Pilgrim Memorial State Park: A Journey Through History and Nature
Discover the historical significance and natural beauty of Pilgrim Memorial State Park in Plymouth, Massachusetts, home of the famous Plymouth Rock.
Experience the beauty and significance of Pilgrim Memorial State Park in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where history and nature intertwine. This iconic location offers a stunning view of Plymouth Harbor and is home to the famous Plymouth Rock, a symbol of the Pilgrims' arrival in America. With scenic walking trails, educational exhibits, and breathtaking waterfront views, it is a must-visit for every tourist seeking to immerse themselves in the rich history and natural beauty of the area.
A brief summary to Pilgrim Memorial State Park
- 79 Water St, Plymouth, Plymouth, Massachusetts, 02360, US
- +1508-747-5360
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Don't forget to bring your camera for stunning photos of Plymouth Harbor.
- Check for any special events or guided tours happening during your visit for a richer experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will want to explore the walking trails thoroughly.
- Consider a picnic lunch to fully enjoy the scenic views and serene environment.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're in downtown New Bedford, walk towards the waterfront. Head east on Union Street until you reach the intersection with Water Street. Turn left onto Water Street and continue walking straight. Follow Water Street as it curves and leads you out of New Bedford towards Plymouth. The Pilgrim Memorial State Park is located at 79 Water St, Plymouth, MA 02360, approximately 14 miles away, so it will be a lengthy walk.
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Public Transit
From New Bedford, head to the nearest bus stop and take the GATRA bus towards Plymouth. Make sure to check the schedule as buses may not run frequently. The bus will take you directly to Plymouth, and you should get off at the stop nearest to the waterfront. Once you arrive in Plymouth, walk towards Water Street; Pilgrim Memorial State Park will be located at 79 Water St, just a short walk from downtown.
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Bicycle Rental
If you're up for a biking adventure, rent a bike in New Bedford. Head east along the waterfront on the bike path. This scenic route will take you through parts of the city and lead you towards Plymouth. Keep following the bike paths and look for the signs directing you to Plymouth. It’s roughly a 14-mile ride, so ensure you have water and take breaks as needed.
Discover more about Pilgrim Memorial State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Samuel Lucius-Thomas Howland House
0.1 km
Explore the Samuel Lucius-Thomas Howland House in Plymouth, MA, a historical landmark rich in colonial architecture and American heritage.
Plymouth Village Historic District
0.2 km
Explore the historic charm of Plymouth Village Historic District, where America’s past comes alive through stunning architecture and significant landmarks.
See Plymouth Massachusetts
0.3 km
Explore the historic town of Plymouth, MA, where America's story began, with stunning views and rich cultural heritage waiting to be discovered.
Plymouth Immigrant Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the Plymouth Immigrant Memorial, a powerful tribute to the diverse immigrant heritage that shaped America’s history in the heart of Massachusetts.
Site of the Original Settlement
0.3 km
Discover the rich history of the Pilgrims at the Site of the Original Settlement, a tranquil park in Plymouth, Massachusetts, perfect for exploration and reflection.
Site of the John Alden’s Plymouth House
0.4 km
Explore the historical significance of John Alden's Plymouth House, a cherished landmark that embodies the spirit of early American settlers.
First Parish in Plymouth
0.5 km
Discover the historical First Parish in Plymouth, Massachusetts, a Unitarian Universalist church rich in history and community spirit.
Richard Sparrow House Inc
0.6 km
Discover the captivating history of colonial America at the Richard Sparrow House, a charming museum in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
Plimoth Grist Mill
0.6 km
Discover the rich history of early America at Plimoth Grist Mill, a charming museum and working mill that showcases colonial life and craftsmanship.
Harlow Old Fort House (1677)
0.9 km
Explore the Harlow Old Fort House, a 1677 historical museum in Plymouth, MA, where colonial history comes to life in a charming setting.
National Monument to the Forefathers
1.1 km
Explore the National Monument to the Forefathers, a historic landmark in Plymouth, MA, celebrating the values of freedom and perseverance of the Pilgrims.
