage point, you can see a nice view of the Plymouth rock granite structure from above.

4. Leyden St & Old Homes

Leyden Street is one of the most iconic and historic streets in America. It was initially known as First Street, where the Pilgrims built their first homes.

Leyden Street is considered the oldest inhabited street from the original thirteen colonies.

While none of the original homes still stand, the current houses are still quite old (from the 1700s and 1800s). Many have plagues about what home used to sit on that homesite, providing a look into the days of the Pilgrims.

In addition, the street is unique in how close the homes sit together and the small size of the lots. This is because it is based on the original land division from the settlers in 1620.

It’s a beautiful street with a lot of character, and it’s worth walking down it to take a look.

☘️ Fun fact: The first Thanksgiving was thought to have been held around this location in 1621.

Afternoon Attractions For Your Day Out In Plymouth

Take some time for lunch wherever pleases your palette and then begin your afternoon activities.

5. Brewster Gardens

Brewster Gardens is our next recommendation for your day trip to Plymouth. Established in the 1920s, it sits on a garden plot from one of the original Pilgrims, Elder William Brewster.

The gardens are home to various plants, flowers, a babbling brook, bridges, and walking paths.

If your feet hurt, take a break on one of the benches. Or look at the statues dedicated to Plymouth’s history, including the Pilgrim Maiden Statue.

We enjoyed seeing what we could find along the brook. Not only did we spot some birds and fish, but we also found a turtle or two.

While the gardens are a perfect place to enjoy some downtime, we recommend you use them as the pathway to get from Leyden Street (or your lunch stop) to your next activity, the Grist Mill.

6. Plimoth Grist Mill

The Plimoth Grist Mill is a reconstructed mill that offers visitors a chance to see how flour was made in the days of the settlers.

The original mill dates back to 1636. It was essential to the Pilgrims, who used the mill to grind corn into flour.

Unfortunately, the mill burned down in 1837. The replica you see today was built in 1970, but care was taken to see that it works as it once did.

During our visit, we spent time outside watching the water wheel that powers the mill stones. Then we headed inside to see how the corn was ground into flour. It was fascinating to see how it all worked.

In addition to watching the process, the mill has a shop where you can purchase freshly-made flour and other goods.

7. Plimoth Patuxet

Plimoth Patuxet is an interactive, living museum that offers visitors the chance to experience life in early America. Split into two areas, you can visit the 17th Century English Village and the Historic Patuxet as part of your visit.

The English Village is a recreation of the original Plymouth settlement. It’s staffed by people who dress and act like they’re from that period.

It’s interesting to see how they lived and worked, and it’s an excellent opportunity to ask questions about what life was like back then.

Historic Patuxet allows visitors to explore the history and culture of the Native American people that lived in the area at the time of the Mayflower landing.

There are some interactive exhibits and opportunities to learn about cooking and building canoes from local Native Americans.

If you arrive by around 2:30 pm, you should have plenty of time to look around. While you could certainly find things to keep you busy for a full day, we feel 2-3 hours will be plenty for the average person.

📎 Tip: Combo tickets to Plimoth Patuxet, Mayflower II, and Plimoth Grist Mill are available and will save you a bit. You can choose to do all three or pick one activity to do with Plimoth Patuxet.

➡️ Book your combo tickets to spend some time in the 1620s

8. Sacrifice Rock

Did you know there is another rock in Plymouth besides Plymouth Rock?

Sacrifice Rock is a significant historical landmark in Plymouth, Ma, related to the local Native American tribe. The rock was used by the Wampanoag tribe long before the Pilgrims ever arrived.

As Native American travelers passed through what would later be Plymouth, they would leave a small token, like branches or stones, atop the rock. It is believed to have signified a sacrifice and asking for safe passage along the route.

There was at one time a significant stick creation from the generations of travelers who had left their offerings. Unfortunately, it burned down long ago.

While similar to Plymouth Rock in that it is just a boulder to look at for a few minutes, it is worthy of a stop.

It is essential to realize that there is history in the area that is not just about the Pilgrims. There was another culture here thriving before settlers arrived, and that history is also important.

Plymouth, Ma, Tourist Attractions For The Evening

Now that evening is upon us; you have some decisions to make. Dinner is a must, but we have two options for after that you can choose from to end your day.

9. Dinner at the Waterfront

The waterfront district of Plymouth is teeming with dining options that offer culinary delights.

This area is known for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood, so this is your chance to indulge in some of the best clam chowder, lobster rolls, and fish and chips in New England.

One of the gems here is Wood’s Seafood.

Nestled in the heart of the historic Plymouth Harbor, this restaurant offers tantalizing dishes and panoramic views of the waterfront, the bustling Plymouth Rock marina, and the shimmering sea beyond.

The serene beauty of the sunset here is second to none.

Or try the Waterfront Bar and Grill.

This stylish restaurant features an outdoor seating area perfect for those long, warm summer nights.

You can enjoy a wide range of dishes, from classic seafood platters to inventive contemporary cuisine, all while basking in the peaceful ambiance of the harbor lights reflecting off the water.

Dining at the waterfront in Plymouth is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

The aroma of the fresh catch from the ocean, the sight of the sun setting over the calm water, the sound of the waves lightly crashing against the docks, and the taste of the authentic New England flavors – all come together to create an unforgettable evening in this historic city.

10. Option 1: Ghost Tour

After dinner, prepare for an evening of intrigue and a dash of spine-chilling excitement.

The Plymouth Night Tour isn’t just your ordinary city walk—it’s an immersive journey into the eerie past of one of America’s oldest towns.

Once the sun sets and the streets grow quiet, a different side of Plymouth comes alive.

The tour is led by expert guides who are not only well-versed in local history, but are also great storytellers.

As they lead you through shadowy lanes and moonlit paths, they weave tales of actual historical events with accounts of ghostly sightings and unexplained occurrences, turning familiar streets into a backdrop for the supernatural.

One of the key highlights is Burial Hill, one of the oldest cemeteries in Plymouth. As you walk among the tombstones dating back to the 17th century, the chilling tales of those who rest here will make the hair on the back of your neck stand up.

The tour perfectly blends history, mystery, and just the right amount of fright for an unforgettable night in Plymouth.

Just remember, you’ve been warned; expect a few goosebumps along the way!

➡️ Book your hair-raising walk among the dead

11. Option 2: Stargazing At Myles Standish State Forest

As your day in Plymouth comes to a close, there’s no better way to end it than with a tranquil escape to the nearby Myles Standish State Forest for a stargazing session.

A short drive from Plymouth, this state forest covers over 16,000 acres of pine barrens and scattered kettle ponds, creating a unique and serene environment largely devoid of light pollution.

This makes it an ideal location for observing the night sky in all its grandeur.

As your eyes adjust, the stars begin to twinkle into view. Constellations start to take shape, and if you’re lucky and the conditions are right, you might even glimpse a shooting star.

On a moonless night, the Milky Way spreads across the sky like a luminous ribbon, a sight for amateur and experienced stargazers alike.

Stargazing at Myles Standish State Forest is an experience that connects you with nature and the universe beyond, providing a beautiful and profound conclusion to your day in Plymouth.

Places To Go In Plymouth If You Have More Time Or Want To Swap Stops

Did you finish early? Or just aren’t interested in one of the options we provided? Here are a couple of alternatives to spend your time.

