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10 Wonderful Day Trips from Plymouth

Known as ‘Britain’s Ocean City’, Plymouth is one of a kind. It’s a wonderful mix of seaside nature and urban life, and there are plenty of things to do here . However, if you’ve got an extra day in the city, there are also lots of day trips from Plymouth where you can enjoy its surrounding stunning natural beauty. 

Plymouth sits in west Devon but is very close to the Cornish border. These counties are two of the most epic places in the UK, with breathtaking beaches, striking moorland, and quaint villages. After you’ve spent a couple of days in Plymouth , it’s well worth checking out some of these attractions in Devon and Cornwall!

Table of Contents

The Best Day Trips from Plymouth

Various spots in south east cornwall.

If you have a car, you can drive from Plymouth to spots on the south Cornish coastline, which is definitely one of the best day trip ideas from Plymouth. It’s easy to drive over the Tamar from Plymouth, and then you can spend a day trip visiting the following spots: 

• Looe Island – the ferry from Looe runs to Looe Island several times a day, and you’ll have 2 hours to explore the island before the return journey. Looe Island has some beautiful wildlife and is well worth exploring. 
• Polperro – this is an epic beach town with some of the best coastline in the country. 
• Fowey – There are lots of things to do in Fowey , such as the River Fowey, more beaches, and some historical attractions, including St Catherine’s Castle. 
• The Eden Project – this is an enterprise with the intention to connect people to the outside world. In the Eden Project , there are two large biomes with tropical and Mediterranean plants and climates. It’s a unique opportunity to walk through the jungle in Cornwall! 
• Knightor Winery – located in St Austell, near to the Eden Project, Knightor Winery sells some of the best Cornish wine. You can do a guided tour around here at certain times, or do a tasting and buy a bottle direct from the winery. Click here to read more. 
• The Lost Gardens of Heligan – these are 19th century botanical gardens, with lots of beautiful and fascinating plants and flowers. Click here for more information. 

You probably won’t fit all of these attractions in a day, but you could check out the first three beachy areas, or the Eden Project, the Knightor Winery and the Lost Gardens of Heligan. To get more of an idea on how it all ties together see this road trip Cornwall itinerary . The Lost Gardens of Heligan is the furthest point on this list, and it’s about 1 hour 15 minutes from Plymouth. 

Hiking in Dartmoor National Park

The edge of Dartmoor is just 6 miles from the city, making it one of the essential Plymouth day trips. Dartmoor encompasses 954 km2 of moorland, with lots of hikes, enigmatic villages, and pleasant towns. 

Oakhampton is a great starting point for Dartmoor National Park. Here, you can go to the Museum of Dartmoor Life and learn a little more about the moorland, as well as Oakhampton Castle. 

On the moors itself, highlights include Becky Falls , Cranmere Pool, and Hound Tor. There are also some quintessential towns and villages including Chagford and Tavistock. 

How to get there:  Dartmoor is an easy drive, and it’s best to have a car to get around. If you don’t have your own car, you can get a bus from Plymouth to Oakhampton, Chagford or Tavistock. 

Exploring Historic Totnes

Just half an hour from Plymouth is Totnes, an incredibly historic town. Totnes is famous for its castle; it is an impressively well-restored Norman Keep, now ran by the English Heritage .

There are plenty of historic buildings around the city, with lots of interesting places to check out. Also in Totnes, you can check out Veer Island, tour around THe Guild Hall, or take a river cruise to Dartmouth.

Here are all the best things to do in Totnes.

How to get there: Totnes is one of the easiest places to visit near Plymouth, as it’s on the rail line. It’s a 25 minute train ride. Alternatively, it’s half an hour drive. There is parking here, near the castle, for a relatively cheap price. 

The Beautiful Town of Dartmouth

Just down the river from inland Totnes (you can do both in a day trip) is the town of Dartmouth . There has been a castle in Dartmouth the 12th century, and it has always protected the area just south of the river. It is also administered by the English Heritage – click here to read more about Dartmouth Castle. 

There are plenty of other things to do in Dartmouth too. The beaches are lovely, and there are watersports opportunities aplenty! You can also enjoy lots of shops, cafes, and bars, and a generally pleasant small town feel. 

How to get there:  Dartmouth is one of the easiest day trips from Plymouth – you can take a bus there, and onwards to Totnes if you want to combine the two as a day trip. Dartmouth is about a 45 minute drive from Plymouth. 

The Beaches of The English Riviera

The region of Torbay sits in between Exeter and Plymouth. It composes four towns – Torquay, Brixham, Babbacombe and Paignton, an area affectionately known as ‘The English RIviera’. This region is lined with palm trees and beautiful beaches – it wouldn’t feel out of place in the Mediterranean!

There are tons of things to do in Torbay. It’s Agatha Christie ’s stomping ground, so it’s a must-visit for fans of her literature (her old house,  Greenway , is near Brixham). Aside from the beaches, there are caves, the 800 year old Torre Abbey, Kents Cavern, and Paignton Pier. 

How to get there:  although Torbay isn’t far from Plymouth, the trains are a bit of a pain. It takes an hour and a half to get from the city to Torquay or Paignton, with a necessary change at Teignmouth . Driving takes 45 minutes – 1 hour, depending on which part of Torbay you are going to.

The Enigmatic Bodmin Moor

Been to Dartmoor, but want moor? You can head the other way, into Cornwall, to Bodmin. This is one of the more unusual Plymouth day trips, but it’s well worth considering. Bodmin equally has some rugged moorland and some great hikes, but there are also some other interesting attractions in the area too. 

Bodmin Jail has just been revamped and reopened, and is now a fantastic attraction. You can explore alone, or you can do a guided tour of the jail. I would really recommend a guided tour if you can do it; you’ll experience all the immersive parts of the main jail but also learn a ton more about the workings of the jail, why it is so important to the British penal system, and some of the individual stories of the prisoners. You can book tours here – I did the heritage guided tour which was awesome.

Another spot that’s worth visiting is Jamaica Inn. This is a hotel, but also has a restaurant, farm shop, and two museums. The inn was where Cornish smugglers stayed when they travelled from the coastline inland. It’s got a colossal amount of history, and you can learn about this in the smuggling museum.

There’s also the Daphne Du Maurier museum. She is to Cornwall what Agatha Christie is to Devon; and she actually wrote a book called Jamaica Inn all about smuggling culture in Cornwall! 

How to get there:  You can take a train from Plymouth to Bodmin Parkway, which takes about half an hour. You will then need to transfer to a bus to get to the town. It is about an hour drive. 

Road Tripping the North Cornish Coast

Dramatic and wild, the North Cornish coast has epic secluded beaches and plenty of history. It’s relatively easy to reach most spots in a day trip from Plymouth if you have a car. You probably won’t want to drive all the way to St Ives , which is nearly 2 hours, but could certainly do the trip to Newquay or other towns further east. 

Some of the best spots to visit on the north Cornish coast (east of Newquay!) include:

• Newquay for its surf atmosphere and the famous beaches, including Fistral Beach and Towan Beach. You can also walk an epic part of the South West Coast Path here, across Newquay’s beaches and to the nearby Bedruthan Steps. See all things to do in Newquay here .
• Trevibban Mill Vineyard for Cornish wine – book ahead for tours. 
• Port Isaac is a delightful fishing village with some of the most quintessential scenes imaginable – and it’s where Doc Martin was filmed! There are plenty of other things to do in Port Isaac though – including boat trips, the South West Coast Path, and plenty of cosy pubs and restaurants.
• Tintagel Castle is an English heritage property – the remains of a castle where, legend has it, King Arthur was born. 
• Boscastle , a scenic National Trust owned village and natural harbour.
• Bude , a laid back town with epic beaches and great surfing. See all things to do in Bude here.

How to get there:  there are some trains from Plymouth to Newquay with a change in Par, but these generally all take around 2 hours and only leave at very limited times of day. The most efficient way (by far) is to drive – it’s about 1 hour 20 minutes to both Newquay and Bude. 

The City of Exeter

Exeter is the second-largest city in Devon and is well worth visiting along with Plymouth. You could spend all weekend here , but you can see the highlights in a day trip.

The city has an incredibly rich history, spanning back from Roman times, to Medieval times when the city prospered with the woollen cloth industry, to Georgian times when it became a cultured and prosperous place to live. I definitely recommend doing a Red Coat Tour to learn all about this complex history. 

Exeter’s showpiece is its dramatic cathedral – one of the most spectacular in the country. There’s also its historic and beautiful quayside, plenty of beautiful buildings in the centre, and the chance to go underground in Exeter’s tunnels – which used to carry water under the city. 

Check out this post for the best things to do in Exeter , and if you want to stay overnight, here’s where to stay in Exeter.

How to get there:  It’s easy to get to Exeter by train, and takes around an hour. Driving is also about an hour’s trip – this makes visiting Exeter one of the easiest things to do near Plymouth!

The South Devon Beaches of Salcombe

Salcombe is another picturesque Devon village, located very close to Plymouth. It sits within the South Devon AONB, and has a stunning seaside. Like Exmouth in East Devon, it sits on an estuary, which means that some of the best things to do here involve watersports! You could also get involved in part of the South West Coastal Path which goes through the town – Start Point Lighthouse is a famous landmark in the area. 

Salcombe boasts a range of small businesses, including Salcombe’s own gin and ice cream. There are also plenty of local art galleries where you can get a feel of Salcombe’s special culture. 

How to get there:  It’s just under an hour’s drive from Plymouth to Salcombe. Alternatively, you could take a bus to Kingsbridge (the number 3) and change to the 606 to Salcombe. The bus takes around an hour and a half. 

The World-Class Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast is a bit of a drive from Plymouth, but if you’re not in this neck of the woods often, it is well worth the trip. Starting in the town of Devon and continuing for 96 miles to Studland, which is near Bournemouth in Dorset, the Jurassic Coast has some of the most epic scenery in the country. 

Some of the best bits of the Jurassic Coast Road trip include: 

• Exmouth , the start of the Jurassic Coast and the place with some of the oldest rocks on the coastline
• The small East Devon villages of Beer and Seaton
• Lyme Regis, a popular resort town
• The Isle of Portland, the Jurassic Coast’s most Southerly point
• The busy resort of Weymouth 
• Lulworth Cove and the famous Durdle Door
• The geological features of Kimmeridge Bay
• Old Harry’s Rocks, the end of the Jurassic Coast

As you can see, there’s a lot to experience here – so much that you might need more than a day trip from Plymouth! You might just want to see the westernmost parts, or set off early if you’ve got your heart on seeing Old Harry’s Rocks or Durdle Door (both are beautiful). 

If you want to focus just on Exmouth, you could do a hike which takes you to Budleigh Salterton, and then into the moorland and to the villages of Otterton and East Budleigh before returning to Exeter – click here to read instructions.

How to get there:  The only really feasible way to see the Jurassic Coast with public transport is to take a train to Exeter and then one to Exmouth (the journey will take about 1 and a half hours, provided you don’t have to wait in between the trains!). From Exmouth Station you can walk to some of the best of the Jurassic Coast, so it definitely is worth it. 

It’s more feasible as a Plymouth day trip if you’re driving. It’s just over an hour to Exmouth and 2 hours 45 minutes to Old Harry Rocks. The eastern part of the Jurassic Coast is epic, but you might want to save it for another trip due to the long drive time. Or, of course, if you’re driving from the east you could visit it on the way!

The Best Places to Visit Near Plymouth

This is by no means a definitive list, but I hope its provided you with some inspiration of the best things to do around Plymouth! After you’ve spent some time in the city, be sure to check out these day trips from Plymouth to see another side of Devon and Cornish culture.

Pssst… are you still planning your Plymouth trip? Check out this post for the best places to stay in Plymouth!

