Family Friendly Attractions in Plymouth, Massachusetts
With Thanksgiving upon us, it seems that now is the perfect time to discuss Plymouth, Massachusetts. Plymouth is full of rich history relating to the development of the United States. It is also believed to be where the first Thanksgiving Feast was held in 1621. Plymouth has a lot to offer for the whole family, ranging from history enriched experiences to family fun and relaxation. If you are headed to Plymouth be sure to check out these great attractions:
By jjron – Own work, GFDL 1.2, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=19571461
1. Visit Plymouth Rock
Okay, I have to admit, I was a little disappointed by the size of this rock. I just always imagined it being much larger than it actually was in person. Anyways, Plymouth Rock is said to be where the site of disembarkation of the Mayflower pilgrims in December of 1620. Today you can visit the site, which is now surrounded by a monument marking the spot. It tends to get a little crowded here, so going early in the morning or later in the evening may be a good idea.
Address: 79 Water St, Plymouth, MA 02360
https://www.mass.gov/locations/pilgrim-memorial-state-park
2. Visit the Plimoth Plantation. The plantation is a living history museum. It is a replica of what the original colony may have looked like when the Pilgrims settled. The plantation is complete with a village, mill, animals, and reproduction of the Mayflower. The Pilmoth Plantation is also believed to be where one of the first Thanksgiving feasts was held in 1621. The Plantation is open from June to December. There are different ticket options, but basic tickets start at $30 for adults, $28 for seniors, and $18 for children 5-12 years.
Address: 137 Warren Ave, Plymouth, MA 02360
3-If you are a history person, stop in to the Pilgrim Hall Museum. The museum tells the story of the pilgrims voyage to America and is home to many pilgrim possessions. The museum also highlights the history of the Wampanoag People, the natives that inhabited the area prior to the arrival of the pilgrims. The museum is open year round with the exception of January and some holidays. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, and $8 for children.
Address: 75 Court St, Plymouth, MA 02360
4-Visit the Richard Sparrow House. The home is the oldest surviving home in Plymouth, MA. It was built in 1640 by Richard Sparrow, a pilgrim who arrived in Plymouth four years before. The home is now a museum that you can visit. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children.
Address: 42 Summer St, Plymouth, MA 02360
5-Visit the National Monument to the Forefathers. The 81-foot-tall monument sits on Allerton St. in Plymouth. It was dedicated in 1889 in honor of the pilgrims who were responsible for the settling of Plymouth.
Address: Allerton St, Plymouth, MA 02360
By T.S. Custadio aka ToddC4176 at en.wikipedia – Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons by User:Kelly using CommonsHelper., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=16091399
6-Escape from the history part of the destination and enjoy an afternoon wine/beer tasting. Visit the Plymouth Bay Winery and taste a variety of locally produced wines or visit the Mayflower Brewing Company for a variety of seasonal craft beers and tastings, and if you desire a tour of the brewery.
Plymouth Bay Winery: Rear Building, 114 Water St, Plymouth, MA 02360
https://www.plymouthbaywinery.com/
Mayflower Brewing Company: 12 Resnik Rd # 3, Plymouth, MA 02360
7. Enjoy some time relaxing at a park. Plymouth is home to several parks. The Brewster Gardens are located in the center of Plymouth and provide a relaxing atmosphere to get away from the crowds. The Nelson Memorial park is another great option, with a splash pad and playground for the little ones to stretch their legs. Nelson Memorial Park is located along the sea front.
Addresses:
Brewster Gardens: 30 Water St, Plymouth, MA 02360
Nelson Memorial Park: 235 Water St, Plymouth, MA 02360
8-Take a trip with Captain John Whale Watching and Fishing Tours. Captain John offers deep sea fishing tours in the Cape Cod bay or Stellwagen Bank. The crew is very knowledgeable about the fish in the area as well as best techniques for capturing them. Go on a tour with them and you will be sure to be successful! Captain John also offers four-hour long whale watching excursions. Whale watch cruises are $55 for adults, $32 for children, and $45 for seniors. The Deep-Sea Fishing Tours vary in price depending on the length of the tour. Captain John also offers harbor cruises, sunset cruises, and private charters. Find more information at https://www.captjohn.com/.
Address: 10 Town Wharf Plymouth, MA 02360
9-Spend the day at the beach. Plymouth, MA is home to many beaches. Hit the sand and soak up the sun at Plymouth Beach, Ellisville Harbor State Park, or take the short trip to nearby Cape Cod and enjoy one of their many beaches.
10-Visit the A.D. Makepeace Company. Take the short drive from Plymouth and tour a cranberry bog, tour the facility, and learn how it is done. Stop by the Makepeace Farms for cranberry themed gifts food, snacks, and cookbooks. During harvest season you can harvest your own cranberries.
Address: 158 Tihonet Road, Wareham, MA 02571
Side note: Plymouth, MA is a rather small destination. I would recommend pairing it up with a trip to nearby Cape Cod or Boston. Keep watching for travel guides on these great destinations.
About Me
I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!
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Plymouth is fun, but my favorite spot in the old graveyard and the pilgrims buried there.