Plymouth Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Plymouth, Massachusetts? This comprehensive travel guide has everything you need to know, including the best things to do, where to stay, where to eat, and more.


Introduction to Plymouth

Plymouth is a historic town located in Massachusetts, known for being the site of the first pilgrim settlement in the United States. Today, it is a charming waterfront town that attracts visitors with its rich history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Whether you are interested in learning about American history, enjoying outdoor adventures, or indulging in delicious food and drink, Plymouth has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip to Plymouth, with recommendations for the best things to do, places to stay, and where to eat.

List of Places to Visit in Plymouth

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Plymouth Rock: This iconic rock marks the spot where the Mayflower Pilgrims first stepped ashore in 1620.
  • Plimoth Plantation: Experience life in a 17th-century English village and meet costumed interpreters who bring the past to life.
  • Mayflower II: A replica of the Mayflower ship, where you can learn about the pilgrims’ journey to the New World.
  • Pilgrim Hall Museum: Located in the heart of downtown Plymouth, this museum features a collection of Pilgrim artifacts and exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Plymouth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Myles Standish State Forest: A 14,000-acre forest with over 35 miles of hiking trails, camping sites, fishing and boating opportunities, and more.
  • Plymouth Bay: Enjoy scenic boat tours, whale watching, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, or swimming in the bay.
  • The Captain John Boats: This company offers fishing trips, whale watching, and lobster tours.
  • Brewster Gardens: A lovely public park with a peaceful waterfront on Town Brook.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Plymouth

  • The Plymouth Harbor Walk: Take a 3.5-mile walk along the harbor, with views of Plymouth Bay, Plymouth Rock, and numerous landmarks.
  • The Cape Cod Canal: A 7-mile trail where you can bike or walk and enjoy the stunning views of the Canal.
  • The Bay Circuit Trail: A 200-mile long-distance trail that circles Boston, with 10 miles passing through Plymouth.
  • The Hawk Hill Loop Trail: A 2-mile trail that offers beautiful views of the Bay and passes through wooded areas.

Best Things to Do in Plymouth: Activities and Tours

  • Pilgrim Belle Harbor Cruise: A one-hour narrated boat tour that takes you around Plymouth Harbor and offers breathtaking views.
  • Plymouth Night Tour: A walking tour that takes you on a journey through time as you discover the ghostly tales and dark history of Plymouth.
  • Mayflower Trolley Tours: A 90-minute narrated tour that takes you around Plymouth and surrounding areas.
  • 1620 Winery: Sample local wines at the picturesque winery, which also offers tours and tastings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Plymouth

Day 1: Visit Plymouth Rock and explore the town center.

Day 2: Visit Plimoth Plantation and Mayflower II.

Day 3: Take a fishing trip with Captain John Boats.

Day 4: Hike in Myles Standish State Forest.

Day 5: Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Cape Cod Canal.

Day 6: Take the Pilgrim Belle Harbor Cruise and visit Brewster Gardens.

Day 7: Go wine tasting at the 1620 Winery and visit the Pilgrim Hall Museum.

Food and Drink Scene of Plymouth

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster roll: A classic New England dish that you can’t miss.
  • Clam chowder: Traditional creamy soup filled with fresh clams.
  • Fried clams: Delicious fried clams served with fries and tartar sauce.
  • Cranberry-themed dishes: Plymouth is known for its cranberries, so try a cranberry-topped pie or cranberry cocktail.

Local Beverages

  • Plymouth Bay Winery: Sample locally made fruit wines at this cozy storefront on the waterfront.
  • Mayflower Brewing Company: A popular brewery that offers beer tastings and tours.
  • Dirty Water Distillery: A local distillery that serves up handcrafted spirits, including bourbon, vodka, and rum.