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Ten Favourite Places to Visit Near Plymouth

by Lynne Mashhadi | Around Plymouth

Plymouth is the perfect tourist destination in Britain. As a base for days out it is unbeatable. If you visit Plymouth and have a free day when it’s lovely and sunny, here are some suggestions for beautiful places to go in and around Plymouth. As those of us who are lucky enough to live here know, Plymouth is gorgeously situated between the sea and Dartmoor, on the border between Devon and Cornwall, so residents and visitors alike are spoilt for choice for places to visit. Here are my ten favourite places to visit in Plymouth or nearby.

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1. Plymouth Hoe

I know, all residents of Plymouth been there many times before, but you should go again. It’s easy to forget how amazing this place is so you need to be reminded of it. A warm sunny day is the best time to visit the Hoe; when the grass looks particularly green and has Plymothians and tourists draped all over it sunbathing or picnicking, when the sea is blue and sparkling and Smeatons Tower looks like a colourful stick of seaside rock, when the ice cream vans and cafes are doing a roaring trade selling ice creams, and Tinside Pool is heaving with swimmers. However it’s easy to forget that Plymouth Hoe can be impressive at any time of year; when winter storms are whipping up the waves dramatically, when the sea looks grey and forbidding, and the cafes are selling hot chocolate and coffee instead of ice creams.

Plymouth Hoe is one of Plymouth’s favourite places for visitors

2. Plymouth Barbican

Like Plymouth Hoe, it’s easy to take the Barbican for granted. Plymothians forget how great it is and need to be reminded to take a fresh look at it. Visitors certainly love the Barbican and it’s easy to see why. You can visit the Mayflower Steps from where the Pilgrim Fathers sailed to America in 1620, boats galore from fishing boats to yachts, seagulls, historic cobbled streets (did you know that Plymouth has the highest concentration of cobbled streets in England?), cafes with outdoor seating, gift shops, art galleries, British pubs full of character (and characters!), and I haven’t even mentioned that Plymouth Barbican is home to the National Marine Aquarium yet. Phew! What’s not to like? Although Plymouth Barbican is at it’s most glorious in the summer, it’s well worth a visit at any time of year to appreciate the changing moods of the sea and the sky, and to enjoy freshly caught fish and chips or a to sample food from the world-famous Cap’n Jaspers.

Plymouth Barbican is the Jewel in Plymouth’s crown

3. Royal William Yard, Plymouth

Royal William Yard with it’s amazing waterfront location is always worth a visit because it’s constantly changing. The Yard is one of the most important groups of historic military building in Britain and also the largest collection of Grade 1 listed military buildings in Europe. Formerly a Royal Naval victualling yard, it was built between 1825 and 1831 and is now being renovated to a very high standard by Urban Splash. Known for it’s restaurants, bars, shops, museums and art galleries, along with a mix of residential and office space, the Yard is truly unique. It has a vibrant buzz about it that reminds me of Covent Garden, or the waterfront in Bristol. There is now also a daily water taxi service operating from Royal William Yard to Plymouth Barbican which makes a great experience all on it’s own.

Historic Royal William Yard with it’s amazing waterfront location is always worth a visit

4. Saltram House and Country Park, Plymouth

On the outskirts of Plymouth this National Trust property is a convenient place for a day out for Plymothians. The house is a George II era mansion and the original Tudor house was altered and improved by the famous Robert Adams. The garden is mostly nineteenth century with an orangery, follies, shrubbery and specimen trees, whilst the park (which is free for visitors to roam) is extensive and involves woodland as well as riverside walks. Saltram has good visitor facilities (which you would expect from the National Trust) with a good cafe, toilets, gifts shops and a lovely duck pond in a cobbled yard. Saltram is a great place to visit at any time of the year; in the autumn the woodlands have stunning foliage to enjoy when taking a brisk walk, whilst in the summer the riverside walk is beautiful. Popular with dog owners, walkers and picnickers, as well as history lovers, we Plymothians are lucky to have Saltram right on our doorstep.

Popular with dog owners and walkers, as well as history lovers, Plymothians are lucky to have Saltram right on their doorstep

5. Mount Edgcumbe, Cornwall

Mount Edgcumbe House was built in the 1500s, but restored after the Second World War. It is jointly owned by Plymouth City Council and Cornwall Council. Mount Edgcumbe Park is a beautiful destination for a day out and includes the earliest landscaped park in Cornwall. The quickest way to get there from Pymouth is via the Cremyll Ferry, a small passenger ferry which has been a major crossing between Devon and Cornwall since medieval times. After leaving the ferry you will see the entrance to Mount Edgcumbe and will soon find the Orangery; situated in the Italian Garden and dating from 1760, it is now being used as a restaurant. A little further on is Mount Edgcumbe House itself and it’s beautiful formal gardens. The park is extensive and has some lovely walks with sea views, where you will come across as many as 55 Grade II and Grade II* listed structures, as well as a duck pond and a little beach. It’s one of my favourite places for a day out.

6. Dartmoor National Park, Devon

Dartmoor is a glorious expanse of rugged nature with granite-topped tors, running streams, historic remains, steep wooded valleys, heather-strewn moorland and hidden villages and hamlets. The famous Dartmoor ponies and many sheep roam the moors unimpeded and are part of it’s unique charm. Dartmoor encompasses 954 square kilometres and includes 450 miles of beautiful footpaths/ bridleways for people to explore and whilst many are content to picnic and enjoy the stunning views and tranquility on offer, other wish to take part in activities like walking, climbing, canoeing, cycling, horse riding, letterboxing and geocaching. Some of my favourite places on Dartmoor include Brentor Church ( set on top of a small tor, a long climb to get to church), Sheeps Tor (with it’s views over Burrator Reservoir), Wistman’s Wood (an ancient woodland of dwarf oak trees), and Widgery Cross (a granite cross to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria set on Brat Tor near Lydford, well worth the climb for the stunning views). Dartmoor is truly special and Plymouth is lucky to have this treasure on it’s doorstep.

Hay Tor, Dartmoor National Park

7. Buckland Abbey, Devon

Buckland Abbey is a 700 hundred year old former Cistercian monastery near Yelverton, famous for being the former home of Sir Richard Grenville and also of Sir Francis Drake. Owned by the National Trust it is a great place to visit with it’s lovely gardens and meadows, orchards and woodland walks, with views over the Tamar Valley. The house itself is partly a museum and contains many fascinating items including the legendary Drake’s Drum. Attractions include an enormous medieval tithe barn, craft workshops and a herb garden.

Buckland Abbey, formerly the home of Sir Francis Drake, makes a great day out from Plymouth.

8. Bellever Forest, Devon

Bellever Forest is owned by the Forestry Commission and is one of Dartmoor’s gems. The East Dart River runs through the forest and is a popular spot for families to picnic and children to play in the river. Walkers can venture through marked forest trails and can ascend Bellever Tor with it’s stunning views over Dartmoor, or walk the historic bridleway. Bellever is suitable for all ages and abilities; with it’s car parking and toilet facilities, gentle strolls by the river are available as well as longer walks for the more energetic.

Bellever Forest is a popular spot for walkers, families to picnic and children to play in the river.

9. Wembury Beach, Devon

Wembury Beach is the probably the best beach within easy access of Plymouth. A sheltered pebbly beach with a view of the distinctive Mew Stone, it’s popular with families, swimmers, surfers and kayakers. Walkers can enjoy inland and cliff side walks to Wembury Woods and the Yealm Estuary and around Wembury Point. The facilities are good too with the Old Mill Cafe for those without a picnic and and public toilets. Dogs are allowed on the beach from 1 October until 1 April. The Wembury Marine Centre organises rock pool rambles and it’s a popular place for local schools to visit and study sea life.

10. Bigbury On Sea Beach, Devon

Bigbury Beach is my personal favourite when it comes to the seaside. An enormous sandy beach with rock pools and caves to explore, it’s perfect for having picnics, beach cricket, making sandcastles and swimming or paddling. A striking feature of Bigbury Beach is Burgh Island which can be reached by foot across the sand when the tide is out. The island boast the Pilchard Inn, an ancient hostelry and the Burgh Island Hotel, where visitors are encouraged to dress in 1920’s style clothing. When the tide starts to come in, the beach shrinks until Burgh Island is cut off from the mainland and truly becomes a proper island. After an energetic day on the beach, visitors can visit the cafe and wind down with good food, ice cream and hot drinks. Dogs are allowed on the beach but are restricted to the right hand side in the summer. Lifeguards during the summer months make the beach a safer place to swim. Bigbury Beach is truly a magical seaside destination.

A striking feature of Bigbury Beach is Burgh Island

Over to You

Well now you know my ten favourite places for a day out in and around Plymouth. Would you add any to this list? What should number 11 be? It’s time for you to try them all out for yourself. Collect all ten and let me know how you get on in the comments section below. If you are considering an English holiday this year with the convenience of a city and easy access to history, heritage and nature, I can’t think of a better destination than Plymouth.

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Plymouth, England

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Plymouth, in the beautiful English county of Devon, is one of Britain's largest seaports and naval bases. As such, it ranks as the country's most historically significant ports. It was here, just off the coast of Plymouth, that the English navy defeated the Spanish Armada, marking the beginning of the country's rise as a world power.

Situated at the mouth of the River Tamar, the boundary between Devon and Cornwall, Plymouth is now a sizeable city that includes Stonehouse and Devonport. For visitors, this means there are many great attractions to visit and fun things to do nearby.

Bordered by a rocky and sometimes steep shoreline interspersed with sheltered beach areas suitable for swimming, this attractive coastal city is nestled between hills that reach down to the adjoining bays. Surrounding woodlands and meadows combine with extensive parks and gardens to give the city an open, attractive look.

Famous names connected with British maritime history, such as Sir Francis Drake and the Mayflower , are closely associated with this historic port. With the many cobbled streets and narrow alleyways of the Barbican waterfront area, as well as its wide seafront promenade, these and other major points of interest are easy to explore on foot.

As you put together your England travel itinerary, be sure to refer often to our list of the top attractions and things to do in Plymouth, England.

See also: Where to Stay in Plymouth

1. Take in the Views at Plymouth Hoe & Smeaton's Tower

2. visit historic saltram house, 3. have fun at the barbican waterfront, 4. explore the royal citadel, 5. take the kids to the national marine aquarium, 6. the mayflower museum and mayflower steps memorial, 7. plymouth city center, 8. tour the historic elizabethan house, 9. follow the heritage trail through historic devonport, 10. spend a night at crownhill fort, 11. take the ferry to mount edgcumbe country park in cornwall, 12. take a drive to cotehele house, 13. cotehele mill, 14. bridging the tamar visitor and learning centre, 15. visit the cornish town of saltash, where to stay in plymouth for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in plymouth, england, plymouth - climate chart.

Some of the finest views over the town and Plymouth Sound are to be had from Plymouth Hoe, often referred to as simply the Hoe. Spacious Hoe Park opened in 1817 and is traversed by the Promenade, and extends past Drake's Island as far as the lighthouse on Eddystone Rock, 14 miles away.

It's also where you'll find the Armada Monument , erected in 1888 and decorated with the coats of arms of the towns that helped in the struggle against the Spanish. The nearby massive Naval War Memorial is worth a look, as is the Sir Francis Drake Statue. Other memorials along the wide, paved Hoe Promenade include the Plymouth Naval Memorial, commemorating the lives of sailors from Britain and the Commonwealth who died in two world wars, and the Royal Air Force and Allied Air Forces monument.

Also in the Hoe, the upper part of Smeaton's Tower -parts of which were taken from the original 18th-century lighthouse once located offshore-is open as a viewing platform. Be prepared to tackle the 93 steps of the tower, including steep ladders, to the lantern room for the lovely views. If you're here in August, try to coincide a visit with the annual British Fireworks Championship , an event that draws huge crowds from across the country.