12. First Parish Church

The First Parish Church in Plymouth is a historic church that has been around since the early days of the Plymouth colony and is often cited as one of the oldest churches in the U.S.

The church was founded in 1620, though the building that can be seen today is not the original.

There have been five versions of the building to sit at this location. The Pilgrims initially started with a small, simple wooden structure.

Today, you see the final version, built in 1899, after the previous version burned in a fire.

The buildings have played an essential role in the history of Plymouth, serving as both church services and a meeting hall.

If you stop by the church and can look inside, take note of the windows that tell the story of the Pilgrims.

📎 Tip: Make sure you swing by Burial Hill, located right behind the church. This cemetery has markers so old they are now unreadable.

13. Pilgrim Hall Museum

If you’re interested in learning more about the Pilgrims who came to America in 1620, the Pilgrim Hall Museum is a must-visit.

The museum is home to the world’s most extensive collection of Pilgrim artifacts. It offers visitors a chance to learn about every aspect of their lives.

You can see everything from tools and furniture to documents and books. The museum even has items like a cradle and sword known to have been on the Mayflower voyage from England.

You can also find exhibits about the Wampanoag tribe. How they interacted with and helped the Pilgrims during those first years was critical to their survival.

And if all those artifacts aren’t interesting enough, you can touch a small hunk of Plymouth Rock during your visit.

Rundown Of The Places To Go In Plymouth

Whew! That was a lot, right? Let’s recap it into a concise list to make things easier on the go.

Recap Of Your Day Out In Plymouth

• Mayflower II
• Plymouth Rock
• Cole’s Hill Burial Ground
• Leyden St & the Old Homes
• Brewster Gardens
• Plimoth Grist Mill
• Plimoth Patuxet
• Sacrifice Rock
• Dinner At The Waterfront
• Option 1: Ghost Tour
• Option 2: Stargazing at Myles Standish State Forest
• Extras/Other Options: First Parish Church & Pilgrim Hall Museum

Map For Spending One Day in Plymouth

We love a good map, don’t you? We have created this one just for you with all our attractions marked.

The purple icons indicate the stops we think you will have time for and are the ones we highly recommend you stop during your one day in Plymouth.

The light green icons indicate the extra options we provided in case you have extra time or want to swap something out due to a lack of interest.

Where To Stay In Plymouth

We recommend staying the night if possible so you can enjoy the evening activities without feeling rushed to head back to a nearby city. Here are some options.

Luxury 💵 💵 💵 – Mirbeau Inn & Spa

• Offers an expansive, state-of-the-art spa facility where you can unwind and enjoy a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps
• Boasts an exceptional on-site restaurant, serving delicious gourmet meals prepared using locally-sourced ingredients
• Provides a beautiful, tranquil setting with Monet-inspired gardens, a lily pond, and beautiful architecture

➡️ Check Availability & Prices at Mirbeau Inn & Spa

Mid-Range 💵 💵 – Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

• Hotel’s location is perfect for exploring Plymouth as it is conveniently situated near top attractions like Plymouth Rock, Plimoth Plantation, and the Mayflower II
• Enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to a fitness center and indoor pool
• Rooms and suites offer comfortable bedding and contemporary design

➡️ Check Availability & Prices at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

Budget 💵 – Holiday Inn Express

• Offers excellent accommodations at a more affordable price point, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers
• Part of a well-known hotel chain so you can expect consistent, high-quality service and amenities, including a complimentary breakfast and 24-hour business center
• The location provides easy access to the highway, making it simple to reach Plymouth’s attractions, as well as nearby cities if you want to make Plymouth your hub

➡️ Check Availability & Prices at Holiday Inn Express

Best Ways To Get Around Plymouth

Plymouth’s downtown area is perfect for walking. In fact, 80% of our suggested itinerary can be done by walking between the sites as they are quite close.

Plus, walking around the city allows you to stumble across other historic sites we didn’t mention in our post that may draw your attention.

We chose to walk, and while we were there on a scorching hot summer day, we don’t regret it.

If we had been driving, we wouldn’t have seen some of the incredible buildings and homes we just happened upon as we walked from one place to the next.

Regarding our day trip to Plymouth itinerary, the only options you don’t want to walk to are Plimoth Patuxet and Sacrifice Rock. These will be a bit far as they are 3+ miles from the city center.

If you want to do less walking, you can hop on a shuttle during the summer months of July and August. It will take you to all the popular spots, including Plimoth Patuxet.

You can also grab an Uber or Lyft.

Heading to Plymouth On A Tour

If you are in Boston and choose not to rent a car, have no fear! You can still visit Plymouth on an exciting and fun tour for one day.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of New England by taking a full-day guided tour from Boston to Plymouth.

This trip, which includes pickup from select hotels, lets you explore the iconic sites of Massachusetts without any of the stress of driving or navigating.

Your day starts with a scenic drive through Quincy, the birthplace of two U.S. Presidents, and continues along the beautiful South Shore coastal area.

Upon arriving in Plymouth, you’ll get a glimpse of life in the 17th century at the Plimoth Plantation Museum with a skip-the-line ticket. You will then visit Plymouth Harbor, view the famous Plymouth Rock, and have some free time for lunch (not included in the tour price).

A tour of the Mayflower II, a replica of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to the New World, is also included in your itinerary. It’s an immersive way to learn the fascinating history of the Pilgrims.

The tour concludes with a stop in Scituate to view the historic Scituate Lighthouse and a drive through other coastal towns, offering you a chance to marvel at the stunning coastline and lavish mansions lining the way.

➡️ Book Boston To Plymouth Day Trip

Tips For Your One Day In Plymouth

Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your day trip to Plymouth.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You will be doing a lot of walking in Plymouth.

Fortunately, most of the historically relevant locations you visit are relatively close together.

But you will still be moving and on your feet the entire day. So wear shoes you know you will be comfortable in all day.

Spend Some Time Wandering

Our suggestions will keep you busy for your day in Plymouth. But one of the best things we did during our visit was spend a bit of time just wandering around.

In fact, seeing Leyden Street was pure luck as we hadn’t heard of it before our visit and found it because we were nearby at Brewster Park.

While we have filled your day with options, give yourself time to wander and look around as you see fit.

Don’t Fret If You Can’t See It All

We have made this itinerary based on what we did on our day trip to Plymouth. Just like you, we only had one day to see the city.

But everyone spends different amounts of time at museums, etc., based on their interests. And you may want to spend more time just wandering around than we did (we spent about an hour after lunch).

So pick the top sites you want to see and hit those first.

If the day gets away from you and you haven’t seen everything, that is OK. You can always come back in the future!

Day Trips Near Plymouth

Looking for other places to see in the area? Maybe you are making Plymouth your hub and branching out from here.

Many places to visit aren’t too far from Plymouth; two of our favorites were Rockport and Salem .

But here are a couple of options you may not have thought of.

Provincetown

If you want to continue a historical tour regarding the Pilgrims, Provincetown is the perfect spot to head next.

Located at Cape Cod’s tip , the Pilgrims first landed here on their journey to the New World.

The landing is commemorated with the tallest granite tower in the U.S. Climb to the top for stunning views.

Cape Cod National Seashore

Also located on Cape Cod, the Cape Cod National Seashore has some beautiful beaches (6 in total!).

If you want a fun, relaxing day in the sun, this trip is perfect.

