Plimoth Patuxet Museums

The Basics

The Plimoth & Patuxet Museum is spread out among three separate sites that all charge separate admission fees: Plimoth & Patuxet, the Mayflower II, and the Plimoth Grist Mill. At the main site, you’ll explore a working English village and meet with historical reenactors, following the Pilgrims’ journey from March through November 1627 and witnessing key moments in their lives during that year. You can also visit the Wampanoag Homesite, a recreation of 17th-century Wampanoag life featuring indigenous interpreters rather than role players.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Save money by purchasing your pass in advance—and save even more by bundling it with other area attractions

• There are three museum shops, as well as the on-site Patuxet Cafe.

• Plan to spend about two to three hours exploring this attraction.

• If you plan to bring a stroller, jogging strollers work best on the terrain.

How to Get There

From Boston, take Route 93 South to Route 3 South. Take exit 4 (Plimoth Plantation Highway) off Route 3. Continue on Plimoth Plantation Highway for 1 mile (1.6 kilometer) and take the exit for the museum. Free parking is available on-site. You can also take the Plymouth & Brockton Commuter Bus, which stops at exit 5 Visitor Center.

When to Get There

Plimoth & Patuxet is open from mid-March through November, and there are regular seasonal programs, such as corn planting and harvesting. The attraction tends to be more crowded in summer and fall; spring is ideal if you want to avoid the crowds. From May to June and October to November, school groups frequently visit; if you visit during these months, plan to start to later in the afternoon.

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

At the Plymouth Waterfront, home of the Mayflower II, you’ll find “Should I Stay or Should I Go?,” an interactive exhibit that challenges kids and adults alike to play the role of a Pilgrim journeying across the Atlantic Ocean in 1620. You’ll be encouraged to think through the decisions the original colonists faced when considering whether to trek to a new land.

What can I do at Plimoth Patuxet Museums?

Experience the life of the pilgrims and indigenous Wampanoag people at this lifelike representation of the 17th-century Plymouth colony. Try a hands-on workshop learning Wampanoag pottery, 17th-century music and dance, practice in children’s chores of the period, or learn the alphabet in use at the time.

Why is the Plimoth Plantation renamed?

To highlight the indigenous people who were already on the land when the Plymouth settlers landed, the name was changed from the Plimoth Plantation to the Plimoth Patuxet Museum. Visitors see how life was for both the new settlers and old inhabitants at the museum and other attractions onsite.

How long should you spend at Plimoth Plantation?

Visitors generally spend around 2.5 hours at the plantation, but it’s up to you. Add a visit to the Mayflower II or the Plimoth Grist Mill, and add more time. Also, plan to speak with local staff acting in character and stop at the gift shop.

Is Plimoth Plantation worth it?

Yes, a visit to Plimoth Plantation is worth it for the educational experience. Visitors learn not only about the Mayflower and pilgrims who came to the United States from Europe but also about the indigenous people who occupied the land before, the Patuxet. Plus, the staff acting in character is a treat.

How much does it cost to visit Plimoth Plantation?

There are different ticket options, depending on which attractions you’re interested in. You can visit only the Plimoth Patuxet Museum, which ranges from approximately US$20 to US$35, or you can add the Mayflower II, Plimoth Grist Mill, or make other combos for various prices. Members get free admission.

When is the best time to visit Plimoth Plantation?

Visit Plimoth Plantation all year round to see the different activities the 17th-century residents engaged in at various times of the year. Note that Boston has cold and usually snowy winters and warmer but more humid summers, so plan accordingly. Special programs run around Thanksgiving time, too.

Ways to explore

The Plimoth Patuxet Museums is spread out among five separate sites: the Historic Patuxet Homesite, the 17th-Century English Village, Craft Center, Mayflower II, and the Plimoth Grist Mill. The homesite, village, and Craft Center together comprise the main exhibit, Plimoth Patuxet, which you can visit independently of the rest of the exhibits. Plan to spend a minimum of three hours exploring just Plimoth Patuxet.

The Mayflower II and the grist mill also charge separate admission fees, though combination passes are available if you want to see multiple exhibits; these are good for two days.

Accessibility

Many of the period buildings and structures are accessible, but rough dirt paths may pose a challenge. There is a free golf cart service between sites.

Age limits

Docent talks and activities are geared toward families with kids, elementary school age and above. The online parents’ guide provides tips and activities for visiting families.

What to pack

Camera, hat, water bottle, sunscreen

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers

Not allowed

Don’t be shy: Visitors are encouraged to interact with the interpreters and docents in both the 17th-Century English Village and the Historic Patuxet Homesite.

Amenities

Visitor center, café, restrooms

Address 

Plimoth Patuxet Museums is about 45 minutes south of Boston along the coast. It's easiest to reach by car, but you can also take buses from downtown Boston and Plymouth, or use a taxi or rideshare.

Driving

From Boston, take I-93 South to Route 3 South. Take the Plimoth Patuxet Highway exit off Route 3. Continue on Plimoth Patuxet Highway for 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) and take the exit for the museum. Free parking is available on-site.

Public transportation

From downtown Boston, take the Plymouth & Brockton bus (Boston/Logan Airport to Hyannis/South Shore route) to Plymouth Park & Ride (Exit 5). Pick up the local GATRA Mayflower Link bus to Clements’ Market, which stops steps from the entrance.

Best times to visit

From May to June and October to November, school groups frequently visit in the morning; if you visit during these months, plan to start later in the afternoon.

Best days to visit

This popular destination for school groups is busiest from Monday to Friday, while weekends are more focused on individual and family visits.

Best months to visit

Plimoth Patuxet Museums is open from mid-March through November. The attraction tends to be more crowded in the summer and fall; spring is ideal if you want to avoid the crowds.

Special events

Events and demonstrations from cooking lessons to craft workshops are regularly scheduled at Plimoth Patuxet Museums. Check the official website for an updated calendar.