Be sure to also spend a little time wandering West Hoe Park , on the westernmost tip of the Hoe. It's popular with families for its kid-friendly rides and miniature railway.

Address: 4 Osborne Place, Plymouth, Devon, England

Saltram House, just three miles east of Plymouth, was begun by John Parker in 1750 and has seen little change since its construction. It is notable for its 14 paintings by Joshua Reynolds, who lived in nearby Plympton.

The artist liked staying at Saltram and painted portraits of the lord of the house and his family. The portrait of the artist himself dates from 1767 and hangs on the stairway, and is the work of Angelika Kaufmann. Also of interest are works by Rubens, Stubbs, American presidential painter Gilbert Stuart, and superb collections of porcelain.

After visiting the home's beautiful interior, be sure to spend time exploring its magnificent grounds, including the unspoiled woodlands and tranquil gardens. The views over Plymouth Sound are also worth checking out. Self-guided tours of the expansive grounds-crisscrossed by a network of hiking and biking trails-can be picked up when purchasing tickets.

Tours of the manor house are also available, and a café and tearoom are available for those wanting to linger longer.

Address: Saltram, Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/saltram

Known as the Barbican, Plymouth's historic harbor area is fun to explore on foot. Consisting of cobbled streets and scenic views over fishing boats and pleasure craft, it's also one of the city's most popular dining districts, with casual seafood kiosks rubbing shoulder with restaurants and eateries offering outdoor al fesco dining.

At Sutton Harbour, formerly known as Sutton Pool, pleasure ships offer fun excursions around the harbor and Plymouth Sound, and regular ferry services can whisk you away to other destinations across the city.

Of particular interest to American tourists is the Mayflower Museum covering the fascinating history of this famous vessel's voyage to the New World. You can also visit the nearby Mayflower Steps Memorial, the spot from which the Pilgrims are said to have embarked on their epic voyage.

A short distance away is a memorial commemorating the arrival of British aviators Alcock and Brown who, in 1919, became the first people to cross the Atlantic in a seaplane.

Other Barbican highlights include the National Marine Aquarium , the Barbican Theatre , the Plymouth Arts Centre , and countless shopping opportunities and restaurants. The Barbican is also the scene of numerous events, including concerts and food festivals.

Official site: www.barbicanwaterfront.com

The Royal Citadel was built on the site of an earlier fortification in the 17th century and remained the most important coastal defense in England for more than 100 years. The structure encompasses the site of an earlier fort built in the time of Sir Francis Drake.

It's still used by the military, so be sure to check tour availability for the attraction. Entry is via guided tours only, which must be booked in advance of your visit.

A highlight of a visit is the Royal Chapel of St. Katherine-upon-the-Hoe. Originally licensed for services in 1371, it was rebuilt over the centuries. A road runs around the citadel, affording excellent views, and a pleasant footpath can also be strolled.

Address: Lambhay Hill, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/royal-citadel-plymouth/

Located adjacent to the Barbican waterfront area, the National Marine Aquarium is the UK's largest aquarium and offers superb educational programs and displays. Exhibits cover the world's oceans, from the shores of England to Pacific coral reefs.

More than 70 sharks from 10 different species are housed here, along with small dogfish and large sand tiger sharks, all of them featuring in an excellent interactive dive show. An on-site restaurant offers views of exhibits or across Plymouth Sound, and there's a good-sized gift shop selling a variety of souvenirs.

Fun behind-the-scenes tours are available, as are a variety of daily talks about the facility's residents and other marine related matters. Other fun things to do include joining a "shark sleepover," including snacks and a unique chance to see these amazing creatures at night.

Also fun for the kids, the nearby Plym Valley Railway consists of preserved steam engines and rolling stock running on a 1.5-mile line.

Address: Rope Walk, Coxside, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.national-aquarium.co.uk

While a big draw for tourists from the United States, the Mayflower Museum is also well worth a visit for those with an interest in Britain's rich naval history.

Located in the Barbican area and focusing on the remarkable journey made by America's founding fathers aboard the Mayflower , this first-rate museum commemorates Plymouth's important part in the epic journey undertaken by the Pilgrims to the New World. Highlights include the chance to try out period costumes, numerous fun interactive games, along with a scale model of the famous ship.

Afterwards, be sure to snap a photo of the Mayflower Steps Memorial , a historic gateway built in memory of the Pilgrim Fathers. These, and the museum, can be included in a number of fun walking tours of the Barbican and old town area.

Address: 3-5 The Barbican, Plymouth, Devon, England

Plymouth's bustling city center occupies the area around two broad avenues, Armada Way and Royal Parade , which adjoin Hoe Park to the north. Near St. Andrew's Church are the 15th-century Prysten House, the city's oldest home; the 16th-century Merchant's House, a Tudor building housing a museum of social history; and the beautiful Guildhall with its pretty little towers.

Opposite St. Andrew's is the Civic Centre , worth visiting for the viewing platform on the 14th floor, with its breathtaking views of the city, which on a clear day enables you to see as far as distant Dartmoor . On Derry's Cross is the famous Theatre Royal, with the Athenaeum Theatre next door.

You can find many things to do at the Plymouth Pavilions , a conference and leisure center with a swimming pool, wave-machine, and ice rink.

Finally, a little northwest of the city center is the Drake Circus Centre , a pedestrian zone with passageways of shops and restaurants. In addition to its great shopping and dining experiences, it's here you'll find the stunning " The Box ." Home to the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, this architectural gem is well worth seeing if not just for its design, but its exhibits relating to local art and history.

Address: St. Andrews Street, Plymouth, Devon, England

In the narrow cobbled streets of The Barbican, Plymouth's historic quarter centered around Sutton Harbour, you can see an excellent example of 16th-century architecture in the Elizabethan House on New Street.

Fitted out exactly as it would have been in Tudor times, it's a delight to explore. Fascinating displays lead you through the building's rich history as a boarding house over the centuries, from its construction right through to the humble lodgings of its last tenants in the 1920s.

Also worth visiting are the neighboring Elizabethan Gardens and the 100-plus other listed historic attractions here. You should also visit nearby Southside Street, where you can see the remains of a 14th-century Dominican monastery.

Address: 17-19 New Street, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.theboxplymouth.com/outside-the-box/elizabethan-house/restoration

To the west of Plymouth city center, Devonport has many fine old Georgian and Regency houses. The Royal Dockyard, established in 1691 by William III, contains a memorial to polar explorer Robert Falcon Scott.

Born in Devonport in 1868, Scott died in 1912 on an expedition to the South Pole with his ship Discovery , now on display in Dundee. Gun Wharf, built in 1718, is also architecturally interesting.

The Devonport Heritage Trail is a great way to explore the area (particularly for hikers), while the more sedate Waterfront Walkway offers good sightseeing for all ages and abilities. Be sure to also visit the excellent Devonport Naval Heritage Centre, with its displays and exhibits relating to the city's historic dockyards.

Highlights include a former Royal Navy submarine, as well as the opportunity to tour the still operational naval base (tours need to be booked in advance).

Address: Vivid Approach, Off Granby Wy., Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, England

Crownhill Fort, built in the 1860s, is the largest and best preserved of Plymouth's ring of Victorian Forts. There are cannons and tunnels to explore, as well as ramparts and a massive dry moat, and you can take in numerous historic reenactments throughout the year. Guided tours are available.

For an unforgettable experience, look into booking one of the Fort's unique overnight stays. Offered in the former Officers' Quarters, these fully-furnished luxury suites contain separate bedrooms and full kitchens.

Address: Crownhill Fort Road, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.landmarktrust.org.uk/crownhill-fort

From Plymouth, there's a ferry service to Cremyll in Cornwall and the sprawling Mount Edgcumbe Country Park. Overlooking this huge parcel of land-the park in fact includes two villages, Kingsand and Cawsand-is Mount Edgcumbe House, a fine example of English 18th-century interior design.

Featured in the Oscar award-winning film, Sense and Sensibility , the house includes a large collection of period furniture and numerous fine paintings, including examples by Joshua Reynolds. Rare Chinese and English porcelain, as well as a unique collection of Bronze Age horns originating from Ireland, can also be viewed.

Be sure to spend time in the colorfully landscaped park, noted for its many European and exotic plant varieties. Other notable features include a number of follies, fortifications, and temples, most of which can be explored.

There are plenty of trails to explore, too, including a nine-mile section of the popular South West Coast Path and a long stretch of coastline. For those wanting to bed down for a night or two, a number of quaint cottages, along with a glamping site, can be booked.

Location: Cremyll, Torpoint, Cornwall, Devon, England

Official site: www.mountedgcumbe.gov.uk

Located a pleasant 30-minute drive inland from Plymouth, Cotehele House is a National Trust property that should be added to your local travel itinerary. While records indicate a manor home existed on the site in the early 1300s, much of the splendid medieval building on display today was built in the late 15th century by the Edgcumbe family, who were also responsible for the already-mentioned Mount Edgcumbe House.

Notable among its many interesting features are the well-preserved outbuildings, its three charming chapels, plus a large collection of old furniture and tapestries. The picturesque 14-acre grounds are well worth exploring and back onto the River Tamar.

Highlights include a marine exhibit at the Cotehele Quay, along with a lovely tearoom, formal gardens, a tower, and a Victorian-era summerhouse.

Address: St. Dominick, Saltash, Devon, England

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele

When visiting Cotehele House, be sure to also check out the neighboring Cotehele Mill . This remarkably well-preserved water-powered mill demonstrates traditional milling methods that were once common before the arrival of steam power and electricity.

While the exact date it was built remains a bit of a mystery, it's believed to have been here in medieval times, and the current water wheel itself is known to have been added in the 1800s.

In addition to its working blacksmith shop and fascinating displays of old tools, you can still see local grain being ground just as it would have been centuries ago. Cotehele flour is also used in the wonderful baked goods you can sample here.

This attraction can get busy, so try to allow plenty of time in your schedule to wait a short period of time before getting in, but hey, it's an idyllic stream-side setting in which to spend some time.

Address: St. Dominick, Callington, Devon, England

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele-mill/features/explore-cotehele-mill

Devon's newest tourist attraction, and one of the top free things to do in Plymouth, the informative Bridging the Tamar Visitor and Learning Centre opened in 2019 and provides a fascinating look at the two major bridges crossing the River Tamar: the Tamar Bridge and the Royal Albert Bridge.

Built in the 1960s and the 1850s respectively, these two impressive structures stand side by side over the river, connecting Devon and Cornwall. Plymouth, on the east bank, is where the informative visitor center is located, while the Cornish town of Saltash is located on the west bank. Each bridge had a huge impact on the area when it opened.

Through informative, interactive displays and exhibits, the visitor center showcases the construction of both bridges, offering a fascinating glimpse into their history, as well as their operation. Workshops and guided behind-the-scenes tours are available.

Address: Pemros Road, St. Budeaux, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: https://bridgingtamar.wpengine.com

Often referred to as the "Gateway to Cornwall," the town of Saltash sits directly across from Plymouth on the west bank of the River Tamar. It's well worth taking the time to explore and is accessible via a short train ride-worth it for the chance to cross Isambard Kingdom Brunel's magnificent Royal Albert Bridge , built in 1859-or on the pedestrian and bike path that utilizes the modern Tamar Bridge.

Popular things to do once here include exploring the Saltash Waterside, the historic part of the town once known for its boat building workshops and trades that supported local fishermen. From here, you're able to access the historic Mary Newmans Cottage , built in 1480 and furnished with period furniture.

You'll also want to visit the fascinating Elliott's Shop , a grocery store that has remained unchanged since the 1970s. Many of its displays date even further back, as the store was established in 1903.

If time allows, hop aboard a pleasure boat ride along the Tamar. These fun excursions operate off the Saltash Pier .