If you don’t want to lounge in the sun, consider looking at all the lighthouses along the shoreline. Or do some hiking or birdwatching.

It’s a great place to get out in nature after spending time in the local cities.

FAQs For Visiting Plymouth, Ma

Let’s answer some common questions about Plymouth.

What Is Plymouth Known For?

Plymouth, Massachusetts, is known as the site of the first Pilgrim settlement in 1620 and the celebrated location of Plymouth Rock. It’s recognized for its rich history, including landmarks like the Mayflower II replica, Plimoth Patuxet, and its picturesque New England coastal charm.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Plymouth, Ma?

The best time to visit Plymouth, Ma, is from late spring through fall (May to October). These months offer pleasant weather. This makes it ideal for exploring historical sites, enjoying the waterfront, and participating in outdoor activities. Autumn is particularly scenic due to vibrant fall foliage.

Is Plymouth, Ma, Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Plymouth, Ma, is a significant historical destination worth visiting. It’s home to iconic landmarks like Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower II, offers engaging tours like the Plimoth Patuxet, and provides a charming New England coastal experience with beautiful views, local cuisine, and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Is It Free To See Plymouth Rock?

Yes, it’s free to see Plymouth Rock. The monument in Pilgrim Memorial State Park is open to the public without charge. However, other attractions in the area, such as the Mayflower II have admission fees.

Which Is Better, Jamestown Or Plymouth?

Choosing between Jamestown and Plymouth depends on personal interests. As the first permanent English settlement in America, Jamestown offers rich history centered on early colonial and Native American life. Plymouth, known for the Pilgrims and Plymouth Rock, provides a unique glimpse into the lives of early European settlers. Both locations offer significant historical insight.

To Finish – Best Things To See On A Day Trip To Plymouth

Concluding a day trip to Plymouth, you’ll find yourself rich in experiences that span the tapestry of America’s earliest history.

From standing on the same ground as the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock, boarding the recreated Mayflower II, and stepping back in time at Plimoth Patuxet living museum, Plymouth truly is a treasure trove of historical wonder.

As the sun sets over this charming coastal town, you’re left with a deeper understanding of our nation’s roots, unforgettable memories, and perhaps a newfound appreciation for the adventure that is American history.

Please Share If You Enjoyed!

Jenny Sullivan, owner of Traveling In Focus, is a national park travel expert with a photography degree who has been traveling around not only North America for more than 30 years but also exploring abroad since the age of 13. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of travel through national park guides, planning tips, and photography tricks.

Her latest adventure is an extended RV trip throughout the U.S. and Canada that has her exploring some hidden gems that are sure to end up on your next bucket list.

20 Best Things To Do In Plymouth, MA

Looking for the best things to do in Plymouth, MA? Whether you’re a history buff looking to visit all the sites or prefer to stay active in nature, Plymouth has something for you.

Plymouth boasts of a rich American history that attracts many visitors. It was the first place the Pilgrims settled in the new world alongside the native Wampanoag people, making it an ideal destination for history buffs.

Its rich historical background is characterized by buildings, museums, artifacts, a replica of the original Mayflower ship, the stepping stone from the ship, burial grounds, and monuments. 

Besides historical attractions, there are other exciting things you can do in Plymouth, MA including swimming, kayaking, hiking, fishing, watching a movie and star constellations, attending the Plymouth Mass of Thanksgiving, beer and wine sampling, and falling in love with mother nature through experiencing whale-watching, the lush gardens, and nature trails. 

In this article, we’ve discussed the various things you can do while in Plymouth. Read on to find out more. 

Table of Contents

The Best Things To Do In Plymouth, MA

Learn about history at the plimoth patuxet museums .

The Plimoth Patuxet Living History Museums is a collection of Plymouth’s museums. They offer a historical background of how the Native Americans in Plymouth lived before the arrival of the English settlers. Most people know the museum by its former name, Plimoth Plantation.

The largest installation of the museums is the 17th-century English Village. It constitutes a historic Patuxet mimicking the original settlement of the Wampanoag people. You can learn how to make a mishoon (canoe) and understand how natives lived in a wetu (a winter house) at the historic Patuxet.

Also, passionate customed reenactors provide a guided tour through the two-story building and house of Governor William Bradford and other Plymouth founders.  

You can  get a combo ticket  to the historic sites and travel aboard the Mayflower II for as low as $32.

Climb Aboard the Mayflower II

Mayflower II is a full-size live replica of the original Mayflower ship that transported 102 pilgrim settlers to Plymouth MA. It’s docked at the Pilgrim Memorial State Park and forms part of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. 

The experience of boarding this historic monument is one of the best things to do in Plymouth. This waterfront exhibit has tour guides to educate you on the voyage of the English settlers. They do this through lively family-friendly role-playing activities. 

See Plymouth Rock at Pilgrim Memorial State Park 

According to popular belief, Plymouth Rock was the stepping stone of the pilgrims from the original Mayflower. This rock led to the establishment of the Plymouth colony, the first in the new world. And that’s why Plymouth County is regarded as America’s hometown. 

The rock is housed under a granite portico to protect it. The portico is registered in the National Register of Historic Places, thus gaining popularity as one of the popular places to visit in Plymouth. 

While you might be underwhelmed by the small size of Plymouth Rock, its historical importance and scenic views over the Plymouth Harbor are a beauty to watch making it worth visiting.

Plymouth Rock is located at 79 Water Street, Plymouth, MA 02360 . 

Take a Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour of Plymouth 

You can  take a self-guided historical walking tour  of America’s hometown once you download the Tour Guide App. The app has a live GPS map with images, text, and audio guides to famous landmarks and attraction sites in Plymouth.

You’ll have access to these links for life, therefore, offering you a flexible travel schedule. The App also plays stories automatically based on your GPS and you don’t have to be online to use it. 

The app is accessible for as low as $8, but entry tickets and attraction costs aren’t covered on the app. 

Learn More about Pilgrims at Pilgrim Hall Museum

The Pilgrim Hall Museum houses the original artifacts of the Pilgrims from their voyage in England. Some of the popular artifacts worth touring are Myles Standish’s sword, the cradle of Peregrine White born aboard the Mayflower, and Governor Bradford’s bible. 

The museum also focuses on how the Wampanoag, the original inhabitants of Plymouth, interacted with the English settlers throughout history, their conflicts, and their challenges. The museum is also home to the Sparrow Hawk shipwreck of 1626, off Cape Cod.

Admission tickets to the Pilgrim Hall Museum cost $15 per adult and it operates from Wednesday to Sunday. The museum’s location is 75 Court Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Visit Burial Hill

Burial Hill was the final laying grounds of the Pilgrims and dates back to 1681. It falls under the National Register of Historic Places and has invaluable stone art that is one of the earliest countrywide. One of the things to do at this historic site is to track down the deaths of the Mayflower passengers on the graveyard’s headstone.

It’s worth noting that the initial burial ground of the Pilgrims was at Cole’s Hill before moving it to Burial Hill. The bones present at Cole’s Hill were exhumed and placed in a huge coffin that visitors can see while in Plymouth. The hill is above the original settlement of the Pilgrims and features the statute of Massasoit. 

The address of Burial Hill is School Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts.

See the National Monument to Our Forefathers

The National Monument to Our Forefathers is the largest solid granite monument worldwide. The 81-foot monument was completed in 1888 and honors the first pilgrims in Plymouth, MA. It faces Plymouth, England where the pilgrims originated.  

