Situated along the picturesque coastline of Massachusetts, Plymouth County stands as a beacon of history, culture, and natural beauty, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through time. From the hallowed grounds where the Pilgrims first set foot on American soil to the vibrant local communities teeming with small-town charm, Plymouth County offers a variety of experiences that captivate the senses and ignite the spirit of exploration. With its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and an abundance of wonderful dining and lodging options, Plymouth County beckons visitors from near and far to discover the allure of this captivating destination.
Any trip to Plymouth must include a stop at Ship Mayflower. Located at State Pier on the waterfront, this is a full-scale reproduction of the original Mayflower, and it is right by Plymouth Rock, the steppingstone of the Pilgrims! There are also numerous historical sites in town – take the opportunity to stroll or cruise past iconic landmarks in Plymouth, such as the National Monument to the Forefathers, honoring figures like the Wampanoag Sachem Massasoit, Pilgrim William Bradford, and the Pilgrim Mothers & Maidens. Delve into the rich tapestry of the past with sites like the Plymouth Immigrant Memorial and many others that are awaiting your discovery.
History buffs will also relish the numerous historic lanes and byways created by Native peoples and the Pilgrims. You can hike through ancient graveyards and climb to the peak of Burial Hill to read fascinating gravestone inscriptions that date back to the 1700s! If you’re not up for exploring on your own, consider taking a guided walking tour, visiting a corn grist mill, or learning about Pilgrim history on a faith-based tour.
And don’t forget the museums, like the Plimoth Patuxet Museums which offer an immersive journey into the early colonial history of America, providing visitors with an authentic experience of the Pilgrim settlement and Wampanoag culture through engaging exhibits, hands-on activities, and living history demonstrations.
All that exploring and learning will surely work up quite an appetite, so it’s a good thing that Plymouth County offers a variety of dining options, from upscale fine dining to casual New England seafood and everything in between. Some highlights include Bramhall’s Country Store, located in historic Chiltonville, which serves delicious lobster rolls and ice cream in a peaceful setting, and The Artisan Pig, featuring handcrafted, wood-fired pizzas that the whole family will love. Beer drinkers will delight in the Second Wind Brewing Company, a craft microbrewery located right in downtown Plymouth.
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Other imbibing options include High Limb Cider and Mayflower Brewing Company, as well as Uva Wine Bar – the first and only self-serve wine bar that features interactive stations at which customers can choose from 48 different wines!
Plymouth County also features an array of inviting accommodations to choose from, which makes planning a trip here perfect for every budget. One family favorite is the Hotel 1620 Plymouth Harbor (located right across the street from the bay) which boasts its new Mayflower Landing Splash Pad with slides, fountains, & lots of water-filled fun! Regardless of where you choose to stay, there will be warm welcomes awaiting, and the diverse lodging options ensure that every traveler finds their ideal home away from home in this picturesque locale.
A trip to Plymouth County with its rich history, culture, and natural wonders is one you won’t soon forget. From tracing the footsteps of the Pilgrims at iconic sites like Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower Ship to savoring the flavors of local cuisine and exploring quaint lanes steeped in centuries-old stories, every moment in this captivating destination is a testament to its enduring allure.