Holmes Reservation
1.7 km
Explore the natural beauty of Holmes Reservation in Plymouth, MA, a tranquil haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Duxbury Pier Light
3.4 km
Explore Duxbury Pier Light, a historic lighthouse in Plymouth, MA, where maritime history meets stunning coastal scenery for an unforgettable experience.
Household of William Brewster
3.7 km
Discover the rich history of the Pilgrims at the Household of William Brewster, a captivating museum in Plymouth, Massachusetts, dedicated to early American life.
Plimoth Patuxet Museums
3.8 km
Explore the rich tapestry of early American history at Plimoth Patuxet Museums, where the stories of the Pilgrims and Wampanoag come to life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mayflower II
0.1 km
Explore the Mayflower II, a remarkable replica of the historic ship that brought the Pilgrims to America, in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
Plymouth Rock
0.1 km
Experience the rich history of Plymouth Rock, a landmark symbolizing the Pilgrims' arrival in America, located in beautiful Plymouth, Massachusetts.
Massasoit Statue
0.1 km
Explore the Massasoit Statue in Plymouth, a tribute to Native American heritage and a key historical landmark in the heart of Massachusetts.
Witches
0.2 km
Unearth the captivating tales of witchcraft in Plymouth, a historical journey through the trials that shaped a nation.
Dead of night ghost tours
0.2 km
Discover the eerie tales of Plymouth's past with Dead of Night Ghost Tours, where history and haunting legends intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Coles Hill Burial Ground
0.2 km
Explore Coles Hill Burial Ground in Plymouth, MA, a serene historic cemetery honoring early Pilgrims, perfect for history lovers and peaceful reflection.
William Bradford Statue
0.2 km
Explore Plymouth’s rich history through the William Bradford Statue, a tribute to the Pilgrim leader and a must-see attraction in the cultural district.
Mayflower Society House
0.2 km
Experience the Pilgrim legacy at the Mayflower Society House in Plymouth, a historical landmark showcasing America's rich heritage.
Spooner House
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Discover the Spooner House Museum in Plymouth, MA - an authentic glimpse into 18th-century colonial life and history.
Plymouth Center for the Arts
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant artistic community at the Plymouth Center for the Arts, where creativity and local culture converge in a stunning setting.
Plymouth Lantern Tours
0.3 km
Explore Plymouth's rich history with Plymouth Lantern Tours, where captivating storytelling brings the past to life under the glow of lanterns.
Plymouth Night Tour
0.3 km
Explore Plymouth's haunted history with the Plymouth Night Tour, where ghostly tales and local legends come alive in a captivating experience.
Plymouth Bay Winery
0.3 km
Experience the delightful flavors of handcrafted wines at Plymouth Bay Winery, a serene escape in the heart of Plymouth, Massachusetts.
Brewster Gardens
0.4 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of Brewster Gardens in Plymouth, a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Pilgrim Food Tours
0.4 km
Discover Plymouth’s culinary history with Pilgrim Food Tours, where every bite tells a story and flavors come alive in the heart of New England.
Essential places to dine
Speedwell Tavern
0.3 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Speedwell Tavern in Plymouth - where delicious food meets local charm.
Surfside Smokehouse
0.3 km
Discover Surfside Smokehouse in Plymouth - where delicious barbecue meets fresh seafood in a cozy dining atmosphere.
Cork + Table Kitchen and Bar
0.3 km
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71 West Atlantic Steakhouse
0.3 km
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Proof 22
0.4 km
Experience Southern comfort food and vibrant cocktails at Proof 22 in Plymouth's Cultural District – where every meal is a celebration.
Cafe Strega
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Cafe Strega in Plymouth—where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Mamma Mia's Restaurants
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Mamma Mia's Restaurants in Plymouth Bay—where every meal tells a story.
The Tasty
0.4 km
Experience culinary creativity at The Tasty in Plymouth’s Cultural District with fresh ingredients and innovative cocktails.
Mallebar Brasserie
0.4 km
Discover exquisite modern French cuisine at Mallebar Brasserie in Plymouth's Cultural District, where every dish tells a story.
The Artisan Pig
0.5 km
Experience artisanal pizza like never before at The Artisan Pig in Plymouth—where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Tavern On The Wharf
0.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine with stunning waterfront views at Tavern On The Wharf in Plymouth - a perfect family-friendly destination.