What’s more, the monument honors the virtues of the first pilgrims with its allegorical figures. These sculptures, at the side, represent Law, Liberty, Morality, and Education, while the middle one represents Faith. You must get up close to the sides of the monument to see lists of the pilgrims aboard the Mayflower. 

The initial plans of the monument were twice its current height (almost taller than the Statute of Liberty). You can access this historic site at Allerton Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Check Out the Jabez Howland House

The Jabez Howland House is a great place to visit since it’s the only free-standing house present in Plymouth where Pilgrims lived.  

The house was turned into a museum and artifacts like tools, documents, and household equipment were preserved to tell the history of the Pilgrims. 

The house is located at 33 Sandwich Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Wander Through Brewster Gardens

Brewster Gardens consists of the settler’s earliest freshwater source, Town Brook. The source still flows through the garden offering the best place for a picnic in the well-maintained lawns.

If you are a nature buff, get active and follow the nature trail surrounding the lush garden. Brewster Garden is one of the best places to wander through because of its relaxing effect.

It’s located at 30 Water St, Plymouth, MA. 

Stroll Leyden Street 

Leyden Street is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the United States and arguably the first street in America. It’s a great place to visit if you want to look back in time and see how settlers lived. 

The street is named after Leyden City, Netherlands, where the Pilgrim’s religious freedom was found.  

Sample local wine & beer 

If you’re looking for adult-related activities to do in Plymouth, visit the following places;

The Mayflowe r Brewing Company offers visitors a chance to sample freshly brewed beers and signature brews. Live music and food events are also present throughout the year making it a worthy stop-over. The company is situated at 12 Resnik Rd, Plymouth, MA.

The Plymouth Bay Winery produces wine from locally sourced raw materials. You can sample their bottles of wine with cheese and crackers or decide to have your bottle of wine by the glass while touring the facility. The winery is located at 114 Water St, Plymouth, MA. 

Watch a Show at the Americana Theatre Company

The Americana Theatre Company offers year-long live performances featuring professional actors, directors, and set designers. You must pass by the theatre to watch shows in comedy, musicals, mysteries, and family shows.

You can get your ticket and drop by 25 1/2 Court Street, Plymouth, Massachusetts for an eventful night.

Visit the Plimoth Grist Mill 

The Plimoth Grist Mill was formerly known as Jenney Grist Mill. The mill is a replica of its predecessor and it still functions the same as before by using water from Town Brook to power its waterwheel when grinding corn. 

This historical site is part of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. It’s among the best places to visit with kids because of the hands-on activities involved in operating the mill. You can check it out at 6 Spring Lane, Plymouth, MA.

Get Outside 

For those who love the outdoors, Plymouth has plenty to showcase through the following facilities;

Morton Park offers a ton of activities to do. They include swimming, relaxing by the shoreline, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, or bike-riding along its nature trails. The park gains its popularity as the largest in Plymouth with restrooms, concessions, and lifeguards on standby. 

Myles Standish State Forest is a breathtaking forest that nature lovers will want to explore its cycling and walking nature trails. Or, go swimming, fishing, or kayaking on one of its ponds, which popularize the forest as one of the favorite in the state. The forest’s address is  60 Beaver Dam Road, Plymouth, MA.

Nelson Memorial Park is a park with sandy beaches allowing you to sunbathe. It’s also a popular attraction park for families with kids because the children’s park and splash pad are present for kids to enjoy. The park’s location is 255 Water St, Plymouth, MA.

Visit Plymouth Beach

Plymouth beach is filled with fun activities, restaurants, art exhibitions, and entertainment from the Plymouth Waterfront Amphitheater every August. These water street events celebrate The Waterfront Festival, the biggest annual event in Plymouth.

Get out on the Water 

One of the best day trips you must make in Plymouth is a whale-watching excursion trip to the waterfront area. Sightings may include humpback, pilot, finback, mink, and right whales. 

You can enjoy this exercise aboard  Captain John Boats , which also offers private charters, deep-sea fishing, harbor cruises, and a ferry run to Provincetown. 

Walk Through the Oldest House in Plymouth (Sparrow House)

Apart from being Plymouth’s oldest house, the Sparrow House is the oldest brick house in North America. It’s supposed to be the grandest house of its time dating back to the late 1930s.

Take a Tour of the Mayflower Society House

The Mayflower Society House is an important historical site as it played a hand in the American Revolution story. The house also accounts for the World War II story as it was the Red Cross headquarters. It also facilitated the wedding of Ralph Waldo Emerson. 

Visit the historical site from May through to October at 4 Winslow Street, Plymouth, MA.

See the Stars at the W. Russell Blake Planetarium

You and your family can learn how to use a sky map by gazing at a DigitalSky projection at the W. Russell Blake Planetarium. You’ll get to do this by identifying constellations, planets, and other astronomical features. 

The facility is at 117 Long Pond Road Plymouth, MA.

Watch the Plymouth Thanksgiving Parade

Come and participate in beer pongs, wine festivals, live music, truckloads of food, a live parade, and re-enact crucial historic events of the 17th to 20th century while celebrating the annual Plymouth Mass of Thanksgiving at the waterfront and harbor area.

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Downtown Plymouth Is The Perfect Seaside Town, But Is It Worth Visiting? This Itinerary Says 'Yes'

It made history as the first place of landfall for the pilgrims in 1620, and it's the perfect balance of modern and (very) historic.

Plymouth, Massachusetts is home to some of the most historical moments in America's history. It also happens to be a beautiful, sleepy seaside town that's home to more than a few ways to pass the time. This small New England town is completely walkable and is far quieter than one would expect, with the harbor full of local boats and the famed Plymouth Rock only a short distance away. So, is it worth visiting?

Related: What Really Happened To The 'Lost Colony' At Roanoke? These Are The Best Theories

In short, the answer is yes. Most historical things around Plymouth can be seen in about two days, with the rest of a weekend encompassing its local dining and other activities, such as whale watching. It's the perfect destination for a long weekend, a great family-friendly place to learn about one of the country's first settlements , and the Native Americans who called this land home long before that. In Plymouth, it's not a question of whether it's worth it, it's a question of, "when should we go?" And here are all the reasons why.

Where To Stay

It might be small, but Plymouth has no shortage of places to spend the night. Visitors will find anything from historic inns such as the John Carver Inn to cozy bed and breakfasts, many with views of the surrounding town or the harbor.

There's never any shortage of accommodations that will make guests feel as though they've found a nautical home during their stay, and there's something intimate and homey about Plymouth's array of bookings. Perhaps it's being able to wake up to the sound of seagulls over the water, or knowing you can walk down to the harbor first thing in the morning - either way, it's magical. No matter where you stay, make sure it's somewhere in or close to Plymouth's historic downtown area.

What To Eat

Of course, there's no shortage of seafood in a coastal New England town like this. Most people will immediately be drawn to the Town Wharf which is just past Water Street around the traffic circle. This entire waterfront area gives way to many dining options, most of which have waterfront views. If you're staying downtown, these will all be within a five to ten-minute walk. The Lobster Hut is a great place for local seafood at great prices, with some of the best views of the harbor in Plymouth. The food is classic New England-style and the outdoor deck offers the best seating around.