Looking for somewhere good to stay during your time in Plymouth? We thoroughly recommend these delightful hotels located near sightseeing locations such as Plymouth Hoe and the Barbican historic quarter:

Luxury Hotels :

• The luxurious Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa is located in a magnificent old manor house in a picturesque countryside setting, just minutes from downtown Plymouth, and features an indoor heated pool and a wellness spa.
• Located waterside, Plum Holidays - Drake's Wharf offers luxury accommodations in a heritage naval building with upgraded décor and water views.
• Another unique experience located in a historic site, Rooms by Bistrot Pierre offers elegant accommodations in the heart of the magnificently restored Royal William Yard. Beautiful gardens, fine dining, a marina, and quiet walking trails are all just a short stroll away.
• Equally sumptuous, 1 Elliot Terrace features spacious suites with great views over Plymouth Hoe.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A favorite in the mid-range price category, the Invicta Hotel is a great family-run hotel in a convenient location with extremely friendly staff.
• The Grosvenor Plymouth is another excellent option and features affordable rates, a great location just steps from Plymouth Hoe, along with modern décor and a delicious free breakfast.
• The Crowne Plaza Plymouth is also worth checking availability at, and features quality rooms with superb views, all just steps away from Plymouth Hoe.

Budget Hotels :

• For the budget conscious, the Premier Inn Plymouth City Centre (Sutton Harbour) Hotel is a good choice, located near the National Marine Aquarium, all rooms (including the larger family rooms) feature tea and coffee makers.
• While a cut above the average in this category, The Duke of Cornwall Hotel is well worth looking into for its attractive setting and affordable rates.
• Also good, Rainbow Lodge offers B&B-style rooms with a great cooked breakfast included.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

City Slickers : The UK capital of London offers no end of fun things to do, from spectacular Buckingham Palace to the wonderful Covent Garden market area. Other destinations to include on your England travel itinerary include the university towns of Cambridge , home to gorgeous medieval architecture, and Oxford , famous for its old colleges and attractive old town center.

Country Folk : England also boasts no end of quaint smaller towns and charming countryside to explore. It's also home to excellent beaches , including the coast of Brighton , as well as the spectacular scenery in Cumbria's Lake District . There's even a little of the countryside to be enjoyed in London, especially in places like Hyde Park and Kew Gardens .

England Vacation Ideas : Popular vacation destinations in England include Bath , famous for its incredibly well-preserved old Romana Baths and splendid Georgian architecture. Nearby Bristol is another great place to visit, especially around its historic harbor area. Another important port is Southampton , which, like Plymouth, boasts many sea-faring and maritime-related attractions.

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Towns and Villages Around Plymouth

Antony The boundaries of Antony, 6 miles west of Plymouth, stretch from Wilcove in the south to the stream at Sunwell valley in the north, to St John in the ... more details

Aveton Gifford Situated about 15 miles from Plymouth, Aveton Gifford, pronounced' Awton Jifford', is at the head of the estuary of the river Aune or Avon, which is t... more details

Bere Ferrers The village is designated an area of outstanding natural beauty and lies on a peninsula bordered by the rivers Tavy and Tamar, 15 miles from Plymouth.... more details

Bigbury Bigbury is a large parish, bounded by the English Channel and the Devon Avon to the south and east and by rolling farmland. It is approximately 17 mil... more details

Botus Fleming Botus Fleming, about 6 miles northwest of Plymouth, is one of the smallest parishes in Cornwall. Long and narrow, it is bounded all round by water - b... more details

Cargreen The name Cargreen is generally believed to be derived from Carrecron - Cornish for 'seal rock'. However, it must be a very long time since seals were ... more details

Churchstow Churchstow is a rural community about 19 miles from Plymouth and two miles north-west of Kingsbridge, with a population of approximately 350. ... more details

Clearbrook Clearbrook is a small hamlet situated on the edge of Dartmoor, about ten miles north of Plymouth. Its name is taken from the clear ditch runs the whol... more details

Cornwood Situated about eight miles east of Plymouth, the local community is made up of two villages, Cornwood and Lutton, each with its own identity. ... more details

Crafthole In the early 1900s Crafthole was a small village situated on a hill between the sea and a valley, about 9 miles west of Plymouth. There were about thr... more details

Diptford Situated midway between Torquay and Plymouth, the village of Diptford lies along the left bank of the river Avon, which flows from Dartmoor to Bantham... more details

Hessenford Hessenford is a pretty little cluster of late 17th-early 18th century cottages lying on the main road from Plymouth to Looe at the foot of a well wood... more details

Hope Cove Hope Cove is a coastal village, about 20 miles from Plymouth, and forms part of Bigbury Bay where ships, for centuries, have sheltered when storms las... more details

Ivybridge Nestling amid the southern foothills of Dartmoor lies Ivybridge. It has not always been a town, but the sprawling new estates which encircle old Ivybr... more details

Kingsand & Cawsand This collection of villages and hamlets was brought together by historical an accidental events to form the parish of Maker with Rame on an unspoilt p... more details

Loddiswell Loddiswell lies some three miles north of Kingsbridge and about 17 miles east of Plymouth. ... more details

Modbury Modbury is built on the slopes of a valley and consists of four main streets intersecting at right angles. It lies about 12 miles south-east of Plymou... more details

Pillaton Pillaton is an attractive village overlooking the Lynher valley on the south-east border of Cornwall, about ten miles northwest of Plymouth. Mentioned... more details

Plympton 'Plymouth was a fuzzy down when Plympton was a borough town.' This old rhyme is often quoted by the older folk who can remember how an outing to Plymo... more details

Portwrinkle Portwrinkle was once a small but flourishing village with its early 17th century pilchard cellars, situated halfway between Plymouth and Looe, but lik... more details

Ringmore Ringmore is a very attractive village situated on the south Devon coast, southeast of Plymouth. It has some interesting 16th to 18th century buildings... more details

Sheviock Sheviock is the smallest of the three villages within the parish of Sheviock, west of Plymouth, the others being Crafthole and Portwrinkle. This paris... more details

South Brent Travelling along the new A38 very few people notice the village of South Brent nestling between prominent Dartmoor hills and surrounded by green field... more details

Sparkwell Sparkwell is less than two miles from the main A38 Ivybridge to Plymouth road. Just across the main railway line - 1/42 incline, the 'longest in Engla... more details

St Germans You will find the village of St Germans in the south-east corner of Cornwall, lying ten miles west of Plymouth at the head of the tidal estuary from t... more details

St John St John is approximately six miles west of Plymouth. The village is situated at the head of the estuary called St John's Lake opposite Devonport and t... more details

St Mellion On 17th October, 1259 the church of St Mellion (or St Mellyan or St Mellanius) was dedicated by Bishop Bronscombe of Exeter. The original patron saint... more details

Thurlestone The parish is in the South Hams of Devon, to the southeast of Plymouth and about four miles from Kingsbridge, and consists of the village of Thurlesto... more details

Torpoint Situated on the Rame peninsula in the south-east corner of the county on the banks of the river Tamar, Torpoint enjoys the best of all worlds. It affo... more details

Trematon The Cornish village of Trematon, about 8 miles west of Plymouth, and its surrounding countryside is steeped in history. It is said to take its name fr... more details

Wilcove Where is Wilcove? The summer traveller into Cornwall via the Torpoint ferry, intent on his holiday destination, can be forgiven for missing the signs ... more details

Yealmpton Before the First World War Yealmpton was a real Devon village, although only seven miles east of Plymouth. The village itself, stretching along the A3... more details

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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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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 ...

Calling all bookworms! 📚 🐛 @booklove_pinehills in Plymouth has so many great events planned for April. From book signings to live music and Saturday story times, there`s something for readers of all ages and interests! 📚 Live Acoustic Music: Stevey Burke 🔹 Friday, April 5th from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM 📚 Saturday Storytime with Christine Evans 🔹 Saturday, April 6th from 10:00 AM-10:30 AM 📚 An Evening with Jeanne Marie Christie 🔹 Thursday, April 11th from 6:00 PM-7:00 PM 📚 Live Acoustic Music: Chelsea Brandwein-Fryar 🔹 Friday, April 12 from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM 📚 Saturday Storytime with Big Ryan’s Tall Tales & Kids Crochet 🔹 Saturday, April 13 from 10:00 AM-10:30 AM 📚 A Celebration of Poetry 🔹 Tuesday, April 16 from 6:00 PM-7:30 PM 📚 An Evening with Cara Bean 🔹 Thursday, April 18 from 6:00 PM-7:30 PM 📚 Live Acoustic Music: Adam Frates 🔹 Friday, April 19 from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM 📚 Saturday Storytime with Michelle Richard, Earth Day Celebration w/WDC, & Kids Crochet 🔹 Saturday, April 20 from 10:00 AM-3:00 PM 📚 Homegrown Plant Shop Pop-Up, Storytime with Margo Connolly-Masson, and Sparked Permanent Jewelry 🔹 Sunday, April 21 from 10:00 AM-3:00 PM 📚 An Evening with Hank Phillippi Ryan 🔹Tuesday, April 23 from 5:30 PM-7:30 PM 📚 An Evening with Thao Thai 🔹Thursday, April 25 from 6:00 PM -7:30 PM 📚 Live Acoustic Music: Butch McCarthy 🔹 Friday, April 26 from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM 📚 Saturday Storytime with Josh Funk 🔹 Saturday, April 27 from 10:00 AM-10:30 AM 📚 Mother’s Day Metal Embossing Workshop 🔹 Sunday, April 28 from 11:00 AM-12:30 PM 📸 @booklove_pinehills #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #BookLove #BookWorm #BookLovers #Reading ...

Don`t miss out on these Easter weekend events in Plymouth County! 🐣 🐰 View the full weekend calendar through the link in our bio. #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #VisitMA #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #Vacation #Easter ...

Start planning a summer adventure with today`s member spotlight, Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises (@whalescapecod)! 🐋 For an outstanding whale-watching trip, you need the right vessel! The Whale Watcher offers three viewing levels, over 650 feet of rail space, two sun decks and bench seating throughout, making it one of Cape Cod`s top whale-watching experiences. 📍 269 Millway, Barnstable 📸 @whalescapecod #MyMassachusetts #Plymouth #PlymouthMA #PlymouthCounty #SeePlymouth #VisitMA #Massachusetts #NewEngland #Travel #Vacation #WhaleWatching #Whales #Ocean ...

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The Top Things to Do in Plymouth, England

When the Pilgrims set off on their epic trans-Atlantic voyage 400 years ago, it was only by chance that the port of Plymouth, England, was their final point of departure from the Old World. Originally, they’d set off from Southampton with two ships, but 300 miles out to sea, the Speedwell, their second ship, began leaking so badly they were forced to turn back, hoping ship builders in Plymouth could make the vessel once again seaworthy. But when they learned the Speedwell couldn’t be saved, as many of the Pilgrims as possible crowded aboard the Mayflower and set off again. 

This year the Mayflower 400 celebration taking place in both the Old World and the New will see many visitors paying call at the various places throughout the United Kingdom associated with the Pilgrims, including the tiny villages in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire many of them came from. Plymouth, right on the border of Devon and Cornwall, two of England’s most beautiful counties, will likely be a major attraction. Here are the musts of what to see and do both in and near Plymouth.

Amble Through the Barbican

Plymouth was nearly leveled by German bombers during World War II, but by great good fortune, little damage occurred to the Barbican, the warren of ancient streets near the harbor with more cobbled streets than any other city in England. The area still contains many buildings the Pilgrims would have known. Two of them, the Island House and the Elizabethan House, are likely places where they lodged while awaiting to learn the fate of the Speedwell. A new museum offers interactive exhibits inside the Elizabethan House, and don’t miss the lovely hidden garden behind it. On the water’s edge, the monumental Mayflower Steps also have been recently restored. Since this area was out in the harbor in 1620, it’s not possible the Pilgrims would have descended these stairs to board the ship. A popular local legend maintains, however, that the actual steps they used were covered over a century and a half later by a structure now housing the Admiral MacBride, a charming English pub, with the original stairway supposedly buried underneath.

