Plymouth is a picturesque town on Plymouth Bay with a pretty harbor, beautiful beaches, cranberry bogs, and an abundance of activities. Considered “America’s Hometown,” it offers some wonderful cultural experiences!
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The Mayflower II and Plimoth Plantation
Things to do
Visit historic Plimoth Patuxet, originally known as Plymouth Plantation, to experience the life of 17th century English colonists. The English Village is a re-creation of the settlement that existed in 1627 where you can meet role playing colonists who speak, act, and dress as the Pilgrims did then. Also onsite is the Wampanoag Homesite. There, you will meet modern day Native People in traditional dress. They will tell you about traditional Wampanoag life and culture as it existed in the 17th century during the time of the Pilgrims.
Located within a short driving distance of Plimouth Patuxet, the Mayflower II is a 64-year old reproduction of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to the shores of historic Patuxet in 1620. The ship is a full-scale reproduction of the original 17th century vessel, it is 106 feet long, 25 feet wide, and displaces 236 tons of water. On board, you will meet “Pilgrims” in period costume who will describe their difficult 66-day journey in 1620.
And you can’t miss a visit to symbolic Plymouth Rock located along the waterfront very near to where Mayflower II is anchored. This is the spot where the Mayflower Pilgrims were believed to have disembarked from the ship.
Legend claims that William Bradford, the original governor of Plymouth, marked Plymouth Rock as the first landing ground in 1620. However, it wasn’t until 100 years later that relatives of the first Pilgrims claimed this as the original landing location of their ancestors. As locals were set to rebuild over the rock in 1741, a son of one of the original Mayflower passengers expressed concern about the importance of the rock. From that moment on, Plymouth Rock was known as the original landing location of the Pilgrims, a patriotic moment in history. This iconic rock is viewed by over 1 million visitors a year.
Beaches
Located on the coast of Cape Cod Bay, the Plymouth’s beaches are very calm and family-friendly. Plymouth Long Beach is a 3-mile barrier beach perfect for beach walking and safe swimming. For the more adventurous, there is the opportunity to drive 4-wheel vehicles on the beach with special permits.
White Horse Beach, one of the town’s most well-known beaches, is a picturesque, sandy beach located just minutes from downtown Plymouth. Its pristine white sand is perfect for sandcastle building and offers calm waters for swimming.
Food
The Cabby Shack, located on Plymouth Harbor, is a very popular eatery offering gorgeous views, fresh seafood, and live music in the summer months. Don’t miss their award-winning clam chowder, served in a freshly baked bread bowl!
For more casual dining, try The New World Tavern and The Speedwell Tavern. Both boast craft beers and plenty of delicious pub fare.
And if you’re looking for a finer dining experience, try East Bay Grille which offers amazing seafood and steaks.
If you're in the area in 2020, join in the Plymouth 400 celebration. Be a part of history and take part in the many exciting events that will be taking place!