Further back from the harbor along Water Street, visitors will find bar and grill options, a wine bar, and some other diverse dining options, all of which are highly rated for the food and atmosphere. On the opposite side near Pilgrim Memorial State Park, visitors will find pub options and some cafes. After dinner, it's highly recommended that a visit to Cupcake Charlie's is in order for some of the best (and most unique) cupcake flavors around. Kilwin's is also a worthy stop for desserts such as ice cream, fudge, and other treats. For comfort food, Mamma Mia's is an absolute must - it's home to some of the best Italian food in the area and also offers harborside views. Near Main Street, visitors can find even more dining options from taverns to breweries and even a winery, and it's worth exploring if you're up for a walk - this is a hub for good eats! In the morning, head down to Blue Blinds Bakery, a landmark staple downtown that offers a great cup of coffee and the best pastries around.

Explore the waterfront! This is the easiest thing to do and it's also free unless you've signed up for some tours; Plymouth Rock can be seen just past Pilgrim Memorial State Park, which is also worth exploring as it's fairly small and incredibly scenic. At the end of Frazier State Pier, visitors will find the Mayflower II, which is a nearly exact replica of the original Mayflower that made landfall not far from where its replica sits today.

Visits to the Massasoit Statue and Pilgrim Mother Fountain are also easy walks from the Mayflower II, with Plymouth Rock in between them and the William Bradford Statue to follow. Right across from this is Coles Hill Burial Ground which serves as the final resting ground for many of the passengers who were on the Mayflower.

By looping back up Carver Street, visitors will find themselves in the heart of historic downtown, where they can take a guided tour of the Mayflower Society House or sign up for a lantern tour of Plymouth (or a spooky night tour!). The Pilgrim Hall Museum should also be on the list, as it's the oldest museum in the country and gives guests a detailed, and full, history of what it was like for the earliest settlers coming to America.

This will bring visitors full-circle back to the same area of the Wharf, just in time to head into the center of the town square and do some shopping at some of Plymouth's most unique and historic boutique shops. Or, take a queue from the boats entering the harbor and head out for a whale tour (schedules change seasonally).

Next: This Is What It Would Have Been Like To Be At The Very First Thanksgiving

The best time to visit Massachusetts for a dose of New England magic

May 14, 2022 • 7 min read

It's always a good time to come to Massachusetts © Huntstock / DisabilityImages / Getty Images

Massachusetts is a year-round destination that's worth a visit in any season, but different times of year show off different sides to the Bay State, from historic Boston to the beaches of Cape Cod.

In spring, the state’s parks and gardens burst into bloom as the darkness and chill of winter recede. Summer brings heat and rather oppressive humidity but a fun-filled calendar of events. When autumn arrives, the brilliant fall colors draw busloads of eager leaf peepers. Winter is slower in many parts of the state, but less so in Boston and the winter sports destinations in western and central Massachusetts.

Whether you're here for the American icons or the beaches, here’s our guide to the best times to visit Massachusetts.

High season is the best time for beaches and festivals (mid-May–early September)

May and early June are usually beautiful times of year, with comfortable temperatures and abundant flowers. This is a good time to explore the cities, but as the weather grows increasingly hot and muggy, many people head to Cape Cod , the islands offshore, and higher-elevation spots inland such as the Berkshires .

Hotel rates are highest in July and August when the ocean and lakes have warmed up and school holidays swell visitor numbers. By early September, the crowds have thinned, but water temperatures remain comfortable. Massachusetts is also a great destination for whale-watching, with excursions operating from late April to mid-October from Boston, Gloucester, Plymouth, and other towns along the coast.

The fall peak season is the best time for leaf peepers (late September–October)

As temperatures cool and leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange and gold, visitors from near and far descend on Massachusetts to experience the state's fall colors. In September and early October, many visitors use the Bay State as a staging post on the way to northern New England , but as the season advances and the peak color moves south, Massachusetts itself takes center stage. Book hotels and rental cars in advance to ensure availability and better rates.

Shoulder season is the best time for deals with decent weather (April & November)

Massachusetts has two shoulder seasons. April sees the arrival of spring flowers, and fall colors are increasingly likely to linger into early November with changes to the climate. These months are well worth considering if you’re hoping to save money while avoiding the bitter cold of winter.

However, don’t expect hotel deals in Boston around Patriots' Day on the third Monday in April – also known as Marathon Monday. The week of the marathon coincides with spring break in Massachusetts, so family-friendly attractions and activities may be busier.

The 10 best hiking trails in Massachusetts  

Low season is the best time for winter sports and fewer crowds (December–March)

Winter is a quiet time in many parts of Massachusetts, especially around Cape Cod and the islands, though Boston attracts visitors year-round with its many museums and busy schedule of holiday events.

Further west, ski resorts in the Berkshires and central Massachusetts are typically open by mid-December, if not earlier. Winters in the state are typically quite snowy, though climate change is having an impact.

However, winter can be a good time to experience a different side of Cape Cod, particularly if you’re interested in quiet walks on virtually deserted beaches, rather than battling the summer crowds for space to sunbathe and swim.

January is the best time to visit museums 

Typically the coldest month of the year, January is a good time to explore Massachusetts’ many excellent museums. If you need some outdoor time, bundle up for some ice skating on Boston Common or skiing in the Berkshires. Key event: Boston Wine & Food Festival

Avoid the crowds in February 

February offers more of the same, weather-wise, but with a slight rise in temperature and noticeably longer days. Boston's busy Chinatown is a lively place to be for the Chinese New Year celebrations (which can also fall in late January). Key event: Chinese New Year (Boston)

Celebrate St Patrick’s Day in March 

The weather in March is usually a mixed bag, with brighter days and early signs of spring alternating with cold days that serve as a reminder that winter isn’t over yet. Thanks to Massachusetts’ large population of Irish Americans, St Patrick’s Day is a major event in Boston and around the state. Key events: St Patrick’s Day parades (statewide), Dine Out Boston

Expect large crowds in April for Patriots' Day

By April, it’s usually starting to feel like spring, though the odd spot of late-season snow is not unheard of. On the third Monday in the month, the statewide Patriots' Day holiday commemorates the start of the Revolutionary War, coinciding with the annual Boston Marathon , one of the biggest races in the US and a Boston Red Sox professional baseball game. Key events: Patriots' Day battle reenactments (statewide), Boston Marathon, Nantucket Daffodil Festival

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Enjoy the spring flowers in May

May is one of the loveliest months in Massachusetts, with spring flowers in full bloom and warm weather, but without the high humidity of summer. Key events: Duckling Day (Boston), Lilac Sunday (Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, Boston), Boston Calling Music Festival

Listen to the symphony in June

As temperatures rise, the festival-filled summer season begins statewide, including the start of the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s summer season at Tanglewood , inland from Boston on the way to Albany. There's plenty more on the cultural calendar to keep you busy. Key events: Boston Pride Week , Nantucket Film Festival , Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival (The Berkshires), St Peter’s Fiesta (Gloucester), Rockport Music Festivals

July is the best time for festivals 

July is the hottest month of the year, with humidity levels that can make Massachusetts' cities feel like ovens. Expect crowds in Cape Cod, the islands and other popular seaside destinations. If you’re willing to brave the urban heat, you’ll find many great festivals around the state. Key events: Boston Pops Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular , Boston Harborfest , New Bedford Folk Festival , Festival Betances (Boston), Lowell Folk Festival , Shakespeare on the Common (Boston)