Take a Harbor Cruise

Plymouth’s harbor, which separates the English counties of Devon and Cornwall, is one of the finest in the world. It’s also the point where Sir Francis Drake, Captain Cook, and Charles Darwin all began their historic voyages and where many of the Titanic’s survivors returned. Today, hourlong cruises are available from Plymouth Boat Tours that explore the city’s highlights visible from the water, as well as passing by mighty warships and nuclear submarines moored at the Royal Navy Dockyard. Themed cruises offered by the company include Pirate Adventures, as well as jazz and sunset tours. Harbor ferries transport visitors to the Cornwall side of the harbor to Mount Edgecombe Country Park, where an elegant estate house and formal gardens can be seen, or to the twin Cornish villages of Cawsand and Kingsand, quaint towns with a history of smuggling in their past. Deep sea fishing expeditions depart from the harbor, and opportunities for paddle boarding, sailing, kayaking, and scuba diving are also available.

Sample Gin with a Mayflower Connection

The oldest working gin distillery in England, Plymouth Gin established the spirit as a nobleman’s drink and for centuries was the supplier for officers in the Royal Navy. Made with pure soft water from nearby Dartmoor National Park and with a proprietary blend of botanicals, the company’s gin products are all made in a Victorian-era still that can be viewed during the popular 40-minute tours. And Plymouth Gin has its own unique connection to the Mayflower also. Originally constructed as a monastery dating to the 1430s, the structure currently has a swanky upstairs cocktail lounge, a long room with magnificent soaring ceilings that was once the refectory where the monks took their meals. It’s also the room where it’s commonly believed the Pilgrims had their final meal before setting off to the New World the next morning—a list of all 102 Mayflower passengers is emblazoned on the wall. Don’t leave before picking up a recipe for the “Mayflower Martini” in the gift shop.

Sample Local Eats

A diversity of culinary choices makes dining in Plymouth an adventure. Seafood is of course abundant with menu choices at the many restaurants lining the harbor including local fish like whiting, sprat, and plaice. The Barbican’s historic Jacka Bakery, established in 1597, now prepares artisanal bread, pastries, and cakes, but in 1620 they supplied the Pilgrims with the hardtack carried on the Mayflower—it can still be ordered online. Be sure to sample Cornish pasties, savory pies filled with meats and vegetables shaped into a semi-circle with crimped edges. Partaking in a Devon Cream Tea, an afternoon ritual of drinking tea and munching on scones covered with clotted cream and jam, shouldn’t be missed. The folks in Devon insist the jam be placed atop the cream, while in neighboring Cornwall it’s the other way around. Try both ways at the Tudor Rose Tea Room or at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, where the elegant “Tea at the Top” also offers scenic views from the hotel’s highest floors.

Park Yourself in the Hoe

Think of the Hoe as Plymouth’s Central Park. Sitting adjacent to an imposing 17th-century fortress, the Royal Citadel, the Hoe’s wide expanses high above the harbor offer spectacular views. Legend has it that Sir Francis Drake looked out on the passing Spanish Armada from here as he enjoyed a game of lawn bowling. Even better views can be had from atop Smeaton’s Tower, a beloved red-and-white striped lighthouse. Elsewhere in the park are an impressive Naval War Memorial; the Tinside Lido, an Art Deco saltwater swimming pool; and “The Beatle Bums,” an art installation on the very spot where the Fab Four sat and had a famous photo taken of them when they visited Plymouth in 1963. For two days in August, the Hoe will host the British Fireworks Championships.

Get Close to Sharks

Just steps from the Barbican, the National Marine Aquarium offers “fin for everyone” inside the United Kingdom’s largest aquarium. With more than 4,000 aquatic animals in four separate zones, the main focus is on the waters near Plymouth Sound, the British coast, and the Atlantic Ocean, but a section called “Blue Planet” offers brightly colored fish from the Great Barrier Reef and elsewhere in the world. Only a plate of glass separates viewers from sharks, green turtles, barracudas and rays swimming in huge tanks that visitors walk both through and under. VIP Behind-the-Scenes tours are offered as well as daily talks and shows like “Meet the Sharks” and “Dive Show.”

Shop for Local Wares

Shoppers in Plymouth can choose from the Drake Circus Shopping Mall in the center city with more than 70 of the United Kingdom’s top brand names, or they can hop on a ferry from the Barbican to go to the Royal William Yard, a former naval provisions storage facility that’s been repurposed into a home for restaurants, art galleries, and shops like independent clothing boutiques. Open air events like live music are offered as well as rotating art exhibitions, and the Ocean Studios located at the Yard is a creative hub where you can be paired with local makers to fashion your own ceramics, jewelry, and mosaics. Many of the centuries-old buildings lining the streets of the Barbican now house unique shops, including The House that Jack Built, a quirky arcade with meandering passageways complete with water fountains and witches and gnomes rotating on poles. Shops range from purveyors of handmade chocolates to vintage fashions. There’s even a resident tarot card reader!

Think Inside “The Box”

A new cultural hot spot for Plymouth that opened in the spring of 2020 is called The Box, which brings together local archives, natural history exhibits (including a “Mammoth Gallery”), contemporary art, and temporary exhibits like “Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy” that has been created in cooperation with hundreds of museums, libraries, and archives in the U.S., U.K, and elsewhere, as well as the Wampanoag tribe of Native Americans in Massachusetts. Objects and images in the exhibition will take a look at early English colonization efforts in North America while at the same time detailing the lives of the Mayflower’s passengers, showing the political and religious contexts for their journey. The 18-month exhibition will extend until September of 2021. Another traveling exhibit, “Wampum: Stories from the Shells of Native America,” will be highlighted with a new wampum belt pieced together by the Wampanoags that will travel throughout England and be on display in Plymouth from September 5 to October 24.

Take a Hike

For those who enjoy long walks, the entire region of Devon and Cornwall offers a multitude of options. The 630-mile Southwest Coastal Path along the shores of both counties offers stupendous views in many places, and although the nine miles of it passing through Plymouth are largely urban, a good sampling of it can be had by taking the ferry across the harbor to Mount Edgecumbe, exploring its gardens, then setting off on the coastal path to the twin Cornish towns of Cawsand and Kingsand with their charming pubs, restaurants, and shops. Just east of Plymouth, a total of 40 walks through defined “Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty” are suggested by the organization South Devon Explorer. Spot peregrine falcons on the Plym Valley Trail, described as a green corridor connecting Plymouth to Dartmoor National Park. And organized walking tours inside Plymouth itself include one offered by Devon and Cornwall Tour Guides that gives a good overview of the Pilgrims’ story including colorful tales like the one concerning young Pilgrim John Howland, who was swept overboard but saved. In the New World, he fathered 10 children to become the ancestor of millions of Americans, including both President Bushes.

Dart Over to Dartmouth

Further east along Devon’s coast lies another enticing destination with a Pilgrim connection. The charming town of Dartmouth was actually the first town where the Pilgrims’ two ships stopped after the Speedwell started taking on water. Several days were spent there making repairs, to no avail since the Pilgrims were forced to turn back once again, this time to Plymouth, where the Speedwell was finally declared unfit for travel. Take a walk through the narrow, picturesque streets of Dartmouth with Les Ellis, the “Town Crier,” dressed in red, blue, and gold with a tunic, waistcoat, breeches, and a tricorn hat with an ostrich feather in it.

An absolute must-see in the area is Greenway, Agatha Christie’s holiday home, easily accessible by an old-time steam train from Dartmouth. Family furniture and artifacts fill the house, including the piano Agatha played (but only when no one was listening) and relics from digs found on trips to the Middle East she made with her archaeologist husband. The extensive and heavily wooded gardens outside contain 2,700 species of trees and plants, and a steep path down to the river transports visitors to the boathouse, scene of the crime in Christie’s "Dead Man’s Folly." Afterwards, take the ferry on the River Dart back to Dartmouth, passing the huge Mayflower Tree, where a local legend maintains the Pilgrims worshipped during their time in Dartmouth.

Enjoy the Wide Open Spaces at Dartmoor

Imagine an area the size of London but with more sheep than people. That describes Dartmoor National Park with its stunning vistas of hilly woodlands and heather-covered moors, punctuated by 160 rocky granite outcrops called tors that are perfect for rock climbers of all abilities. England’s highest waterfall is here, as well as the largest concentration of Bronze Age ruins in the country, including stone rows, circles, and round houses. Dartmoor is both beautiful and eerie at one and the same—it’s the place where Sherlock Holmes went in quest of the supernatural “Hound of the Baskervilles.” Recreational possibilities abound, including hiking and horseback riding where you can watch wild ponies and their foals from your own tamer steed. Tours to Dartmoor by Select Southwest Tours and Unique Devon tours are regularly scheduled or can be arranged privately, and the adventurous can rent bicycles or even get a bird’s eye view of the whole 400-square-mile park from a hot air balloon!

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17 of the Best Things to do in Plymouth, UK

• Last Updated 29 February 2024

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An in-depth guide to the best things to do in and near Plymouth in Devon, England.

Devon’s largest city, Plymouth’s rich maritime heritage has earned it the nickname of “The Ocean City”.

The moniker is well deserved, especially when you consider that some of history’s most famous voyages set sail from here. Among them were the Mayflower Pilgrims – bound for the “New World” in 1620 – Captain James Cook’s explorations in the late 1700s, and Sir Francis Drake’s famous circumnavigation of the globe in 1577-80.

Sitting on the sheltered Plymouth Sound (a deep inlet in south Devon ) between the Rivers Plym and the Cornwall-bordering Tamar, and still home to the largest Naval Base in Europe… Plymouth is well and truly a port city.

I’ve lived on the south coast of England all my life – and have visited Plymouth more times than I can count! My brother lived there for several years, so I like to think I know the city pretty well by now.

Below, you’ll find my local’s guide to all the best things to do in Plymouth and the surrounding area. Enjoy…

Shortlist: Things to do if you Only Have one Day in Plymouth

1. soak up sea views and history at plymouth hoe, 2. unpack plymouth’s history at the box, 3. sutton harbour and the barbican, 4. take a tour of plymouth gin distillery, 5. take a dip at tinside lido, 6. meet local sea life at the national marine aquarium, 7. take the ferry to mount edgcumbe, 8. eat your way around plymouth market, 9. discover naval history at the royal citadel, 10. explore royal william yard, 11. make a splash with these plymouth sound watersports, 12. step back in time at saltram house, 13. go rockpooling at wembury, 14. visit francis drake’s home at buckland abbey, 15. discover devon’s mining history at morwellham quay and tamar valley, 16. scenic train ride from plymouth to gunnislake, 17. go wild in dartmoor national park, map of things to do in plymouth, plymouth festivals and events.

If you’re short on time – here’s   a quick list of the can’t-miss attractions in Plymouth.  You’ll find more info on each one in the next section.

• Plymouth Hoe – clifftop park with brilliant sea views.
• Tinside Lido – 1930s, Art Deco outdoor swimming pool.
• Explore the historic neighbourhood of The Barbican and Sutton Harbour. Don’t miss the Mayflower Steps – a memorial to the Mayflower pilgrims.
• Visit the home of Plymouth Gin at Black Friars Distillery for a tour and tasting.
• Discover an underwater world at the National Marine Aquarium.
• Take a scenic harbour cruise (from £11 – click here to check prices )

11 Fun Things to Do in Plymouth

Plymouth Hoe – usually simply called The Hoe – is one of the top things to do in the city. It’s a clifftop park with fabulous views over the Plymouth Sound and out to the English Channel.

As well as being a lovely place for a stroll or a picnic, The Hoe is also home to several monuments and sights that attest to Plymouth’s long history as a seafaring city and vital naval base.