The Shanty Rose
0.5 km
Experience delightful dining at The Shanty Rose in Plymouth - where local flavors meet cozy ambiance.
Dillon's Local
0.5 km
Discover Dillon's Local in Plymouth for authentic American cuisine served with warmth and charm amidst a lively cultural backdrop.
Anna's Harborside Grille
0.5 km
Experience authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with stunning waterfront views at Anna's Harborside Grille in Plymouth.
The CabbyShack
0.6 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at The CabbyShack in Plymouth's scenic waterfront setting - a perfect blend of flavor and atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mayflower II Gift Shop
0.0 km
Explore the Mayflower II Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and a taste of Plymouth's rich maritime history.
John Alden Gift Shop Inc
0.1 km
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Pilgrims Corner
0.1 km
Discover Pilgrims Corner in Plymouth, MA - the charming clothing store that celebrates local culture and style.
Common Sense Store
0.3 km
Explore the Common Sense Store in Plymouth for healthy food, unique gifts, and a taste of local culture.
British Imports
0.3 km
Explore British Imports in Plymouth for unique British gifts, snacks, and a taste of culture in a charming gift shop experience.
Laughing Moon Boutique
0.3 km
Explore Laughing Moon Boutique, a gem in Plymouth's Cultural District, offering unique gifts and local treasures for every traveler.
Main Street Marketplace
0.3 km
Explore unique antiques and vintage treasures at Main Street Marketplace in Plymouth, MA, where history comes alive in every corner.
White Whale Antiques & Vintage Goods
0.3 km
Explore unique antiques and vintage treasures at White Whale Antiques & Vintage Goods, a gem in Plymouth’s cultural district.
Collections On Court
0.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of style and comfort at Collections On Court, Plymouth's premier destination for women's and men's fashion.
3 Daughters Jewelry
0.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted jewelry at 3 Daughters Jewelry, a charming store in Plymouth's cultural heart, reflecting local beauty and craftsmanship.
Something For Your Dust
0.4 km
Explore the eclectic charm of Something For Your Dust, a unique furniture store in Plymouth, MA, perfect for finding vintage treasures and local decor.
Sprezzatura Boutique
0.4 km
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Tales of the Sea Emporium
0.5 km
Explore the maritime charm of Plymouth at Tales of the Sea Emporium, your go-to gift shop for unique coastal treasures and local artistry.
The Cranberry house
0.5 km
Explore the charm of Plymouth with unique cranberry-themed souvenirs and local crafts at The Cranberry House - a must-visit store for every tourist.
P&B Gift Shop
0.6 km
Explore P&B Gift Shop in Plymouth, MA for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit to this historic coastal town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pillory Pub
0.1 km
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British Beer Company
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Main Street Sports Bar and Grill
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The New World Tavern
0.3 km
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Brewster Bar
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Uva Wine Bar
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Uva Wine Bar in Plymouth, where fine wines meet exquisite small plates in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
San Diegorestaurante
0.4 km
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Honey Baby
0.4 km
Discover Honey Baby, Plymouth's top cocktail bar and American restaurant, where innovative drinks meet delicious cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Martini's Bar & Grill
0.4 km
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The Galway Pub
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Plymouth at The Galway Pub, a local favorite for great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
Gillis Family Tavern
0.6 km
Enjoy a vibrant dining experience at Gillis Family Tavern in Plymouth, where delicious food meets the excitement of sports in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Sip at 1620 Wine Bar
0.7 km
Experience the essence of Plymouth with exquisite wines and delightful tapas at 1620 Wine Bar, a true gem in the Bay Cultural District.
JoeK Music Piano Bar at Toscana's Plymouth
0.7 km
Discover the perfect blend of Italian cuisine and live piano music at JoeK Music Piano Bar in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
3A Bar And Grill
2.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of pub and restaurant at 3A Bar And Grill, Plymouth's go-to spot for delicious food and vibrant atmosphere.
Marshfield
2.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Marshfield, a must-visit bar in Plymouth, Massachusetts, offering a delightful selection of local drinks and great ambiance.