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Head to the beach in August

August is another month of heat and humidity, but also fun annual events. Beaches remain crowded, with water temperatures at their warmest. Key events: Falmouth Road Race , Feast of the Blessed Sacrament (New Bedford), Marshfield Fair

Crowds begin to dwindle in September

After Labor Day, the crowds die down in beach towns as schools reopen and summer visitors head home. However, water temperatures remain warm for those who linger. As the month continues, the first fall colors typically begin to appear on trees. Key events: The Big E (West Springfield), Franklin County Fair , King Richard’s Faire (Carver)

October is for leaf peeping

October is one of the most spectacular months of the year, with fall foliage repainting trees throughout Massachusetts in stunning shades of red, orange and gold. In Boston, the Head of the Charles Regatta weekend in mid-October attracts big crowds, while in Salem , month-long Halloween celebrations draw legions of costumed visitors to the Witch City. Key events: Salem Haunted Happenings , Topsfield Fair , Head of the Charles Regatta , Wellfleet Oysterfest , King Richard’s Faire (continues)

Sip cider in November 

The approach of winter brings shorter days, but fall colors linger into the early part of the month in some locations in the state. Harvest festivals celebrate the season’s bounty, leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday on the fourth Thursday of the month. Key events: America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Celebration (Plymouth), Franklin County Cider Days

December is full of holiday celebrations and festive cheer

The dark, cold days of early winter brighten with holiday festivities throughout the month, culminating in Boston’s famous First Night celebrations on New Year’s Eve. Key events: Holiday Zoolights at Stone Zoo (Stoneham), Nantucket Christmas Stroll , First Night Boston

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Best Time To Visit Plymouth

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What is the best time to visit Plymouth?

The best time to visit Plymouth is from mid-June to October, the summer months. Although the warm weather is best for outdoor activities and exploring the historical sites, the fall brings with it the Cranberry festival. The foliage is a sight to behold, and although the weather turns cold, it is an excellent time to be in the city. The winters are in full swing from November to February, and that makes it difficult to go around the city. Many facilities are not operating full time during winters, and hence it is best to avoid this offseason.

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MEDIA ADVISORY: Plimoth Patuxet Museums Updates Transit Schedule for Mayflower II’s Return to Plymouth Harbor from Mystic Seaport Museum

The ship’s travel schedule is entirely dependent on various factors such as weather conditions, and therefore subject to change without notice.

Plymouth, Massachusetts (April 9, 2024) – Plimoth Patuxet Museums, the acclaimed living history museum of 17th-century New England, announced today that Mayflower II , the Museum’s historic reproduction of the ship that carried the Pilgrims to the shores of Patuxet in 1620, is scheduled to begin the return journey from Mystic, Connecticut to her berth at the State Pier in Plymouth harbor at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 10th. Once the ship gets underway from Mystic Seaport Museum, the transit will be non-stop and will take approximately 20 to 25 hours to complete. Accompanied by Plimoth Patuxet’s Maritime Preservation and Operations team, the 106-foot ship will be towed by Stasinos Marine, based out of Weymouth.

The 67-year-old wooden vessel spent the winter months in dry dock at the Henry B. duPont Preservation Shipyard at Mystic Seaport for routine maintenance and painting. Plimoth Patuxet is grateful to the Institute of Museum and Library Services for the Save America’s Treasures grant which supported Mayflower II’s essential maintenance work, including cleaning, painting, and repairing of the vessel’s seams. This helps to mitigate damages caused by the environment.

“As pillars of our communities, libraries and museums bring people together by providing important programs, services, and collections. These institutions are trusted spaces where people can learn, explore and grow,” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper. “IMLS is proud to support their initiatives through our grants as they educate and enhance their communities."

“Since Mayflower II’ s arrival in 1957, the ship has been visited by millions of people from all over the world,” said Plimoth Patuxet Museums’ Executive Director Ellie Donovan. “We are thankful for IMLS recognizing the importance of this treasured landmark and for helping to ensure she will be preserved for generations to come.”

Plimoth Patuxet expects to open Mayflower II to the public on Saturday, April 13th at 9:00 a.m. For more information, visit plimoth.org. Track Mayflower II ’s progress along her journey and look for updates on Plimoth Patuxet’s Facebook page .

About Plimoth Patuxet

Plimoth Patuxet is one of the Nation’s foremost living history museums. Founded in 1947, the Museum creates engaging experiences of history built on thorough research about the Indigenous and European people who met along Massachusetts' historic shores of change in the 1600s. Immersive and educational encounters underscore the collaborations as well as the cultural clash and conflicts of the 17th-century people of this region. Major exhibits include the Historic Patuxet Homesite, the 17th-Century English Village, Mayflower II , and Plimoth Grist Mill. A private, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit educational institution, Plimoth Patuxet is supported by admission fees, donations, memberships, and revenue from a variety of educational programming, dining and gift shops. Plimoth Patuxet receives support from the Massachusetts Cultural Council, private foundations, corporations, and local businesses. Located less than an hour’s drive south of Boston, and 15 minutes north of Cape Cod, the Museum is open daily from early spring through the Sunday after Thanksgiving. For more information, visit plimoth.org . Follow the Museum on Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America's museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. IMLS envisions a nation where individuals and communities have access to museums and libraries to learn from and be inspired by the trusted information, ideas, and stories they contain about our diverse natural and cultural heritage. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

23+ of the Best Things To Do in Massachusetts

M assachusetts is one of the most desirable places to live, in both the country and in New England. It’s popular because you have everything at your fingertips, from skiing beautiful mountains to soaking up the sun at the beach.

The seasons also offer a rotating list of activities, so you are always on your toes. This list of things to do in Massachusetts, known as “The Bay State,” is truly an incredible list that I can personally vouch for. 

From historical sites, like Plymouth, to taking in the incredible art culture, like the Institute of Contemporary Art or the famous Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum — there is so much to see and do. Here are 23+ of the best things to do in Massachusetts that you just can’t miss.

VISIT PLYMOUTH

If you were paying attention in history class then you are likely to recognize the town of Plymouth . If you weren’t paying attention, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Plymouth is home to Plimoth Plantation , although the name has now been officially changed to the Plimoth Patuxet Museum. Here you can take a step back to the 17th century and learn about the Native Americans’ lifestyle when the Mayflower II  and the English colonists arrived. 

This American history museum truly has a lot to offer and can be a great place for not only adults, but kids as well. Founded in 1947, the goal of this museum is to recreate the Plymouth Colonization through several exciting exhibits. One of the best kids activities is their program to teach kids about Pilgrim life, while letting them be an actor/actress in a show later that day!

Plymouth is one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts.

OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE

Speaking of incredible museums to visit, Old Sturbridge Village has to be at the top of your list of things to do in Massachusetts. This living museum and working farm spans over 200 acres, and features more than 30 exhibits! This is the place to be if you have a lot of time on your hands, and you want to truly experience what it’s like to lead a life without technology during the 1830s. 

Popping in and out of the 40 antique buildings truly is like walking through a movie during this time period. Some of the more fascinating buildings are the Cider Mill, Shoe Shop, and Friends Meetinghouse. It’s also worth paying a visit to their gardens, since farming was in fact a major way of life.

A visit here is a great way for kiddos to burn energy, as there is so much open land to see.  