You can’t miss Smeaton’s Tower , an iconic red and white lighthouse which was built on Eddystone Reef in 1759 and moved to The Hoe in the 1880s. Nearby stands the towering Plymouth Naval Memorial, which commemorates the fallen sailors of WWI and WWII who have no known grave. Plymouth played a key role as an embarkation point for the WWII D-Day landings, so be sure to pay your respects at the memorial.

Don’t miss Francis Drake…

There’s also a statue of Sir Francis Drake in The Hoe – the former mayor of Plymouth and one of the city’s most famous sons. Drake is a complicated British hero, as he was both a famed explorer and a privateer (legalised pirate). He’s celebrated for being the second person (and the first Brit) to circumnavigate the globe. But as a privateer, Drake frequently raided Spanish colonies in the Americas (backed by Queen Elizabeth I).

Drake was also a hero of the Spanish Armada in 1588 – although his piracy was most likely a large contributing factor in Spain’s attack. The story goes that Drake was playing bowls in The Hoe when news of the armada’s approach was brought to him, but cooly replied there was time to “finish the game and lick the Spaniards too”.

A relatively new addition to Plymouth, The Box is a shining example of the city’s recent cultural regeneration.

The Box is a fantastic, state-of-the-art museum and art gallery that delves into the many layers of Plymouth’s past – and present-day – history.

The building itself is a stunning piece of architecture: combining the former museum, library, and St Luke’s Church buildings with brand new grey-and-glass cubic architecture to create an epic museum space at the heart of the city’s new Cultural Quarter.

Admission is free and the award-winning museum is a fascinating insight into Plymouth’s heritage and culture. The permanent exhibits highlight the story of Plymouth and its role as England’s “Ocean City”. Don’t miss the “100 Journeys” exhibit to learn more about the famous voyages that have set out from Plymouth over the centuries.

There’s also a great programme of temporary art exhibitions, workshops, and other events – so be sure to check what’s on during your visit.

Two very different sides of Plymouth’s personality can be found on either side of Sutton Harbour.

Like much of Plymouth, the harbour was heavily bombed during WWII – but mercifully, a small pocket of the most historic streets survived. Known as The Barbican, this neighbourhood is a tangle of cobbled streets lined with crooked buildings and boutique shops. Don’t miss the timber-clad Elizabethan House – dating from 1599 – on New Lane.

It’s from Sutton Harbour that the Pilgrim Fathers set sail (for the third and final time) on board the Mayflower in 1620, heading for America and the “New World”. The Mayflower Steps Memorial marks the approximate spot they sailed from, and the nearby Mayflower Museum delves into the story of the voyage (and what came next).

Just around the corner, the Barbican’s former fish quay has been redeveloped into a trendy waterfront area with luxurious flat buildings alongside lots of bars and restaurants. It’s a great spot to enjoy a meal or a few drinks with a view of the water.

If you love gin, you need to visit Black Friar’s Distillery – the home of Plymouth Gin – while you’re in town.

In fact, even if you don’t love gin, you should probably head there anyway just to see inside one of Plymouth’s oldest buildings. The upstairs Refectory Bar is set within a medieval hall with a hull-shaped timber roof built in 1431!

Originally a monastery (hence the name) Black Friar’s Distillery is the oldest working gin distillery in England . This atmospheric building has been the home of Plymouth Gin since 1793 – and once supplied the Royal Navy with a supposedly-medicinal Naval Strength gin.

You can visit for a tour and gin tasting, or simply pop into the bar for a drink. Tours start from £15pp and booking in advance is advised.

Beloved by locals and visitors alike, Tinside Lido is one of the most popular things to do in Plymouth. This is an Art Deco outdoor saltwater swimming pool and sundeck on the waterfront below Plymouth Hoe, with exceptional views of The Sound. The stunning pool was built in 1935 and is still one of the city’s most beloved summertime attractions.

Top Tip: Booking in advance is recommended as the Lido can be very popular in summer. The pool is open seasonally, usually from the end of May to the end of September.

Right beside Sutton Harbour, the National Marine Aquarium is the UK’s largest aquarium. This is one of the most popular attractions in Plymouth – especially for families with young kids.

Explore a multi-level aquarium, where huge tanks are home to marine life from England and around the globe. The highlight is the vast Atlantic Ocean exhibit – the deepest tank in the UK, holding a whopping 2.5 million litres of water, along with green turtles, rays, and several shark species. Don’t miss it.

The aquarium is run by the Ocean Conservation Trust, so ticket sales help fund conservation and research projects.

Hop aboard a Plymouth Boat Trips ferry to reach the manor house and country park at Mount Edgcumbe – just across the River Tamar in Cornwall!

This charming country park sits on the Rame Peninsula; the easternmost part of the Cornish Coast. It was first built in the 1500s, restored after WWII, and is set within Grade-1-listed gardens on a sprawling 865-acre Country Park. There are plenty of walking trails to explore the picturesque parkland.

Be sure to visit the manor house – which is filled with treasures collected by the Earls of Mount Edgcumbe over the centuries.

The ferry service runs from the Barbican to Royal William Yard (see entry number 10), then on to Cremyll Quay at Mount Edgcumbe. You can also take the direct Cremyll Ferry from Admirals Hard in the west of Plymouth.

There’s been a market in Plymouth since 1253. Today’s indoor Pannier Market was opened in 1959 in the city’s West End – and it’s currently undergoing a bit of a revival.

At its core, the traditional market remains – but with more and more food stalls popping up, there’s also a trendy food court vibe bringing in new clientele. Be sure to swing by a few of these fab food stalls…

• Maurish – home-cooked Mauritian food
• Taste of Thailand
• Soul Food – Caribbean food and rum cocktails.
• @kitchen – Plymouth’s #1 place to eat on TripAdvisor
• Everest Flavours – authentic Nepalese street food snacks
• Tara’s Persian Food
• KIKU –  authentic Japanese food, including sushi and bento

At the eastern end of The Hoe, the Royal Citadel is a sprawling 17th-century fortress. It was built during the  Dutch Wars  (1664-67) to protect Sutton Harbour from potential attack.

Unusually, the fort’s guns could also fire on the town itself. It’s thought these may have been installed due to Plymouth’s support for the Parliamentarians during the English Civil War (1642-52)

The Royal Citadel is still in use by the military today, so there are strict security requirements and you can only visit on a guided tour. Fans of military history won’t want to miss this one!

A former Victorian naval yard, Royal William Yard has undergone a huge regeneration. Today, the historic waterfront warehouses and naval buildings have been repurposed to create a vibrant new neighbourhood filled with homes, restaurants, bars, galleries, shops, and more.

It’s within easy reach of the city centre by car, but parking can be limited. Instead, you can take a bus or bike – or even hop aboard the ferry from the Barbican, operated by Plymouth Boat Trips.

Plymouth sits on the Plymouth Sound: a deep inlet on the south coast protected by two long peninsulas where the rivers Plym and Tamar meet the English Channel.

Known locally as The Sound, the sheltered waters provide ideal conditions for watersports such as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

• Plymouth Sailing School – various sailing and boating lessons
• Mount Batten Watersports – SUP and kayaking lessons.
• Southwest SUP – paddleboarding lessons, tours, and board hire in Royal William Yard.

Don’t miss a visit to Saltram House while you’re in Plymouth. Just on the edge of the city, in Plympton, this stunning, white manor house is full of history. It’s also surrounded by some of the nicest gardens in Devon and makes a lovely break from the bustle of the city centre.

Fans of Jane Austen may well recognise the property! Saltram House starred as Norland Park in the 1995 film adaptation of Sense and Sensibility.

5 Things to do NEAR Plymouth

READ MORE: 21 Best Places to Visit in Devon

Escape the city for a while and head to Wembury Beach – a small, shingle cove within easy day trip distance of Plymouth. It’s set within the South Devon AONB, so the beach and village are surrounded by picturesque countryside.

The beach is also known as one of the best rock pooling spots in Southwest England. While you’re there, be sure to have a peep into the clear waters of the rockpools in search of marine life – and don’t miss the beachside Wembury Marine Centre to learn more about the area’s marine- and beach-life.

Fancy a walk? Follow the South West Coast Path from Wembury Beach to Wembury Point on the River Yealm – enjoying some fab coastal views along the way. You can return inland through the village to create a circular hike.

About 20 minutes drive from Plymouth, Buckland Abbey is the former home of the city’s most famous son: Sir Francis Drake. As mentioned above, Drake was a British explorer and a hero of the Spanish Armada – but was also a privateer who was seen by the Spanish as a pirate.

The house is a 700-year-old Cistercian abbey with a rich history. It was built in 1278, and converted into a grand estate in the 1540s by Sir Richard Grenville – another privateer and explorer – before being sold to Drake in 1581.

Inside, you can learn more about Drake’s history – and about life in general in Elizabethan England. Be sure to take a walk through the beautiful gardens and surrounding estate as well.

Just north of Plymouth, the Tamar Valley is a rolling, tranquil landscape and another of Devons AONBs.

It’s hard to picture today, but this scenic valley was once a heavily industrial area. Over one hundred mines once littered the landscape, with the copper, tin, and other ores loaded onto boats on the River Tamar for transportation.

Head to Morwellham Quay to learn more. Once one of the busiest mining quays on the Tamar, today it’s a living museum. You can explore Victorian cottages and shops, meet local characters, and even take a ride on an underground Mine Train.

If you want to see more of the valley, head for the Tamar Trails Centre , where you’ll find numerous walking and biking trails. Many follow old mineral transport systems through the area. There’s also the Drake’s Trail , a long-distance cycle route from the stannary town of Tavistock, down through the Tamar and Plym valleys to Plymouth.

Another great way to enjoy the Tamar Valley’s rolling landscapes is to take the train from Plymouth to Gunnislake. The Tamar Valley Branch Line is known for its exceptional views and makes a lovely excursion.

It’s only a 40-minute journey, so it makes for a very easy day trip. The highlight is the crossing of the 120-foot-high Calstock Viaduct. If you have time, hop off in Calstock for a view of the viaduct itself, then board the next train to reach Gunnislake.

Plymouth is the perfect jumping-off point for the wilds of Dartmoor National Park . Often called one of the last true wildernesses of England, the dramatic – and at times bleak – landscapes of the high moors form an epic backdrop for day trips.

Abounding with hiking and biking trails – as well as bridleways – there are plenty of ways to explore Dartmoor. You can also book climbing lessons in Dartmoor’s rocky quarries and gorges, or try your hand at caving.

You can explore a lot in a day if you’re driving – but I recommend spending a night if you can. Camping (or glamping) is always a brilliant, adventurous option – but there are plenty of hotels throughout Dartmoor, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to grand country manors.

My personal favourite is Dartmoor Shepherds Huts : a little hidden gem with a simple campsite and a handful of slightly basic, but beautiful wooden huts and cabins – all set around a small stream.

Plymouth Regatta – A three-day yacht regatta with competitive races and lots of entertainment on shore. Next dates: TBC (usually June/July)

British Fireworks Championships – Six professionals compete for the title over two nights. Next dates: 14th-15th August 2024.

Plymouth Armed Forces Day – Family-friendly festival held a The Hoe to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces. Next dates: 29th June 2024.

Seafest Plymouth – Discover South Devon’s top seafood and other local produce at this popular festival on Sutton Harbour. Next dates: TBC (usually September)

Are there any more great festivals, attractions, or other things to do in Plymouth? Scroll down to leave a comment with your tips!

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Things to Do in Plymouth, Devon - Plymouth Attractions

Things to do in plymouth, explore popular experiences, tours in and around plymouth.

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• Plymouth Gin Distillery
• Saltram (National Trust)
• The Barbican
• Theatre Royal Plymouth
• Plymbridge Woods
• Plymouth Sound
• Saltram Gardens (National Trust)
• Plym Valley Cycle Trail
• Plymouth Synagogue
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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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• North Carolina
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
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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. 