Where to Stay in Plymouth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The John Carver Inn & Spa: A luxurious hotel offering spa services, dining options, and a heated indoor pool.
  • Above the Bay at Thornton Adam’s House: A cozy bed and breakfast with beautiful harbor views.
  • Blue Anchor Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse with a perfect location in the town center.
  • Pilgrim Sands on Long Beach: Stay at a stunning beachfront hotel with direct access to Long Beach.

What to Buy in Plymouth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Plymouth Rock memorabilia: Pick up a memento of your visit to this iconic New England landmark.
  • Plymouth Bay Winery wines: Bring home a bottle or two of locally made wine as a gift or souvenir.
  • Cranberry-flavored treats: Check out the local general stores for cranberry-themed treats like jam, candy, and tea.
  • Mayflower-themed gifts: From keychains and fridge magnets to T-shirts and hats, there is no shortage of Mayflower memorabilia to choose from.

Local Culture and Customs of Plymouth

Plymouth is a friendly town with a strong sense of community. The locals are proud of their town’s history and culture and are happy to share it with visitors. It is a place where you can witness living history in the form of costumed interpreters at Plimoth Plantation or see the exact spot where the pilgrims first arrived in America at Plymouth Rock. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the town’s history and customs and to embrace the local traditions, such as cranberry farming and plymouth bay oysters.

Best Time to Visit Plymouth

The best time to visit Plymouth depends on your preference. Spring and fall are great for avoiding the crowds and enjoying mildly warm weather. Summer is peak season with bustling attractions, sunny weather, and warm water, but prices are high. Winter is perfect for relaxing, enjoying special events such as the Thanksgiving parade, and taking advantage of seasonal deals on hotels and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Plymouth

Do:

  • Respect the local history and customs.
  • try the local seafood and culinary delicacies
  • Enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery and take advantage of recreational opportunities.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing in public areas.
  • Disrespect the natural environments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Plymouth

Plymouth is a relatively safe town with low crime rates. However, it is always important to keep your belongings safe and secure, especially in popular tourist areas. Stick to well-lit and open places at night, and be aware of the surroundings.

Health in Plymouth

Plymouth has several hospitals and clinics for emergency and routine medical care. Drinking tap water is generally safe, and visitors should be mindful of food safety practices when dining out.

Getting to Plymouth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Plymouth

The closest major airport to Plymouth is Boston Logan International Airport, which is located about an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near Plymouth

There are several bus options that service Plymouth, including Greyhound and Plymouth & Brockton buses.

Other Options

Car rental is a popular option for getting around Plymouth and surrounding areas since many attractions are spread throughout the town and nearby. Taxi services are also available for shorter distances, while ride-sharing and bike-sharing services, including Uber and Lyft, are gaining popularity in the area.

How to Get Around in Plymouth

The town of Plymouth is relatively small and walkable. Exploring on foot is the best way to see the town center and its historic landmarks. For traveling further away, renting a car is the most convenient and common option.

Where to Go Next from Plymouth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Boston: This bustling capital city is just an hour’s drive away and offers endless sightseeing opportunities, shopping, dining and events.
  • Cape Cod: Explore Cape Cod’s beaches, historic towns, and abundance of outdoor activities.
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Known for beautiful beaches, grand mansions, and sailing, this city is a popular destination for day trips.
  • Providence, Rhode Island: The capital of Rhode Island, Providence offers top-notch dining, shopping, art, and culture.

Conclusion

Plymouth is a perfect New England getaway, offering a mix of history, natural beauty, and modern attractions. Whether you are interested in hiking, touring historical sites, indulging in culinary delights, or simply relaxing, Plymouth has something to offer. With this comprehensive guide, you have all the information you need to make the most of your visit. Enjoy your stay in Plymouth!

The ''Mayflower II'' in Plymouth Harbor, which usually is flying the flag of Great Britian, and England. The ''Mayflower II'' in Plymouth Harbor, which usually is flying the flag of Great Britian, and England. The Pilgrim Mother The Pilgrim Mother Portico over Plymouth Rock from Cole's Hill Portico over Plymouth Rock from Cole's Hill Burial Hill Burial Hill