WALK THE HALLS OF HARVARD UNIVERSITY

Calling all geniuses! Harvard University is a great place to visit, and personally, Cambridge happens to be one of my favorite spots in Boston. (Don’t let anyone tell you it’s not a part of Boston, because it truly is.) 

First let’s take a look at Harvard. There are a few different options for tours, and you can sign up on their website for private or group walking tours. Or you can skip the group and download the app to take yourself on a self-guided tour that takes 45-60 minutes, with 14 different stops. The tour includes a stop at the famous Harvard Book Store, where you can buy souvenirs.

Harvard Square is also a great place to get a bite to eat or take in a true cup of Beantown coffee! Pavement Coffeehouse is worth a stop in. 

Read More: 40 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN BOSTON FOR A GOOD TIME

ENJOY THE PEABODY ESSEX MUSEUM

Hopping back on the museum train, one that is certainly a great stop is the Peabody Essex Museum . The museum is located in the historical city of Salem, Massachusetts, where the witch trials took place.

PEM takes a look at a vast collection of artwork and artifacts from the 1700s all the way to today! Interestingly enough, it also draws its inspiration from all over the world, from places such as Africa, Asia, India, and more.

Maritime life is incredibly important to the history of New England, and specifically the coastal towns in Massachusetts. The museum is another great spot for the family, and thanks to its modern approach combined with a classical history, it’s not a museum you will find many yawning at. 

Read More: 20 WITCHY THINGS TO DO IN SALEM MA YOU’LL LOVE

DODGE THE GHOSTS AT BOSTON’S OLD BURYING GROUNDS

Salem, Massachusetts, is not the only haunted place to explore. Boston’s Old Burying Grounds offers some really scary sights, with skulls and crossbones planted right on the front of gravestones. For those who like a little thrill, it’s best to go on a gloomy day.

It’s the oldest cemetery in the city of Boston, and was established in 1630. One of the most sought out headstones belongs to Joseph Tapping, and you can find it closest to the Tremont Street entrance. Sadly he passed at 23-years-old and is Boston’s most well-known gravestone, due to the unique engraving of the hour glass that sits on top of the skull. The symbolism represents appreciating the time you have. 

CHARLESTOWN NAVY YARD

Charlestown Navy Yard National Historic Site in Boston was one of the oldest shipbuilding facilities in the U.S. Navy. Established in 1801, the yard closed in 1974, after years of building, repairing, and modernizing ships.

Today, you can visit the Charlestown Navy Yard Visitors Center, where you’ll find interactive exhibits and more. The main draw is the two historic warships found here. Walk the decks of the USS Constitution and the USS Cassin Young — two ships that call the Navy Yard home.

Additionally, you can explore the USS Constitution Museum.

EXPLORE ISABELLA STEWART GARDNER MUSEUM

If you haven’t already watched the Netflix series on the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , then it’s worth a look before visiting. If you don’t have the time, that’s OK too, because this is one of the most interesting and appealing museums for several different reasons.

For starters, you are walking through a real crime scene! It’s home to one of the world’s largest mysteries — two men stole 13 works of art in April of 1990. The crime is the single largest property theft in the world.

In addition to that interesting history, the museum today has a number of fantastic exhibits, from modern and contemporary art to fine art and history of Europe.

One of the most attractive parts of the museum are the beautiful gardens. The Courtyard features different displays of seasonal flowers and installations making it a peaceful spot to read a book and enjoy the space. 

FERRY TO MARTHA’S VINEYARD

Martha’s Vineyard is one of the two hottest islands off the coast of Massachusetts to visit! The best part is that you don’t have to stay overnight if you don’t want to. Taking the Steamship Authority Ferry from Woods Hole and Falmouth is a great option. If you want to take your car, you can, but keep in mind that you want to make sure there is return availability on the ferry as well.

If you don’t have a car, no need to stress, because the MVTA has tons of bus routes to take you to all the best places. Gay Head Lighthouse is a beautiful place to visit, where you can take in the red clay cliffs and grab a bite to eat at their restaurant overlooking the ocean. Oak Bluffs is also a great little town that offers tons of shopping, boutique art galleries, and fine dining. 

Ultimately Martha’s Vineyard is known for having some of the best beaches and lobster rolls. Because it can get so packed in the summer, it’s never a bad idea to visit early spring or early fall. The weather is still nice and you can take advantage of renting bikes and exploring the island this way. 

Read More: 36 PHENOMENAL THINGS TO DO IN MARTHA’S VINEYARD

VISIT THE NORMAN ROCKWELL MUSEUM

Stockbridge, Massachusetts, is home to the Norman Rockwell Museum , which contains the largest collection of original Norman Rockwell art. For those who love and appreciate his works that reflect true American culture, this is a must-visit.

The museum has permanent exhibitions featuring his work, but to keep things fresh, they have a constant rotation of exhibits centered around the same concepts and ideologies. 

TOUR FENWAY PARK

If you’re going to be in Beantown, you’ve got to take a historic tour of Fenway Park . The best part of seeing one of America’s most beloved ballparks? You can check out the Green Monstah, which is a massive green seating section overlooking the entire field.

Fenway has a rich history, and a walking tour of this ballpark is the perfect family-friendly activity. When taking photos, the famous Citgo sign is a picture perfect memory, so make sure to grab a selfie!

Going with a group? Check out Fenway’s area. There are tons of bars and good eats, which is why going to an actual ball game is a lot of fun. Bleacher Bar is among the favorites of locals, and gets packed on the weekends and game days. 

OVERNIGHT IN THE BERKSHIRES

The Berkshires is known for some of the best skiing and the best hiking in all of New England. In the fall, you will take winding roads up and down throughout the mountains while looking at valleys and small ponds below. The Berkshires is also home to quite a few art museums and history, which makes for a good break when you need a break from the slopes.

The Berkshire Art Museum is definitely a favorite, and it’s located inside two repurposed buildings. One of the buildings resembles a beautiful church structure — which is amazing to see. While it may feature older architecture on the outside, it offers a modern take on the inside. Both permanent and temporary exhibits are featured within the 25,000 square foot space.

SEE THE ART AT MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, BOSTON

The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston , or MFA, is the 20th largest museum in the world. Here you can take in 8,161 paintings and 450,000 pieces of artwork! For art lovers, this is the ultimate destination, and features a vast collection of artwork from all over the world.

Some of the more recent exhibitions have taken a new look at the Winnie the Pooh, Japanese artwork, and more. If you can’t make a trip here in person, their virtual tours on their website make a great alternative.

GET YOUR HISTORY ON AT LEXINGTON COMMON NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

Massachusetts is home of The Revolutionary War (American Revolution) and some of the most important battles and events in history took place in Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts. In fact, this is where the first shots were fired. Stepping onto the green here is a history lover’s dream. 

There is such a wide variety of activities at the Lexington Common National Historic Site , from reading the plaques that sit on the outer edges of the park to just sitting back and enjoying a picnic. This park is close to many walking trails and hiking sites, as most of Lexington and Concord is wooded areas designated as state parks. 

SEE THE LIGHT(HOUSE) AT BOSTON HARBOR ISLANDS NATIONAL REC AREA

The Boston Light is a lighthouse that was built in 1716, and it’s one of the many amazing things you can see at the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area . The lighthouse sits on Brewster Island, and can cast a light beam 27 miles. It has withstood major storms and blows during the American Revolutionary War, and is considered to be the first lighthouse in the United States. 