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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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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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What time is the 2024 total solar eclipse on April 8 in Indiana? Search your ZIP code

Today is the day for the 2024 solar eclipse .

Several cities in Indiana will see a total solar eclipse .

Here's what you need to know about which cities, partial eclipse start times, total solar eclipse times and the duration of the total eclipse:

2024 solar eclipse live blog: The total solar eclipse is happening today. What to know about weather, traffic and more

When is 2024 solar eclipse 2024 near me today

What time will the solar eclipse be visible in indiana.

Click on your location in the map to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location
• What the maximum coverage will be
• What time maximum coverage will occur
• When the eclipse ends at your location
• Chances for clear skies based on historical averages for April 8

Roughly speaking, the peak of the eclipse will happen about 1:55 p.m. CDT in Pensacola and 3:02 p.m. EDT on Miami Beach.

2024 total solar eclipse: Eclipse time is here! When is today's 2024 total solar eclipse? What's the path of totality?

Interactive map: Enter your ZIP code to see when the total solar eclipse starts, peak coverage, when it ends April 8

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Enter your ZIP code to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location.
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• What the peak coverage will be.
• When the eclipse ends.
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The time-lapse graphic shows what the eclipse will look like from Indianapolis.

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Bloomington, Indiana, best viewing location Indiana

All times are local ET.

• Start: 1:49 p.m. ET
• Peak: 3:04 p.m.
• End: 3:08 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 100%
• Total solar eclipse time: 4 minutes, 2.5 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Indianapolis

• Start: 1:50 p.m. ET
• Peak: 3:06 p.m.
• End: 3:10 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 49.4 seconds

No solar eclipse glasses? No problem.: How to make a DIY solar viewer out of a cereal box

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Carmel, Indiana

• Start: 1:50 p.m.
• End: 3:09 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 28.9 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Evansville, Indiana

All times are local CT.

• Start: 12:45 p.m.
• Peak: 2:02 p.m.
• End: 2:05 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 1.1 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Fishers, Indiana

• Start: 1:51 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 38.5 seconds

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View of 2024 solar eclipse in Terre Haute, Indiana

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View of 2024 solar eclipse in Muncie, Indiana

• Start: 1:52 p.m.
• Peak: 3:07 p.m.
• End: 3:13 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 46.3 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Richmond, Indiana

• End: 3:11 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 76.6%
• Total time: 3 minutes, 48.7 minutes

Indiana solar eclipse 2024 traffic: Check out Indiana traffic conditions the day of the total solar eclipse

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Noblesville, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 27.4 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Fortville, Indiana

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View of 2024 solar eclipse in Anderson, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 41.9 seconds

2024 solar eclipse weather forecast: Clouds have been spotted moving toward Indy before the eclipse. Will they block the view?

View of 2024 solar eclipse in French Lick, Indiana

• End: 3:07 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 7.1 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Greenwood, Indiana

• Peak: 3:05 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 59.5 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Columbus, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 44 seconds

Chris Sims is a digital content producer for Midwest Connect Gannett. Follow him on Twitter:  @ChrisFSims .

Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

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Top Things to Do in Plymouth, MA

Places to visit in plymouth, explore popular experiences, tours in and around plymouth.

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• Plimoth Patuxet Museums
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• Plymouth Visitor Information Center
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Solar eclipse thrills crowds in California as it darkens swath of countryside

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Bhavini Lad’s three children were so fired up to experience their first solar eclipse on Monday that standing in line to pick up protective eyewear at the California Institute of Technology campus was almost too much to bear.

The 7-year-old twins and their 5-year-old brother buzzed and jumped, chatting with people in the line around them. They spoke with great enthusiasm about their space-themed bedroom that features a replica solar system hanging from the ceiling.

“They love to learn about it because they have the stuff in their room,” said Lad, an aerospace engineer, adding that they’ve talked about how to view the phenomenon without risk of eye injury.

“You don’t look without the glasses because what will happen?” Lad asked her son.

He shouted his response: “You’ll get blind!”

Photos: Solar eclipse draws crowds of viewers in L.A. area

Millions of people across the U.S., including in Southern California, looked up at the sky to witness a rare total solar eclipse Monday.

April 8, 2024

The sense of excitement was mirrored in the rest of the crowd of roughly a thousand revelers, who donned protective eyewear to witness the scientific wonder of a partial solar eclipse at the athletic field near the Cahill Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics. It was just one of numerous eclipse-watching events, formal or otherwise, held Monday morning across the Southland.

Whereas more than a dozen states were able to experience a rare total solar eclipse, in which the moon completely blocks the face of the sun, viewers in Los Angeles saw the moon take a roughly 50% bite out of the bright mass.

Unlike elsewhere in the country, where cloudy skies risked spoiling the eclipse chasers’ view, it was a sunny, clear day in Los Angeles, with temperatures in the mid-70s. And because L.A. didn’t experience totality, the sky didn’t go dark and temperatures didn’t drop by several degrees, as they did for those places in the moon’s complete shadow.

In Los Angeles, it cooled slightly at the peak of the eclipse “because we were only receiving about half the energy from the sun,” said Kenneth E. Phillips, curator for aerospace science at the California Science Center.

Monday’s eclipse began over the South Pacific Ocean and moved diagonally across Mexico, the United States and Canada. More than 30 million Americans from Texas to Maine lived in the path of totality.

Monday’s celestial event was the last total solar eclipse that will be seen from the contiguous United States until 2044. Los Angeles will experience another partial solar eclipse in 2029, according to NASA.

World & Nation

A total eclipse is more than a spectacle. So I’m on the road to see it — again

Why would someone journey across the country to watch a total eclipse? Because it’s more than just an astronomical rarity: It may be the best show in the universe.

April 6, 2024

The buzz leading up to the total eclipse was significant, for both the scientific possibilities and the rarity.

“It’s an opportunity to see firsthand our place in the universe,” said Paul Robertson, an associate professor of physics and astronomy at UC Irvine. “We’re sitting on the surface of this rock that’s careening through space at a speed of 30 kilometers per second, and we’re doing this sort of gravitational dance with these other giant bodies.”

It’s not something that people often pause to think about, Robertson said.

Nancy Castellanos and her 5-year-old daughter, Camilla, sat on a striped picnic blanket outside the California Science Center with their eyes fixed on the sky.

Camilla smiled and pointed up to the sun, prompting her mother to remind her not to look up without her protective glasses. It was Camilla’s first eclipse and she wasn’t quite sure what to expect. They waited and watched as the moon moved in and out of partial sun-blocking position.

“It’s such a memorable event, especially for the children,” Castellanos, 39, said as Camilla cuddled in her lap. “She can remember this later on and watch the next one too.”

At Caltech, some families brought chairs and laid out blankets to relax and munch on snacks while they waited for the show to begin.

Ryan Rudes, a freshman at Caltech, skipped his math class to take photos of the eclipse, using a makeshift eclipse filter for his Canon T6 camera crafted from duct tape and lenses from his orange eclipse glasses. He had hoped to view the eclipse from Niagara Falls this year, but cloudy skies in the forecast for that region dashed his plans.

The crowd erupted in cheers as the eclipse reached its peak around 11:12 a.m. Some quickly began packing up their belongings to leave while others opted to wait in line to watch the eclipse begin its reverse journey through a large telescope set up on campus.

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Across the region, people’s creativity and scientific prowess were on display.

Zak Graff, manager for Pasadena City College’s Center for the Arts, viewed the eclipse through a makeshift pinhole camera he made using a recycled Honey Nut Cheerios box and aluminum foil.

A few times kids ran up to Graff hoping to snag a bite of the cereal, but they left disappointed. The box was for science, not snacks.

Graff also brought a spaghetti strainer he used to filter sunlight. The light reflecting on people’s clothes mirrored the eclipse happening in the sky in dozens of little crescent shadows. “Super low tech but highly effective,” Graff said.

Dani Ortuño Gudiño, a photographer working on his master’s degree in media studies, lay on the ground on his back outside the California Science Center to watch the eclipse reach its peak. He held a pair of paper glasses up to the lens of his camera, a Sony Alpha 7 III. The result was a crisp, stunning photo of the moon overlapping with the sun. The visible part of the sun was in a crescent shape overhead.

Nearby, Dalton Cantor, 16, held his glasses against his face as he gazed up at the sky.

“My family and I decided to come here to experience something unique,” he said. “It’s powerful. It pauses everything you’re going through.”

Dalton lives near the Science Center and used to visit nearly every weekend when he was younger. He was excited to be there Monday with his mother and grandmother.

“It’s a rare opportunity,” said his grandmother, Ana Rodriguez. “We couldn’t miss it.”

Edwin Lopez took advantage of the moment of calm after the eclipse’s peak to meditate.

He sat cross-legged and placed his hands on his heart as he listened to an eclipse-themed guided meditation in his earbuds. Lopez traveled to Oregon for the 2017 eclipse and has been looking forward to witnessing the event again. He took slow, steady breaths with his eyes closed as the crowd around him began to thin.

“This meditation is about finding the light inside your heart and letting it radiate through you like fire,” he said. “The eclipse is a very special moment and I wanted to feel connected to it.”

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Hannah Fry covers breaking news for the Los Angeles Times. She most recently covered Orange County for The Times and has written extensively about criminal trials, housing, politics and government. In 2020, Fry was part of the team that was a Pulitzer finalist for its coverage of a boat fire that killed 34 people off the coast of Santa Barbara. Fry came to The Times from the Daily Pilot, where she covered coastal cities, education and crime. An Orange County native, Fry started her career as an intern at the Orange County Register.

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The best viewing conditions for the 2024 total solar eclipse will be in New England

Sky enthusiasts in northern vermont, new hampshire, and maine are in for a front-row seat to the total eclipse, by danielle noyes • published april 5, 2024 • updated on april 6, 2024 at 11:44 pm.

The buzz is deafening: a total solar eclipse will grace the continental US for the first time since 2017; this is a rare chance to witness a celestial marvel. Your plans are likely set, but fingers are crossed for great viewing conditions. And the fantastic news is that the forecast for New England’s clear skies is unchanged, putting us literally in the best spot for viewing across the country.

Sky enthusiasts in northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine are in for a front-row seat to the total eclipse. For a stunning two to three minutes, the moon will devour the sun, plunging the day into an eerie twilight. This brief moment of totality will reveal the sun's corona, its wispy outer layer, in all its glory.

In the path of totality:

• How dark is it going to be?  The sky will darken dramatically, similar to twilight. This can last several minutes, so get ready for an otherworldly experience!
• Will it get colder?  As the moon hides the sun, there might be a slight dip in temperature, by a few degrees. Pack a light jacket in case!
• Will I see stars?  For a brief moment, you might be able to! The darkness will be similar to dusk, allowing a peek at some brighter stars.
• What's up with my dog?  Animals may become confused by the sudden darkness and act strangely for a short time. Don't worry, it's usually temporary.

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Safety first!

Never attempt to look directly at the sun. The sun's intense rays can permanently damage your eyesight. To safely observe the eclipse, use certified eclipse glasses specifically designed for this purpose. These glasses filter out harmful solar radiation.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience under the eclipsed sun & don’t forget to share your pictures & experiences with us here.

More on the total solar eclipse

NH officials urge patience, tell visitors to arrive early and stay late for Monday's eclipse

New England prepares for Monday's solar eclipse

Solar eclipse in New England: Traffic, lodging, events and what else to know

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What time does the solar eclipse happen in Michigan? Search your ZIP code here.

Today ― April 8, 2024 ― is the day of the Great American Eclipse that's expected to cross a large span of the mainland United States .

Most of Michigan  doesn't fall in the path of totality , but assuming skies are clear at any point within the 2.5-hour span or so , you can still see the moon crossing the sun with eclipse glasses or a safe eclipse viewer .

