What to Do in Plymouth, Massachusetts

Plymouth Massachusetts is one of the most frequently traveled vacation destinations in the country. Billed as “America’s Hometown” it is the settlement site of the separatists or “Pilgrims” from England who immigrated here in the fall of 1620. 

Normally, one of the first knee-jerk reactions people have when they think of visiting Plymouth is the “Plymouth Rock”. The rock is situated in a colonnade on Water Street, right on the waterfront. Although this is an obligatory sight that any tourist should see, it must be noted that it is not only the least interesting, but also the least “historical” relic in the area. The truth be told, the “rock” was found on Clark’s island in Plymouth harbor by a relative of one of the original Pilgrims. Only God knows if it was anywhere near where the Pilgrims landed when they reached Clarks Island. It was moved from the island to the mainland to make it more accessible to visitors. In its travels, at one point it was dropped, splitting it in two. Today, you can see the distinctive line of cement holding the two halves together. 

While you are on Water Street, directly across from the Rock is the Plymouth Wax Museum. It is worth the nominal admission to see the full-size depictions of the hardships and struggles the settlers endured in their first two years. Moving north along Water Street, within 100 yards of the Rock, is a replica of the Mayflower, the Mayflower II. Most of the year the ship is accessible for an admission fee to visitors where one can tour the entire ship and meet character actors who play the role of the original crew or passengers of the ship. When you are paying for admission, you can get a discounted rate if you also purchase admission to the Plimouth Plantation, which is perhaps is highlight of most visitor’s trip to Plymouth. 

The Plantation is located about two miles south of the Plymouth waterfront, on Rt. 3A. It is undoubtedly the most accurate and detailed representation of colonial living you will find anywhere.