Take a 2-hour Boston Harbor Lighthouse cruise, to not only get magnificent views of the lighthouse, but also Boston’s Harbor. The tour is narrated by the National Park Service and U.S. Coast Guard, and it gives you a detailed history of its use and occupation.

FANEUIL HALL MARKETPLACE AND QUINCY MARKET

While in Boston, make sure to visit the Faneuil Hall Marketplace , located on Boston’s historic Freedom Trail.

At the marketplace, you’ll find shops, dining, entertainment, and live music. It is the place to be!

Quincy Market is the largest and oldest food hall in the country! You’ll find all types of delicious eats here — from seafood to hot dogs to international cuisine and plenty of yummy desserts.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market is a one-stop-shopping experience you can’t miss.

STEP BACK IN TIME AT BOSTON COMMON

Make way for the ducks! The Boston Common is a beautiful green space that sits right in the middle of downtown Boston, and it’s a place where swans, ducks, visitors, and locals walk, relax, and grab a meal.

Well known for its fun swan boat rides, Boston Common is a historic part of the city. You can take in beautiful views of the skyscrapers, as well as the Massachusetts State House.

The common is also part of the Freedom Trail (more below) and is surrounded by activities and amazing sights, that are worth checking out.

FREEDOM TRAIL

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile trail that 16 historic sites, including churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, and more. The historic buildings not only tell America’s freedom story, but give insight into the rich history of Boston. 

There are several group tours that you can enjoy, including North End Tours and A Walk Into History. If a self-guided tour is more your style, there are a number of apps that offer amazing walking tours.

NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM

One of my personal favorite things to do in Massachusetts is exploring the New England Aquarium , because who doesn’t love watching sea otters play? It’s not too far from downtown Boston, and it can serve as the connector between The Commons and Seaport. It also is uniquely positioned right on the Boston Harbor. 

As I mentioned, the New England Aquarium is home to some pretty adorable sea otters, but what really draws the crowd is the giant ocean tank, which features some scary sharks. You’ll also find other exhibits, like the Indo-Pacific Coral Reef, Penguin Colony, the Olympic Coast, and more.

BOSTON TEA PARTY SHIPS AND MUSEUM

Boston Harbor is home to some incredible ships. These sailboats were an incredible part of historical events, like the famous Boston Tea Party.

The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum is actually a lot of fun, because they have a multi-sensory experience, including live actors reenacting the series of events. The full scale replica of the 18th century ship is truly a marvel to take in. 

BEACON HILL

Boston is known for its picturesque cobblestone streets and little alleyways, and Beacon Hill is the heart and center of this. You can weave in and around the Massachusetts State House, as Beacon Hill sits just above the Boston Commons. It’s also home to some of the best coffee shops and breakfast spots in all of the city. 

For instance, Tatte Bakery (now numerous throughout the city) is one of these go-to spots. They have a massive selection of coffee and teas, as well as a killer pastry menu. Don’t forget about their incredible breakfast or lunch menu, as this is the place to be. Highly recommend! 

BOSTON PUBLIC GARDEN

The Boston Public Garden was established in 1837, and is the first botanical garden that opened to the public in the United States. It’s often confused for The Commons, because it actually sits right inside the park. Here, you’ll notice the swan boats in the summer and beautiful flower displays that reflect Victorian times. 

Tip: The best place to take pictures is over the foot bridge that overlooks the pond and park. Beware if it’s spring time, you will get a lot of graduates looking to do the same thing. You can also likely find someone to do a caricature, if this is more your speed. 

HAMMOND CASTLE MUSEUM

Hammond Castle Museum in Gloucester, MA, was the home and laboratory of John Hays Hammond Jr. Now, this beautiful estate is a museum, cultural arts center and venue welcoming guests daily throughout the season.

Hammond is known as “The Father of Radio Control,” and was one of America’s most prolific inventors of his time. The castle’s architectural style is a mix of a medieval castle, medieval French village, and a Gothic cathedral.

Visitors can explore the castle and grounds, learning more about Hammond along the way.

ADAMS NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK

Adams National Historic Park in Quincy, MA, is a 13-acre park that honors members of the Adams Family. The park is comprised of the Birthplaces of John Adams and John Quincy Adams; the  Old House at Peace field,  home to four generations of the Adams family; and the Stone Library.

You may register take a guided tour of the historic homes, and learn more about the family and the contributions they made to the United States.

MINUTE MAN NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK

Minute Man National Historic Park sits in Lincoln, Massachusetts, and brings visitors right back to the American Revolution. Here, you can take part in both history and spending time outdoors. Walking these grounds are like walking the actual battlefields, with many places to stop and read information about the park. 

It’s also home to some incredible literature, as the Alcott family lived here at Wayside. But this is not the only reason why you will see hundreds of visitors here. It’s also a very popular park to go birdwatching and observe other animals, from bunnies to deer. The wooded area makes it the ultimate place to spend time with nature. 

Explore the hiking trails at Minute Man National Historic Park, including the Battle Road Trail, a 5-mile trail connecting historic sites from Meriam’s Corner in Concord to the eastern boundary of the park in Lexington.

SOAK UP THE SUN AT CAPE COD NATIONAL SEASHORE

For those who just love a beautiful shoreline, there is none quite like the Cape Cod National Seashore . There are six major beaches here that are all worth a visit. Definitely make time to visit Race Point Beach and Nauset Light Beach, as these are two of the most popular beaches for good reason. You are guaranteed to have a good time here.

In addition to the beaches, there are also a number of great walking, hiking, and biking trails to explore, and some of them offer amazing views.

While you’re in Cape Cod, make sure to take part in a whale watching tour! Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises allows you to see these stunning creatures up close and personal and I couldn’t recommend it more. See the whales at the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, where is noted as the premier whale watching destination in New England and the East Coast. 

Read More: 28 THINGS TO DO IN CAPE COD YOU JUST CAN’T MISS

CAST A SPELL AT SALEM WITCH MUSEUM

Halloween in Salem, Massachusetts , is certainly a bucket list item. However, if you can’t make it out for the spooky holiday, it is still worth a visit, any time of year.

In Salem, you’ll find many different museums dedicated to the history of The Salem Witch Trials. You’ll also find haunting graveyards to explore, and amazing tours offered here.

In addition to the historical significance in the area, you can also find great eateries, boutique shopping, and more.

BIKE THE ISLAND OF NANTUCKET

Nantucket is the sister island and competitor to Martha’s Vineyard. Some like to say it’s the classier version, but to be honest, you really can’t go wrong with either. Nantucket also maintains beautiful little towns with tons of places to hop off your bike for a bite to eat, or a cold one on a hot day. 

The Steamship Authority also offers daily ferries if you want to make this a day trip. It’s worth riding your bike to the Nantucket Lobster Trap for one of the world’s finest lobsta’ rolls. 

Read More: 20 FUN THINGS TO DO IN NANTUCKET YOU CAN’T MISS

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO MASSACHUSETTS

• YOUR MASSACHUSETTS VACATION
• MARTHA’S VINEYARD:  36 Phenomenal Things To Do In Martha’s Vineyard
• NANTUCKET: 20 Fun Things To Do In Nantucket You Can’t Miss
• BOSTON: 40 Awesome Things To Do In Boston For A Good Time
• AMUSEMENT PARKS: 4 Best Amusement Parks in Massachusetts