There's one small sliver of Monroe County, near Toledo, that's  expected to be in the path of totality . This means the area will likely dim and temperatures drop a few degrees as the moon's shadow covers the sun.

Here's how Michiganders can watch the eclipse.

What time is the 2024 solar eclipse near me? What time is the eclipse in Michigan?

Use our ZIP code locator below to find out when the 2024 solar eclipse is in your area, from start to finish, and what you can expect it to look like.

Can't see our graphics? Try this page.

The April 8, 2024, solar eclipse will start in northern Mexico before making its way into the United States, starting when the shadow of the moon passes into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT.

The eclipse will carve a path straight through Texas before heading northeast through the rest of the country , including Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. That also includes a small section of southeastern Monroe County in Michigan .

When is the 2024 eclipse in Michigan?

The April 8, 2024 eclipse begins at approximately 1:55 p.m. in Michigan , depending on your location. In Detroit, it begins at 1:58 p.m. Totality takes place between 3:10-3:15 p.m. The partial eclipse will end at approximately 4:24-4:27 p.m., again depending on your exact location.

Here's when you can expect to view the eclipse from your city or area. (Can't see the chart below? Tap  here .)

Here's a map view of several notable Michigan cities. Tap the city nearest you to find out when the eclipse will begin and end in your area.

What time is the 2024 eclipse in Detroit?

In Detroit, where there will be 99.4% coverage of the sun, the 2024 solar eclipse will begin at 1:58 p.m.  and reach maximum totality, or coverage, around 3:14 p.m. It will conclude with a final partial eclipse at 4:27 p.m.

What time is the 2024 eclipse in Grand Rapids?

In Grand Rapids, where there will be 94% coverage of the sun, the 2024 solar eclipse will begin at 1:55 p.m.  and reach maximum totality, or coverage, around 3:11 p.m. It will conclude with a final partial eclipse at 4:24 p.m.

What time is the 2024 eclipse in Lansing?

In Lansing, where there will be 96% coverage of the sun, the 2024 solar eclipse will begin at 1:56 p.m.  and reach maximum totality, or coverage, around 3:12 p.m. It will conclude with a final partial eclipse at 4:25 p.m.

What time is the 2024 eclipse in Marquette?

In Marquette, where there will be 79% coverage of the sun, the 2024 solar eclipse will begin at 1:58 p.m.  and reach maximum totality, or coverage, around 3:14 p.m. It will conclude with a final partial eclipse at 4:27 p.m.

Countdown to the 2024 solar eclipse

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Big music lineup to celebrate Spire Center's 10th birthday. It includes Lori McKenna

It's a busy week for music, with Lori McKenna at the Spire Center in Plymouth , The Fools invading Taunton, Barry Goudreau's Engine Room at The Fallout Shelter in Norwood, Dan + Shay at TD Garden in Boston, and "Dylan" at The Sinclair (but not THAT Dylan) ...

THURSDAY, April 11:  Spire Center in Plymouth kicks off anniversary celebration

The Spire Center 's 10th anniversary celebration week is underway, with folk singer Peter Mulvey – one of their first and most regular attractions – headlining in Plymouth. Jay Ungar and Molly Mason with acoustic traditional music – and you've heard Ungar's music throughout Ken Burns' "Civil War" series – in a rare local appearance at Milton's First Parish . Vastly underrated veteran soul man Lee Fields and his band at The Paradise Rock Club in Boston. Popsters LANY are taking over MGM Music Hall in Boston. The folk-pop trio The Staves are at The Sinclair in Cambridge. German rockers Giant Rooks invade Big Night Live in Boston. Valerie Barretto 's country rock at Tolson's Tap and Tavern in Pembroke .  Small Crush harmonizes at Cafe 939 in Boston.  Folk icon Tracy Grammer at Club Passim in Harvard Square. The Hi-Jivers roots rock at The Lizard Lounge in Cambridge. Road trip for South Shore twang-rockers: Scituate's Ward Hayden & the Outliers , plus the Swinging Steaks at Gloucester's brand-new club The Cut.

FRIDAY, April 12: Stoughton's McKenna performing at the Spire Center in Plymouth

Stoughton's Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Lori McKenna performs at the Spire Center in Plymouth . Rain – a Beatles tribute – headlines Boston's Wang Center all weekend. The Wickies rock The C Note in Hull . Running on Jackson – a Jackson Browne tribute – is at The District Center for the Arts in Taunton .  Pink Pantheress – the British rocker aka Gemma Walker – shakes up Royale in Boston. Guitarist and songsmith Keller Williams sure to heat up the Paradise Rock Club in Boston.  Los Angeles funk outfit Scary Pockets takes over Big Night Live. Benson Boone , a 21-year-old pop and social media sensation, arrives at the House of Blues in Boston. Beantown's beloved alt-rockers The Gravel Project are back at The Lizard Lounge in Cambridge. Colors Worldwide brings R&B to MGM Music Hall in Boston. The Narrows Center in Fall River stages a play, with The Vagina Monologues . Pianist Mehmet Ali Sanlikol brings his trio to The RegattaBar in Cambridge. Indie rock quintet Willis blasts off at Brighton Music Hall. Guitar ace Dwayne Haggins and his band get it on at The Fallout Shelter in Norwood . The jazz piano stylings of Emmet Cohen through Saturday at Scullers Jazz Club in Boston. 

SATURDAY, April 13:  Suzanne McNeil sings at The Red Rose in Weymouth

The Spire Center in Plymouth 's celebration offers a night of world music with three bands, topped by Kaleta & the Super Yamba Band 's Afrobeat, the Latin sounds of Sambita and the combination of pop and rhythm from guitarist Carlos Odria 's Trio. Afternoon special: Whitman rocker and studio wiz Munk Duane is at Proof 22 in Plymouth at 2 p.m. 19th Nervous Breakdown brings some Rolling Stones sounds to The Next Page Cafe in Weymouth . Legendary rock-and-humor troupe The Fools surely worth a trip to The District Center for the Arts in Taunton . Boston's own Strange Machines 's indie-rock at Brighton Music Hall. Southern California power pop with Movements at Roadrunner in Allston. Suzanne McNeil sings at The Red Rose in Weymouth . The Assisted Living the Band gets you moving at The C Note in Hull . Quincy jazz fusion guitarist Julien Kasper and his group at The Boston Harbor Distillery in Dorchester. Boston folk trio Tiny Habits harmonizes at Royale in Boston. French jazz guitarist Stephane Wrembel and his band at The RegattaBar in Cambridge. The electro-pop of Smallpools , with Grayscale , at The Paradise Rock Club in Boston. Former guitarist in the band Boston, Barry Goudreau and his Engine Room band are at The Fallout Shelter in Norwood . Brazilian singer Caetano Veloso is at Boston's Orpheum Theater. Local fans might be back on the road to Gloucester as The Cut features blues rockers GA-20 . And country music heart-throbs Dan + Shay headline TD Garden in Boston.

SUNDAY, April 14:  Queen tribute act comes to Plymouth

The Spire Center in Plymouth is open for an open house/party, with music by acoustic blues man Mark T. Small and other cool things. The weekly blues jam at Players in Rockland hosted by the Michele Rockwell Band runs from 4-8 p.m.; while at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, The C Note in Hull offers the Beyond the Sea program. Sunday night look for the first night of One Night of Queen (which returns Wednesday) at Memorial Hall in Plymouth ; while rapper Sematary hits Royale in Boston; songsmith Shayfer James plays at Brighton Music Hall; and Americana star Ruston Kelly and his band perform at The Paradise Rock Club in Boston.

Coming attractions

MONDAY: One of Americana's most prolific songwriters, Matthew Sweet – never puts out a bad album – and he's at Boston's Wilbur Theater.

TUESDAY: It was perhaps inevitable that with so many parents naming their kids after the Bard of Hibbing, Minnesota, that someday this would happen:  Don't go crazy when you see The Sinclair's listing for Dylan , it is actually the stage name of 23-year-old English songbird Natasha Woods, and the authentic Bob will likely not be in Cambridge.

WEDNESDAY: Indie rockers Real Estate are at Royale in Boston; while Bad Bunny gets Boston's TD Garden shaking; and comic Jim Gaffigan begins a skein of eight shows at The Wilbur Theater in Boston, running through April 21.

APRIL 18:   Folk-rocker Martin Sexton returns to the Narrows Center in Fall River ; while hip-hop's Cypress Hill takes over Roadrunner in Boston; country's Brothers Osborne perform at MGM Music Hall in Boston; rockers Lovelytheband shine at Brighton Music Hall; and comedian Steve Sweeney tops a benefit show at The District Center for the Arts in Taunton .

APRIL 19: Hippie Sabotage might evoke several images, but it's actually a Canadian hip hop duo, landing at Roadrunner in Boston. 

APRIL 20:   Don't forget the trip back in Beantown rock history when Robin Lane , and The Nervous Eaters get together at the Narrows Center in Fall River ; while Latin jazz titans Miguel Zenon and Luis Perdomo join forces at The RegattaBar in Cambridge.

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

Where to buy last-minute solar eclipse glasses for April 8, 2024

The 2024 solar eclipse is just days away.

Let's make sure you're up to speed on eclipse glasses . Even good sunglasses aren't adequate protection; the sun's rays are too intense for the retina to handle and even looking at a partially obscured sun can cause permanent damage to your eyesight.

So whatever you do on Monday, do not look directly into the eclipse without acquiring proper eyewear. If you need a pair of eclipse glasses, here are some last-minute spots to check out.

Michigan retail chains with eclipse glasses

Your local retail chain could carry eclipse glasses. Michigan retail chains expected to carry solar eclipse glasses:

You'll also be able to find eclipse glasses on  Amazon  in bulk; just ensure they are approved before you buy them, and ensure you order them early enough so they arrive on time.

Detroit Public Library

Detroit Public Library is hosting viewing parties at each of its open branches, supplying eclipse glasses while supplies last.

Other libraries across Michigan

You may be able to find free eclipse glasses at your local public library in Michigan, along with special eclipse programs.

With help from Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and the Space Science Institute, The STAR Library Network was able to distribute 5 million solar eclipse glasses to  10,000 public libraries  across the country with assistance from Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the Space Science Institute and STAR Net’s Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries program. 

Check this map to see which Michigan libraries received eclipse glasses through this effort. You also should check with your local library to see if they have glasses regardless.

Michigan Science Center

Special glasses specifically for viewing a solar eclipse are available at the Mi-Sci gift shop , 5020 John R. St. in Detroit's Midtown, said Mi-Sci staff astronomer Paulette Epstein.

“The Michigan Science Center currently has eclipse glasses on sale for $2 per person,” she said. “So you can come to our store, and you don’t have to pay museum admission to go into the store, and get them. And solar eclipse glasses are also available with a ticket to the Ford House event that we’re hosting, as well.”

More info on that Ford House event here.

More: What time is the solar eclipse in Michigan? Search your ZIP code for a viewing guide.

Warby Parker eclipse glasses

Eyeglass company Warby Parker will provide free eclipse glasses at each of its Michigan stores while supplies last .

The chain has six stores in Michigan: Grand Rapids, Novi, Troy, Ann Arbor, Detroit and Birmingham.

• Dates available : Monday, April 1 through Monday, April 8 
• Quantity : 2 pairs of glasses/family
• Where : Warby Parker retail locations nationwide; find one  here .

American Astronomical Society eclipse glasses

The American Astronomical Society  has a list of approved solar-eclipse glasses suppliers  here . 

Build your own eclipse viewer

Want to watch the eclipse without glasses? You don't necessarily need special glasses or filters, but it takes a little creativity and a handful to household supplies to make your own pinhole box or pinhole projector, also known as a pinhole camera.

Here's  what to know, including step-by-step instructions , about building your own eclipse viewer.

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